The Wellness Conversation

A glass of wine after work. A toast at a friend's birthday dinner. For a lot of women in their thirties and forties, alcohol is woven into the rhythm of everyday life. But is your body processing the drink the same way it did a decade ago? In this episode Marcus Thorpe and Katie Lowe sit down with Dr. William Resch to talk about how alcohol uniquely affects women's hormones, liver function, and heart health, plus long term risks.

Becoming a mother is one of the most profound experiences a person can go through. But what happens when the joy of a new baby collides with exhaustion, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm? In the episode host Katie Lowe opens up about her personal postpartum experience, sharing the realities of sleep deprivation, identity shifts, and the emotional weight of welcoming a second child. She is joined in this episode by Co-host Marcus Thorpe and OhioHealth psychiatrist Dr. Kristen Kilbarger.

Eating disorders affect millions of people across all ages, genders, and backgrounds, yet they remain widely misunderstood. Whether you are navigating this personally or supporting someone you love, this conversation offers clarity, compassion, and practical guidance.

Magnesium for sleep. Collagen for your skin. Vitamin D, probiotics, fish oil, and don’t forget the multivitamin. The supplement aisle is packed with products promising to make us healthier. But which ones actually work—and which ones are mostly hype? And for women in particular, are there certain supplements we should be paying attention to? 

 
We’re separating supplement fact from fiction with OhioHealth’s Dr. Jaynine Vado. That’s next on The Wellness Conversation, an OhioHealth podcast.

GLP-1 medications have become one of the biggest topics in healthcare. From television commercials and social media to conversations with friends and family, it seems everyone has questions. But what are these medications, who are they designed to help, and are they the right choice for everyone? In this episode of The Wellness Conversation, Marcus Thorpe and Katie Lowe sit down with OhioHealth's Medical Director of Bariatric Surgery, Dr. Tom Sonnanstine to separate fact from fiction for GLP-1 medications.

More women than ever are picking up weights, and for good reason. But the road to get here was long. We explore how women's relationship with weightlifting has evolved over the decades and what that means for women's health today.

Puberty is a milestone every child experiences, but no two journeys look exactly alike. From growth spurts and changing bodies to shifting emotions and new questions, it can be an exciting, and sometimes overwhelming, time for kids and parents alike. 

In this episode of The Wellness Conversation, Marcus Thorpe and Katie Lowe sit down with OhioHealth physician Dr. Natalie Dick to discuss what parents should know about puberty, when it typically begins, how it differs for boys and girls, and why comparing children to their classmates can cause unnecessary worry. They also share practical advice for starting conv...

Gut health affects far more than digestion — especially for women. In this episode of The Wellness Conversation, we sit down with Maddie Bidwell from OhioHealth to explore how the gut influences hormones, mood, immunity, metabolism, and overall well-being. 

From bloating and IBS to the gut-brain connection and hormonal shifts across life stages, Maddie breaks down what’s normal, what’s not, and when to seek care. She also shares practical, evidence-based steps women can take today to support their microbiome,  including nutrition, stress management, sleep, and movement. 

If you’ve ever wondered whether your fatigue, mood swings, or stubborn d...

If you’re sleeping but still exhausted, something else is going on. We unpack the hidden causes of fatigue — from hormones, to stress, to inflammation — and how to actually fix it.  

Mid-life is often misunderstood as a period of decline.  But for many women, it’s actually a powerful transition filled with change, clarity, and opportunity. In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Elizabeth Koffler to unpack what’s really happening in women’s bodies and lives during mid-life; hormonal shifts and physical changes to evolving priorities, mental health, and identity. Together, we explore how women can better understand their health, advocate for themselves, and embrace this stage with strength, knowledge, and confidence.

This podcast episode of The Wellness Conversation dives into the topic of chronic inflammation, exploring its subtle symptoms, such as fatigue and mood changes, and its links to serious health risks like heart disease and diabetes. Dr. Jennifer Middleton, an OhioHealth family medicine physician, breaks down what you need to know in order to navigate this often overlooked condition, and practical tips for managing it through diet, exercise, and stress reduction.

Sexual health changes over time, but many women aren’t prepared for how or why. In this episode, Dr. Cassandra Gray explores desire, discomfort, hormones, and the factors that influence intimate well-being. Learn how to better understand your body and advocate for your needs. 

In this episode of The Wellness Conversation – an OhioHealth Podcast, hosts Marcus Thorpe and Katie Lowe are joined by Dr. Sarah Froman, an OB/GYN with OhioHealth, to tackle the often-overlooked topic of vaginal health. Together, they break down myths, address common misconceptions, and empower listeners to take charge of their wellness. Dr. Froman discusses why confusion persists around this subject, how vaginal health changes with age, and provides actionable tips for maintaining vaginal health. 

