Happy & Healthy with Amy

Amy Lang

Do you want to protect your brain from Alzheimer's disease so you can be sharp and stay sharp for life? This podcast is for you.Your host, Amy Lang, master certified health coach and founder of Moxie Club will be sharing with you the lessons learned and insights gained from 20+ years as a health club owner and Alzheimer's prevention coach.For more information, visit www.moxie-club.com

  1. HACE 3 DÍAS

    How to Navigate Alzheimer’s Grief Before and After Loss

    Watching a parent fade away due to Alzheimer’s is heartbreaking, confusing, and deeply exhausting. In this episode, grief and trauma specialist Jill McMahon joins me to talk about the emotional and neurological cost of caregiving and how to cope with the loss of a loved one — even while they’re still alive. You’ll learn powerful strategies to process your emotions, reduce stress, protect your brain health, and reclaim a bit of peace. 🔍 What to Listen For: [04:50] The difference between traditional grief and anticipatory grief — and why both are valid.[07:40] Why it's normal to feel anger, shame, and exhaustion while caregiving — and how to work through it.[10:30] The “emotional trash can” metaphor every caregiver needs to hear.[17:55] Understanding allostatic load and why caregiving accelerates cognitive decline risk.[20:54] Why nature is better than antidepressants and how to support your nervous system.[26:30] Jill breaks down the hormonal cascade: chronic stress → high cortisol → brain fog, poor sleep, and increased Alzheimer’s risk.[29:00] Concrete tips to lower your emotional and neurological stress load — including ways to support your nervous system starting today.[34:30] How do you know when you’re burning out? Listen for these subtle (and not-so-subtle) red flags that most caregivers ignore — until it’s too late[41:00] What’s the first thing to do when you're emotionally maxed out? Jill offers practical steps to stop the spiral of shame, self-judgment, and exhaustion.[43:50] Why simply naming what you're feeling helps calm the nervous system — and how journaling or talking to a trusted friend can be deeply therapeutic.[48:30] Jill shares her favorite ways to regulate the nervous system daily — from breathwork and walking to setting firm emotional boundaries.[56:30] Final call to action: why you need a grief support system — and how to find your emotional “dumping grounds” before the metaphorical trash can spills over.This heartfelt conversation with Jill McMahon is one every caregiver needs to hear. Whether your loved one is currently living with Alzheimer’s or has passed on, your grief is valid — and there are ways to cope that support your mental, emotional, and brain health. 🎧 Tune in now — and don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and follow Jill on Instagram. RESOURCES: Register for the FREE Masterclass: 5 Keys to Protecting Your Brain Health Book a FREE Discovery Call with Amy Lang Order Amy's book Thoughts Are Habits Too: Master Your Triggers, Free Yourself From Diet Culture, and Rediscover Joyful Eating. Follow Amy on Instagram @habitwhisperer

    1 h y 2 min
  2. 29 OCT

    The Truth About Protein, Processed Foods, and Menopause with Dietitian Luca Pasquariello

    Are you overwhelmed by conflicting nutrition advice? In this episode, I sit down with dietitian Luca Pasquariello to unpack what a truly healthy eating pattern looks like—especially for women 40+ focused on brain health and Alzheimer’s prevention.  No gimmicks. Just science-backed insights that work. What to Listen For (08:20) How a dietitian thinks about food, health, and what gets him out of bed in the morning(10:50) What a healthy eating pattern really looks like—and why your grandma was probably right(12:42) Why “bad foods” might not exist, and how to think about moderation instead(14:39) The difference between fermented dairy, low-fat options, and how to modify if you’re vegan(17:37) The truth about red meat, fatty fish, and ethical versus scientific arguments(19:58) What “processed food” actually means and why even tofu and oats are technically processed(22:56) Why ultra-processed food categories need a new classification system(23:49) How to avoid falling for the “silver bullet” diet myth(24:04) How to read and interpret nutrition studies—and why it’s not as easy as it seems(26:30) What Luca looks for when evaluating nutrition research (sample size, methodology, bias)(28:30) The role of food fortification—especially for vegans and vegetarians—and why it's non-negotiable for nutrients like B12.(35:10) What women in perimenopause and menopause need to know about cholesterol, insulin resistance, and cognitive decline.(40:20) The truth about supplementation: When is it helpful, when is it hype, and which ones are worth it?(44:00) How to stop falling into the trap of “magical thinking” with food—and what long-term nutrition success really looks like.(47:18) Luca’s thoughts on personalized nutrition vs. general guidelines—what really matters for outcomes.(50:02) Amy and Luca discuss how to shift your mindset from body shame and diet culture to long-term, brain-forward wellness.This episode cuts through the noise and gets to the heart of what truly matters when it comes to brain-supportive nutrition. With Luca’s science-backed approach, you’ll leave with a clearer understanding of how to build a sustainable, nourishing eating pattern. Sources: Hevia-Larraín V, Gualano B, Longobardi I, Gil S, Fernandes AL, Costa LAR, Pereira RMR, Artioli GG, Phillips SM, Roschel H. High-Protein Plant-Based Diet Versus a Protein-Matched Omnivorous Diet to Support Resistance Training Adaptations: A Comparison Between Habitual Vegans and Omnivores. Sports Med. 2021 Jun;51(6):1317-1330. doi: 10.1007/s40279-021-01434-9. Epub 2021 Feb 18. PMID: 33599941. Roberts AK, Busque V, Robinson JL, Landry MJ, Gardner CD. SWAP-MEAT Athlete (study with appetizing plant-food, meat eating alternatives trial) - investigating the impact of three different diets on recreational athletic performance: a randomized crossover trial. Nutr J. 2022 Nov 16;21(1):69. doi: 10.1186/s12937-022-00820-x. PMID: 36384651; PMCID: PMC9666956. Monteyne AJ, Coelho MOC, Murton AJ, Abdelrahman DR, Blackwell JR, Koscien CP, Knapp KM, Fulford J, Finnigan TJA, Dirks ML, Stephens FB, Wall BT. Vegan and Omnivorous High Protein Diets Support Compara RESOURCES: Register for the FREE Masterclass: 5 Keys to Protecting Your Brain Health Book a FREE Discovery Call with Amy Lang Order Amy's book Thoughts Are Habits Too: Master Your Triggers, Free Yourself From Diet Culture, and Rediscover Joyful Eating. Follow Amy on Instagram @habitwhisperer

