Love Mia Vita

Could hormone replacement therapy (HRT) affect digestive health? In this episode of the Love Mia Vita podcast, Gerianne DiPiano talks with family physician Dr. C. Nicole Swiner about the possible connection between HRT and diverticulitis. They explore how diverticulitis develops, why risk increases with age, and what researchers are learning about estrogen, gut motility, collagen, and the microbiome. They also discuss what is still unknown about different types and routes of hormone therapy, other factors that may affect diverticulitis risk, and why women should bring changes in digestive health into the conversation with their healthcare provider.

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A cancer diagnosis can change how you see your body, your relationships, your future, and even your sense of self. In this episode, Gerianne DiPiano talks with psychologist and sex therapist Dr. Juliana Hauser about how women can reclaim agency during cancer treatment and survivorship. They explore navigating fear and uncertainty, making informed choices, protecting mental and sexual health, communicating with partners and care teams, and redefining intimacy and identity after cancer. The conversation offers a compassionate framework for finding what feels right for you and living on your own terms before, during, and after treatment. To connect with...

Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is more than dissatisfaction with appearance. It can involve an intense fixation on perceived flaws that others may barely notice, leading to anxiety, social withdrawal, repeated reassurance-seeking, and a diminished quality of life. Gerianne DiPiano and psychologist and sex therapist Dr. Juliana Hauser discuss the symptoms and possible contributing factors behind BDD, including social media, cultural beauty standards, pregnancy, aging, perimenopause, and menopause. They also examine the important distinction between ordinary appearance concerns and the persistent preoccupation associated with body dysmorphic disorder, including why cosmetic procedures may not resolve the underlying distress. The conversation highlights...

Chronic stress does more than leave you feeling overwhelmed. It can have a real impact on your heart and overall health. On the Love Mia Vita Podcast, family physician Dr. C. Nicole Swiner joins Gerie DiPiano to explore the connection between stress and women’s cardiovascular health, including cortisol, blood clot risk, heart attack symptoms in women, pregnancy and family history, and the importance of advocating for your health. Plus, learn practical ways to reduce stress and protect your heart at every stage of life. Follow Dr. Swiner on her Linktree: https://linktr.ee/docswiner

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What makes a relationship truly fulfilling? Psychologist and sex therapist Dr. Juliana Hauser joins the Love Mia Vita podcast to explore the renewed interest in lavender marriages and what they reveal about modern love. From emotional intimacy and relationship equity to authenticity, trust, and companionship, the conversation challenges traditional ideas about marriage and asks a more meaningful question: What if the best relationship is simply the one that makes you feel seen, supported, safe, and fulfilled? To connect with Dr. Juliana Hauser visit https://dr-juliana.com/ For more information on women's health advocacy, visit the FemmePharma website www.femmepharma...

In this episode of the Love Mia Vita podcast, host Gerianne DiPiano is joined by family medicine physician and women’s health expert Dr. C. Nicole Swiner to unlock the secrets of the body’s ultimate "hormonal powerhouse," the thyroid gland. From unexplained hair loss and sudden mood shifts to irregular cycles, brain fog, and fertility challenges, the small, butterfly-shaped thyroid gland impacts nearly every aspect of your well-being. Discover how this powerful gland quietly governs every major transition in a woman's life, from puberty through perimenopause and beyond. Tune in to learn why your standard lab tests might be m...

In this episode of the Love, Mia Vita podcast, host Gerianne DiPiano and Dr. Shawana Moore explore the unique challenges women face in healthcare from systemic inequities and medical gaslighting to managing conditions like perimenopause and endometriosis. Dr. Moore urges women to step up as the primary decision-makers on their healthcare teams, offering actionable strategies to help listeners reclaim their agency through self-advocacy, finding the right provider, arriving prepared with symptom logs, staying proactive with preventive screenings, and prioritizing long-term mental health. For more information on women's health advocacy, visit the FemmePharma website www.femmepharma.com

In this episode of the Love Mia Vita podcast, host Gerianne DiPiano sits down with licensed therapist and sex expert Dr. Juliana Hauser to examine the rising prevalence of substance use disorder (specifically alcohol use) among women. The conversation sheds light on the often-ignored sex-based and biological differences in how female bodies absorb alcohol, particularly during life transitions like perimenopause and menopause. They explore the psychological drivers that lead women to self-medicate for anxiety or life overload, how to honestly evaluate your own relationship with drinking, and the critical need to destigmatize the disease of addiction. Finally, the duo...

