The Flourish Heights Podcast

Why Am I So Tired? (Spoiler: It Might Be Iron)

Ever feel so tired even after a full night’s sleep? Can’t focus? Struggle with mood swings, hair shedding, or heavy periods? You might be low in iron — and you’re not alone. A recent JAMA study found that nearly 40% of girls and women have low iron levels.

In this episode, we’re breaking down what iron actually does in your body, why it matters so much for your energy, hormones, and periods, and how to spot the signs of a deficiency. I’ll share how to check your iron status (and what those labs even mean), how food plays a role, and the top 3 meals I swear by when trying to get more iron in.

We’re also talking about who’s most at risk! If your energy hasn’t been energy-ing lately, this one’s for you. LISTEN UP!

The Flourish Heights Podcast was made for women, by women. To be empowered in health starts with a true connection with your body. Join Valerie Agyeman, Women’s Health Dietitian as she breaks through topics surrounding periods, women’s nutrition, body awareness, and self-care. 

Stay Connected:

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @flourishheights / @valerieagyeman / Women's Health Hub: @flourishvulva

Is there a topic you'd like covered on the podcast? Submit it to hello@flourishheights.com

Say hello! Email us at hello@flourishheights.com

Subscribe to our quarterly newsletters: Flourish Heights Newsletter

Visit our website: www.flourishheights.com

Want to support this podcast? Leave a rating, write a review and share! Thank you!

How to Talk to Men About Your Body (w/ Dr. Shweta Patel)

Let’s be real! Talking to the men in our lives about periods, fertility, or anything related to our bodies can feel super awkward. But it shouldn’t be that way. In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Shweta, OBGYN, to break down why these convos feel so uncomfortable and how to make them way more normal, honest, and supportive.

From PCOS and painful sex to fertility struggles and hormonal acne, we’re covering how to open up these topics with partners, dads, brothers, or even guy friends, without feeling dismissed or overwhelmed.

Plus, we talk about how to raise boys who actually get it when it comes to women’s health. If you’ve ever felt like “he just doesn’t understand,” this one’s for you. LISTEN UP!!!

About Dr. Shweta Patel

Dr. Shweta Patel is a board-certified OB/GYN, the founder of Gaya Wellness, and the author of The Book of Hormones: The Ultimate Playbook for Women’s Health and Hormonal Balance. With over a decade of experience in both military and civilian medicine, Dr. Patel is redefining how women experience healthcare, making it more comprehensive, convenient, and deeply supportive.

After earning her medical degree from SUNY Buffalo in her home state of New York, Dr. Patel was commissioned into the United States Navy, where she served with distinction for 13 years as a medical officer. She later transitioned to private practice in Winter Garden, Florida, where she built a hospital-owned OB/GYN practice.

Dr. Patel launched Gaya Wellness in response to the critical gaps in women’s healthcare that were magnified during the pandemic. Her mission: to create a virtual care experience where women feel heard, empowered, and clear on their health choices every step of the way.

In her bestselling book, The Book of Hormones, Dr. Patel offers a bold and refreshing perspective on hormonal health, challenging outdated medical norms and calling for a more woman-centered approach to care.

When she's not seeing patients or building her wellness platform, you’ll find Dr. Patel spending time with her two dogs, Dash and Mimi, discovering new places, enjoying live music, and indulging in her favorite form of self-care facials.

 

Connect with Shweta:

IG: @TheVirtualGyno

Website: https://www.gayawellness.org/

Book: https://www.amazon.com/Book-Hormones-Ultimate-Playbook-Hormonal/dp/B0DL9T42MP

Stay Connected:

Is there a topic you'd like covered on the podcast? Submit it to hello@flourishheights.com

Subscribe to our quarterly newsletters: Flourish Heights Newsletter

Visit our website + nutrition blog: www.flourishheights.com

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @flourishheights / Women's Health Hub: @flourishvulva / @valerieagyeman

Facebook: @flourishheights

Twitter: @flourishheights

Want to support this podcast? Leave a rating, write a review and share! Thank you!

We Need to Talk...About My Caffeine Breakup! Anyone Else?!

