Podcast
Hormones, Metabolism & You!
Hosted by Cassie Smith · EN
Your hormones control everything—from energy levels to weight, mood, and overall health. But understanding them shouldn’t feel like decoding a medical textbook. Welcome to Hormones, Metabolism & You!, the podcast where board-certified endocrinologist Dr. Cassie Smith breaks down the science behind your body’s most powerful regulators.
Each week, Dr. Smith tackles the real questions about metabolism, weight management, thyroid health, menopause, PCOS, insulin resistance, and more—giving you clear, actionable insights to take charge of your health. Whether you’re struggling with stubborn weight, feeling fatigued, or just want to optimize your well-being, this podcast is your go-to resource for evidence-based advice, practical tips, and expert interviews.
It’s time to understand your hormones, master your metabolism, and feel your best—because when your body is in balance, you thrive!
🎧 Subscribe now and start your journey to better health!
37episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
116: What Screen Time Is Really Doing to Your Eyes, Brain, and Stress Levels
1w ago00:57:40Tap to summarizeOne of the most overlooked aspects of health may be influencing how you think, learn, focus, perform, and even respond to stress every single day. In this episode, I sit down with neuro-optometrist Dr. Bryce Appelbaum to explore the difference between eyesight and vision, and why seeing 20/20 doesn't necessarily mean your visual system is functioning optimally. We discuss how the eyes and brain work together, the role vision plays in learning, reading, athletic performance, spatial awareness, and everyday confidence, and why many functional vision problems often go unrecognized. We also spend time talking about something that affects nearly all of us: screen time. Dr. Appelbaum explains what prolonged screen exposure is doing to our visual system, nervous system, sleep, stress response, and overall well-being. Topics We Cover in This Episode: How eyesight and vision are related, and why they're not the same thing The subtle signs that may point to an underlying functional vision problem Why screen fatigue may involve much more than tired eyes What vision has to do with focus, learning, reading, and information processing The connection between visual function, stress, and nervous system regulation Why some people struggle with motion sickness, bridges, tunnels, or spatial awareness How vision training differs from traditional eye care approaches Simple daily habits that may help support long-term visual health Whether you're a parent, athlete, professional, avid screen user, or simply interested in optimizing your health, this conversation offers a fascinating perspective on the connection between vision and whole-body wellness. Resources & Links 📚Get the Free Vision Health Guide: www.screenfit.com/5-proven-secrets-to-relieve-eye-strain 📝Free Vision Assessment: www.myvisionfirst.com/quiz 🫰🏻 $200 off ScreenFit™ using code DRCASSIE at screenfit.com/enroll 😎 10% off Digital Performance Lenses using code DRCASSIE at shop.myvisionfirst.com If you want to check out ScreenFit™ to see the exercises DrB talks about firsthand, you can log in with a backstage pass here. 📲 Follow Dr. Bryce Appelbaum Instagram: @drbryceappelbaum Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@drbryceappelbaum Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myvisionfirstoptometry Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-bryce-appelbaum/ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.bryceappelbaum Order Dr. Cassie’s Book ‘Fix Your Gut, Fix Your Hormones’: https://guthormonefix.com/ Use code LISTEN10 for 10 % off your order on shopmodernendocrine.com 📲 Follow Dr. Cassie Smith & Modern Endocrine 💻 Website: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernendocrine_/ 🌟 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ModernEndocrine 📽️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@modernendocrine 🕹️ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernendocrine?lang=en 📰 Newsletter: https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine ➡️ Disclaimer: https://www.modernendocrineokc.com/disclaimer-6353
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115: PCOS Has a New Name: Why It’s More Than an Ovarian Disorder
2w ago00:42:55Tap to summarizeIn this episode, I explain why PCOS is now better understood as Polyendocrine Metabolic Syndrome (PMOS). While the traditional name focuses on the ovaries, the reality is that this condition often extends far beyond reproductive health. I discuss why many women with PCOS don't actually have ovarian cysts, how the condition can affect everything from insulin and metabolism to cortisol, inflammation, gut health, and hormone balance, and why this updated framework may lead to more accurate diagnoses and more personalized care. I also walk through the different patterns I commonly see in clinical practice, including insulin-resistant, lean, inflammatory, adrenal, post-pill, postpartum, and mixed presentations. We explore why women are so often overlooked when they don't fit the typical PCOS profile, the lab markers that can provide a more complete picture of what's happening beneath the surface, and why understanding the root drivers of symptoms matters. Whether you're dealing with irregular cycles, fertility challenges, acne, weight changes, hair loss, fatigue, or simply feel like something isn't adding up, this episode offers a broader way to think about a condition that has long been oversimplified. Topics We Cover in This Episode: Why many experts believe the term PMOS better reflects the reality of this condition The key reasons PCOS has historically been misunderstood and underdiagnosed How insulin resistance can influence hormone symptoms long before blood sugar becomes abnormal Why women who are thin can still experience significant metabolic dysfunction The different patterns that can contribute to PMOS symptoms and why they matter How stress, cortisol, inflammation, and gut health may influence hormone balance Which lab markers can help uncover what is driving symptoms beneath the surface Why individualized treatment strategies often produce better outcomes than a one-size-fits-all approach If you found this conversation helpful, be sure to subscribe so you don't miss future episodes on hormones, metabolism, and whole-body health. Resources & Links: Order Dr. Cassie’s Book ‘Fix Your Gut, Fix Your Hormones’: https://guthormonefix.com/ Use code LISTEN10 for 10 % off your order on shopmodernendocrine.com 📲 Follow Dr. Cassie Smith & Modern Endocrine 💻 Website: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernendocrine_/ 🌟 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ModernEndocrine 📽️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@modernendocrine 🕹️ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernendocrine?lang=en 📰 Newsletter: https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine ➡️ Disclaimer: https://www.modernendocrineokc.com/disclaimer-6353
