Happy Bones, Happy Life

Are you experiencing poor sleep, anxiety, or stress even when your basic bloodwork looks normal? These concerns are common for women during and after menopause, but they don't have to be something you simply accept.

In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Doni Wilson, naturopathic doctor, clinical nutritionist, bestselling author, and women's health expert, to explore how stress, sleep, and other changes can relate to bone health and overall well-being.

We discuss how cortisol and the nervous system may influence sleep and mood, and why personalized testing and care can be helpful. Dr. Doni also...

You may be exercising, watching your nutrition, and taking steps to protect your bones, but are you paying attention to the things that can make your efforts more effective?

On this World Osteoporosis Day episode, I'm joined by my husband, Dr. Craig Bissinger, to share the often-overlooked pieces of a comprehensive bone-health plan.

We discuss bone turnover testing, why comparing DEXA results matters, and exercise components beyond lifting weights. We also explore nutrition, calcium, magnesium, vitamin K2, protein, and the connection between stress, happiness, and bones.

The best part? You don't have to...

Fear and confusion have surrounded hormone therapy for decades, especially since the Women's Health Initiative. But what really happened, what did the research show, and how did those findings shape the way women think about hormones today?

In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Felice Gersh, a double board-certified OB-GYN and integrative medicine physician, to discuss the history, the research, and the ongoing debate around hormone therapy and bone health.

We talk about why estrogen matters for bones, Dr. Gersh's take on what was misunderstood in the Women's Health Initiative, and why she believes progesterone...

You want to exercise for stronger bones, but with so much conflicting advice, how do you know what really works? Lift heavy, wear a weighted vest, jump, use vibration platforms, try special bone-building devices...how do you know which advice is supported by research?

In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Lora Giangregorio, a bone health and exercise science researcher, to separate the science from the hype. She is a professor and a Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Bone Health and Exercise Science at the University of Waterloo. She also leads the Bone Health and Exercise Science...

When we talk about osteoporosis, we often think about women, but men can develop osteoporosis too. And because it's frequently overlooked, many men don't discover they have a bone-health problem until after a fracture.

In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Tom Forfa, a medical doctor who was diagnosed with osteoporosis at just 37 after experiencing 13 fractures in 10 years. His experience led him to investigate the underlying factors affecting his bone health and ultimately turn things around.

We talk about why osteoporosis can be missed in men, potential risk factors including low testosterone, certain medications, malabsorption...

Did you know that Pilates could help you build strength, improve balance, and move with more confidence without compromising your bones?

In this episode, I'm joined by physical therapist and Pilates expert Dr. Lisa Grimmer to explore how we can safely combine Pilates with strength training for osteoporosis. We talk about why traditional Pilates exercises may need modifications, why avoiding spinal flexion matters, and how strength training can provide the additional stimulus our bones need over time.

Dr. Lisa also shares how to approach progression, balance, active warm-ups, and multidirectional movement. She demonstrates several Pilates-inspired...

What should you do after an osteoporosis diagnosis? There is so much information online about bone health, and it can be overwhelming to figure out what is safe and what is necessary. In this episode, I'm joined by my longtime colleague and patient advocate Sally Fullman to answer some of the most common osteoporosis questions we hear from our community.

We talk about where to start after an osteoporosis diagnosis, looking for root causes, and building the right care team. We also dive into calcium from food versus supplements, the types of calcium I prefer, what to...

Could being happier actually be good for your bones? Happiness may seem unrelated to bone health, but research suggests there's a fascinating connection between our emotional well-being, stress, and physical health.

In this conversation, I sit down with my mentor and one of the world's leading happiness experts, Marci Shimoff, to explore why happiness deserves a place in your bone-health journey and how you can become happier, even when life gets difficult.

Marci is a New York Times bestselling author whose books have sold more than 16 million copies worldwide, and her work has profoundly influenced...