    1 h y 2 min
  3. 22 OCT

    How to Prevent Cognitive Decline: What the U.S. POINTER Study Reveals

    Does aging mean inevitable cognitive decline?  In this episode, Amy unpacks two of the largest lifestyle intervention studies on brain health and breaks down what really works when it comes to preventing dementia, interventions that can even improve cognition, even in high risk individual — and she’ll share how to apply them to your life today. 🔍 What to Listen For [00:01:00] The surprising reason information alone won’t improve your brain health[00:02:30] How to tell the difference between good science and media hype[00:05:00] The 7 elements that make a study scientifically credible[00:06:30] Why double-blind studies aren’t always possible — and why that’s okay[00:11:00] What makes the Finnish FINGER Study so revolutionary[00:14:00] The structured support that led to a 30% improvement in cognition[00:17:30] How the POINTER Study is adapting those findings for the U.S.[00:21:00] Why cognitive training like Brain HQ is a game changer[00:23:00] The “secret ingredient” that helps people follow through on healthy habits[00:24:00] The truth behind behavior change — and what consistently beats willpowerThe FINGER and POINTER studies have changed how we understand brain health — and the big takeaway? Lifestyle matters, but it’s not enough to know what to do. You need structure, accountability, and support to follow through. Want to keep your brain sharp? Don’t go it alone. Start by tuning in to this episode and learn how to bring the science into your everyday life. RESOURCES: Register for the FREE Masterclass: 5 Keys to Protecting Your Brain Health Book a FREE Discovery Call with Amy Lang Order Amy's book Thoughts Are Habits Too: Master Your Triggers, Free Yourself From Diet Culture, and Rediscover Joyful Eating. Follow Amy on Instagram @habitwhisperer

    36 min
  4. 15 OCT

    Why ADHD in Women Often Goes Undiagnosed with Tracy Otsuka

    If you’ve ever thought, “What’s wrong with me?” while juggling a million thoughts, forgetting simple tasks, or burning out from doing all the things — you are not alone. In today’s episode, with ADHD expert, podcast host, and author Tracy Otsuka, we explore how ADHD shows up so differently in women, how hormones like estrogen affect focus and dopamine — and why understanding your neurodivergent brain could be the breakthrough you didn’t know you needed. 🎧 What to Listen For [7:00] How ADHD shows up differently in girls and women[8:30] Why so many women are misdiagnosed with anxiety or depression[10:45] The powerful connection between estrogen, dopamine, and brain function[13:00] When “menopause brain” might actually be undiagnosed ADHD[16:30] Amy’s story: When brain fog sent her searching for a diagnosis[18:45] Brains of interest vs. discipline: what that really means[20:15] ADHD isn’t a productivity issue — it’s about identity[22:00] The emotional toll of feeling “lazy, crazy, or stupid” when undiagnosed[25:15] Why midlife women are finally getting the ADHD answers they’ve needed[27:45] How to thrive with ADHD by focusing on your strengths, not fixing yourselfADHD in women often hides behind people-pleasing, perfectionism, and burnout — especially during perimenopause. This episode will give you the clarity, language, and validation you’ve been craving. 🔗 Important Links Tracy Otsuka’s Website: https://tracyotsuka.comADHD for Smart Ass Women Podcast: https://tracyotsuka.com/podcastAmy’s Podcast: https://www.happyandhealthypodcast.com/Get on the Priority List for Second 🌷 Spring Society: https://www.moxie-club.com/society 🎧 Be sure to listen to the full episode, subscribe to the show, and share this with a friend who might be secretly struggling too. RESOURCES: Register for the FREE Masterclass: 5 Keys to Protecting Your Brain Health Book a FREE Discovery Call with Amy Lang Order Amy's book Thoughts Are Habits Too: Master Your Triggers, Free Yourself From Diet Culture, and Rediscover Joyful Eating. Follow Amy on Instagram @habitwhisperer

