Hormones influence far more than hot flashes and mood swings. They affect sleep, energy, muscle mass, brain health, cardiovascular health, libido, and overall quality of life. Yet many women are still receiving outdated information about hormone replacement therapy and are left wondering whether treatment is safe—or even worth considering. In this episode of the SPELL Life Podcast, Jill and Gaynell welcome back functional and precision medicine physician Dr. Eduardo Maristany for an eye-opening conversation about the evolution of hormone replacement therapy, what current research is revealing, and how personalized medicine is changing the way we approach aging and wellness. Dr. Maristany explains how our understanding of hormones has shifted dramatically since the Women's Health Initiative study, why bioidentical hormones have become an important part of the conversation, and how individualized treatment plans can help address symptoms that many people are told are simply "normal aging." Then the SpelLife duo tackles another growing health concern: Lyme disease and tick-borne illnesses. Dr. Maristany shares why Lyme disease can be so difficult to diagnose, the wide range of symptoms it can mimic, and the promising new therapies being explored for patients who continue to struggle with chronic symptoms. Whether you're navigating menopause, dealing with unexplained health challenges, or just interested in the future of personalized medicine, this episode offers valuable insights and practical considerations. In This Episode How hormone replacement therapy has evolved over the past two decades The difference between traditional and bioidentical hormones The role of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone in women's health What Lyme disease is and why diagnoses appear to be increasing Common Lyme disease symptoms and co-infections How to test and common treatments for Lyme About Our Guest Dr. Eduardo Maristany is a physician specializing in functional and precision medicine with advanced training in hormone optimization, immune health, environmental medicine, advanced nutrient analysis, and genomic interpretation. After serving for more than a decade as an internal medicine physician, hospitalist, and clinical assistant professor, he shifted his focus toward helping patients uncover the root causes of chronic health issues through personalized medicine. Dr. Maristany combines evidence-based medicine with cutting-edge research to help patients optimize health, longevity, and quality of life. Learn more at: Maristany Medical https://www.ilads.org/    

Healing rarely happens in a straight line, and rarely in the way we expect it to. That's what Jordan Gatlin learned on the healing journey for her son and her entire family. In this episode of The SpelLIFE Podcast, Jill and Gaynell sit down with Jordan—a former OB-GYN sonographer turned regenerative detox specialist—to talk about the years-long path that began when her infant son developed full-body eczema. What started as a desperate search for relief became something Jordan now shares with others, rooted in food, detoxification, emotional release, and learning to trust her own intuition. Jordan speaks candidly about the ups and downs along the way, including one insight that surprised her most: how much a parent's own stress can ripple out to the whole family. Despite challenges along the way, Jordan shares the small, practical shifts that made the biggest difference. Whether you're navigating a health challenge of your own, supporting a family member, or simply curious about a more natural approach to wellness, this conversation is a warm reminder to keep going, even when the path isn't linear. 💡 What You'll Learn Why Jordan believes setbacks are often a "healing crisis": a sign of progress, not failure How one parent's stress can affect the whole family What EFT tapping is, and how Jordan used it during her family's journey Jordan's approach to whole foods, hydration, and easing into healthier habits The mindset shift from reacting to responding The one place Jordan suggests starting: calming the nervous system 🔧 Resources Mentioned Linda Silva, LMHC → lindasilvalmhc.com Jordan's superfood recommendations (Purium) → ishoppurium.com/Environmental-Promise Also referenced in the conversation: EFT tapping, energy healing, Pure Haven clean home & personal-care products, and an at-home baking-soda test for stomach acidity 👤 About Our Guest After a decade as an OB-GYN sonographer, Jordan Gatlin embarked on a healing journey with her family that reshaped her sense of purpose. Today she's a homeschooling mom of three boys and a regenerative detox specialist, emotion and body code practitioner, and quantum hypnosis guide, as well as a passionate provider of superfoods and frequency-based wellness tools. Drawing on what she learned guiding her own family back to health, Jordan now helps others reclaim their well-being. 🌱 Final Takeaway You don't have to fix everything at once. If there's one place to begin, Jordan suggests calming your nervous system. Get present, get outside, and learn to listen to that quiet inner voice. Healing isn't linear, but every small step forward counts. The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and reflects our guest's personal experience. It is not intended as medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your or your family's health care.

