Healthful Roots

If you've ever been told that hormones are dangerous, that testosterone is just for men, or that HRT will give you cancer — this episode is for you. In this solo deep-dive, Dr. Victoria Andarcia breaks down 10 of the most common hormone myths she hears from patients every single week. From the difference between vaginal estrogen and the patch, to why "I tried HRT once and it didn't work" is a star...

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Susan Caroline — a PhD in Metaphysical Science — to have the kind of conversation that just might change how you see yourself. We're talking about things like why living in the present moment actually matters, the idea that we are so much more than just a physical body, and how the way we interpret what's happening in our lives can either hold us back or set u...

Episode 42. Female Friendships, Emotional Intimacy & Navigating Disconnection with Dr. Alaa Ahmed Have you ever felt like you were drifting apart from your partner but couldn't quite explain why? Or noticed that when your friendships start to fade, everything else feels a little harder too? In this episode, I'm sitting down with psychiatrist Dr. Alaa Ahmed for a conversation that honestly felt...

You're sleeping. You're working out. You haven't changed a thing. And somehow you're still waking up at 3am, gaining weight, and feeling like a stranger in your own body. Your doctor says everything looks fine. It's not fine. And it's not in your head. 🤍 I recorded this episode because I have been her. And because every single week I sit across from women who are brilliant, capable, and completel...

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Aryn Delaney, Doctor of Physical Therapy with advanced training in pelvic floor rehabilitation, to demystify pelvic floor therapy and why it’s such a missing piece in women’s health. We break down what the pelvic floor actually is, how it impacts bladder control, organ support, sexual function, and even core stability, and how stress and trauma can show up phys...

In this episode, I sit down with my colleague Angela Jordan, who specializes in treating some of the most complex cases in medicine — including cancer, chronic disease, tickborne illness, and viral reactivation. This episode is especially helpful if you or someone you love is dealing with a diagnosis that feels overwhelming, confusing, or hasn’t responded to conventional care alone — or if you’re...

In this episode, I’m joined by my friend and colleague Sandy Arthur, founder of Well Co. Chiropractic and Active Release. Sandy is a chiropractor who also practices acupuncture and Active Release Technique (ART), which gives her a truly whole-body approach to pain, tension, and movement. We talk about what integrative care really looks like, why focusing on just one area of the body often isn’t en...

This week the mic gets turned on me — literally. My sister, Christa, joins the show and asks me the questions. From why I chose to go to medical school, to the moments that almost made me quit, to how my personal life shaped the way I practice today… nothing was off limits. If you’ve ever wondered who I am beyond the doctor titles and hormone protocols — this is the one to listen to.

In this solo episode, I talk through some of the most common misconceptions I continue to hear from women. This isn’t about pushing hormone therapy or dismissing concerns. It’s about helping you understand: Why hormones became such a charged topic in women’s health and how to approach hormone conversations with less fear and more clarity. If hormones feel overwhelming or confusing, this episode is...

This week’s episode is a heart-to-heart with two of my best friends—one pregnant with her first baby and the other already navigating life as a mom of two. We talk about what they expected versus what actually happened, the physical and emotional changes, identity shifts, asking for help, and how to stay connected to yourself through it all. It’s honest, funny at times, and incredibly real. Whethe...

If you missed my recent webinar, here’s your chance to catch the replay! In this episode, we dive into everything you need to know about navigating the transition through perimenopause and menopause — from understanding symptoms and hormone shifts to exploring treatment options and lifestyle strategies that actually make a difference. Whether you’re starting to notice changes or are already in the...

Menopause brings big changes — and two of the most common (but least talked about) are bone health and pain with sex. In this episode, Dr. Victoria Andarcia breaks down why bone density matters, what’s happening with estrogen during this stage of life, and why vaginal dryness and discomfort are so common. Most importantly, you’ll learn practical, empowering ways to protect your bones, ease intimac...

In this episode, I sit down with Gail Gerbig from Seaside Mental Wellness to talk about mental health during perimenopause and menopause. We explore why these transitions can impact mood and anxiety, practical ways to support your mental well-being, and how to recognize when it’s time to seek professional help. Whether you’re navigating these changes yourself or supporting someone who is, this con...

