The Optimal Body

What is Breathwork? What makes it a hot topic? Let’s dive into the science of breathwork and how it relates to the autonomic nervous system. DocJen & Dr. Dom dive into stress and recovery and how breath can be one simple tool to access the different states. They describe the differences between the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, how they related to principles of survival, and how these principles manifest in pain. By talking through the power of diaphragmatic breathing, and the differences between anaerobic and aerobic, they provide insight into their best techniques and tools to understand your own breath and how to determine what breathwork to use when. Tune in! Paleo Valley Discount: Dr. Jen & Dr. Dom swear by Paleovalley because they know everything that is in their beef sticks and can trust the ingredients list. There’s no vague labeling or words they don’t understand on the packaging! Stack them up in your pantry using code ‘OPTIMAL’ to get a 15% discount at checkout. What You Will Learn In This PT Pearl: 03:09 - How we breathe and why it's important 12:07 - How to diaphragmatically breathe 19:34 - Techniques and tools for breathing 21:28 - The differences between anaerobic and aerobic Watch Episode 160 on Youtube For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/160 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Wanting to fix your relationship with food? Had experience with an eating disorder? Wanting out of your eating disorder? Know that you are not alone! Kelsey Heenan, takes us through an emotional ride as she describes her eating disorder journey, her thoughts, and exactly how she was feeling as she tried to navigate her overriding, fearful, and anxiety-inducing thoughts around food and body image. As she dives into the social pressures associated with being a female and an athlete, she explains the miscommunication around what healthy eating consists of, the importance of fueling for performance, and how she re-orientated herself around triggering foods. As an athlete who had to quit because of her physical conditions from her eating disorder, Kelsey dives into how she felt after re-feeding, how she approaches disordered eating, and when she thinks calorie counting is beneficial. Through education, Kelsey provides her favorite way to get individuals to begin to approach their relationships with food and how movement can help heal your relationship with food and body image. Let’s lean with Kelsey! Free Week of the Jen Health Membership: Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all currated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout! What You Will Learn in this Interview with Kelsey Heenan: 3:50 - Kelsey’s Background 7:10 - Kelsey’s Anorexia Diagnosis 10:13 - Where was there miscommunication about what healthy eating is 11:29 - Was Kelsey the only one experiencing restriction 13:46 - How did Kelsey re-orient and eat triggering foods again 17:23 - Did Kelsey’s restriction affect her athletics? 18:35 - What changes did Kelsey feel after re-feeding? 20:52 - How to approach disordered eating 24:14 - Are “what I eat in a day” valuable? 28:10 - How to approach calorie counting and when is it appropriate? 33:59 - Does Kelsey still struggle with disordered behaviors and thoughts around food? 36:40 - How did Kelsey move into education through movement 39:32 - Where can you learn with Kelsey To learn more about Kelsey and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/159 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Consistency, awareness, accountability/community, grace/compassion, individuality. Do these resonate with you? To DocJen ad Dr.Dom, these ideas mold the path to finding what’s optimal within your body and how you can truly begin to feel something different. They dive into The Optimal Body Membership and the Jen Platform, and how these concepts manifest through the toolbox they provide you and empower you with. Let’s tune in! Free Week of the Jen Health Membership: Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all currated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout! What You Will Learn In This PT Pearl: 1:38 - The umbrella of individuality 4:38 - Get 50% off The Optimal Body Membership 9:02 - Accountability & Community 14:58 - Breaking the stigma around working with your partner! 10:15 - Consistency 11:16 - Awareness 14:06 - Grace & Compassion 17:00 - The individuality of your journey may change! 19:46 - Final takeaways! Watch Episode 158 on Youtube For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/158 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Curious about baby development? Feel like your parent-worth is defined by the visible developmental stage of your baby? Wanting to optimize the physical and neurological development of your baby? Kailee, a pediatric physical therapist, walks you through her top tips in navigating self-worth as a parent and how it relates to baby development, as well as her approach to finding a balance between allowing natural exploration, nurture for your baby, safety-watch, and interference or control over the stimuli they are exposed to. Furthermore, Kailee shares the importance of crawling for physical and neurological development, and how different stages of baby development relate to spinal and joint maturation and innate reflexes. With a particular focus on tummy time and floor play, Kailee’s provides insight into appropriate levels of standing for babies and when baby containers may or may not be beneficial for babies. As she debunks common marketing promotions for baby containers, she discusses how baby containers may be affecting hip and spinal maturation, as well as independent walking. Finally, she explains how parents can create a more active environment through the idea of imitation, and the importance of spending more time outside. Let’s take a deep dive into baby development. Paleo Valley Discount: We also mention PaleoValley throughout the episode. En route to their next destination, currently, Doc Jen & Dr. Dom take these EVERYWHERE. PaleoValley is their go-to when they’re feeling peckish. For a complete protein, whole food, and all-natural snack. get your 100% grass-fed beef stick or superfood bar for a discount using code “OPTIMAL” at checkout. What You Will Learn in this Interview with Kailee Nolan: 2:16 - What drew Kailee into Pediatric Physical Therapy 5:29 - How Kailee navigates differences in google’s definitions of baby development 9:11 - Kailee’s recommendations on interfering with baby development 12:41 - Why is crawling so pertinent? 15:06 - Tips on progressing from crawling to upright play & inspiring confidence 18:52 - Is it okay for babies to stand a lot? 22:03 - Is there a benefit to using jumper/bouncer devices? 26:18 - Baby Containers Kailee does not recommend 33:04 - How can parents keep their kids active? 39:02 - The power of getting outside & how the pandemic influenced that! 39:57 - Kailee’s projects coming soon & her current guides 42:10 - Where you can learn more about Kailee To learn more about Kailee and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/157 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Worried about noises in your ankle? Can you stop bodywork if you improve mobility? Thinking about working with your significant other? Thinking about investing in a pair of Vivo Barefoot shoes? DocJen & Dr. Dom dive into it all, providing their insights on coaching beginners, the power of mobility, the pelvic floor, breaking stigmas around working with your partner, the noises from your ankles, and their favorite VivoBarefoot shoes! Tune in! Paleo Valley Discount: We also mention PaleoValley throughout the episode. En route to their next destination, currently, Doc Jen & Dr. Dom take these EVERYWHERE. PaleoValley is their go-to when they’re feeling peckish. For a complete protein, whole food, and all-natural snack. get your 100% grass-fed beef stick or superfood bar for a discount using code “OPTIMAL” at checkout. What You Will Learn In This PT Pearl: 3:53 - Ankle Popping- Should you be worried? 8:45 - Balancing cues and natural movement when coaching beginners 12:32 - Can you stop getting bodywork done by improving mobility? 14:58 - Breaking the stigma around working with your partner! 19:27 - Insights on Pelvic Floor 24:20 - VivoBarefoot - The different types & Favorites To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3svxLZBUIf8 For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/156 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Commitment, Excellence, Respect. Resonate with these values? Luka shines a light on topics of identity, an individual’s narrative, self-esteem, and confidence as characteristics of cultivating a healthy mindset to build healthy habits. To start off, Luka discusses the philosophy he currently lives his life by and shares four values that help him cultivate the unique culture that he embodies. In spite of his story, he shares the profound effects of collecting role models, and how to dig deeper into who and what those role models truly represent. Then, he dives into how building habits and changing your body influence your narrative, providing his top tips to diving deeper and truly discovering the truths within your narrative. Using a vote casting analogy, Luka describes how self-esteem, confidence, and commitment integrate to form your identity. Using his take on commitment, Luka shares 4 stages to optimizing your mindset: learning, doing, being, and becoming. Through the importance of awareness, he shares mindset shifts during the “becoming” stage. Let’s get to the depths of your narrative and identity to truly optimize your mindset and guide your healthy habits! VivoBarefoot Discount: Let’s get barefoot! Be the one who doesn’t have to kick their shoes off, with access to the ground and zero foot drop. Free your feet of the shoe prison they were previously living in and utilize your feet! These are the only shoes Doc Jen & Dr. Dom wear daily when walking and working out. They have drastically improved the function of Doc Dom’s feet and allowed Doc Jen’s toes to improve functional mobility and decrease the big toe from drifting into the other toes! Respond, get strong, and move better with your very own Vivos! Get 15% OFF using code “TOB” with VivoBarefootShoes at checkout and finally feel like to FREE YOUR FEET!! **Vivo offers a 100-Day trial period. If you are not completely satisfied, you can send the shoes back and get a refund. What You Will Learn in this Interview with Luka Hocevar: 4:31 - The Philosophy Luka has been living by 10:1 - Values that Luka carries which cultivate the culture he embodies 17:03 - Collecting Role Models 20:43 -How does changing your body change your story 24:32 - How do you dive deeper into discovering your narrative 29:32 - Casting votes for identity & self-esteem 33:39 - Luka take on the commitment 35:50 - 4 stages to a healthy habits & mindset 37:04 - Becoming aware to build your narrative 40:07 - Mindset shifts in the “becoming” stage 50:50 - Luka’s Final Takeaways To learn more about Luka and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/159 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Shoulder popping left right and center? Hearing or feeling weird noises from your shoulder? Let’s combat your assumptions about what is happening in the shoulder in this episode! DocJen & Dr. Dom explain the medical diagnosis – shoulder crepitus- for noises in the shoulder. Explaining the anatomy of the shoulder, they break down the types of noises that could be associated with pathologies around the shoulder. Furthermore, Docjen & Dr. Dom dive into how rounded shoulders could be related to different noises occurring in the shoulder, and the importance of getting it checked out and assessed by a physical therapist in person. Then, they describe their best tips to improving shoulder function, speaking into mobility and strength, and what to consider if there is no pain associated with the noises from your shoulder. Tune in! Manscaped Discount: Manscape Performance Package 4.0. Look forward to shaving again with the new signature lawnmower, an electrical trimmer with skin-safe technology. Prevent nicks and cuts, look, feel, and smell fresh throughout the day. Another gift checked off as the holiday season approaches. Use code ‘OPTIMAL’ to get your Manscape Performance Package! What You Will Learn In This PT Pearl: 2:30 - What is Shoulder Crepitus? 4:30 - Anatomy around the shoulder 5:57 - Noises with pathologies 7:20 - Are the crack sand pops bad? 8:51 - Get it checked out early! 10:09 - Diagnosis associated with shoulder noises 13:20 - Could rounded shoulders be related? 16:54 - Get it checked out with a physical therapy 18:44- How to improve shoulder function 24:09- What happens if you improve mobility around the shoulder? 25:21- What to do if you are having pain with your noises To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://youtube.com/watch/ For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/154 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