Discover the powerful connection between your brain and your body! Host Gerianne DiPiano is joined by fitness coach and sports psychology expert Kathrine "Kat" Bright to break down the science of neuro-fitness; the revolutionary approach of blending physical movement with mental challenges to delay brain aging, sharpen your memory, and improve your balance. From the biochemical magic of "brain fertilizer" (BDNF) to easy, everyday "exercise snacks" you can do while brushing your teeth, this conversation is packed with actionable advice to keep your mind and body resilient at any age. Tune in to learn how you can start training...

Why does the transition through perimenopause and menopause so heavily impact our emotional well-being—and how do we distinguish between a clinical mental health issue and a hormonal transition? In this episode, Gerianne DiPiano sits down with psychologist, sex therapist, and medical advisory board member Dr. Juliana Hauser to trace the direct link between fluctuating hormones, mood changes, and sexual health. Together, they explain how the depletion of estrogen affects key regions of the brain, why foundational sex education matters in midlife, and how women can confidently self-advocate to reclaim their quality of life. Tune in for an honest lo...

Are you constantly on edge, struggling with midsection weight gain, or waking up with a racing heart? In this episode of the Love, Mia Vita podcast, Gerianne DiPiano and Dr. Nicole Swiner dive deep into the science of cortisol—the "fight or flight" hormone that can wreak havoc on a woman's body. While cortisol is essential for survival, chronic elevation leads to physical symptoms often mistaken for general aging, including thinning hair, brain fog, and decreased libido. We discuss how life stages like perimenopause and the "sandwich generation" create a perfect storm for hormonal chaos. Learn how to identify th...

In a special "flipped-script" edition of the Love, Mia Vita podcast, frequent guest and psychologist Dr. Juliana Hauser takes the interviewer’s chair to go behind the scenes with our host, Gerianne DiPiano. From her early days navigating the "default male" standards of Big Pharma to the terrifying moment of launching FemmePharma with nothing but a checkbook and a credit card, Gerianne shares the raw, personal history that fueled her life’s work. This episode is a deep dive into the intersection of science and activism, exploring why women’s healthcare has become unnecessarily politicized and why maintaining a moral...

This is Part 2 of the series on Public Health. Gerianne and Dr. Gold move from the federal level to the personal, tackling the controversial headlines that are directly impacting women’s health decisions today. They debunk the "junk science" surrounding acetaminophen use during pregnancy, examine the recent removal of the HRT "Black Box" warning, and highlight the critical need for new, transparent data. This episode moves beyond the clinical to the practical, exploring how socioeconomic hurdles like childcare and nutrition are the true determinants of health. It’s a candid look at how we can protect our bodily autonomy and...

In a polarized landscape where health advice is increasingly tied to political headlines, finding objective truth can feel like an uphill battle. In Part 1 of this vital series, Gerianne DiPiano is joined by public health expert Dr. Marla Gold to discuss the concept of "Purple Healthcare"—the idea that clinical data and disease do not follow blue or red party lines. From the current leadership gaps at the CDC to the surprising resurgence of measles, they examine how the erosion of public data impacts the safety of women and families. This episode is a deep dive into reclaiming "clinical li...

Most women don’t think about their kidneys until something goes wrong, but these "vital filters" are the silent navigators of every major life transition. In this episode, Dr. C. Nicole Swiner joins Gerianne DiPiano to reveal how chronic stress and shifting estrogen levels—from early adulthood through menopause—directly impact your kidney function. Learn why shifting your focus from heart health to kidney vitality is a total game-changer for long-term health, and discover simple, proactive habits to protect your body’s internal balance through every season of life. For more insights, you can find Dr. Swiner’s book, The Health...

