Episodios

  • 35. The One Where We Talk About Money with April Stroink

    35. The One Where We Talk About Money with April Stroink
    Jul 2 2025
    Money stress is real—and it’s probably messing with your energy more than you think.If you've ever woken up at 3am panicking over your credit card bill (or avoided opening your banking app altogether), this episode is for you.I’m joined by the incredible April Stroink—a money coach, advisor, and Profit First pro—to talk about the side of financial wellness no one’s really talking about: how money impacts your physical and emotional health.We get into money shame, financial fatigue, family patterns, why women often carry the weight of money stress differently, and how to start feeling more empowered—without needing to be great at math or turning into someone who “loves budgeting.”Key Takeaways: There’s tired... and then there’s “money stress” tiredI share how financial stress showed up in my body, and why this kind of stress is a special kind of exhausting.Your money habits aren’t randomApril explains how our money mindset gets shaped early and how 4 specific behaviours shape our money “personality” .Why so many of us feel shame around moneyWhether you grew up with not enough, feel guilty for wanting more, or struggle to talk to your partner about it—shame keeps money conversations hidden which makes us feel like we’re the only ones “not good with money”Spend in a way that actually feels goodBuying yourself something you love? Great. Buying stuff to feel worthy? Not so great. April shares how to start aligning your spending with your actual values.The most practical money tip I’ve ever heardGive your money a job. It sounds simple, but it’s a game-changer. Think labeled savings accounts, automation, and a plan that matches your real life.Money + relationships: it’s a thingWe chat about how to stop avoiding money convos with your partner and what it looks like to collaborate—especially if you’re in a caregiving role or have stepped back from earning.Feeling overwhelmed? Start smallApril’s advice is simple: open a savings account just for you. It doesn’t have to be big to be powerful.Helpful resources: April's Money Behaviours Quiz: https://discover.aprilstroink.com/money-behaviour-quiz-1Book we love: The Soul of Money by Lynne TwistAPRIL IS A MONEY COACH AND FINANCIAL ADVISOR WHO SPECIALIZES IN HELPING PEOPLE CREATE AND ENJOY FINANCIAL WELLBEING IN THEIR BUSINESSES AND PERSONAL LIVES.SHE'S THE CREATOR OF THE MONEY FIX - A SUITE OF PROGRAMS TO INCREASE FINANCIAL LITERACY FOR ENTREPRENEURS. A CERTIFIED PROFIT FIRST PROFESSIONAL, APRIL HAS HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE INCREASING THE PROFITS FOR MULTIPLE BUSINESSES (INCLUDING HER OWN) THROUGH A PROVEN, GLOBALLY RECOGNIZED SYSTEM THAT MAKES BUSINESSES MORE PROFITABLE.APRIL IS A GIFTED TEACHER AND SPEAKER WHO LEADS NUMEROUS WORKSHOPS ANNUALLY AT LOCAL COLLEGES, BUSINESS ASSOCIATIONS AND MASTERMINDS.SHE'S HELPED HUNDREDS OF PEOPLE AND SMALL BUSINESSES LEVEL-UP THEIR FINANCES THROUGH HER WORKSHOPS, GROUP PROGRAMS AND HER ASTUTE ONE-ON-ONE COACHING.IN HER PREVIOUS LIFE, APRIL MANAGED MULTIPLE INVESTMENT TEAMS THROUGHOUT ATLANTIC CANADA FOR A NATIONAL FINANCE COMPANY. SHE WAS ALSO THE OWNER AND OPERATOR OF A SUCCESSFUL HALIFAX RETAIL OPERATION.TODAY, APRIL IS A MONEY COACH - A SUPPORTIVE GUIDE WHO HELPS YOU UNDERSTAND AND FEEL CONFIDENT ABOUT YOUR FINANCES AND FUTURE GOALS. SHE'S KNOWN FOR HER EMPATHY AND JUDGEMENT-FREE COACHING AS SHE COMBINES HER EXPERTISE WITH HER OWN EXPERIENCE OF RUNNING HER FAMILY BUSINESS APRIL VOLUNTEERS ON SEVERAL COMMUNITY BOARDS, AND SPLITS HER TIME BETWEEN HALIFAX AND SOLEY COVE, NOVA SCOTIA.You can find April Stroink on Instagram or learn more about her services on her website.Dr. Sarah Vadeboncoeur is a Naturopathic Doctor, mom, and fatigue fixer who’s on a mission to help women fix their fatigue and get the health care they deserve. You can find her talking about all things fatigue on Instagram and learn more about her services at drsarahv.ca.The Fatigue Fixer is produced by Story Studio Network.
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    48 m
  • 34. The One Where You Declutter and Shop Less