“You are an athlete if you have a body.” Kaisa, the co-founder of Just Move, spills the truths about movement, recovery, and how it all relates to finding your truth and freedom within the body. Kaisa goes way back to middle school and high school, sharing her journey with navigating body confidence, fitting in, and athletic ability as an adolescent. She shares how she overcame obstacles with body image issues and how she currently strives to look beyond aesthetics and towards performance. She gets vulnerable, sharing her story with injuries, and how it helped her reconnect, respect her body, train smarter, and recover harder. Furthermore, Kaisa shares her perspective on the body positivity movement and how she manages the discrepancy between her athleticism and her approach to beginners as a coach. Kaisa shares her insights on truly coaching at a “starting level,” a concept lost in the world of fitness, how the fitness world needs to change its priorities, and what it means to “just move,” touching base on fun, inclusive, and variety in movement. Finally, she discusses the importance of recovery, how to understand what type of recovery you need, her interests in dance, and how she uses movement as a tool to show up for herself, stay consistent, be real with herself, and comprehend that work-fun balance we all strive for. Learn how just starting to move can change the game for you! PaleoValley Discount: As DocJen & Dr. Dom are on the move, exploring America, they turn to PalleoValley to satiate them with their nutritious 100% grass-fed beef jerky and protein bars. Free yourself from that sugar crash and feel safe knowing you have a snack you can trust, all with natural ingredients you know and understand, in your household. Get powerhouse ingredients and nutrients without the extra additives and preservatives. Get 15% OFF your next purchase with PalleoVallley at checkout, using ‘OPTIMAL’. What You Will Learn in this Interview with Kaisa Keranen: 3:05 - How Kaisa found freedom in her body 10:08 - Kaisa’s post on Body Positivity vs Toxic Positivity 13:45 - How Kaisa’s injuries got her to look past the physical 17:23 - How does Kaisa approach beginners 24:04 - Defining ‘starting level’ & how the fitness world needs a new awakening 27:00 - Fun & inclusive movement, mobility, and meeting people where they’re at 29:34 - Variety in Kaisa’s program 30:45 - Kaisa’s recovery & mobility 33:50 - How do you know what type of recovery you need 38:44 - The importance of knowing who you are & setting yourself up for success 40:20 - Consistency & being real with yourself 42:42 - How Kaisa navigates work and fun 45:57 - How movement is a tool to reconnect 49:30 - Go check out “Just Move” To learn more about Kaisa and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/153 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is meniscus injury worrying you? Considering surgery but feel like there’s a way out? Dr. Jen & Dr. Dom dive into the anatomy of the Menisci, potential causes, and which populations tend to be of higher risk. Then, Dr. Dom shares his journey with his Meniscus injury, speaking into his mistakes and his post-rehabilitation. Dr. Jen & Dr. Dom discuss their perspective on surgery and the importance of attempting rehabilitation before surgery. In spite of rehabilitation, they take you through knee rehabilitation step by step, breaking down how mobility, muscle activations and stabilization exercises, and strength in the posterior chain are vital to the initial stages of injury rehabilitation. With a particular focus on hip-hinging movement patterns to offload their knees initially, they shift the paradigm in fearing knees over toes and speak into progressive overloading the knees to create healthy and resilient knees! Learn to train and rehabilitate the knees to tolerate all of life’s uncertainties! VivoBarefoot Discount: Improve your feet = improve your body! Free your feet of the shoe prison they were previously living in. These are the only shoes Doc Jen & Dr. Dom wear daily when walking and working out. They have drastically improved the function of Doc Dom’s feet and allowed Doc Jen’s toes to improve functional mobility and decrease the big toe from drifting into the other toes! Get 15% OFF using code “TOB” with VivoBarefoot Shoes at checkout and finally feel like to FREE YOUR FEET!! **Vivo offers a 100-Day trial period. If you are not completely satisfied, you can send the shoes back and get a refund. What You Will Learn In This PT Pearl: 01:45 - What is the Meniscus? 4:00 - Who tends to be more affected & causes! 5:12 - Dr. Dom's journey with Meniscus Injury 7:20 - Tools to build the Coba board 8:57 - Checking out how mobile your neighbors are! 12:32 - Explore your knee range of motion! 14:46 - Hip Stabilization & Activating Muscles Appropriately 16:57 - Do you have gluteal amnesia? 18:02 - Let's get hip-hinging first! 18:48- Progressing knee exercises 18:42- How to tolerate knees over toes a little bit more 20:55- Progressive Overload & Get Coordinated To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://youtube.com/watch/ For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/152 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Wondering what the hype is around nasal breathing? Brian Mackenzie is on for the second time to explain the science behind breath and how it can modulate panic, anxiety, and pain. Brian discusses how we can control our breathing to upregulate or downregulate the body, and the power in-breath, and how it can potentially take you off pharmaceuticals. In light of his Nosevember challenge, Brian dives into the anatomy and physiology of nasal breathing and how it plays into deviated septums, snoring, pain, and switching on the parasympathetic nervous system. Finally, Brian provides breathing techniques to get you started on your journey to breath awareness. Let’s dive into all things breath! Free Week of the Jen Health Membership: Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all currated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout! What You Will Learn in this Interview with Brian Mackenzie 4:30 - The real importance of breathing 6:37 - How does breath relate to pain 10:51 - Techniques to access parasympathetic 12:43 - Can you come off pharmaceuticals using breath? 15:38 - How to use breath to become more alert or more relaxed? 18:28 - Nosember - why is the nose important for breathing> 26:35 - How to address your deviated Septum? 29:27 - The importance of extending exhales & breath holds 34:40 - Snoring & Nasal Breathing 37:18 - Nosevember 40:50 - Trimming the hair in your nose 42:23 - Learn more about Brian About Brian Mackenzie: Brian is a human performance expert, educator, author, and public speaker. Brian is a coach with more than two decades experience of in innovating new protocols for training Olympians, professional athletes, entrepreneurs, and high performers in numerous realms on the use of mechanical and breathing tools to achieve maximum output in training, competition, recovery, and stress. He is the author of the New York Times Best Seller Unbreakable Runner, CEO/Chief Creative Officer of SH//FT, co-founder of The Art of Breath, and also co-founder of XPT Life. He has also run and managed programs in the California State Correctional Institution; San Quentin State Prison. His clients have included and he has consulted for: Ari Emanuel, Kelly Starrett, Tim Ferriss, US Military and Special Forces Units (Navy, Army, Marines), Tia Clair Toomey, Rich Froning Jr., Dr. Andrew Huberman (The Huberman Lab) & Stanford University, Dr. Andy Galpin & Cal State Fullerton, Dr. Jimmy Bailey & San Francisco State, San Jose State, San Quentin State Prison, and many others. To learn more about Brian and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/151 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Do you get cortisone injections for pain? Thinking about cortisone injections for pain relief? DocJen & Dr. Dom let the truths ring free about cortisone injections. They dive into how cortisone injections work, simply describing how it affects pain and inflammation. They break down cortisone injection categories and provide insight into how glucocorticoids metabolize in the body. Moreover, they present current perspectives on cortisone injections through research. Finally, they present their final takeaways that revolve around using the effects of injections to move more! Learn all about whether you truly need to pursue cortisone injections! Free Week of the Jen Health Membership: Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all currated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout! What You Will Learn In This PT Pearl: 3:30 - What do Cortisone injections do? 6:04 - Why do we get cortisone shots? 7:29 - Cortisone shots categories 9:48 - Glucocorticoids 13:07 - Research on cortisone injections 18:25 - How the medical industry gets crafty with injections 20:09 - Adding in movement with your injection 22:27 - Key Takeaways To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BZP_yTkEZxw For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/150 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Feeling a need to be inspired with confidence? Olympian, Samantha Peszek, shares her journey with confidence and self-talk through her Gymnastics Career. As a high-level and young athlete, specifically, the beam event in gymnastics presented several obstacles that Samantha had to overcome through confidence and the support of others around her. She dives into how one’s environment and parental support influences a young athlete’s ability to approach difficult decisions and navigate a sport as precision-based and skill-based as gymnastics. Touching base on how she coaches through burnout in athletes, Samantha shares her insights on how she preaches goal setting and helps athletes deal with perfectionism in sport. Speaking to the illusion of being perfect, she discusses how skills formed through sport are transferrable to other aspects of life and career pathways, sharing her story with reporting. Learn more about Samantha’s coaching and how she addressed the mental obstacles in Gymnastics. Vivobarefoot Discount: Free up your world by freeing up your feet! VivoBarefoot shoes help you build strength in the foot and teach the foot to accommodate your own body! By learning to adapt to all the different terrains in your surrounding, the feet, and the feet, brain, and body remain happy. A study showed a 60% increase in foot strength by wearing VivoBarefoot shoes for 6 months consistently, and you a little over 3 months to return your shoes. Try them out and invest in your health. Use code ‘TOB‘ to get 15% off! Free Week of the Jen Health Membership: Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all currated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout! What You Will Learn In This Interview with Samantha Peszek 3:21 - Where does Jennifer's passion come from? 5:25 - Samantha’s story 8:26 - Is Gymnastics the hardest sport? 10:03 - What it feels like to compete at the highest level? 18:03 - How does the environment affect your confidence? 21:19 - Navigating Burnout 25:24 - Goal Setting 29:40 - The illusion of being perfect 32:30 - How to coach passions in other careers 36:07 - How did Samantha have the confidence to keep exploring? 44:29 - Samantha’s podcast 47:45 - Find more about Samantha & her boot camp About Samantha Peszek With her passionate energy and engaging demeanor, Samantha Peszek has quickly established herself as a bright young star both as a sports broadcaster and entrepreneur. Having been a gymnast for 22 years, she loves still being connected to the sport as a coach and founder of Beam Queen Bootcamp and an analyst for the PAC-12 Networks and ESPN. Starting gymnastics at the age of 2, Samantha has always been a sports fanatic. She also played soccer and danced, but her gymnastics continued to excel, making her the youngest member of the national team at age 12. Traveling the world competing for Team USA, Samantha was on the Pan American Games team that won gold in Rio and the World Championship team that won gold in Stuttgart. To learn more about Samantha and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/149 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Feeling pain around the outer hips? Been diagnosed with hip-related bursitis/ tendonitis/ tendinopathy? DocJen and Dr. Dom dive into current perspectives on inflammation-related diagnosis in the hips. With shifts in understanding towards tissue adaptations and tissue arrangement dysregulation, they explain the differences between the different diagnoses and what is happening when symptoms are elicited chronically. Explaining the anatomy surrounding the glutes, they explain the difference between “itis” and “osis,” and the different bursas in the region. Steering away from approaches that target inflammation, DocJen & Dr. Dom offer tools on how loading the tissues, strength, and working on muscular coordination will get you on track to pain-free movement optimally! Tune in to learn how you can begin to address your lateral (outer) hip pain! PaleoValley Discount: As DocJen & Dr. Dom are on the move, exploring America, they turn to PalleoValley to satiate them with their nutritious 100% grass-fed beef jerky and protein bars. Free yourself from that sugar crash and feel safe knowing you have a snack you can trust, all with natural ingredients you know and understand, in your household. Get powerhouse ingredients and nutrients without the extra additives and preservatives. Get 15% OFF your next purchase with PalleoVallley at checkout, using ‘OPTIMAL’. What You Will Learn In This PT Pearl: 2:56 - Tendinopathies 4:35 - The butt muscles 6:39 - “Bursitis” 7:36 - From ‘itis’ to ‘osis’ 8:45 - What are bursa? 9:58 - Current research on Gluteal Bursitis? 10:38 - Will tools to decrease inflammation fix your pain? 12:20 - Spectrum of diagnosis & why Function matters 14:40 - Strength & pain perception 16:02 - It takes time 17:30 - Tests for glute strength 19:30 - Exercises for the side of the hip 21:30 - The power of Active range of motion 22:30 - How to move and learn with Dr. Jen 26:13 - Muscle Primers To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://youtube.com/watch/ For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/148 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Find eating healthy boring? Feeling like social experiences are compromised with healthy eating? We have Jennifer Peters, founder of Just Be Kitchen, on to expand your views on getting creative with healthy eating. From start to finish, Jennifer outlines her journey to how she opened up the JustBe restaurant, and where her passion came from. Through her story, she shares the changes she made to her diet to perform optimally, and how she navigated her relationship with hidden added sugars. She speaks about Just Be’s most creative recipes and how they have impacted hundreds of people’s lives through healthy relationships with food. Finally, she shares how the pandemic has helped her embrace her passion in an even more meaningful way and ends with her top food swaps to optimize your health! Learn more about Just Be’s Christmas launch and all the work they are doing to nourish and sustain optimal health! Free Week of the Jen Health Membership: Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all currated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout! What You Will Learn In This Interview with Jennifer Peters: 3:21 - Where does Jennifer's passion come from? 6:51 - What created performance shifts for Jennifer? 9:26 - Reframing sugar cravings 11:31 - How is the Just Be Kitchen changing food relationships 14:19 - Just Be's most creative recipes 17:08 - Jennifer's relationship with food 22:13 - How did the name 'Just Be' come about? 24:30 - How has Jennifer shifted during the pandemic? 31:14 - Why awareness makes the biggest difference? 