Weight Gain After Breast Cancer: Hormones, GLP-1s, & Real Talk on Survivorship Weight gain after breast cancer is real — and rarely talked about. In this honest and empowering episode of the Besties with Breasties Podcast, hosts Sarah Hall and Beth Wilmes break down the physical, emotional, and hormonal changes that make post-treatment weight management so challenging. They share personal stories, expert insights, and practical tips to help survivors navigate hormones, menopause, GLP-1 medications, and emotional health — all with honesty, humor, and heart. ✨ In this episode, you’ll learn: -The link between weight, cancer, and survivorship -How hormones and menopause affect weight gain -The truth about GLP-1 medications and diet trends -Tips for sustainable, self-compassionate weight management 💗 Whether you’re a survivor, supporter, or healthcare professional, this conversation offers hope, validation, and tools to thrive after breast cancer. 🔗 Learn more or support Faith Through Fire at faiththroughfire.org

Women’s Health Unlocked: Cycle Syncing & Nervous System Balance Welcome to another empowering episode of the Besties with Breasties Podcast! Hosts Sarah Hall and Beth Wilmes are joined by fitness expert and functional nutritionist Natali Kummer to dive deep into cycle syncing, nervous system regulation, and holistic women’s wellness. In this conversation, you’ll learn how to: -Sync your workouts with your menstrual cycle to support energy, strength, and recovery. -Understand the role of the nervous system in women’s health and how to regulate stress for better balance. -Shift your mindset around fitness and wellness to embrace your body’s natural rhythms. -Apply functional nutrition strategies for hormone health and self-care. Whether you’re a breast cancer survivor, a busy mom, or simply looking to optimize your health, this episode is full of actionable tips on fitness, mindset, and holistic women’s wellness practices. 00:00 – Introduction: Meet Your Hosts 00:17 – About Faith Through Fire & Podcast Mission 00:25 – Today’s Topic: Cycle Syncing & Exercise 00:57 – Guest Introduction: Natalie Kummer 01:23 – Natalie’s Approach: Beyond Fitness 01:39 – What is Cycle Syncing? 01:49 – Nervous System Regulation in Women’s Wellness 02:05 – Sponsor: Survivorship Bootcamp 03:21 – The Role of the Nervous System in Fitness 03:51 – Why Women Feel Stuck Despite Effort 04:50 – Challenge vs. Threat: Mindset Shifts 06:04 – Positive vs. Negative Stress 07:13 – The Power of Being Present During Exercise 09:10 – Growth Through Discomfort 10:55 – Introduction to Menstrual Cycle Syncing 16:32 – The Four Phases of the Menstrual Cycle 19:50 – How to Adjust Workouts for Each Phase 22:04 – Using Cycle Syncing for Self-Care 22:57 – Boobs in the News (Fun Segment) 25:58 – Making Wellness Manageable: Where to Start 27:05 – Building Habits & Consistency 28:27 – Sponsor: Thrivent Financial 28:58 – Where to Find Natali Kummer 29:19 – Closing Thoughts & Support Links Connect with Natali Kummer: Website: https://www.natalikummer.com Instagram: @nkummer

Empowered Movement: Exercise, Menopause, and Thriving After Cancer Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Besties with Breasties podcast! Hosts Sarah Hall (certified health and wellness coach, breast cancer survivor) and Beth Wilmes(author, nonprofit founder) are joined by special guest Leeny Hoffman, a certified menopause fitness and health coach. Together, they explore how women can use movement to feel stronger, more energized, and more empowered during menopause and beyond. In this episode, you’ll learn: -How to shift your mindset around exercise in midlife -The science and myths of fitness during menopause -Practical tips for building a sustainable, joyful movement routine -The importance of grace, flexibility, and functional fitness as you age Whether you’re a breast cancer survivor, navigating menopause, or simply looking to thrive in your health journey, this episode is packed with compassionate, science-informed advice and real-life inspiration. 00:00 – Introduction: Meet the Hosts & Mission 02:00 – Today’s Topic: Exercise and Menopause 03:30 – Guest Introduction: Leeny Hoffman’s Story 06:00 – Why Specialize in Menopause Fitness? 09:00 – Myths & Mistakes: Cardio, Weight Lifting, and Recovery 14:00 – Hormones, Mindset, and Listening to Your Body 18:00 – The Role of Grace and Flexibility 21:00 – Functional Fitness & Why It Matters 24:00 – Building a Routine That Sticks 27:00 – Boobs in the News: Miniature Dachshund Adventure 31:00 – Final Thoughts: Advice for Women Starting or Returning to Exercise 34:00 – Where to Find Leeny Hoffman 35:00 – Outro & Support the Show Connect with Leeny Hoffman: Instagram: Leenyhoff https://www.instagram.com/leenyhoff/?hl=es Facebook: Leeny Hoffman Wellness https://www.facebook.com/leenyhoffmannwellness/?_rdr Website:Leeny Hoffman Wellness https://www.leenyhoffmannwellness.com/

