Wild & Fierce | hormone health, functional nutrition, fitness, and motherhood|

In this episode, Johanna and Amber welcome Megan Macy, a certified lactation counselor and doula, to the Wild and Fierce Podcast. Megan shares her journey into the world of lactation support and doula work, offering valuable insights for new and expecting parents.Key Topics Discussed:Megan’s background and what inspired her to become a lactation counselor and doulaThe importance of support during pregnancy, birth, and postpartumCommon challenges with breastfeeding and how to overcome themTips for new parents navigating the early days with a newbornThe role of a doula and how they can support familiesResources and advice for those considering a career in birth workConnect with Megan:To learn more about Megan’s services or to get in touch, visit her website: themilklady.net or on IG or TikTok: @themilkladylc *All of the information discussed in this episode is for entertainment and education purposes only, please do not take this information as medical advice. Please discuss any changes you’d like to make with your medical provider. Contact us: hello@wildandfierce.comJohanna:IG: @‌wildmusewellnessWebsite: www.wildmusewellness.comBook a consult with Wild Muse: Book A ConsultWatch the Metabolism Masterclass HERE Amber:IG: @‌fierce.not.fragileWebsite: Fierce, Not FragileCoaching Inquiries: https://fierce-not-fragile.kit.com/2bc1651227

In this episode, we dive deep into the realities of postpartum recovery—covering everything you wish someone had told you before giving birth. Drawing from personal experience and supporting her sister through postpartum, Amber shares universal truths, practical tips, and emotional support for new moms.Topics Covered:Universal Postpartum TruthsWhy you’ll still look pregnant after birth (and why it’s normal)The reality of postpartum bleeding (lochia): what to expect, how long it lasts, and when to call your providerWhen your milk comes in and what engorgement feels likeSoreness, uterine cramping, and the importance of restThe emotional and hormonal rollercoaster: postpartum blues vs. postpartum depression/anxietyThe challenge of isolation and the importance of finding your support systemVaginal Birth: What to ExpectPerineal tearing: how to prepare and care for stitchesThe first postpartum bowel movement: tips for comfort and safetyHemorrhoids and pelvic floor recoveryRecommended products: peri bottles, perineal sprays, ice packs, high-waisted underwear, period panties, sits baths, squatty pottyC-Section Recovery: What to ExpectWhy C-section is major surgery and what recovery really looks likeScar care: splinting, desensitizing, and massageManaging pain, gas, and mobilityMust-haves: loose clothing, pillows, stool softener, realistic expectationsRed Flags & When to Seek HelpSigns of infection, abnormal bleeding, severe pain, headaches, and breathing issuesDistinguishing between normal baby blues and postpartum depression/anxietySanity-Saving TipsPrepping freezer mealsBringing comfort items to the hospitalSetting boundaries with visitorsLetting go of “bounce back” pressureResources Mentioned:What To Expect Postpartum Guide: What to expect postpartum!.pdfScar Desensitizing: C-section Scar desensitizationScar Massage: C-section scar massage and mobility*All of the information discussed in this episode is for entertainment and education purposes only, please do not take this information as medical advice. Please discuss any changes you’d like to make with your medical provider. Contact us: hello@wildandfierce.com Johanna:IG: @‌wildmusewellnessWebsite: www.wildmusewellness.comBook a consult with Wild Muse: Book A Consult Amber:IG: @‌fierce.not.fragileWebsite: Fierce, Not FragileCoaching Inquiries: https://fierce-not-fragile.kit.com/2bc1651227