So, I broke up with caffeine!!! It wasn’t a dramatic moment, just me realizing it wasn’t really working for me anymore. In this episode, I’m sharing what led to the decision, how it’s been going, and what I’ve noticed in my energy, focus, and mood since making the switch. I’m also sharing results from a poll we did with coffee drinkers — turns out a lot of us have mixed feelings about our caffeine habits. If you’ve ever thought about cutting back or just want to hear how it went, this one’s for you. LISTEN UP!

The Flourish Heights Podcast was made for women, by women. To be empowered in health starts with a true connection with your body. Join Valerie Agyeman, Women’s Health Dietitian as she breaks through topics surrounding periods, women’s nutrition, body awareness, and self-care. 

Stay Connected:

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @flourishheights / @valerieagyeman / Women's Health Hub: @flourishvulva

Is there a topic you'd like covered on the podcast? Submit it to hello@flourishheights.com

Say hello! Email us at hello@flourishheights.com

Subscribe to our quarterly newsletters: Flourish Heights Newsletter

Visit our website: www.flourishheights.com

Want to support this podcast? Leave a rating, write a review and share! Thank you!

Pregnant, Queasy, and Confused? You Need This Food Chat (w/ Julianka Bell)

Pregnancy is a lot. Your body’s changing in real time, your cravings make zero sense, and suddenly everyone has an opinion about what you should or shouldn’t be eating. It’s overwhelming, confusing, and honestly? Sometimes just straight-up annoying.

That’s why we’re cutting through the noise in today’s episode and getting into the real stuff. I’m in convo with women’s health dietitian Julianka Bell, who’s worked with tons of moms-to-be and knows how to make nutrition feel supportive, doable, and actually helpful minus the guilt or outdated rules.

Even if you’re not pregnant, but you’re thinking ahead or just want to feel more confident about nourishing yourself in this season, there’s something here for you too.

Hit play...you’re gonna love this one. LISTEN UP!

The Flourish Heights Podcast was made for women, by women. To be empowered in health starts with a true connection with your body. Join Valerie Agyeman, Women’s Health Dietitian as she breaks through topics surrounding periods, women’s nutrition, body awareness, and self-care. 

About Julianka Bell

Julianka Bell, MS, RD is a registered dietitian specializing in women's health and nutrition communications, focusing on integrative and functional medicine. With over a decade of experience, Julianka has dedicated her career to simplifying complex nutritional concepts and creating meaningful, actionable health strategies for women across the perinatal journey—from preconception through early motherhood.

A mom of two toddlers, Julianka combines her professional expertise with a deep, firsthand understanding of women's challenges in navigating their health. She is the founder of MotherKin, a private practice that provides one-on-one support to women navigating preconception through perimenopause. Julianka is also the Director of Marketing & Communications at FullWell, a fertility wellness company, where she leverages her expertise in nutrition communications and brand strategy to help elevate the company’s mission of empowering people with science-backed nutrition.

With a BA in Psychology from Temple University and an MS in Nutrition Communications from Tufts University, Julianka brings a unique blend of scientific expertise and empathy to her work. Her approach integrates both evidence-based nutrition and a deep understanding of the personal, emotional, and societal factors influencing women's health. Julianka’s professional philosophy emphasizes authenticity, relatability, and practical guidance, ensuring women have the tools and support to nourish themselves during life’s transformative stages.

 

Connect with Julianka Bell:

IG: @JuliankaBell

Website: https://www.wearemotherkin.com/home

Julianka's favorite Costco snacks in Business Insider: https://www.businessinsider.com/best-snacks-costco-executive-member-dietitian-mom-2025-4

Stay Connected:

Is there a topic you'd like covered on the podcast? Submit it to hello@flourishheights.com

Subscribe to our quarterly newsletters: Flourish Heights Newsletter

Visit our website + nutrition blog: www.flourishheights.com

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @flourishheights / Women's Health Hub: @flourishvulva / @valerieagyeman

Facebook: @flourishheights

Twitter: @flourishheights

Want to support this podcast? Leave a rating, write a review and share! Thank you!