How do we refill our emotional cup in an era of constant burnout? Join Gerianne DiPiano and Dr. Juliana Hauser on Love, Mia Vita as they explore the "Walk for Peace", a 2,300-mile monastic pilgrimage that redefined modern resilience. Discover how Mindfulness and Compassion are essential survival skills for a woman’s "tender toughness." From overcoming compassion fatigue to the science of rewriting your neural pathways, this episode offers a practical roadmap to building your own inner sanctuary, one step at a time. To connect with Dr. Juliana Hauser visit https://dr-juliana.com/ For more information on women's health, vi...

Gerianne DiPiano is joined by Dr. Victoria Clement, a highly credentialed pelvic floor physical therapist. They discuss the importance of proper assessment and tailored exercises for pelvic health. Topics include the differences between pelvic PT and Pilates, when to seek professional help, and how to safely incorporate pelvic exercises into your routine. Check out more about Dr. Victoria Clement and her team at Restore Physical Therapy and Pelvic Health https://www.restorethefloorpt.com/

Can’t find an hour for the gym? It might actually be better to "snack." In this episode of the Love Mia Vita podcast, Gerie is joined by registered Nutritional Therapist and Aesthetician Alison Bladh to explore the science of exercise snacks—short, manageable bursts of activity that fit into even the busiest schedules. As we navigate menopause and midlife, our bodies handle stress and glucose differently. Alison breaks down why moving for just 1–10 minutes throughout the day can be effective for metabolic health. For more information on women's health, visit the FemmePharma website www.femmepharma.com. To work with A...

Are you feeling "broken" in the bedroom, or wondering why your partner’s sexual health is prioritized while yours is treated as an afterthought? In this eye-opener of an episode, Dr. Maria Sophocles, a board-certified OBGYN and author of The Bedroom Gap, joins Gerie DiPiano to dismantle the "Viagravation" of modern medicine. We dive deep into why 80% of women don’t orgasm from penetrative sex alone, the shocking history of how the FDA fast-tracked male pleasure while stalling on female health, and the anatomical myths that even doctors get wrong. Whether you’re navigating the physiological shifts of menopause or loo...

Gerianne DiPiano (FemmePharma Founder & CEO) is joined by Board-certified OBGYN and women’s health advocate Dr. Maria Sophocles to redefine sexual wellness in midlife. Dr. Sophocles provides a masterclass on female anatomy, using the "iceberg" metaphor to explain the complex structure of the clitoris and how its thousands of nerve endings are impacted by aging, estrogen loss, and cardiovascular health. We explore the biological and psychological roadblocks to orgasm—including the surprising link between heart health and orgasmic potential—and the vital role of the pelvic floor in sexual response. Whether you’re navigating menopause or looking to learn how to o...

Gerianne DiPiano (FemmePharma Founder & CEO) and Alison Bladh, a nutritionist specializing in women's health, explore the essential aspects of women's health, focusing on longevity and vitality. They discuss the concept of Blue Zones, regions where people live significantly longer, and the lifestyle habits that contribute to their health. Key topics include dietary practices, the importance of movement, rest, social connections, and the role of moderation in alcohol consumption. The conversation emphasizes practical tips for improving quality of life and longevity. Alison Bladh is a registered nutritional therapist, author, and member of FemmePharma's Medical Advisory Board. Check out Alison's new...

Gerianne DiPiano and Dr. Katherine Sherif discuss the critical topic of cervical cancer, primarily caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV). They explore the prevalence of HPV among women, the importance of vaccination, and the significance of regular screenings and pap smears in preventing cervical cancer. The conversation also covers symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for cervical cancer, emphasizing the need for awareness and proactive healthcare measures among women. Dr. Katherine Sherif is an internal medicine physician, a professor of medicine at Thomas Jefferson University, and FemmePharma Medical Advisory Council Member. For more information on women's health, visit the FemmePharma...

Gerianne DiPiano and Dr. Juliana Hauser delve into the complexities of modern dating, particularly for women navigating relationships in midlife. They discuss the importance of understanding one's agency, setting boundaries, and the significance of self-discovery in the dating process. The conversation also touches on the challenges of breakups, the role of sex and sexuality in new relationships, and practical tips for dating in today's world. The episode emphasizes the need for women to prioritize their own needs and desires while navigating the dating landscape. Dr. Juliana Hauser is a licensed therapist and is on the FemmePharma Medical Advisory Board...