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114. Why Your Brain Feels Drained... and How to Reset It with Dr. Patrick Porter
3w ago01:06:50Tap to summarizeIn this episode, I sit down with Dr. Patrick Porter, founder of BrainTap and a longtime researcher in brain fitness and human performance, to explore why so many people today are struggling with brain fog, poor focus, low energy, and chronic stress. We discuss the relationship between the brain, gut, and nervous system, and how modern life may be affecting the way we think, feel, and function. Dr. Porter shares his perspective on brain fitness, why recovery is just as important as stress itself, and how simple daily habits can influence cognitive performance, mood, and resilience. We also talk about practical strategies listeners can start using right away, including breathing techniques, movement, sleep routines, and ways to support healthier energy patterns throughout the day. Topics We Cover in This Episode: What “brain fitness” actually means and how it differs from brain health Why so many people experience brain fog, memory lapses, and afternoon fatigue The connection between stress, the nervous system, and metabolic health How sleep quality influences hormones, recovery, and cognitive function Why the gut may play a larger role in brain function than many people realize Simple breathing techniques that can help regulate the nervous system throughout the day The reasoning behind delaying caffeine first thing in the morning How recovery practices may improve focus, energy, and resilience in a high-stress world If you’re struggling with stress, poor sleep, afternoon energy crashes, or simply want to better understand how your brain influences the rest of your health, this episode offers plenty of food for thought. Resources & Links 📸Connect with Dr. Patrick Porter on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drpatrickporter 📲 Follow Dr. Cassie Smith & Modern Endocrine 💻 Website: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernendocrine_/ 🌟 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ModernEndocrine 📽️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@modernendocrine 🕹️ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernendocrine?lang=en 📰 Newsletter: https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine ➡️ Disclaimer: https://www.modernendocrineokc.com/disclaimer-6353 Use code LISTEN10 for 10 % off your order on shopmodernendocrine.com
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113: Why Cholesterol Isn’t the Villain and Estrogen Isn’t the Enemy with Dr. Terri DeNeui
4w ago00:44:42Tap to summarizeFor years, cholesterol numbers have been treated as one of the primary indicators of heart health, but are we focusing on the right markers? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Terri DeNeui to discuss the bigger picture behind cardiovascular risk. We talk through the limitations of looking at LDL cholesterol in isolation, the importance of factors like inflammation, insulin resistance, ApoB, lipoprotein(a), calcium scores, and lifestyle habits, and why a more comprehensive assessment may be necessary before deciding on treatment options. We also discuss the role statins can play, who may benefit from them, and why individualized care matters when evaluating cardiovascular health. We also explore the connection between hormones and metabolic health. Dr. DeNeui explains how changes in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone can influence cholesterol, blood pressure, body composition, and overall wellbeing. Topics We Cover in This Episode: Why cholesterol numbers rarely tell the whole story The cardiovascular markers many people have never heard of What calcium scores can and cannot tell you How insulin resistance often shows up long before diabetes The relationship between menopause, hormones, and changing cholesterol levels Why gut health keeps showing up in conversations about chronic disease The role estrogen plays in men's health and performance Questions worth asking when evaluating your long-term cardiovascular risk Whether you're trying to better understand your own lab work, navigate conversations about statins, or learn more about the connection between hormones and overall health, this episode offers a thoughtful discussion on some of today's most debated topics in preventive medicine. Join us as we explore the factors that may matter most when it comes to supporting long-term health and making informed decisions about your care. Resources & Links 💻 Evexias Health Solutions: https://www.evexias.com/ 📲 Follow Dr. Cassie Smith & Modern Endocrine 💻 Website: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernendocrine_/ 🌟 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ModernEndocrine 📽️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@modernendocrine 🕹️ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernendocrine?lang=en 📰 Newsletter: https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine ➡️ Disclaimer: https://www.modernendocrineokc.com/disclaimer-6353 Use code LISTEN10 for 10 % off your order on shopmodernendocrine.com
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112: The Birth Control Conversation We Need to Have: Helpful Tool or Hidden Problem?