Pelvic floor health affects everything from bladder control to core strength and confidence, but it’s often overlooked or misunderstood. In this episode, Dr. Nicole Book explains what changes as women age and how to recognize early signs of dysfunction. Learn what you can do now to protect your body and improve your quality of life long-term.

What if you could navigate pregnancy with more confidence, connection, and support? In this heartfelt episode of The Wellness Conversation, an OhioHealth podcast, we’re diving into the real-life journey of pregnancy with our new co-host, Katie, who’s expecting her second daughter. Together with host Marcus and special guest Dr. Stephanie McGill, an OB-GYN at OhioHealth Riverside Methodist Hospital, we explore the physical, emotional, and mental challenges of pregnancy — and how to prepare for the big day and beyond. 

Sleep is one of the most powerful influences on our overall health, and Dr. Richard Ko joins us to break down how to strengthen it. What drives truly restorative rest, why men and women experience sleep differently, and how lifestyle habits, stress, and environment can quietly undermine sleep quality? The episode highlights common disruptors like apnea, hormonal shifts, nighttime scrolling, and irregular routines. Dr. Ko also explores trending topics such as supplements, wearables, and the impact of mental health on sleep.

One of our most downloaded episodes of 2025 is back because the conversation about women and heart health is far from over. In part two, we go deeper into the symptoms women overlook, the warning signs that don’t look like the “movie heart attack,” and the everyday habits that quietly shape your long-term cardiovascular health. 

Dr. Anne Albers picks up where we left off to unpack new research, bust lingering myths, and explore why women’s heart health still isn’t getting the attention it deserves. We’ll talk about stress, hormones, lifestyle, genetics and how all of these interact u...

Protecting your heart starts long before you cook a meal — it begins in the grocery cart, and clinical dietitians Ciara Bartholomew and Nan Radabaugh join us to break down how to shop smarter. From what to look for on food labels, including sodium, added sugars, saturated fats, and sneaky marketing language, to navigating the store layout to your advantage and why certain aisles support better long-term heart health. The conversation dives into budget-friendly swaps, practical product examples, and choices that fit a busy lifestyle. By the end, listeners will feel empowered to make simple, sustainable changes that genuinely support heart...

What does it really take to achieve your biggest health goals — mentally and physically? In this inspiring episode, we sit down with local Olympian, Hannah Gaskins, who proves that greatness isn’t just for the podium. She shares the routines, mindset, and moments of self-doubt behind her journey — and how those same lessons can help you build strength, resilience, and confidence in your own life.

What if you could head into 2026 with a clear plan to prioritize your mental health? Here's a plan to protect your peace and feel more balanced -- no matter what life throws your way. We'll explore why women are feeling stretched way too thin, the problem with how we often treat stress and burnout as normal, and the payoff of setting realistic, intentional goals.

What if your 2026 goals weren’t just about doing more—but feeling your best? This episode of The Wellness Conversation, an OhioHealth podcast, is your ultimate women’s health checklist for the year ahead. We’re talking about caring for the whole you—from the cancer screenings that could save your life to how to start strength training (even if you’re new to it) and simple ways to make nutrition a daily priority. Join our experts from OhioHealth as they break down what women of every age should be thinking about when it comes to preventive care, movement, and mindful eating—beca...

Women’s health is constantly evolving, and so is the way that care is administered. On this episode of The Wellness Conversation, join us as we reflect on milestones and share what’s ahead at the OhioHealth Women’s Center — where we are helping to redefine care for women and offer support throughout every stage of life.

Battling cancer is a life-changing journey that no one wants to endure. This week, Heather Buck, OhioHealth VP of Patient Experience, shares her story about her personal battle with cancer. Through the support of her loved ones, care team and OhioHealth community, she has tackled unforeseen obstacles and showed the power of resilience during challenging times.

Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, impacts millions of people each year as daylight fades and routines shift. Symptoms like fatigue, irritability, changes in sleep, and even depression can make daily life difficult—especially around the holidays. Join OhioHealth psychiatrist Dr. Megan Schabbing as she shares why this happens, how light therapy, movement, and nutrition can help, and when to seek professional support. 

Grief doesn’t take a holiday. For many, this time of year can bring more heartache than joy. OhioHealth grief expert Jean O'Leary-Pyles joins Marcus and Lindsey to talk about coping and hope. We also hear the emotional story of Bernadette Wise. She has experienced grief in more ways than one, in a short amount of time. We discover the lessons she learned on her own journey forward.