The Plastic Items I Swapped for a Safer, Healthier Kitchen

I know we spend a lot of time talking about what to eat but today, I want to talk about how we’re cooking and storing that food. Because some of the most common kitchen items like plastic containers and old nonstick pans can quietly mess with our hormones thanks to chemicals like BPA, phthalates, and PFAS.

In this episode, I’m walking you through some kitchen swaps I genuinely think are worth making. No overwhelm, no pressure just small changes that can make a real difference over time.

If you’re looking for easy, practical ways to lower your exposure to toxins and support your hormone health, this one’s for you.

LISTEN UP!

The Flourish Heights Podcast was made for women, by women. To be empowered in health starts with a true connection with your body. Join Valerie Agyeman, Women’s Health Dietitian as she breaks through topics surrounding periods, women’s nutrition, body awareness, and self-care. 

Check out this NIH Fact Sheet on Endocrine Disrupters: https://www.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/health/materials/endocrine_disruptors_508.pdf

Stay Connected:

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @flourishheights / @valerieagyeman / Women's Health Hub: @flourishvulva

Is there a topic you'd like covered on the podcast? Submit it to hello@flourishheights.com

Say hello! Email us at hello@flourishheights.com

Subscribe to our quarterly newsletters: Flourish Heights Newsletter

Visit our website + nutrition blog: www.flourishheights.com

Want to support this podcast? Leave a rating, write a review and share! Thank you!

Yes, Your Hormones Can Mess With Your Teeth (w/ Dr. Arlene Asante)

Girl, I know I’m not the only one who’d rather skip the dentist, but trust me, what you eat, your hormones (yes, pregnancy, menopause, and everything in between) and even your stress levels can seriously impact your mouth...and your overall well-being! Dr. Arlene Asante is here to spill the tea on why those dental visits are non-negotiable and how to keep both your smile and your health on point. You definitely don’t want to miss this one! LISTEN UP!

The Flourish Heights Podcast was made for women, by women. To be empowered in health starts with a true connection with your body. Join Valerie Agyeman, Women’s Health Dietitian as she breaks through topics surrounding periods, women’s nutrition, body awareness, and self-care. 

About Dr. Arlene Asante

Dr. Arlene Asante is a dentist, motivational speaker, life coach, and mentor passionate about transforming lives inside and outside the dental office. A native of Hyattsville, Maryland, she earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from Howard University College of Dentistry and completed an Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) program in Bangor, Maine. She specializes in Implantology, Invisalign®, and Cosmetic Dentistry and is a certified Invisalign® provider, with advanced training from institutions like The Phelps Institute for Implantology and The Dawson Academy.

Beyond her dental expertise, Dr. Asante is known for her compassionate, patient-centered approach. She is the founder and president of Enhancing Adolescent Girls for an Evolving Resolution (EAGER, Inc.), a nonprofit mentoring program empowering young women in Baltimore City. She also coaches millennial entrepreneurs, helping them launch nonprofits and develop professional skills.

Dr. Asante has led workshops at Howard University, Morgan State University, and Coppin State University, focusing on leadership, business etiquette, and entrepreneurship. She’s a sought-after keynote speaker and panelist at women’s empowerment events.

In her free time, Dr. Asante enjoys traveling, skydiving, music, reading novels, and spending time with family and friends.

Connect with Dr. Asante:

Dr. Asante on Instagram: @drarleneasante

Website: https://firstclassmilesbethesda.com/

Watch Dr. Asante's oral health tips on Fox 5 DC: https://www.fox5dc.com/video/1555964

Stay Connected:

Is there a topic you'd like covered on the podcast? Submit it to hello@flourishheights.com

Subscribe to our quarterly newsletters: Flourish Heights Newsletter

Visit our website + nutrition blog: www.flourishheights.com

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @flourishheights / Women's Health Hub: @flourishvulva / @valerieagyeman

Facebook: @flourishheights

Twitter: @flourishheights

Want to support this podcast? Leave a rating, write a review and share! Thank you!

Pills, Powders, and Glow: Are Beauty Supplements Legit?

