Inspired Wellness

Episode 59: The Science of Stretching: How Mobility, Breathwork & Nervous System Regulation Help Women Over 40 Feel Better with Mel Baune

If you're a woman in midlife who wakes up stiff, exhausted, and feeling disconnected from your body, this episode is for you. Michelle sits down with certified stretch coach Mel Baune, founder of Stretch and Be Well, to unpack why stretching is so much more than warming up before a workout — it's a powerful tool for nervous system regulation, mobility, longevity, and stress relief. After nearly 20 years in commercial real estate, Mel walked away from corporate burnout and discovered the science of long-hold stretching, breathwork, and visualization. In this episode, she breaks down how just 5 minutes a day can lower cortisol, improve mobility, and help busy women in their 40s and 50s feel calmer, stronger, and more energized — without overhauling their lives. If you've been telling yourself you'll prioritize wellness "when things slow down," this conversation will change how you think about movement, rest, and recovery in midlife. What You'll Learn in This Episode * Why exhaustion and physical tension became Mel's wake-up call after becoming a new mom at 40 * The difference between traditional stretching and the science-based long-hold method * How the 4-8 breath count signals safety to your nervous system and lowers stress * Why mobility is one of the most overlooked pillars of longevity for women over 40 * How to let go of perfectionism and embrace small, sustainable wellness wins * Why corporate wellness matters — and how stretching is transforming workplace culture * The simplest free wellness habit you can start today (hint: it involves a glass of water) * One mindset shift every burned-out, high-achieving woman needs to hear Key Takeaways 1. Exhaustion is not a badge of honor. Constant burnout is a signal, not a personality trait. 2. Long-hold stretches + breathwork = nervous system reset. You're training your brain to slow down, not just lengthening muscles. 3. Mobility is a longevity practice. We naturally lose mobility in our 40s, 50s, and 60s — but it's reversible. 4. Perfectionism keeps you stuck. Five minutes counts. Two days a week counts. Start small and let it build. 5. Momentum drives motivation — not the other way around.   About Mel Baune Mel Baune is a Certified Stretch Coach and the founder of Stretch + Be Well. After nearly two decades in commercial real estate, she transitioned into wellness after discovering how profoundly the science of stretching could transform the body and nervous system. She works with women one-on-one and partners with companies to bring wellness programming to their teams — drawing on her own experience as a corporate professional to serve an audience that is often overlooked.   Connect with Mel Instagram: @stretchandbewell [https://www.instagram.com/stretchandbewell/] LinkedIn: Connect with Mel on LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/melisaabaune/]

Episode 58: How to Age Well Naturally in Midlife | Clean Beauty, Face Yoga & Wellness Habits with Juliana Spaven

In this episode of Inspired Wellness Podcast, Michelle sits down with wellness creator, 50+ model, and founder of Silver Highlights 1971, Juliana Spaven, for a refreshing conversation about what it really means to age well naturally in midlife.   After struggling through perimenopause symptoms including insomnia, anxiety, weight gain, irritability, and burnout, Juliana completely transformed her approach to wellness. Instead of chasing quick fixes, she began focusing on foundational habits like sleep, nutrition, strength training, clean beauty, mindset, and facial exercises — and the results changed her life.   Today, Juliana inspires hundreds of thousands of women online with her message that aging is not something to fear — it’s something we can approach with strength, vitality, and intention.   In this conversation, Michelle and Juliana discuss: * Why so many women are told their symptoms are “normal” in perimenopause * The foundational habits that truly support healthy aging * Why sleep, strength training, protein, and mindset matter more than expensive “hacks” * The hidden toxins in conventional skincare and beauty products * What facial exercises and face yoga actually do for the muscles and fascia in the face * How lymphatic drainage and fascia release can impact puffiness and jowls * Why aging well naturally is about consistency, not perfection * The mindset shift women need to stop fearing aging * How to start making healthier swaps without feeling overwhelmed * Why midlife can actually become your most vibrant season yet   This episode is packed with empowering, practical advice for women navigating perimenopause, menopause, and midlife wellness.   Connect with Juliana Spaven: Instagram: @silverhighlights1971 [https://www.instagram.com/silverhighlights1971/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Facebook: Silver Highlights 1971 on Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565671921576&utm_source=chatgpt.com] TikTok: @silverhighlights1971 on TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@silverhighlights1971?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Website: Silver Highlights 1971 [https://www.silverhighlights1971.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Resources Mentioned: Beauty Heroes Clean Beauty Subscription: Beauty Heroes Subscription Box [https://shop.beauty-heroes.com/products/beauty-heroes-subscription?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Juliana’s Facial Exercise Program: Facial Exercise Program [https://www.silverhighlights1971.com/offers/Pu9sz9bB/checkout?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Sign Up for Juliana’s Newsletter: Silver Highlights Newsletter [https://www.silverhighlights1971.com/contact?utm_source=chatgpt.com] If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend, subscribe to the podcast, and leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify — it truly helps more women discover these conversations.   [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/1f4e9/32.png] Questions or topic requests? Email Michelle to be part of the conversation! Email: michelle@theinspiredwellnesscoach.com [michelle@theinspiredwellnesscoach.com] Schedule a free discovery call with Michelle: The Inspired Wellness Coach [https://theinspiredwellnesscoach.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com] Follow Michelle on Instagram & Facebook: @TheInspiredWellnessCoach Check out my online supplement dispensary for 10% off quality supplement brands here [https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/mwhite1714750877/store-start]!   Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Episode 57: Why You Still Feel Off in Your 40s (Even When You’re Doing Everything Right) + How HTMA Testing Can Help