Mobile healthcare is a game changer.  Especially for women’s health. In this episode of The Wellness Conversation Podcast, co-hosts Marcus Thorpe and Lindsey Gordon are learning all about Wellness on Wheels – OhioHealth’s fleet of mobile health units. Together, the team is breaking down barriers to prenatal care, mammograms, and more – one neighborhood at a time.

A breast cancer diagnosis changes everything.  But so does hope. This week, Marcus Thorpe and Lindsey Gordon talk with Dr. Natalie Jones about the journey from fear to recovery—and the hope that carries patients through.  There is shock of hearing ‘you have cancer’ there can also be the joy of life after recovery. Find your story of medical excellence, human connection, and the enduring power of hope.

From the soccer field to the workplace, concussions can happen anywhere. Dr. Ben Bring and Dr. Obi Moneme explain what concussions are, how they’re diagnosed, and the safest path back to normal life.

No sleep. Major life changes. Having a baby is overwhelming. Especially those first weeks with a newborn. In this episode of the Wellness Conversation, an OhioHealth Podcast – we’re revealing the best ways to support moms as they navigate what’s become known as, “the 4th trimester.”

Whether it’s burnout, anxiety, depression, or just the daily weight of trying to do it all — it’s time we stop pushing our mental and emotional health to the bottom of the list.  Dr. Laurie Hommema, Medical Director of Provider and Associate Well-being at OhioHealth has practical tips that allows you to focus on what truly matters, and how you can harness your positivity and energy to your benefit.

Women are managing careers, caregiving, side hustles, and personal passions - and they don't have time to be sidelined by long recoveries. But health can't wait. This episode empowers women with information about options that don't require putting their entire lives on pause.

Survivors of sexual violence – we stand with you. In this episode of The Wellness Conversation, an OhioHealth podcast – we’re joined by advocates and experts from SARNCO (Sexual Assault Response Network of Central Ohio) to talk about how support systems work, why trauma-informed care matters, and how anyone – whether it’s a friend, relative, or healthcare provider – can help create a space that says you’re safe here.

No matter what stage of life you are in - your OB/Gyn isn't just a doctor you see once a year. They are a vital partner in your lifelong health journey. In this episode - we explore why every woman deserves an OB/Gyn who truly listens, advocates, and shows up with empathy and expertise. But how do you find this provider who will have your back? Our experts reveal everything a woman should know to find the right fit.

More women are turning to weightlifting not just to build muscle, but to build resilience—physically and mentally. In this episode of The Wellness Conversation, our experts answer your questions! Strength training is gaining traction – we’ll cover everything from how women can safely begin a lifting routine – to the role of nutrition in building strength for long-term success.

Looking for more information to get started? Check out the OhioHealth Blog’s latest post on “How to Find Qualified Fitness and Nutrition Experts.” How to Find Qualified Fitness and Nutrition Experts – OhioHealth

Men are less likely to seek mental health treatment - and it's time to break the silence. This episode of OhioHealth's The Wellness Conversation podcast provides a better understanding of how to support the men in our lives - along with renewed hope that vulnerability can lead to resilience. Join the movement to normalize mental health care for everyone - because strong men ask for help.

Moms – we hear you! Moms are feeling burned out and exhausted. We don’t need a pep talk. We need real help! Physical and emotional support. Becoming a mother is both the best and the most difficult – all at the same time. In this episode of The Wellness Conversation, an OhioHealth Podcast, co-hosts Lindsey Gordon and Marcus Thorpe are getting real advice, that you can use now, from two doctors who specialize in supporting women at different stages of motherhood. 

Moms want to feel seen. Moms want to feel heard. On the next full episode of The Wellness Conversation, an OhioHealth Podcast, we’re talking about managing the mental load of a mom… because… the feeling of burn out is real.

The numbers are alarming. For women under the age of 50 – the risk of developing cancer is now more than 80% higher than it is for men in the same age group. But – is this because we are getting better at detecting cancer? On this episode of The Wellness Conversation, and OhioHealth Podcast, co-hosts Marcus Thorpe and Lindsey Gordon are joined by Kellie Rath, MD and Deepa Halaharvi, DO – for a deep dive (and deeply personal) discussion on all things cancer: from prevention, to detection and treatment, as well as optimism for women’s future.

We all have this in common: our skin changes as we age. In a world filled with products and procedures promising anti-aging benefits – what’s worth our while? Join us on The Wellness Conversation Podcast – as we take back ownership of how we want to age.

On this episode of The Wellness Conversation – it’s World Health Day -- and hosts Marcus Thorpe and Lindsey Gordon are joined by Dr. Joe Gastaldo to reflect on the 5-year mark of the pandemic and its lasting impact on global health. We’ll explore the lessons learned and the challenges that remain – and what this all means for you and your family.