    34. The One Where You Declutter and Shop Less
    Jun 18 2025
    If you’ve ever looked around your house and thought "How did I end up with so much stuff?" —
    this episode is for you.

    In this honest and relatable conversation, I’m breaking down how clutter and consumer culture might be quietly contributing to your fatigue, stress, and overwhelm. We’re talking about the physical, mental, emotional (and even environmental) costs of all that “stuff” — and how shopping less can actually help you feel more energized, calm, and in control.

    Key Takeaways:
    • The Hidden Physical Drain of Clutter: constant tidying, sensory overload, and how it steals your time and energy.

    • The Mental Load of Managing Stuff: decision fatigue, research rabbit holes, and low-level stress you may not even realize is there.

    • The Emotional Toll: guilt over unused purchases, the fleeting high of shopping, and how consumer culture preys on women’s insecurities.

    • The sneaky role of capitalism, advertising, and social media in keeping you stuck in the buy-declutter-repeat cycle.

    • Why real joy and energy come from experiences, rest, and connection — not from accumulating more.

    • Simple, practical steps to shop more mindfully, declutter without overwhelm, and make peace with the things you already own.

    Helpful Resources:

    Take the Fatigue Fingerprint Quiz: fatiguefixer.ca/quiz

    Learn more about Project 333 (Capsule Wardrobe):     bemorewithless.com/project-333

    Explore your local 'Buy Nothing' group for community-based sharing

    DM me your decluttering wins on Instagram: @sarahvadeboncoeur


    Dr. Sarah Vadeboncoeur is a Naturopathic Doctor, mom, and fatigue fixer who’s on a mission to help women fix their fatigue and get the health care they deserve. You can find her talking about all things fatigue on Instagram and learn more about her services at drsarahv.ca.

    The Fatigue Fixer is produced by Story Studio Network.
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    34 m
  • 33. The One That Makes You Rethink Thyroid Health with Victoria Gasparini

    33. The One That Makes You Rethink Thyroid Health with Victoria Gasparini
    Jun 4 2025
    Thyroid health affects your energy, metabolism, mood, and more—so it gets blamed a lot when we feel tired and heavy.

    In this myth-busting episode, Dr. Sarah sits down with Victoria Gasparini—naturopathic medical graduate, thyroid patient, and the force behind @thefedupthyroid—to unpack the truth about thyroid health. From misunderstood lab results to diet culture traps and misinformation on social media, this conversation will help you see your thyroid (and your body) in a whole new light.

    Whether you've been diagnosed with Hashimoto’s, are living in the land of “normal” TSH but still feel awful, or just want better energy and metabolism support—this one’s for you.

    Key Takeaways:
    • We dig into why so many women are told their thyroid is “fine”, even when they feel anything but.
    • We break down the labs that actually give you answers—and the ones your doctor might be missing.
    • We challenge a lot of the fear-based food advice around thyroid health (spoiler: gluten and goitrogens aren’t the enemy).
    • We unpack the truth about thyroid meds, weight loss, and why more medication isn’t always better.
    • And Victoria shares her personal thyroid prescription—the simple shifts that helped her reclaim her energy and feel like herself again.
    Victoria Gasparini is a naturopathic medical graduate with a passion for thyroid health and sustainable weight management. After being diagnosed with thyroid disease herself, she created the popular Instagram page @thefedupthyroid to share evidence-based information, lived experiences, and practical tools for those navigating similar challenges.

    Victoria’s clinical and personal interests center around helping individuals understand the connection between thyroid function and weight. She is deeply committed to providing supportive, realistic, and science-informed strategies to help people feel empowered in their bodies.

