Podcast
Straight Up With Steph
Hosted by Stephanie Botts · EN
Your podcast for real tips on healthy posture, healthy habits, and a healthy life!
17episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Ep 94: EMDR Therapy Explained: Overcome Trauma + Anxiety + Rewire Your Brain
1w ago00:44:58Tap to summarizeIf you’ve ever thought, “Why am I still reacting like this even though I know better?” — this episode is going to hit.In this episode of Straight Up With Steph®, I sit down with EMDR therapist Dana Carretta-Stein to break down what trauma actually is, how it shows up in your daily life, and why healing isn’t just about awareness — it’s about rewiring your nervous system.We go way beyond surface-level mental health conversations and talk about why so many people stay stuck, how patterns form, and what actually creates lasting change.I also share more of my personal journey with alcohol, getting sober, and how EMDR was the piece that truly helped me stop reacting the way I used to and start feeling more in control.This episode is powerful, practical, and honestly… one I wish more people understood.🎧 In this episode, we cover:What trauma actually is (and why it’s different for everyone)Signs you may have unresolved trauma without realizing itWhat EMDR therapy is and how it worksWhy insight alone doesn’t create changeHow your nervous system drives anxiety, burnout, and reactionsThe connection between trauma, coping behaviors, and addictionHow EMDR helps you process — without re-traumatizing youGenerational trauma and how patterns get passed downWhy healing isn’t about “fixing” yourself, but understanding yourselfWhat to look for in a therapist (and how to find the right fit)If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone who needs it, follow the show, and leave a review — it helps more people find these conversations.🔑 Topics Discussed: EMDR therapy, trauma healing, nervous system regulation, generational trauma, anxiety, burnout, mental health, therapy for traumaAbout DanaConnect with Dana:Instagram: http://instagram.com/the_emdr_coachTiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@the_emdr_coachYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheEMDRCoachFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/theemdrcoach/Websites:The EMDR Coach: www.danacarretta.comPeaceful Living Mental Health Couseling: www.peacefullivingmentalhealthcounseling.com To watch on YouTube, click hereDisclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes. Send me a message, I’d love to hear from you! Click here for Mirror Gear Covers 🌟Cordless polisher: Click here and use code PODCAST150 for $150 off 🌟Click here for my free intro course To connect with me: 🦷Polished Posture Club➡️Instagram💻My Website📨Email: stephanie@polishedposture.net 💌Newsletter signup
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Ep 93: Should You Work Out During Your Period or While Pregnant? (What Women Need to Know)
2w ago00:55:18Tap to summarizeIf you’ve ever felt like your body is changing and no one really explained why… this episode is for you.In this episode of Straight Up With Steph®, I sit down with Dr. Jen Fraboni to break down what’s actually happening in women’s bodies through different life stages—and how to support yourself through it.We talk about everything from menstrual cycles and workouts, to pregnancy myths, postpartum recovery, and the reality of perimenopause. Dr. Jen brings an evidence-based, practical approach to pain, posture, pelvic health, and recovery—without the overwhelm or rigid rules.If you’ve been trying to “push through” or feel like your body isn’t responding the way it used to, this episode will help you understand why—and what to do about it.In this episode, we cover:Why you don’t need to train differently based on your cycle—but you do need to listen to your bodyHow hormones impact pain, recovery, and energy levelsThe truth about exercise during pregnancy (and outdated myths that still exist)What actually matters for postpartum recovery (and what most people skip)How pelvic health connects to pain, pressure, and performanceWhat’s happening in perimenopause that affects joints, strength, and recoveryWhy strength training becomes more important as we ageWhat soreness really means—and how to recover smarterSimple ways to support your body without overcomplicating itIf this episode helped you, share it with a friend or teammate who needs to hear it—and don’t forget to follow and leave a review so more people can find the show.Topics discussed: women’s health, pelvic floor, perimenopause, postpartum recovery, strength training for women, hormone health, injury prevention, recovery tips About Dr JenConnect with Dr Jen:Jen Health Platformhttps://instagram.com/docjenfithttps://www.youtube.com/c/docjenfit?sub_confirmation=1https://www.tiktok.com/@docjenfit?