34:20 - Christmas launch & Learn more about Just Be Kitchen About Jennifer Peters Jennifer is the founder & foodie of just be the kitchen. She wanted to close the gap between who she was and what she did and felt compelled to open a wellness company. Tired with healthy food being depicted as limited, boring, or about the sacrifice she opened Denver’s first and only 100% gluten, grain, refined sugar, dairy, soy, peanut, and legume-free restaurant focused on comfort food “JBK style.” Just BE Kitchen has been cited Denver’s best gluten-free in various publications including Westward and Eater and Just BE is also the only Whole30 ap5roved restaurant in the State of Colorado! To learn more about Jennifer and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/147 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Wanting to kick-start your movement journey, but don’t know where to start? Wondering if a 30-day challenge is for you? Wanting to create more sustainable and healthier habits? DocJen & Dr. Dom navigate the world of healthy movement habits, speaking into the upcoming Grateful For My Body challenge, starting November 1st. Firstly, they discuss what to consider when kickstarting your journey to creating a habit, and why looking at adding in instead of avoiding may be more beneficial. Then, Dr. Dom speaks into creating a 1% goal and what it means to start small, addressing the importance of assessing instead of guessing. Finally, they dive into what is unique in this year’s 30-day challenge. With highly adaptable and modifiable workouts, accountability, community, and a guide to keeping you consistent, DocJen doesn’t hold back on the education and cueing to truly help you explore the body. If you want to start moving optimally, now is your chance! Free Week of the Jen Health Membership: Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all currated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout! What You Will Learn In This PT Pearl: 4:30 - The questions to ask yourself to make a habit stick? 6:56 - What it means to add-in instead of avoiding 8:11 - The 1% goal - start small 10:30 - Assess, don’t guess 12:32 - Do HIIT workouts scare you? 14:00 - Educated by a doctor of physical therapy/ professional! 16:17 - Consistency 18:15 - How to address symptoms of pain that may not be due to Scoliosis 18:18 - An introduction to what is possible 19:01 - Community & Calendar Plan 20:56 - Prizes 23:35 - How long you have access to the Grateful For My Body content To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://youtube.com/watch/ For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/146 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We’re dropping the facts on Vaginal health with Dr. Janelle Howell. With an overarching emphasis on addressing the root cause, Dr. Janelle kicks off the podcast on the topic of normalizing the “tabooness” around the pelvic floor and vaginal health. Then, she debunks common myths about Vaginal Hygiene, highlighting the history and consequences of Lysol- use and toxic chemicals to clean the vagina. Furthermore, Dr. Janelle discusses the basic anatomy of the female reproductive system and what different odors indicate, emphasizing an analogy comparing vaginas to armpits. She explains which products and ingredients to avoid, and how to prevent infection by maintaining vaginal acidity. Moreover, she describes how fibrous foods can support Vaginal pH levels, the use of lubrication during painful sex, the use of lubrication for dryness, and how urinary tract infections can occur from sex. Also, she addresses how sex is a two-way street, honing in on the importance of postural function on pelvic health, erections, and ejaculations for females and males respectively. By providing insight into how pelvic floor muscle function can be improved, she dives into the topic of Vaginal fitness. Let’s optimize your Vaginal health! Vivobarefoot Discount: Kick-off your shoes and try spreading your toes? We have intrinsic foot muscles that connect up from the toes through the bottom of the feet. These muscles provide strength and function of the foot, articulate how the arch is moving, how the foot responds to the ground, and how it supports everything ip the chain. The wide toe box in VivoBarefoot shoes allow your toes to spread and your intrinsic foot muscles to feel the ground. Click on the image and use code TOB to 15% offyour new pair of shoes. Remember, you have 100 days to try them out, exchange, or return them! What You Will Learn In This Interview with Dr. Janelle Howell: 5:27 - Normalizing conversations about pelvic health 7:30 - Debunking myths about Vaginal Hygiene 9:55 - Anatomy 11:52 - Addressing Odors 13:21 - What are some products to stay away from? 15:20 - What can impact the Vaginal internal environment? 19:27 - Foods that can support a healthy Vaginal PH 21:48 - Lubrication, Pain During Sex & Dryness 24:42 - Does dryness indicate more lubrication? 31:06 - How pelvic floor muscles affect erections in males 33:54 - How to improve pelvic floor muscle function 37:45 - Vaginal Fitness & Kegels 39:20 - How to learn more with Dr. Janelle About Dr. Janelle Howell Dr. Janelle Howell is a Pelvic Physical Therapist on a mission to revolutionize vaginal health by providing quality vaginal education through social media. She teaches others about less commonly understood topics such as vaginal pH, vaginal fitness, and vaginal nutrition. She is a Women’s Certified Specialist and Board Certified by the National Physical Therapy Board. Items mentioned: Dr. Janelle's Website Join Dr. Janelles Class - Oct 24 2021 To learn more about Dr. Janelle and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/145 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Have you been diagnosed with Scoliosis? Do you fear your diagnosis? Believe that you can’t move a certain way due to your Scoliosis? DocJen & Dr.Dom are here to tell you that your image does not necessarily determine your pain or describe your function. As DocJen describes her journey with her diagnosis story, she shares her experience with attributing her pains and limitations to her scoliosis and how her diagnosis wasn’t necessarily the source of her pain. DocJen & Dr. Dom speak into imaging and degrees of Scoliosis and how movement can change your symptoms and allow you to truly feel something different. They describe the types of scoliosis, the effects of surgery, and explain the naturally-existing asymmetries within our bodies. Finally, they provide their top tips for addressing your Scoliosis, leaving you with a heartful takeaway that you won’t want to miss! PaleoValley Discount: As DocJen & Dr. Dom are on the move, exploring America, they turn to PalleoValley to satiate them with their nutritious 100% grass-fed beef jerky and protein bars. Free yourself from that sugar crash and feel safe knowing you have a snack you can trust, all with natural ingredients you know and understand, in your household. Get 15% OFF your next purchase with PalleoVallley at checkout, using ‘OPTIMAL’. What You Will Learn In This PT Pearl: 2:57 - What is Scoliosis and what does it mean? 5:32 - Don’t let your doctor’s diagnosis define you 7:30 - Imaging, degrees, and what they determine? 9:10 - The power of movement with scoliosis 11:25 - Types of scoliosis 13:00 - Effects of surgery: personal and clinical 15:52 - Inside to our asymmetrical anatomy 18:15 - How to address symptoms of pain that may not be due to Scoliosis 20:52 - How the Optimal Body - Mobility & Strength that may be beneficial for Scoliosis 22:11 - Scoliosis Take-away To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://youtube.com/watch/ For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/144 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Need more time with your doctor? Feel like you’re not being heard by your doctor? Frustrated with the lack of help you get in the traditional health care system? We have got Dr. Alec Weir, Dr. Dom’s functional medicine doctor on Steady MD, here to talk about how virtual medicine may be exactly what you need. With an underlying theme of availability, convenience, and connection, Dr. Alec shares what drove him to be a functional doctor and a virtual doctor. He shares his process in becoming a medical doctor to a functional medicine doctor, what makes functional medicine different, the biggest barrier to virtual medicine, and how the advantages of virtual medicine outweigh the shortcomings of virtual medicine. He provides insight on how he navigates behavior change with his patients and the importance of a patient’s relationship with their doctor. Moreover, Dr. Alec hones in on the lack of nutrition education in traditional medicine and his top tip to getting started with addressing your nutrition journey to more optimal health! With a focus on the patient’s goal, Dr. Alec & Dr. Dom share why Steady MD provides a responsive and transparent platform to your healthcare journey. Dr. Alec shares his thoughts on the future of functional and virtual medicine, in relation to insurance, and Dr. Dom shares why he appreciates Dr. Alec and the Steady MD platform. Free Week of the Jen Health Membership: Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all currated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout! What You Will Learn In This Interview with Dr. Alec Weir: 2:28 – What is it that drove Dr. Alec’s journey? 3:42 – Why did Dr. Alec move into functional medicine 5:45 – How to become a functional medicine MD? 7:40 – What makes functional medicine different? 9:04 – How Dr. Alec helps navigate behavior change? 11:17 – The biggest barrier to virtual medicine: licensing in different states 12:04 – How virtual capacity affects access to care? 14:03 – What is the appropriate relationship between doctor and patient? 17:47 – Is nutrition a focus in medicine? 20:15 – Where do you start with nutrition? 23:18 – Why Steady MD? 25:48 – Why did Dr. Dom choose Dr. Alec to be his functional medicine doctor? 28:49 – Transparency, connection, and convenience with Steady MD. About Dr. Alec Weir Alec Weir, MD is a primary care and functional medicine provider with SteadyMD. Providing personalized healthcare to patients across the country. Items mentioned: Dr. Alec's profile on SteadyMD Dr. Alec's Instagram To learn more about Dr. Alec and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/143 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Do you really have bad posture? What even is posture? DocJen and Dr. Dom break down the misconceptions around posture and unveil the truths around how posture is dynamic rather than a static hold. With an overarching emphasis on the act of moving frequently, they preach the message that the “best” posture is the next posture. Throughout the episode, they shift the narrative around addressing posture into addressing resting state, explaining the mechanism behind why you tend to resort to a particular resting position. They discuss the role the brain and the nervous system play in resting posture, as well as the contemporary findings research presents on posture. Moreover, DocJen and Dr. Dom discuss cueing posture and how attempting to hold a certain position may be disrupting the breath and pressures systems within the body, exacerbating threat signals perceived by the body and brain, and potential consequences of this disruption. Finally, they address their opinions on the use of tools to “correct” posture and provide their biggest tips in finding a more optimal resting state for YOUR body. Tune in to learn all about posture! Free Week of the Jen Health Membership: Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all currated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout! What You Will Learn In This PT Pearl: 2:31 – What is Posture? 5:35 – Posture & feeling safe 7:45 – Does squeezing your butt and tighten the core give you perfect posture? 6:27 – Common presentations of posture 10:12 – Do you suck your belly in? 11:40 – Movement & Posture 13:52 – How to find your resting state 15:59 – Research on posture 18:06 – Identifying the root cause of your pain? 20:01 – The truth is there's no one perfect or bad posture 20:40 – Are adjustments fixing your posture? 25:15 – Dr. Dom's biggest tip 26:55 – Dr. Jen's biggest tip To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://youtube.com/watch/ For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/142 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Do you practice yoga? Practice yoga and still have pain? Stretching out aches and pains? Mesmerized by all the yogic shapes? Hiro discusses his method of bridging science and anatomy with the spirituality of Yoga. Hiro paves the path of his journey from Ashtanga Yoga to his current Body Smart Yoga method. He shares his story with pain arising after years of the Ashtanga practice and how he changed his pain game by introducing active stretching, engagement, and strength to his practice. Throughout the episode, Hiro discusses how mobility and different types of engaged stretching can allow safe access into different postures, can rid your pain, and how strength is not just built in the gym. He addresses the trending wave of focus on aesthetics and shapes in yoga, and how that distracts from respecting anatomical differences. Using the example of pigeon pose, Hiro dives into the urge of needing to stretch unstable, weak, and tight muscles and how that may be non-optimal as increased stretching shifts into targetting passive structures (joints and ligaments) in the body. Through this example, Hiro highlights the importance of integration of flexibility and strength, and how this practice of mobility can help hyper and hypo-mobility individuals. Finally, Hiro shares his programs and challenges that outline the drills, exercises, and knowledge that got him out of pain. Let’s take a deep dive into practicing yoga without pain! Free Week of the Jen Health Membership: Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all currated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout! What You Will Learn In This Interview with Hiro 3:45 – Is Yoga Spiritual or Science? 6:00 – Is Yoga all about aesthetics? 7:30 – Why may Yoga be bringing up your pain points again? 9:55 – How to address anatomical differences when approaching the general public 12:15 – Is Yoga about making the shapes? 15:05 – Should you be forcing pigeon pose & how to perform it safely 23:21 – The importance of integration, strength, and mobility 27:30 – When did Body Smart Yoga evolve? 35:10 – Why does Body Smart Yoga help hypermobility? 38:37 – Perks of Hiro's Hip Program 41:49 – What Hiro's challenge entails 44:13 – How to learn more with Hiro About Hiro Hiro Landazuri always knew he wanted to heal others from a young age. He began teaching yoga in 2007 while pursuing a dual master's degree in medical pharmacology and cardiopulmonary surgery. Body Smart Yoga is meant to empower his students to find a deeper awareness of their physical and emotional bodies through detailed self-assessment and injury prevention. Items mentioned: Hiro’s Website Hiro’s Hip Program Hiro’s Instagram To learn more about Hiro and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/141 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Diagnosed with Arthritis? Worried about Arthritis? DocJen & Dr. Dom hone in on stripping away the fear that is associated with the Arthritis diagnosis. They touch base with 7 different types of Arthritis, what is happening within the body respectively, and emphasize the importance of moving. They provide insight into how to continue to move within what is tolerable within your body and the importance of looking at the body systemically and how to combat systemic and chronic inflammation. Finally, DocJen & Dr Dom mention their favorite tips on how cold and hot therapy may be beneficial, the power of breath in modulating the nervous system to navigate chronic inflammation, and how to address your stressors! Let’s take a deep dive into the world of Arthritis and how you can begin to let that fear go! Free Week of the Jen Health Membership: Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all currated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout! What You Will Learn In This PT Pearl: 3:14 – What is Arthritis? 4:00 – Don't be afraid of Arthritis 6:00 – Osteoarthritis 8:37 – Should you stop moving if you have Arthritis? 9:55 – Spondylitis 14:35 – Autoimmune Arthritis 16:15 – Rheumatoid Arthritis 20:48 – Junior Rheumatoid Arthritis 23:06 – Juvenile Arthritis 23:27 – Psoriatic Arthritis 24:19 – Reactive Arthritis 24:40 – Looking systemically for Arthritis 30:49 – Cold & Hot therapy for Arthritis 32:57 – Stressors 36:30 – Ask Questions! 34:21 – Dr. Dom’s Takeaway To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://youtube.com/watch/ For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/140 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

