Core Connections with Erica Ziel
Health, Fitness & Longevity
About
The Core Connections Podcast is a show dedicated to bringing you cutting-edge ideas, research + solutions for all things health, fitness and wellness related. Host, Erica Ziel, tackles controversial subjects, challenges the status quo and brings on experts to discuss topics that aren't talked about enough in women's health. Her passion for helping women feel their very best each and every day is demonstrated through her determination to educate, empower and inspire women to make the BEST decisions for THEIR bodies!
Episodes
- #337 From Infertility to Pregnancy: Natural Fertility Support with Dr. Susan Fox
In this episode of the Core Connections Podcast, Erica Ziel sits down with Dr. Susan Fox to discuss fertility, Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture, detoxification, stress, hormone balance, and women's health. Dr. Susan shares how blo…
- Kristin McGee on Women's Fitness: Strength, Core, and Longevity
Strength training for women is having a major moment—but are we missing something? In this episode of the Core Connections Podcast, I sit down with Kristin McGee to talk about the evolving fitness landscape for women. We break down the myt…
- Skin Health From the Inside Out: Hormones, Nutrition & Anti-Aging Truths with Ariana Juarez
n this episode of Core Connections , I sit down with Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner Ariana Juarez to uncover the real truth about skin health—and why your skin is never just a surface issue. Ariana shares her personal journey…
- #334 Functional vs Conventional Medicine: How to Truly Heal Your Body with Andrea Balzer
In this episode of the Core Connections podcast, Erica Ziel sits down with Andrea Balzer, functional health practitioner and founder of Counter Culture Health & Wellness, to explore why so many women still feel unwell despite being told th…
- Hair Loss in Women: Root Causes of Alopecia, Postpartum Shedding & Thinning Hair with Johanna Dahlman
In this episode of The Core Connections Podcast, Erica sits down with Johanna Dahlman, also known as the Alopecia Angel, to talk about hair loss, alopecia, and the root-cause factors that may be contributing to thinning, shedding, and poor…
- #332: Thyroid Symptoms But Normal Labs? Here's What to Look At Next with Dr. Elena Genik
In this episode of The Core Connections Podcast, Erica Ziel sits down with Dr. Elena Genik to talk all about thyroid health, including the difference between hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, Hashimoto's vs. Graves' disease, why TSH alon…
- Fascia & Pain: Why Less Intensity = Better Results
In this solo episode, Erica breaks down how fascia influences pain—and why gentle, consistent work often creates better (and longer-lasting) relief than intense release methods. You'll learn why "less is more," how smaller ranges of motion…
- #330 Why Midlife Weight Loss Stops Working (Even When Labs Are "Normal") with Shay Pascale
Midlife weight loss can feel impossible — especially when you're doing "everything right" and your labs look normal. In this episode, Erica sits down with Shay Pascale to break down what actually drives sustainable body composition in midl…
- #329 Strength Training & Pelvic Floor: Why Breath Matters More Than Bracing
If you or your clients leak, feel pelvic pressure, or struggle with back pain during strength training — this conversation is for you. In this Core Connections podcast interview, Erica Ziel sits down with Pilates instructor and powerlifter…
- #328: Peptides Explained: Healing, Weight Loss & Hormone Support with Dr. Kela Smith
Peptides are everywhere — but are they actually safe, effective, and necessary? In this episode of Core Connections, I'm joined by Dr. Kela Smith, functional medicine practitioner and founder of the Hormone Puzzle Society, to break down th…
- #327: Burnout: How Cortisol, Minerals, and Digestion Affect Weight & Energy with Monika Eva
If you're eating well, exercising consistently, and still struggling with fatigue, stubborn weight, and burnout — this episode is for you. In this episode of Core Connections, Erica Ziel sits down with Monika Eva, Hormone Nutritionist, to…
- #326 Pelvic Floor Health: 5 Myths That Could Be Holding You Back
04:30 - Understand what your pelvic floor actually is 08:42 Myth Busting: Incontinence and Pelvic Floor Issues 10:28 The Kegel Controversy 15:02 The Importance of Breath in Pelvic Health 21:58 Hip Tightness and Its Connection to the Pelvic…