Menopause Made Manageable: Small Tweaks for Massive Impact Welcome to another episode of Besties with Breasties Podcast! Hosts Sarah Hall (certified health and wellness coach, athletic trainer, mom, and breast cancer survivor) and Beth Wilmes (author, speaker, and founder of Faith Through Fire) dive deep into the realities of menopause, midlife, and thriving after breast cancer. This episode features Jen Schroer, RN, NBC-HWC, a board-certified nurse coach and founder of Clarity Health and Wellness Coaching. After overcoming burnout and hormonal shifts in her 40s, Jen now empowers women to reconnect with their bodies, release perfectionism, and create lasting lifestyle changes. 0:00 – Welcome & Introductions 00:45 – Snake Stories & Menopause Fears 01:34 – Introducing Jen Schroer, RN 02:55 – Jen’s Menopause Journey 06:34 – Common & Overlooked Menopause Symptoms 10:45 – Hormones 101: What’s Happening in Your Body? 16:45 – Emotional Health & The U-Curve of Happiness 21:19 – Boobs in the News 23:44 – Making Menopause Manageable: Little Tweaks, Not Overhauls 28:21 – Coaching with Jen: How She Helps Women Thrive 32:51 – Redefining Success: It’s Not About the Scale. 36:36 – Sponsor: Thrivent Gateway Financial Group 37:48 – Connect with Jen Schroer 40:45 – Closing & How to Support the Show Connect with Jen Schroer: Instagram: @ClarityWellness Facebook: Clarity Health & Wellness Coaching https://www.facebook.com/people/Clarity-Health-Wellness-Coaching/61565380091577/ Website: claritywellnesscoach.com YouTube channel: Nurse Coach Duo https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfvXtSxTwK1Qqgxeupoi2kA Linked in: Jen Schroer https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-schroer-27967a328/

Welcome to another inspiring episode of the Besties with Breasty podcast! Hosts Sarah Hall and Beth Wilmes are joined by special guest Kelly Burke, founder of Career Slay, to discuss the journey of career transformation after a breast cancer diagnosis. Kelly shares her powerful story of being diagnosed at 29 while pregnant, navigating treatment during the pandemic, and ultimately finding new purpose and joy in her work. Whether you’re a survivor, supporter, or simply seeking motivation to make a change, this episode is packed with honest conversation, practical advice, and hope for anyone facing life’s unexpected turns. 00:00 – Welcome & Introductions 00:25 – Mission of Faith Through Fire 00:46 – Meet Co-Host Jamie 01:08 – Young Survival Coalition Conference Recap 01:37 – The Desire for Change After Treatment 01:59 – Introducing Kelly Burke & Career Slay 02:17 – Kelly’s Story: Diagnosis at 29, Pregnancy, and the Pandemic 04:41 – Navigating Treatment and Career at the Same Time 06:12 – Taking Leave and the Relief of Rest 07:38 – Returning to Work: Promotions and New Perspective 09:13 – Beth’s Story: Post-Cancer Career Struggles 10:44 – Permission to Pause and Find Authenticity 11:27 – Burnout, Stress, and Health Warnings 13:15 – The Wake-Up Call: MRI and Tension Headaches 14:54 – Family Priorities and Career Break 16:35 – Planning for Change: Financial and Emotional Prep 17:58 – Launching Career Slay 19:35 – What is Career Slay? Coaching, Podcast, and Speaking 21:47 – Overcoming Self-Limiting Beliefs 23:15 – Advice: Take One Step at a Time 24:59 – Building Your Personal Board of Directors 26:01 – Final Thoughts: Living with Purpose 26:21 – Where to Find Kelly Burke 26:43 – Closing & How to Support the Podcast Connect with Kelly Burke: Website: https://www.careerslay.com/speaking Social: @CareerSlay

