Shows
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery Coach#438 Passion In A Physical Form with Paloma Soledad - The Woman Behind Luxcare ClothingIn this episode, Laura speaks with three-time stage-four cancer survivor Paloma Soledad, the creator of Luxcare Clothing, chemical-free, Sun-safe, adaptive, and sustainably made pieces designed for women in cancer treatment and recovery. Paloma shares her story of immunotherapy, lymphedema, and living in a post-cancer body, and how her background in fashion led her to create clothing that honors both comfort and beauty. Topics include: • How cancer inspired her slow-fashion brand • The hidden chemicals in fabrics and why they matter for survivors • UPF 50+ fabrics and sun safety during treatment • The emotional...
2025-11-2145 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachLife After Breast Cancer - The Power of Living On Purpose Every DayIn this episode, Laura explores a question that often brings women more confusion than clarity: "What is my purpose?" Drawing from her own reflections and from coaching breast cancer survivors, she reframes the conversation around a far more supportive question: "Am I living on purpose?" You'll hear how intentional living supports cognitive health, stress resilience, emotional wellbeing, and metabolic healing after breast cancer. Laura breaks down the psychology and neuroscience behind purposeful living, explains why so many of us resist it, and shares simple, doable ways to build intention into your daily life. A perfect...
2025-11-1428 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery Coach#436 Breast Cancer Recovery and The Block of FamiliarityWhy do we keep holding on to things that don't serve us—relationships, habits, or clutter that drains our energy? In this episode, Laura Lummer explores how the brain's desire for safety keeps us clinging to what's familiar, even when it hurts us. You'll hear about two fascinating studies on the psychology of familiarity and habit formation, and learn how awareness, curiosity, and small acts of release can help you create space for what's truly meant for you. 💬 "Comfort feels safe, even when it's not healthy. But awareness is what frees you." Join Laura...
2025-11-0719 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachFinding Balance and Flow in the Middle of The Good and The BadWhen you've lived through breast cancer, life often feels like a mix of opposites — gratitude and fear, healing and side effects, joy and grief. In this episode, Laura shares what it means to hold space for both the good and the hard, and how allowing energy to flow supports both emotional and physical healing. She explores the science of psycho-neuro-immunology, the lymphatic system, and fascia, and connects it to traditional healing wisdom about flow and stagnation. Learn how to create physiological safety, release stored emotions, and find balance in the space between the light and th...
2025-10-3125 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachBreaking The Protective Barrier - The Healing Power of Radical TransparencyWhen we try to protect others from our pain, we often end up isolating ourselves. In this episode, Laura Lummer, The Breast Cancer Recovery Coach, shares her concept of the protective barrier — the invisible wall that forms when we hold our emotions in and pretend everything is "normal." Through the lens of radical transparency and supported by research on emotional expression, Laura explains how honest communication reduces stress, strengthens immunity, and builds trust with our champions — the people who love and support us through it all. Listen and learn how vulnerability can be one of the...
2025-10-2425 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachNutrition Myth-Busting After Breast Cancer - What You Need to KnowIn this episode of The Breast Cancer Recovery Coach, we'll dismantle three of the most common—and misleading—nutrition myths that many women encounter after a breast cancer diagnosis. Whether you're in active treatment or navigating life post-cancer, this conversation offers clarity, compassion, and practical advice rooted in science, not fear. You'll learn: Why not all carbohydrates are harmful and how whole-food carbs can actually support healing The truth about plant vs. animal foods and how to identify clean, high-quality animal proteins How "organic" and "plant-based" labels can mislead your food choices—and wh...
2025-06-1332 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachSmart Food Swaps For Breast Cancer Recovery - The AA Nutrition PlanThis episode is such an exciting one, and honestly, it might just change the way you think about what you eat—especially if you've ever felt confused or overwhelmed about what's "safe" or supportive after a breast cancer diagnosis. I'm talking about two powerful cellular processes that are important for us to understand: autophagy and angiogenesis. These are what researchers call hallmarks of cancer—but they're also incredible opportunities for healing. And the best part? You don't need to fast for days or eat perfectly to support them. You just need to make some...
2025-06-0620 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachVibration Plates For Breast Cancer Recovery - Muscle Bone and Bowel Benefits You Should Know AboutIf you've ever looked at a wellness gadget and thought, "Is this really going to help me?"—you're not alone. In this episode of The Breast Cancer Recovery Coach Podcast, we explore the science behind a popular wellness tool: vibration plates, also known as whole-body vibration therapy (WBV). Whether you're in recovery from breast cancer, managing post-treatment fatigue, experiencing bone loss, or dealing with sluggish digestion, you'll discover how this gentle, low-impact tool could support your healing journey. We'll dive into clinical research, explain how vibration plates work, and walk through the many potential benefits—from...
2025-05-3018 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachHow to Embrace Resistance and Move Through Life's Toughest MomentsIn this episode of Better Than Before Breast Cancer, we're talking about the concept of resistance — a natural, human response to discomfort, fear, and change. Resistance can show up in many forms, whether you're facing a difficult decision, trying to adopt new habits, or navigating life after cancer treatment. But here's the good news: resistance isn't something to fight. It's a powerful signal that you're on the verge of growth. Let's talk about: -Why does resistance come up -How can it affect your ability to move forward -How to work with re...
2025-05-1635 min
Now What?Creating a Life You Love After Cancer with Laura LummerWhat if healing from cancer wasn’t just about treatments and prescriptions—but about reclaiming your voice, your time, and your joy? In this powerful episode, I sit down with breast cancer recovery coach Laura Lummer, who shares her deeply personal journey of surviving not one, but two breast cancer diagnoses—including stage 4 metastatic cancer. Laura opens up about the life-altering mindset shifts that changed her approach to healing, how her work with Dr. Nasha Winters transformed her understanding of the body, and why self-compassion is the missing piece for so many women in recovery. Whether you’re navigating survivor...
2025-05-121h 08
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachHow Breast Cancer Treatments Disrupt Your Digestion And What to Do About It? In this episode of Better Than Before Breast Cancer™, we're talking about a common and little-talked-about side effect of breast cancer treatment and day-to-day living: digestive changes. If you've experienced bloating, reflux, fatigue, or that uncomfortable feeling of fullness after eating, this episode is for you. You'll learn why hypochlorhydria (low stomach acid) is often misdiagnosed as high stomach acid, how breast cancer treatments like chemotherapy, radiation, and hormonal therapy contribute to poor digestion, and why treating symptoms with acid-blocking medications might be doing more harm than good. Most importantly, we'll cover simple, nurturing steps — like...