Beauty supplements are everywhere right now, and if you're anything like us, you've probably got a few bottles in your cabinet. With all the promises of longer hair, glowing skin, and anti-aging miracles, it’s hard not to get tempted. But do these beauty supplements actually live up to the hype, or is it just clever marketing?

In this episode, I'm cutting through the noise and helping you separate the facts from the fluff. We’ll dive into what’s actually worth your time (and money) so you can make smarter choices for your beauty routine. Let’s get to the real beauty secrets!

LISTEN UP!

The Flourish Heights Podcast was made for women, by women. To be empowered in health starts with a true connection with your body. Join Valerie Agyeman, Women’s Health Dietitian as she breaks through topics surrounding periods, women’s nutrition, body awareness, and self-care. 

Articles to check out on beauty supps!

• Women's Health Mag https://www.womenshealthmag.com/food/g45629459/foods-for-hair-growth/
• Essence: https://www.essence.com/beauty/truth-about-beauty-supplements-dietitian/
• Good Housekeeping: https://www.goodhousekeeping.com/beauty/anti-aging/g46777047/9-best-vitamins-for-skin/
• Vogue: https://www.vogue.com/article/best-collagen-supplements

Stay Connected:

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @flourishheights / @valerieagyeman / Women's Health Hub: @flourishvulva

Is there a topic you'd like covered on the podcast? Submit it to hello@flourishheights.com

Say hello! Email us at hello@flourishheights.com

Subscribe to our quarterly newsletters: Flourish Heights Newsletter

Visit our website + nutrition blog: www.flourishheights.com

Want to support this podcast? Leave a rating, write a review and share! Thank you!

Feeling Overwhelmed?! SAME. A Mental Check-In (w/ Dr. Rachel Goldman)

Ever feel like you’re your own worst critic? In this special episode, Dr. Rachel Goldman, a clinical psychologist, joins me to talk about how to check in with yourself mentally without being too hard on yourself, the sneaky signs you might be burning out, and why asking for help can be so tough. We’re also diving into how to build a solid support system, even when it feels like you’re going at it alone. Plus, Dr. Rachel’s got some simple strategies to help you turn that inner critic into your biggest cheerleader, shift your mindset when things go south, and actually celebrate your wins (without guilt). If perfectionism has a grip on you, she’s sharing the mindset shift that’ll help you drop the pressure to be perfect.

In honor of International Women’s Day, this episode is all about showing up for yourself, embracing your achievements, and breaking free from burnout. LISTEN UP!

The Flourish Heights Podcast was made for women, by women. To be empowered in health starts with a true connection with your body. Join Valerie Agyeman, Women’s Health Dietitian as she breaks through topics surrounding periods, women’s nutrition, body awareness, and self-care. 

About Dr. Rachel Goldman

Rachel L. Goldman, PhD, FTOS, FASMBS-IH (aka Dr. Rachel) is a nationally recognized clinical psychologist, speaker, and consultant who takes a holistic approach to health. Specializing in the mind-body connection, Dr. Rachel focuses on stress reduction, disordered eating behaviors, health behavior change, and the treatment of obesity. She is also a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and runs a private practice in NYC, where she utilizes cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to promote behavioral changes that lead to healthier and happier lives.

As a leading CBT expert, Dr. Rachel is an active speaker and panelist, regularly sharing her expertise at prominent conferences and events. She has been featured on national media platforms, including on-camera appearances and sharing the stage with Oprah. She served as a consultant for the film The Whale and has been quoted in top publications such as The New York Times, TIME Magazine, CNN, USA Today, and Women’s Health. Dr. Rachel is also a frequent expert guest on Sirius XM Doctor Radio.

Recognized by Women’s Health Magazine as one of the Most Inspiring Women to Follow, she was named a Women’s Health Action Hero and was recently honored as a Mental Health Coalition Champion and a Top 100 Mental Health Influencer of 2024. Dr. Rachel is passionate about empowering individuals to build their own mental health toolbox and live happier, healthier lives.

