The Double A Podcast

So you're ready to talk estrogen — now what?In Part 2, we get into the practical stuff: your options, what to expect when you start, and the questions you should absolutely be asking your provider.We break down the difference between systemic and localized formulations, why the route you take matters (hello, oral vs. transdermal), and what insurance will and won't cover. We also talk estriol - yes, there's a version that works locally without raising your serum levels, and it has some pretty interesting uses beyond the obvious.Then there's the titration dance. Side effects, breakthrough bleeding, what's normal, what needs attention, and why slow really is the only way to go.We close out with a guided list of questions to bring to your next appointment - because the best outcomes happen when you show up to that conversation prepared.Part 1 is still up if you missed it. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Andrea⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - andrea@rmhealthpartners.comwww.rmhealthpartners.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ashley⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ashley@karvefitness.cowww.karvefitness.co

Hot flashes are just the tip of the iceberg.The average American woman lives to 81.4 - meaning she'll spend nearly as many years post-menopause as she did menstruating. So why are we still treating estrogen like it's only about symptom relief?In Part 1 of this two-part series, we break down what estrogen is actually protecting -your brain, your heart, your bones, your joints, your skin, and yes, your bladder - and why getting the dose right matters just as much as starting it in the first place.We also talk about why Dr. Andrea lives by "Start Low, Go Slow" and what happens when you don't.Part 2 drops next week! ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Andrea⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - andrea@rmhealthpartners.comwww.rmhealthpartners.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ashley⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ashley@karvefitness.cowww.karvefitness.coThe Primer on Primary Care-Part 1The Primer of Primary Care- Part 2

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Aaron Kearsley, PT, DPT, CFMT, to unpack a smarter, more effective approach to pain, movement, and long-term performance.Dr. Kearsley specializes in orthopedic and manual therapy, with advanced training in Functional Manual Therapy—a hands-on, movement-focused approach that goes beyond simply treating symptoms. Instead of chasing pain, he helps patients identify and address the root cause of dysfunction so they can move better, feel stronger, and stay active for the long haul.We dive into why so many people stay stuck in cycles of pain, what most traditional rehab is missing, and how individualized treatment can make all the difference—whether you’re recovering from an injury, dealing with chronic discomfort, or trying to continue strength training without setbacks.If you’ve ever felt frustrated by recurring pain or wondered if you should be “pushing through” workouts, this episode will give you clarity and a new perspective on how your body actually heals and performs.This conversation is all about building strength without breaking your body—and understanding that better movement is the foundation for everything.https://www.manualsolutionsphysicaltherapy.com/abouthttps://instituteofphysicalart.com/

Copper peptides are suddenly in everything—and the claims are big. In Part 3 of our series, we shift to topical GHK-Cu and break down what it can realistically do for skin, hair, and barrier health.We cover the core benefits: stimulation of collagen, elastin, and GAG production; improved firmness and elasticity; anti-inflammatory signaling (including TNF and IL-6 downregulation); antioxidant protection against photoaging; and support for hydration and lipid barrier repair.You’ll learn how to actually use topical GHK-Cu—from serums (typically 1–5%) to creams (1–3%)—including practical DIY guidance for small-batch formulations, storage, and application. We also discuss delivery realities: intact skin absorbs only a small fraction, while microneedling can increase penetration 5–10x and may transiently raise serum copper without evidence of long-term accumulation.We finish with smart pairing strategies (HA, glycerin, ceramides, niacinamide), what not to mix in the same step (low-pH acids, L-ascorbic acid vitamin C), and key safety notes for at-home microneedling.Disclaimer: This episode is for general education purposes only and is not medical advice.Want our recommended products and a simple starter recipe? Email us at askdoubleApodcast@gmail.com and we’ll send them your way.

GHK-Cu is everywhere right now—especially in injectable peptide protocols promising faster recovery, better skin, thicker hair, and even cognitive benefits. But what is this copper-binding peptide, and what actually happens when you inject it?In Part 2 of our copper series, we break down what GHK-Cu is: a naturally occurring copper-binding tripeptide studied in tissue repair, gene signaling, and regenerative biology. We focus specifically on injectable use (topical applications come in Part 3).We cover what it’s being used for today—collagen synthesis, post-procedure healing, immune modulation (including TNF and IL-6 downregulation), joint recovery, neuroprotection via BDNF signaling, and even hair regrowth and repigmentation. We also examine the biohacker trend of “stacking” GHK-Cu with other peptides in aesthetic and recovery protocols.Then we address the critical safety considerations: injection-site reactions, hypersensitivity risk, and the metabolic reality that injecting copper bypasses normal gut regulation and can transiently raise serum copper levels. We discuss who should avoid it (history suggestive of copper-handling disorders, liver disease, pregnancy, breastfeeding) and the often-overlooked risks of product quality, sterility, and dosing errors.Disclaimer: This episode is for general education purposes only and is not medical advice.Contact us:Grab Andrea's Skincare Recipe at askdoubleapodcast@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Andrea⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - andrea@rmhealthpartners.comwww.rmhealthpartners.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ashley⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ashley@karvefitness.cowww.karvefitness.co