2025-05-0923 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachBreast Cancer and Your Body - Who's Betraying Whom?Do you think it's normal to feel discomfort in your body? Or do you recognize discomfort as your body's attempt to communicate with you? In this thought-provoking episode, I challenge the idea that our bodies betray us. We'll talk about how we've been conditioned to ignore discomfort, push through pain, and normalize symptoms like bloating, fatigue, inflammation, and poor sleep—until something more serious forces us to listen. I'll share my personal experiences and real-life stories—including the heartbreaking loss of my brother to a curable cancer—to illustrate why tuning into y...
2025-04-2522 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachThe Surprising Truth About Behavior Change After Breast CancerIn this episode of Better Than Before Breast Cancer, Laura Lummer dives into the real—and often overlooked—challenges of making and maintaining lifestyle changes after a breast cancer diagnosis. Starting with a powerful quote from Lao Tzu, "If you do not change direction, you may end up where you are heading," Laura reflects on the emotional weight, conditioned beliefs, and survival instincts that make behavior change both essential and incredibly difficult. Whether you've felt stuck in old habits or overwhelmed by the pressure to be "perfectly healthy," this episode offers a refreshing and compassionate perspective. Laura shar...
2025-04-1128 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachSync Your Meals, Heal Your Body - Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern ScienceIn this eye-opening episode of the Better Than Before Breast Cancer Podcast, host Laura Lummer dives into the powerful connection between your body's natural rhythms and the timing of your meals. Have you ever noticed how aligned you feel when you live in sync with nature's cycles? Drawing from Ayurveda—an ancient system of medicine from India—and contemporary scientific research, Laura reveals how understanding your body's internal clock, or circadian rhythm, can significantly enhance your health, especially after breast cancer. What You'll Discover in This Episode: A gentle introduction to Ayurveda and how this...
2025-03-2818 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachHolding Happiness Hostage After Breast CancerHave you ever caught yourself waiting for permission to be happy? Saying things like, "I'll relax after this stressful phase is over," or "I'll treat myself once I hit that goal"? You're not alone—so many of us delay joy, saving it like a precious prize to be earned later. In this heartfelt episode, Laura invites you to explore the deeply-rooted mindset of treating happiness as something conditional rather than essential. She shares relatable examples—waiting for the stressful season at work to pass before taking a restful weekend, holding off on self-care until you reach your idea...
2025-03-2123 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachMagnesium & Breast Cancer Recovery - The Mineral You Can't IgnoreIn this episode of Better Than Before Breast Cancer, we're talking about the crucial role of magnesium in breast cancer recovery, metabolic health, and overall well-being What You'll Learn in This Episode:✅ Why magnesium is vital for breast cancer survivors and how it supports healing✅ How chemotherapy, aromatase inhibitors, and stress can deplete magnesium levels✅ The best types of magnesium supplements (and which one is right for you!)✅ How to get enough magnesium through diet with whole, nutrient-dense foods✅ Signs of magnesium deficiency and how to test your levels✅ How magnesium impacts inflammation, bone density, and hormone balance...
2025-03-0724 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachHow to Stay Consistent When Life Gets in The WayWe all start the year with big goals and fresh motivation—but what happens when life gets in the way? Whether it's getting sick, traveling, or just falling into old habits, it's easy to feel like you've lost momentum. But here's the truth: Consistency matters more than perfection. In this episode of Better Than Before Breast Cancer, I'm sharing how to stay on track even when setbacks happen. You'll learn why self-compassion is the key to long-term success, why small, sustainable steps always win, and how to reframe negative thoughts that stop you from moving forward. ...
2025-02-1426 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachDisappointment Detox - How to Stop Setting Yourself Up to SufferIn this episode of Better Than Before Breast Cancer, we're talking about the emotional landscape of disappointment. We'll explore how unrealistic expectations, emotional attachment to outcomes, and projecting our own beliefs onto others can set us up for unnecessary suffering. Laura shares actionable strategies to reframe disappointment, embrace curiosity, and use setbacks as stepping stones to growth and self-awareness. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why disappointment stems from unmet expectations and how to identify them. How radical acceptance and mindfulness can help you navigate disappointment. The difference between focusing...
2025-01-3137 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachBreast Cancer and How Your Relationship with Yourself Sets the Stage for Health HealingIn this episode of Better Than Before Breast Cancer, we'll talk about the often-overlooked relationship we have with ourselves. Inspired by the upcoming season of love, let's explore how this foundational connection influences our health, healing, and overall well-being. From navigating the emotional weight of caregiving to reclaiming your power through self-compassion, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable steps to help you nurture the most important relationship of all—your relationship with yourself. What You'll Learn in This Episode: How to reframe your perspective on self-care and see it as...
2025-01-2426 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachBreast Cancer and The Benefit of A Future FocusIn this episode we're going deep into the power of adopting a "future-focused" mindset. Listen in and learn how to balance living in the present moment with envisioning the version of yourself you want to become. I'll share actionable strategies for overcoming self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and conflict avoidance, helping you create a life that's better than before breast cancer™. Key Takeaways: Future You Matters: Why stepping into the future version of yourself can transform your mindset and inspire positive changes. Reframing Conflict: Techniques to address difficult conversations and self-expression without fear. Action in...
2025-01-1030 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachThe Art of Allowing - A New Perspective for a Better Life After Breast CancerIn this powerful New Year's episode, I'll share my personal journey from a "fighting" mindset to embracing a healing mentality after breast cancer. We'll talk about how resistance can block your path to wellness and how allowing yourself to heal can create profound positive changes. Key Points: The difference between fighting disease and allowing healing How resistance impacts our physical and emotional wellbeing Research from the Heart Math Institute on stress hormones and healing The role of positive emotions in recovery and healing Moving from New Year's resolutions to intentional allowing Understanding the subtle w...
2025-01-0330 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachThe Truth About Ketosis After Breast Cancer: Beyond Weight LossEpisode Overview In this final episode of 2024, I break down the science and benefits of ketosis for breast cancer survivors. I'll tell you why metabolic health matters and how achieving a state of ketosis can support recovery and overall wellbeing. Key Topics Covered What ketosis really is (beyond just weight loss) The difference between ketosis and ketogenic diet How ketosis specifically benefits breast cancer survivors Practical ways to achieve and maintain ketosis Common challenges and how to overcome them Tools for monitoring ketosis and blood glucose Why Ketosis Matters...
2024-12-2741 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachHoliday Boundaries for Breast Cancer Survivors - The Science of Emotional PowerLately holiday gatherings that can feel like emotional minefields have been weighing heavy with a lot of my clients. Listen, I get it - there's Aunt Martha asking why you're not wearing a wig, your well-meaning mom hovering over every bite you take, and maybe those relatives who just can't stop giving their "expert" medical advice. We need to talk about this! Not just the surface stuff, but really dive into what's happening in our brains during these moments and why we react the way we do. In this episode, I'm sharing everything...