#womenarenotsmallmen Wondering how to optimize your nutrition & training as a female? Lost a period? Struggling to figure out nutrition and exercise around menopause? Dr. Stacy Sims dives deep into hormones, nutritional, and training considerations during the menstruating phase of life, perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause. Dr. Stacy explains Amenorrhea, nutritional considerations during and post-exercise, and how eating times affect hormones and recovery. Dr. Stacy deciphers nutrition and training considerations throughout the different phases of the menstrual cycle and her top recommendations to getting your period back. Then, Dr. Stacy dives into the fad trends women should avoid, and research generalizability and transferability to women. She discusses the world of menopause and how hormonal changes affect physiological metrics like heart rate, respiratory rate, sleep, lean muscle mass, bone density, mood, and overall health. In spite of these physiological metrics, Dr. Stacy addresses optimizing recovery before, during, and after menopause. Finally, she provides a brief scope into the current research she is undergoing with WHOOP. Learn about nutrition and training from puberty to menopause. Dr Stacey's Microlearning Courses: Get 20% Off Dr Stacy’s Microlearning courses that launch July 7th with code OPTIMAL! Link to get free Hydration cheat sheet and get on the Microlearning Waitlist Use code OPTIMAL and purchase any of the Microlearning Vivobarefoot Shoe Discount: Our foundations are everything. Our feet are everything. Our feet are our base of support and affect everything up the chain! A study revealed a 60% increase in foot strength from 6 months of wearing VivoBarefoot shoes. Strengthen your feet to build more resilience and move more with Vivo Barefoot! Use code TOB to get 15% off! What You Will Learn In This Interview with Dr. Stacy Sims: 5:10 – Dr. Stacy's Passion 6:46 – Why may your menstrual period stop? 8:39 – Why eating at the right time matters 10:44 – What women should eat post-training? 14:39 – Nutritional & training changes during the menstrual cycle 18:40 – Recommendations to get your period back? 26:30 – Why research from a clinical population is not transferable 28:53 – Popular trends women should stay away from 37:02 – Premenopause, perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause 34:59 – Changed during Menopause 35;55 – Perimenopause Training 37:09 – Peri-menopause Nutrition 38:28 – Your doctor’s guideline for post-menopause may not be correct 40:33 – Training post-menopause 43:45 – Dr. Stacy’s study on recovery with contraceptive pills 49:04 – Learn more with Dr. Stacy About Dr Stacy Sims Stacy T. Sims, Ph.D., is an applied researcher, innovator, and entrepreneur in human performance, specifically sex differences in training, nutrition, and environmental conditions. Prior to being launched into the industry, she served as an exercise physiologist and nutrition scientist at Stanford University. Her contributions to the international research environment and the sports nutrition industry have established a new niche in sports nutrition; and established her reputation as the expert in sex differences in training, nutrition, and health. She is a regularly featured speaker at professional and academic conferences and is a senior researcher. To learn more about Dr. Stacy and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/139 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is your pain caused by your misaligned kneecap? Wondering if it matters that your patella appears misaligned? Unsure if you have patella tracking? Let’s take a deep dive into patella (kneecap) tracking! Firstly, DocJen & Dr.Dom explains patellofemoral syndrome and how it may relate to patella tracking, providing insight into why physical therapists may focus on the appearance of structures as a guide to diagnosing. They discuss if taping or manual therapy actually puts the kneecap back into alignment, the extent to which the appearance of structure actually matters, and the anatomy and physiology surrounding the patella. They provide insight into how symptoms can rise with patella tracking, how to begin addressing your patella tracking, and how to focus on function over appearance. Finally, they address the VMO muscle and explain how it integrates with the rehabilitation of patella tracking-related issues. Let’s tune in! Genius Mobility Supplement We also mention the GeniusMobility Supplement in this episode. In this Genius x DocJen collaboration, the supplement contains all-natural ingredients with superfoods known to have joint supportive, stress balancing, and anti-inflammatory effects based on research-based dosing. With one scoop of the supplement, containing Ashwagandha, Nuclear Eggshell Membrane, Antioxidant-Rich Fruits, Vitamin D & K2, and Curcumin, you will be on your way to replenished and optimally functioning joints! Dose your joints with the nutrients it needs to soothe pain and move with ease. What You Will Learn In This PT Pearl: 2:29 – What is Patellofemoral Syndrome (Check out Episode 10 to learn more) 3:14 – Why physical therapists look at the structure of the body 5:29 – Does tape fix patella tracking 9:08 – How the patella tracks 9:47 – Does DocJen have pain with her patellar tracking 10:52 – To what degree do biomechanics and structural form matter? 12:07 – What about patella tracking would be causing you pain? 15:42 – Is it bad if the kneecap is not tracking perfectly 17:38 – Changes to feel something different at the knee 18:00 – What is the VMO muscle & should you train it for patella tracking? 21:02 – Is taping pulling your kneecap back in space? 23:43 – What do manual techniques help with 25:21 – What you need to do to optimize your rehabilitation journey 27:18 – How to start addressing your patella-tracking 30:28 – How The Optimal Body Membership can help! 34:21 – Dr. Dom’s Takeaway To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://youtube.com/watch/ For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/138 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is cupping worth the hype? Curious to learn about cupping? Dr. Chris Daprato walks us through the path of his journey to cupping and where his passion stemmed from. Soon after, he discusses his experience with cupping and why pairing movement with cupping changed the game for him. He deciphers the science behind cupping, addressing range of motion, blood circulation, and fascial lubrication. Then, Dr. Chris explains the term ‘fascial decompression,’ and how cupping can pull in fascial slings. Furthermore, he debunks myths around cup coloration, the ultimate goal of cupping, and his best tips on how to perform cupping on yourself. He provides insight on the self-starter cup kit and the difference between heat and non-heat cups. Tune in to learn all about the science and intention behind cupping. What You Will Learn In This Interview with Dr. Chris Daprato 2:35 – What makes Dr. Chris passionate about cupping 8:05 – Chris’s experience with cupping 9:14 – Movement with cupping or not? 10:52 – Science behind cupping 14:07 – Cupping & range of motion 16:57 – Does cupping release the fascia/ decompress the tissue? 22:06 – What does pulling of the muscles do in the body? 25:24 – Does the colour of your cup mark dictate the health of your tissue? 29:13 – Goal of cupping & how you know its effective 33:08 – Can you cup on yourself and how do you know what movements to pair with cupping? 36:52 – Heat Cups vs Non-heat Cups 37:57 – Find more about Chris or How to get your kit About Dr Chris DaPrato Dr. DaPrato currently holds an Associate Professor Faculty appointment at the UC San Francisco School of Medicine Mission Bay Campus, treating all spectrums of sports and orthopedics. He teaches in the DPT program in the areas of Advanced Exercise Prescription, Manual Therapy, Sports Medicine and also holds a joint appointment in the Department of Orthopedics. Prior to his current position, he was a Team Physical Therapist for the University of California Golden Bears treating Div. 1 NCAA and professional athletes in their sports medicine department, and a previous Clinic Director for Physiotherapy Associates in the Denver area. He is a strong proponent and educator for manual therapy in sports orthopedics and has specialized in HVLATs, Muscle Energy, and functional manual therapy. He received his BS in Human Physiology, his Masters in Physical Therapy from Long Beach, and his Doctorate from Temple University. His approach to patient care also encompasses advanced level strength and conditioning, and received his CSCS through the NSCA, and certified as a Performance Enhancement Specialist from the National Academy of Sports Medicine. Items Mentioned Cup Therapy Website What The Cup Podcast To learn more about Dr. Chris and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/137 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Love to use a massage gun? Curious about the hype around them? Tune in to learn all about what the massage gun is and the mechanism behind its function put simply. Debunking myths, DocJen & Dr. Dom explain the role massage guns play in manipulating the fascia, breaking down adhered tissue, and range of motion. They describe how the pressure feedback massage guns provide affects the fascia through hyaluronic acid and its benefits. They discuss the importance of getting to the root cause of your symptoms, whether or not massage guns should be used during a warm-up, an actual workout session, or one repetition, or an explosive training session. Finally, they discuss comprehending the type of tool you’re using and its intentions, speaking about their preferences with the Tune-Up Fitness Balls. Tune in to learn all about the massage gun. Free Week of the Jen Health Membership: Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all currated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout! What You Will Learn In This PT Pearl: 1:52 – What is a massage gun? 2:44 – How do massage guns actually work? The truth. 5:15 – How is range of motion increased by massage guns? 7:39– Pressure changes & fascia 9:22 – Why getting to the root cause matters 10:59 – Should massage guns be used as a warm-up? 13:30 – Tune-Up fitness tools bs Massage Guns 14:57 – Should massage guns be used for one-repetition maximum testing or explosive training? 16:03 – Should massage guns be used during a workout? To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://youtube.com/watch/ For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/136 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is pain in the head? Finding pain flare up at random times? Curious about current perspectives on pain? “Pain is an experience and perception,” says Dr. Kyle, co-founder of Integrated Kinetic Neurology. Dr. Kyle unpacks the truths around pain and deciphers the mechanisms behind how the pain experience is elicited. With an emphasis on survival and protection, Dr. Kyle discusses 2 reasons why revisiting pain may occur and how they may relate to stress, and the concept of the path of least resistance. Then, he provides his insights on the dichotomy between pain from the body versus pain from the brain. In doing so, he explains how pain perception may be molded by stress threshold and 2 ways to address it. Moreover, Dr. Kyle provides 2 ways to build resilience in the nervous system, speaking to the power of breathing and novel movements. He shares his go-to breathwork activity and why breathing may be your first line to saving your pain, through integrated understandings between neurology & and biochemistry, He briefly discusses hyperventilation, the importance of nasal breathing, the role neural tricks play in rehabbing chronicity, and how to create lasting change within the nervous system. Finally, he addresses the role tools can play in optimizing an individual’s rehabilitation journey and the role touch plays in the brain’s internal map of the body. Tune in to re-discover your knowledge around pain with Dr. Kyle. What You Will Learn In This Interview with Dr. Kyle Paxton 3:21 – What is Integrated Kinetic Neurology? 6:32 – What is Pain Science? 10:10 – How to address revisiting pains? 13:28 –Is your pain from your body or brain? 