What Women Are

In today’s episode, Sarah answers various questions about women posed to her by her husband, Alex: women and men in sports, Jesus’ understanding of women in the world, a few of the (many!) issues found within the manosphere, women working outside the home, and the need for woman’s presence in the world.Tune in for some unfiltered, real talk with Sarah about how she sees these issues that affect everyday women. Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribe

March 8 has been one of my favorite days of the year since I was a little girl, and that is true for one main reason—it’s my birthday! But at some point in college, after I had already realized that I had a passion for women and a desire to serve women with the teachings of John Paul II, Edith Stein, etc., I also discovered that it is International Women’s Day! Coincidence? I think not. There is so much I could say about this, and I hope to share more with you this month about the vocation of woman and about her unique role in this world. But for today, I thought it the perfect time to share with you a talk I gave last year to a room full of women. While speak most often to women, it is rare to speak at an event where the intentional purpose is to gather women together from every age group and life season. There is so much we can learn from each other as women—no matter our age—and I was honored to be able to share that day on the theme of “Generations of Love.” I hope you enjoy this talk, which really invites each of us to understand more deeply our call as women and the ways that we can bring life into this world, simply by being who we are. (“Generations of Love” was originally delivered and recorded on May 3, 2025 at a women’s brunch in Canyon Lake, TX.)Get full access to What Women Are here.Shop What Women Are Merchandise here. Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribe

Join Dr. Sarah Lorio for another episode of the What Women Are Podcast as she shares another conversation with her dear friend, Dr. Angela Parise, MD, a pro-life OB-GYN with a deep passion for women's health.In this week’s episode, Dr. Parise beautifully shares her personal journey within her OB-GYN practice and the hard decision she faced when she ultimately decided to stop prescribing birth control. As she reflects on the humility she needed to dive deeper in her understanding of a woman’s cycle and to learn more about the various biomarkers women observe within their fertility, she emphasizes her consistent desire to serve women through the holistic approach of Restorative Reproductive Medicine and its understanding of women’s health through fertility awareness. This personal and professional transition for Dr. Parisi accompanied an ever-present commitment to listen to her patients and to recognize the spiritual and emotional dimensions of healthcare. You don’t want to miss this beautiful conversation! This conversation delves into the importance of humility in medicine, the need for open dialogue among healthcare professionals, and the significance of community support. Dr. Parise recounts her experiences with patients and the transformative moments that led her to reevaluate her medical practice. The episode emphasizes the necessity of compassion and understanding in healthcare, particularly for women navigating the complexities of motherhood and reproductive health. Ultimately, Sarah and Dr. Parise highlight the importance of being a bridge for women, advocating for their health, and fostering a supportive environment in the medical community.Dr. Parise is a Catholic Pro-life OBGYN who started the Catholic Medical Association Guild in New Orleans. She is also involved in medical student and medical resident mentorship. Dr. Angela Marie Parise is a fellow in the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN). She earned her medical degree from SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn in 2001 and completed her residency at Ochsner Health in 2005 where she served as the Chief Administrative Resident. She received the Special Excellence Award in Endoscopic Procedures during her last year of training. Additionally, Dr. Parise works closely with women seeking natural planning pregnancy methods, especially those with reasons of faith.Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribeShop the What Women Are merchandise here! Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the What Women Are podcast, Sarah interviews Dr. Angela Parise, an OB/GYN with a deep passion for women's health. They discuss Angela's journey from her childhood in Staten Island, NY, to her medical career: highlighting the influence of family, faith, and mentorship. Angela shares some of her experiences in the medical field, the challenges of balancing personal and professional life, and the importance of patient-centered care. The conversation delves into the complexities of the medical profession, and the duality of joy and sorrow in medicine. Angela emphasizes the gift of healing that women possess and the profound impact of faith in her practice.Other highlights from this episode: *Angela's childhood experiences shaped her desire to heal.