The Optimized Women

Trailer: Unlocking Your Full Potential

In this debut episode of The Optimized Women podcast, host Orshi McNaughton, functional nutritionist, introduces her mission to empower women through cutting-edge wellness strategies. This podcast is dedicated to helping women unlock their full potential by focusing on holistic health and peak performance, tailored specifically for women.

What to Expect:

Orshi kicks off the series by sharing her journey and passion for holistic wellness. She draws from her experience hosting the Women's Biohacking Conference, where top experts in medicine, fitness, nutrition, and more have gathered to discuss the latest and most effective strategies for optimizing women's health.

[1:06] Biohacking vs. Traditional Healthcare - Dr. Molly Maloof, MD

Dr. Molly Maloof discusses how traditional healthcare focuses on treating the very sick, whereas biohacking aims to optimize health before disease manifests. She explains the importance of using data to drive health decisions and the benefits of biohacking for disease prevention.

[5:13] Fasting, Hormones, and Women’s Health - Melanie Avalon

Melanie Avalon shares insights on how fasting can influence women’s hormones and overall health. She emphasizes the need to tailor fasting practices to individual health goals and metabolic needs, particularly for women.

[8:21] The Importance of Dietary Flexibility - Dr. Anna Cabeca, OBGYN

Dr. Anna Cabeca talks about finding foods that nourish the body without causing inflammation and highlights the importance of flexibility in diet. She explains how practices like feasting and fasting contribute to mental clarity, longevity, and overall wellness.

[10:14] Muscle Health and Its Impact on Overall Wellness - Dr. Gabrielle Lyon, MD

Dr. Gabrielle Lyon delves into muscle-centric medicine, explaining how muscle acts as an endocrine organ and its crucial role in maintaining health. She discusses how proper diet and training can optimize muscle function, thereby improving metabolic health and preventing disease.

[12:34] Conclusion and Invitation to Subscribe - Orshi McNaughton

 

🌐 LET'S CONNECT 🌐

Host: Orshi McNaughton
Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/optimizedwomen
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@optimizedwomen
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/optimizedwomen

Subscribe today and take the first step towards becoming the best version of yourself. Your journey starts here!

Ep. 2: Biohacking Metabolism & Hormones for Women | Dr. Molly Maloof, MD

Struggling with weight loss, hormone imbalances, or managing stress? Learn how to biohack your metabolism and improve your hormone health with expert insights from Dr. Molly Maloof. In this episode, Dr. Maloof shares actionable strategies for optimizing metabolic health, managing stress, and using blood sugar monitoring to enhance women’s overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with weight loss resistance, chronic stress, or perimenopause, this episode is packed with valuable biohacking advice tailored specifically for women.

 

👇 FREE GLP-1 MINI COURSE 👇

Instant access to my training on weight-loss peptides—discover top strategies for body recomposition, optimal dosing, and hormone balancing to safely reach your goals! 🚀 https://www.optimizedwomen.com/courses/glp-1 

 

🔑 KEY TOPICS 🔑

-How stress and cortisol levels impact weight loss resistance and lead to insulin resistance in women.

-Why women need a gentler approach to biohacking compared to men, and how hormonal fluctuations play a role.

-The importance of a whole-food diet before experimenting with biohacks like fasting and ketosis.

-The role of weight loss peptides like semaglutide (Ozempic) and their potential benefits and risks.

-How weight training and activating large muscle groups can dramatically improve metabolic health and regulate blood sugar.

-The effects of menopause on insulin resistance and how hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help.

-Insights into using continuous glucose monitors (CGM) and future advancements in wearable health tech.

 

🕐 TIMESTAMPS 🕐

[00:00] Welcome & Introduction

[02:32] Stress, Cortisol, and Weight Loss Resistance

[04:00] Biohacking Tailored for Women

[05:32] Nutrition First: The Importance of Whole Foods

[06:37] Orshi’s Personal Experience with Fasting & Stress

[07:10] Weight Loss Peptides & Insulin Resistance

[09:40] Cortisol, Stress, and Weight Gain

[11:46] Stress, Hormones, and Metabolic Adaptation

[14:32] Women’s Hormones, Insulin Resistance & Menopause

[17:10] Weight Training for Metabolic Health

[19:37] Optimizing Protein Intake for Fitness Gains

[23:23] Monitoring Blood Sugar & Metabolic Flexibility

[32:16] Continuous Glucose Monitors (CGM) & Wearable Tech

[38:35] The Future of Monitoring Metabolic Health

[41:17] How to Measure & Manage Stress

[47:03] Recovery & Adaptogens for Stress Management

[50:00] Emotional Health, Social Connection & Longevity

[53:10] GLP-1 Weight-loss Peptide Mini Course Information

 