May 2400:25:54Tap to summarizeWhat if the birth control pill you’ve been told is safe for decades is affecting far more than just pregnancy prevention? In this episode, I sit down with OB-GYN Dr. Johnny Peet for a powerful and nuanced conversation about oral birth control, hormone health, and the risks many women are never fully informed about, especially as they enter their 40s and 50s. We unpack the real differences between oral contraceptives and progesterone-only IUDs, why birth control pills can impact testosterone, mood, sleep, thyroid function, and gut health, and why the conversation around women’s health needs to become far more individualized. We also dive into the difficult transition of perimenopause, why so many women feel dismissed or confused during this phase, and the important questions every woman should ask before staying on hormonal birth control long term. Topics We Cover in This Episode: Why birth control can affect far more than just fertility The hormone shift many women experience in their 30s and 40s What happens when SHBG levels become too high Why perimenopause can feel harder than menopause itself The connection between birth control, gut health, and thyroid function The birth control options Dr. Peet says he would avoid after 40 Why some women feel worse even when their hormone labs “look normal” These conversations matter because women deserve better education, better support, and better options when it comes to their health. Resources & Links Connect with Dr. Peet Website Instagram Facebook1 Facebook2 YouTube 📲 Follow Dr. Cassie Smith & Modern Endocrine 💻 Website: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernendocrine_/ 🌟 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ModernEndocrine 📽️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@modernendocrine 🕹️ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernendocrine?lang=en 📰 Newsletter: https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine ➡️ Disclaimer: https://www.modernendocrineokc.com/disclaimer-6353 Use code LISTEN10 for 10 % off your order on shopmodernendocrine.com
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111: Beyond the Labs: The Metabolic Clues Behind Fatigue, Weight Gain & Thyroid Issues
May 1700:38:53Tap to summarizeIn this conversation, I sit down with Dr. James LaValle to unpack the deeper metabolic patterns driving symptoms like fatigue, thyroid dysfunction, weight gain, hormone imbalances, brain fog, inflammation, and low energy. We dive into why the body cannot be viewed as isolated systems and how stress hormones, insulin, gut health, thyroid function, sex hormones, and inflammation are all deeply connected. Dr. LaValle shares how his Metabolic Code framework helps identify where people should actually begin when they feel overwhelmed by symptoms and conflicting health advice. We also have a great discussion about gut health as one of the biggest hidden drivers behind hormone dysfunction and metabolic chaos. We talk about GLP-1 medications, the right and wrong way to use peptides, why muscle mass matters more than most people realize, and how people can create real change without chasing quick fixes. Topics We Cover in This Episode: Why your thyroid symptoms may actually be connected to stress hormones and gut dysfunction The hidden metabolic patterns that can quietly drive weight gain, fatigue, and hormone imbalance How inflammation and cortisol can interfere with nearly every hormone in the body What most people are getting completely wrong about GLP-1 medications and muscle loss Be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and follow along so you never miss an episode. And if you are ready to take a more personalized, root cause approach to your own health, check out the resources in the show notes and learn more. Resources & Links 💻 Dr. James’ Website: https://www.jimlavalle.com/ 📲 Follow Dr. Cassie Smith & Modern Endocrine 💻 Website: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernendocrine_/ 🌟 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ModernEndocrine 📽️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@modernendocrine 🕹️ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernendocrine?lang=en 📰 Newsletter: https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine ➡️ Disclaimer: https://www.modernendocrineokc.com/disclaimer-6353 Use code LISTEN10 for 10 % off your order on shopmodernendocrine.com
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110: Is Your Thyroid the Missing Piece? Dr. Amie Hornaman on Energy, Metabolism & Real Answers