On this episode, Amber and Johanna continue their conversation with functional health expert Michael Rutherford. This second part is packed with practical advice and myth-busting around lab testing, root causes, and women’s health.Key Topics Covered:Why “root cause” matters: Michael explains why diagnoses like hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s, or low progesterone are just the beginning, and why asking “why” is the key to true healing.The pitfalls of jumping straight to hormone panels, food sensitivity tests, and specialty labs without addressing foundational health.How symptoms often reveal more than lab numbers, and why practitioners should look beyond the diagnosis to underlying causes.The importance of working with ethical, skilled practitioners (and how DIY approaches can waste time and money).Understanding blood markers: Why blood tests are the gold standard, and how to interpret markers like glucose, insulin, A1C, and cholesterol with nuance.The complexity of insulin resistance, why fasting labs matter, and how stress, diet, and even things like mold or parasites can impact your results.Cholesterol demystified: Why high cholesterol isn’t always bad, how age and gender affect optimal ranges, and why context is everything.The truth about TSH and thyroid testing: Why TSH alone isn’t enough, the role of the pituitary, and how under-eating and over-exercising can impact thyroid health.Gut health basics: Why food sensitivity tests are often unnecessary, and the simple foundational steps to start healing your gut.The three root causes of dysfunction: Deficiency, toxicity, and vitality (mental/emotional health)—and why you need to address all three for lasting wellness.Michael’s approach to blood chemistry and why patterns (not single markers) tell the real story.Connect with Michael Rutherford:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/functional_blood_chemistry/Website: https://www.fundamentawellness.com/*All of the information discussed in this episode is for entertainment and education purposes only, please do not take this information as medical advice. Please discuss any changes you’d like to make with your medical provider. Contact us: hello@wildandfierce.comJohanna:IG: @‌wildmusewellnessWebsite: www.wildmusewellness.comBook a consult with Wild Muse: Book A ConsultAmber:IG: @‌fierce.not.fragileWebsite: Fierce, Not FragileCoaching Inquiries: https://fierce-not-fragile.kit.com/2bc1651227

In Part 1 of this 2 part deep-dive series, Amber and Johanna are joined by Michael Rutherford to unravel the mysteries of lab work, functional blood chemistry, and why so many people feel unwell despite “normal” test results. The conversation covers the pitfalls of conventional lab ranges, the importance of looking for root causes, and how functional approaches can reveal what standard medicine often misses.Key Topics Covered:Michael’s personal health journey and how it led him to functional blood chemistryThe difference between conventional and functional lab rangesWhy “normal” lab results don’t always mean optimal healthThe limitations of standard blood panels (CBC, differentials, iron markers, etc.)The impact of insurance and the healthcare system on lab testingThe importance of asking “why” and looking for patterns, not just treating numbersCommon missteps in functional and conventional medicineThe dangers of “greenwashed” allopathic approachesHow to advocate for yourself as a patientThe real cost of lab work and why out-of-pocket can be cheaperWhen to use (and not use) hormone panels and food sensitivity testsConnect with Michael Rutherford:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/functional_blood_chemistry/Website: https://www.fundamentawellness.com/*All of the information discussed in this episode is for entertainment and education purposes only, please do not take this information as medical advice. Please discuss any changes you’d like to make with your medical provider. Contact us: hello@wildandfierce.comJohanna:IG: @‌wildmusewellnessWebsite: www.wildmusewellness.comBook a consult with Wild Muse: Book A ConsultAmber:IG: @‌fierce.not.fragileWebsite: Fierce, Not FragileCoaching Inquiries: https://fierce-not-fragile.kit.com/2bc1651227

In this empowering episode, Amber dives into one of the most important — and often overlooked — parts of pregnancy: birth preparation.Yes, your body was made to give birth. But just like a marathon runner wouldn't show up to race day without training, you shouldn't go into labor without support, strategy, and physical and mental prep.Whether you're a first-time mom or preparing for a different birth this time around, Amber breaks down exactly how to support your body and mind — from strength training and pelvic floor prep to breathing techniques and building your mental resilience.🧠 What You’ll Learn:Why birth prep is not just for Type A moms — it’s for every womanThe power of treating labor like a marathon, not a mysteryHow to train your body with strength and endurance for a smoother laborWhat most people get wrong about pelvic floor work during pregnancyThe difference between strength and relaxation when it comes to pushingHow to practice pelvic floor relaxation with breathwork and intentional movementAmber’s favorite positions to prep your pelvic floor for birthWhy it’s never “too late” to start preparing — even if you're in your third trimester🛠️ Resources & Links Mentioned:📘 Free Birth Planning E-book Get Amber’s free guide to start your birth prep journey 👉 https://products.fiercenotfragile.com/free-birth-planning-ebook🧳 Birth Plan & Hospital Packing Checklist Not sure where to start? Use this free guide to get organized 👉 https://products.fiercenotfragile.com/birth-plan-and-hospital-packing-list💪 Fierce Birth Prep & Postpartum Recovery Course Amber’s signature course for birth prep, pelvic floor, strength, recovery & more 👉 https://products.fiercenotfragile.com/fierce-birth-prep-course💬 Work with Amber 1:1 Looking for personalized coaching and birth prep support? 👉 https://products.fiercenotfragile.com/client-landing-page*All of the information discussed in this episode is for entertainment and education purposes only, please do not take this information as medical advice. Please discuss any changes you’d like to make with your medical provider. Contact us: hello@wildandfierce.com Johanna:IG: @‌wildmusewellnessWebsite: www.wildmusewellness.comBook a consult with Wild Muse: Book A Consult Amber:IG: @‌fierce.not.fragileWebsite: Fierce, Not FragileCoaching Inquiries: https://fierce-not-fragile.kit.com/2bc1651227