Death is the one appointment we all keep—and yet, it’s the one topic most of us avoid. In this episode, I sit down with Lara Acemyan, a death doula from @floridaangelcare to talk candidly about what it really means to hold space at the end of life. We explore the art of dying well, how a death doula supports individuals and families through one of life’s most vulnerable transitions, and why gettin...

Hair thinning? Low energy? Weight gain that won’t budge—even with diet and exercise? These aren’t just signs of a busy life. They might point to an underactive thyroid—a condition that affects 1 in 8 women, yet often goes undiagnosed or undertreated. In this episode, I sit down with Jessica Simone, APRN from Harmony Med Spa, to talk all things thyroid health. We cover: The most overlooked symptoms...

Have you ever gone through an entire day and realized you didn’t really feel anything? If you’ve been stuck in autopilot—constantly busy, always doing, but quietly disconnected—this episode is for you. In this deeply grounding conversation, I talk with Alissa from Root Collective, a yoga teacher and embodiment coach, about the emotional cost of our fast-paced lives. We explore how suppressing emot...

In this episode, I sit down with Nicole Lanni—a Nutritionist, Certified Health Coach, and Functional Blood Work Specialist—who’s on a mission to help people get to the root of their health struggles. Nicole shares her own healing journey, which began when conventional medicine fell short in addressing her symptoms. Now, she empowers others to take control of their health through personalized nutri...

In this special anniversary episode, Dr. Victoria Andarcia is joined by clarity coach Keltie McGuire to explore one of the most personal and often overwhelming questions women face: Do I want to have children? Together we dive into the emotional layers, societal expectations, and partnership dynamics that shape this decision. Keltie walks us through the process she uses to help women gain clarity—...

I’m joined by Caren Carnegie, an Intuitive Momentum Coach who began her journey through movement and strength training, and discovered a deeper spiritual path through the connection to her body. Together, we explore how true healing happens when we learn to pause, feel, and reconnect with ourselves. Caren on IG: https://www.instagram.com/carencarnegiefitness/ Website: https://transformfitnesscoach...

"I felt like I was losing myself every month—until I took my healing into my own hands." In this episode, I sit down with Ashley Rocha, a trained herbalist who spent years struggling with PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder)—a condition that turned half of every month into a battle with debilitating mood swings, fatigue, and hormonal chaos. Despite seeking help from Western medicine, she was met...

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Isabelle Amigues, a rheumatologist whose world was turned upside down after being diagnosed with Stage 4 breast cancer. Instead of just fighting the illness, she asked herself a profound question: “What is this here to teach me?” Dr. Amigues shares how her experience transformed the way she views illness—not only for herself but for her patients. We discuss the...

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Maria Dona, MD, a leading perinatal psychiatrist, to discuss the mental health challenges of the perinatal period (before, during and postpartum). Dr. Dona shares her expert insights on postpartum depression, anxiety, and the impact of stress and sleep on mental health. We also explore when to seek help, how therapy and medications can support parents, and acti...

In this episode of Healthy Roots, I sit down with Dr. Marie Dona, a board-certified psychiatrist, to explore the often-overlooked mental health challenges that come with pregnancy, postpartum, and motherhood. We dive into postpartum depression, anxiety, intrusive thoughts, and the hormonal shifts that impact mental well-being during this transformative period. Dr. Dona shares her expertise on reco...

Breast cancer rates are rising, and while some risk factors are beyond our control, there’s a lot we can do to be proactive. In this episode, breast surgeon Dr. Lauren Ramsey joins me to break down the importance of early detection, how to do a proper self-breast exam, and common misconceptions about breast cancer. We also discuss lifestyle factors—like hormone-disrupting toxins, diet, and stress—...

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Nataliya Bocharova to dive into the fascinating world of anti-aging medicine. We explore cutting-edge therapies like exosomes, gene therapy, and regenerative medicine, plus some of her favorite wellness hacks to optimize longevity and vitality. Whether you're curious about the science behind aging or looking for actionable tips to feel your best, this conversat...