Empowered + Well

Amanda & Lauren
  • 5.0 (4)
  • NUTRITION
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Hi friends! Lauren & Amanda here. We are so excited to share our podcast, Empowered + Well! The platform will serve as a space for us to join forces and cover all things wellness for women. Together we bring you over 20 years of experience in the health & fitness space and we can't wait to share it all - with great guests along the way! Our goal is to empower you to find your strength so you can be truly unstoppable.

  1. Respectfully, I Disagree

    FEB 26

    Respectfully, I Disagree

    Podcast Description In today's episode of Empowered & Well, we dive into a surprisingly spicy topic in the wellness world: disagreement. Somewhere along the way, having a different opinion about training, nutrition, or health started to feel like a personal attack. But here's the truth: you can train differently, prioritize different goals, interpret research differently… and still respect each other. This episode isn't about proving who's "right." It's about learning how to hold nuance, think critically, and have mature conversations in a space that often rewards extremes. We explore why disagreement can feel so personal, how identity and lived experience shape our beliefs, and how to communicate more supportively—especially when wellness advice gets loud (and confusing) on social media. You'll also hear a fun "playful debate" where we argue both sides of data-driven tracking vs. body-based feedback—and land on the idea that awareness matters more than picking a team. If you've ever thought, "Why does everyone have to be so intense about this?"… this one's for you. In this episode, we cover: Why disagreement in wellness can feel personal (and how to detach from the ego a bit) How to separate evidence, experience, and identity Language shifts that help you disagree without being a jerk "Let them" energy: letting people choose what works for them A debate: Garmin/Whoop/MyFitnessPal vs. intuition and body cues Why context matters more than absolutes—and why you're allowed to change your mind If this episode resonates, please like, subscribe, share, and send it to a friend who needs a gentle reminder that respectful disagreement is still a thing. Connect With Us: Lauren Brown Instagram: @settingthepacenj Website Amanda Gargiulo Instagram: @amanda.gargiulo Website Follow us on YouTube: Empowered Wellness Project Additional Support: Breast cancer thriver or caretaker looking for support? Check out Amanda's FREE guide: 5 Key Strategies to Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer Recurrence

    42 min
  2. Perimenopause Series - Episode 3: The Symptoms You Didn't Know Were Hormone-Related

    FEB 19

    Perimenopause Series - Episode 3: The Symptoms You Didn't Know Were Hormone-Related

    So many women are navigating confusing symptoms — anxiety, brain fog, sleep disruption, weight changes, low stress tolerance — without ever being told they could be hormone-related. In this episode of Empowered & Well, we continue our Perimenopause Series with a powerful conversation featuring O'Shea, a wellness expert specializing in hormones, cortisol, and stress. Together, we unpack what perimenopause actually is, why it's often missed or dismissed, and how stress and lifestyle factors can amplify symptoms long before menopause officially begins. This episode is equal parts educational, validating, and empowering, designed to help you stop second-guessing your body and start understanding what it's asking for. ✨We Cover: What perimenopause really is (and what it isn't) Surprising symptoms many women never connect to hormones The overlap between stress, cortisol, and hormone shifts Why high-achieving, busy women often struggle more during this phase 📚 Resources Mentioned: The Glucose Revolution The XX Brain The Body Keeps the Score 🤝 Connect with O'Shea Instagram: @wellnesswithoshea If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend — because chances are, someone in your life is experiencing these changes too, even if they haven't put words to it yet. Connect With Us: Lauren Brown Instagram: @settingthepacenj Website Amanda Gargiulo Instagram: @amanda.gargiulo Website Follow us on YouTube: Empowered Wellness Project Additional Support: Breast cancer thriver or caretaker looking for support? Check out Amanda's FREE guide: 5 Key Strategies to Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer Recurrence Edited by Bold Media Films

    41 min
  3. Perimenopause Series - Episode 2: Hormones, HRT and Real Talk with Dr. Ashley Chauvin, ND

    FEB 12

    Perimenopause Series - Episode 2: Hormones, HRT and Real Talk with Dr. Ashley Chauvin, ND