👇 FREE GLP-1 MINI COURSE 👇

Instant access to my training on weight-loss peptides—discover top strategies for body recomposition, optimal dosing, and hormone balancing to safely reach your goals! 🚀 https://www.optimizedwomen.com/courses/glp-1 

 

 🎙️GUEST 🎙️

Guest: Dr. Molly Maloof, MD

Website: https://drmolly.co

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmolly.co

Dr. Molly’s Book: The Spark Factor: https://drmolly.co/the-spark-factor-dr-molly-maloof/

 

🌐 LET'S CONNECT 🌐

Host: Orshi McNaughton

Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/optimizedwomen

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@optimizedwomen

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/optimizedwomen

 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Enjoying the podcast? 

Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to help spread the word!

 

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized health guidance.

Ep. 3: Mastering Mineral Balance for Peak Performance I Lisa Pitel-Killah

Struggling with chronic fatigue, hormonal imbalances, or finding the right balance for peak performance? Join Lisa Pitel-Killah, world champion kettlebell athlete and expert in Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA), as we explore the transformative power of mineral balancing. Lisa shares her personal journey from burnout to becoming a world champion, revealing how mineral optimization impacts energy, resilience, and longevity. Discover how HTMA testing can uncover hidden imbalances and guide personalized health strategies to unlock your full potential.

👇 FREE GLP-1 MINI COURSE 👇

Instant access to my training on weight-loss peptides—discover top strategies for body recomposition, optimal dosing, and hormone balancing to safely reach your goals! 🚀 https://www.optimizedwomen.com/courses/glp-1

🔑 KEY TOPICS 🔑

• How mineral imbalances affect energy, adrenal health, and hormones
• The unique insights HTMA testing provides beyond traditional bloodwork
• Key mineral patterns: Fast oxidizers, slow oxidizers, and four-lows
• The impact of copper toxicity and iron metabolism on hormone health
• Stress, potassium levels, and dietary strategies for peak performance
• The role of customized supplements in achieving health and longevity

🕐 TIMESTAMPS 🕐

[00:00] Welcome & Introduction
[01:01] Lisa’s Journey: From Burnout to World Champion
[04:46] What is HTMA and why it matters
[09:07] Mineral imbalances: The hidden causes of fatigue and hormone issues
[12:14] How stress impacts mineral levels and overall health
[15:21] Key mineral patterns and what they mean
[20:17] The importance of potassium and sodium for energy balance
[33:42] Personalized supplementation: Why generic multivitamins can fail
[45:38] Understanding copper toxicity and hormone balance
[52:11] How mineral balancing supports anti-aging and longevity
[59:38] Lisa’s work with practitioners and custom supplement solutions

 

👇 FREE GLP-1 MINI COURSE 👇

Instant access to my training on weight-loss peptides—discover top strategies for body recomposition, optimal dosing, and hormone balancing to safely reach your goals! 🚀 https://www.optimizedwomen.com/courses/glp-1

🎙️ GUEST 🎙️

Lisa Pitel-Killah, FDN-P

Website: http://lisapitelkillah.com

Instagram: http://instagram.com/lisapitelkillah

 

🌐 LET'S CONNECT 🌐

Host: Orshi McNaughton

Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/optimizedwomen

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@optimizedwomen

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/optimizedwomen

 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Enjoying the podcast? Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to help spread the word!

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized health guidance. 

Ep. 4: The Truth About Hormones & Menopause | Kristin Johnson & Maria Claps

Struggling with hormone imbalances, fatigue, or navigating menopause? Join Kristin Johnson and Maria Claps, co-authors of The Great Menopause Myth, as they uncover the realities of perimenopause and menopause. In this episode, we explore how hormonal shifts impact cognitive health, thyroid function, and adrenal balance—and why conventional approaches often fall short. Learn how to take control of your health with personalized strategies and actionable insights that every woman needs to hear.

