Her Health Code

Jess & Michele

Welcome to Her Health Code, the podcast that helps women in midlife feel better in their bodies without the confusion or overwhelm. We’re two health coaches sharing real talk, personal stories, and our best coaching tips that help you reconnect with your body’s wisdom. Think of us as your health-savvy girlfriends, here to help you crack the code to feeling vibrant and strong again.

Episodes

  1. Menu Of the Month (MOM) | February

    5D AGO

    Menu Of the Month (MOM) | February

    Welcome to our first Meal of the Month (MOM) where we're sharing easy, realistic meal ideas for moms in midlife, with each of us bringing one simple go-to meal inspired by seasonal foods, flavors, and the kind of energy we want to feel in this stage of life. LINKS:Connect with Jess & Michele: Michele: lovingyourwellness.comInstagram Jess: livelightly.ecoFree Wellness & Home Detox GuideInstagram YouTube Key Takeaways:   •   Seasonal eating helps your body feel more in rhythm and supported   •   Simple meals can still be deeply nourishing   •   Midlife energy is supported by balanced meals—not skipping or extremes   •   Listening to your body is more powerful than following food trends 🥦 Simple Bok Choy & Tofu Stir-Fry Serves 2–3 | Ready in ~25 minutes Ingredients   •   1 block extra-firm tofu, pressed and cubed   •   1–2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil   •   1 small onion, thinly sliced   •   2–3 carrots, julienned or thinly sliced   •   2 cups bok choy, chopped (separate stems and leaves)   •   1 can water chestnuts, drained and sliced   •   2 cloves fresh garlic, finely grated   •   1 tbsp fresh ginger, finely grated Sauce   •   3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)   •   2 tbsp hoisin sauce   •   1 tbsp maple syrup   •   2–3 tbsp water (to loosen sauce) ⸻Instructions    1.    Prepare the tofuHeat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add tofu cubes in a single layer and cook until golden on most sides (about 6–8 minutes). Remove from pan and set aside.    2.    Sauté the vegetablesAdd remaining oil to the pan. Sauté onion and carrots for 3–4 minutes until softened. Add bok choy stems and water chestnuts and cook another 2 minutes.    3.    Add aromaticsStir in grated garlic and ginger. Cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant (don’t let them burn).    4.    Make it saucyIn a small bowl, whisk soy sauce, hoisin, maple syrup, and water. Pour into the pan and stir to coat vegetables.    5.    Finish the stir-fryAdd bok choy leaves and cooked tofu back into the pan. Toss gently and cook 2–3 minutes until greens are wilted and everything is warmed through.    6.    Taste & adjustAdd a splash of water for more sauce, or a touch more maple syrup if you want it slightly sweeter. ⸻Serving Suggestions   •   Serve over brown rice, jasmine rice, or quinoa   •   For lower-carb: spoon over cauliflower rice   •   Add sesame seeds or sliced green onions if desired Hearty Bone Broth Minestrone Soup Serves: 10 Cook time: ~45 minutes Ingredients 1 medium onion, diced2–3 cloves garlic, minced2 carrots, sliced4 celery stalks, sliced1 (14–15 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)8 cups bone broth (any mix of beef & chicken)1 TBS Italian seasoning1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)¼ tsp black pepper1 can white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained & rinsed1 can kidney beans, drained & rinsedOption A: 1/2 package cooked small pasta (ditalini, elbows, shells)Option B: 1/2 package high-protein pasta such as BRAMI2–3 cups fresh spinach, roughly choppedBefore we say goodbye, just a quick disclaimer. The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. We are not medical doctors, and this content is not a substitute for professional medical care. We encourage you to consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, lifestyle, or wellness routine—especially if you have a medical condition or are taking medications. By listening, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own health choices, and we’re honored to be part of your wellness journey. Thank you again for joining us!

    9 min
  2. Midlife Relationships & Menopause: Why Everything Feels Harder (and What Helps)

    JAN 26

    Midlife Relationships & Menopause: Why Everything Feels Harder (and What Helps)

    In this episode of Her Health Code, we dive into the relationship challenges many women face during perimenopause and menopause—from increased irritability and emotional distance to shifts in intimacy, communication, and self-identity. Midlife hormonal changes don’t just affect the body—they can deeply impact romantic partnerships, friendships, family dynamics, and how women relate to themselves. This conversation sheds light on why conflicts may feel heightened during this season and offers compassion, clarity, and practical tools for navigating relationships with more understanding and ease. ✨ If you’ve ever thought, “Why do I feel like a different person?” or “Why is my relationship suddenly so hard?”—this episode is for you. LINKS:Connect with Jess & Michele: Michele: lovingyourwellness.comInstagram Jess: livelightly.ecoFree Wellness & Home Detox GuideInstagram YouTube⸻What You’ll Learn in This Episode   •   How perimenopause and menopause affect emotions, mood, and communication   •   Why relationship tension often increases in midlife   •   Common patterns women experience with partners & family   •   Ways to communicate your needs without guilt or overwhelm  Before we say goodbye, just a quick disclaimer. The information shared on this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. We are not medical doctors, and this content is not a substitute for professional medical care. We encourage you to consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, lifestyle, or wellness routine—especially if you have a medical condition or are taking medications. By listening, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own health choices, and we’re honored to be part of your wellness journey. Thank you again for joining us!  Timestamps (Optional but great for YouTube)00:00 – Introduction03:10 – Why relationships feel harder in midlife07:45 – The hormonal impact on emotions and mood13:20 – Communication breakdowns & feeling unseen18:40 – Intimacy, libido, and body changes24:30 – What helps: boundaries, support, and honesty30:10 – Final reflections & encouragement