20:18 – Types of breathwork to feel shifts in the body 22:38 – Why breathing can save your pain 27:38 – Is the hyper around neuro-tricks worth it? 32:38 – Should we be using tools for pain? 36:10 – Why touch may help you feel better 41:25 – Learning more about Integrated Kinetic Neurology About Dr Kyle Paxton Dr. Kyle earned both his bachelor's in exercise science and doctor of physical therapy degree up in western NY and now lives in Tampa, FL. He is the Co-Founder of Integrated Kinetic Neurology a continuing education company that focuses on educating providers on how neuroscience influences our movement and pain experience. Dr. Kyle also owns Performance Care Clinics which are physical therapy practices in the DC area and FL and Tampa Composition Testing. Items mentioned: Integrated Kinetic Neurology Website Integrated Kinetic Neurology Instagram To learn more about Dr. Karl and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/135 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Feeling continual ankle instability? Constantly getting ankle injuries? Overall weak ankles? You're not alone. DocJen & Dr. Dom present the literature and statistics on the prevalence of chronic instability and preditors of chronic instability. Furthermore, they explain the anatomy of the ankle and the different types of ankle sprains that can occur. They dive into how grades are determined, symptoms and tests that indicate chronic ankle instability, and how mechanical and functional instability looks like with ankle instability. Finally, they provide a real-life perspective to how psychology can influence your movement patterns or rate of re-injury, as well as, provide you with the steps and tools to rehabilitate your or prevent chronic ankle sprains. To learn how to re-pattern and re-coordinate your ankles to prevent spraining your ankle again, tune in! Vivobarefoot Shoe Discount: ALERT: TOB is now the 15% off code How may VivoBarefoot shoes help you with chronic ankle sprains? Through building strength in the foot and teaching the foot to accommodate your own body! A study showed a 60% increase in foot strength by wearing VivoBarefoot shoes for 6 months consistently, and you a little over 3 months to return your shoes. Try them out and invest in your health. Use code 'TOB' to get 15% off! What You Will Learn In This PT Pearl: 3:11 – Types of Ankle sprains 4:00 – Grading for Ankle Sprains 4:28 – Prevalence & Etiology 6:07 – Risk factors 7:58 – How does it go from acute stag to chronic stage 9:41 – Symptoms that indicate chronic ankle instability 10:20 – Tests for Chronic Ankle Instability 13:33 – Different types of instability 15:30 – What to do if you are hypermobile 15:52 – Steps to address your chronic instability 17:29 – Psychological influence with chronic ankle sprains 18:00 – The biggest focus of your rehabilitation journey To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://youtube.com/watch/ For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/134 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Struggling to release food restrictions? Wanting to commit to a challenge to kickstart your journey, but feel like you can’t commit? Curious about simple nutritional guidelines to consider? Cara deciphers nutrition and provides insight into changing the focus around food restriction, yet appealing to the control food restrictors desire. After a dive into Cara’s passion, her motivations, education, and what motivated her to pursue nutrition, Cara provides simple nutrition principles and explains the typical structure of her challenges. Through an elimination and reintroduction phase, Cara presents an efficient technique to understand the types of foods that are optimal for you. Furthermore, Cara re-defines success, as her challenges follow a no-fail system, and the benefits of food-logging, Moreover, she discusses season diet and two factors that make eating according to season advantageous, providing examples and tips to introducing higher vegetable intakes to children. Let’s dive in! Starting September 7th is the Fall Back To Health challenge with certified nutritionist, Cara Clark, and functional medicine expert. Dr. Kaisa Coppola, DC. If you're feeling the need to re-commit or tired of feeling the way you're feeling with "winging" your meals, feeling bloated or fatigued after meals, or unable to fit in nutritious meals and keep with your routine with kids, this challenge is for you. With an overarching focus on hormone health, You can take a quick assessment to have the team tailor the challenge for you and will be getting meal plans, meal ideas, food exchange ideas and grocery lists, community, structure, logging systems, and education on optimizing your nutrition and hormone health. Join the Fall Back To Health challenge here! What You Will Learn In This Interview with Cara Clark 3:43 – What drove Cara to her expertise? 6:31 – What motivated Cara to pursue nutrition 13:25 – How can we begin education earlier 15:56 – Clara’s nutrition guidelines 19:39 – Cara’s challenges 25:15 – Food Logging 26:04 – Clara’s fall back to health challenges 28:45 – How to address not feeling so great when making a change 32:35 – How to get yourself to start a challenge 34:31 – Seasonal Diet 37:31 – Key foods for different vegetables 40:02 – Ho to teach kids why we need to eat colors 43:35 – Learn more with Cara About Cara Clark Cara Clark is the owner and primary Certified Nutritionist of Cara Clark Nutrition. Cara works with individuals and groups to promote overall health and to manage a wide range of nutrition-related issues. With a ‘non-dieting approach, she has helped clients manage weight, energy, performance, diabetes, thyroid-related disease, allergies, eating disorders, and more. Her goal is to expose as many people as possible to optimal health for elite performance, and she is very sensitive to the needs of each individual client as a mother to four daughters. To learn more about Cara and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://www.docjenfit.com/podcast/episode133/ Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Diagnosed with IT Band Syndrome? Feeling pain on the outside of the knee? Rolling out your IT band? DocJen & Dr. Dom describes the anatomy of the IT bands, the muscles that connect into, and why it is said to be a “friction injury.” They discuss whether or not foam rolling is beneficial, the mechanism behind foam rolling, and how to optimize its use. Then, they explain the potential causes of feeling ITB syndrome-related symptoms, and how you can begin to address the root cause issue. After discussing 3 was to address ITB Syndrome, they provide insight into why it is common amongst runners and the ultimate importance of building strong internal foundations. Keep activating and exploring! Vivobarefoot Shoe Discount: ALERT: TOB is now the 15% off code Feeling extra warm this summer? What's your message to our earth. VivoBarefoot is all about connection. As much as nature's natural terrains are optimal for our feet, their purpose is to use the needle in how we treat the environment, our earth, and utilize its resources. Join the Letters To The Earth movement below to become more aware of respecting the earth's gifts and saving our home! While you're at it, you can further support this movement by purchasing VivoBarefoot shoes. Use code 'TOB' to get a 15% off discount! What You Will Learn In This PT Pearl: 2:31 – What is the IT Band 4;38 – Why might you be feeling pain 5:46 – How to fix it 7:06 – Should you foam roll? 7:54 – Why might foam rolling be ineffective? 8:37 – Where to foam roll if you’re going to do it 10:44 – When you may be feeling a rubbing/friction/tight sensation 11:38 – How to address your ITB 15:03 – The role breathwork plays with ITB syndrome 16:25 – Why is it common amongst runners 17:09 – Addressing internal over external To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://youtube.com/watch/ For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/132 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Feel like your chronic pain is never-ending? Completely ignoring your emotions? Wondering why you can’t quite let go of struggling past experiences? Dr. Liz Letchford, Athletic Trainer with a P.h.D in Kinesiology, uncovers the current perspectives on how trauma impacts pain and performance. Through a holistic health approach, Dr. Liz speaks to the importance of staying curious, honing in on how emotions and past traumas can mold our movement patterns and persistent pains. Through a simple explanation of the mechanism, highlighting the nervous system, Dr. Liz shares an empowering story of her work with a client and how they found newfound strength after addressing their hidden and deep-rooted trauma. Nonetheless, Dr. Liz speaks to common egoistic characteristics in clinicians, and the need to allow space for clients to be listened to as the starting point to any rehab process. Finally, she provides her top tips to understanding if your pain has a deeper emotional root cause, and what to do, because “it likely does.” Step up your rehab game and get back to optimal health Dr. Liz! Paleovalley Discount: Do you know all the ingredients labeled at the back of your go-to snack? In this episode, PaleoValley is mentioned. Containing 100% grass-fed beef with a higher omega 3:6 ratio, antioxidant-rich foods, and some of the best anti-inflammatory whole food ingredients, PaleoValley has got your sweet or savory tastebuds covered with beef sticks or protein bars. Use code ‘OPTIMAL‘ to get 15% off. What You Will Learn In This Interview with Dr. Liz 4:23 – What drew Dr. Liz to helping people 5:55 – Differences between Athletic Training Certified & Physical therapy 9:31 – Origins of Liz’s passions 14:45 – How did Liz’s P.h.D Impact her 20:43 – Current perspectives on bodily responses to emotions. 25:31 – Encouraging & staying curious about the deeper root cause of pain 31:38 – Clinicians & their ego 35:32 – Impact of Trauma 39:22 – How emotion manifests through movement 42:02 – How to recognize if your pain has a deeper emotional root cause. 43:38 – Learn more with Dr. Liz About Dr. Liz: Dr. Liz Letchford is an Athletic Trainer and strength coach who takes a holistic approach to improve mechanics, posture, and pain. With a Ph.D. in Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Science, her research interests focus on injury risk reduction and the relationship between biomechanics and human emotion. She is the creator of The Release, a self-massage and movement experience designed to help students get out of their heads and into their bodies. Liz is a founding coach for Tonal, a connected fitness company where she is also part of the research and innovation team. Items mentioned: Dr. Liz’s Release Method Dr. Liz’s Instagram Dr. Liz’s Website To learn more about Dr.Liz and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/131 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Diagnosed with Piriformis Syndrome? Is it actually your Piriformis causing you pain? The victim, your piriformis that tends to get much of the blame, is not always the culprit. DocJen & Dr. Dom take a deep dive into the anatomy of the Piriformis, its function, and how it may be affected by the way it coordinates with or how the 7 other external rotator muscles may be affecting the surrounding nerve endings. As a diagnosis related to the sciatic nerve, they describe what is happening in the body and how sciatica-like symptoms may be appearing when diagnosed with piriformis syndrome. Using research to gain a broader perspective on the diagnosis, they provide their step-by-step process to approaching your piriformis syndrome, emphasizing your resetting and habitual position and the relationship between your feet, knees, hips, and core or respiratory system. By explaining the ineffectiveness of smashing or stretching into your piriformis, they provide a more effective and optimal way of getting to the root cause and addressing the system as a whole. Kick-off your shoes and learn all about the Piriformis syndrome! Free Week of the Jen Health Membership: Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all currated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout! What You Will Learn In This PT Pearl: 1:07 – Synopsis of the Piriformis Syndrome 2:18 – Anatomy of the Piriformis 4:28 – Should you stretch or smash into the Piriformis? 5:59 – Research on Piriformis Syndrome 6:56 – Addressing the root cause of your Piriformis symptoms 8.36 – How your feet position affects hip mobility 10:26 – What stretches & manipulations are actually doing 12:30 – Your guide to addressing your Piriformis symptoms To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://youtube.com/watch/ For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/130 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Struggling with mindset? Wondering how language affects mindset? Curious to dive deeper within yourself? Mike Aidala, a health and wellness expert, explores mindset in its whole capacity. With a look into his background, Mike shares his “addiction” to yoga and the mental space it provided him in helping him perform better with his lifting. He leads by example, setting the example of this dualism in his movement practice, opening up the freedom to embrace all schools of movement. Furthermore, he explains his mind-first approach to setting up goals, and how shifting your language to create more choice can make all the difference. His “shouldfast” techniques drop the judgment, bring more awareness, and allows individuals to be more present with their choices. Then, Mike unveils his journey to riding the wave of vulnerability. He provides his top tips for addressing physical manifestations of emotions and how to combat the fears and repercussions that come with failure. Finally, he offers his top recommendations on how to start diving into yourself. Let’s dive into all things mindset. Free Week of the Jen Health Membership: Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all currated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout! What You Will Learn In This Interview with Mike 3:30 – Mike’s Background 5:51 – Addiction to the athletic mindset (lifting + yoga) 7:15 – Opening your movement practices to find mind balance 8:23 – How to approach the mind in setting up goals 11:16 – Shifting language to create choice instead of judgment 12:51 – The “shouldfast:” how to implement language shifts 16:06 – The power of presence 17:13 – How did Mike navigate vulnerability? 