*Faith played a crucial role in Angela's journey to medicine.*The importance of treating patients as whole individuals, not just their ailments.*Mentorship can significantly influence career paths in medicine.*The chaos of surgery can provide a sense of control amidst personal turmoil.*Patient-centered care is essential for building trust in the physician-patient relationship.*The integration of midwifery and OB care can enhance patient experiences.*Women often face societal pressures that affect their healthcare choices.*The emotional weight of being a physician can lead to burnout if not managed.*Hope and healing are central themes in Angela's practice and patient interactions.Dr. Parise is a Catholic Pro-life OB/GYN who started the Catholic Medical Association Guild in New Orleans. She is also involved in medical student and medical resident mentorship. Dr. Angela Marie Parise is a fellow in the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN). She earned her medical degree from SUNY Downstate in Brooklyn in 2001 and completed her residency at Ochsner Health in 2005 where she served as the Chief Administrative Resident. She received the Special Excellence Award in Endoscopic Procedures during her last year of training. Additionally, Dr. Parise works closely with women seeking natural planning pregnancy methods, especially those with reasons of faith. Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribeShop the What Women Are merchandise here! Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Sarah shares a talk that she recently gave to young women in college about her journey and insights on the importance of community, the theology of the body, and the unique vocation of women. She emphasizes the power of prayer and love, encouraging listeners to take Jesus into their daily lives, recognize God's voice, and utilize scripture as a tool for empowerment and spiritual growth. The conversation culminates in a prayer for hope and encouragement, reminding everyone that "Love is victorious because it prays."Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribeShop the What Women Are merchandise here! Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Sarah and Shannon delve into the complexities of perimenopause and menopause, discussing the hormonal changes women experience and the importance of individualized care. They explore the impact of inflammation and stress on hormonal health, the significance of strength training, and the evolving narrative around hormone replacement therapy. The conversation also touches on emotional health during menopause, the challenges of infertility, and the resources available for women seeking to understand their bodies better.Other highlights from this episode:- Perimenopause is often misunderstood and can start as early as age 35.- Hormonal changes during perimenopause are highly individualized.- Estrogen and progesterone play crucial roles in overall health.- Inflammation can significantly impact hormonal balance.- Healthy eating and stress management are vital for hormonal health.- Women should not suffer in silence during menopause; support is available.- Strength training is essential for maintaining muscle and bone health.- The narrative around hormone replacement therapy is changing positively.- Emotional and mental health are critical during the transition to menopause.- Restorative reproductive medicine offers hope for women struggling with infertility.Shannon Eaton McCormick is a women’s health nurse practitioner who specializes in restorative reproductive medicine. She is married and is a mother to two young men. She works at Woman’s New Life Clinic in New Orleans, LA. To find out more about her, listen to her story here.Resources mentioned in this episode:Natural Womanhood - A resource that helps educate on a variety of women's health topics. On this website, you can get connected with practitioners who specialize in Restorative Reproductive Medicine and cycle tracking methods. International Institute of Restorative Reproductive Medicine - A resource that teaches more about Restorative Reproductive Medicine and can help connect people with clinics that offer this type of service. Fertility Awareness and Collaboration to Teach the Sciences (FACTS) - A resource for students in the medical field.Springs in the Desert - A resource for those walking through infertility.Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribeShop the What Women Are merchandise here! Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Sarah interviews Shannon McCormick, who shares her journey of working as a nurse as well as the difficulties she encountered in her personal life. Reflecting on the importance of her faith, the difficulties she enountered in her first marriage, and the challenges she faced as a single mother, Shannon's story is one of encouragement for any woman out there whose life has been full of unexpected twists and turns. Shannon discusses her work within women's health and her advocacy for women through her work with Creighton Model and NaPro Technology. She also shares beautifully and vulnerably about her experiences with divorce and healing. This conversation highlights the importance of faith, community, and personal growth, culminating in Shannon's decision to become a nurse practitioner and in her finding love again.Other highlights from this episode:- Shannon's journey began with a strong Catholic education.