    If you've been feeling a little "off" — physically, emotionally, or mentally — and wondering whether it's stress, burnout, or something more… this episode is for you. In this conversation, we continue our Perimenopause Series by breaking down what perimenopause actually is, what's happening hormonally, and how women can support themselves through this transition with clarity, confidence, and compassion — not fear. We're joined by Dr. Ashley Chauvin, a Naturopathic Doctor and Menopause Society Certified Practitioner based in Burlington, Ontario, who specializes in hormone health and helping women navigate midlife transitions in an individualized, evidence-informed way. ✨ We Discuss: Early signs and symptoms What hormone replacement therapy (HRT) actually is — and what it isn't Lifestyle strategies that support hormone balance and nervous system regulation What to do if you suspect you're in perimenopause but haven't talked to a provider yet ❤️ Final Thoughts Perimenopause is not something to power through quietly. It's a transition that deserves education, support, and compassion. Whether that support comes through lifestyle shifts, nervous system regulation, hormone therapy, or simply being believed — you have options. You are not broken. You are not failing. Your body is communicating — and learning how to listen is an act of self-trust. 🔗 Resources Mentioned Menopause Society Menopause Chicks  The Menopause Manifesto  Estrogen Matters  🤝 Connect with Dr. Ashley Instagram: @ashleychauvin_nd Website: drashleychauvin.com If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend — because chances are, someone in your life is experiencing these changes too, even if they haven't put words to it yet. Connect With Us: Lauren Brown Instagram: @settingthepacenj Website Amanda Gargiulo Instagram: @amanda.gargiulo Website Follow us on YouTube: Empowered Wellness Project Additional Support: Breast cancer thriver or caretaker looking for support? Check out Amanda's FREE guide: 5 Key Strategies to Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer Recurrence Edited by Bold Media Films

    51 min
  4. Perimenopause Series — Episode 1: Nervous System Regulation with Carly Catherine

    FEB 5

    Perimenopause Series — Episode 1: Nervous System Regulation with Carly Catherine

    Perimenopause isn't something to "fix" — it's a transition to understand. In this first episode of our Perimenopause Series, we're zooming out from symptom-chasing and starting where so many women are actually struggling: the nervous system. Joined by perimenopause expert Carly Catherine, we explore why anxiety, sleep disruption, mood changes, burnout, and emotional reactivity aren't signs that your body is broken — but signals that your nervous system needs support, safety, and regulation during this phase of life. This conversation is grounding, validating, and deeply reassuring for any woman who's ever thought, "Why don't I feel like myself anymore?" ✨ In This Episode, We Cover: Why perimenopause is so often misunderstood — and brushed off as "just stress" How nervous system dysregulation shows up as anxiety, irritability, poor sleep, and overwhelm The difference between hormone imbalance and nervous-system-driven symptoms Why high-functioning, capable women are especially vulnerable during this transition 💛 A Compassionate Reframe If you've ever thought: "I'm becoming anxious for no reason" "I don't recognize myself anymore" "I should be handling this better" This episode is your reminder that this is a physiological shift, not a personality flaw. 🔮 What's Next This episode kicks off our Perimenopause Series, where we'll continue exploring this transition through multiple lenses — hormones, mindset, lifestyle, nutrition, emotional wellbeing, and more — because there is no one-size-fits-all approach. 📣 Loved This Episode? Share it with a friend who needs this conversation 📣 Want to chat with Carly? Instagram: @thecarlycatherine WEBSITE Connect With Us: Lauren Brown Instagram: @settingthepacenj Website Amanda Gargiulo Instagram: @amanda.gargiulo Website Follow us on YouTube: Empowered Wellness Project Additional Support: Breast cancer thriver or caretaker looking for support? Check out Amanda's FREE guide: 5 Key Strategies to Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer Recurrence Edited by Bold Media Films