Creating a Motivation Mindset: Exercise as Self-Care with Dr. Michelle Segar In this episode of the Besties with Breasties podcast, hosts Sarah Hall, a health and wellness coach, and Beth Wilmes, founder of Faith Through Fire, talk about their personal experiences and relationship with exercise. They welcome Dr. Michelle Segar, a behavioral sustainability scientist, health coach, and author of the bestselling book 'No Sweat,' to discuss how to reframe exercise from a chore to a gift. Dr. Segar shares her insights on the science of motivation, behavior change, and sustainable wellbeing, offering practical advice for making lasting, feel-good habits. The episode delves into key topics such as the pitfalls of traditional exercise motivations, the importance of immediate rewards, and how societal norms impact our ability to prioritize self-care. Tune in for a stimulating discussion that aims to help everyone find joy and consistency in physical activity. 00:00 Introduction to Besties with Breasties Podcast 00:46 Discussing Exercise and Motivation 02:16 Interview with Dr. Michelle Segar 03:18 Sponsor Message: Faith Through Fire Survivorship Bootcamp 04:31 Diving into Exercise Motivation with Dr. Segar 16:54 Boobs in the News: Funny Tweets and Stories 20:10 Final Thoughts on Exercise and Self-Care 30:02 Closing Remarks and Support Information Dr Michelle Segar: https://michellesegar.com/

Navigating Boundaries Post-Breast Cancer with Henry Amar | Besties with Breasties Podcast Join hosts Sarah Hall and Beth Wilmes in this insightful episode of Besties with Breasty as they explore the importance of setting healthy boundaries. Special guest Henry Amar, a renowned life strategist and TED speaker, shares his wisdom on fear-based versus love-based boundaries and how to find the balance that leads to an empowered and authentic life. Discover practical tips and profound insights to help breast cancer survivors navigate relationships and personal growth. Plus, enjoy light-hearted segments like Boobs in the News! Don't miss this enriching conversation designed to help you live your best life. 00:00 Introduction to Besties with Breasties Podcast 00:49 Discussing Boundaries 02:07 Introducing Guest Henry Amar 02:55 Sponsor Message: Faith Through Fire Survivorship Bootcamp 04:09 Interview with Henry Amar: Hidden Dangers of Extremes 13:00 Boobs in the News: Funny and Ridiculous Stories 16:38 Hilarious Hospital Drive Stories 18:11 Navigating Toxic Relationships Post-Treatment 19:41 The Cost of Staying in Toxic Situations 22:13 Setting Boundaries with Love and Compassion 24:36 The Importance of Honest Conversations 30:24 Final Thoughts and Sponsor Message 31:06 A Personal Story of Love and Loss https://www.henryammar.com/ Henry Ammar is a Human Behavior Expert and impact entrepreneur who hosts the Podcast, “Making It Happen with Henry Ammar.” The podcast hit #1 in the Training Category and #6 in the Education Category on the iTunes Charts. As a keynote speaker, he has positively impacted people across the globe, speaking to audiences as big as 35,000+ people at a time. Henry is also published in Forbes and is a two-time TEDx speaker.

