Straight Up With Steph

Stephanie Botts
  • 5.0 (15)
  • HEALTH & FITNESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

 Your podcast for real tips on healthy posture, healthy habits, and a healthy life! 

  1. Ep 85: Your Best Years Aren’t Behind You In Midlife (Here’s Why)

    1D AGO

    Ep 85: Your Best Years Aren’t Behind You In Midlife (Here’s Why)

    In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I sit down with Maggie Topham, integrative health coach and passionate advocate for helping women thrive in midlife. Maggie shares her powerful personal journey—from feeling lost, exhausted, and “fluffy” in her 40s to rebuilding her health through blood sugar awareness, strength training, and a muscle-centric approach to living. We talk about why what worked in our 20s stops working in perimenopause, how endless cardio can backfire, and why protein + lifting are the real game changers.  Maggie also gets real about GLP-1 medications, hormone therapy (especially testosterone!), and how to get out of the cycle of dieting and punishment workouts. If you’ve ever felt like your body isn’t your own anymore, this conversation will give you hope—and a practical roadmap to feel strong, confident, and energized again. We cover: Why midlife weight gain is metabolic, not a willpower problemHow Maggie went from size 16 → 0 without extreme dietingThe truth about cardio vs. strength training after 40Protein targets and how Maggie structures her day of eatingInsulin resistance, CGMs, and blood sugar basicsTestosterone for women and the mental health connectionGLP-1 pros, cons, and what scares us mostHow to start lifting—even if the gym intimidates youIf you’re tired of being told “this is just aging,” this episode is for you. About Maggie Connect with Maggie: Instagram: func_health TikTok @maggie.top Facebook: func.Health Warrior Babe Dynamic Health Institute To watch on YouTube, click here Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes. Send me a message, I’d love to hear from you! 🌟Click here for my free intro course Click here and use code CUSHION to save 10% off all cushions🌟 🌟Cordless polisher: Click here and use code PODCAST150 for $150 off  To connect with me: 🦷Polished Posture Club ➡️Instagram 💻My Website 📨Email: stephanie@polishedposture.net 💌Newsletter signup

    1h 4m
  2. Ep 84: Sleeping but Still Exhausted? What’s Really Disrupting Your Sleep

    FEB 6

    Ep 84: Sleeping but Still Exhausted? What’s Really Disrupting Your Sleep

    In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I’m joined by Dr. Meredith Broderick, a neurologist and board-certified sleep and behavioral sleep medicine specialist, to break down what actually matters when it comes to sleep. We talk about why waking up at 2–3 a.m. is so common, how sleep architecture really works, and why chasing “perfect” sleep scores can backfire. Dr. Broderick also explains sleep apnea beyond the outdated stereotype, why women are often underdiagnosed, and what treatment options exist beyond CPAP. We also dig into: Why sleep trackers can help — and when they hurtAlcohol, THC, and sleep: what no one tells youMelatonin, sleeping pills, and what actually worksWhy airway health in kids matters more than we thinkThe surprising role GLP-1 medications play in sleep apnea If sleep feels confusing, frustrating, or broken — this episode will help! About Dr Meredith Connect with Dr Meredith: @SleepDoctorMer on Instagram and TikTok   Website: https://soundsleepguru.com/ To watch on YouTube, click here Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes.  Send me a message, I’d love to hear from you! 🌟Click here for my free intro course Click here and use code CUSHION to save 10% off all cushions🌟 🌟Cordless polisher: Click here and use code PODCAST150 for $150 off  To connect with me: 🦷Polished Posture Club ➡️Instagram 💻My Website 📨Email: stephanie@polishedposture.net 💌Newsletter signup

    56 min
  3. Ep 83: Why Screens Are Ruining Our Vision (And What To Do About It)

    JAN 30

    Ep 83: Why Screens Are Ruining Our Vision (And What To Do About It)

    In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I sit down with Dr. Bryce Appelbaum, a functional optometrist and founder of MyVisionFirst, to talk about something most of us never learned: the difference between eyesight and vision — and why it matters far more than we realize. We dive into how the eye–brain connection impacts everything from driving anxiety and dizziness to screen fatigue, learning challenges, ADHD-like symptoms, and even athletic performance. Dr. B explains why 20/20 eyesight doesn’t mean your visual system is working well, how screens are reshaping our brains and vision, and why so many symptoms get missed or misdiagnosed. I also share my personal experience with sudden vertigo while driving — and how vision therapy changed everything. You’ll learn: The difference between eyesight and vision (and why most doctors don’t explain it)Why screens, loupes, and near work stress the visual systemSigns your symptoms may be vision-related (motion sickness, fatigue, anxiety, reading issues)Simple daily vision exercises you can do at homeHow vision therapy supports driving confidence, focus, and brain healthWhy kids and adults alike should be screened for functional vision issues👉 Special offer: Dr. B is offering listeners $200 off his ScreenFit program with code STRAIGHTUP  Website: https://myvisionfirst.com/ About Dr Appelbaum Connect with Dr B: Instagram: @drbryceappelbaum Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@drbryceappelbaum Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/myvisionfirstoptometry Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-bryce-appelbaum/ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@dr.bryceappelbaum To watch on YouTube, click here Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes.  Send me a message, I’d love to hear from you! 🌟Click here for my free intro course Click here and use code CUSHION to save 10% off all cushions🌟 🌟Cordless polisher: Click here and use code PODCAST150 for $150 off  To connect with me: 🦷Polished Posture Club ➡️Instagram 💻My Website 📨Email: stephanie@polishedposture.net 💌Newsletter signup