    She is also the co-host of the Girls Gone Wellness Podcast, a show dedicated to breaking down wellness myths and exploring evidence-based naturopathic care in a real, relatable way.

    Dr. Sarah Vadeboncoeur is a Naturopathic Doctor, mom, and fatigue fixer who’s on a mission to help women fix their fatigue and get the health care they deserve. You can find her talking about all things fatigue on Instagram and learn more about her services at drsarahv.ca.

    The Fatigue Fixer is produced by Story Studio Network.
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    52 m
  • 32. The One That Sets The Record Straight On Cortisol

    32. The One That Sets The Record Straight On Cortisol
    May 21 2025
    truggling with fatigue, belly weight, or burnout, and wondering if cortisol is to blame?

    In this episode of The Fatigue Fixer, Dr. Sarah sets the record straight on cortisol—one of the most misunderstood hormones in the wellness world. You’ll learn what cortisol actually does, why it’s not the enemy, and what really impacts your body’s stress response. From coffee and cardio myths to the truth about “cortisol belly,” this episode clears up the confusion, and helps you focus on what matters most for your energy and health.

    Key Takeaways:
    • Cortisol isn’t trying to sabotage you—it’s trying to save you.
      It plays a vital role in keeping you safe and balanced during stress.
    • Your stress response has a rhythm.
      Cortisol spikes naturally in the morning and tapers off through the day—that’s normal and healthy.
    • The “adrenal fatigue” narrative? Not science-based.
      Real cortisol-related conditions (like Cushing’s or Addison’s) are rare and diagnosed by a doctor.
    • Four big factors impact cortisol levels:
      1. Your perception of stress (N.U.T.S. framework: Novelty, Unpredictability, Threat, Sense of control)
      2. Light exposure and circadian rhythm
      3. Blood sugar stability
      4. Inflammation
    Coffee and cardio are not your cortisol enemies.
    Regular coffee drinkers and exercisers don’t need to worry—these habits can support healthy hormone balance.

    Cortisol testing?
    Not necessary unless symptoms suggest a rare condition. Saliva tests throughout the day are best for pattern tracking—blood tests are less helpful.

    Dr. Sarah Vadeboncoeur is a Naturopathic Doctor, mom, and fatigue fixer who’s on a mission to help women fix their fatigue and get the health care they deserve. You can find her talking about all things fatigue on Instagram and learn more about her services at drsarahv.ca.

    The Fatigue Fixer is produced by Story Studio Network.
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    44 m
  • 31. The One Where We Tackle Autoimmune Fatigue with Alison Danby

    31. The One Where We Tackle Autoimmune Fatigue with Alison Danby
    May 7 2025
    Autoimmune fatigue is a hidden health challenge affecting millions of women, often going undiagnosed for years. In this episode, Dr. Sarah chats with Dr. Alison Danby ND, to explore the connection between autoimmune diseases, chronic fatigue, and stress, shedding light on how these conditions can impact your energy, health, and overall well-being. With insights on autoimmune conditions, lifestyle interventions, stress management, and hormone fluctuations, this episode offers practical tips for managing autoimmune fatigue and improving your quality of life.

    Key takeaways:
    • Autoimmune Conditions explained: Why do some people’s immune system start attacking your own body? Some of the most common of the 150 types of auto-immune diseases and why women are at higher risk
    • The Rising Rates of Autoimmune Diseases: How stress and environmental factors could be contributing to the growing number of autoimmune diseases.
    • The Role of Stress in Autoimmune Fatigue: What stress does to your gut and nervous system—and how that impacts your immune system.
    • Hormones and Autoimmunity: What role do hormones play
    • Testing and Diagnosis: How to advocate for proper testing and what tests to ask for
    • The #1 lifestyle factor that helps: And it’s not the auto-immune protocol (AIP) or going gluten-free
    Dr. Alison Danby is Naturopathic Doctor with over 18 years of clinical experience. Her clinical focus is in thyroid, digestive health, and autoimmune conditions.

    Formerly a high school math teacher, Alison's passion for education is evident. She travels extensively, speaking at events across North America, sharing her knowledge and experience on the integrative approach to autoimmune.

    In her free time, you’ll find her traveling, gardening, trail walking with her dog Olive, or paddling on tranquil waters.