May 1000:46:14Tap to summarizeIn this episode, I sit down with Dr. Amie Hornaman, also known as the Thyroid Fixer, to unpack the real reasons so many people struggle with fatigue, weight gain, brain fog, and hormone imbalances without getting clear answers. We dive into her personal journey of being misdiagnosed multiple times, what finally led her to answers, and why so many patients today are still being overlooked in traditional medicine. Together, we discuss what is actually happening beneath the surface when it comes to thyroid function, including the critical difference between T4 and T3, the role of reverse T3, and why a one-size-fits-all approach to treatment often falls short. I also ask the questions so many of you are wondering like how to advocate for yourself with your doctor, what labs truly matter, and how to know if your current treatment is actually working. Topics We Cover in This Episode: Why “normal labs” might not mean optimal thyroid function The hidden reason some people never feel better on standard thyroid medication What your body may be doing instead of converting thyroid hormone properly The overlooked factors that could be sabotaging your energy and metabolism Why some people thrive on certain thyroid treatments while others don’t How stress, gut health, and nutrients quietly influence your thyroid What most doctors were never taught about thyroid optimization The signs your body is trying to tell you something deeper is off Resources & Links Dr. Amie’s Links Facebook: Amie Hornaman Nutrition and Functional Medicine YouTube: Dr. Amie Hornaman Instagram: @dramiehornaman Thyroid Optimization Guide: https://health.dramie.com/thyropause 7 Day Thyroid Healing Kickstarter: https://fixyourthyroid.com/7daykickstarter Thyroid on Trial: https://health.dramie.com/thyroid-on-trial-optin 📲 Follow Dr. Cassie Smith & Modern Endocrine 💻 Website: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernendocrine_/ 🌟 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ModernEndocrine 📽️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@modernendocrine 🕹️ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernendocrine?lang=en 📰 Newsletter: https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine ➡️ Disclaimer: https://www.modernendocrineokc.com/disclaimer-6353 Use code LISTEN10 for 10 % off your order on shopmodernendocrine.com
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109: Why Gut Health Changes Everything: Dr. Vincent Pedre on Healing from the Inside Out
May 300:46:39Tap to summarizeThis conversation completely changed the way I think about healing and I know it’s going to shift things for you too. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Vincent Pedre to unpack why so many people are stuck dealing with fatigue, hormone imbalances, inflammation, brain fog, and digestive issues and why the real answer almost always comes back to the gut. We dive into his personal health journey, how years of antibiotics and chronic illness led him to functional medicine, and the moment he realized that healing the gut is the foundation for healing the entire body. We go deep into the connections most people are missing, from how the gut impacts hormones, metabolism, and the immune system, to why healing today is far more complex than it used to be. I also ask the questions you’re probably wondering like why quick fixes aren’t working, what role stress and the nervous system play, and what actually needs to happen to create lasting change. We also talk about the “non sexy” foundations of healing like sleep, sunlight, nutrition, and daily habits, and why skipping those is often the very thing keeping you stuck. Topics We Cover in This Episode: Why gut health might be the missing link behind symptoms you wouldn’t expect The surprising reason healing feels harder now than it did years ago What most people get wrong about inflammation and hormone imbalance The hidden role your nervous system plays in your ability to heal Why doing everything “right” still doesn’t always lead to results The connection between your gut, stress, and long term disease risk A different way to think about weight loss, metabolism, and GLP-1 medications The foundational habits that matter more than any supplement or protocol Start paying attention to what your body has been trying to tell you and take that next step toward real healing. Whether that means diving deeper into your gut health, getting personalized support, or simply committing to the basics you’ve been overlooking, this is your reminder that change is possible when you address the root. Resources & Links Where to Find Dr. Pedre Online: 📸 Instagram: @drpedre 🌐 happygutlife.com – Supplements, Happy Gut Coffee, and the 28-Day Gut Reset Program 📖 TheGutSMARTProtocol.com – Dr. Pedre’s second book 🩺 pedremd.com – Pedre Integrative Health 📲 Follow Dr. Cassie Smith & Modern Endocrine 💻 Website: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernendocrine_/ 🌟 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ModernEndocrine 📽️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@modernendocrine 🕹️ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernendocrine?lang=en 📰 Newsletter: https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine ➡️ Disclaimer: https://www.modernendocrineokc.com/disclaimer-6353 Use code LISTEN10 for 10 % off your order on shopmodernendocrine.com
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108: Women, Weightlifting & Longevity: How to Build Muscle, Protect Hormones, and Age Well
