• 76. GLP-1s, Dopamine, and Food Noise: A New Way to Experience Food
    Sep 10 2025

    Today’s episode is all about something I know so many of you have struggled with: that constant chatter in your head around food. The “should I eat this?” … “why can’t I stop?” … “just one more bite” loop that feels like it never shuts off. This “food noise” can feel exhausting, overwhelming, and even isolating.

    In this episode, I’m diving into how GLP-1 medications can quiet that food noise, shift the urge to binge, and create more freedom in your relationship with food. We’ll talk about the connection between dopamine, ADHD, and binge eating, and how microdosing GLP-1s can bring calm where there used to be chaos.

    I’ll also share the flip side of this, because while reduced appetite and food noise can be a relief, some people find that eating loses its pleasure. That’s why it’s so important to reframe our relationship with food from an emotional tug-of-war into something more neutral, where food supports life instead of consuming your thoughts non stop.


    Episode Recap:

    • How GLP-1s can change your relationship with food {00:37}
    • What “food noise” is and why it leaves so many women feeling exhausted and hopeless {01:36}
    • The link between ADHD, dopamine-seeking, and impulsive eating or drinking {03:37}
    • How GLP-1s quiet brain chatter, blunt binge urges, and soften dopamine hits {06:28}
    • The freedom that comes with food taking up less mental space {08:49}
    • The flip side: when eating feels less pleasurable and more neutral {09:28}
    • Reframing neutrality around food as empowerment rather than loss {14:51}
    • Why GLP-1s are about more than appetite—they reshape mindset, habits, and pleasure {16:11}


    Links & References:

    • Click here to order peptides with EllieMD, a US based telehealth provider.
    • Book a peptide consult zoom call
    • Download my GLP 1 Peptide Guide
    • Join The Microdose Method GLP Coaching Group
    • Ep. 68 | Microdosing GLP-1s / Semaglutides: A Tool for Reducing Inflammation, Weight Loss & Insulin Resistance
    • Ep. 75 | My 6 month update on microdosing a GLP 1, how peptides impact cravings, blood sugar, and can be a tool for longevity


    Connect with me on Instagram @margaretannpowell
    Learn more about working with our team by visiting fueledandfree.com


    **Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is NOT meant to be taken as individual or medical advice. Please seek the guidance of your physician or healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment.



    Show More Show Less
    18 mins
  • 75. My 6 month update on microdosing a GLP 1, how peptides impact cravings, blood sugar, and can be a tool for longevity
    Sep 3 2025

    Today’s episode is a special one because we’re celebrating 75 episodes of the Fueled & Free Podcast! 🎉 In today's episode, I’m sharing my six-month update on microdosing a GLP-1 peptide, Tirzepatide.

    This hasn’t been about chasing shortcuts or finding an “easy way out,” but rather giving my body the support it needed to finally respond again. Over the past six months, I’ve seen not just physical changes in body composition and cravings, but also shifts in my mental health and the way I view wellness as a whole.

    I know this is not for everyone, and I’m not here to tell you what to do, but I am here to share openly about what has been a game changer for me and for so many women I’ve worked with. You are NOT broken. And you don’t have to white-knuckle your way through your health journey to create real change. If you’ve been curious about peptides, weight loss, or even the stigma around weight management, this episode will encourage you to explore your options without shame.


    Episode Recap:

    • My six-month update on microdosing GLP-1 {1:08}
    • Physical changes, body composition, and reduced cravings {06:30}
    • Exploring peptides and how they benefit in many ways {10:59}
    • Cultural shifts in weight loss & public conversations (Serena Williams, etc.) {16:34}
    • Why emotional health is just as important as physical health {22:19}
    • The stigma around weight loss + how I worked through it {23:04}
    • Long-term use of GLP-1 and who it may help {31:06}
    • Why you deserve support and education in your journey {38:12}
    • Letting go of shame and embracing your health choices {44:23}


    Links & References:

    • Click here to order peptides with EllieMD, a US based telehealth provider.
    • Book a peptide consult zoom call
    • Download my GLP 1 Peptide Guide
    • Join The Microdose Method GLP Coaching Group
    • Ep. 68 | Microdosing GLP-1s / Semaglutides: A Tool for Reducing Inflammation, Weight Loss & Insulin Resistance
    • Ep. 74 | Feeling puffy, inflamed and stuck with your weight? Sharing my honest experience in microdosing a GLP 1.


    Connect with me on Instagram @margaretannpowell
    Learn more about working with our team by visiting fueledandfree.com


    **Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is NOT meant to be taken as individual or medical advice. Please seek the guidance of your physician or healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment.