    Learn more about Dr. Danby at alisondanby.com or follow her on Instagram.

    Dr. Sarah Vadeboncoeur is a Naturopathic Doctor, mom, and fatigue fixer who’s on a mission to help women fix their fatigue and get the health care they deserve. You can find her talking about all things fatigue on Instagram and learn more about her services at drsarahv.ca.

    The Fatigue Fixer is produced by Story Studio Network.
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    52 m
  • 30. The One Where Your Digestion is Making You Tired with Dominique Vanier

    30. The One Where Your Digestion is Making You Tired with Dominique Vanier
    Apr 23 2025
    Is your digestion draining your energy? In this episode, Dr. Sarah is joined by gut health expert Dr. Dominique Vanier ND, to uncover how common digestive issues like IBS and bloating are secretly sabotaging your energy. They dive deep into the surprising gut-brain connection, the myths behind food sensitivities, and how to boost your energy by focusing on gut health—without restrictive diets or complicated changes.

    Key takeaways:

    • What’s normal? We ask all the TMI questions you feel embarrassed to ask about your poop
    • Why most gut issues start in the brain: And what kinds of management should be part of your gut health plan
    • The lowdown on Food Sensitivities: Whether food sensitivity testing is helpful and how to figure out what you’re actually sensitive to
    • The role of inflammation: And whether you need to limit or avoid certain foods to improve your gut health
    • The importance of Food Timing and Fasting: How fasting affects gut health and whether eating after 7pm is really that bad for you
    A mama and gut warrior, Dr. Dominique Vanier, ND, is a Naturopathic Doctor in Burlington, Ontario who helps patients overcome digestive issues, restore gut health, and find food freedom without fear or restriction.

    Dr. Vanier ND graduated from the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM) in Toronto, where she obtained a four-year post-graduate Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine (N.D.). She is in good standing with the College of Naturopaths of Ontario and a member of both the Ontario Association of Naturopathic Doctors and Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors, and has successfully passed both the Ontario pharmaceutical prescribing and intravenous (IV) therapy board-level exams.

    Dr. Vanier ND has an Honours Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (Environmental Chem) from Queen's University. She completed her chemistry thesis in 2009 on chemical hydrogen storage under the Canada Research Chair in Green Chemistry. Dr. Vanier ND also has a Master of Science from the University of Toronto. She has been a consultant for various organizations in the health industry, including A. Vogel/ Bioforce Canada and the Ontario Association of Naturopathic Doctors (OAND), and formerly developed economic and environmental policy in her role as Senior Policy Advisor for the Ontario provincial government.

    Dr. Vanier ND has completed a two-year fellowship in gastrointestinal health with the Confident Clinician, and has spoken numerous times with the Confident Clinician including presenting to over 700 clinicians on gastroesophageal reflux disease and disorders of gut-brain interaction. Recently, she also served five years as the Vice-Chair of the OAND Board of Directors and brings a perspective and understanding of policy and government to naturopathic medicine in Ontario.

    Learn more about Dr. Vanier at drvaniernd.com or follow her on Instagram.

    Dr. Sarah Vadeboncoeur is a Naturopathic Doctor, mom, and fatigue fixer who’s on a mission to help women fix their fatigue and get the health care they deserve. You can find her talking about all things fatigue on Instagram and learn more about her services at drsarahv.ca.

    The Fatigue Fixer is produced by Story Studio Network.
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    51 m
  • 29. The One Where You Start Playing Big with Jenna Sudds

    29. The One Where You Start Playing Big with Jenna Sudds
    Apr 9 2025
    Too often, women shrink themselves—holding back opinions, avoiding risks, and staying small to keep others comfortable. But at what cost? In this episode, I sit down with MP Jenna Sudds, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development*, to talk about the exhaustion of playing small, and why stepping into our full potential—whether in leadership, work, or everyday life—is essential for women’s well-being.

    We discuss why more women are needed in leadership (not just in politics), how to handle criticism when you take up space, and why speaking up and taking risks can actually be energizing. Whether you’re leading a team, advocating for change, or simply trying to show up more fully in your own life, this conversation is for you.