21:35 – How emotions physically manifest 25:46 – How Mike approaches his client’s failure 30:26 – How to start diving into yourself: gratitude & hot baths 33:19 – Learn more with Mike About Mike Aidala: Mike Aidala is a leading health and wellness expert who has been mentioned in: Men's Journal, GQ, AskMen, Gear Patrol, Well+Good, PopSugar, Harper's Bazaar, Valet Magazine, and more. He is one of the top personal coaches in America and has been coaching and guiding others for over 15 years. Mike's various programs are for individuals who want to establish an enhanced, more familiar relationship with their body and mind. Using a range of modalities, Mike creates personalized programs to build stability, flexibility, and strength for efficient, effective life control. You will learn to pay attention as you move through the world, cultivating an awareness that will lead to a healthy and happy life! Items mentioned in this episode: Mike‘s Website Mike’s Handstand Course To learn more about Mike and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/129 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Got an ACL Injury? Considering surgery? DocJen & Dr. Dom address it all in this PT Pearl. After describing the anatomy and function of the ACL, they explain the different degrees of the ACL injury and the tests that are used to diagnose an ACL injury. They name the signs and symptoms associated with an ACL injury and who is at higher risk. Then, they take a deep dive into surgery. Debunking the common misconception around absolutely no stability around the knee with a torn ACL, they explain what the ACL reconstructive surgery consists of and re-shape the narrative around ACL and surgery. With an overarching emphasis on function, they provide insight into the importance of proprioception and strength in and around the knee, the different components of stability around a joint, and why function is so important for ACL rehabilitation. They address laxity at the knee with no ACL, the association between ACL and Knee Osteoarthritis, and the controversy around Knee valgus. Finally, DocJen & Dr. Dom gift you with the ways you can begin to approach your ACL injury, empowering you with knowledge around joint proprioception, muscular coordination, and neurological control in optimizing your rehabilitation, regardless of if you get surgery or not. Tune in! Vivobarefoot Shoe Discount: Foundations. Our feet are our base of support, our foundations. DocJen & Dr. Dom live in their VivoBarefoot shoes. No matter what your foot looks like, VivoBarefoot shoes will help your feet return to optimal function and train that joint sense, coordination, control, and strength we have been honing in on in this PT Pearl. With 100 days to return the shoe, give your feet time to transition and adapt in style. Use code ‘TOB’ to get 15% off! What You Will Learn In This PT Pearl: 2:08 – ACL Anatomy. 3:27 – Degrees of ACL Injury 4:20 – Tests to determine ACL Injury 5:07 – Signs & Symptoms 5:55 – Who is at higher risk? 7:28 – ACL Reconstruction Surgery - what’s the process? 10:12 – The literature on surgery vs PT, and associations with Knee OA 12:28 – Addressing the laxity associated with torn ACL 13:27 – Components of stability 14:03 – Prevalence of Re-injury 16:54 – Why Function is so Important 20:12 – Allow the knees to cave in or not? 22:37 – Your ACL Rehab Guide 26:08 – Get your own Physical Therapist! To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://youtube.com/watch/ For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/128 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Stuck in a cycle to lose weight to try and fit into a norm? Have doctors been weight-shaming you? Body Positivity. It is a hot topic. But, what does it really encompass? Dr. Lisa Folden sets us off on her journey with diet culture that started as early as 12 years old! She speaks about when her perspectives started shifting and how we can change the narrative behind diet labels in the next generation. She describes how you can determine what “healthy” is and how healthcare providers or coaches can preach health at every size while talking about sensitive topics (e.g optimal diet, movement…). Moreover, Dr. Lisa takes a deep dive into her best tips to finding food freedom and setting up an environment that respects your child’s intuitive eating. She also, explains how you can refocus your health goals, the stigmas she still faces, how you can actually get to body positivity. A larger body doesn’t equate to being unhealthy. It’s the behaviors, lifestyle, awareness, and intention that matter. Learn how to optimize your health at any size with Dr. Lisa Folden! Free Week of the Jen Health Membership: Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all currated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout! What You Will Learn In This Interview with Dr. Lisa 2:59 – Lisa’s story & diet culture 5:36 – When did Lisa’s perspective on diet culture shift? 7:31 – Changing the diet label for the next generation 10:43 – How do you determine what healthy is? 12:58 – Sensitive topics & still preaching for health at every size. 16:37 – Steps to getting to food freedom 23:36 – Guiding children to be more intuitive 25:36 – Reframing labels & modelling behavior as parents 28:43 – Re-focusing your goals 32:07 – Has Lisa faced stigmas? 36:55 – How do you get to body positivity? 41:33 – Learn more with Dr. Lisa About Dr. Lisa: Dr. Lisa N. Folden is a licensed physical therapist, mom-focused health coach and the owner of Healthy Phit Physical Therapy & Wellness Consultants in Charlotte, NC. As a body positive, women’s health expert and health at every size (HAES) ambassador, Dr. Folden assists women seeking a healthier lifestyle by guiding their wellness choices through organization, planning strategies and holistic goal setting. Additionally, Dr. Lisa has recently concentrated her efforts to further advance the field of physical therapy by examining the influence of weight stigma and bias in healthcare and PT. Items mentioned in this episode: Dr. Lisa's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthyphit/ Dr. Lisa's Website: https://www.healthyphit.com/ To learn more about Dr. Lisa and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/127 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Does KT Tape really work? What is the hype around it? Perhaps, you swear by it? Find out what is truly happening in the body when you layer on that elastic tape. DocJen & Dr. Dom debunk common misconceptions associated with Elastic tape and provide insight into how you can use it to your advantage. Ultimately, Elastic tape is an incredibly low-risk product to use, but intention and awareness are everything. If you love your Elastic tape or are curious about it, this episode covers the truths about what Elastic Tape is truly doing. Let’s dive in! PaleoValley Discount: What is the one snack DocJen & Dr. Dom have stuck with? PaleoValley! It is full of great ingredients that you can pronounce and know. That way, you have full control of what is going into your body without the taste being compromised. PaleoValley has got sweet-lovers covered with their complete protein bars, and savory lovers with their complete protein 100% grass-fed beef jerky. Get 20% off your purchase, using code ‘OPTIMAL’ at checkout. What You Will Learn In This PT Pearl: 2:54 – What is Elastic Tape doing?. 5:56 – Are elastic tapes holding something in place? 8:17 – A psychological experience with Elastic †ape 11:12 – Compression & Perception of pain 12:42 – Research on Joint Sense 17:07 – Do Elastic Tapes have a physiological effect? To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://youtube.com/watch/ For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/126 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Curious about the Wine Industry? How about drinking wine that actually benefits your health? Is commercial different from natural different from organic? Todd White, Founder of Dry Farm Wines, deciphers the wine industry. With a passion to produce wine that is better for health and has better taste, Todd White, stumbled upon a passion to create premium health qualified wine that serves pure, natural, and lab-tested wine to ensure they are sugar-free, lower sulfates, and lower alcohol. Todd White speaks into the lack of transparency in the wine industry and its detrimental effects on health. He explores the topics of flavor palates and how changes occur depending on your diet. As he praises lighter wine, he takes a deep dive into how the commercial, natural, and organic labels differ, the FDA approval of additives, and how to choose your wine based on well-sourced grapes. After an evaluative exploration of irrigation and grapes, he provides insight into the ranking systems within the wine industry, and how to choose a healthier wine! Tune in and pick your best wine! Dry Farm Wines: We mention Dry Farm Wines in this episode. Dr. Jen & Dr. Dom love to enjoy a little bit of wine now and then, and they love Dry Farm Wine! They use organic grapes, practice regenerative agriculture, and test every bottle for herbicides and pesticides to produce vibrant, fresh, and bright wine. Buy one get one for just one extra penny! What You Will Learn In This Interview with Todd White 2:34 – Transparency in the Wine Business 5:47 – Natural vs Conventional vs Organic Wines 11:21 – What to look for when sourcing grapes 19:02 – Ranking & Criteria Systems 25:25 – How to determine the most healthful wine. 29:47 – Perks of wines from farmers markets About Todd White: Today, after 15 years in the wine business, his life is dedicated to educating and helping people make better choices about food, nutrition, and how they think about consuming alcohol. As the founder of Dry Farm Wines, a writer, speaker, and a leader in the organic/Natural Wine movement, he has widely educated communities on conscious consumption. Todd is deeply passionate about bringing people together to share love and laughter through Natural Wine. Dry Farm Wines sources pure Natural Wines and lab tests them to ensure each bottle is sugar-free (0-0.15g per glass), lower in sulfites, and lower in alcohol (under 12.5% alc/vol). The wines are friendly to low carb, Paleo, ketogenic, and low sugar diets. Dry Farm Wines is dedicated to supporting small natural growers, currently sourcing from 600 family farmers who preserve 87,000 acres of organic vineyards and save 1.4 billion gallons of water annually by not irrigating their vines. Items mentioned in this episode Dry Farm Wines Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dryfarmwines/ Dry Farm Wines Website: https://www.dryfarmwines.com/ To learn more about Todd White and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/125 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Diagnosed with a herniated disc? DocJen & Dr. Dom breaks it all down for you! Debunking the common messaging we hear about bulging discs, DocJen & Dr. Dom provide you the hopeful perspective you need to hear. With a strong emphasis on adaptability, they mold the conversation around function, instead of structure, through research and their client experience. Through a brief and simplistic explanation of modern pain science, DocJen & Dr. Dom moves past the stereotypes associated with disc herniations, and talk into how you can adapt back into your optimally functioning body! Let’s debunk the misconceptions around herniated discs! 15% OFF Vivobarefoot Shoes! Our foundations are everything. Our feet are everything. Our feet are our base of support and affect everything up the chain! A study revealed a 60% increase in foot strength from 6 months of wearing VivoBarefoot shoes. Strengthen your feet to build more resilience and move more with Vivo Barefoot! Get 15% off using code ‘TOB’ at checkout. What You Will Learn In This PT Pearl: 3:30 – Taking fear away from diagnosis names 5:33 – Disc Anatomy 7:37 – Disc Diagnosis & MRI Scans 10:27 – Studies of Disc Herniations 12:28 – Adapting to Pain 14:57 – Function over Structure 15:55 – Never flex the spine? 18:17 – Diaphragmatic Breathing 22:25 – Flexion in the Spine is normal 23:55 – Mobility Method 26:49 – Don’t be afraid and keep exploring! To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://youtube.com/watch/ For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/124 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Curious about healthcare in America, Getting ready for pregnancy? Pregnant and want to optimize your delivery? Dr. Fraboni covers it all! We dive straight into the biases within the healthcare system, especially in the context of pregnancy and labor, and how competition tends to disrupt the power of collaboration between health providers. Dr. Frabroni explores his training with nurses and midwives, and how he has carried forward his early teachings to his practice today. With insufficient access to healthcare for certain groups in America, and increasing numbers of c-sections in the country, Dr. Frabroni discusses the importance of prenatal access with respect to fetal comorbidity, and the necessity of blending fetal monitoring approaches to optimize labor and the health of the baby. Furthermore, Dr. Fabroni offers his insights into the dichotomies between natural birth and c-sections and the importance of being open to respecting the patient’s needs, while educating. He discusses openness and education further in the context of delivery positioning, caloric intake, weight gain, exercises when pregnant, and pelvic floor therapy. Tune into all things pregnancy, prenatal, cross-pollination between providers, and working in hospitals! PaleoValley Discount: We mention PaleoValley in this episode. Dr. Jen & Dr. Dom swears by Paleovalley because they know everything that is in their beef sticks of superfood bars and that they can trust the ingredients list that has no vague labeling and words they understand! Stack them up in your pantry using ‘OPTIMAL’ to get a 15% discount at checkout! What You Will Learn In This Interview with Dr. Fraboni 4:05 – Biases in different providers 8:28 – Dr. Fabroni’s experience training with nurses & midwives 11:14 – The importance of collaboration 14:22 – Access to healthcare 17:43 – Foetal Monitoring 18:37 – Blending Foetal Approaches 22:15 – Scheduling c-sections 31:40 – Labor in a tub 38:11 – Issues with prenatal access 39:52 – Eating for two? 42:00 – Pregnancy & Exercise 46:57 – Dr. Fraboni’s biggest takeaways 48:52 – Pelvic Floor Therapy About Dr. Fraboni: Dr. Fraboni is an assistant clinical professor in the Department of Family Medicine and Community Health at the University of Minnesota, School of Medicine, Minneapolis campus, in Minneapolis, MN, and is a staff physician and Chief of Staff at M Health Fairview Northland Medical Center, in Princeton, MN. He received his Medical Degree from the University of Minnesota, School of Medicine, Minneapolis, and completed a residency in Family Medicine at St. Joseph’s Hospital, St. Paul, through the University of Minnesota’s Department of Family Medicine and Community Health. Dr. Fraboni also completed a 2 year surgical Fellowship in Maternal-Child Health at Brown University School of Medicine, Providence. To learn more about Dr. Fabroni and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/123 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Got Flat Feet? You’re in luck. DocJen & Dr. Dom unravel the misconceptions surrounding flat feet. Firstly, they explain the importance of focusing on function, rather than structure with more and more research, science is shifting away from scans, structure, and alignment indicating pain, injury, or dysfunction. They describe the different types of flat feet, their prevalence, and which of the diagnosis tends to be more commonly associated with symptoms. Briefly, DocJen & Dr. Dom discusses potential factors that could increase the risk of having symptoms associated with flat feet, and how the body may have adapted to foot positioning up the chain to accommodate flat feet as a consequence of the modern-day shoe. They provide their best tips to address your flat feet for optimal function, which includes more time spent barefoot and exercises to increase arch and foot awareness. Let’s dive in to find what’s optimal for your flat feet! Vivobarefoot Shoe Discount: It’s summer! As DocJen & Dr. Dom embarks on new adventures, traveling all around the US, they find themselves on a spontaneous hike more often than not. VivoBaefoot’s Tracker Forest esc has an extra grippy bottom and protects your feet against the rocky and varying terrains of nature, yet allows your feet to breathe and maneuver with ease. Get 15% off using code ‘TOB’ at checkout. What You Will Learn In This PT Pearl: 3:05 –What does having a flat foot mean? 7:23 – Flat Feet & Walking 8:20 – Compensatory Patterns 9:28 – Prevalence of different flat feet diagnosis 11:23 – Risk factors associated with symptomatic flat feet 12:58 – Signs & Symptoms 15:10 – Noticing tendencies within the body 15:40 – Shoes. 