2024-12-2026 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachThe Power of Intentional Living - How to Create a Life You Love After Breast CancerJoin Laura for a special vault episode featuring an authentic coaching conversation about intentional living, effective time management, and creating a life you love after breast cancer. KEY TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 - Introduction and episode overview 10:29 - Understanding the relationship between follow-through and self-worth 26:28 - The critical mindset shift about time management 35:07 - Introduction to the "Monday Hour One" method 41:00 - Breaking down the emotional barriers to time management 52:00 - Transforming our relationship with boundaries 59:55 - Workshop announcement and closing thoughts ...
2024-12-131h 02
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachHow to Create Internal Peace When Life Feels StressfulIn this episode of the Breast Cancer Recovery Coach Podcast, we're talking about a powerful tool in your healing journey and in your day to day life: creating inner peace. Life can be overwhelming, with fears of recurrence, daily stressors, and the challenge of protecting your mental and emotional well-being. In this episode, you'll discover how cultivating inner calm isn't just about feeling good in the moment; it's about supporting your body's healing and resilience for the long haul. Join me as we explore practical ways to bring peace into your life, from setting boundaries...
2024-11-0833 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachHow The Time Change Impacts Your Body and How to Sleep BetterIn this episode of the Better Than Before Breast Cancer podcast, we're talking about how seasonal time changes disrupt our energy and what you can do to restore your body's natural rhythm. We're not just talking about losing an hour of sleep; this change can throw off our internal clocks, impacting energy, focus, and even our mood. I'll guide you through understanding why this happens—explaining the fascinating roles of melatonin, cortisol, and other biological signals that shape your sleep-wake cycle. But it doesn't stop there. You'll discover simple, practical ways to align you...
2024-11-0125 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachStop Gaslighting Yourself to Start Creating a Life You Love After Breast CancerIn this episode of The Breast Cancer Recovery Coach Podcast, we're diving into a topic that many of us don't even realize we're dealing with—self-gaslighting. Now, you've probably heard of gaslighting in the context of relationships, but what about when we do it to ourselves? Yep, that's right! Sometimes we're our own worst critics, especially when it comes to making important changes in our health, relationships, and work-life after breast cancer. I'll walk you through how self-gaslighting can show up in your life—like when you convince yourself that your healthy food choi...
2024-10-2528 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachTransformation Through the Metabolic Approach to Health with Anqoinette Crowder-JonesIn this episode of Better Than Before Breast Cancer, I sit down with Anqoinette Crowder-Jones, a woman whose inspiring journey through breast cancer and healing has transformed her approach to life and health. We explore her story, from being diagnosed with cancer at a young age while raising a young child to discover the power of the metabolic approach to health. Anqoinette shares her struggles with conventional treatments, her transition from a plant-based diet to a low-carb, ketogenic lifestyle, and the deep emotional work required to support healing. What's most compelling is how...
2024-10-181h 05
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachFour Years Strong Thriving Beyond a Stage Four Cancer DiagnosisIn this episode, I reflect on a deeply meaningful milestone—four years since my stage four breast cancer diagnosis. It's an emotional and powerful moment, not just because of the survival but because of the transformation that came with it. I share how, at one point, I thought my life was over, only to decide that I wasn't ready to give up. That decision changed everything. I dive into the incredible importance of embracing a metabolic approach to health, not just for cancer management but for overall well-being. You'll hear about my experience on a na...
2024-10-1120 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachHow Cancer Treatments Affect Your Nutrients And What You Can Do About ItIn this week's episode, we're talking about something that's often overlooked but can have a huge impact on your recovery—nutrient deficiencies caused by breast cancer treatments. Yep, you heard that right! The very treatments that are helping you heal could also be depleting your body of essential nutrients, and you might not even know it. If you've been feeling a little more fatigued than usual, dealing with muscle cramps, or noticing changes in your skin, hair, or even your mood, this episode is for you. We'll be exploring what drug-induced nutrient deficiencies ar...
2024-10-0428 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachDeciding to Do The Work to Transform Your Health and Your LifeIn this episode of the Better Than Before Breast Cancer podcast, I invite you to join me in challenging the habits and beliefs that may be holding you back from living the life you truly want. I'll share my personal experience of embracing change and making intentional choices that led me to a more fulfilling and balanced life after breast cancer. We'll explore the power of connection, the importance of slowing down, and the courage it takes to break free from the routines and societal pressures that no longer serve you. As you...
2024-09-2032 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachThe Role of Aromatase Inhibitors After Breast CancerIn today's episode we're diving into a question I hear all the time: "Why do I need to take aromatase inhibitors if I'm post-menopausal? Isn't my body done making estrogen?" If you've wondered the same thing, you're not alone! We'll explore how your body still produces small amounts of estrogen even after menopause, and why this matters for breast cancer survivors. I'll explain where post-menopausal estrogen comes from—hint: it's not just your ovaries—and how lifestyle factors can support your body's hormone balance. You'll also hear why aromatase inhibitors play an important role in prev...
2024-09-1317 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachThe Benefits of Cryotherapy After Breast CancerIn today's episode, I'm diving into something that may surprise you—cryotherapy! If you've ever wondered what stepping into a chamber of freezing cold air could do for your health, this episode is for you. Trust me, it's not just for athletes or Instagram influencers. We're talking about real benefits for metabolic health, potential cancer prevention, and even mental health! Have you heard that cold exposure can burn fat and boost your metabolism? What about reducing inflammation, which is so important for us as breast cancer survivors? I'll be breaking down th...
2024-09-0626 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachEmbracing The Slow Life After Breast CancerIn this episode, I share my experience at a healing retreat in the Maldives—a place where the beauty of nature and the rhythm of the ocean reminded me of the profound power of slowing down. I invite you to join me as I explore the importance of living a slow life, connecting deeply with nature, and finding a community of like-minded individuals who can support and inspire your healing journey. For us, as breast cancer survivors, the need to listen to our bodies and honor what they truly need is more vital than ever....
2024-08-2325 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachThe Power of Acceptance - Supporting Others Without Losing YourselfAfter a diagnosis of breast cancer, we face many challenges that test our strength and resilience including how we can and how we want to show up for others. It's natural to feel the urge to fix things, whether it's our own circumstances or the lives of our loved ones. However, this episode sheds light on the deeper reasons behind this impulse and offers insights into why we feel compelled to relieve other people's suffering even when we have no power to do so and the mental burden undermines our health. We discuss...