    22 min
  3. From Sweatpants to Style: Reclaiming Your Wardrobe in Midlife

    JAN 19

    From Sweatpants to Style: Reclaiming Your Wardrobe in Midlife

    Feeling uncomfortable or unsure in your clothes during the midlife perimenopause and menopause years is more common than we talk about—and it has nothing to do with your worth. In this episode, we explore how to feel more confident in your clothes as a woman in midlife, especially as your body changes during perimenopause and menopause. We talk about why what once worked in your closet may no longer feel right and how confidence is less about size and more about understanding your body, honoring this season of life, and dressing with intention. You’ll learn practical, compassionate strategies to help you feel comfortable and confident in your clothes, including how hormones affect body shape, why self-criticism shows up more loudly in midlife, and how small wardrobe shifts can make a big impact on self-esteem. This episode is an empowering reminder that you don’t need to keep up with the latest style trends; you deserve clothes that feel good on you now. Feeling confident in your clothes can be a powerful act of self-care and an important part of midlife wellness. ✨ Perfect for women in midlife who want to feel confident, comfortable, and at home in their bodies again.LINKS:Connect with Jess & Michele: Michele: lovingyourwellness.comInstagram Jess: livelightly.ecoFree Wellness & Home Detox GuideInstagram YouTube takeaways "It's easy to feel disconnected from our wardrobes as we age.""Having 10 pieces that make you feel amazing in midlife is better than 100 that don't.""Tips for using ChatGPT to find your best colors for free!""Dressing in clothing that looks and feels good can significantly boost your confidence.""It's not about vanity; it's about how you want to show up in the world.Chapters00:00Introduction and Welcome00:00Exploring Key Themes and Insights00:03Navigating Wardrobe Changes in Midlife09:50Finding Fabrics That Feel Good18:54Building a Sustainable and Confident Wardrobe

    18 min
  4. How to Stop Sugar Cravings in Midlife: Women's Hormones, Bitters & How to Reset Your Tastebuds Naturally

    JAN 16

    How to Stop Sugar Cravings in Midlife: Women's Hormones, Bitters & How to Reset Your Tastebuds Naturally

    Do you find yourself craving sweets more than ever in midlife? You’re not imagining it—and you’re not alone. In this episode, we explore sweet cravings in women during midlife and how they’re deeply connected to hormonal changes, perimenopause, menopause, blood sugar balance, stress, and emotional well-being. We break down why sugar cravings often intensify during this stage of life and what your body may really be asking for. This episode offers compassionate insight, practical tools, and reassurance for women navigating perimenopause and menopause, helping you better understand your body and support your health from the inside out. ✨ Perfect for women in midlife who want to reduce sugar cravings, support hormone health, and feel empowered in their wellness journey. LINKS:Connect with Jess & Michele: Michele: lovingyourwellness.comInstagram Jess: livelightly.ecoFree Wellness & Home Detox GuideInstagram YouTube LINKS MENTIONED IN SHOW:GAIA PRO DIGESTIVE BITTERS Bitters can help reduce sugar cravings.Taste buds can change to prefer bitter foods.Eating arugula before meals can curb sweet cravings.Sauerkraut may help manage sugar cravings.Emotional eating is often linked to sugar consumption.Sugar can lead to mood swings and depression.It takes a few days to shift taste preferences.Conscious dietary changes can improve health.Managing sugar intake is important for hormone balance.Personal experiences can guide dietary choices.Chapters 00:00Introduction to Sugar Cravings 02:40Bitters and Taste Bud Transformation 05:34Personal Hacks for Managing Sweet Tooth 08:20The Emotional Impact of Sugar Consumption 10:06Conclusion and Future Experimentation

    8 min
  5. Real Talk on Perimenopause & Menopause: Navigating Symptoms, Diet, and HRT