What if osteoporosis and heart disease have more in common than we realize? In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Keith McCormick, a leading osteoporosis expert and author of Great Bones, to explore the shared roots of bone loss and cardiovascular disease. We dive into why these two conditions can appear together and what your bloodwork may reveal about what is happening beneath the surface.

Dr. McCormick takes us beyond the standard lab panel and explains why looking at patterns, trends, and hidden correlations matters when trying to understand the root causes of bone loss. We also...

Many people with osteoporosis focus on strength training but overlook another key piece of the puzzle: mobility. Today's guest explains why staying flexible, balanced, and confident in your movement is essential for stronger, healthier aging.

In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Justine Bernard, a physical therapist, Master Trainer of the Gyrotonic and Gyrokinesis movement methods, and creator of the Gyrotonic Exercise Applications for Osteoporosis course.

Justine shares how Gyrotonic and Gyrokinesis can be adapted for people with osteoporosis, combining mindful movement, breath, resistance, and functional mobility. She reminds us that the goal is to...

For so many people, the thought of memory loss or cognitive decline feels frightening. But today's guest shares an empowering message: there is so much we can do through our daily choices to support brain health and reduce risk.

I'm joined by Dr. David Perlmutter, board-certified neurologist, leading brain health expert, and bestselling author of Brain Defenders, to discuss what we can do today to protect our brains as we age.

We explore the important shift in how we understand brain health, looking at the bigger picture of immunometabolism, metabolic health, inflammation, and the environment...

Have you ever looked at a photo of yourself and wondered, "When did I start slouching?" The good news is that posture can improve at any age, and better posture can support stronger bones, better balance, and greater confidence.

In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Claudia Tamas, physical therapist, strength and conditioning specialist, and certified integrative bone health practitioner, along with Ruth McCurdy, who shares her inspiring posture transformation story. Together, we explore how improving alignment can influence your bones, balance, movement, and overall health.

Ruth's transformation shows what can happen when you stop...

Could insulin resistance be affecting your bone health? In this episode, I share an interview with Dr. Brian Mowll (better known as The Diabetes Coach™), founder and medical director of SweetLife® Diabetes Health Centers, to explore the hidden connection between insulin resistance, blood sugar, and bone health.

We discuss why many people may have insulin resistance for years before receiving a diabetes diagnosis and the importance of testing deeper than standard blood sugar markers.

We go over the tests that can provide more insight, including fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, triglycerides, and other markers that may reveal iss...

You don't need a fancy gym to build stronger bones. Learn how to create a simple home osteoporosis gym with the right equipment, exercises, and strength-training strategies to support balance, posture, and fracture prevention.

In this episode, I'm sharing a special interview and exercise demonstration from Joan Pagano, a renowned fitness expert and certified exercise physiologist specializing in women's health and active aging. She is also a best-selling author and has written seven books on the benefits of strength training across the decades.

Joan walks us through setting up your own home osteoporosis gym, including...

Did you know that there are simple habits, posture strategies, and exercises that can protect your bones for life? In this episode, I'm joined by Penny Shure, an osteoporosis exercise specialist and creator of the Million Dollar Bones program and book, to share practical habits for stronger bones at any age. Penny has trained in Pilates and dance and brings a fun, engaging approach to movement that works for everyone–from teens to grandparents.

Penny also teaches the importance of neutral pelvis, hip hinging, and posture to prevent fractures and maintain mobility. She walks through simple exercises fo...

New probiotic strains may hold the key to better gut health, stronger bones, and even longevity. In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Oscar Coetzee, a recognized expert in psychology, human nutrition, and metabolic health, to discuss the latest research on probiotics and bone health.

We explore why traditional probiotics may not always provide lasting results and how new strains are designed to target root causes of inflammation, optimize gut balance, and support calcium metabolism.

We also cover practical tips for implementing probiotics safely, including guidance on timing, dosage, and considerations for people with SIBO...