2024-08-1615 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachHistamine Management - Key Insights for Breast Cancer SurvivorsIn this episode, we dive deep into the world of histamines—what they are, how they affect our bodies, and why it's crucial for breast cancer survivors to be aware of them. For those with histamine intolerance or sensitivity, these compounds can, lead to symptoms like headaches, digestive issues, skin reactions, and more. Understanding this balance is key, especially for breast cancer survivors who might experience heightened sensitivity due to treatments and hormonal changes. We touch on low histamine diets, foods that support histamine breakdown, and the intricate relationship between histamines and estrogen. Ch...
2024-08-1316 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachCooking up Health - Metabolic Benefits of Home Cooking After Breast CancerIn this episode, we're diving into the kitchen to explore how home cooking can play a crucial role in your journey to recovery and maintaining your metabolic health. I know firsthand how overwhelming it can be to navigate the path to wellness after a breast cancer diagnosis. One of the most powerful steps you can take is reclaiming your kitchen and embracing the art of cooking wholesome, nutritious meals at home. Home cooking gives you complete control over what goes into your body. It allows you to choose fresh, nutrient-dense ingredients that can...
2024-08-0926 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachUnderstanding Iron and Calcium After Breast CancerToday, we're unraveling the complex roles of two essential minerals—iron and calcium—in our health and their unique implications for breast cancer survivors. Iron and calcium are critical for numerous bodily functions. Iron is essential for producing hemoglobin, which transports oxygen in our blood, while calcium is vital for bone health, muscle function, and nerve signaling. In this episode, I'll explore how these minerals support our overall well-being and why maintaining adequate levels is crucial, especially during recovery. Iron is a double-edged sword. While it is necessary for energy production and immune func...
2024-08-0622 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachSelf-Sabotage Isn't Always About WillpowerToday, we dive deep into a topic that many of us struggle with—self-sabotage. Whether it's the fear of failure or success, battling low self-worth, or the relentless pursuit of perfection, these hurdles can block our path to a healthier lifestyle. But don't worry, we're here to tackle them together! This episode explores why self-sabotage happens and, more importantly, how to overcome it. We'll look at the psychological and emotional roots of self-sabotage and offer practical strategies to break free from these self-imposed barriers. This episode is packed with insights and actionable advice to help yo...
2024-08-0225 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachHot Flashes, Stress, and Sleepless Nights - Could Blood Sugar be the Problem?How many nights have you experienced poor sleep and thought it was due to hot flashes or the need to pee? Those things may have played a role, but if you look back to earlier in the day, you could uncover an underlying cause of the hot flashes that wake you up and make you realize you need to pee. Have you considered the power of what you eat and how you respond to stressors as a contributing factor to hot flashes? In this episode, I'll explain how stress and blood sugar impact...
2024-07-3023 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachBeyond A Breast Cancer Diagnosis - Accepting Your Body and The Test ResultsToday, I want to have a heart-to-heart conversation about something that weighs heavily on many of our minds: the challenge of deciding whether or not to undergo diagnostic tests for breast cancer. These decisions are never easy, and I understand the fear and anxiety that come with them. In this episode, we dive deep into the dilemma of balancing the potential benefits and harmful side effects of diagnostic tests. It's a tough spot to be in—on one hand, we want to stay vigilant and catch any issues early, but on the other, we're wary of the po...
2024-07-2618 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachCaring For Your "Second Heart" After Breast CancerIn this episode, we explore the fascinating concept of the "second heart," a nickname for the soleus muscle in the calf. Known for its importance in maintaining cardiovascular health, the soleus muscle is a powerful pump during activities like walking, running, and standing, aiding venous return and preventing conditions such as varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Studies highlight the soleus muscle's critical function in enhancing heart function, improving cardiac output and cognitive performance, particularly in older adults, by maintaining adequate blood flow to the brain. For breast cancer survivors, maintaining good...
2024-07-1622 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachFrom Pleaser to Protector - Standing up for Yourself After Breast CancerOn this day, the 13 anniversary of my first breast cancer diagnosis, I am reflecting on all the lessons I've learned about caring for myself and prioritizing my healing. I can't help but think about how often I've witnessed myself and my clients feel compelled to please others at the expense of their well-being. This tendency can lead to mistreatment or overextending yourself, even hindering your recovery and overall quality of life. The central message of this podcast is clear: true kindness towards oneself isn't solely about accommodating others at all costs, but rather about asserting b...
2024-07-1223 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachOrgan Meat - How This Nutrient Dense Food Can Support Your Health - The Benefits Risks and OptionsToday, we're diving into a topic that's been both celebrated and controversial: organ meats and organ meat supplements. As breast cancer survivors, navigating our nutritional choices is crucial, and understanding the potential benefits and risks of organ meats can help us make informed decisions. We discuss how these nutrients can be especially beneficial for those recovering from breast cancer, aiding in energy restoration, immune support, and overall vitality. While the benefits are significant, being aware of the risks is important. For those who might find the idea of consuming organ meats...
2024-07-0929 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachNavigating Conflicting Thoughts and Wellness Choices After Breast CancerThis episode marks a significant milestone—celebrating 13 years since I discovered a lump in my breast that resulted in a cancer diagnosis. The journey has been both challenging and enlightening, marked by two major hurdles that I had to overcome: navigating conflicting thoughts and pushing the boundaries of wellness. Over the years, I have grappled with the internal struggle of holding onto conflicting thoughts. On one hand, I firmly believe in my ability to heal and improve my health through dedicated effort and lifestyle changes. On the other hand, the pervasive thought that ca...
2024-07-0522 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachListening to Your Body After Breast Cancer - Finding Your Unique Path to RecoveryIn this episode, we explore the transformative journey of healing after breast cancer by allowing ourselves the space to think differently, connect deeply with our bodies, and understand our unique needs. Healing is about physical recovery and aligning our lives with our inner selves, rather than forcing our bodies to meet predetermined expectations. Breast cancer survivors often find themselves overwhelmed by societal pressures and rigid recovery timelines. These external expectations can lead to frustration and failure when our bodies do not conform to these standards. In this podcast, we delve into the importance of breaking...
2024-06-2820 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachWhy Breast Cancer Survivors Struggle to Seek Help - The Zero Sum TrapIn this episode, we're diving into a topic that I know many of you have encountered but might not have a name for zero-sum thinking. This is the belief that if you take something for yourself, you're taking it away from someone else. And let me tell you, it's a sneaky little mindset that can really hold us back, especially when we're navigating the rocky waters of breast cancer recovery. In this episode, I break down what zero-sum thinking is and why it's such a common roadblock for breast cancer survivors. Many of u...