- She transitioned through various fields before settling on nursing.- Her faith deepened significantly during her marriage struggles.- Shannon is an incredible advocate for women's health.- Divorce led Shannon to a deeper relationship with God.- Shannon shares the gift she experienced during the season of being a stay-at-home mom.- Shannon's experiences highlight the need for support in difficult times.- She emphasizes the importance of counseling and community involvement.- Shannon's story illustrates the beauty of second chances in love and the faithfulness of God the Father.Shannon was born in New Orleans and raised in Chalmette, LA.  She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Louisiana State University School of Nursing in 1992 and her Master of Science in Nursing from University of South Alabama in 2018. Her nursing focus has been women’s health. In 2010 she completed her training as a Creighton Model FertilityCare Practitioner.  She is currently employed as a nurse practitioner and FertilityCare Practitioner at the Woman’s New Life Clinic. She is married and has 2 sons.Shannon's Favorite Things:Favorite supplement to recommend: Magnesium GlycinateFavorite TV Show: FriendsFavorite Books:- Glucose Revolution- Walking with God (A Journey through the Bible)- 33 Days to Morning GloryFavorite Cocktail: Moscow MuleFavorite Mardi Gras Parade: EndymionResources mentioned in this episode: Beginning Experience (A ministry for people who have lost their spouse through separation, divorce, or death. Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribeShop the What Women Are merchandise here! Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Sarah reflects on the pro-life movement, emphasizing the importance of how we see the gift of our own lives and elaborating on the battle for hope. Sarah shares insights on what it means to take every thought captive and illustrates with practical tips the daily struggle for freedom and love, encouraging listeners to embrace their unique gifts and live fully in reality as it is. Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribe

In today's episode, Ginny shares about her passion for women's health and providing quality care to women in all stages of life. She discusses her personal story of developing her business, The Women's Health RN, the challenges she personally faced in the healthcare system, and the need for a more integrated approach to women's health. Ginny emphasizes the significance of understanding nutrition, gut health, and the role of education in empowering women to take charge of their health. Ginny and Sarah explore the complexities of nutrition, emphasizing the importance of cultivating a healthy relationship with food, understanding the physiological impacts of dietary choices, and the balance between strategic and intuitive eating. They discuss the significance of individualized nutrition, especially during pregnancy and postpartum, and the role of exercise in maintaining health.Other highlights from this episode:Restorative reproductive medicine aims to treat the whole woman, not just symptoms.Functional medicine can help provide a holistic approach to understanding women's hormonal health.Nutrition plays a crucial role in managing women's health conditions.Women often face challenges in accessing comprehensive healthcare.Education is key to empowering women to make informed health choices.Gut health is foundational to overall health and well-being.Women should view food as nourishment rather than categorizing it as good or bad.Individualized nutrition is crucial for addressing specific health needs.Exercise should complement nutritional intake for optimal health.Long-term health goals may take time to achieve, requiring patience and consistency.Ginny's website: https://thewomenshealthrn.com/ @thewomenshealthrn on instagramPregnancyPostpartum4 free guidesClient applicationThe Women's Health RN BlogGinny Noce is a Women’s Health Registered Nurse and Certified FEMM Fertility Awareness instructor with a master's degree in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine from the University of Western States. She specializes in helping women optimize hormonal health, PCOS, fertility, and gut health.As the founder of The Women’s Health RN, she helps women uncover the root causes of symptoms like painful periods, acne, fatigue, and infertility through personalized nutrition, cycling charting, advanced lab testing, and restorative reproductive medicine. With a compassionate and evidence-based approach, Virginia empowers women to understand their cycles and optimize their metabolic and hormonal health through diet and lifestyle.. Her mission is to educate and support