This episode features an in-depth conversation between Gerianne DiPiano (FemmePharma Founder and CEO) and Dr. Sheryl Kingsberg, Division Chief, Behavioral Medicine at McDonald Women's Hospital, who brings her expertise in women's health and sexual medicine to discuss vaginismus and dyspareunia. Dr. Kingsberg introduces Materna Medical's Milli dilator, an innovative, expandable device that addresses these conditions. Milli allows women to have complete control over the use of the dilator, greatly reducing anxiety. She discusses the results of the POMPOM study, which demonstrates Milli's high efficacy across various age groups, including women who had previous negative experiences with static dilators. Ultimately...

In this episode of the Love Mia Vita podcast, Gerie DiPiano and Dr. Courtney Schreiber discuss the groundbreaking Pregnancy Early Access Center at the University of Pennsylvania, which provides comprehensive care for women during early pregnancy. The conversation highlights the importance of early access to care, the challenges faced by women, particularly those from marginalized communities, and the need for building trust in patient-provider relationships. Dr. Schreiber emphasizes the significance of addressing health disparities and the impact of trauma-informed care in improving outcomes for women. To learn more about the PEACE program, visit https://peace.med.upenn.edu/peace-team/<...

What can a Mammogram tell you about your heart health? Join Gerianne DiPiano and her co-host, Dr. Katherine Sherif, as they discuss the critical link between breast arterial calcifications and heart health. Dr. Sherif explains how mammograms can reveal important information about cardiovascular health, particularly for women as they age. The conversation covers the implications of breast arterial calcifications, the importance of understanding risk factors for heart disease, and the need for women to advocate for their health by requesting detailed reports from their mammograms. We also emphasize the need for women to understand risk factors for heart disease...

Wondering if your period is "normal"? Vaginal bleeding can be confusing and concerning, but this episode is here to bring clarity. Dr. Shawana Moore, a Women’s Health Nurse Practitioner and FemmePharma Medical Advisory Council Member, demystifies the menstrual cycle, from what's typical to the red flags you shouldn't ignore. Uncover the potential causes of abnormal bleeding—including endometriosis, fibroids, and post-menopausal concerns—and learn the single most important tool for advocating for yourself at the doctor's office. Tune in to gain the confidence and knowledge to take control of your reproductive health. For more information on women's health, visit...

What is the one thing you absolutely can’t live without? According to therapist and author Dr. Juliana Hauser, it’s not love, health, or even happiness — it’s connection. In this electric episode, Gerianne DiPiano and Dr. Hauser dive into this foundational principle from her book, A New Position on Sex, revealing a profound truth from her practice: "You can live a long time in pain, but you can't live a long time without connection and purpose." Tune in to discover why vulnerability is your superpower, how to find your place in a lonely world, and the secrets to build...

This episode of the Love, Mia Vita podcast features an insightful conversation with Dr. Victoria Clement, a pelvic floor physical therapist. They discuss the common and often embarrassing issue of urinary incontinence in women. Dr. Clement breaks down the different types—stress, urge, and mixed—and explains that this condition isn't just for older women; it can affect female athletes, new mothers, and even those who've had abdominal or hip surgeries. The conversation provides hope by highlighting how specialized pelvic floor physical therapy (PT) can be a highly effective treatment, offering personalized, non-invasive solutions to help women regain control and...

Gerianne DiPiano (FemmePharma founder & CEO) and her guest Dr Hardas discuss Cosmetic Gynecology. Listen to learn what is covered in cosmetic gynecology and who these procedures can help. What techniques are used, who are the professionals performing the procedures, and how to find the right doctor if you think this can help your sexual health. Dr. Mona Hardas is a board-certified OB-GYN offering gynecological care and aesthetic treatments in Flint, Bloomfield Hills and NYC.

Join Gerianne DiPiano (FemmePharma Founder & CEO), as she dives into a truly transformative conversation with Dr. Juliana Hauser, a renowned author and expert in human sexuality. Dr. Hauser discusses her groundbreaking new book, A New Position on Sex. Drawing on her extensive background and education, she shares her compelling reasons for writing this book—a guide designed to help individuals create a more compassionate, authentic, and liberated life. Dr. Hauser explains how A New Position on Sex is more than just a book about intimacy; it's a journey of self-discovery that empowers you to live with greater compassion, reconnect wi...