If you’ve ever thought: “I’m doing everything right… so why do I still feel exhausted, foggy, or off?” This episode is for you. Today, we’re diving into one of the most overlooked pieces of midlife health: mineral balance — and a powerful functional test called Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) that can help uncover what’s really going on beneath the surface. Because here’s the truth: Many women in their 40s and 50s are doing all the “right” things — eating well, exercising, trying to sleep — and still not feeling like themselves. Often, the issue isn’t effort. It’s what’s happening at the cellular level. [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/1f3af/32.png] In this episode, we cover: * What HTMA (Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis) actually is and how it works * Why mineral imbalances don’t always show up on blood work * The connection between minerals, hormones, stress, and energy * Why midlife women are often running on a hidden mineral deficit * Common symptoms linked to mineral imbalance: * fatigue * brain fog * anxiety * poor sleep * hormone symptoms * How adrenal function, thyroid expression, and heavy metals show up in HTMA * Why personalization matters more than generic wellness advice * How HTMA fits into a foundations-first approach to health [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/1f511/32.png] Key Takeaway HTMA isn’t about adding more supplements or chasing trends. It’s about understanding: [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/1f449/32.png] what your body actually needs [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/1f449/32.png] where you may be depleted [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/1f449/32.png] and how to personalize your nutrition, lifestyle, and support So you can stop guessing… and start seeing real results. [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/1f49b/32.png] My Approach (Important) As always, I believe: Foundations come first. Sleep. Stress. Nutrition. Blood sugar. Movement. And then… minerals help personalize everything. HTMA doesn’t replace the basics. It helps us refine them at a deeper level. [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/1f52c/32.png] Interested in HTMA Testing? I’m currently offering a limited HTMA Pilot Program where we: * Analyze your results in detail * Walk through your patterns (minerals, stress, metabolism) * Build a personalized nutrition + lifestyle + supplement plan If you’re feeling stuck, exhausted, or like something is missing — this may be the next right step. [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/1f4e9/32.png] Questions or topic requests? Email Michelle to be part of the conversation! Email: michelle@theinspiredwellnesscoach.com [michelle@theinspiredwellnesscoach.com] Schedule a free discovery call with Michelle: theinspiredwellnesscoach.com [http://theinspiredwellnesscoach.com/] Follow Michelle on Instagram & Facebook: @TheInspiredWellnessCoach   Check out my online supplement dispensary for 10% off quality supplement brands here [https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/mwhite1714750877]! Michelle@TheInspiredWellnessCoach.com   Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Episode 56: Peptides for Women Over 40: An Expert’s Guide on What’s Safe, What Works & What to Avoid