    1 h y 13 min
  5. 8 OCT

    From Burnout to Balance: The Power of Feminine Energy with Dr. Zerri Gross

    If burnout has become your baseline, this conversation is your invitation to something better. Dr. Zerri Gross shares her journey from military discipline to feminine flow.  In this powerful episode, I sit down with Dr. Zerri Gross, Army veteran, therapist, and trauma-informed yoga instructor, to explore how reconnecting with your feminine energy can lead to more freedom, fulfillment, and better brain health during perimenopause and beyond. 🎧 What to Listen For [00:04:15] The surprising reason Dr. Z joined the Army — and how it shaped her view on structure and flow[00:06:20] Why doing more jobs at once felt like the only way to succeed — and what finally made her stop[00:08:00] The early warning signs of burnout we often ignore (especially if you're a high performer)[00:09:00] What feminine energy really is — and why it's essential for cognitive and emotional health[00:10:15] Masculine energy demystified: it's not about gender, it's about how we do[00:12:30] The high cost of corporate conditioning [00:15:00] Why asking for help feels weak — and how to rewire that belief for better brain health[00:18:40] How living in your masculine creates resentment — and what to do instead[00:19:50] Actionable steps to balance your feminine and masculine energy for a healthier second springIf you’ve been stuck in go-go-go mode, this episode is your reminder that rest, softness, and joy aren’t luxuries — they’re necessities. Dr. Zerri Gross offers a fresh, empowering perspective on what it really means to embrace your feminine energy and live with more freedom, flow, and fun. 🎧 Listen now — and don’t forget to share, like, and subscribe to the podcast! Dr. Z's Feminine CEO Lab helps women redefine life on their terms. Incorporating femininity, care of self and others with that allows them to enhance their finances. RESOURCES: Register for the FREE Masterclass: 5 Keys to Protecting Your Brain Health Book a FREE Discovery Call with Amy Lang Order Amy's book Thoughts Are Habits Too: Master Your Triggers, Free Yourself From Diet Culture, and Rediscover Joyful Eating. Follow Amy on Instagram @habitwhisperer

    53 min
  6. 1 OCT

    Zinnia: A Powerful New Tool for Dementia Caregivers with CEO Bill Uniowski

    If you’ve ever watched someone you love slip further into dementia, you know how heartbreaking—and exhausting—caregiving can be. In this episode, I’m joined by Bill Uniowski, co-founder and CEO of Zinnia, a revolutionary streaming platform designed specifically for people with mid- to late-stage memory loss. Tune in to learn why typical TV overstimulates dementia patients, how Zinnia supports caregivers, and how Zinnia’s thoughtfully crafted videos are helping caregivers reconnect through meaningful, joyful moments. 🔍 What to Listen For [00:01:40] What makes traditional TV content overwhelming for people with dementia[00:04:50] How Zinnia’s video platform is tailored to slow processing speeds and memory loss[00:06:15] Why Zinnia avoids fast cuts and dialogue-heavy content—and what it offers instead[00:07:30] Real-life stories of how Zinnia helps reduce agitation and reliance on medications[00:09:00] The incredible story behind Zinnia’s founding, inspired by a wife caregiving for her husband[00:12:10] How caregivers are using Zinnia to support routines like eating, dressing, and drinking water[00:16:30] Why connection—not just distraction—is critical to improving dementia care[00:18:15] The science behind why dementia caregivers are at higher risk for cognitive decline themselves[00:20:00] Tips for using Zinnia to reduce resistance during daily tasks like bathing or dressing[00:22:50] How to use Zinnia videos as conversation starters to spark beautiful memoriesDementia caregiving is deeply personal—and deeply challenging. But tools like Zinnia can make it a little easier and a lot more meaningful. Whether you're seeking ways to reduce agitation, ease daily routines, or simply connect with your loved one again, this episode offers real hope and practical solutions. 🎧 Listen now, subscribe to Happy and Healthy with Amy Lang, and don’t forget to check out the Zinnia platform for yourself. Remember to use promo code MOXIE10 at zinniatv.com for 10% off your annual subscription. RESOURCES: Register for the FREE Masterclass: 5 Keys to Protecting Your Brain Health Book a FREE Discovery Call with Amy Lang Order Amy's book Thoughts Are Habits Too: Master Your Triggers, Free Yourself From Diet Culture, and Rediscover Joyful Eating. Follow Amy on Instagram @habitwhisperer