women in becoming active participants in their hormonal and overall health journey.Resources from this episodeFor more information and show notes, visit www.whatwomenare.com Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the What Women Are podcast, Sarah interviews Ginny Noce, a Women's Health Registered Nurse and FEMM instructor. Ginny shares her personal journey, including her struggles with faith, relationships, and health. She discusses the importance of friendship during her high school years, her transformative experience at Franciscan University of Steubenville, and how her relationship with her husband, John, has been a pivotal gift in shaping her life. Throughout her conversation with Sarah, Ginny emphasizes the significance of healthy relationships, personal growth, the role of nutrition in overall health, the challenges she faced with PCOS, and the value of relying on God throughout her story. Other highlights from this episode: Ginny's journey of overcoming personal struggles and finding her faith.The role of faith and friendship in finding her identity through high school and college. Ginny's personal experience with PCOS shaped her approach to educating women about their hormonal health.The importance of discernment and dependence on God for the big and small decisions throughout her life. PCOS is a common issue that many women face, and there are nutritional choices that can help support women struggling with this (and many other) hormonal health issues.Education in women's health is vital for personal empowerment.Ginny Noce is a Women’s Health Registered Nurse and Certified FEMM Fertility Awareness instructor with a master's degree in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine from the University of Western States. She specializes in helping women optimize hormonal health, PCOS, fertility, and gut health.As the founder of The Women’s Health RN, she helps women uncover the root causes of symptoms like painful periods, acne, fatigue, and infertility through personalized nutrition, cycling charting, advanced lab testing, and restorative reproductive medicine. With a compassionate and evidence-based approach, Virginia empowers women to understand their cycles and optimize their metabolic and hormonal health through diet and lifestyle.. Her mission is to educate and support women in becoming active participants in their hormonal and overall health journey.For more information and show notes visit ⁠https://www.whatwomenare.com/podcast⁠ ⁠Click here to become a paid subscriber.⁠⁠Shop our new podcast merchandise here! Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribe

In today's episode, Sarah sits down again with Sister Tracey as they explore the power of words and their connection to the Incarnation. While discussing practical steps for spiritual growth, they explore the reality of communing with God in the midst of our ordinary, daily lives. Their conversation emphasizes the significance of community and encouragement in one's spiritual journey, all while highlighting the need we all have to take every thought captive to Christ, allowing Him to help us discern which thoughts and words we have taken in are life-giving and which ones are not.Other highlights from this episode:Christmas is the ultimate celebration of the Incarnation of Christ.The power of words can shape our reality and self-perception, which is why it's so important that we pay attention to them.Contemplation in prayer allows us to process what we've experienced and then maturely respond to it.Taking every thought captive can be immensely beneficial for spiritual growth.Trusting in God's Word brings peace and clarity.Journaling can help us process emotions and thoughts and remember how God has been present to us.Life seasons affect our spiritual practices and growth.Scripture is a spiritual weapon; use it!God is present to each of us in our daily lives. His constant invitation is for us to see and hear Him present to us. Sr. Tracey Matthia Dugas is a Cajun girl from St. Martinville, Louisiana. As a teen, one of her big goals in life was to get a job at the mall so she could “get a really good discount at The Gap.” Yet at the same time she hungered for something more and kept asking herself, “What do I really want?” Her favorite thing about being consecrated to God is that she's God's "audio-visual," called to communicate Him and His love and truth to everyone. Sr. Tracey is currently stationed in Boston, MA, at the motherhouse, where she serves as the Director of Mission Advancement for The Daughters of St. Paul (USA and Toronto). The Pauline Sisters have bookstores around the world where they offer a place of faith and hope for people to come and be close to Jesus in the Eucharistic Chapel as well as through books, music, and videos. When she’s not singing, Sr. Tracey spends much of her time facilitating her community of sisters and speaking God's Word at retreats, at conferences, and on the radio.For more information and show notes visit https://www.whatwomenare.com/podcast Click here to become a paid subscriber.Shop our new podcast merchandise here! Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the What Women Are podcast, Sarah sits down with Sister Tracey Dugas, who shares her personal journey of faith, discernment, and call to religious life. From her early experiences in South Louisiana to living out her Vocation with the Daughters of St. Paul (FSP), Sister Tracey reflects on the importance of recognizing God's voice and the ongoing process of discernment. She discusses the distinctions between nuns and sisters, the significance of professing vows, and how different vocations can inspire one another. This conversation highlights the beauty of every woman's call to be a bride of Christ and the interconnectedness of how the different vocations are each a unique response to this call.Other highlights from this episode:Sister Tracy emphasizes the importance of listening to God's voice in discernment.Her early life experiences shaped her understanding of love and faith.A significant accident in her childhood led to a deeper awareness of God's presence.Retreats can provide transformative experiences that shift perspectives on life and faith.The journey of discernment is ongoing and requires openness to God's invitations.Religious life is about being sent out to serve and share God's love with others.Nuns and sisters have different roles but share a common goal of serving God.The beauty of marriage and religious life can inspire and enrich one another.Chastity is a form of spiritual motherhood, nurturing those around us.In Scripture, the readiness of the bride for her bridegroom reflects the invitation for each of us to prepare and make a place for God in the intimate center of our beingSr. Tracey Matthia Dugas is a Cajun girl from St. Martinville, Louisiana. As a teen, one of her big goals in life was to get a job at the mall so she could “get a really good discount at The Gap.” Yet at the same time she hungered for something more and kept asking herself, “What do I really want?” Her favorite thing about being consecrated to God is that she's God's "audio-visual," called to communicate Him and His love and truth to everyone. Sr. Tracey is currently stationed in Boston, MA, at the motherhouse, where she serves as the Director of Mission Advancement for The Daughters of St. Paul (USA and Toronto). The Pauline Sisters have bookstores around the world where they offer a place of faith and hope for people to come and be close to Jesus in the Eucharistic Chapel as well as through books, music, and videos. When she’s not singing, Sr. Tracey spends much of her time facilitating her community of sisters and speaking God's Word at retreats, at conferences, and on the radio.Access the show notes and learn more about Sister Tracey ⁠here at the website⁠. ⁠Click here to become a paid subscriber.⁠⁠Shop our new merchandise here.⁠ Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Sarah sits down again with Carly to explore how to best accompany women in various stages of life in the arena of mental health. They discuss the complexities of postpartum depression, its prevalence, and the importance of seeking help.  They talk about the necessity of self-care and setting boundaries. Carly also provides insights on how parents can connect and walk with their adolescent children as they are growing in their capacity to know themselves and relate to the world around them. This conversation offers encouragement for women and a reminder that they are not alone in their struggles.Other highlights from this episode: Practicals for recognizing the signs and symptoms of postpartum depression and the importance of support systems.The impact of social media on women's mental health.The importance of setting boundaries and prioritizing self care for the sake of best loving those in our lives. The value of listening in our relationships. The importance of normalizing conversations about mental health.Women should feel empowered to advocate for their mental health. Carly Nolan is a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Board Certified Counselor with 14 years of experience in both school and clinical mental health settings. She has a Masters of Education in Counselor Education from the University of New Orleans. She currently works in a private practice where she treats adults for a wide variety of issues that include anxiety and depression, grief and loss, women’s issues, divorce, and issues stemming from life transitions.Access the show notes and learn more about Carly here at the website. Click here to become a paid subscriber.Shop our new merchandise here. Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Sarah sits down for coffee with Carly Nolan, a licensed professional counselor, about the journey to having a private practice. Carly shares her experiences navigating adolescence, the value of therapy, and how her background in history informs her counseling approach. They discuss the significance of friendships, the challenges of being a new counselor, and the balance between professional and personal life. Carly also reflects on her spiritual growth and the importance of self-care practices, including gardening, as a means of finding peace and connection. Other highlights from this episode:The importance of connection and belonging for young women. The reality that therapy can be a game changer for adolescents.How learning to pray and listen for God enhances our discernment. The value of self-care to our mental health. Practicals for accompanying adolescent women through difficult seasons. That receptivity is a key gift of womanhood.Want more bonus content? Become a paid subscriber here!Want to see the What Women Are merch? Shop our new podcast merchandise here! Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribe

In today's episode, Sarah sits down with her husband, Alex Lorio, to discuss the importance of educating young men about the gift of their bodies and the power of their sexuality. In their conversation, they discuss the impact of social media and of pornography on young people, and they offer practical advice for parents navigating the world of technology with their children. Emphasizing the need for hope and the consistent opportunities for healing that exist, Alex shares stories from his personal experiences of teaching and coaching young men as well as of working in youth ministry with young men and women. He shares practical steps and encouragement to parents who are navigating raising young men in today's world, and he asks parents to always remember the need these young men have for honest conversations about relationships and the meaning of s*x, for rules and consequences in discipline, and for a space to be able to ask questions. Other highlights from this episode:The value of having conversations with young men and women about God's plan for our bodies and sexuality.How social media has changed the landscape of faith formation.The reality that pornography is more accessible than ever and that we need to have consistent conversations about young men's (and women's) struggle with it.The reality that mental health issues are rising among teens due to social media.The need for parents to set boundaries around technology use.How awareness and intentionality are key in guiding children through the use of their phones and social media.  Freedom from pornography is real, possible, and within reach when we give to someone the right options for consistent support: accountability, parental controls, concrete and physical + psychological steps, fasting, and prayer.Resources mentioned in this episode: Covenant Eyes (Website for more information, accountability, etc.)Bark (Website for help with parental controls, special phones for younger kids, etc.)The Anxious Generation by Jonathan HaidtAlex Lorio has been involved in youth ministry over the past 17 years. An avid sports fan and distance runner, Alex coached Cross Country and Track and Field for many years at the high school level where he is currently a campus minister. Alex lives in New Orleans with his wife Sarah and their vicious dog, Bella.Want more bonus content? Become a paid subscriber!Shop our new podcast merchandise here! Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode, Sarah sits down with Dr. Tara Berner to discuss the importance of educating young women about their biology: their cycles, their hormonal health, and their anatomy. They emphasize the need for parents to have these conversations with their children and encourage seeing the discussion of these topics as a series of conversations, not just as "the talk." Together, they discuss why technology cannot replace the role of a trusted adult and also highlight the significance of understanding how hormonal changes affect a woman's mental health. At the end of this episode, they suggest resources for parents to navigate these topics with their children.Other highlights from this episode: How understanding female anatomy is empowering for women and those that love them.That teaching women to track their cycles can enhance awareness of overall health and well-being.That nutrition and lifestyle choices significantly impact hormonal health.The value of parents actively engaging in discussions about health with their children.The power of technology and how to approach the digital world with young children. The value of normalizing conversations about our bodies.Resources mentioned in this episode: Jason Evert’s website - https://chastity.com/ Covenant eyes - https://www.covenanteyes.com/ Mothers Against Media Addiction - https://wearemama.org/  or @_wearemama on instagramBooks she recommends reading with your children:Forged by Jason Evert and Matt FraddGood Pictures Bad Pictures: Porn-Proofing Today's Young Kids by Kristen A. Jenson, MA (best for ages 6-11)Good Pictures Bad Pictures Jr.: A Simple Plan to Protect Young Minds by Kristen A. Jenson, MA (best for ages 4-7)The Squire and the Scroll by Jennie BishopThe Princess and the Kiss by Jennie BishopDr. Tara Berner is a full-time mom, part-time Family Medicine doctor. She grew up on Bayou Lafourche in South Louisiana, the second of five children to Dr. Claudio & Roseann Guillermo. She graduated with a degree in Chemistry from Loyola University in New Orleans. She met her husband, Augie, at LSU Medical School, who keeps their family well-fed & well-dressed and costumed  (for their annual family picture).What Women Are Shownotes: ⁠https://www.whatwomenare.com/podcastLooking for more insight on how to have meaningful and effective conversations with the young women in your life about their bodies?Purchase The Gift of Her Body (Part 1)Want more bonus content?Become a paid subscriber!Shop our new podcast merchandise here! Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribe

Dr. Tara Berner, MD, joins Sarah again to share more of her story, going deeper into details about her journey as a physician and mother, the challenges of starting a family while practicing medicine, the work of balancing family life with a demanding career, and her personal wrestling with the question of contraception. She discusses the beauty of a woman’s natural cycles, the unexpected joy of having more children, and the importance of creating a nurturing family culture. Tara emphasizes the significance of communication in her marriage and the lessons she learned through her experiences, ultimately reflecting on the essence of womanhood and the gift of mutual support she has found in her husband and marriage. Other highlights from this episode:The need for support and creativity for working moms. How striking a proper balance between family and career was essential for her personal fulfillment.The role of faith in her and her husband's family planning decisions.How understanding exactly how contraception works and affects women’s bodies helps us make informed choices.That understanding a woman’s natural cycle can enhance communication and intimacy in marriage.The unexpected blessings that can arise from letting go of control.How creating family traditions can foster a strong family culture.The essence of womanhood being rooted in comfort and shared experiences.Dr. Tara Berner is a full-time mom, part-time Family Medicine doctor. She grew up on Bayou Lafourche in South Louisiana, the second of five children to Dr. Claudio & Roseann Guillermo. She graduated with a degree in Chemistry from Loyola University in New Orleans. She met her husband, Augie, at LSU Medical School, who keeps their family well-fed & well-dressed and costumed  (for their annual family picture). Want access to Dr. Tara’s Favorite Things? Become a paid subscriber! Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribe

In today's episode, Sarah sits down for coffee with Dr. Tara Berner, MD, who shares her journey from a unique upbringing in Louisiana to becoming a physician, wife, and mother of seven. She reflects on the influence of her family, particularly her grandparents and father, who inspired her passion for medicine. Tara discusses her college experience, the challenges of medical school, and the importance of faith and relationships in her life. The conversation highlights her personal growth, the significance of her marriage, and her aspirations for a family while navigating a demanding career in medicine.Other highlights from this episode include:The influence of her parents and grandparents providing a strong foundation for shaping her identity and mission.Experiences in her father's clinic igniting her passion for medicine.Questioning and exploring her faith during college. Learning how to let go of control and let God lead throughout her story. Friendship with her husband which developed during medical school.Tara's faith deepened through shared experiences with her husband.The value and importance of community and support.Dr. Tara Berner is a full time mom, part time Family Medicine doctor. She grew up on Bayou Lafourche in South Louisiana, #2 of 5 children to Dr. Claudio & Roseann Guillermo. She graduated from Loyola University in New Orleans in Chemistry. She met her husband, Augie, at LSU Medical School, who keeps their family well fed & well dressed and costumed (for their annual family picture). What Women Are Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/whatwomenareofficial/⁠What Women Are Show Notes: ⁠https://www.whatwomenare.com/podcast⁠ Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribe

If you've ever wondered about who I am or wanted to know more about my own story, then this episode is for you! My vocation story is one of adventure, heartache, growth, doubts, joys, and ultimately--miracles! Please enjoy this bonus episode, a gift to precede the launch of Season 2, and feel free to share it with any woman whom you think could benefit from its truth. Scripture verses referenced in the episode:Sirach 37:12-14Ezekial 36:16-37:14Micah 7:7Romans 4:20-21Romans 5:3-5What Women Are Shownotes: https://www.whatwomenare.com/podcastSong referenced in this episode: "The Story I'll Tell" as found here: https://open.spotify.com/track/5ypaD5LqwkhRKBuIptdkVl?si=9fb832b1e0264bdf Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribe

I am so excited to join you again on Thursday, October 30, for Season 2 of our coffee talks! Get full access to What Women Are at drsarahdennylorio.substack.com/subscribe