👇 FREE GLP-1 MINI COURSE 👇
Instant access to my training on weight-loss peptides—discover top strategies for body recomposition, optimal dosing, and hormone balancing to safely reach your goals! 🚀 https://www.optimizedwomen.com/courses/glp-1

🔑 KEY TOPICS 🔑

• How perimenopause impacts hormones, cognition, and overall health
• The critical connection between thyroid and hormone health during menopause
• Why lifestyle interventions alone aren’t enough for hormone replacement therapy
• How to approach HRT options: What’s right for you?
• Supporting adrenal health and managing stress during midlife
  
  

🕐 TIMESTAMPS 🕐
[00:00] Introduction to Hormone Health
[01:41] Meet Kristin Johnson and Maria Claps
[07:44] Misconceptions about menopause and aging
[09:50] The role of hormones in midlife health declines
[15:43] How perimenopause impacts every system in the body
[19:29] Thyroid health and the menopause connection
[24:42] Adrenal health and managing stress during menopause
[32:35] The nuances of HRT: Individualized approaches
[45:13] Misconceptions about hormone deficiency and cancer risk
[55:14] Gut health and hormone replacement therapy
[57:27] Optimizing life beyond midlife

🎙️ GUESTS 🎙️
Kristin Johnson and Maria Claps
Website: http://wiseandwell.me
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wise_and_well_/

 

🌐 LET'S CONNECT 🌐

Host: Orshi McNaughton

Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/optimizedwomen

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@optimizedwomen

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/optimizedwomen

👇 FREE GLP-1 MINI COURSE 👇

Instant access to my training on weight-loss peptides—discover top strategies for body recomposition, optimal dosing, and hormone balancing to safely reach your goals! 🚀 https://www.optimizedwomen.com/courses/glp-1

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Enjoying the podcast?
Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to help spread the word!

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized health guidance.

Ep. 5: Reversing Thyroid Symptoms | Ryan Monahan

Struggling with persistent fatigue, weight gain, or brain fog? Join Ryan Monahan, a functional diagnostic nutrition practitioner, as we uncover the truths behind thyroid health, hypothyroidism, and Hashimoto's. In this episode, Ryan shares his journey from misdiagnosis to healing and offers insights into recognizing symptoms, understanding triggers, and taking proactive steps toward optimizing your thyroid health. This is a must-listen for anyone navigating thyroid challenges and seeking actionable solutions.

👇 FREE GLP-1 MINI COURSE 👇
Instant access to my training on weight-loss peptides—discover top strategies for body recomposition, optimal dosing, and hormone balancing to safely reach your goals!
🚀 http://www.optimizedwomen.com/courses/glp-1

🔑 KEY TOPICS 🔑

• Why Hashimoto’s often goes undiagnosed and how to spot the red flags
• The role of inflammation in thyroid dysfunction
• How stress and cortisol levels impact thyroid health and autoimmunity
• The connection between leaky gut, food sensitivities, and Hashimoto’s
• Essential lab tests to diagnose and manage thyroid conditions effectively

🕐 TIMESTAMPS 🕐
[00:00] Introduction to Thyroid Health
[01:31] Meet Ryan Monahan
[02:46] Ryan’s Journey: Misdiagnosis to Healing
[06:32] Why Hashimoto’s is Underdiagnosed
[09:20] Limitations of Standard Thyroid Testing
[15:00] Why Medications Alone May Not Be Enough
[17:44] Gluten and Food Sensitivities in Autoimmunity
[25:58] Understanding Leaky Gut and Its Role in Autoimmunity
[32:01] Stress, Cortisol, and Thyroid Health
[42:46] Comprehensive Thyroid Testing: What to Ask For
[55:37] Lab Tests and Natural Healing Strategies
[58:22] Building a Resilient Lifestyle for Thyroid Health

🎙️ GUEST 🎙️
Ryan Monahan
Website: http://www.themindfulnutrivore.com
Instagram: http://instagram.com/themindfulnutrivore
Facebook: http://facebook.com/themindfulnutrivore

🌐 LET'S CONNECT 🌐
Host: Orshi McNaughton
Website: http://precisioncellularnutrition.com
YouTube Channel: http://youtube.com/@optimizedwomen
Instagram: http://instagram.com/optimizedwomen

👇 FREE GLP-1 MINI COURSE 👇
Instant access to my training on weight-loss peptides—discover top strategies for body recomposition, optimal dosing, and hormone balancing to safely reach your goals!
🚀 https://www.optimizedwomen.com/courses/glp-1

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Enjoying the podcast?
Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to help spread the word!