    54 min
  7. 24 SEP

    When Connection Hurts: Communication Breakdowns

    Ever feel like you keep having the same argument over and over again? Poor communication isn’t just annoying—it can trigger chronic stress, mess with your nervous system, and even increase your risk of cognitive decline. In this episode of Happy and Healthy with Amy, we talk about the communication traps many women fall into during midlife—and how to build brain-healthy, connection-rich conversations again. What to Listen For: [00:04:22] The series recap on how connection impacts cognitive decline[00:06:34] The difference between communication vs. connection[00:07:34] The 5 key ingredients of brain-healthy relationships[00:09:24] What happens in your brain when communication breaks down[00:11:01] The subtle but damaging signs of emotional misattunement [00:12:20] What codependent communication sounds like[00:16:15] How to tell the difference between caring and controlling[00:19:56] How fear-based communication damages your brain’s memory, empathy, and executive function[00:21:57] 3 brain-healthy communication tools you can use today to protect your relationships and your mindIn this episode, you’ll learn how to spot the patterns of codependency and control in your conversations, why they’re linked to chronic stress and brain aging, and the exact steps you can take to shift toward connection-driven communication. Listen now, and take the first step to improving the quality of your relationships so social connection is brain protective — not stressful. RESOURCES: Register for the FREE Masterclass: 5 Keys to Protecting Your Brain Health Book a FREE Discovery Call with Amy Lang Order Amy's book Thoughts Are Habits Too: Master Your Triggers, Free Yourself From Diet Culture, and Rediscover Joyful Eating. Follow Amy on Instagram @habitwhisperer

    34 min
  8. 17 SEP

    When Your Inner Critic Runs The Show

    What if the reason you keep attracting relationships that drain you isn’t bad luck—but your brain? This week on Happy and Healthy with Amy Lang, we’re exploring how your inner critic shapes your self-worth, hijacks your brain’s wiring, and keeps you stuck in a cycle of “not enough.” I'm also sharing 3 practical, research-backed tools to help you turn that inner bully into a voice of compassion. Tune in for powerful mindset shifts and brain-based tools that will change the way you relate—to yourself and others. What to Listen For (with timestamps): [00:02:00] Why your inner critic isn’t just hurting your feelings—it’s literally reshaping your brain.[00:03:00] The difference between self-worth and self-esteem (and why it matters).[00:05:00] How a hyperactive amygdala keeps you stuck in patterns of poor self-worth.[00:07:00] Client story: Why a single negative comment overshadowed nine compliments.[00:09:00] The “Tolerance Trap”: Why you start accepting less and feeling grateful for scraps.[00:11:00] How your brain mistakes familiar for safe—even when it’s painful.[00:12:00] The “Overcompensation Cycle”: Are you trying to earn love through performance?[00:14:00] Why self-compassion activates your brain’s care system—and rewires your emotional resilience.[00:17:00] 3-Step Self-Compassion Break: Use this in the moment to stop a shame spiral.[00:19:00] 4 Rewiring Tools to reprogram your brain and heal your self-worth from the inside out.Your inner critic might be loud, but it doesn’t have to be in charge. With consistent practice and the right tools, you can rewire your brain for self-compassion, emotional resilience, and healthier relationships. Start with one of the rewiring tools from today’s episode and give your brain a new narrative—one rooted in worth, not shame. 👉 Tune in now and hit subscribe so you never miss an episode that helps you stay happy and healthy through midlife and beyond! RESOURCES: Register for the FREE Masterclass: 5 Keys to Protecting Your Brain Health Book a FREE Discovery Call with Amy Lang Order Amy's book Thoughts Are Habits Too: Master Your Triggers, Free Yourself From Diet Culture, and Rediscover Joyful Eating. Follow Amy on Instagram @habitwhisperer

    28 min
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Do you want to protect your brain from Alzheimer's disease so you can be sharp and stay sharp for life? This podcast is for you.Your host, Amy Lang, master certified health coach and founder of Moxie Club will be sharing with you the lessons learned and insights gained from 20+ years as a health club owner and Alzheimer's prevention coach.For more information, visit www.moxie-club.com

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