Copper is essential for energy production, iron metabolism, connective tissue, and nervous system function—but it’s also hiding in our water, supplements, cookware, and even birth control.In Part 1 of this three-part series, we break down how much copper we actually need (RDA ~900 mcg/day; UL 10 mg/day), where we get it (food, multis, standalone supplements), and what typical intake looks like. We also discuss how copper imbalance can present—deficiency patterns like anemia, fatigue, and neurologic issues, versus excess patterns like GI distress, oxidative stress, and in rare overload states, liver and neuropsychiatric symptoms.Copper can function as a vital mineral or behave more like a heavy metal depending on dose, metabolism, and individual context.Disclaimer: This episode is for general education only. Copper status is nuanced and individualized.Contact us:Get Andrea's Copper Skincare Recipe at askedoubleapodcast@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Andrea⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - andrea@rmhealthpartners.comwww.rmhealthpartners.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ashley⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ashley@karvefitness.cowww.karvefitness.co

In this deeply personal and purpose-driven episode, Ashley shares the message from her very first official speaking engagement with the National Charity League Foothills Chapter — a talk that challenges the way women have been taught to think about self-love.Too often, self-love is reduced to bubble baths, indulgence, or endless inward focus. But what if that definition is incomplete — and even quietly exhausting?Ashley offers a powerful reframe: self-love isn’t self-obsession. It’s stewardship. It’s responsibility. It’s the intentional care of your body and mind so you can show up fully for the people and purpose that matter most.In this episode, she explores:Why the message “love yourself first” can leave many women stuckWhat psychology reveals about excessive self-focus and mental healthHow outward-facing love can actually stabilize and strengthen usA refreshing way to view your body — not as a project to fix, but as a tool to serveWhy loving others often becomes the strongest motivation for true self-careIf you’ve ever felt pressure to fully “arrive” at self-love before you’re allowed to live or love well, this conversation will feel like a deep exhale.Because sometimes the most powerful form of self-love… is living for something bigger than yourself.

Fiber is one of the most overlooked—but most powerful—foundations of health. In this episode, we break down why every single one of us needs fiber, how much you actually need per day, and how to add it in without wrecking your gut. We cover why daily bowel movements matter (yes, daily), who especially needs to pay attention to fiber intake (including peptide users and anyone dealing with chronic constipation), and why hydration and a “low and slow” approach are non-negotiable.You’ll learn practical, real-world targets for hitting 25–35 grams of fiber per day, how to spread it across meals and snacks, and why mixing different types of fiber (soluble, insoluble, prebiotic) matters. We walk through fiber-rich fruits and veggies, prebiotic fiber powders, and whole-food “boosters” you can easily add to smoothies, yogurt, oats, or meals—plus exactly how to use them safely and effectively.To make this actionable, we also share example full days of eating that land right in the ideal fiber range, without feeling extreme or unrealistic.👉 Want a 4-day sample plan that shows exactly how to get extra fiber in each day?Email us and we’ll send it straight over to you. askdoubleapodcast@gmail.comContact us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Andrea⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - andrea@rmhealthpartners.comwww.rmhealthpartners.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ashley⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ashley@karvefitness.cowww.karvefitness.co

In The Year We Built With Purpose, Ashley defines 2026 with a single, grounding theme: Sustain. Not slow. Not small. Just durable. She shares what she wants this year to feel like day-to-day—steady, intentional, and clear—without the constant pressure to push, add, or prove.This episode explores Ashley’s shift away from hustle-driven leadership toward systems, standards, and sustainability. She reflects on what’s been feeling heavy, from mental clutter and overcommitting to carrying too much in her head, and outlines the guardrails she’s putting in place to protect her marriage, health, business, and energy. From raising the bar in coaching and client experience to hiring support, prioritizing retention, and committing to a repeatable pace, Ashley lays out a vision for growth that stays ethical, human, and profitable.Ashley also walks through her quarterly themes, keystone habits, and personal goals—covering physical training, recovery, relationships, leisure, and guilt-free rest—while naming the habits and mindsets most likely to derail her. This episode is an honest look at building a year that lasts, where progress doesn’t come at the cost of presence, and success doesn’t require burnout.Contact us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Andrea⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - andrea@rmhealthpartners.comwww.rmhealthpartners.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ashley⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ashley@karvefitness.cowww.karvefitness.co