2024-06-2127 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachBoosting Bone Density and Muscle Strength After Breast CancerAfter breast cancer treatment, maintaining strong bones becomes critically important. Treatments can take a toll on your skeletal system, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Understanding why bone health is vital and how to protect it is key to your overall well-being. In this episode, we'll highlight the crucial role that muscle strength plays in maintaining bone health. Our bones and muscles are intricately connected; when we build muscle, we also promote stronger bones. Resistance training isn't just about getting fit – it's about building a foundation that supports your entire body, including your bones. I...
2024-06-1834 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachBuilding Confidence After Breast Cancer by Learning to Trust YourselfA breast cancer diagnosis can knock the wind out of your confidence. It's impossible to know how this type of diagnosis will impact you mentally and emotionally until you're in it. As you try to figure out what you need, what you want, and what makes sense, other people's thoughts and opinions can weigh heavily on your choices for your health and life. In this episode, I'll share something that happened to me recently and brought my mind back to how often I see women struggle with the ability to believe and trust...
2024-06-1419 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachWhat Breast Cancer Survivors Need to Know About Food Hype and BioindividualityAntinutrients and extreme diets get a lot of air on talk shows and social media, but do they stand up to the test of supporting a healthy body? Maybe? In this episode, I'll give you both sides of the story when it comes to food compounds that many recommend avoiding. More importantly, I'll offer you a framework to consider when you think about how to nourish your unique body for your life stage and the goals you want to achieve. Listen now and take some of the fear out of food...
2024-06-0430 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachThe Truth Behind Nutrition Labels and Marketing - Are All Eggs Created Equal?Breast cancer and food confusion are real! We want to be healthy, eat good food, reduce our toxic burden, and be mindful of our budget. But how do you know what food labels are telling you about the food you're thinking of buying? What do all of these labels mean and what's best for you? In this episode, we'll dig into the truth behind labels when it comes to choosing eggs. According to Statista.com, in 2023 the estimated consumption of eggs in the U.S. was 281.3 eggs per person.
2024-05-2835 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachUsing Breast Cancer, Grief, and Fear to Inspire a Better LifeBreast cancer and life can have a lot of grief, loss, and fear involved, and we can either use those emotions to create even more suffering, or we can choose to use them in ways that inspire us to live even better lives. Recently the anniversary date of the loss of my brother came around and it got me to thinking about all the ways that loss impacted my life. In this episode, I'll share all the ways that I turned that grief into growth. It certainly wasn't easy and it took time...
2024-05-2423 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachBreast Cancer and Surya Brasil Henna - A Non-Toxic Choice for Hair ColorIs Breast cancer just bad luck? Here's what Breast Cancer UK had to say about that based on a 2015 study published in the Journal of Nature: "This study confirms what Breast Cancer UK has recognized, that environmental factors such as exposure to toxic chemicals are also key risk factors for certain cancers. It should form part of any cancer prevention strategy." Additionally, a Finnish Study published in 2015 found that "…the odds of breast cancer increased by 23% among women who used hair dyes compared to those who did not. In women born before 1950, an inc...
2024-05-2151 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachGrounding to Heal - It's Not a Hippie ThingWhat does it mean to you to feel grounded? The Merriam-Webster dictionary says it's to be mentally and emotionally stable. In Ayurveda, it means being connected with the Earth's energy. However you define it, western science is proving that the practice of grounding, or physically touching the earth may have some remarkable benefits that range from better sleep to wound healing. In this episode, I'll share what it means to practice grounding and some of the evidence that points to why you should be incorporating this free, easy, and enjoyable practice...
2024-05-1419 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachThe First Steps to Take After a Breast Cancer DiagnosisA diagnosis of breast cancer, whether it's the first one or a recurrence is mind-numbingly frightening. If it's the first time you've heard the words, "You have cancer." It's not only frightening but it sends you into a world of language, treatments, and experiences that you have no idea how to understand or manage. In this episode, I'll clear up some of the fear and confusion around how to handle a new diagnosis. This isn't about treatments, drugs, or supplements, but the mindset shifts that are so important to care for...
2024-05-1044 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachYou Are What You Eat - Breast Cancer and Misleading Nutrition MessagesA Breast Cancer diagnosis can make the world of nutrition even more confusing and overwhelming than it was before. Add a bunch of Netflix documentaries to that and you can be left in total fear of food. Should you be a vegan? Will meat make you sick? Is everyone selling a program? In this episode I'll shed some light on a new popular nutrition documentary. We'll bust through some biases and peel away some of the fear tactics to leave you with a healthy balanced approach to...
2024-05-0749 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachBreaking Through Limits After Breast CancerIn my life, it's hard to think of a more powerless experience (other than childhood) than my first diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. That in itself is traumatic. But when added to all the powerless and limiting thoughts that you are conditioned to think throughout your life, you can be left feeling like the life you dream about is an impossibility. So, I created this episode to let you know that isn't true. When you can bring awareness to three ways of thinking that keep you stuck and convinced that...
2024-05-0331 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachA Simple Practice to Improve Your Skin and CirculationThere are so many simple, inexpensive ways to care for your body and support your health terrain. This simple practice, rooted in Ayurvedic medicine, offers a host of potential benefits, from exfoliating dead skin cells to enhancing the body's detoxification process through stimulation of the lymphatic system. Join me as we explain how to choose the right brush, the best techniques for effective brushing, and the direction to brush to maximize health benefits. We'll also discuss how incorporating dry brushing into your daily routine can improve skin texture, boost circulation, and even potentially...
2024-04-3031 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachHolding Space for Anger After Breast CancerIn this podcast episode, we delve into the essential role of acknowledging and expressing anger, and the broader spectrum of our emotions, in maintaining mental and physical health. Anger is a natural and healthy emotion when approached constructively. By allowing ourselves to feel and express anger, we open the door to understanding our needs and setting necessary boundaries. This process is critical for personal growth and relationships. You'll hear some expert insights explaining how repressing emotions, particularly anger, can lead to adverse effects. Suppressing these feelings doesn't eliminate them; instead, they can surface...
2024-04-2628 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachIs Berberine Nature's Ozempic?In 2023, the dietary supplements market was valued at approximately $167.5 billion to $177.5 billion. So it is no surprise when we see headlines touting the latest and greatest new supplement, that its benefits can be overstated and lots of people get caught up in the craze. Recently, berberine has been getting a lot of social media attention, and since this is a supplement that I'm very familiar with and that I personally use, I thought I'd dig deeper into the science and share it with you. In this Tuesday Terrain Talk, I'll tell you everything...
2024-04-2321 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachNavigating Life Beyond Breast Cancer - How to Embrace Life's UncertaintiesDoes it feel like nothing is going your way? Do you hear yourself saying you take two steps forward and one step back? Do you feel like you're not gaining momentum and as a result, you beat yourself up? If any of those or anything like that resonates with you, this is an episode you want to listen to. The fact is, life is always going off the rails so why don't we anticipate that to begin with? What if you could accept the fact that life is never...