    35 min
  5. Holistic Immune Support (Without the Overwhelm) with Maddie Lin

    JAN 29

    Holistic Immune Support (Without the Overwhelm) with Maddie Lin

    *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "faa5d94a-ee1a-4262-8967-8dc601373816" data-testid= "conversation-turn-4" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> Welcome back to The Empowered Wellness Project — where we break down wellness without the fear, the fads, or the perfectionism. In this episode, we're joined by Maddie Lin, Director of Program Delivery at FLOURISH, Certified Nutritional Practitioner, neuroscience and health promotion double major, mindfulness-trained practitioner — and cancer thriver. With cold and flu season here, we're talking all things immune health — beyond just "not getting sick." Maddie shares a grounded, science-meets-real-life approach to supporting your immune system through nutrition, sleep, stress, gut health, and supplements in a way that actually makes sense for your body. We cover: Common immune myths to stop believing Nutrition gaps we see most in winter (and why protein matters) The role of blood sugar, sleep, stress, and gut health in immunity Vitamin D, zinc, vitamin C, elderberry, probiotics, omega-3s & magnesium This episode is a reminder that immune health isn't about doing everything — it's about doing the right things for your body, your season, and your life. Disclaimer The information provided on this podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you heard on this podcast. Reliance on any information provided is solely at your own risk.   Want to connect with Maddie or learn more? Instagram: @madslinwellness   Connect With Us: Lauren Brown Instagram: @settingthepacenj Website Amanda Gargiulo Instagram: @amanda.gargiulo Website Follow us on YouTube: Empowered Wellness Project Additional Support: Breast cancer thriver or caretaker looking for support? Check out Amanda's FREE guide: 5 Key Strategies to Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer Recurrence Edited by Bold Media Films

    39 min
  6. Routines vs. Rituals: Why Consistency Doesn't Have to Feel Confining

    JAN 21

    Routines vs. Rituals: Why Consistency Doesn't Have to Feel Confining

    If you've ever felt like you're constantly "falling off" your wellness routine — or that consistency feels amazing for a week and then completely unsustainable — this episode is for you. In today's conversation, we're reframing the pressure-filled idea of routines and exploring a softer, more supportive approach: rituals. Many wellness routines are built around rigidity, productivity, and perfection, which can actually create more stress than support. Rituals, on the other hand, are intention-driven, emotionally rewarding, and adaptable — making consistency feel nourishing instead of confining. This episode isn't about doing more. It's about doing what actually supports your nervous system, your season of life, and your capacity. In This Episode, We Cover: The key differences between routines and rituals Why rigid routines often trigger all-or-nothing thinking, guilt, and burnout How rituals support nervous system regulation and long-term consistency Why discipline without reward isn't sustainable How flexibility can actually strengthen your wellness habits Examples of reframing common wellness routines into meaningful rituals Simple questions to help you create rituals that feel supportive, not pressuring You'll Hear Us Talk About: Letting go of the "if I can't do it perfectly, I won't do it at all" mindset Why wellness shouldn't feel like another job How rituals can serve as grounding anchors during busy or stressful seasons Creating habits based on how something feels — not how it looks on a checklist Reflection Prompt for the Week: What's one rigid routine you can release — and what's one simple ritual you can return to when life feels full? If this episode resonated, please share it with someone who might need permission to soften their approach to wellness. And don't forget to follow, rate, and review The Empowered Wellness Project — it truly helps us reach more listeners. Questions, feedback, and future show ideas can be sent to us at ewwp.podcast@gmail.com. Want to Work With Us — or Join the Membership? For just $5/month, you can become part of The EWP Community and receive: Exclusive content Customized workouts Recipe drops Opportunities for live one-on-one coaching And so much more Click the link to join and be part of the fun. Connect With Us: Lauren Brown Instagram: @settingthepacenj Website Amanda Gargiulo Instagram: @amanda.gargiulo Website Follow us on YouTube: Empowered Wellness Project Additional Support: Breast cancer thriver or caretaker looking for support? Check out Amanda's FREE guide: 5 Key Strategies to Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer Recurrence Edited by Bold Media Films

    29 min
  7. 15 Days In: When "New Year, New You" Loses Its Spark — Now What?