After our conversation with Dr. Beverly Jensen, we realized there was still so much ground to cover. That interview sparked thoughtful questions, curiosity, and—understandably—some concern from listeners who wanted to better understand what EMF actually is, how human exposure has changed over time, and what practical steps families can take moving forward.So today’s episode is our “Double A Deep Dive” into all things EMF. Our goal is not to induce fear, but to educate, contextualize, and empower. We want to give you the historical background, explain how EMF interacts with the human body, clarify what the research does and does not say, and offer realistic, attainable protective measures—especially for families and children.Contact us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Andrea⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - andrea@rmhealthpartners.comwww.rmhealthpartners.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ashley⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ashley@karvefitness.cowww.karvefitness.co

In this timely and thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Dr. Beverly Jensen—international speaker, natural health advocate, and certified health coach—to explore one of the most debated topics in modern wellness: electromagnetic fields (EMF).Drawing from decades of experience and a background in communication and journalism, Dr. Jensen helps unpack what the current science suggests about wireless radiation, with particular attention to children, developing brains, and individuals who may be more sensitive to EMF exposure. We discuss common (and often overlooked) sources of exposure in everyday life, whether distance and duration matter, and how families can begin reducing exposure without disconnecting entirely from modern technology.Most importantly, this conversation centers on empowerment—not fear—offering practical, accessible steps parents and households can take to make informed choices. Grounded in faith, stewardship, and personal responsibility, this episode invites listeners to consider how we care for our bodies, our homes, and future generations in an increasingly wireless world.Youandemf.comhttps://youandemf.com/emf-protection-guide/Fix It Fast Coursehttps://reticare.com/us/en/https://www.ahaharmony.com/

In this episode, we sit down with Paige Alexander, co-founder of Real Food Recovery, for an honest and grounded conversation about food addiction, recovery, and reclaiming one’s health. Alongside her business partner Jamie, Paige co-founded Real Food Recovery to help individuals break free from food addiction by restoring simplicity, structure, and nourishment through real food.Drawing from her own lived experience and years of coaching, Paige shares how a clear, intentional approach can quiet the constant food noise and create lasting change. She challenges the common belief that moderation works for everyone and explains why a compassionate yet structured path can be essential for true recovery. We discuss what healing a relationship with food actually looks like, how to rebuild trust with eating, and how recovery can lead to greater clarity, vitality, and purpose beyond the plate.Learn more about Paige and Real Food Recovery:Blog: https://foodfitnessbypaige.blogspot.com/Website: www.realfoodrecovery4u.comBook: https://a.co/d/95TTJUm**WE WILL BE BACK WITH BRAND NEW EPISODES JANUARY 6, 2026.

In Part 2, we answer the question so many families are asking: “If insurance feels unaffordable, what else can I do?” After a quick recap of rising costs and shrinking coverage, we break down the legal reality of going uninsured and why many people in states without penalties choose that path.We explore the practical alternatives people are actually using—health-share ministries, Direct Primary Care, catastrophic-only plans, cash-pay medicine, concierge/functional care, HSAs with high-deductible plans, and low-cost travel medical bundles. You’ll hear how these options work, what they cost, and how some families “stack” them to stay protected without paying sky-high premiums.We also talk about the emotional side: the stress of being uninsured, the frustration of being insured but unable to afford care, and the desire for more control.The episode ends with a simple framework to help you decide what level of coverage you truly need. If you’re feeling priced out of the system, this conversation will give you clarity—and real alternatives.https://radiologyassist.com/ra-search-results/Contact us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Andrea⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - andrea@rmhealthpartners.comwww.rmhealthpartners.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ashley⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ashley@karvefitness.cowww.karvefitness.co