S5E23: Empowered Healing: Bridging Traditional and Integrative Cancer Care by Beth Wilmes & Sarah Hall

Empowering Your Kids to Overcome Health Challenges | Besties with Besties Podcast In this episode of the Besties with Besties podcast, hosts Sarah Hall and Beth Willis, both breast cancer survivors and advocates for healthy living, delve into the topic of children's health and wellness. They discuss the alarming rise in chronic illnesses among kids, the factors contributing to this epidemic, and how parents can lead by example to foster healthier lifestyles. From nutrient-dense foods and reduced screen time to prioritizing sleep and handling anxiety, Sarah and Beth share personal stories and practical advice. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation that aims to empower parents to make better choices for their children's future. 00:00 Introduction to Besties with Besties Podcast 00:45 Catching Up and Personal Updates 01:11 Today's Topic: Kids and Healthy Choices 02:20 Sponsor Message: Faith Through Fire Survivorship Bootcamp 03:35 Rising Illnesses in Kids 07:16 Mental Health Concerns in Children 16:15 Boobs in the News: Funny Stories 18:33 Mom, You're on Notice 18:44 The Importance of Sleep 21:04 Screen Time and Its Effects 22:42 Nutrient Dense Foods and Eating Habits 23:09 Encouraging Physical Activity 24:15 Toxic Exposures and Environmental Factors 25:21 Leading by Example 31:47 Final Thoughts and Farewell

Besties with Breasties: Alcohol, Cancer Survivorship, and Healthy Lifestyles In this episode of the Besties with Breasties podcast, hosts Sarah Hall, a certified health and wellness coach, and Beth Wilmes, founder of the nonprofit Faith Through Fire, discuss their personal experiences with alcohol consumption post-breast cancer diagnosis. They delve into the rise of alcohol dependence among middle-aged individuals, particularly cancer survivors, and its negative impacts on mental and physical health. The podcast emphasizes understanding why people drink, the risks associated with alcohol for cancer survivors, and offers practical guidance on reducing alcohol intake. Highlights include insightful discussions on mental health, societal influences like 'mom wine culture,' and healthier coping mechanisms. The episode also features a humorous segment called 'Boobs in the News' and sponsorship messages promoting resources for breast cancer survivors. 00:00 Introduction to the Besties with Breasty Podcast 01:06 Discussing Alcohol and Lifestyle Changes 02:51 Impact of Alcohol on Cancer Survivors 03:15 Faith Through Fire Survivorship Bootcamp 09:55 Alcohol's Effect on Mental Health 12:23 Boobs in the News: Funny and Ridiculous Stories 15:13 The Origins of Pokemon 15:32 Pokemon Go Phenomenon 15:52 The Myth of Overnight Success 16:20 Auctioneer's Ingenuity 16:39 Personal Reflections on Alcohol 18:02 Mom Wine Culture 18:44 Awareness and Coping Mechanisms 20:26 Social Dynamics and Alcohol 26:11 Alternatives to Alcohol 28:10 Final Thoughts and Sponsor Message

In this episode of the Besties with Breasties podcast, hosts Sarah Hall, a certified health and wellness coach, and Beth Willis, founder of Faith Through Fire, discuss mindful eating and the impact of sugar on health with guest Jenna Meyer, a registered nurse and integrative nutritional health coach. They explore the effects of sugar on the body, the significant risks of excessive consumption, and practical strategies for reducing sugar intake. The episode emphasizes the importance of self-compassion, balanced blood sugar levels, and starting the day with a savory breakfast. Additionally, they touch on the benefits of continuous glucose monitors for understanding individual reactions to food. The conversation is supplemented by a light-hearted segment, 'Boobs in the News,' discussing a bizarre alligator incident in Florida. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Hosts 00:48 Meet Jenna Meyer: Integrative Nutritional Health Coach 01:22 Understanding Sugar and Its Impact on the Body 01:39 Sponsor Break: Faith Through Fire Survivorship Bootcamp 02:52 Diving into Sugar: A Pop Quiz and Discussion 09:47 The Addictive Nature of Sugar 10:15 Boobs in the News: Alligators in the Sewer 14:14 Breaking Sugar Addiction: Strategies and Tips 28:18 Sponsor Break: Thrivent Financial Group 28:54 Final Thoughts and Farewell Jenna Meyer - Empower Health Coaching: https://getehc.com/