18:32 – Exercises to increase arch awareness 22:15 – Research and a PTs Role 23:23 – How VivoBarefoot shoes can help flat feet To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://youtube.com/watch/ For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/122 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dealing with persistent pain? Physical Therapists deal with them too! Kristi Barker walks the path of her passion for physical therapy and where her interests stemmed from. She explores the balance between educating on an online platform and her ability to physically manipulate in person. Through this, she explores the perks of simple education online and where her goals are heading in reaching a more global population. She unveils her experience with chronic pain recently, and how she navigated the repercussions of it. Finally, she discusses mindset as a priority in getting through recovery. Tune in to learn about what it takes to get to the other side of recovery! What You Will Learn In This Interview with Kristi Barker: 2:00 – Where did Kristi’s passion for PT come from? 4:07 – Private Practice 5:10 – Education with Patients 7:28 – Beauty in the basics. 8:50 – Are PTs prescribing too many exercises? 10:54 – Injury Prevention 12:35 – Kristi’s tips with persistent pain 16:49 – Kristi’s neck pain 19:57 – The no pain no gain mentality 20:58 – What helped Kristi with her neck pain? 24:58 – Positive self-talk 31:04 – Reach Rehab Mission About Kristi Barker Kristi Barker, Physical therapist from Saskatchewan Canada, runs instagram page @reach.rehab. She fell in love with weight lifting and vertical training when she played division 1 volleyball at University of Arkansas Little rock. She personally trained until she was accepted into the masters of Physical Therapy program and is now a physical therapist at a private practice clinic. Her overall goal is to inspire others to move and make physiotherapy accessible globally. Items mentioned in this episode include: Kristi’s Website: https://reach-rehab.com/ Kristi Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reach.rehab/ To learn more about Kristi and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/121 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Been diagnosed with a rotator cuff injury? Shoulder acting up? Dr. Jen & Dr. Dom decipher the different diagnoses you can get with rotator cuff injuries: tendonitis, tendinosis, shoulder impingements, and tearing of the rotator cuff. In doing so, they explain the anatomy of the shoulder, specifically honing on which diagnoses are most popular for each of the four rotator cuff muscles. They hone in on the research between MRI scans and asymptomatic individuals, ending the podcast with their best tips to addressing rotator-cuff-related injuries and what you can do to feel something different. Let’s take a deep dive into the rotator cuffs! Vivobarefoot Shoe Discount: We also mention VivoBarefoot in this episode. Dr. Jen & Dr, Dom are enjoying their summer hikes in their VivoBarefoot Trail Knits. This grippy, sturdy, yet adaptable shoe will help you expedite your next hike while providing the stimuli of the varied terrains to re-train integrity and strength back in your feet. Truly feel the beauties of nature under your feet, while keeping them safe with Vivo’s allowing your foot to feel safe and the terrain teaching your foot muscle. Use code ‘TOB’ to get 15% off! What You Will Learn in this PT Pearl: 2:48 – Diagnosis does not equal pain 3:50 – Research on Scans & Tests 6:00 – What is the Rotator Cuff? 13:48 – Thoracic Spine 14:51 – Muscular Imbalances 19:20 – Dr. Jen’s best tip to approaching Rotator Cuff Injury 22:08 – Dr. Dom’s best tip to approaching Rotator Cuff Injury 23:53 – Self-assessing with TMM To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://youtube.com/watch/ For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/120 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Caught up in a binge-restrict cycle? Can’t seem to truly practice intuitive eating? Feeling powerless with food choices? If you are struggling with the concept of naturally moderating your portion sizes, this one’s for you. Keri ford, a holistic health specialist, provides insight into approaching your relationship with food through a perspective of healing with a deeper root cause. Explaining the power of pausing, intuitive eating, and gradient of healing, she walks you through her own disordered eating past and provides tips on how you can begin to start your own journey. As part of the process, she talks about true self-love, distinguishing it from self-care. She touches base with the somatic work and its transformational effects in relation to the nervous system, trauma healing, and weight management. Learn whether or not Keri still struggles with her relationship with food and how to restore and reconnect with yourself on a sanctuary retreat with Keri! Let’s dive in! PaleoValley Discount: We mention PaleoValley in this episode. If you pick 5 packaged food items and read the ingredient list, can you be assured that you will understand the ingredients? That’s why we love PalleoVallley. Palleovalley uses whole foods ingredients, found naturally on our earth. With beef sticks and protein bars, they have something to satisfy your sweet or savory tooth! Use code ‘OPTIMAL‘ to get 15% off. What You Will Learn In This Interview with Keri Ford: 3:28 – Keri’s “Why.” 5:22 – Approaching struggling relationships with food. 6:36 – Power of Pausing. 10:34 – Dropping shame associated with food. 13:32 – Approaching cravings in terms of intuitive eating. 16:30 – How Keri permitted intuitive eating. 19:22 – Shifting from self-care to self-love. 21:08 – Billion dollar body principle. 22:57 – Tips on identifying how to be present & starting your journey. 26:33 – What is Somatic work? 34:29 – Keri’s Sanctuary Retreats. 39:03 – Connect further with Keri About Keri Ford: Featured around the world on Entrepreneur, NBC, SELF, Livestrong, and FOX, Keri is the CEO and Founder of Elevate with Keri – an elite transformational coaching movement and luxury brand created for high-performance women ready to be successful in this part of their life. As a previous Celebrity Trainer, Keri is recognized as an international motivational speaker, author, event host, and leading global authority on whole-body wellness. She has spoken alongside top industry experts, neuroscientists, and doctors. Keri has also been nominated as one of the Top 100 Visionaries in Healthcare by IFAH, the International Forum on Advancements in Healthcare. She is on a mission to empower millions of women to challenge diet culture, educate on the science and psychology of intuitive eating, and master self-love from the inside out. Items mentioned in this episode include: Keri’s Website: https://elevatewithkeri.com Sign up for Keri’s retreat: https://shiftwithsanctuary.com Keri’s Instagram: https://instagram.com/thekeriford/ To learn more about Keri and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/119 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Pain or swelling around the thumb side of your wrist? This PT Pearl gives you the rundown of what might be happening! Dr. Jen & Dr. Dom dive into what DeQuervains Syndrome and the tendons associated with it. Also known as Gamer’s thumb and Mother’s thumb, Dr. Dom coins the term “Mellenial’s Thumb,” discussing the association between the use of technology and DeQuervian’s syndrome. Furthermore, they explain the use of Finkelstein’s Test and potentially modifying it as a part of the treatment protocol. They present the latest understandings around DeQuervains Syndrome, shifting away from the idea that it is a condition that is caused solely by inflammation. Nonetheless, they give you the rundown on traditional treatment protocols of pain management through splinters and injections, and the importance of moving from passive treatment modalities (e.g ice. rest. injections) to active modalities to create long-term true change. Learn how to make the most of your rehabilitation by asking the right questions to your health insurance company, educating yourself about the syndrome, and empowering yourself with the understanding and approach to addressing your tendencies and symptoms! What You Will Learn in this PT Pearl: 0:42– What is DeQuervain Syndrome? 2:46 – Prevalence of DeQuervain Syndrome. 3:10 – Finkelstein's Test. 5:55 – Shifting away from ‘itis.’ 6:13 – How to approach sensations with the DeQuervain Syndrome? 9:14 – Shots & Injections. 11:38 – Shots & Injections aren't your long-term solution. 12:09 – Addressing Insurance Protocol. 13:00 – Surgical treatment. 14:01 – (P)Rehabilitation. 16:14 – More than just the thumb. To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://youtube.com/watch/ For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/118 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Let’s talk about optimizing nutrition to combat aging, disease, and weight management. Shawn starts the conversation by taking us through his path in deciding to leave the traditional medical and health care system, and use his expertise to provide guidance on truly experiencing longevity. Maybe, salt, fat, and cholesterol are not as bad as we think it is? Shawn unveils the truths behind the research that proposes negative correlations with salt, fat, and high cholesterol, in the context of hypertension, obesity, and heart disease respectively. While doing so, he hones in on the importance of natural, unprocessed, and whole foods. Moreover, Shawn addresses protein through concepts of muscle protein synthesis and insulin as a major contributor to protecting the body from sarcopenic obesity and age-related muscle loss. Particularly highlighting collagen and leucine, Shawn talks about different types, sources, and the importance of protein and collagen. Furthermore, Shawn addresses creatine and its anti-cancer, anti-aging, and performance-enhancing benefits. Finally, he mentions the association between blood sugar and diseases, and provides insight into his top 10 supplement list, emphasizing the significance of vitamin D3 and K2, magnesium, and polyphenols. Keep a handy notebook and pen close by. This one is noteworthy. Dry Farm Wines Discount: We mention Dry Farm Wines in this episode. Dr. Jen & Dr. Dom love to enjoy a little bit of wine now and then, and they love Dry Farm Wine! They use organic grapes, practice regenerative agriculture, and test every bottle for herbicides and pesticides to produce vibrant, fresh, and bright wine. Buy one get one for just one extra penny! What You Will Learn In This Interview with Shawn Wells: 6:09 – Shawn’s Work & Story, 13:28 – Salt, Fat, Cholesterol 20:54 – Protein Sources & Collagen. 26:49 – Collagen Ingredient Lists. 23:39 –Getting collagen through food. 31:07 – Creatine. 33:30 – Vitamin D3 & K2. 36:31 – Magnesium. 37:56 – Berberine. 38:54 – Blood Sugar & Disease 40:02 – Polyphenols. 41:52 – Evidence, Bioindividualsity, and The Energy Formula 43:38 – Learn more with Shawn. About Shawn Wells: Shawn Wells, MPH, LDN, RD, CISSN, FISSN is a product formulator and expert in the fields of performance nutrition, longevity, fitness, and supplementation. He earned his master’s degree from UNC-Chapel Hill, where he studied nutritional biochemistry with a minor in exercise science. Shawn is a Registered Dietitian with a decade of experience as a Chief Clinical Dietitian in hospitals and skilled nursing facilities. He is also a Certified Sports Nutritionist and has worked with celebrity clients and professional athletes. Items mentioned in this episode include: Shawn’s Book “The Energy Formula”: https://www.energyformula.com/ Shawn’s Website: https://shawnwells.com/ Shawn’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shawnwells/ To learn more about Shawn and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/117 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Been diagnosed with pes anserine bursitis? Have pain to swelling around your lower knee area? Dr. Jen & Dr. Dom decipher pes anserine bursitis, breaking down the term, diagnosis, and anatomy associated with the diagnosis. They explain common symptoms and dive into common contributions to the diagnosis. With its prevalence seen commonly amongst athletes and in conjunction with other issues in the lower limb, they hone in on concepts of irritation, tenderness, and systemic inflammation. Moreover, they debunk the misconception that flat feet and knee valgus are the causes of pes anserine and clarify the association. Finally, they guide you through their method of approaching pes anserine, covering inversions, lymph drainage, breath, stressors, mobility, and their favorite ways to activate the muscles associated with pes anserine. Tune in to learn! PaleoValley Discount: We also mention PaleoValley throughout the episode. En route to their next destination, currently, Doc Jen & Dr. Dom take these EVERYWHERE. PaleoValley is their go-to when they’re feeling peckish. For a complete protein, whole food, and all-natural snack. get your 100% grass-fed beef stick or superfood bar for a discount using code “OPTIMAL” at checkout. What You Will Learn in this PT Pearl: 1:57 – The Pes Anserine Area. 4:36 – Symptoms of Pes Anserine Bursitis. 