    Show More Show Less
    46 mins
  • 74. Feeling Puffy, Inflamed, and Stuck with Your Weight? Sharing My Honest Experience Microdosing a GLP-1
    May 28 2025

    Today’s episode is a vulnerable one, and honestly…not something I ever thought I would be sharing: my personal journey with microdosing a GLP-1 peptide. This wasn’t about chasing a shortcut or “cheating”, but about giving my body the support it needed to respond again!

    I’m not saying you should do this, because I know it’s not for everyone. But…I’m also not here to gatekeep, and I will GLADLY share something that’s been a game changer for me (plus many of the women I’ve worked with)!

    You’re NOT broken, and you don’t have to “white-knuckle” your way through your health to make progress. If you’re curious about using a GLP-1 in a safe and aligned way, you DESERVE the freedom to explore that - without shame. Our team would love to support you in doing so!


    Episode Recap:

    • The frustrating reality of doing #allthethings for your health, but still not seeing the changes you want {1:53}
    • Why I chose to microdose a GLP-1 + how I knew it was the right next step {5:57}
    • The positive shifts I’d made with my health, but still being being borderline insulin resistant {16:48}
    • The internal judgment I had around using a GLP-1 + how I worked thru it {18:44}
    • What I’ve learned since microdosing tirzepatide {22:06}
    • What *actually* changed for me after microdosing + what it didn’t “fix” {24:14}
    • My current health stats + why it’s okay to WANT to change your body {33:04}
    • How your personal health story impacts how your body responds {31:06}
    • The plan I followed & how I approached this process {38:12}
    • Why we need to stop believing that struggle is the only path to healing {44:23}
    • Why your body needs to be ready to respond to GLP-1s for them to work effectively {47:44}
    • Amazing results our clients are seeing with solid foundations already in place {51:12}
    • My honest reflections on this experience {53:46}


    Links & References:

    • The GLP-1 Peptide Episode Everyone’s Been Waiting for w/Dr. Gus Vickery
    • Stelo continuous glucose monitor (CGM)
    • How peptides are being used to reverse NA fatty liver disease, kidney disease, high BP, etc.
    • Telehealth platform to get microdose GLP 1 peptide prescription
    • Ep. 68 | Microdosing GLP-1s / Semaglutides: A Tool for Reducing Inflammation, Weight Loss & Insulin Resistance
    • Ep. 71 | The Overlooked Signs of Insulin Resistance in Women 35+
    • Connect with me on Instagram @margaretannpowell
    • Learn more about working with our team by visiting our website
    • Book a free clarity call HERE


    **Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is NOT meant to be taken as individual or medical advice. Please seek the advice of your physician or healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment.

    Show More Show Less
    59 mins
  • 73. Is Hidden Mold Making You Sick? Mold Remediation Mistakes + The Right Way To Investigate Mold with Brian Karr
    May 21 2025

    If you’ve ever wondered whether your home environment could be sabotaging your health, today’s episode is for YOU.


    I’m joined by nationally recognized mold investigator, Brian Karr, co-founder of We Inspect and The Dust Test, who shares jaw-dropping insights on all things mold. Brian didn’t set out to become a mold expert, but he did have his own life-altering experience with mold.


    Since then, he’s helped over 10,000 people identify and reduce mold exposure and other environmental toxins with clarity, NOT panic!


    Ultimately, you can’t fix something if you don’t know the true source of where it’s coming from.


    Whether you’ve dealt with chronic inflammation, fatigue, brain fog, skin issues, or other frustrating health symptoms, this conversation with Brian is a MUST-listen. Get ready to be much more informed about mold and empowered as you navigate your health journey!


    Episode Recap:

    • Brian’s story of discovering toxic mold in his apartment + how it launched his mission to help others {3:53}
    • What can happen when you unknowingly stay in a mold-infested environment {10:38}
    • Differences between a traditional home inspector vs. mold consultant + why this matters {12:19}
    • Why Brian’s team takes a “balanced” approach to remediation {13:06}
    • Subtle & powerful signs (like nose blindness) of mold in your space {16:51}
    • Why symptoms can vary for people living in the same home {24:59}
    • Key steps to take if you suspect mold growth in your home {36:53}
    • How Brian’s team tests + identifies the root source of mold {44:51}
    • How HVAC systems can spread toxins throughout your space + what to watch for {54:55}
    • 3 crucial pieces your remediation plan must contain + the importance of clear, supportive communication during this process {58:37}



    Links & References:

    • Full show notes HERE
    • Follow Brian on Instagram @moldfinders
    • Check out Brian’s website
    • Book a free clarity call with Brian, click here.
    • Check out the Dust Test
    • Listen to #moldfinders: RADIO
    • Ep. 43 | Our experience with mold exposure this summer, supporting your body during mold exposure, symptoms of mold illness
    • Connect with me on Instagram @margaretannpowell
    • Learn more about working with our team by visiting our website
    • Book a free clarity call HERE
    • Send us an email at fueledandfreepodcast@gmail.com



    **Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is NOT meant to be taken as individual or medical advice. Please seek the advice of your physician or healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment.