Steve Bollinger is the Founder & CEO of Ovala, Inc. They are the creator of the Revive Reusable Bladder Support, a new solution for Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI). Stress urinary incontinence occurs when physical activity or movement exerts pressure on the bladder, leading to urine leakage. SUI is common, and is estimated to occur in one out of three women. To learn more, check out the Revive website: https://userevive.com/

As you approach your 40th birthday, it's the perfect time to start thinking about some important screenings that can help you stay healthy for years to come. Listen to Gerianne DiPiano and her co-host, Dr. Katherine Sherif, review some diagnostic tests you might want to discuss with your doctor around the time you turn 40. These diagnostic tests are designed to catch potential issues early, when they're often easiest to address. Dr. Sherif is a board-certified internist, Director of Women’s Primary Care at Jefferson University, and member of FemmePharma's Medical Advisory Board. For additional information, check out https://www.ps...

Join Gerianne DiPiano and Dr. Juliana Hauser as they tackle surgical menopause, a topic Dr. Hauser intimately understands. Learn how to build your ideal support team and advocate for yourself. If you're facing surgical menopause, or supporting someone who is, tune in to gain essential insights to help you prepare, heal, and move forward with confidence.

Gerianne DiPiano is joined by Perri Shaw Borish, licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), BCD, PMH-C to discuss Postpartum Depression and Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder (PMAD). Anxiety, OCD, and depression can occur for women during their pregnancy and postpartum time. Learn how to recognize the symptoms in yourself, your loved ones, or your patients, as well as how to find help. Perri Shaw Borish is a Board Certified, Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20 years experience in maternal mental health. She is the founder and Psychotherapist at Whole Heart Reproductive Mental Health (formerly Whole Heart Maternal Mental Health) https://wholeheartreproductivementalhealth...

Gerianne DiPiano and Dr. C. Nicole Swiner discuss the book "Doctoring, Better: 11 Top Physician Coaches Reveal Secrets for Helping Others Create Better Lives". Dr. Swiner talks about her role in writing the book and how doctors are feeling the strain of modern medicine. They go in depth about the complexities of handling business, guilt, stress, and caring for patients, all in addition to maintaining a personal life. All women - healthcare professionals as well as the rest of us - can benefit greatly from learning to create boundaries and give ourselves more grace.

Check out the book...

Gerianne DiPiano looks back at an amazing 100 Episodes of the Love, Mia Vita Podcast. Dr. Katherine Sherif, Alison Bladh, & Dr. C. Nicole Swiner join Gerie to recall their favorite moments in the last 4 years. What was your favorite episode?

GLP-1 medications are becoming more common for weight management, but they can have long-term effects on your gut health. Gerianne DiPiano is joined by Alison Bladh, a nutritional therapist who has worked in the health and wellness industry for over 30 years. They discuss the right foods to eat while taking - and after stopping - GLP-1 medications. Discover how to make sure you're getting a balanced diet with nutrient-rich foods to support your blood sugar, digestion, and side effects. Learn how to maintain your weight and digestion after you've stopped taking the medications.

Alison Bladh is a...

Join Gerianne DiPiano and her co-host, Dr. Katherine Sherif, as they delve into the lesser-known subject of Iron Deficiency Without Anemia (IDWA). Discover how this condition frequently goes undiagnosed due to its symptoms, which can often mimic those of perimenopause. Understand the vital roles of iron and ferritin in your body while learning about the causes of IDWA. Most importantly, recognize when to consult your doctor for low iron testing.

For a complete visual presentation, be sure to check out the full video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_EpY-IoB-pk

FemmePharma Founder & CEO Gerianne DiPiano is joined by Dr. Juliana Hauser to discuss mental health matters related to perimenopause and menopause. Mental health during this transition time is often overlooked, with a significant lack of research in the area. Find out why there is a pressing need for healthcare providers to be educated about menopause and its mental health implications. Learn about the survey we are jointly conducting to learn from women and why this data is crucial for advancing women's health research. We are looking for a diverse group of women to be a part of this free...