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized health guidance.

Ep. 6: Biohacking Stress | Dr. Jay Wiles

Struggling to manage stress or improve your resilience? In this episode, clinical health psychologist and HRV expert Dr. Jay Wiles breaks down the science behind heart rate variability (HRV) and its connection to your nervous system, stress response, and overall health. We explore how biofeedback can help you build stress resilience, how HRV metrics are often misunderstood, and why context is crucial when interpreting your HRV data. Learn how to train your nervous system, embrace stress for growth, and find balance in your busy life with actionable tips you can implement today.

 

👇 FREE GLP-1 MINI COURSE 👇
Instant access to my training on weight-loss peptides—discover top strategies for body recomposition, optimal dosing, and hormone balancing to safely reach your goals! Get started: https://www.optimizedwomen.com/courses/glp-1

🔑 KEY TOPICS 🔑

• The basics of heart rate variability (HRV) and why it matters for stress management.
• Common myths about HRV and why your number may not mean what you think.
• The role of biofeedback in nervous system training and resilience building.
• How genetics, lifestyle, and gender impact HRV scores.
• Practical steps for using HRV data to optimize your performance and well-being.
• How to avoid common mistakes when interpreting wearable data.
  
  

🕐 TIMESTAMPS 🕐
[00:00] Introduction & Overview of HRV
[02:20] What Is HRV and Why It Matters
[04:30] Common HRV Myths Debunked
[08:45] How Biofeedback Can Train Your Nervous System
[14:00] Understanding HRV Trends vs. Single Data Points
[18:00] The Impact of Genetics & Lifestyle on HRV
[21:40] Practical Tips for Improving HRV
[27:00] How HRV Reflects Emotional and Mental Health
[31:12] Dr. Jay Wiles’ Insights on Therapy & Technology
[38:23] The Power of Biofeedback for Performance and Longevity
[43:15] The Importance of Emotional Regulation
[47:05] How to Embrace Stress and Build Resilience

 

🎙️ GUEST 🎙️
Guest: Dr. Jay Wiles
Website: https://hanuhealth.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjaywiles

 

🌐 LET'S CONNECT 🌐
Host: Orshi McNaughton

Co-Host: Katie Moore
Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/optimizedwomen
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@optimizedwomen
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/optimizedwomen

 

👇 FREE GLP-1 MINI COURSE 👇
Instant access to my training on weight-loss peptides—discover top strategies for body recomposition, optimal dosing, and hormone balancing to safely reach your goals! https://www.optimizedwomen.com/courses/glp-1

 

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Enjoying the podcast?
Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to help spread the word!

This podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized health guidance.

Ep. 7: GLP-1 Peptides & Body Recomposition | Nat Niddam

Struggling to lose weight despite a healthy lifestyle? In this episode, holistic nutritionist Nat Niddam joins us to uncover the science and strategy behind GLP-1 weight-loss peptides. We explore their transformative potential—not just for weight loss, but for enhancing insulin sensitivity, reducing inflammation, and curbing emotional eating. Nat shares expert tips for avoiding muscle loss, navigating metabolic plateaus, and using GLP-1s as part of a holistic health plan. Whether you're navigating menopause, managing PCOS, or looking for sustainable weight loss solutions, this conversation is packed with essential advice for achieving your optimal body composition.

 

👇 FREE GLP-1 MINI COURSE 👇
Access my training on weight-loss peptides—learn top strategies for body recomposition, optimal dosing, and hormone balancing to safely reach your goals! 🚀 https://www.optimizedwomen.com/courses/glp-1

🔑 KEY TOPICS 🔑

• The role of GLP-1 peptides in managing weight loss resistance and enhancing insulin sensitivity.
• Why muscle loss is a concern when using GLP-1s—and how to prevent it with nutrition and resistance training.
• The importance of a holistic approach: addressing hormone imbalances, gut health, and nutrient deficiencies.
• Practical ways to reset your body’s weight set point and achieve long-lasting results.
• Complementary peptides and supplements to support your body during GLP-1 use.
• Strategies for managing common side effects like constipation and reflux.