    59 min
  4. Ep 82: Why Most Dental Practices Struggle—and How To Fix It

    JAN 9

    Ep 82: Why Most Dental Practices Struggle—and How To Fix It

    In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I’m joined by Dr. David Rice—dentist, coach, and founder of Ignite DDS—for a real, honest conversation about leadership, practice ownership, hygiene value, and the future of dentistry. Dr. Rice shares what he would do differently if he were starting over as a practice owner, why leadership is the missing link in most dental practices, and how both dentists and hygienists can create practices that are profitable and healthy to work in. We also dive into: Why leadership (not production) is the real driver of practice successThe biggest mistakes new practice owners make—and how to avoid themWhether the hygiene department is truly a “loss leader”The truth behind the hygiene shortage and rising wagesWhy production-based hygiene pay can be ethical and empoweringHow AI is changing patient trust and case acceptanceWhat the next 5–10 years of dentistry may look like This episode is a must-listen for dentists, hygienists, and practice owners who want sustainable growth, stronger teams, and less tension inside their practices. 👉 Listen to the full episode now and share it with a colleague who needs this perspective. To watch on YouTube, click here About David Connect with David: Website @ignitedds @futuredentists @drdavidrice Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes.   Send me a message, I’d love to hear from you! 🌟Click here for my free intro course Click here and use code CUSHION to save 10% off all cushions🌟 🌟Cordless polisher: Click here and use code PODCAST150 for $150 off  To connect with me: 🦷Polished Posture Club ➡️Instagram 💻My Website 📨Email: stephanie@polishedposture.net 💌Newsletter signup

    54 min
  5. Ep 81: Muscle, Metabolism & Perimenopause: What Women Need to Know

    JAN 2

    Ep 81: Muscle, Metabolism & Perimenopause: What Women Need to Know

    In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I’m joined again by registered dietitian and perimenopause expert Laura Berger for a deeper dive into muscle, metabolism, fat loss, and the biggest mistakes women are making with nutrition and training—especially in their 30s, 40s, and beyond. We unpack why muscle truly is the organ of longevity, why women are not “bulking up” from strength training, and how hormonal shifts during perimenopause change the way we need to eat and exercise. Laura also breaks down why calorie counting, macro tracking, and “eating less” often backfire—and what to focus on instead if you want sustainable fat loss and long-term health. We also tackle a hot topic that many women are curious (and conflicted) about: GLP-1 medications. Laura explains when they may be appropriate, when they’re likely doing more harm than good, and why preserving lean muscle is non-negotiable for aging well. In this episode, we cover: Why muscle is critical for longevity, metabolism, and hormone healthThe myth of women “bulking up” from lifting weightsStrength training vs yoga & Pilates—and why most women need a blendWhat functional strength training actually looks likeWhy protein alone doesn’t build muscle without the right stimulusHow meal timing and protein distribution change in perimenopauseThe biggest problems with calorie counting and macro trackingWhat GLP-1 medications do—and what most people aren’t being toldHow to start the new year strong without all-or-nothing thinking Ep 79: Why Your Old Diets Don’t Work Anymore: The Real Reason Women Gain Weight About Laura Connect with Laura: Instagram and TikTok: @theperimenopausediet Website Free Masterclass Easy Sheet Pan Recipe Easy Smoothie Recipe To watch on YouTube, click here Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes.   Send me a message, I’d love to hear from you! 🌟Click here for my free intro course Click here and use code CUSHION to save 10% off all cushions🌟 🌟Cordless polisher: Click here and use code PODCAST150 for $150 off  To connect with me: 🦷Polished Posture Club ➡️Instagram 💻My Website 📨Email: stephanie@polishedposture.net 💌Newsletter signup

    1h 2m
  6. Ep 80: Early Signs of Hearing Loss You’re Ignoring — And How They Affect Your Brain

    12/19/2025

    Ep 80: Early Signs of Hearing Loss You’re Ignoring — And How They Affect Your Brain