2024-04-1933 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachCreating A Life That's Better Than Before Breast Cancer With Intentional JoyA diagnosis of breast cancer can change things for a long time after treatment has ended. In fact, many life situations can derail you, pile on top of each other and one day you find yourself realizing that there's very little joy, excitement, or fun in your life anymore. That's not a good feeling, but fortunately, there's a lot you can do about it. Creating time for fun and joy must be intentional. Just like most other things, if it isn't on the calendar, it isn't going to happen. ...
2024-04-1129 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachBreast Cancer, Grains and Genetics - Can Carbs be Healthy?A breast cancer diagnosis is a crisis that often drives us to rethink our lifestyle and nutrition. But how do you know which foods are the right foods for you? In this episode, I'll give you some insights on how genetics can give you some direction on what foods are the best ones for your body. We'll also talk about symptoms you can check for if you don't have a genetic report and what carbohydrates are best for supporting optimal health. Referred to in this episode: Work w...
2024-04-0930 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachDr. Katie Deming - The Conscious OncologistIn this episode, I'm thrilled to introduce you to the Conscious Oncologist, Dr. Katie Deming. This brilliant, intuitive former radiation oncologist, shares the story that changed her perspective on healing. In this episode we'll talk about: -The framework that oncologist operate in and how that limits their ability to support healing -The importance of being real about the work involved in supporting your health -How to expect, process and move forward with fear -How to support yourself when dealing with other people's perspectives And so...
2024-04-0557 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachCaring For Your Health After Breast Cancer Without Overwhelm During or after a breast cancer diagnosis, you have a lot on your mind. There's life and then there's life before and after breast cancer. So, how do you rearrange your life to take better care of yourself when the mere thought of it overwhelms you? In this episode, I will give you some help with that. In my practice, one of the things I do is help my clients let go of thoughts and practices that overwhelm them. Yep, it's not the things that are overwhelming friend, it's...
2024-04-0228 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachThe Energy of Healing and Breast Cancer - A Deep Dive Into ConnectionBetween managing breast cancer, families, work, doctor appointments, household needs, social engagements, and all the other obligations that come with life, when do you have time to check in with yourself? What does your energy feel like? What is happening with the energy in your body? How does the energy of food, water, thoughts, emotions, and therapies affect you? Supporting your body's ability to heal and be well goes deep into the practice of knowing yourself. In this episode, I'll share some insights on the role energy plays in...
2024-03-2226 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachThe Fat Switch, Breast Cancer and Fructose - Not All Calories Are Created EqualWhen it comes to choosing the right foods after breast cancer, there are lots of options. In fact, there are so many options that it can be overwhelming and confusing to decide what's best for you. But on the other side of that coin is the fact that there are certain things you should not eat. These are highly processed foods that have ingredients in them that you won't find in nature and that not only don't support your health but also change the way your body uses the energy from food, and...
2024-03-2033 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachBreast Cancer and Standard of Care - Managing Expectations to Support Treatment and Emotional HealthStepping into the medical system after a breast cancer diagnosis is like a baby taking its first breath outside the womb. It's a shocking, unfamiliar environment that most of us have no idea what we'll be expected to navigate. Yet we also expect that our oncologist will take care of everything we need. In my own breast cancer experience I found that this expectation led to a tremendous amount of anger and frustration. At times I thought I just got stuck with a bad doctor. Then I started coaching other women and h...
2024-03-2030 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachBreast Cancer and the Shame Cycle - How Beating Yourself Up Impacts Your HealthIn today's episode, we're talking about a topic that touches many of us but often stays hidden in the shadows: shame. Shame is this tricky little beast that can sneak up on us, especially when we're navigating the challenging waters of breast cancer recovery. It's more than just a fleeting feeling; it can actually have some serious effects on both our mental and physical health. It can crank up our stress and anxiety levels, making us feel like we're constantly walking on eggshells. Worse, it can lead us down the path to depression, chi...
2024-03-0938 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachSimplifying Seed Oils and Fatty Acids After Breast CancerFor us breast cancer survivors, the balance of essential fatty acids is not just a minor detail. In this episode, we'll dive into the role of healthy fats, particularly polyunsaturated fats, in supporting our well-being Research suggests that a diet rich in omega-3s and balanced in omega-6s could play a role in reducing inflammation and possibly impacting breast cancer outcomes. It's about creating an environment in our bodies that supports healing and health, not just for today, but for all our tomorrows. Incorporating these healthy fats into our diets isn't just...
2024-03-0636 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachHow Imperfect Actions After Breast Cancer Can Lead to Amazing Outcomes In 2011 when I heard the words, "You have breast cancer." It was scary, I was confused, overwhelmed, and ignorant of all the things involved in the journey that was to come. In 2020 when I heard the words, "You have cancer throughout your body." I thought my life was over. But, after I recovered from the shock I made a decision to figure out how other people healed from cancer and how I could do it too. I've been on this path for nearly three and a half years now. There's been a lot of t...
2024-03-0121 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachBreast Cancer and Your Hardwired Brain - Increase Your Capacity for Joy How can someone expect to have the ability to deal with and manage a breast cancer diagnosis when they never thought this would happen in their life? Maybe they don't. But we do have the capacity to learn these skills. In this episode we'll talk about the challenge of overcoming how your brain is hardwired to freak out, to be fearful, and to think in worst-case scenarios. You may think you're stuck with all of these negative emotions because that's just how your brain works, but that's not the case. We...
2024-02-1628 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachBreast Cancer and the Beauty of BiodiversityThe diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can lead to a powerful disconnect from the body. Many survivors feel betrayed by their own bodies and often that distance piles onto existing body image issues. Sadly, when we lose connection with our bodies, there's no way we can care for them in the ways necessary to support healing. We lose sight of the magical interplay of our biology and how every part of our system has an important role and how strong and vital our connection to nature is. Over recent decades...
2024-02-1439 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachBreast Cancer, Stress and Trauma - It Didn't Start With YouToday, we're diving into a fascinating topic: how generational trauma affects our epigenetics, and the profound impact stress has on our bodies. Generational trauma, a term that's gaining more recognition, refers to the emotional and psychological impacts of traumatic experiences that are not just lived by one generation but are passed down through the next. This isn't merely psychological; it's embedded in our very biology, in our epigenetics. Epigenetics is the study of how our behaviors and environment can cause changes that affect the way our genes work. Interestingly, these changes do not alter our...