    JAN 15

    15 Days In: When "New Year, New You" Loses Its Spark — Now What?

    15 days into the new year and the motivation is already fading? You're not alone. In this episode, we unpack why "New Year, New You" energy disappears so fast — and how to keep showing up anyway by building sustainable habits, aligning goals with real life, and redefining success beyond motivation. *]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "4666c363-1bb1-4f5c-b1a4-483fbb964af4" data-testid= "conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn= "assistant"> In This Episode, We Cover: Why motivation peaks on January 1st How to Keep Going When the Excitement Fades Reframing the Mid-January Slump 🎧 Stay tuned for our next episode, where we'll talk about accountability — why it can be the missing piece, and how putting something on the calendar might change everything. Check out these past episodes we mentioned: The ONE thing with Coach April Spilde Pregnancy, Postpartum & Fitness with Coach Jenny Wilder If this episode resonated, please share it with someone who might need it — and don't forget to follow, rate, and review The Empowered Wellness Project. Questions and show ideas can be sent to our contacts below or ewwp.podcast@gmail.com Want to work with us,  OR JOIN THE MEMBERSHIP?! - For only $5/month you can be part of The EWP Community and receive access to exclusive content, customized workouts, recipe drops, a chance to receive one-on-one coaching LIVE and SO MUCH MORE. Click the link to be part of the fun! Give us a follow... Lauren Brown IG@settingthepacenj Website Amanda Gargiulo IG@amanda.gargiulo Website EWP Youtube Breast Cancer Thriver or caretaker looking for support? Check out Amanda's FREE guide: 5 Key Strategies to Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer Recurrence Edited by Bold Media Films

    27 min
  8. Upright but Unpredictable: Living with POTS with Meredyth Appelbaum

    JAN 8

    Upright but Unpredictable: Living with POTS with Meredyth Appelbaum

    Dysautonomia affects millions of people — yet so many go years without answers, validation, or support. In this episode of The Empowered Women's Wellness Project, We are joined by Meredyth Appelbaum, a working mom living with dysautonomia and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). Together, we break down what dysautonomia actually is, why POTS is so often misunderstood as a heart condition, and how autonomic nervous system imbalance can impact daily life in profound — and often invisible — ways. Meredyth shares her journey through misdiagnosis, medical dismissal, and the emotional toll of not being believed, while offering insight into advocacy, redefining wellness, and learning to work with a sensitive nervous system instead of fighting it. This episode is for anyone living with a chronic illness, supporting someone who is, or wanting to better understand how the nervous system influences energy, resilience, and healing. We discuss: What dysautonomia and POTS really are (and what they're not) Common symptoms, misdiagnoses, and medical gaslighting Advocacy, finding your voice, and being believed Resources: Dysautonomia International Visible band - measures heart rate in realtime Dr. Nicholas DePace - South Jersey  Dr. Sanjay Gupta If this episode resonated, please share it with someone who might need it — and don't forget to follow, rate, and review The Empowered Wellness Project.   Questions and show ideas can be sent to our contacts below or ewwp.podcast@gmail.com Want to work with us,  OR JOIN THE MEMBERSHIP?! - For only $5/month you can be part of The EWP Community and receive access to exclusive content, customized workouts, recipe drops, a chance to receive one-on-one coaching LIVE and SO MUCH MORE. Click the link to be part of the fun! Give us a follow... Lauren Brown IG@settingthepacenj Website Amanda Gargiulo IG@amanda.gargiulo Website EWP Youtube Breast Cancer Thriver or caretaker looking for support? Check out Amanda's FREE guide: 5 Key Strategies to Reduce Your Risk of Breast Cancer Recurrence Edited by Bold Media Films

    35 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Hi friends! Lauren & Amanda here. We are so excited to share our podcast, Empowered + Well! The platform will serve as a space for us to join forces and cover all things wellness for women. Together we bring you over 20 years of experience in the health & fitness space and we can't wait to share it all - with great guests along the way! Our goal is to empower you to find your strength so you can be truly unstoppable.

Information

  • Creator
    Amanda & Lauren
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    80
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2024
  • Show Website
    Empowered + Well