Connect with Dr. Rachel:

Dr. Rachel on Instagram: @drrachelnyc

Website: https://www.drrachelnyc.com/

Watch Dr. Rachel on Oprah's "The State of Weight": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQlpB1JNqJw

Stay Connected:

Is there a topic you'd like covered on the podcast? Submit it to hello@flourishheights.com

Subscribe to our quarterly newsletters: Flourish Heights Newsletter

Visit our website + nutrition blog: www.flourishheights.com

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @flourishheights / Women's Health Hub: @flourishvulva / @valerieagyeman

Facebook: @flourishheights

Twitter: @flourishheights

Want to support this podcast? Leave a rating, write a review and share! Thank you!

Girl...ChatGPT Is NOT Your Doctor! Book That Visit

I know some of y’all have asked ChatGPT things like, “Am I pregnant, or is my period just late?” or “Is my bloating just digestion or a red flag?” With AI becoming a go-to for medical advice, I wanted to dive into whether it’s actually trustworthy. I came across a research article where a doctor tested ChatGPT’s responses to pregnancy questions, and let’s just say, AI still has some homework to do. Today, I’m sharing 4 tips on what you should actually do when you have health concerns and why a real doctor is your best resource. LISTEN UP!

The Flourish Heights Podcast was made for women, by women. To be empowered in health starts with a true connection with your body. Join Valerie Agyeman, Women’s Health Dietitian as she breaks through topics surrounding periods, women’s nutrition, body awareness, and self-care. 

Stay Connected:

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @flourishheights / @valerieagyeman / Women's Health Hub: @flourishvulva

Is there a topic you'd like covered on the podcast? Submit it to hello@flourishheights.com

Say hello! Email us at hello@flourishheights.com

Subscribe to our quarterly newsletters: Flourish Heights Newsletter

Visit our website + nutrition blog: www.flourishheights.com

Want to support this podcast? Leave a rating, write a review and share! Thank you!

Heartbreak is One Thing, Heart Disease is Another – Let’s Talk! (w/ Erin Moran)

Heart disease is the #1 killer of women, yet it’s still not talked about enough. That changes today! I’m in convo with Erin Moran, Associate VP of Go Red for Women at the American Heart Association, to get real about heart health, the signs we CAN’T ignore, and why advocacy is everything. Plus, we dive into how her late sister Ashley’s story fuels her mission. LISTEN UP!

The Flourish Heights Podcast was made for women, by women. To be empowered in health starts with a true connection with your body. Join Valerie Agyeman, Women’s Health Dietitian as she breaks through topics surrounding periods, women’s nutrition, body awareness, and self-care. 

About Erin Moran

Erin Moran is a dedicated advocate for women's health with a strong academic background, holding a B.S. in Human Development and Family Resources, a Master's in Counseling, and a PhD in Human Sexuality. After beginning her career as a counselor in Los Angeles, she transitioned into Advertising Sales with the Los Angeles Times, where she spent 16 years honing her skills. Following the heartbreaking loss of her sister Ashley to a stroke and heart failure at just 34, Erin committed herself to raising awareness and funds for women's heart health. As the Associate Vice President for Go Red for Women with the American Heart Association, she works tirelessly to educate individuals and organizations about heart disease—an issue that affects 1 in 3 women and is largely preventable. Erin empowers women to take control of their health and advocates for meaningful change in women's health initiatives. Her passion and expertise make her a powerful voice in the fight for every female heartbeat.

Connect with Erin Moran + Heart Health Resources:

Erin's Instagram 

Erin's podcast show on Apple: There's More to Come | IG: @moretocomepodcast

Go Red for Women: https://www.goredforwomen.org/en/

American Heart Association: https://www.heart.org/

Stay Connected:

Is there a topic you'd like covered on the podcast? Submit it to hello@flourishheights.com

Subscribe to our quarterly newsletters: Flourish Heights Newsletter

Visit our website + nutrition blog: www.flourishheights.com

Follow us on social media:

Instagram: @flourishheights / Women's Health Hub: @flourishvulva / @valerieagyeman

Facebook: @flourishheights

Twitter: @flourishheights

Want to support this podcast? Leave a rating, write a review and share! Thank you!