Apr 2600:54:02Tap to summarizeIf you still think weightlifting is just about aesthetics, this conversation will completely change the way you see your body and your future. In this episode, I sit down with a highly experienced physician assistant and longtime strength training expert to unpack what women have been getting wrong about fitness for decades, especially in perimenopause and beyond. We dive into the real role of muscle when it comes to metabolism, hormones, and longevity, and tackle the questions so many women are quietly asking. Is cardio enough? Will lifting weights make me bulky? Is it too late to start? We break through the noise and get honest about what actually matters if you want to feel strong, energized, and in control of your health as you age. We also get incredibly practical, walking through what effective weight training actually looks like for real women with busy lives. From how often you really need to lift, to why more workouts are not always better, to the growing concerns around GLP-1 medications and muscle loss, this episode connects the dots between modern trends and long-term consequences. If you have ever felt overwhelmed, confused, or stuck in an endless cycle of doing more but seeing less progress, this conversation will give you clarity, direction, and a whole new perspective on what your body truly needs. Topics We Cover in This Episode: Why muscle might be the missing piece in your long-term health plan The surprising truth about cardio and why it may be holding you back What most women misunderstand about “toning” and body composition How little you actually need to do to start seeing real results The hidden risks behind popular weight loss medications What your future mobility, independence, and strength really depend on The mindset shift that changes everything when it comes to consistency Why doing more workouts could actually be working against you If this episode got you thinking differently about your health and your future, share it with a friend, subscribe so you never miss an episode, and take the next step toward building a stronger, more resilient body. Your future self will thank you. Resources & Links 📲 Connect with Danielle on Socials @danielle.kepics @unconventional.collaborative 📲 Follow Dr. Cassie Smith & Modern Endocrine 💻 Website: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernendocrine_/ 🌟 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ModernEndocrine 📽️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@modernendocrine 🕹️ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernendocrine?lang=en 📰 Newsletter: https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine ➡️ Disclaimer: https://www.modernendocrineokc.com/disclaimer-6353 Use code LISTEN10 for 10 % off your order on shopmodernendocrine.com
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107: Why Doing More to Heal Can Backfire | The Cell Danger Response with Dr. Eric Balcavage
Apr 1901:05:58Tap to summarizeIn this conversation, I sit down with Dr. Eric Balcavage to unpack what’s really happening beneath the surface when your body feels stuck, overwhelmed, and unable to heal. We dive into the concept of the cell danger response and why so many people today are living in a chronic state of stress at a cellular level without even realizing it. We also explore the gap between traditional and functional medicine, and why both approaches matter more than we think when used in the right context. Throughout this episode, we challenge the idea that more is always better when it comes to your health. From overloading on supplements to over-optimizing every part of your routine, we talk about how these well-intentioned habits can actually keep you stuck. I walk through real-life examples and ask the hard questions that help you determine whether your body is in a place to heal or simply trying to survive. If you’ve ever felt frustrated, burnt out, or like nothing is working despite your efforts, this episode will give you a completely new lens to look through. Topics We Cover in This Episode: Why doing “all the right things” can still keep you stuck The hidden signs your body may be overwhelmed at a cellular level How stress impacts your body in ways most people miss Why some people get worse before they ever get better The surprising reason your routine might be working against you How to tell if your body can actually receive the help you’re giving it The real difference between healing and just managing symptoms A simple way to start identifying what your body actually needs If this episode resonates with you, take it as a sign to pause and reassess what your body has been trying to tell you. You don’t need more complexity. You need clarity. Don’t forget to make sure you’re subscribed so you don’t miss future episodes. Resources & Links Connect with Dr. Eric Balcavage 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drericbalcavage/ 🌟 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drericbalcavage 📽️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@askdreric 🕹️ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.eric.balcavage 📰 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-eric-balcavage-b85ab111/ 📲 Follow Dr. Cassie Smith & Modern Endocrine 💻 Website: https://www.modern-endocrine.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/modernendocrine_/ 🌟 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ModernEndocrine 📽️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@modernendocrine 🕹️ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@modernendocrine?lang=en 📰 Newsletter: https://linktr.ee/modernendocrine ➡️ Disclaimer: https://www.modernendocrineokc.com/disclaimer-6353 Use code LISTEN10 for 10 % off your order on shopmodernendocrine.com
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