Join Kendra Fisher as she delves into the complex and often misunderstood world of endometriosis with Dr. Matthew Leonardi, a leading specialist in the field. The conversation delves into the emotional and physical toll endometriosis can take on individuals, particularly women, as Kendra shares her personal journey of navigating pain, diagnosis, and treatment.

Dr. Leonardi sheds light on the common misconceptions surrounding endometriosis, emphasizing that it is not merely about heavy periods or cramps, but a chronic condition that can significantly disrupt daily life. The episode highlights the importance of validation in healthcare, where patients often feel unheard or dismissed. Dr. Leonardi's insights into the psychological aspects of pain management and the significance of a multimodal approach to treatment provide a comprehensive understanding of how to effectively manage endometriosis.

Through their candid discussion, they aim to empower listeners with knowledge and encourage those suffering to seek the support and resources they need to live fulfilling lives despite their challenges.

Takeaways:

• Endometriosis is a complex and often misunderstood condition that can affect daily life significantly.
• The journey to understanding and managing endometriosis involves a comprehensive, multimodal approach to treatment.
• Open conversations about women's health issues, like endometriosis, help reduce stigma and promote awareness.
• Surgery for endometriosis should be part of a larger treatment plan, not the only solution.
• Psychological support is crucial for managing chronic pain and improving quality of life.
• Education on the interplay between physical symptoms and psychological well-being can empower patients.

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Endometriosis360
• The Endometriosis Network Canada
• SOGC
• CanCage

As a warning this episode contains topics of grief, loss, and suicide. If any of these topics trigger you, please don't feel like you need to listen.

Should you need any further help following this episode or at any point, please reach out to the local crisis hotline for both Canada and the US by dialing 988

The conversation between Kendra Fisher and Alice Fuller unfolds as a poignant exploration of grief, particularly the unique challenges that arise after losing a loved one to suicide. Alice's intimate recounting of her relationship with Daniel sets the stage for a discussion that is both heartbreaking and enlightening. As Kendra and Alice delve into the circumstances surrounding Daniel's struggles with mental health and his tragic decision to end his life, they touch upon the overwhelming emotions that often accompany such a loss: guilt, anger, and a profound sense of emptiness. Alice articulates the complex feelings of love and resentment that coexist when mourning someone who has chosen to leave, creating a deeply relatable narrative for anyone who has experienced similar losses.

Amidst the sorrow, this episode also highlights the importance of community and support in navigating grief. Kendra and Alice emphasize that showing up for others, especially during difficult times, can provide immense comfort. Alice shares her experiences of how friends and family stepped in during her darkest moments, offering practical assistance and emotional support without requiring her to ask. This reinforces the idea that genuine love and presence can make a significant difference in the healing journey. Furthermore, the conversation addresses the societal expectations surrounding grief, especially during holidays when the absence of a loved one is felt even more acutely.

As the episode progresses, Alice reflects on her evolving understanding of grief, influenced by her background in journalism and her desire to share her story. She discusses how writing became a therapeutic outlet, allowing her to process her emotions and create a narrative that honors Daniel's memory while also reflecting her own growth. This introspection leads to a broader conversation about the value of vulnerability and authenticity in relationships, encouraging listeners to foster deeper connections with those around them. The episode culminates in a powerful reminder that while grief can be isolating, it can also unite us in shared human experiences, ultimately leading to resilience and hope.

Kendra Fisher invites Michael Spivak, co-founder of Coldture, to explore the transformative power of cold plunges and saunas, delving into their profound effects on both physical and mental well-being.

The conversation unfolds as they discuss personal experiences with cold therapy, revealing how such practices can foster resilience and emotional healing. Michael shares his journey from a hockey player to a breathwork instructor, emphasizing that the roots of his passion for cold plunging stem from a desire to understand and process his inner self. The dialogue captures the essence of how embracing discomfort can lead to significant personal growth, urging listeners to consider how they might integrate similar practices into their own lives.

As the discussion progresses, Michael highlights the evolution of Coldture, from its inception to its current status as a leader in cold plunge manufacturing. He recounts the skepticism he faced from friends and family when he first introduced the idea of a high-end cold plunge, illustrating the common entrepreneurial journey filled with doubt and determination. The pair also touch on the broader wellness community's shift towards embracing contrast therapies, noting how these modalities have gained visibility and acceptance over recent years. Kendra and Michael's chemistry enhances the conversation, making it not just informative but also relatable, as they share laughs and insights about their personal connections to hockey and the wellness industry.

The episode culminates in a rich discussion about the importance of integrity in business and personal practice. Kendra emphasizes the need for authenticity, particularly when promoting wellness products, and Michael echoes this sentiment, asserting that true success in entrepreneurship comes from a genuine belief in one's mission. Michael's commitment to fostering a community around wellness and his reflections on the challenges of leadership provide listeners with valuable lessons on collaboration, accountability, and the importance of seeking help from others. This conversation serves as a motivating reminder that personal wellness practices, such as cold plunging and saunas, can be gateways to deeper self-awareness and community connection, encouraging listeners to explore their own paths to resilience and health.