It’s open enrollment season, and if you’re staring at rising premiums and confusing plan options, this episode is for you. We break down the three major insurance paths—private plans, ACA Marketplace coverage, and employer-based options—so you can understand what you’re choosing, what you’re paying for, and why everything feels so expensive.We’ll explain subsidies, deductibles, co-insurance, co-pays, and out-of-pocket maximums in simple terms, plus why adding a spouse or kids to employer plans often triggers shocking premium jumps.Then we tackle the big question: Why are premiums skyrocketing? From sicker risk pools to drug prices, consolidation, administrative waste, and employer cost-shifting, we unpack the forces driving costs up while coverage shrinks.Most importantly, we acknowledge the emotional reality—families feeling squeezed, people paying mortgage-level premiums, and the frustration of still struggling to get timely, quality care.If open enrollment leaves you overwhelmed, this episode will give you clarity, context, and a sense that you’re not alone. Tune in.Contact us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Andrea⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - andrea@rmhealthpartners.comwww.rmhealthpartners.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ashley⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ashley@karvefitness.cowww.karvefitness.co

In the second half of our “Immune Boosting” series, we shift from innate defenses to adaptive immunity, mucosal protection, and redox balance. We break down the science behind bovine colostrum, NAC, and glutathione support—plus how heat therapy, sleep, stress regulation, and movement shape immune resilience. You’ll learn practical, evidence-based dosing ranges, sourcing tips, and cautions, along with a functional medicine framework for building personalized, safe, and effective immune protocols.Contact us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Andrea⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - andrea@rmhealthpartners.comwww.rmhealthpartners.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ashley⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ashley@karvefitness.cowww.karvefitness.co

In this first episode of our two-part “Immune Boosting” series, we break down what it really means to support immunity from a functional medicine perspective—focusing on strengthening innate and mucosal defenses rather than overstimulating the system. We explore clinically backed tools like acemannan, larch arabinogalactan, and yeast-derived β-glucans, along with key nutrients such as zinc, vitamin D, and elderberry. You’ll learn how these compounds influence inflammation, gut integrity, and innate readiness, plus how to use them safely and effectively. We also set the foundation for lifestyle and stress physiology—coming up in part two, where we dive into adaptive immunity, colostrum, NAC, sauna, and more.Contact us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Andrea⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - andrea@rmhealthpartners.comwww.rmhealthpartners.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ashley⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ashley@karvefitness.cowww.karvefitness.co

Not all red light therapy devices are created equal. In this episode, we break down the differences between med-spa systems, home panels, and DIY builds — what you actually get for your money, and where it’s smart (or risky) to save.Learn how irradiance, wavelength accuracy, and safety testing affect performance; when a $200 handheld can deliver results comparable to a $1,000 panel; and why “red-looking” bulbs aren’t always therapeutic. We also share trusted brands, buying tips, and key specs to check before you invest.Contact us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Andrea⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - andrea@rmhealthpartners.comwww.rmhealthpartners.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ashley⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ashley@karvefitness.cowww.karvefitness.co

Curious what’s actually happening when you step in front of a red light panel? This episode breaks down the real science behind photobiomodulation — how light boosts your mitochondria, increases ATP, and sparks repair, recovery, and better circulation. We unpack the research on skin health, pain relief, muscle recovery, and more — plus how to get the dose right and stay safe.Next episode: Which devices are really worth your money.Contact us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Andrea⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - andrea@rmhealthpartners.comwww.rmhealthpartners.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ashley⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ashley@karvefitness.cowww.karvefitness.co

As the days shorten and the air cools, our bodies, minds, and habits naturally shift with the seasons. In this episode, we explore how light, temperature, and ancient rhythms shape everything from our hormones and mood to our cravings and energy. Discover why fall triggers fat storage, how winter alters metabolism, and what Nordic cultures can teach us about thriving in the dark season. From circadian biology to cozy “hygge” rituals, we’ll uncover the science and soul of seasonal living—and share practical ways to stay balanced, nourished, and connected all winter long.Listen to last year seasonal episode on combating sickness! https://open.spotify.com/episode/3cCLymuVE50DM08qOEXHdx?si=yWQm3ndqQR-sDvHStnbUGwEmail us questions at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠askdoubleapodcast@gmail.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Find us on the socials!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Andrea’s Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ashley’s Instagram⁠⁠

Today’s episode is a little personal- we’re diving deeper into our own health and fitness journeys. You know, when you think of the fitness space, there’s this image we’re all fed of what ‘fit’ is supposed to look like. And if you don’t look like that, it can feel like you’re doing something wrong—even when you’re making real progress. We’ve both struggled with that mindset, and today we want to unpack it: the pressure of not looking like everyone else in the fitness world, and how to get out of that comparison trap. Our hope is that by sharing our stories and shifts in mindset, you’ll feel more freedom to define what health looks like for you.Contact us:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Andrea⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ - andrea@rmhealthpartners.comwww.rmhealthpartners.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Ashley⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠- ashley@karvefitness.cowww.karvefitness.co