_r=1&_t=ZT-94HIlrqrgmDhttps://facebook.com/docjenfit To watch on YouTube, click hereDisclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes. Send me a message, I’d love to hear from you! Click here for Mirror Gear Covers 🌟Cordless polisher: Click here and use code PODCAST150 for $150 off 🌟Click here for my free intro course To connect with me: 🦷Polished Posture Club➡️Instagram💻My Website📨Email: stephanie@polishedposture.net 💌Newsletter signup
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Ep 92: How to Communicate Across Generations (Gen Z vs Millennials Explained)
Apr 1700:50:17Tap to summarizeEver feel like you’re speaking a completely different language than your patients, coworkers, or even your own team?I had that exact moment with a patient when I realized… I might not be as “cool” or relatable as I thought 😅 And it made me start questioning—are generational differences actually that big of a deal?In this episode of Straight Up With Steph®, I sit down with generational futurist, entrepreneur, and USA TODAY bestselling author Ryan Vet to unpack what’s really going on between generations—and how it’s impacting communication, leadership, and the workplace in real time.This conversation goes way deeper than labels like “Millennial” or “Gen Z.” We’re talking about how people are shaped, why expectations are shifting so fast, and what we need to do differently moving forward.In this episode, we cover:Why generational labels are often oversimplified (and what actually matters more)The defining traits of Millennials vs Gen Z—and where people get it wrongWhy communication feels harder across generations (especially in healthcare)How Gen Z is approaching work, boundaries, and “authenticity”The truth about job-hopping and whether younger generations are actually less loyalHow employers can better lead and retain multi-generational teamsWhy patients are more skeptical than ever—and how that impacts case acceptanceThe role of AI, social media, and the “velocity gap” in shaping behaviorWhy understanding what people value is the key to better leadership and connectionAt the end of the day, this episode is a reminder that while generations may differ… we’re still human beings trying to connect with other human beings.If this episode made you think differently, share it with someone on your team or in your life who needs to hear it.Follow the show, leave a review, and let me know your biggest takeaway!Topics Discussed: generational differences, Gen Z vs Millennials, workplace communication, leadership strategies, dental team communication, patient communication, future of work, generational valuesAbout RyanConnect with Ryan:https://youtube.com/ryancvetWebsite: https://ryanvet.comhttps://linkedin.com/in/ryanvethttps://instagram.com/ryancvetNewsletter: https://ryanvet.com/collide/To watch on YouTube, click hereDisclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle chaSend me a message, I’d love to hear from you! Click here for Mirror Gear Covers 🌟Cordless polisher: Click here and use code PODCAST150 for $150 off 🌟Click here for my free intro course To connect with me: 🦷Polished Posture Club➡️Instagram💻My Website📨Email: stephanie@polishedposture.net 💌Newsletter signup
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Ep 91: How to Train Your Brain for Better Focus, Memory & Mental Clarity
Apr 1000:57:11Tap to summarizeWhat if your brain isn’t declining… it’s just undertrained? What if simple brain games can improve it?In this episode of Straight Up With Steph®, I sit down with Jules from BrainBodyByJules to break down what’s really happening with your focus, memory, and mental clarity—and why so many of us feel like we’re operating on autopilot.We talk about how your brain is actually trainable (just like your body), and why things like processing speed, attention, and even your thought patterns are skills you can improve—not things you’re stuck with.This conversation completely changed how I think about brain health… and I think it will for you too.In this episode, we cover:Why “autopilot living” is making your brain weakerWhat neuroplasticity actually means (and how to use it)How modern convenience is impacting cognitive healthThe difference between multitasking vs. dual-task trainingSigns your processing