Can you reverse osteoporosis naturally? This is one of the most common questions I get asked. Today, I'm joined by Dr. Kim Millman as we explore what's truly possible when it comes to bone health. Together, we share what we've seen in clinical practice, what's realistic, and how to set proper expectations when it comes to improving bone density.

We discuss how natural therapies like bioidentical hormones, weight training, and root-cause interventions can meaningfully improve bone health over time. We walk through real case studies, including women who improved bone density through hormone optimization, structured strength training...

Many listeners ask whether foods like spinach, nuts, and beans could be affecting their calcium absorption and overall bone strength. Learn what's in these foods, how they work, and what you can do to reduce risk.

In this episode, I share a masterclass recording from Dr. Kim Millman, a Stanford, UCSF, and USC-trained integrative medicine physician and osteoporosis expert, to explore the role of oxalates and their impact on bone health.

We also cover strategies to reduce oxalate impact safely, including boiling, steaming, soaking, fermenting, and pairing high-oxalate foods with calcium-rich foods. We discuss how...

Are you wondering what's new in osteoporosis research for 2026? In this episode, I'm joined by my husband, Dr. Craig Bissinger, as we review the most exciting osteoporosis updates from 2026. We share insights from the Interdisciplinary Symposium on Osteoporosis in Washington, DC, covering everything from new medications and bone-building drugs to the latest research on estrogen therapy and early screening strategies.

We discuss the FDA's new endpoint for drug approval, which could speed up the availability of new medications like the oral version of Forteo. We also review the removal of the estrogen black box warning, showing that...

Could the electromagnetic fields (EMFs) in your environment be affecting your bone health? In this episode, I'm joined by Valerie Burke, also known as the "Shungite Queen," to explore the potential impact of EMFs on bone health and how shungite, a rare carbon-based rock from Russia, may help mitigate those effects.

We discuss the science, history, and properties of shungite, including its molecular structure with fullerenes and its unique interaction with electromagnetic fields. Valerie explains the ways EMFs may adversely affect bone health, including voltage-gated calcium channels, bone marrow interference, thyroid disruption, and decreased melatonin production.

Many women are not aware that the pelvic floor plays a key role in stabilization, posture, and overall bone health, whether you lift weights, practice balance exercises, or simply want to move confidently. In this episode, I'm joined by Isa Herrera, a licensed physical therapist and pelvic floor expert, to discuss why your pelvic floor is essential for strong bones.

We explore common mistakes women make, such as ignoring the connection between the core, fascia, and the pelvic floor. Isa walks us through exercises like the transverse hold, baby Kegels, and reverse Kegels, demonstrating how to safely...

Many people think there's a single "perfect" diet for bone health, but the truth is, what works for one person may not work for another. In this episode, I'm joined by Ashley Koff, a registered dietitian, USA Today bestselling author of Your Best Shot, and founder of The Better Nutrition Program, to explore why one-size-fits-all nutrition doesn't work for bone health.

We dive into the gut-bone axis, discussing how your digestion, nutrient absorption, and hydration impact whether your body can actually use the nutrients you consume to strengthen your bones. Ashley emphasizes that even if two people...

Are you exercising for osteoporosis but unsure if your program is truly effective? Many people miss key components that make all the difference in preventing fractures and building strong bones.

In this episode, I dive into the essentials of a complete osteoporosis exercise program. As a physical therapist with over 40 years of experience, I've seen so many women doing "good exercises" but still missing critical pieces that protect their bones and reduce fracture risk.

I break down the five core components every osteoporosis program should include and share practical tips for making these exercises effective...

Some of the biggest threats to your bone health may be hiding in foods you eat every single day, even foods marketed as "healthy." Today, I'm revisiting one of the most popular conversations ever on my YouTube channel with nutrition expert Mira Dessy, The Ingredient Guru. This information is simply too important not to share again.

We talk about the hidden ingredients commonly found in packaged and processed foods that may negatively affect both your bone health and your overall well-being. The good news? This episode is not about fear or perfection. It's about awareness and making...