Technology can feel overwhelming—especially when devices, apps, passwords and updates seem to change every day. In this episode of the SPELLife Podcast, Jill and Gaynell sit down with tech educator and founder of TechKnowledgy, Erick Montano, for an open and encouraging conversation about building confidence with modern technology. From smartphones and streaming apps to passwords, AI, scams, and cloud storage, Erick shares practical advice to help you feel less intimidated and more empowered in today's digital world. The conversation explores: Why fear is often the biggest barrier to using technology Common scam red flags and how to protect yourself Password managers, passkeys, and digital safety Helpful smartphone tips most people don't know How AI tools like ChatGPT can simplify everyday life Whether you're frustrated by constant updates, confused by cloud storage, or curious about AI, this episode offers reassurance, practical tools, and a reminder that learning technology is possible at any age. Learn more about TeckKnowledgy at https://www.techknowledgyteam.com/ Key Takeaways Confidence with technology comes through repetition and experimentation Fear and urgency are major warning signs of scams Most tech problems can be fixed — you're unlikely to permanently damage your device AI can be a practical tool for travel planning, recipes, organization, and creativity Technology can improve independence, connection, and quality of life for older adults   👤 About the Guest Erick Montano is the founder of TechKnowledgy Team and a technology educator focused on helping adults feel more confident using modern technology. Before transitioning into tech education and support, Erick worked in the visual effects industry, contributing to major films including The Avengers, Captain America: The First Avenger, Thor, and Anchorman 2: The Legend Continues. After moving into nonprofit work in Naples, Erick saw firsthand how overwhelming rapidly changing technology can feel for many adults and seniors. Today, he combines his technical expertise with a patient, approachable teaching style to help people navigate technology with greater confidence, accessibility, and peace of mind.  

Stress is a part of life—but suffering doesn't have to be. In this episode, we sit down with licensed mental health counselor, George Drobinski, to explore practical, real-world tools for managing stress and anxiety. With over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families, George shares powerful insights into how our thoughts shape our emotions and our lives. From the impact of technology and social media to the root causes of anxiety, this conversation is filled with actionable strategies you can start using today. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck in negative thought patterns, or simply looking to build more resilience, this episode will give you a roadmap to help you better cope with stress and create a healthier, more balanced life. 🔑 What You'll Learn Why stress is unavoidable—but suffering is optional How your thoughts directly influence your mood and behavior The biggest hidden contributors to anxiety today (including technology) Practical tools to calm anxiety in the moment How to break negative thought patterns using cognitive behavioral techniques Simple daily habits that can improve your mental health immediately     🛠️ Resources Mentioned Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Reframing unhelpful thought patterns 4-3-2-1 Grounding Technique: 4 things you see 3 things you hear 2 things you feel 1 thing to refocus on Progressive Muscle Relaxation: Releasing tension through breath and body awareness Time Management Awareness: Understanding where your time is actually going Leadership Collier Programs: https://www.leadershipcollier.org/lcf-programs     👤 About the Guest George Drobinski, MS, LMHC, PA, is a licensed mental health counselor in private practice specializing in cognitive behavioral therapy for individuals, couples, and families. With a career spanning over two decades, George has worked extensively in both clinical and community settings, including leadership roles with Catholic Charities and Hope for Haiti. He is deeply passionate about helping people understand themselves, overcome challenges, and live more fulfilling lives.      

What if getting stronger—not smaller—was the real key to better health, fat loss, and longevity? Jill and Gaynell sit down with metabolic health experts Chris Edwards and Nick Newell of Tricore Wellness to talk creatine, muscle, and metabolism. Chris and Nick introduce the concept of the "metabolic master switch" and explain why building and maintaining muscle isn't just about fitness, it's essential for brain function, energy production, and long-term health. They also break down common myths about creatine, explain how it actually works in the body, and share why eating less and overexercising may be doing more harm than good. If you've ever felt confused by conflicting health advice—especially about the numbers on the scale—this episode will help you reframe your mindset and take a smarter, more sustainable approach to wellness. 💡 What You'll Learn What metabolic health really means (and why it's more than just weight) Why lean muscle mass is the key driver of metabolism and longevity How creatine works as a "metabolic master switch" for energy and performance Why eating less can actually slow your metabolism and stall fat loss How to safely and effectively start taking creatine Common myths about creatine (water retention, kidney concerns, etc.)—debunked How to build sustainable habits using a "staircase approach"   🔧 Resources Mentioned Tricore Wellness (Metabolic Health Coaching) Withings Body Composition Scale Creatine Monohydrate (most researched and widely used form) 👉 Learn more: https://tricorewellness.com/     👤 About Our Guests Chris Edwards is the Founder and CEO of Tricore Wellness, a leader in metabolic health coaching and wellness management. With over 20 years of experience, Chris has built programs that support individuals, corporations, and communities through personalized, data-driven health systems. He was named one of the most innovative fitness professionals in 2023. Nick Newell is a Pro Coach and Director of Programming at Tricore Wellness. He specializes in metabolic optimization, fitness, and nutrition, helping clients create sustainable lifestyle changes through education, accountability, and customized programming.     🌱 Final Takeaway Stop viewing your body as something to shrink and start seeing it as something to strengthen and fuel. Building lean muscle is one of the most powerful ways to support your metabolism, brain health, and longevity, and creatine can help you turn on that metabolic "master switch."  