speed might be decliningHow your phone is silently destroying your focusSimple brain exercises you can start doing todayWhy memory problems are often actually attention problemsLifestyle habits that support long-term brain healthIf you found this episode helpful, share it with a friend who wants better brain health too!To watch on Youtube, click hereTopics Discussed: brain health, neuroplasticity, improve memory, processing speed, brain exercises, focus training, cognitive health, brain fog, dual task trainingAbout JulesConnect with Jules:Insta: https://www.instagram.com/brainbodybyjules/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@brainbodybyjulessSkool: https://www.skool.com/brainbodybyjules-9310 Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes. Send me a message, I’d love to hear from you! Click here for Mirror Gear Covers 🌟Cordless polisher: Click here and use code PODCAST150 for $150 off 🌟Click here for my free intro course To connect with me: 🦷Polished Posture Club➡️Instagram💻My Website📨Email: stephanie@polishedposture.net 💌Newsletter signup
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Ep 90: Dermatologist Explains Why Your Skin Changes During Perimenopause
Apr 301:02:15Tap to summarizeWrinkles, hormonal acne, melasma, and dry skin can suddenly appear in your 40s — and hormones may be the reason.In this episode of Straight Up With Steph®, I’m joined by board-certified dermatologist and Menopause Society Certified Practitioner Dr. Corinne Erickson to talk about the connection between skin health, hormones, and aging.If you’ve noticed changes like adult acne, pigmentation, dryness, or sagging skin during perimenopause, you’re not imagining things. Hormonal shifts can dramatically affect collagen production, skin hydration, and elasticity.Dr. Erickson explains what’s actually happening in the skin during midlife, which skincare products truly matter, and which trends are mostly marketing hype.In this episode we discuss: • The most underrated skincare product everyone should be using • Why women often experience hormonal acne again in their 40s and 50s • What causes melasma and why it can be difficult to treat • How perimenopause affects collagen, hydration, and skin elasticity • Why women experience crepey skin and itchy skin during hormone shifts • The truth about 10-step skincare routines and what actually works • Treatments that can support healthy skin as we ageDr. Erickson is also the host of the podcast The Skin Pause, where she shares evidence-based insights about skin health during midlife.If you know someone navigating skin changes during perimenopause, send them this episode.Topics discussed: perimenopause skin changes, hormonal acne, melasma treatment, aging skin, collagen loss, skincare routines.About Dr CorinneConnect with Dr Corinne:Instagram: @drcorinneerickson WebsiteThe Skin Pause Podcast To watch on YouTube, click hereDisclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes. Send me a message, I’d love to hear from you! Click here for Mirror Gear Covers 🌟Cordless polisher: Click here and use code PODCAST150 for $150 off 🌟Click here for my free intro course To connect with me: 🦷Polished Posture Club➡️Instagram💻My Website📨Email: stephanie@polishedposture.net 💌Newsletter signup
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Ep 89: Constipation, Gas, and What Your Poop Says About Your Gut Health
Mar 2700:49:57Tap to summarizeConstipation, bloating, gas, and poop—these are topics people rarely talk about, but they can reveal a lot about what’s happening inside your gut.In this episode of Straight Up With Steph®, I continue my conversation with gastroenterologist and bestselling author Will Bulsiewicz.If you listened to Part 1, we talked about the gut microbiome, inflammation, and why fiber is so important for gut health.In this second half of the conversation, we dive into the digestive symptoms people struggle with the most and what they might actually be telling us about the microbiome.In this episode we discuss:• Why fiber can sometimes make constipation worse • The connection between constipation and bloating • Why constipation can sometimes look like diarrhea • What the Bristol stool scale tells us about gut health • The science behind gas and fermentation • Why gut bacteria produce methane • What your poop can reveal about your microbiome • The best position to sit in when you poopWe also get into some of the more awkward—but important—questions people often wonder about, like why some people have “clean wipers” and what that might