Are you eating healthy but still missing the key nutrients your bones need? The truth is, it's not just what you eat, it's how you build your meals that makes a difference. In this episode, I'm joined by Ashley Ondrick, a personal chef, health coach, and author of the book Speranza: How Pain Became the Path to Hope, and she's here to talk about how to nourish your bones through simple, nutrient-dense nutrition.

First, we discuss why undereating and low nutrient intake, especially with trends like GLP-1 medications, can increase the risk of bone loss, even in...

Did you know your thyroid might be a hidden factor affecting your bone health? In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Hilda Maldonado, a renowned physician specializing in thyroid hormone and metabolic health for women over 40. Dr. Hilda has over 30 years of experience helping women understand their thyroid and its impact on bone health, especially after menopause.

We dive into the critical connection between the thyroid and bone health, exploring how low thyroid function can contribute to bone loss and increase your risk for fractures. Dr. Hilda explains why so many people are told their thyroid is...

Staying strong and independent can be a challenge as we age. Today, I'm excited to have Susan Servetnick, a physical therapist and osteoporosis specialist, talk about the importance of functional exercises for women with osteoporosis. Susan shares three must-do exercises that can help you stay independent, strong, and fracture-free, no matter your age.

The first exercise we cover is the hip hinge squat, which teaches you how to get out of a chair properly, activating your core, glutes, and legs without straining your back. Next, we dive into the step-back lunge, which helps you build leg strength...

Did you know your gut health could be the missing link to stronger bones after menopause? In this episode, I'm joined by Cynthia Thurlow, a nurse practitioner and nutrition expert specializing in perimenopause and menopause.

Cynthia's new book, The Menopause Gut, explores the powerful connection between gut health and bone health for women navigating menopause. We discuss the impact of hormonal changes on the gut microbiome and how this shift can influence bone density and overall health.

More importantly, Cynthia shares five strategies to strengthen your bones through gut health and nutrition. Don't miss this...

Did you know that your sleep is just as important as exercise and nutrition when it comes to bone health? Today, I'm thrilled to welcome back Dr. Audrey Wells, a triple board-certified sleep physician, Chief Medical Officer of SLIIIP.com, and an expert in the connection between sleep, menopause, and women's long-term health.

Dr. Wells shares how disrupted sleep can weaken bones, especially in women, and how improving sleep can directly benefit bone density and overall health. We discuss research that shows women who sleep five hours or less have significantly higher rates of bone loss and...

Did you know your gut microbiome can directly impact your bone health? In this episode, Dr. Emeran Mayer, a renowned gastroenterologist, neuroscientist, and professor at UCLA, reveals how the health of your gut can directly influence your bones, estrogen levels, and overall health.

Dr. Mayer explains how diverse fiber sources in your diet can support a healthy microbiome, and he shares fascinating new research on targeted probiotics that could help boost your body's estrogen production. We explore the role of your gut in reducing inflammation and how the microbiome helps recycle estrogen, which is crucial during and...

Are you looking for ways to protect your bones and live a vibrant life? In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. John Neustadt, a leading expert in bone health. We discuss what's new in osteoporosis and fracture prevention, and his recommendations for maintaining strong, fracture-proof bones.

Dr. Neustadt is the Founder and President of the dietary supplement company Nutritional Biochemistry, Inc. (NBII) and NBI Pharmaceuticals. He hosts the Delivering Health podcast, is a member of the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation's Corporate Advisory Roundtable, has authored five books and over 100 research reviews, and was recognized as a...

Osteoporosis medications are often seen as a "one-size-fits-all" solution. But did you know there's an integrative approach that combines medication with nutrition, exercise, and other therapies for better bone health? Let's dive into what you really need to know.

In this episode, I share my interview with Dr. Keith McCormick, a chiropractor and expert in osteoporosis. We talk about osteoporosis medications and their place in an integrative approach to bone health. Dr. McCormick, who's also the author of Great Bones, sheds light on when medications are appropriate, how they should be used, and how they can fit...