2024-02-0639 min
Not Today CancerHow to Choose Love & Joy After a Cancer Diagnosis With Laura LummerIn this episode, we talk a lot about the crucial inner work after a diagnosis with Laura Lummer. Discussed in this episode: Thriving through a stage 4 diagnosis The hard stuff is the inner work: What holding on to resentment and anger does to your body How to choose love & joy after a diagnosis Grieving your old self Adding more zest into your life Laura is the host of The Better Than Before Breast Cancer Podcast. She's a Certified Life Health and Nutrition Coach...
2023-10-0445 min
Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachWhen You Eat is as Important as What You EatWould you like a way to support your health that's not only free but will actually save you money? Are you interested in: Lowering your blood sugar Improving your insulin sensitivity Improving your memory Lowering your resting heart rate Improving your sensitivity to your cancer treatments This episode is for you. On today's Tuesday Terrain Talk, I'll give you insights that go beyond reducing calories for weight loss. I'll help you understand what happens when you eat and how becoming mindful...
2023-08-0133 minBetter Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachBorrowed Hope What do you do when… • You don't know what step to take next? • You feel completely alone? • The light at the end of the tunnel feels like a myth? You borrow hope. Not from someone who has it all figured out… But from someone who's just a little further down the path. In this episode, I talk about those moments of darkness that come with breast cancer—when the overwhelm is heavy and the future feels uncertain. ✨ And how the simple act of reaching out, connecting, and receiving h...
2021-09-1020 minBetter Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachI Want to Feel Alive Have you ever asked yourself what it feels like to be alive? After breast cancer, so many women are on a quest to "feel normal" again… But what does normal actually mean? ✨ Is it about doing things like you used to? ✨ Or is it about feeling joy, presence, and connection in the life you're living now? In this week's episode, I invite you to explore a different perspective—one that's not about chasing what was, but about reconnecting with what is. 💗 We'll talk about: • Why "normal" can be a limiting goal aft...
2021-09-0325 minBetter Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachYou Are Exactly Where You Are Supposed to Be✨ "I shouldn't be here." ✨ "I should be past this by now." ✨ "This shouldn't still be happening." Have you ever said one of these to yourself? If so, you're not alone—and you're not doing anything wrong. But those thoughts? They can quietly chip away at your peace and your healing. When we resist where we are, we shut the door on the gifts of this moment—the wisdom, the growth, the clarity that only now can offer. 🌱 What if where you are right now isn't a mistake… but an invitation?...
2021-08-2730 minBetter Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachWhen You Just Need A BreakWe all need a break sometimes. Not just from work or errands, but from everything—the constant noise, the scary headlines, the pressure to "stay strong." If you've been feeling overwhelmed, worn thin, or just not like yourself lately, this week's episode is a permission slip: 🕊️ A permission slip to take a step back. To stop absorbing everyone else's emotions. To check in and ask yourself: What do I need right now? You don't need to justify your weariness. You don't have to earn rest. You are worthy of emotio...
2021-08-2023 minBetter Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachHow to Stop Living by Other Peoples ThoughtsMuch of our lives are spent meeting other people's expectations or fulfilling their needs. We can easily lose sight of what we need, how to listen to our own intuition, or feel confident standing in our own truth. When you find yourself in the struggle of feeling stuck in other people's thoughts there are three steps you can take to move closer to creating the life you really want. In this week's episode we talk about those steps, how to become more aware of them, and how to take small steps toward listening...
2021-08-1329 minBetter Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachThe Hidden Thoughts That Keep us Caught Between Two Worlds🧠 Sometimes it's not a big, life-altering moment that holds us back… It's a quiet thought. Like a splinter under the skin or a single hair brushing your cheek—so subtle you can't even see it, yet impossible to ignore. In this episode, I'm sharing two thoughts that crept in during my own healing journey. They were sneaky. Uncomfortable. And hard to name. But once I gently uncovered them and held them up to the light… I felt so much freedom. ✨ What if you have a thought like that, quietly affecting y...
2021-08-0728 minBetter Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachI Am Here For You 🌸 When was the last time you said to yourself: "I am here for you"? Not in a joking way. Not while pushing through or toughing it out. But in a real, nurturing way—like you would for a friend in need. I came across this beautiful teaching from Thich Nhat Hanh, and it stopped me in my tracks. How often do we rush to be there for others… yet abandon ourselves when we need support the most? In this episode, I'm sharing: ✨ Why this one simple phrase can shift your relationship with yourself
2021-07-3029 minBetter Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachThe Road to Suffering is Paved with Expectations✨ What if you dropped all expectations… just for a moment? What would it feel like to not expect your body to bounce back by now? To not expect yourself to feel better, look better, or be stronger than you are today? Would it feel like giving up? Or maybe… would it feel like freedom? In this episode of the Better Than Before Breast Cancer™ podcast, I'm talking about expectations—where they come from, how they quietly create suffering, and how they often steal joy from our healing journey. 🌱 You'll hear a simple way to...
2021-07-2326 minBetter Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachBONUS-Metta MeditationUse this meditation to support your work in dealing with people who have toxic behaviors in your life. Including yourself. Follow me on Social Media: Facebook Instagram Pinterest YouTube
2021-07-1609 minBetter Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachHow Toxic People Affect your Health and What to do About it💞 Some people fill your cup… others drain it completely. When we talk about healing after breast cancer, we often focus on food, exercise, supplements, or treatment plans. And yes, those things are essential. But here's what we can't ignore: toxic relationships can make us sick—emotionally, mentally, and even physically. In this week's episode, I'm talking about the role relationships play in our recovery. You'll learn how certain behaviors—like manipulation, gaslighting, or chronic negativity—can hold back your healing… and what you can start doing to reclaim your peace. This isn't about c...
2021-07-1645 minBetter Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachTen Lessons From Ten Years of Surviving Breast Cancer 💗 Ten Years Since I First Heard, "You Have Breast Cancer." It's hard to believe it's been a full decade since I was first diagnosed with breast cancer. Ten years of lessons, tears, growth, and healing. Since then, I've faced a second diagnosis—stage 4 in 2020—and I've also had the privilege of supporting hundreds of women walking this path through coaching, workshops, and this podcast. In this episode, I share ten of the most powerful lessons I've learned about healing, mindset, and creating a fulfilling life beyond cancer. Whether you're newly diagnosed or decades int...
2021-07-0945 minBetter Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachInsights on Lifestyle and Healing from the Land of Fire and IceWhat Iceland Taught Me About Healing Spending time in Iceland—where the air is crisp, the water is pure, and the pace of life feels intentional—got me thinking… 🌿 Does the lifestyle there help reduce breast cancer risk? Or maybe more importantly—has your diagnosis led you to create the lifestyle you always dreamed of? In this episode, I share some powerful reflections that surfaced while experiencing the simplicity and wellness mindset woven into Icelandic living. You'll hear how changing your environment—or just the way you think about it—can open doors to dee...