say about digestion.If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the show, leave a review, or share it with someone who might benefit from it.Topics Discussed: constipation podcast, gut health podcast, bloating and gas explained, Bristol stool scale, digestive healthEpisode 88 (Part One)To watch on YouTube, click here About Dr BConnect with Dr B:https://theguthealthmd.com/https://www.facebook.com/theguthealthmd/https://www.instagram.com/theguthealthmdhttps://www.tiktok.com/@theguthealthmdhttps://theguthealthmd.com/plantpoweredplus/https://38tera.com/To watch on YouTube, click hereDisclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes. Send me a message, I’d love to hear from you! To connect with me: 🦷Polished Posture Club➡️Instagram💻My Website📨Email: stephanie@polishedposture.net 💌Newsletter signup
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Ep 88: How To Heal Your Gut With Dr Will Bulsiewicz
Mar 2000:43:33Tap to summarizeYour gut microbiome affects far more than digestion.In this episode of Straight Up With Steph®, I’m joined by gastroenterologist and bestselling author Will Bulsiewicz to talk about the science behind the gut microbiome and why fiber may be one of the most important nutrients most people are missing.Dr. B has spent years researching the gut microbiome and helping people understand how the trillions of microbes living inside our digestive system influence inflammation, chronic disease, and overall health.In this first part of our conversation, we break down the microbiome in a way that’s actually easy to understand—and talk about why modern diets may be disrupting gut health.In this episode we discuss:• What the gut microbiome actually is • Why inflammation is linked to so many chronic diseases • How the gut barrier works and what “leaky gut” really means • The connection between oral health and gut health • Why fiber feeds the microbiome • The impact of ultra-processed foods on gut bacteria • How the microbiome can influence cravings • Why increasing fiber can transform gut healthStay tuned for Part 2, where we talk about constipation, bloating, gas, and what your poop can actually reveal about your gut health.Click here for Part TwoIf you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast, leave a review, or share it with a friend who wants better GI health!Topics discussed: gut microbiome, gut health podcast, fiber and gut health, inflammation and gut health, digestive health podcastTo watch on YouTube, click hereAbout Dr BConnect with Dr B:https://theguthealthmd.com/https://www.facebook.com/theguthealthmd/https://www.instagram.com/theguthealthmdhttps://www.tiktok.com/@theguthealthmdhttps://theguthealthmd.com/plantpoweredplus/https://38tera.com/Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes. Send me a message, I’d love to hear from you! To connect with me: 🦷Polished Posture Club➡️Instagram💻My Website📨Email: stephanie@polishedposture.net 💌Newsletter signup
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Ep 87: Alternative Careers in Dentistry: Opportunities Beyond the Operatory
Mar 600:43:26Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Straight Up With Steph®, we’re talking about something I get asked about all the time—career options in dentistry outside of clinical practice.After more than 17 years as a dental hygienist and building my company Polished Posture, I’ve learned there are far more opportunities available to dental professionals than many of us realize.If you’ve ever thought:“I’m just a hygienist or dentist”“I don’t know what else I could do.”“I want something different but I don’t know where to start.”This episode is for you.I’m sharing the paths I’ve personally explored, what I’ve learned along the way, and how your existing clinical skills translate into careers outside of the operatory.We talk about:• Starting a business in dentistry • Becoming a speaker or educator • Content creation and social media opportunities • Working with dental companies or becoming a rep • Teaching at dental schools • Consulting and clinical training roles • Networking and building industry relationshipsThe truth is—dental professionals already have the communication, marketing, education, and leadership skills that companies are looking for.Sometimes we just need permission to think bigger.If you're feeling burnt out, curious about new opportunities, or wondering what your career could look like outside the chair, this episode will open your eyes to what’s possible.To watch on YouTube, click hereDisclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes. Send me a message, I’d love to hear from you! Click here for Mirror Gear Covers 🌟Cordless polisher: Click here and use code PODCAST150 for $150 off 🌟Click here for my free intro course To connect with me: 🦷Polished Posture Club➡️Instagram💻My Website📨Email: stephanie@polishedposture.net 💌Newsletter signup