- #325: Hidden Connection Between Your Spine & Nervous System Regulation with Dr. Veronica Schiltz
Learn how nervous system regulation impacts energy, pain, posture, stress, pregnancy, and healing. Erica Ziel interviews Dr. Veronica Schiltz on gentle, nervous system–focused chiropractic care and long-term wellness. 00:00 – Welcome & why…
- #324: Cracking the Code to Infertility: A Functional Medicine Approach with Dr. Stephanie Gray
Infertility is on the rise, and it's becoming a crisis that affects more couples than ever before. In this eye-opening episode of the Core Connections podcast, I sat down with Dr. Stephanie Gray to discuss her 10-year infertility journey a…
- #323 Top Tips for Healthy Living in 2026
Modern life asks a lot of women—our energy, our attention, our nervous systems. In this episode of my Core Connections Podcast , I share a high-level but deeply practical approach to building a healthier lifestyle by starting where it matt…
- What 92% of Diets Miss About Lasting Weight Loss With Holly Bertone
I'm THRILLED to have today's guest back on the podcast! I sat down with Holly Bertone—certified health coach, speaker, and author—to dive into the truth about lasting weight loss. This isn't just an episode about shedding pounds; it's abou…
- How to Navigate Postpartum Challenges and Anxiety with Julia Kim
The journey through pregnancy and postpartum recovery is deeply personal for me…My career is dedicated to helping prenatal and postpartum women heal their bodies and feel empowered. I KNEW the pain and dysfunction many believed were inevit…
- How to Bring Homeopathy into Your Home with Paola Brown
She's worked on creating life-changing educational tools (think: homeopathy curriculum for moms). Paola Brown , a passionate advocate for natural health and generational wellness, has found success with homeopathy because of one singular p…
- Pain, Stress, and Pregnancy: Rewiring Your System Through Acupuncture with Dr. Haley Parker
Have you ever had something, someone, or even just a conversation light a FIRE in you? It's as if every nerve in your being is telling you, 'Hey, this might be the missing piece you've been looking for that you need to try now—okay?' Well,…
- She Aligns the Body, Starting with the Feet
Welcome to your deep dive into body alignment. Oh yes, today, this conversation starts with the feet, but more importantly… It explores how everything in the body is integrated, working together to create stability and power. (Can you tell…
- Back from a Break: Building the Future of Fitness Training
Ready to learn what I've been up to, how it impacts you, and what it means for the future of fitness as I share personal insights from my podcast break? GOOD. As exciting, raw, and eye-opening as these conversations can be, I record them s…
- How You Can Relieve Tight Hamstrings Through Strengthening
Movement Observation: Tight hamstrings are often a result of weakness, not strength. Lemme explain—better yet—lemme give you an example… When you get done with a long run or walk, your hamstrings feel incredibly tight. You might think it's…
- How to Break Free from Painful Movement and Start Trusting Your Body When You're Afraid to Move
Do you ever go to move and notice your body resisting the movement? Almost like your body put the brakes on and was like, "Woooah, I don't know if I like this movement." Let me tell you why this is happening: your past experiences are shap…
- Healthy Kids, Happy Kids: How to Use Integrative Strategies for Better Health Outcomes with Dr. Elisa Song
Have you ever wondered what truly drives your child's health and wellness? (like using integrative strategies over conventional?) Because I have… In fact, that's just one of the many, MANY reasons I couldn't wait to have this conversation…
- Unlocking Skin and Gut Health Secrets Dr. William Davis
Can I be real with you for a moment? I mean, you listen to the podcast already so I know you and I are virtual friends. Okay, here I go: I'd rather nourish my body from within than rely on quick-fix solutions that don't last. And that's th…
- The BEST Strategies to Overcome Setbacks with Sean-Michael Doty
This is going to be hard for you to hear… Setbacks are invaluable opportunities for growth and development as you step towards success. (Yelling this from the rooftops!!) As a pre and postnatal exercise specialist who helps women heal thei…
- Finding Acceptance in Your Diagnosis to Heal with Megan Evans