Peptides are everywhere right now—from social media to wellness clinics—but what are they really… and are they safe? In this episode of the Inspired Wellness Podcast, Michelle and Tabitha sit down with board-certified physician Dr. Angela Straface, founder of Feel Ideal 360, to break down the truth about peptides—what they are, how they work, and what midlife women need to know before trying them. If you’ve been hearing about peptides for weight loss, anti-aging, energy, or hormone balance… but feel overwhelmed or unsure where to start—this episode is for you. [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/1f3af/32.png] What You’ll Learn in This Episode [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2714_fe0f/32.png] What peptides actually are (in simple terms) [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2714_fe0f/32.png] Why peptides are trending right now—and what’s driving the hype [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2714_fe0f/32.png] The difference between safe, medical-grade peptides vs. “gray market” options [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2714_fe0f/32.png] Major red flags to watch for when buying peptides online [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2714_fe0f/32.png] Real risks of unsafe peptides (and why this matters more than you think) [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2714_fe0f/32.png] How peptides support energy, hormones, sleep, and longevity [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2714_fe0f/32.png] The top peptides Dr. Straface recommends for midlife women [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/2714_fe0f/32.png] Why foundational health still matters more than any “quick fix” [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/26a0_fe0f/32.png] The Part Most People Aren’t Talking About This conversation goes deeper than the typical peptide hype. Dr. Straface shares: * Why many peptides sold online are labeled “not for human consumption” * The dangers of unregulated products and improper dosing * Why working with a qualified provider is essential Because when it comes to your health—more is not better, and cheaper is not safer. [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/1f9ec/32.png] A Smarter Way to Think About Peptides Instead of seeing peptides as a shortcut, this episode reframes them as: [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/27a1_fe0f/32.png] A tool (not a magic fix) [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/27a1_fe0f/32.png] Something that should be personalized to your body [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/27a1_fe0f/32.png] Most effective when combined with foundational habits like sleep, nutrition, and stress support As Michelle always says: “Foundations first—then optimize.” [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/1f469_200d_2695_fe0f/32.png] About Dr. Angela Straface Dr. Angela Straface is a board-certified physician with over 25 years of experience and the founder of Feel Ideal 360 in Southlake, Texas. After years in emergency medicine, she shifted to a proactive, root-cause approach—helping patients optimize hormones, energy, and longevity through personalized, physician-led care. [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/1f4cd/32.png] Connect with Dr. Straface [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/1f310/32.png] Website: www.feelideal360.com [http://www.feelideal360.com/] [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/1f4cd/32.png] Location: Southlake, TX (in-person + telemedicine available nationwide) [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/1f4de/32.png] Phone: 972-656-1200 [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/1f3a7/32.png] Listen Next If you missed it, go back and listen to: [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/1f449/32.png] Peptides 101: What They Are & Why Everyone Is Talking About Them Apple Podcasts Episode 55 [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-55-peptides-101-for-women-what-peptide-therapy/id1807855386?i=1000762609594] Spotify Episode 55 [https://open.spotify.com/episode/2aQdPGUDVe2U3rnMipcsRs?si=7z0qbs5UTOSyiBW9tSkhBw] This episode builds on those basics and goes much deeper into safety and real-life application. [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/1f4e9/32.png] Questions or topic requests? Email Michelle to be part of the conversation! Email: michelle@theinspiredwellnesscoach.com [michelle@theinspiredwellnesscoach.com]   Schedule a free discovery call with Michelle: theinspiredwellnesscoach.com [http://theinspiredwellnesscoach.com/] Follow Michelle on Instagram & Facebook: @TheInspiredWellnessCoach   Check out my online supplement dispensary for 10% off quality supplement brands here [https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/mwhite1714750877]! Michelle@TheInspiredWellnessCoach.com   Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Episode 55: Peptides 101 for Women: What Peptide Therapy Is, Benefits, Risks & What to Know Before Trying It

Peptides are suddenly everywhere in the wellness and longevity conversation — from GLP-1 weight-loss medications to anti-aging peptides, recovery peptides, and peptide injections being discussed across social media and health podcasts. But what exactly are peptides… and are they actually safe?   In this episode of Inspired Wellness Podcast, Michelle and Tabitha break down Peptides 101 — a clear, practical overview of what peptides are, how peptide therapy works, and what women in midlife should understand before considering them.   If you’ve been hearing about peptides for weight loss, energy, recovery, longevity, or skin health, this conversation will help you separate the hype from the facts.   This episode is designed to give you a foundation of understanding before next week’s episode with a board-certified physician specializing in peptide therapy. In This Episode We Cover • What peptides actually are (and how they differ from proteins) • Why peptides are suddenly trending in the longevity and wellness world • The main categories of peptides being discussed today • GLP-1 peptides and why they’ve changed the weight-loss conversation • Popular peptides like BPC-157, CJC-1295, and Ipamorelin • Peptides for metabolism, recovery, anti-aging, and brain health • How peptide therapy is administered (injections, IV, oral, nasal) • The difference between medical-grade peptides and research peptides • Risks of buying peptides online • Potential benefits and side effects of peptide therapy • Why peptides are not a substitute for the foundations of health Key Takeaway Peptides may become powerful tools in modern longevity medicine — but they are not magic bullets.   Before considering peptide therapy, it’s critical to build the foundations of health first: sleep, nutrition, blood sugar balance, muscle maintenance, and stress management. Mentioned In This Episode • GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide and tirzepatide • Recovery peptide BPC-157 • Growth-hormone-stimulating peptides CJC-1295 and Ipamorelin • NAD therapies and mitochondrial health   Listen to the Inspired Wellness Episode 30 - NAD deep dive with Dr. Priya Patel here: * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-30-peptides-nad-the-future-of-womens/id1807855386?i=1000733865319] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/episode/5wMyrtmqxqPHU8psRycAgY?si=V3lk_acBRWemLjpxUizoQA]   Listen to the Inspired Wellness Episode 52 – Natural GLP-1 Supplement, CaloCurb here: * Apple Podcasts [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-52-glp-1-explained-ozempic-appetite-hormones/id1807855386?i=1000758387133] * Spotify [https://open.spotify.com/episode/0vk0N4PrkjtuIEjuKqjwPr?si=6466061d24bc41a4]   [https://fonts.gstatic.com/s/e/notoemoji/17.0/1f4e9/32.png] Questions or topic requests? Email Michelle to be part of the conversation! Email: michelle@theinspiredwellnesscoach.com [michelle@theinspiredwellnesscoach.com]   Schedule a free discovery call with Michelle: theinspiredwellnesscoach.com [http://theinspiredwellnesscoach.com/] Follow Michelle on Instagram & Facebook: @TheInspiredWellnessCoach   Check out my online supplement dispensary for 10% off quality supplement brands here [https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/mwhite1714750877]! Michelle@TheInspiredWellnessCoach.com   Disclaimer: The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.