    JAN 15

    Real Talk on Perimenopause & Menopause: Navigating Symptoms, Diet, and HRT

    In this episode, Jess & Michele share their honest and deeply personal journeys through perimenopause and menopause, opening up about early symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, emotional overwhelm, and feeling alone during this major life transition. Together, we explore the powerful role of dietary changes, the realities of navigating hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and why advocating for yourself within the healthcare system is essential. Jessica and Michele discuss how understanding your body, finding the right provider, and embracing ongoing support can make all the difference in managing symptoms and reclaiming confidence in midlife. This conversation is a warm reminder that you are not alone, that menopause is not a one-size-fits-all experience, and that with the right tools, support, and self-compassion, it’s possible to feel strong, informed, and empowered during this season of life. This episode is for women in midlife who want to feel supported, educated, and hopeful about their health and wellness journey. LINKS:Connect with Jess & Michele:Michele: lovingyourwellness.comInstagram Jess: livelightly.ecoFree Wellness & Home Detox GuideInstagram YouTube We talk openly about: Early menopause symptoms and feeling “too young”How nutrition and dietary changes impact hormonesSeparating nutrition myths from scienceThe emotional and mental health side of midlife transitionsFinding supportive healthcare providersWhy HRT requires ongoing monitoring and personal advocacy Chapters 00:00Introduction to Perimenopause and Menopause 02:57Personal Experiences with Symptoms 05:27Dietary Changes and Their Impact 08:34Navigating Nutrition Myths 11:33Understanding Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) 14:11 Emotional and Mental Health During Transition 17:22 Finding Support and Community 20:03 The Journey to HRT and Its Benefits 25:08 The Importance of Self-Presentation 30:57 Navigating Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) 38:12 The Role of Healthcare Providers in Hormonal Health 43:54 Personal Experiences with Hormonal Changes and HRT

    50 min
  6. Stop Reading Every Food Label: A Simpler Way to Eat Healthy For You & Your Family

    10/23/2025

    Stop Reading Every Food Label: A Simpler Way to Eat Healthy For You & Your Family

    You’ve been told to read every food label, but what if that’s not actually helping?  In this episode of Her Health Code, hosts Jess & Michele get real about the confusion and pressure moms face when trying to eat healthy. Between misleading food labels, endless ingredient lists, and the daily rush to feed your family well, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and defeated before you even get to the checkout line. As certified holistic health coaches (and busy moms themselves), Jess and Michele share a refreshing perspective: you don’t need to memorize every ingredient to make good choices. They reveal a simpler, stress-free way to eat clean without obsessing over labels or spending hours in the kitchen. You’ll walk away inspired with practical ideas for easy breakfasts, healthy snacks, and real-life meals your whole family will love—along with mindset shifts that help you enjoy food again. This conversation will change how you look at nutrition, helping you create a healthier, happier kitchen (and life) with ease. Tune in to learn how small, sustainable changes can transform your family’s health. You don’t have to memorize every food label to eat well. Healthy meals and snacks can be simple, fun, and family-friendly. Whole, unprocessed foods fuel energy, balance, and well-being. The 80/20 rule keeps nutrition flexible and guilt-free. Creativity in the kitchen makes healthy eating sustainable. Stress-free cooking creates space for true wellness. LINKS: Connect with Jess & Michele: Michele: lovingyourwellness.comInstagram Jess: livelightly.ecoFree Wellness & Home Detox GuideInstagram YouTube Chocolate Bark recipe: Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper Melt 3-4 bars of dark chocolate (I like the organic dark chocolate @ Trader Joe’s in the red package) in the microwave, and pour onto parchment paper Sprinkle your favorite chopped nuts,seeds, and dried fruit on top of the chocolate. Using a spatula, press the nuts, seeds, and dried fruit down a bit Sprinkle with sea salt Place baking sheet into the freezer to set for at least an hour Take out of freezer, break into chunks, and store into a glass container in the fridge It is good for at least two weeks in the fridge, but it is usually eaten in one Granola "cereal"3 cups sprouted oats3/4 cup chopped walnuts3/4 cup sprouted pumpkin seeds3/4 cup hemp seedsany other seeds and nuts(optional)3 TBS ceylon cinnamon sea salt sauceequal parts melted coconut oil and maple syrup( i use 1/2 cup each) vanillamix these together until they bind together in a slurrypour sauce over dry mix and mix together until everything is coateddump onto parchment lined baking sheet, spread out evemly, and press down firmly bake at 400 degrees for about 10-14 minutescheck at 10 min take out when it’s lightly goldendon’t touch until fully cooled (about 45 min.), so u get lots of chunks enjoy😊 Episode Highlights:You don’t have to memorize every food label to eat well. Healthy meals and snacks can be simple, fun, and family-friendly. Whole, unprocessed foods fuel energy, balance, and well-being. The 80/20 rule keeps nutrition flexible and guilt-free. Creativity in the kitchen makes healthy eating sustainable. Stress-free cooking creates space for true wellness. KEY MOMENTS:00:00 – Welcome to Her Health Code 00:42 – Why healthy eating feels so overwhelming 02:30 – The problem with obsessing over food labels 05:10 – What really matters when choosing foods 08:45 – Simple swaps that make healthy eating easier 12:20 – How to get your family on board 15:00 – The 80/20 mindset for balanced nutrition 17:45 – Why perfection isn’t the goal 19:10 – Simple breakfast ideas for busy mornings 22:00 – Creating a stress-free relationship with food 24:00 – Final thoughts + encouragement for moms

    35 min

About

Welcome to Her Health Code, the podcast that helps women in midlife feel better in their bodies without the confusion or overwhelm. We’re two health coaches sharing real talk, personal stories, and our best coaching tips that help you reconnect with your body’s wisdom. Think of us as your health-savvy girlfriends, here to help you crack the code to feeling vibrant and strong again.