5:56 – What could contribute to Bursitis. 6:44 – Prevalence in Athletes. 9:44 – What do Muscle Imbalances mean? 11:19 – Treatment 15:45 – Targettting the Muscles specifically. 18:34 – From foot up the chain. To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://www.youtube.com/docjenfit/watch/ For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/116 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Wonder what the difference is between grass-fed and grass-finished meat? Curious to learn about regenerative farming? Interested in how the omega 3:6 ratio matters in your meat? Tune in as Anya deciphers the world of meat. Starting off with her story and how her transition from eating vegetarian to eating meat, she speaks from within as she explains what drove and still drives her passion to produce quality meat. Then, Anya explains the fundamentals of regenerative farming and how it relates to farm legacy and soil nutrients for health. Soon after, she shifts into talking about the environment and ethics, discussing her perspectives on overpopulation and the meat industry, the cheap meat paradox, as well as food wastage. Finally, she breaks down all our questions about labels, clarifying the difference between grass-fed, grass-finished, organic, cage-free, farm-raised, and pasture-raised. With that comes her top recommendation in choosing the best sources of meat, depending on ruminant versus non-ruminant animals, according to its labels. She takes pride in how Belcampo cares for the development of the animal and the health of her customers. Listen in as Anya talks you through the meat industry, and how Belcampo meat might be your best bet! Dry Farm Wines Discount: We mention Dry Farm Wines in this episode. Dr. Jen & Dr. Dom love to enjoy a little bit of wine now and then, and they love Dry Farm Wine! They use organic grapes, practice regenerative agriculture, and test every bottle for herbicides and pesticides to produce vibrant, fresh, and bright wine. Buy one get one for just one extra penny! What You Will Learn In This Interview with Anya Fernald : 3:05 – What drove Anya’s passion? 8:40 – From vegetarian to farm foods. 11:54 – Food Italy. 15:58 – Regenerative Farming. 17:30 – Regenerative Farming in America. 19:30 – Benefits of slow-growing meats. 20:59 – Can regenerative farming feed overpopulation? 22:59 – Cheap-Meat paradox. 25:58 – Subsidization & Meat. 27:30 – Battling Alternative Meats. 28:23 – Different labels in the meat industry and what they mean. 30:30 – How to source the best quality meat. 36:40 – E-commerce & Grocery Stores for Belcampo 38:56 – Learn more & How you can order Belcampo. 40:00 – Rights & Meat. About Anya Fernando: Anya Fernald brings 15 years of experience building and growing food businesses to Belcampo. Her first job after college was to launch a cooperative of cheesemakers in rural Sicily, from there she moved to direct international micro-investments for the Italian Slow Food Foundation. Upon returning to the US in 2005, she built and ran a produce distribution company and launched Slow Food Nation and Eat Real. Anya then developed business plans via her own company, Live Culture, where she first began working with partner Todd Robinson as a client. Anya has been a regular judge on the Food Network’s Iron Chef since 2009 and also serves as the founding board chair of the Food Craft Institute. Items mentioned in this episode include: Belcampo Website: https://belcampo.com/ Belcampo Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/belcampo Anya’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anyafernald/ To learn more about Anya and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/115 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Has someone told you that you have a posterior pelvic tilt? Or have you noticed it yourself? Maybe you’re confused between the pelvic tilts? Dr. Jen & Dr. Dom dive into the differences between anterior and pelvic tilt while honing in on the idea that structure does NOT necessarily correlate with your pain or symptoms through research. With awareness as a focal point, they describe the importance of noticing changes in your tendencies when you stand, sit, change positions, or move, especially in the sagittal plane for starters. Then, they explain the intricacies between the pelvic-ribcage-breath synergy and debunk pelvic tilt tendencies with hamstring or “core” tightness. Using principles of research surrounding pelvic tilts and chronic low back pain, Dr. Jen & Dr. Dom explore how you can explore proprioception, range of motion, and speed within the pelvic area to find a more optimal position and neurologically safe position for your body. Let’s dive in! Free Week of the Jen Health Membership: Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all currated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout! What You Will Learn in this PT Pearl: 0:38 – Structure does not necessarily determine pain. 2:25 – Anterior Vs Posterior Pelvic Tilt. 4:12 – Noticing tendencies in the sagittal plane. 5:55 – Pelvis-Ribcage-Breath Synergy. 8:34 – Asymptomatic research on pelvic tilt tendencies. 10:17 – Is the posterior pelvic tilt always due to tight hamstrings and core? 12:48 – Pelvic tendencies in chronic low back pain. 13:44 – How you address your pelvic tilt tendencies. 9:15 – Dr. Dom’s pelvic tendencies. 20:02 – Dr. Dom’s pelvic tendencies. 20:42 – Getting guided is hugely important. To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://youtube.com/watch/ For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/114 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Wondering about the medicinal properties of spices? Curious about the science behind collagen and collagen supplements? Wondering why herbs and spices have been getting all the press lately? Let’s take a deep dive into alternative medicine, using principles of traditional Chinese medicine with Dr. Josh Axe. With his passion driven by the profound healing effects of natural medicine on cancer with his mother, he speaks into what inspired his mother to keep an open mind to methods beyond the traditional health care system that she found was making her sicker, and how he initiates change in his clients. Dr. Axe dives into the significant benefits of collagen, the types, and the best sources of collagen, through meat consumption or as a supplement. Furthermore, Dr. Axe unveils the interplay between emotions and the taxing effects of different emotions on different organ systems, ultimately honing in on identifying and managing the root cause of your symptoms. Through this interplay, he explores the world of herbs and spices, explaining which ingredients are most beneficial for different health conditions: inflammation, immunity, hypothyroidism, digestive issues, brain health, and reproductive issues to name a few. Moreover, he dives into the power of mushrooms, highlighting the therapeutic effects of different types of mushrooms, and explores the taboo around CBD. Finally, he praises Dr. Jen & Dr. Dom for their approach to movement as medicine, and provides his top tip to longevity, emphasizing that herbs and spices supplement holistic health, but aren’t necessarily the one solution to your symptoms. PaleoValley Discount: We mention PaleoValley in this episode. Dr. Jen & Dr. Dom swear by Paleovalley because they know everything that is in their beef sticks and can trust the ingredients list. There’s no vague labeling or words they don’t understand on the packaging! Stack them up in your pantry using code ‘OPTIMAL’ to get a 15% discount at checkout. What You Will Learn In This Interview with Dr. Josh Axe: 3:26 – Where Dr. Axe's Passion Origins From. 7:40 – Dr. Axe's mother and her open mind to Ancient Medicine. 9:07 – How Dr. Axe introduces Natural Medicine to first-timers. 11:47 – Why Collagen. 15:09 – Types, Quality, Sourcing Collagen 18:45 – Getting more collagen by eating the nits and grits of meat? 20:00 – How emotions tax different organ systems. 25:16 – Herbs that support different medical issues. 28:16 – Power of Mushrooms. 30:53 – CBD Taboo. 33:34 – Movement Medicine. 37:03 – Learn more with Dr. Axe! About Dr. Josh Axe: Dr. Josh Axe, founder of Ancient Nutrition and DrAxe.com, is a certified doctor of natural medicine (DNM), doctor of chiropractic (DC) and clinical nutritionist (CNS) with a passion to help people get healthy by empowering them to use nutrition to fuel their health. He is the bestselling author of KETO DIET, Eat Dirt, and COLLAGEN DIET and Ancient Remedies. Dr. Axe founded the natural health website DrAxe.com, one of the top natural health websites in the world today. Items mentioned in this episode include: Dr. Axe’s Website: https://draxe.com/ Dr. Axe’s book: Ancient Remedies: https://draxe.com/ancientremedies/ Dr. Axe’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjoshaxe/ Dr. Axe’s Podcast: https://draxe.com/podcast/ To learn more about Dr. Josh and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/113 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Has someone told you that you have an anteriorpelvic tilt? Or have you noticed it yourself? Maybe you’re confused between the pelvic tilts? Dr. Jen & Dr. Dom dive into the differences between the anterior and posterior pelvic tilt while honing in on the idea that structure does NOT necessarily correlate with your pain or symptoms through research. With awareness as a focal point, they describe the importance of noticing changes in your tendencies when you stand, sit, change positions, or move, especially in the sagittal plane for starters. Then, they explain the intricacies between the pelvic-ribcage-breath synergy and debunk pelvic tilt tendencies with hamstring or “core” tightness. Using principles of research surrounding pelvic tilts and chronic low back pain, Dr. Jen & Dr. Dom explore how you can explore proprioception, range of motion, and speed within the pelvic area to find a more optimal position and a neurologically safe position for your body. Let’s dive in! Free Week of the Jen Health Membership: Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all currated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout! What You Will Learn in this PT Pearl: 0:45 – What are pelvic tilts? 1:06 – How to determine pelvic tendencies 2:15 – Why does Dr. Dm have an anterior pelvic tilt tendency 3:55 – Lower cross syndrome 5:07 – Queen of the body - Nervous System 8:00 – Keep stretching those hip flexors? 9:25 – How to neurologically re-pattern 15:26 – Foundations & building breath To Watch the PT Pearl on YouTube, click here: https://youtube.com/watch/ For research and full show notes, visit the full website at: https://jen.health/podcast/112 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Do you wear glasses/ contact lenses? Got Lasik? Eyesight worsening, perhaps? This episode is for you. Jake Steiner breaks down the world of Myopia, also known as shortsightedness, and explains the mechanism behind Myopia in a simple manner. Jake hones in on the differences between long-distance and short-distance glasses, and what may be contributing to your eyesight worsening, even if you have glasses! Much like Dr. Dom has his 30-30 rule about moving every 30 minutes, Jake provides insight into his rules on optimizing eye health in our digital age. Moreover, he dissects whether or not squinting or trying to struggle through blurred vision is bad for the eyes, and how glasses and contact lenses have their place for specific purposes. Jake offers his suggestions on some steps you can take to optimize your vision, and speaks into how diet and your environment can play a significant role in your vision clarity. Finally, he talks through his perspective around Lasik and when it may be best to consider Lasik, if desired. Open up your eyes, both literally and metaphorically, as Jake deciphers all things eye-related. Free Week of the Jen Health Membership: Looking for a movement community that gives you the plan specific to your body? Need accountability and a plan that is specific to your restrictions?! Come grab a free week of our Jen Health Membership! You'll have access to 12 plans that were all currated by Doc Jen, Dr of Physical Therapy. We make sure you get set up with the plan that will be best for your goals and the rest is laid out for you to follow! Come check it out today! You can even get a discount on your first month using code OPTIMAL at checkout! What You Will Learn in this interview with Jake Steiner: 2:57 – What drove Jake’s passion? 4:11 – What is Myopia? 9:52 – How long until it's time to get off technology during the day? 10:47 – Glasses and Worsening Eyesight. 13:38 – Is squinting or blurred vision making your eyesight worse? 17:44 – Contact lens is better short-term than glasses. 18:17 – How can you start on your own? 21:30 – Do eye exercises work? 23:40 – Your environment and eyesight. 25:50 – Diet & Eyesight. 27:12 – Laski Surgery. 31:33 – Eyesight changes across the life span. 33:20 – Jake’s Quick Suggestions. 36:12 – Learn more with Jake. About Jake Steiner: Jake Steiner is a (semi-retired) stock trader and investor. His personal passion is understanding human eyesight - and has spent the past 20 years in vision biology science, exploring natural myopia control. Jake hosts the Web’s largest vision improvement community with many tens of thousands of participants and has written over 1,200 articles on vision biology and myopia control. Items mentioned in this episode include: Jake’s Website: https://endmyopia.org/ A FB Group: https://web.facebook.com/groups/ Forum: https://community.endmyopia.org Wiki: https://wiki.endmyopia.org/wiki/EndMyopia_Wiki Jake’s Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/jakesteiner Jake’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jakeysteiner/ To learn more about Jake and view full show notes, please visit the full website here: https://jen.health/podcast/111 Thank you so much for checking out this episode of The Optimal Body Podcast. If you haven’t done so already, please take a minute to subscribe and leave a quick rating and review of the show! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.