    In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, hearing instrument specialist Madison joins me to unpack the surprisingly deep connection between hearing, cognition, memory, balance, and longevity. We talk about why hearing loss sneaks up on people, the common early signs that get ignored, and how untreated hearing loss dramatically increases the risk of dementia, falls, and social withdrawal. Madison also explains why dental clinicians are especially vulnerable to high-frequency noise exposure and the right way to use hearing protection. You’ll learn:  ✔️ How the auditory system feeds the brain  ✔️ Why background noise is exhausting  ✔️ When noise becomes dangerous (real decibel numbers!)  ✔️ Why hearing aids are not “just for old people” ✔️ The difference between hearing loss and auditory processing disorder ✔️ The research linking hearing loss and dementia ✔️ How to protect your hearing — at work, at the gym, and at concerts If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed in loud places, relied on captions, or struggled in restaurants, this episode will make so much sense About Madison Connect with Madison: @madisonlistens on Instagram  Ted Talk: https://youtu.be/dFRvJcm6KKQ?si=_cZXHGjITFnaQaZI   Website To watch on YouTube, click here Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes.  Send me a message, I’d love to hear from you! 🌟Click here for my free intro course Click here and use code CUSHION to save 10% off all cushions🌟 🌟Cordless polisher: Click here and use code PODCAST150 for $150 off  To connect with me: 🦷Polished Posture Club ➡️Instagram 💻My Website 📨Email: stephanie@polishedposture.net 💌Newsletter signup

    48 min
  7. Ep 79: Why Your Old Diets Don’t Work Anymore: The Real Reason Women Gain Weight

    12/12/2025

    Ep 79: Why Your Old Diets Don’t Work Anymore: The Real Reason Women Gain Weight

    In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I’m joined by registered dietitian and creator of The Perimenopause Diet, Laura Berger, for a deeply validating and eye-opening conversation about body changes in your 30s and 40s, perimenopause, weight fluctuations, insulin resistance, and why traditional “eat less, move more” advice stops working during this chapter of life. Laura breaks down: Why fat gain and “fluffiness” can happen even when diet and exercise haven’t changedHow declining estrogen, stress, sleep, and insulin resistance interactWhat most women misunderstand about intermittent fastingWhy strength training is non-negotiable and how to do it correctlyThe real reason women feel out of control around food (hint: it’s not willpower)How to structure meals to stabilize blood sugar, reduce cravings, and improve sleepHoliday eating strategies that don’t derail progress or trigger guiltThis episode is full of reassurance, clarity, and truly empowering education for women navigating midlife shifts. If you’ve been feeling frustrated, confused, or stuck in your body…this one will feel like a breath of relief. 👉 Listen now and connect with Laura’s programs + masterclass in the show notes! About Laura Connect with Laura: Instagram and TikTok: @theperimenopausediet Website Free Masterclass To watch on YouTube, click here Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes.   Send me a message, I’d love to hear from you! 🌟Click here for my free intro course Click here and use code CUSHION to save 10% off all cushions🌟 🌟Cordless polisher: Click here and use code PODCAST150 for $150 off  To connect with me: 🦷Polished Posture Club ➡️Instagram 💻My Website 📨Email: stephanie@polishedposture.net 💌Newsletter signup

    1h 5m
  8. Ep 78: Hair Myths Debunked: What Actually Works for Healthy Hair Growth

    12/05/2025

    Ep 78: Hair Myths Debunked: What Actually Works for Healthy Hair Growth

    In this episode of Straight Up With Steph, I sit down with clinical trichologist Dorian White to talk about all things hair and scalp health. We cover everything from tight hairstyles and traction alopecia to the science behind scalp care, proper shampoo techniques, and what really causes hair loss. You’ll learn: The real difference between scalp serums and oilsHow to properly wash your hair for optimal scalp healthWhy you might be losing hair at your temples or crownThe truth about supplements like biotin and collagenScience-backed ingredients that actually help with regrowthDorian’s top tips for maintaining healthy hair as hormones shift This conversation is full of myth-busting advice, practical tips, and reassurance for anyone struggling with hair changes or loss. About Dori Connect with Dori: @dorian_marie_hair on instagram and titktok To watch on YouTube, click here Disclaimer: The opinions expressed by guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of Polished Posture. The information shared in this podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making significant lifestyle changes. Send me a message, I’d love to hear from you! 🌟Click here for my free intro course Click here and use code CUSHION to save 10% off all cushions🌟 🌟Cordless polisher: Click here and use code PODCAST150 for $150 off  To connect with me: 🦷Polished Posture Club ➡️Instagram 💻My Website 📨Email: stephanie@polishedposture.net 💌Newsletter signup

    1h 1m
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5
out of 5
15 Ratings

About

 Your podcast for real tips on healthy posture, healthy habits, and a healthy life! 

Information

  • Creator
    Stephanie Botts
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    86
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Straight Up With Steph
  • Show Website
    Straight Up With Steph

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