Did you know that IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) is not just about gut discomfort? It could be a root cause of osteoporosis.

In today's episode, I'm joined by Dr. Izabella Wentz, an integrative pharmacist and author of IBS: Finding and Treating the Root Cause of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. We explore how IBS can have a direct impact on your bone health, raising the risk of osteoporosis.

Izabella shares how IBS prevents proper nutrient absorption, which plays a significant role in weakening bones. We discuss the root causes of IBS and how these issues can trigger...

You might be working on your bone density, but are you training your balance in the right way to prevent falls and fractures?

Today, I'm talking about something that determines whether we stay independent and fracture-free as we age: balance. Yes, bone density matters, but preventing falls is what really protects us. I walk you through the three essential types of balance training.

I also dive into dual tasking and why this strengthens the brain-body connection while improving reaction time and coordination. This should not be confused with multitasking, which is known to increase fall...

Did you know that your posture plays a crucial role in your overall health? In case you missed it, we're bringing back one of our most popular episodes with Dr. Claudia Tamas, an expert in bone health and movement.

We cover some surprising facts, including the impact of posture and kyphosis on your vital organs and how certain postural changes are linked to decreased bone density. Dr. Claudia explains how a simple yet powerful exercise can actually increase bone density and prevent fractures, especially in the hip and femoral neck.

You'll also learn about key...

Did you know your skincare products could be affecting your bones and overall health? In this episode, I sit down with Cynthia Garcia, founder of Rewritten Beauty, as we dive into how the skincare products you use can impact your bones and overall health. Cynthia shares insights from her extensive research into the science of aging and the dangerous endocrine disruptors found in common beauty products. We discuss why skincare isn't just about appearance but also plays a role in your body's health, including the hormonal balance critical to maintaining strong bones.

Cynthia explains how aging (zombie...

Did you know that bone loss doesn't start in your bones but often starts with hidden inflammation? In this episode, you'll learn why bone density loss is often a downstream effect of systemic inflammation and how identifying root causes can shift your results. Today's guest, Dr. Ann Shippy, explains the connection among autoimmunity, nutrient absorption, and the body's repair mechanisms, and shares practical strategies to calm inflammation naturally.

By understanding the underlying biological drivers of bone loss, you can move beyond symptom management and begin rebuilding resilience from the inside out. This conversation offers a powerful reminder...

Confused about which osteoporosis supplements actually work and which ones may be doing more harm than good? In this episode, we clear up the supplement confusion as Dr. Kim Millman returns to discuss the most important supplements for osteoporosis and the common mistakes people make when taking them.

From calcium forms to magnesium ratios, vitamin D optimization, vitamin K2, genistein, and protein, we clarify what supports bone health and what could increase cardiovascular risk. Dr. Millman explains the "calcium paradox," why more calcium is not always better, and how to determine the right amount based on your...

Red light therapy has gained massive popularity, but many people don't understand how it works or how to use it correctly. In this episode, Ari Whitten, founder of The Energy Blueprint and author of The Ultimate Guide to Red Light Therapy, breaks down the science and explains how to use red light therapy safely and effectively for bone, joint, and muscle health.

We discuss the research showing how light therapy supports bone healing, speeds recovery after exercise or injury, reduces pain, and enhances tissue regeneration. Ari also exposes common mistakes people make when buying devices and why...

What if you could support your bone health naturally, without relying on traditional medications? In this episode, Dr. Kim Millman returns to explore the powerful connection between genistein and bone health. Genistein, a natural compound found in soy, has been shown to mimic estrogen in the body, offering promising benefits for those struggling with osteoporosis and bone density loss.

Dr. Millman dives into the research behind genistein, explaining how it supports bone formation and reduces bone resorption, making it a great natural alternative for those looking to improve bone health.

With solid research backing its...