We spend so much time thinking about what we eat, how we move, and how we manage stress—but what about the air we breathe every day? In this episode of The SpelLIFE Podcast, Jill and Gaynelle sit down with husband and wife team, Andrew and Rachael Sharpless, mold and indoor air quality experts and founders of Eco Mold Testing, to talk mold, mycotoxins, and preventive wellness. Rather than fear-based warnings, Andrew and Rachael bring clarity and education to a topic that impacts many homes, especially in humid climates like Florida. Together, they unpack common issues that may affect air quality in your home and how proactive awareness can help protect your health before issues escalate. You'll learn when mold testing makes sense, common myths to ignore, and simple steps you can take to support healthier air in your home. This conversation is empowering, practical, and focused on prevention, giving you tools to ask better questions about the spaces where you live and breathe.     What You'll Learn Why indoor air quality is a foundational part of wellness Common symptoms that may be linked to poor air quality or mold exposure The biggest misconceptions about mold testing and remediation How humidity, ventilation, and building materials affect mold growth How household items like scented candles and cleaning products impact air quality Simple, proactive steps homeowners and renters can take to improve indoor air quality     About Our Guest Andrew Sharpless is a mold and indoor air quality expert and the founder of Eco Mold Testing. With years of hands-on experience assessing residential and commercial properties, Andrew focuses on education-first testing, helping people understand what's happening in their environment without fear, pressure, or unnecessary remediation. His work emphasizes prevention, transparency, and empowering homeowners to make informed decisions about their living spaces. Learn more: ecomoldtesting.com

New year, new goals. But what actually sticks? In this episode of The SpelLIFE Podcast, Jill and Gaynell ditch traditional New Year's resolutions and explore a more sustainable way to design your year: one that's rooted in systems, seasons, and small habits. From the idea of Drop it. Keep it. Add it. to honoring the natural rhythms of life, the Jill and Gaynell walk through how to assess the past year, clarify what matters most, and build habits that work with your personality, not against it. They share personal stories about health challenges, time management, movement, food as medicine, accountability, and why guilt-free growth is the key to long-term wellness. Whether you're craving more energy, clarity, balance, or joy, this episode offers practical tools to help you move forward so you can have your best year yet.     💡 What You'll Learn Why most New Year's resolutions fail—and what works instead The power of Drop it. Keep it. Add it. as a decision-making framework How to assess your life using tools like the Wheel of Life How honoring seasonal rhythms can reduce burnout and guilt How to build habits by starting small How food, movement, and mindfulness support long-term health and longevity 🔧 Resources Mentioned The Wheel of Life (IPEC and other versions online) The 5 Second Rule & Your Best Year Ever – Mel Robbins Atomic Habits – James Clear Shane Parrish - "The Knowledge Project" Remarkable Workbook Oura Ring (sleep, recovery, and wellness tracking) Kaiut Yoga (nervous system regulation & movement practice) Transcendental Meditation Food as Medicine principles (fiber, protein, whole foods) 👉 Full resource list will be shared on social media.