In this episode of the Besties with Breasties podcast, co-hosts Sarah Hall and Beth Wilmes, founder of the nonprofit Faith Through Fire, delve into the topic of vulnerability. They are joined by Kara, a member of Faith Through Fire, who shares her journey with breast cancer and subsequent mental health struggles. Kara discusses the challenges she faced, including hyper-vigilance and anxiety following her treatment, and the importance of vulnerability in her path to recovery. The episode also covers the significance of seeking intensive mental health care and de-stigmatizes inpatient treatment. Kara's story highlights how admitting the need for help and undergoing comprehensive care can lead to a renewed, thriving life. 00:00 Introduction to the Besties with Breasty Podcast 00:45 Discussing Vulnerability in Breast Cancer 01:34 Introducing Kara and Her Journey 03:17 Kara's Diagnosis and Initial Reactions 07:07 Boobs in the News: Fun and Laughter 11:39 Kara's Mental Health Struggles 15:37 Hypervigilance and Its Impact on Family 16:54 Timeline of Medical Treatments and Mental Health Struggles 17:57 Realization and Seeking Help 19:04 Inpatient Mental Health Treatment 23:01 Finding the Right Counselor 28:57 Encouragement for Others Facing Similar Struggles 31:32 Kara's Life Today and Final Thoughts Guest Profile: https://www.bestieswithbreastiespodcast.com/guests/kara-hadden/ Connect with Faith Through Fire: Website: https://faiththroughfire.org Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/faithroughfire/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FaithroughFire/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrsAo4sAD6_EjGuvqLKP3Rg Podcast available on Apple, SoundCloud, Spotify and wherever you listen.

In this heartfelt and hope-filled episode of Besties with Breasties Podcast, hosts Sarah Hall and Beth Wilmes sit down with Stephanie Girard, a breast cancer survivor with a story of transformation. Diagnosed with stage two lobular carcinoma, Stephanie didn’t just face cancer—she faced herself and asked the hard questions: What now? What’s next? Her answers led her down a new path, shifting her career toward counseling and diving headfirst into a life of greater purpose and service. The conversation explored what it really means to rebuild after breast cancer—not just your body, but your sense of self. From navigating the emotional and mental whiplash that can follow treatment to redefining identity and meaning, this episode is packed with candid conversation, encouragement, and insights for anyone wondering how to move forward when everything has changed. Whether you're freshly diagnosed, deep in the trenches, or on the other side wondering what’s next—this episode is a reminder that cancer might change your path, but it doesn’t get to steal your purpose. 00:00 Introduction to the Besties with Breasties Podcast 00:45 Snowy Day Banter 01:07 Discussing Meaning and Purpose 03:14 Introducing Stephanie's Journey 03:39 Sponsor Message: Faith Through Fire Survivorship Bootcamp 04:51 Stephanie's Diagnosis and Treatment 07:12 Emotional Impact and Support Systems 13:57 Career Reflections and Counseling 14:52 Boobs in the News: Funny and Ridiculous Stories 16:03 A Rude Encounter Leads to a Big Win 18:20 Finding Purpose After Breast Cancer 19:37 Pursuing a New Career Path 20:49 Balancing Life and Goals 24:40 The Importance of Meaning and Purpose 28:24 Final Thoughts and Encouragement Guest Profile: https://www.bestieswithbreastiespodcast.com/guests/stephanie-girard/ Connect with Faith Through Fire: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/faithroughfire/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FaithroughFire/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrsAo4sAD6_EjGuvqLKP3Rg Podcast available on Apple, SoundCloud, Spotify and wherever you listen.

In this episode, Sarah Hall and Beth Wilmes continue the discussion of topics around reducing recurrence/disease progression by introduce the topic of CTDNA testing, also known as liquid biopsy. They explain how this test measures small fragments of cancer DNA in the blood and its potential benefits and limitations. The conversation includes insights from Dr. Cynthia Ax, an integrative breast surgical oncologist, who shares her perspectives on why doctors and patients opt for CTDNA testing, the emotional impacts of receiving test results, and the importance of a holistic approach to cancer care. The episode also touches on issues like the challenge of making lifestyle changes post-diagnosis, the collaborative potential between medical practitioners, and the critical role of mental health in the healing process. Dr. Cythia Aks: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-aks-865bb423/ Guest Profile: https://www.bestieswithbreastiespodcast.com/guests/cynthia-aks/ 00:00 Welcome to Besties with Breasty 00:58 Introduction to CT DNA Testing 02:38 Guest Introduction: Dr. Cynthia Ax 02:56 Sponsor Message: Faith Through Fire Survivorship Bootcamp 04:11 In-Depth Discussion with Dr. Ax 10:04 Challenges in Patient Lifestyle Changes 14:43 The Role of Primary Care in Survivorship 20:36 Boobs in the News: Peeled Bananas Mystery 21:11 The Mysterious Banana Plates 21:54 Community Reactions and Theories 23:31 Personal Anecdotes and Banana Dislike 25:06 Cancer Cells and Immune System 25:56 Empowering Patients with Knowledge 27:35 The Importance of Mental Health 32:05 Final Thoughts and Sponsor Message