    Show More Show Less
    1 hr and 6 mins
  • 72. Why I Stopped Drinking Alcohol, the Sober Curious + Cali Sober Movement & How GLP-1s are Influencing Alcohol Consumption
    May 14 2025

    Today’s episode is a long time coming, and it’s regarding something that’s really shifting in our culture right now: alcohol.


    I’m diving into my personal journey with alcohol and growing up around addiction, the rise of the sober curious movement (especially with millennials and Gen-Zers), the significant impact on women’s health, why more people are turning to cannabis / THC, and more.


    Alcohol no longer serves me; I’ve personally made the decision to quit it, and I’m consciously breaking a multi-generational cycle of alcohol dependance.


    I hope this episode empowers you to look at what’s really serving you (and what’s not). You deserve to live a healthy, vibrant, and aligned life!



    Episode Recap:

    • My early exposure to alcohol + how I’ve continually reevaluated my relationship with it {4:58}
    • Why alcohol was the one thing I justified keeping in my routine {9:56}
    • My “sober curious” journey & realizing I no longer need alcohol {11:52}
    • Benefits I’ve noticed since quitting alcohol {17:09}
    • How alcohol impacts women’s health in their 30s & 40s {21:42}
    • The generational shift as younger people move away from alcohol {29:21}
    • How increased cannabis use is affecting alcohol consumption {31:22}
    • Downsides to regular THC use {33:46}
    • Getting honest about why you’re really using cannabis & THC + my personal experience {35:54}
    • The surprising connection between GLP-1 medications & alcohol cravings {41:16}
    • How the media constantly glamorizes alcohol {44:00}


    Links & References:

    • Full show notes HERE
    • It Didn’t Start With You by Mark Wolynn
    • The Naked Mind by Annie Grace
    • We Are the Luckiest by Laura McKowen
    • The Chalene Show with Chalene Johnson
    • Oura Ring discount for 10% off
    • Ep. 68 | Microdosing GLP-1s / Semaglutides: A Tool for Reducing Inflammation, Weight Loss & Insulin Resistance
    • Connect with me on Instagram @margaretannpowell
    • Learn more about working with our team by visiting our website
    • Book a free clarity call HERE
    • Send us an email at fueledandfreepodcast@gmail.com


    **Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is NOT meant to be taken as individual or medical advice. Please seek the advice of your physician or healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment.

    Show More Show Less
    51 mins
  • 71. The Overlooked Signs of Insulin Resistance in Women 35+
    May 7 2025

    Insulin resistance is one of THE most overlooked root causes of fatigue, stubborn weight, cravings, brain fog, mood swings, and more. And yet…most women don’t even know it’s happening in their bodies.


    I’m diving into why insulin resistance is more than a blood sugar problem, subtle signs that show up for women in midlife (and are often ignored), root causes to insulin resistance, why the conventional medical approach tends to miss the mark, and more.


    You’re not lazy, you’re not broken, and you’re not a failure! You ARE missing crucial pieces of the puzzle though, and that’s where our team can help. We’re currently accepting new clients for May and June 2025 in our 1:1 program, and we would be honored to support you on your healing journey!


    Episode Recap:

    • Why blood sugar issues are skyrocketing + why this impacts women 35+ even MORE {1:28}
    • Sneaky symptoms of insulin resistance that are often ignored {4:38}
    • What traditional labs might miss with insulin resistance + why the conventional approach falls short {7:08}
    • Key functional ranges for fasting glucose, A1C & insulin + why ‘normal’ doesn’t mean optimal {11:02}
    • Root causes of insulin resistance {14:59}
    • Conventional approaches to ‘fixing’ your insulin & blood sugar issues {21:53}
    • Building meals that stabilize blood sugar + increase metabolic flexibility {23:26}
    • Strategically using GLP-1s {25:00}
    • Client success story using a personalized + functional healing plan {26:48}


    Links & References:

    • Check out the full show notes HERE
    • Grab your FREE Perimenopause guide
    • Ep. 27 | Protein: why it’s so important, how much you should eat, strategies to increase your protein intake, and eating protein for fat loss
    • Ep. 68 | Microdosing GLP-1s / Semaglutides: A Tool for Reducing Inflammation, Weight Loss & Insulin Resistance
    • Ep. 55 | The PCOS-Thyroid Connection: What You Need to Know + Advocating for Proper Blood Panels
    • Ep. 10 | Empowering Women with PCOS: Understanding Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Holistic Treatment Options
    • Connect with me on Instagram @margaretannpowell
    • Learn more about working with our team by visiting our website
    • Book a free clarity call HERE
    • Send us an email at fueledandfreepodcast@gmail.com


    **Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is NOT meant to be taken as individual or medical advice. Please seek the advice of your physician or healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment.

    Show More Show Less
    32 mins
  • 70. Is Chasing the "Root Cause" Keeping You Stuck?
    Apr 30 2025

    Today’s episode topic is one that may feel a little uncomfortable, but it’s something I see time and time again in the holistic and functional health space: the obsession with finding the root cause.


    I’m diving into why healing doesn’t always follow a linear path, how it looks when you get caught up in trying to ‘fix’ yourself and obsess over every.single.thing, why leaning into self-awareness can be the most powerful tool in your healing journey, and more.


    You might never find that elusive ‘root cause’, but that’s okay! It doesn’t mean that you’re broken - your progress still matters, even when it’s not showing up on a lab test.


    If you're ready for personalized support that’s rooted in guidance (not judgment), our 1:1 program might be the next step for you. We’re currently accepting new clients for May 2025, and would LOVE to walk alongside you on your healing journey!


    Episode Recap:

    • Why symptoms aren’t random, but actually key messengers from your body {5:16}
    • Common archetypes of women who tend to get ‘stuck’ in their healing {11:56}
    • Why doing everything right doesn’t always mean feeling your best {21:51}
    • How self-awareness can shift everything on your healing journey {29:32}
    • Realizing that you may never find THE root cause + why this is okay {36:40}


    Links & References:

    • Check out the full show notes HERE
    • Root cause protocol with Morley Robbins
    • Connect with me on Instagram @margaretannpowell
    • Learn more about working with our team by visiting our website
    • Book a free clarity call HERE
    • Send us an email at fueledandfreepodcast@gmail.com


    **Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is NOT meant to be taken as individual or medical advice. Please seek the advice of your physician or healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment.

    Show More Show Less
    42 mins
  • 69. Mastering The Mundane With ADHD Mom Coach Amy Hann
    Apr 23 2025

    ADHD can show up in ways we don’t always expect - especially for moms juggling the everyday demands of parenting, career, personal growth, and everything in between!


    Today’s episode features Amy Hann, the creator of Master the Mundane, an online community and course designed specifically for moms with ADHD. Amy is the master of ALL things ADHD (she was diagnosed at age 5), and her personal story is deeply rooted in neurodiversity.


    If you’ve ever wondered what ADHD really looks like for women in everyday life, this is a must-listen episode. Remember - you are your OWN advocate, and it’s important that you have grace and compassion for yourself on this journey!


    Episode Recap:

    • Amy’s lifelong journey with ADHD + how it’s shaped her role as mom, partner & educator {3:08}
    • How to tell the difference between ADHD in women vs. “mom brain” or burnout {4:52}
    • Benefits of getting an ‘official’ ADHD diagnosis {7:25}
    • How ADHD presents in women compared to men or children {9:08}
    • Moving away from comparing yourself & family to neurotypical families {15:30}
    • How building consistency with daily habits can support your ADHD brain {19:27}
    • Simplifying your routine & schedule by focusing on 3 daily tasks {23:16}
    • Outsourcing where needed {29:21}
    • Understanding that you’re NOT alone if you’re feeling overwhelmed & stretched thin in your day-to-day life {31:55}
    • Finding a safe & supportive community + advocating for yourself {34:47}
    • How hormonal shifts in perimenopause can greatly impact ADHD {37:24}
    • Exploring natural & holistic tools that complement medication for a more ‘balanced’ approach {40:35}


    Links & References:

    • Connect with Amy on Instagram @activatedadhdmama
    • Learn more about Amy by visiting her website
    • Check out Amy’s book, Master the Mundane (releasing Sept. 2025)
    • Connect with me on Instagram @margaretannpowell
    • Learn more about working with our team by visiting our website
    • Book a free clarity call HERE
    • Send us an email at fueledandfreepodcast@gmail.com
    Show More Show Less
    45 mins