What does it really take to support someone living with dementia, and how can families proactively care for cognitive health? In this episode of The SpelLIFE Podcast, Jill and Gaynell sit down with Dr. Anthony Daffner-Milos to answer that question. Dr. Daffner-Milos is a quadruple board-certified physical therapist and founder of ADM, Doctor of Physical Therapy. Drawing on his concierge practice in Marco Island and Naples, Dr. Anthony shares strategies to keep individuals with dementia safe, active, and engaged, while also supporting caregivers. From early warning signs to home safety, physical activity, and lifestyle strategies, this conversation provides practical, real-world guidance for families navigating dementia. 💡 What You'll Learn How early signs of dementia can show up—often in falls, memory lapses, or difficulty with daily activities. Nutrition, lifestyle, and cognitive exercises that promote brain health, including mental stimulation apps like Lumosity and BrainHQ. Home safety strategies—from rails and rugs to memory aids and voice-activated reminders—to help loved ones maintain independence. Support strategies for caregivers, including managing emotional and physical demands and knowing when to ask for help. 👤 About Our Guest Dr. Anthony Daffner-Milos is a physical therapist specializing in geriatric, neurological, and orthopedic care, with advanced certification in McKenzie Diagnosis & Therapy. He founded ADM Doctor of Physical Therapy, a concierge PT practice that delivers personalized care directly to patients' homes, offices, or seasonal residences in Southwest Florida. 🌐 Resources & Tools Mentioned ADM Doctor of Physical Therapy: Concierge PT at Home Alzheimer's Association: alz.org Brain training apps: Lumosity, BrainHQ Positive approach to care with Teepasnow ✅ Final Thoughts from Dr. Anthony Early assessment and intervention are essential—start with a baseline from a neurologist or physical therapist. Stay active physically, mentally, and socially to support cognitive health. Caregivers: seek support when you need it; a strong network makes a difference. 📞 Contact Dr. Anthony Daffner-Milos Phone: 239-944-6318 Email: [email protected]

In this episode of The SpelLIFE Podcast, Jill and Gaynell sit down with Kristen Goodman, founder of Clicking with Kristen, to talk about the power of preserving family stories and memories before they fade away. Kristen shares how she and her daughter, Madisyn, help families digitize, organize, and protect their most cherished photos, and videos—and how those efforts often lead to healing, connection, and rediscovery. From photo restoration after hurricanes to creating "legacy videos" that capture personal stories for future generations, Kristen shows how modern technology and human care can come together to keep history alive. The SpelLIFE crew also gives listeners a preview of Kristen's annual event, The Legacy Effect, happening November 3rd at the Hilton Naples, which brings together experts in storytelling, pre-planning, estate guidance, and memory preservation. Whether you're sitting on boxes of old photos or thinking about how you'll be remembered, this conversation will inspire you to take the first step toward preserving your family's legacy. Get tickets to The Legacy Effect: https://square.link/u/lZFoGIv5?src=sheet  Key Takeaways Why preserving your photos and videos matters more than ever in the digital age The emotional benefits that come from revisiting and retelling family stories Common mistakes people make when organizing old photos—and how to avoid them What a Legacy Video is, and why it's one of the most powerful gifts you can give your family How to safely store photos, videos, and digital files in different climates What to expect at the upcoming Legacy Effect event and how it helps families plan for the future

What if one of the simplest ways to improve your health, reduce stress, and sleep better was right beneath your feet? In this episode of The SpelLIFE Podcast, Jill and Gaynell dive into the science and practice of earthing—the act of making direct contact with the Earth's surface.  Gaynell discusses how connecting with the Earth's natural energy for just a few minutes a day can restore balance and resilience in your body. Jill and Gaynell ask, "is this legit?!" and share what they know about how earthing may impact inflammation, cortisol levels, sleep quality, and more. The SpelLIFE duo also walks you through a guided grounding session you can do right along with them. Plus, you'll get tips on tools like grounding shoes, bedsheets, and pads for your tech-heavy desk. Whether you're barefoot in the backyard or curious about the "umbrella effect" of Earth's protective energy, this conversation will leave you inspired to reconnect with nature in simple, meaningful ways.   💡 What You'll Learn What earthing (also known as "grounding") is and why it matters The science behind free electrons, inflammation reduction, and cortisol balance How grounding can improve sleep, recovery, and resilience to stress Personal stories and practices that reveal grounding's healing power Practical ways to get started—from walking barefoot to using grounding shoes and sheets A mini guided grounding session you can try at home ✅ Resources Gaynell's website where you can find a blog on earthing/grounding: www.coretofloorwellness.com  Grounding sheets and Terra grounding shoes: TheGroundingCo.com Earthing.com