    Key takeaways:
    • Why playing small is draining and how stepping into leadership can actually be energizing.
    • The urgent need for more women in politics and the unique perspectives they bring.
    • How Minister Sudds navigates public criticism and stays true to her values.
    • What she’d tell her daughters if they aspired to a political career.
    Tune in for an inspiring conversation about embracing courage, taking up space, and leading with confidence.

    *Jenna Sudds is the former Minister of Families, Children and Social Development. She was minister at the time of this recording.

    The Honourable Jenna Sudds was first elected as the Member of Parliament for Kanata—Carleton in 2021 where she currently serves as the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development. She has previously served as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth.

    Minister Sudds has worked as an economist, a municipal councillor, and a community advocate.

    Minister Sudds has received several awards, including a Special Recognition Award from the Kanata Food Cupboard and a 40 Under 40 Award from the Ottawa Business Journal and the Ottawa Chamber of Commerce in 2015. She is a long-time resident of Ottawa, where she lives with her husband and their three daughters.

    Visit Minister Sudds' website here: jennasuddsmp.ca

    Dr. Sarah Vadeboncoeur is a Naturopathic Doctor, mom, and fatigue fixer who’s on a mission to help women fix their fatigue and get the health care they deserve. You can find her talking about all things fatigue on Instagram and learn more about her services at drsarahv.ca.

    The Fatigue Fixer is produced by Story Studio Network.
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    50 m
  • 28. The One Where You Just Don’t Feel Like Yourself

    28. The One Where You Just Don’t Feel Like Yourself
    Mar 26 2025
    Feeling off but not sure why? Mood swings, low energy, and brain fog are often brushed off as “just stress” or “getting older,” but they could actually be signs of perimenopause. In this episode, Dr. Sarah unpacks the complex relationship between hormone shifts, mental health, and fatigue—so you can stop wondering What’s wrong with me? And start feeling like yourself again.

    Key Takeaways:

    🔹 The Mood Shift in Perimenopause
    • Nearly 45-70% of women experience mood changes or depression during this phase.
    • Hormonal fluctuations play a huge role, but they’re not the whole story.
    🔹 More Than Just Hormones: The Biopsychosocial Model

    Dr. Sarah breaks down the three key areas affecting mood:
    • Biological: Nutrient deficiencies (Vitamin D, B12, Iron), thyroid health, blood sugar, inflammation, and sleep apnea.
    • Psychological: Past struggles with depression, thought patterns, and coping mechanisms.
    • Social: Relationships, support systems, and the pressure to “keep it together.”
    🔹 Getting the Right Diagnosis
    • Fatigue isn’t always depression—nutrient deficiencies and hormonal imbalances can mimic mental health conditions.
    • Testing is crucial before jumping to medications or dismissing symptoms.
    🔹 Treatment Options That Work
    • Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): A game-changer if mood issues are hormone-related.
    • Antidepressants: More effective when paired with estrogen therapy (for some women).
    • Exercise: One of the most powerful natural antidepressants.
    🔹 The Power of Community & Self-Compassion
    • Your mental health isn’t just about your biology—stress, relationships, and support systems matter.
    • Therapy, boundary-setting, and leaning on your community can be just as important as supplements and prescriptions.
    Final Thoughts & Next Steps

    You don’t have to suffer in silence. Understanding what’s really going on with your mood gives you the power to take action. If you’re struggling, start by getting the right tests, exploring treatment options, and surrounding yourself with support.

    ✨ Other episodes you may enjoy:
    • The One Where You’re A Raging Bitch is all about women’s anger, irritability and PMS
    • The One Where Perimenopause Comes Sooner Than You Think will help you understand exactly what’s happening to your hormones and why it affects so much more than just your period
    • The One Where You’re Tired Of Carrying The Mental Load explores mental, emotional and sensory fatigue (aka when everything feels too loud and too bright)
    Dr. Sarah Vadeboncoeur is a Naturopathic Doctor, mom, and fatigue fixer who’s on a mission to help women fix their fatigue and get the health care they deserve. You can find her talking about all things fatigue on Instagram and learn more about her services at drsarahv.ca.

    The Fatigue Fixer is produced by Story Studio Network.
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    45 m