Takeaways:

• Cold plunging and sauna use can significantly benefit both physical and mental health.
• Michael Spivak’s entrepreneurial journey highlights the importance of perseverance and belief in one's vision.
• Integrating wellness practices like cold plunging into daily life can foster community connection.
• The journey of entrepreneurship involves learning to delegate and empower others effectively.
• Understanding one's personal healing journey is essential for benefiting from wellness modalities.
• Creating a safe and supportive environment for wellness can enhance personal growth and resilience.

For more info check out coldture.com.

Kendra’s conversation with Luke Zarato is a compelling exploration of sobriety, personal identity, and the journey toward self-acceptance. As an alcohol-free life coach and marathon runner, Luke brings a unique perspective to the discussion, sharing his experiences of navigating a life steeped in alcohol culture from a young age.

The episode takes listeners through Luke's transformation from a party-centric lifestyle to one of sobriety, emphasizing the denial and struggles he faced along the way. In a particularly poignant moment, he recounts a pivotal therapy session that catalyzed his commitment to sobriety and sparked a new identity that he proudly embraces today.

Luke speaks candidly about how building connections with others has been a cornerstone of his recovery. He discusses the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in these relationships, illustrating how sharing one’s story can empower both the individual and those around them. As he embraces his role in life coaching, Luke reinforces the message that it’s not just about helping others but also about continuing to reflect on his own journey and growth. This exploration of mutual support highlights the healing power of community, especially in the context of mental health and addiction. Ultimately, this conversation is a heartfelt reminder of the importance of connection, self-acceptance, and the small steps that lead to significant transformations.

Going into the vault with a conversation from November of 2022 with current member of the PWHL's Montreal Victoire and Team Canada, Erin Ambrose.

We dive into mental health, hockey, identity and Hockey Canada.

Kurtis Gabriel, former NHL enforcer, joins Kendra to discuss the profound challenges of transitioning from professional sports to life afterward, particularly in the context of his recent diagnosis of bipolar disorder. The conversation delves into the emotional complexities athletes face when their identities are tied to their sport, highlighting the duality of experiencing euphoria and despair.

Kurtis shares his journey of grappling with loss, both in terms of his career and the death of his father, and how this shaped his understanding of mental health. Throughout the dialogue, they explore the importance of finding purpose beyond athletics and the need for open conversations about mental health. The episode emphasizes the value of connection, empathy, and the journey of self-discovery as essential elements in navigating life's ups and downs.

Takeaways:

• The journey of transitioning from professional sports to everyday life can be surprisingly challenging and disorienting.
• Living with bipolar disorder brings unique struggles, especially in high-pressure environments like professional sports.
• Finding purpose after retirement means exploring new passions rather than simply replacing old ones.
• Grief can be a testament to love, reminding us of the deep connections we have.
• The importance of open conversations about mental health cannot be overstated in fostering understanding and support.
• Practicing mindfulness and being present can help individuals navigate life's challenges more effectively.

Mitch Gourley joins Kendra to discuss the critical intersection of physical fitness and mental wellness within the firefighting community. They emphasize the importance of being in both the best physical and mental states to effectively respond to emergencies, as well as the necessity of addressing mental health proactively rather than reactively.

Mitch shares his personal journey from focusing on aesthetics in fitness to prioritizing mobility and mental resilience, highlighting how experiences from both his career and personal life have shaped his approach. The conversation also delves into the significance of processing emotions and experiences rather than compartmentalizing them, advocating for a holistic view of wellness that encompasses both physical and mental health.

Together, they challenge the stigma surrounding mental fitness in first responders and encourage listeners to embrace their struggles as a pathway to growth and understanding.

Takeaways:

• The importance of mental fitness in high-stress jobs like firefighting cannot be overstated.
• Building resilience before entering the firefighting profession is crucial for long-term success.
• Understand that trauma can come from both work-related experiences and personal life events.
• Practicing acceptance and mindfulness can lead to better emotional management over time.
• Exercise and physical fitness are vital tools for maintaining mental health and wellness.
• Compartmentalization may be necessary during emergencies, but emotional processing is essential afterward.

Connect with Mitch at everydayheroesfitness and on Instagram. Connect with Kendra on Instagram.

Coach Chippy shares his journey of self-discovery and healing, emphasizing the importance of letting go of anxiety about the future and regrets from the past to live in the present moment. As he transitions from creating crypto content to becoming a beloved figure in the hockey community, he reflects on the pressures of maintaining relevance in the digital age and the mental toll it can take.

Through his comedic videos and player impersonations, Chippy aims to spread joy and laughter, acknowledging the deeper purpose behind his content. He discusses the significance of community connection and the role of personal growth in his creative process. This conversation dives into the challenges of authenticity and the journey of finding one's voice while navigating the complexities of mental health and self-acceptance.

Takeaways:

• Letting go of past anxieties and future worries allows for creativity to flourish.
• The journey of self-discovery often involves embracing vulnerability and being present.
• Finding your unique style and flow can lead to personal and creative growth.
• Forgiveness of oneself and others is crucial for healing and moving forward.
• Engaging in community and personal connections can enhance mental well-being and happiness.
• Prioritizing mental health involves taking breaks and managing expectations in the creative process.

Check out Coach Chippy on TikTok and YouTube and connect with Kendra on Instagram.