In this week's solo episode, Johanna shares what really works when it comes to healing your gut, and why most trendy protocols and supplement stacks fall short. She leans into the foundational approach: support your body first, then address imbalances. If you're tired of expensive cleanses, frustrating food restrictions, or being “on the protocol hamster wheel,” this one’s for you.You’ll get insight into the root drivers behind gut dysfunction (not just symptoms), plus actionable steps you can begin implementing immediately. Johanna also walks you through how she healed her own gut issues and what she now teaches clients to do differently.🌿 What You’ll LearnWhy most gut protocols fail (they skip the basics)The “lawn analogy” — how your gut environment mirrors a gardenKey upstream factors (stomach acid, blood sugar, stress, chewing habits)How under-eating sabotages gut healthSimple but powerful habits that support digestionWhen and how to safely layer in targeted protocols or testingFeatured Resources & Offers-✨ Women’s Metabolism & Hormones Made Simple (Free Virtual Class) This class helps you:Understand women’s metabolism (yes, it works differently than men’s)Learn how much food your body really needs to support hormonesDiscover why PMS, fatigue, and cycle irregularities happenBuild balanced, hormone-supportive meals without rigid dieting→ Access it here: Metabolism Masterclass Landing Page products.wildmusewellness.com✨ 5 Days to Better Energy, Moods & Periods (5‑Day Reset — $7) A hormone-supporting blood sugar reset framework for women who are ready for change. In just 5 days, you’ll:Stabilize energy (bye bye afternoon crashes)Reduce mood swings / “hangry” momentsEase PMS, cravings, sleep disturbances, and moreWhat you get:Full 5-day reset guideMeal & snack ideas (macro-balanced)Daily tracking workbook + symptom checklistBonus hormone-supportive grocery list→ Grab access here: 5‑Day Reset Landing Page products.wildmusewellness.com*All of the information discussed in this episode is for entertainment and education purposes only, please do not take this information as medical advice. Please discuss any changes you’d like to make with your medical provider. Contact us: hello@wildandfierce.com Johanna:IG: @‌wildmusewellnessWebsite: www.wildmusewellness.comBook a consult with Wild Muse: Book A Consult Amber:IG: @‌fierce.not.fragileWebsite: Fierce, Not FragileCoaching Inquiries: https://fierce-not-fragile.kit.com/2bc1651227