 

🕐 TIMESTAMPS 🕐

[00:00] Introduction & Overview of GLP-1s for Weight Loss
[02:51] Nat Niddam’s Approach to Holistic Nutrition & Peptide Therapy
[05:00] Common Mistakes When Using GLP-1s
[08:55] Why Testing Is Crucial Before Starting Peptides
[12:30] The Importance of Protein Intake for Preserving Muscle
[15:45] Resistance Training & Preventing Sarcopenia
[19:25] How GLP-1s Impact Appetite and Food Cravings
[21:40] Addressing Common Side Effects: Reflux and Constipation
[24:24] Supporting the Liver, Thyroid, and Adrenals During Peptide Use
[28:29] Nat’s Personal GLP-1 Journey and Lessons Learned
[36:00] Overcoming Metabolic Plateaus
[38:40] Complementary Peptides: BPC-157, CJC-1295, and More
[43:10] Next-Generation Weight Loss Peptides and Future Innovations
[48:30] The Role of Digestive Health in Weight Loss Success
[52:27] Measuring Progress Beyond the Scale: Body Composition Insights
[54:09] Nat’s Top Three Tips for Living an Optimized Life

 

🎙️ GUEST 🎙️
Guest: Nat Niddam
Website: https://www.natniddam.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathalieniddam

 

🌐 LET'S CONNECT 🌐

Host: Orshi McNaughton
Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/optimizedwomen
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@optimizedwomen
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/optimizedwomen

 

👇 FREE GLP-1 MINI COURSE 👇
Access my training on weight-loss peptides—learn top strategies for body recomposition, optimal dosing, and hormone balancing to safely reach your goals! 🚀 https://www.optimizedwomen.com/courses/glp-1

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Enjoying the podcast?
Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to help spread the word!

Ep. 8: The Burnout Cure: Biohacking for Stress Resilience

Discover the ultimate burnout cure in this episode, where we dive into biohacking strategies for stress resilience and health optimization. Learn how to overcome chronic stress, rebuild your energy, and unlock your body’s potential for healing. We explore the transformative benefits of contrast therapy, breathwork, and personalized nutrition, while sharing practical self-care habits tailored specifically to women’s unique physiology. If you’re ready to enhance your stress resilience, improve your health span, and thrive as a high-achieving woman, this conversation is your roadmap to success.

👇 FREE GLP-1 MINI COURSE 👇
Instant access to my training on weight-loss peptides—discover top strategies for body recomposition, optimal dosing, and hormone balancing to safely reach your goals! 🚀 https://www.optimizedwomen.com/courses/glp-1 🚀

🔑 KEY TOPICS 🔑
-Jessy's personal journey: from Lyme disease to severe burnout
-The concept of the “stress bucket” and building stress resiliency
-The role of contrast therapy, red light therapy, and breathwork in managing stress
-Personalized nutrition and functional testing for health optimization
-Strategies for integrating self-care into high-performance lifestyles
-The unique challenges women face in managing stress and burnout

🕐 TIMESTAMPS 🕐
[00:00] Jessy's story: collapsing at work and the start of her health journey
[03:24] Diagnosing and overcoming Lyme disease
[07:45] Understanding the stress bucket and its role in burnout
[12:53] Severe burnout and the turning point for health transformation
[17:13] Tools for stress management: binaural beats, red light therapy, and cold plunging
[20:35] Building a resilient morning routine and grounding practices
[27:05] Sleep optimization strategies and the importance of trackers
[38:08] Nutrition tips: meal prepping, intentional eating, and family habits
[53:12] Cold therapy for women: benefits and considerations
[53:51] Jessy's definition of living an optimized life

🎙️ GUEST 🎙️
Guest: Jessy Abed,  MHSc., MRT(T), IHP, RCHC 
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/integrativebiohacker
Website: https://www.niamahealthconsultancy.com/

🌐 LET'S CONNECT 🌐
Host: Orshi McNaughton
Podcast Links: https://linktr.ee/optimizedwomen
YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@optimizedwomen
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/optimizedwomen

👇 FREE GLP-1 MINI COURSE 👇
Instant access to my training on weight-loss peptides—discover top strategies for body recomposition, optimal dosing, and hormone balancing to safely reach your goals! 🚀 https://www.optimizedwomen.com/courses/glp-1 🚀

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Enjoying the podcast?
Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review to help spread the word!