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Ep 86: Endometriosis Symptoms Every Woman Should Know Plus Tips for Hygiene Students
Feb 2700:59:26Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I sit down with dental hygienist, educator, and entrepreneur Dana Paladino, RDH, to talk about a topic that impacts millions of women yet is still widely misunderstood—endometriosis. Dana shares her personal 20-year journey to diagnosis, the medical gaslighting she experienced, and how chronic pain shaped her mental health, career path, and ultimately her decision to have a hysterectomy.We also dive into how endometriosis shows up in the workplace, the shame many feel when symptoms interfere with work, and why self-advocacy is critical when something doesn’t feel right. Beyond health, Dana talks about the struggles dental hygiene students face today, burnout culture in dentistry, and how she created Dental Hygiene Basics to support students who need help passing boards and navigating school.In this episode we cover:What endometriosis actually is—and why it’s so hard to diagnoseCommon symptoms: pelvic pain, fatigue, bowel & urinary issues, “endo belly”Why imaging often misses lesions delaying diagnosisMedical gaslighting and learning to trust your bodyWorking full-time with severe periods and chronic painBurnout culture in hygiene school and in practiceCareer options outside the operatory and transferable RDH skillsIf you’ve ever felt dismissed by the medical system, exhausted in the operatory, or unsure what’s “normal” with your body—this conversation is for you.About DanaConnect with Dana:@dentalhygienebasics on Tiktok, Instagram, and Youtube The Dental Hygiene Basics Podcast : https://www.dentalhygienebasics.com/podcastTo watch on YouTube, click hereDisclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes. Send me a message, I’d love to hear from you! Click here for Mirror Gear Covers 🌟Cordless polisher: Click here and use code PODCAST150 for $150 off 🌟Click here for my free intro course To connect with me: 🦷Polished Posture Club➡️Instagram💻My Website📨Email: stephanie@polishedposture.net 💌Newsletter signup
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Ep 85: Your Best Years Aren’t Behind You In Midlife (Here’s Why)
Feb 1301:03:53Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I sit down with Maggie Topham, integrative health coach and passionate advocate for helping women thrive in midlife. Maggie shares her powerful personal journey—from feeling lost, exhausted, and “fluffy” in her 40s to rebuilding her health through blood sugar awareness, strength training, and a muscle-centric approach to living.We talk about why what worked in our 20s stops working in perimenopause, how endless cardio can backfire, and why protein + lifting are the real game changers. Maggie also gets real about GLP-1 medications, hormone therapy (especially testosterone!), and how to get out of the cycle of dieting and punishment workouts.If you’ve ever felt like your body isn’t your own anymore, this conversation will give you hope—and a practical roadmap to feel strong, confident, and energized again.We cover:Why midlife weight gain is metabolic, not a willpower problemHow Maggie went from size 16 → 0 without extreme dietingThe truth about cardio vs. strength training after 40Protein targets and how Maggie structures her day of eatingInsulin resistance, CGMs, and blood sugar basicsTestosterone for women and the mental health connectionGLP-1 pros, cons, and what scares us mostHow to start lifting—even if the gym intimidates youIf you’re tired of being told “this is just aging,” this episode is for you.About MaggieConnect with Maggie:Instagram: func_healthTikTok @maggie.topFacebook: func.HealthWarrior BabeDynamic Health InstituteTo watch on YouTube, click hereDisclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes.Send me a message, I’d love to hear from you! Click here for Mirror Gear Covers 🌟Cordless polisher: Click here and use code PODCAST150 for $150 off 🌟Click here for my free intro course To connect with me: 🦷Polished Posture Club➡️Instagram💻My Website📨Email: stephanie@polishedposture.net 💌Newsletter signup
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