Empowering Breast Cancer Survivors with Jessica Balladad: A Journey of Advocacy and Innovation In this episode of the Besties with Breasties podcast, hosts Sarah Hall and Beth Wilmes introduce Jessica Balladad, a six-year breast cancer survivor and creator of the 'Feel For Your Life' app. The app is a groundbreaking tool that helps women perform self-breast exams, track changes, and set reminders. Jessica shares her diagnosis journey and her passionate work in healthcare reform and breast cancer advocacy. The discussion also covers societal issues around self exams, insurance hurdles, and legislative efforts. Find more about Jessica here: https://www.feelforyourlife.com 00:00 Introduction to Besties with Breasties 00:46 Meet Jessica Balladad: Cancer Survivor and Advocate 01:41 Jessica's Breast Cancer Journey 02:34 Faith Through Fire Survivorship Boot Camp 03:47 Jessica's Advocacy and Feel For Your Life App 06:51 Boobs in the News: Funny and Ridiculous Stories 10:24 Challenges in Breast Cancer Diagnosis 15:17 Legislative Efforts and Future Plans 21:41 Final Thoughts and Resources

In this episode of Besties with Breasty, hosts Sarah Hall, a health and wellness coach, and Beth Willis, founder of Faith Through Fire, discuss their personal experiences with stress management as breast cancer survivors. They explore the impact of stress on cancer progression and overall health and share effective techniques such as mindfulness, meditation, and cognitive behavioral therapy. The hosts also discuss the importance of building resilience through supportive relationships and self-care strategies. Additionally, the episode includes a humorous segment called 'Boobs in the News' and information on the Faith Through Fire Survivorship Bootcamp. 00:00 Introduction to Besties with Breasty Podcast 01:03 Managing Stress: Personal Experiences 03:10 Impact of Stress on Cancer Progression 03:25 Sponsor Message: Faith Through Fire Survivorship Bootcamp 04:41 Techniques for Managing Stress 08:14 Mindfulness and Meditation 13:49 Meditation and Sleep Techniques 14:47 Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Affirmations 17:04 Boobs in the News: Funny Tweets and Ridiculous Stories 20:47 Building Resilience and Coping Strategies 25:03 Closing Thoughts and Sponsor Message

In this episode of the Besties with Breasties podcast, hosts Sarah Hall and Beth Wilmes discuss the significance of anti-inflammatory foods and diets in reducing chronic inflammation and promoting overall health, especially for breast cancer survivors. They explore the benefits of specific foods like berries, leafy greens, fatty fish, and flax seeds, and caution against certain meats and processed foods. Additionally, they highlight the impact of antioxidants, phytochemicals, and fiber on cancer prevention. 00:00 Introduction to Besties with Breasties 00:48 Casual Chat and Wicked Movie 02:25 Fidgeting and ADD Discussion 05:01 Anti-Inflammatory Diet Insights 08:44 Sponsor Message: Faith Through Fire Survivorship Boot Camp 15:50 Boobs in the News: Mayo Bowl Madness 18:03 Pickle Bowl Antics 18:34 Anti-Inflammatory Foods 20:39 Exploring the Yucca App 22:31 The Benefits of Tomatoes and Olive Oil 24:23 The Meat Debate 32:14 Antioxidants, Phytochemicals, and Fiber 34:42 Closing Thoughts and Sponsor Message