In this episode of The Wild and Fierce Podcast, we’re diving into the fascinating (and often misunderstood) world of hypermobility with our friend and expert guest, Taylor Goldberg, a chiropractor turned virtual hypermobility coach.Whether you’ve been told you’re “double-jointed,” are navigating chronic pain, or have never even heard of Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS), this conversation is for you. Taylor shares her personal journey, breaks down what hypermobility actually is (spoiler: it’s not about being extra flexible), and explains why so many people go undiagnosed for years.We also touch on symptoms, diagnostic challenges, the overlap with trauma, mold exposure, COVID, postpartum recovery, and why you don’t need a formal diagnosis to get support. If you’ve ever felt dismissed or misunderstood in your health journey—this episode is a must-listen.What We Cover:What is hypermobility—and why "double-jointed" is a mythTaylor’s journey from childhood diagnosis to coaching othersThe 4 types of hypermobility and why most people have never heard of themThe long and flawed road to diagnosis (22 years on average!)The difference between flexibility and joint mobilityWhy so many hypermobile people feel stiff, not bendyHow trauma, viruses (like mono or COVID), and postpartum can trigger symptomsThe GI, nervous system, pelvic floor, and cardiovascular symptoms commonly associated with hEDSThe controversy around clinical vs. genetic diagnosesWhy the current medical system fails hypermobile patients—and how to advocate for yourselfStrength training, pregnancy, and postpartum tips for hypermobile bodiesAnd so much more!About Our Guest:Taylor is a chiropractor and virtual hypermobility coach who specializes in helping clients with Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD). Living with hEDS herself, she brings both clinical expertise and lived experience to her coaching, helping clients around the world reduce pain, build strength, and reclaim agency over their bodies.Connect with Taylor:Instagram: @‌thehypermobilechiroWebsite: thehypermobilechiro.comLoved this episode? Drop us a review on Apple Podcasts—it helps us reach more listeners like you. 💛*All of the information discussed in this episode is for entertainment and education purposes only, please do not take this information as medical advice. Please discuss any changes you’d like to make with your medical provider. Contact us: hello@wildandfierce.comJohanna:IG: @‌wildmusewellnessWebsite: www.wildmusewellness.comBook a consult with Wild Muse: Book A ConsultWatch the Metabolism Masterclass HERE Amber:IG: @‌fierce.not.fragileWebsite: Fierce, Not FragileCoaching Inquiries: https://fierce-not-fragile.kit.com/2bc1651227

In this no-BS solo episode, Amber gets real about a common — and costly — excuse: “I’m too busy.” If you’ve ever said those words when it comes to working out, eating better, getting more sleep, or managing stress... this episode is your wake-up call. From hard-hitting stats on muscle loss and screen time, to real-life examples of mom guilt and the kid activity trap, Amber breaks down exactly why we need to stop waiting for the perfect time — and how to start prioritizing our health now.This episode is packed with powerful reframes, reflection questions, and truth bombs that will challenge you to look at your priorities, your habits, and your legacy.🧠 What You'll Learn:Why “too busy” is not a valid excuse for neglecting your healthHow your current habits shape your future strength, energy, and independenceHow to model wellness for your kids without the burnoutHow to reframe “I don’t have time” into “It’s not a priority”The power of small, consistent actions (and why they matter more than perfect plans)🛠️ Topics Covered:👩‍👧‍👦 The “mom martyr” mindset & over-scheduling your kids🧠 Priority vs. time: What your habits say about your values📉 Muscle loss & aging: What happens when you wait📱 Screen time audit: The hard truth about your phone habits🏋️‍♀️ What meaningful fitness really looks like (spoiler: not just the gym)🔁 How to stop spinning your wheels and start seeing results🧓 Creating a future you’re proud of — one strong habit at a time💥 Amber’s Challenge to You:Do a priority audit of your week. You have 168 hours — how many go toward your health?Pull up your screen time report and compare it to your workout consistency.Ask yourself: What are you saying yes to that you should be saying no to?Write down your 5 deep WHYs for wanting to feel healthier and stronger.🛎️ Resources & Links:Want support that actually fits your life? Learn more about Amber’s coaching HEREFollow us on IG @wildandfiercepodcast for more daily motivationShare this episode with a friend who needs a loving kick in the pants ✨ Ads from this Episode: ✨ Purchase the Fierce Birth Prep & Postpartum Recovery Course here: Fierce Birth Prep & Postpartum Recovery Course*All of the information discussed in this episode is for entertainment and education purposes only, please do not take this information as medical advice. Please discuss any changes you’d like to make with your medical provider. Contact us: hello@wildandfierce.com Johanna:IG: @‌wildmusewellnessWebsite: www.wildmusewellness.comBook a consult with Wild Muse: Book A Consult Amber:IG: @‌fierce.not.fragileWebsite: Fierce, Not FragileCoaching Inquiries: https://fierce-not-fragile.kit.com/2bc1651227