2021-07-0326 minBetter Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachOff to Iceland ENCORE 🥬✨ Encore Episode: When Plants Meet Fats We're revisiting one of the most deliciously supportive episodes from the Better Than Before Breast Cancer podcast—Episode #38: When Plants Meet Fats. If you've ever thought eating more plants meant sacrificing flavor or satisfaction, this show is for you. 🌿 You'll learn how pairing plant-based foods with healthy fats can: ✔️ Increase nutrient absorption ✔️ Satisfy cravings ✔️ Support your healing terrain And let's be honest—olive oil on roasted veggies or avocado with just about anything? That's not deprivation… that's joy on a plate. ✨ This encore episode is also...
2021-06-2529 minBetter Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachTaking all the Time You Need and Choosing Happiness Along the Way🌸 How long will you wait before you let yourself be happy? If you've ever said, "I should feel better by now" or felt disappointed that healing isn't happening fast enough, you're not alone. Breast cancer turns your life upside down, and it can be so tempting to chase deadlines—"I'll be happy when I lose the weight… when the fatigue goes away… when I feel like myself again." But what if your healing journey isn't on a timer? In this episode of Better Than Before Breast Cancer, we talk about dropping the pressure...
2021-06-1924 minBetter Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachMoving Beyond the Cancer Victim Mentality🎙 When it feels like everything is out of your control… what do you hold onto? Being diagnosed with breast cancer often means stepping into a whirlwind of unfamiliar terms, overwhelming options, and terrifying possibilities. It's no wonder so many women feel like they've lost their voice in the process. But what if taking back your power doesn't mean pretending it wasn't hard? What if it means honoring the fact that you made tough choices—and that matters? In this episode of Better Than Before Breast Cancer, I talk about how feelings of powerlessn...
2021-06-1128 min
Conquer The DayCancer Is Not An Identity: learning to live a more beautiful life with Breast Cancer Recovery Coach, Laura Lummer.How would your life change if you gave yourself more grace and advocated for yourself? In this powerful episode, we are joined by The Breast Cancer Recovery Coach, Laura Lummer. Laura shares her personal experience receiving the news that she had cancer not once, but twice, lessons she has learned along the way, and how it has impacted her desire to help other women navigating their own journeys with breast cancer. With any challenge we face we are empowered to heal and move forward with the help of community, giving yourself grace to feel all the emotions, advocate for...
2021-06-081h 13Better Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachKeeping it Simple to Support Your Happiness✨ Do you remember the stillness of lockdown life? For many of us, it brought something unexpected: simplicity. Fewer commitments. Less rushing. More breathing room. So why, now that life is back in full swing, do we fill our calendars to the brim and wonder why we feel exhausted? In this episode of Better Than Before Breast Cancer, I share how returning to simplicity is not only okay—it's essential for wellness after cancer. You'll hear a few gentle mindset shifts and a simple exercise to help you reduce the overwhelm and stay aligned...
2021-06-0622 minBetter Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachWhat if Strong Isn't What You Think?"You're so strong." How many times have you heard that since your diagnosis? But what does being strong even mean? Is it pushing through tears? Hiding pain? Never asking for help? In this episode of Better Than Before Breast Cancer, I gently challenge the idea that strength means stoicism. I share the hidden cost of clinging to that version of strength—and how redefining it opened the door to deeper peace, more joy, and real connection. 💗 You'll learn: – Why the "strong" story might be holding you back – How vulnerabilit...
2021-05-2923 minBetter Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachSupporting Your Healing and Your Life with Abundant ThinkingWhat if you expected good things to happen? After a breast cancer diagnosis, it's easy—and completely understandable—to fall into a mindset of fear and scarcity. Life feels uncertain. Safe ground feels shaken. But what if you could shift that mindset? In this episode of Better Than Before Breast Cancer, we explore: 🌱 Why your expectations shape your healing journey 🔄 How to move from fear-based thinking to believing in possibility ✨ What it takes to stop reaching backward and start welcoming forward If you've ever caught yourself saying, "I just want my ol...
2021-05-2224 minBetter Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachAnger Could be Undermining Your Wellness After Breast CancerSupporting your wellness extends way beyond what you eat and how you move your body. In this show we talk about the powerful emotion of anger. Where it comes up in your life, and how it has a physical impact on your wellness. I'll also give you a few simple steps to work on identifying and releasing anger from your life. Learning to let go of this powerful emotion can clear the way to letting more peace and joy into your life. Referred to in this episode:
2021-05-1524 minBetter Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachA Tribute to the Experience of Motherhood and Breast CancerGoing through breast cancer is never just about the person who's diagnosed. It ripples out to every relationship—especially the sacred one between mothers and daughters. In this week's episode of Better Than Before Breast Cancer, I asked my members to share how breast cancer impacted them as mothers… or how it changed their relationships with their own mothers or children. The responses? 💬 Raw. Real. So deeply moving. From fears about being a burden, to finding unexpected strength in one another, these stories remind us of the resilience that lov...
2021-05-0824 minBetter Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachThe Sick Role...What it is and How to Get Out of itGetting a breast cancer diagnosis is traumatic—no doubt about it. But what happens when that trauma doesn't end with treatment? In this week's episode of Better Than Before Breast Cancer, we're talking about something few people address: the emotional weight of staying in a state of illness long after the diagnosis. ✨ I'll share why the ongoing nature of managing breast cancer can create resistance, frustration, and even resentment toward therapies that could be life-saving. ✨ We'll explore the idea of "The Sick Role"—a social identity we sometimes unknowingly adopt—and how it can sh...
2021-05-0126 minBetter Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachNine Tips for a More Successful RecoveryTired of hearing only the scary stories about breast cancer treatment? In this week's episode of Better Than Before Breast Cancer, I'm flipping the script and sharing something different—real tips from real survivors on how to make your treatment and recovery easier. These powerful women opened up about: • What they wish they had known before treatment started • Simple things that helped ease their physical and emotional recovery • Small changes that made a big difference in their comfort and mindset • Encouragement and wisdom they want every survivor to hear 🎧 If you're starting t...
2021-04-2422 minBetter Than Before Breast Cancer with The Breast Cancer Recovery CoachWhat Happened to Your Dreams? When was the last time you gave yourself permission to dream? Life's demands—and especially the aftermath of cancer or seasons like lockdown—can bury our desires under routines, responsibilities, and survival mode. But dreaming isn't a luxury—it's a form of healing. In this episode of Better Than Before Breast Cancer, we explore: • Why dreaming is essential to emotional recovery and personal growth • How to begin reconnecting with the vision you have for your life • Common pitfalls that stop us from dreaming big (and how to move past them) • Simple, heart-centered s...
2021-04-1727 min