Wanna know the most important element in healing a diagnosis or symptom? … Acceptance. … And then it's befriending it. … And then it's communicating with it. Here's the thing: I know (I know, I know) that acceptance FEELS very challenging……
- STOP Doing Crunches to Strengthen Your Core
Harsh reality: Crunches are doing more harm than good. That's not what you're used to hearing, is it? But the good news is that there's a better way to strengthen your core. (Just like anything else with movement, eh?) And because I truly…
- The Mindset to Embrace When Prioritizing Movement Postpartum with Amber Marker
There's something we must do when healing postpartum. Shift our mindset about movement and results. Here's the deal: as new mothers, we find ourselves juggling countless responsibilities while neglecting our own well-being. That said, prio…
- MTHFR and Pregnancy: What Women Need to Know with Dr. Ricardo Miranda
Can you imagine unraveling the mysteries of your health with just a simple genetic test? (Yes, it IS possible!) This actually happened to clients Dr. Ricardo Miranda (aka the "pioneer of MTHFR genetic mutation research" and CEO of MTHFRdoc…
- How Pilates Relieves Back Pain
Ladies, her jaw was on the FLOOR. No back pain? After one Pilates session? It all started when I was in college, I became a certified Pilates instructor and witnessed how movement can heal the body... I then moved to California where I stu…
- True Stories about Bravery to Live Courageously with Gina Gallaun
Are you ready to let go of fearful thoughts and approach life with bravery and courage? (yes or yesss?) Grab your drink of choice and settle in – the stories and insights shared on this episode just might change your life. In this episode,…
- How to Optimize Hormonal Health and Embrace Spiritual Mindsets with Dr. Tabatha Barber
Real talk: Hormonal health and weight management may feel like an uphill battle...but do you believe it's possible for YOU? If not, it's time to start. And you can do this by looking at your symptoms (such as weight gain) not as a sign of…
- Overcoming Mental Health Struggles and Building Neurological Resilience with Dr. Dawn Kingston
If you've struggled with mental health and have experienced anxiety or depression during pregnancy or postpartum, this episode is for you. I got reconnected with the magical, sensible human that is Dr. Dawn Kingston (if you haven't yet lis…
- How to Safely Detoxify Your Body with Saunas
Wanna know how to ENHANCE your health and well-being? Sauna sessions. Opening my new Pilates studio , led me to reflect on the vital role saunas played in my life like combating mold toxicity, improving cellular function, and optimizing my…
- Addressing Anxiety: Foot Zoning and Energy Frequencies with Heidi McKay
Have you ever wondered how to address anxiety holistically? There's obviously many factors, but here's one not talked about enough: foot zoning and understanding energy frequencies within our bodies. Anxiety, often a blanket term for a myr…
- Learning about IV Therapy with Amanda Kramme
I'm thrilled to share the latest episode of Core Connections with you! I had the pleasure of connecting with my dear friend and owner of vIVid Mobile IV, Amanda Kramme. Next week we'll be dropping an episode about ozempic® that I can't wai…
- Strengthening Abs Post-C-Section: What No One Talks About
"Erica, what are the best exercises for your abs after having a C-Section?" Ahh, a question I've gotten countless times since I started Knocked-Up Fitness in 2012. And this might come as a surprise…but the answer doesn't have to do with yo…
- How to Unblock Your Lymphatic System with Dr. Setare Taabodi
She got food poisoning… which triggered autoimmune conditions. She went looking for answers through conventional medicine… and got none. She learned how to reverse chronic illness symptoms through natural medicine… and was completely off m…
- How to Naturally Boost Immunity during the Winter
Wanna know how to better your resistance to illness? Boost your immunity. As a mom of three, boosting and supporting your immune system will help you maintain your overall well-being, allowing you to be more resilient against common illnes…
- What to Do When You're Experiencing Coning during Pregnancy
'Is coning during pregnancy normal?' 'Could I have prevented this? What exercises can I do to reduce this.' 'Why am I experiencing it this pregnancy after addressing it last pregnancy?' These are the questions that came to the surface when…
- Actions You Should Take NOW to Optimize Hormones for Longevity with Dr. Stephanie Gray
Have you felt like you had no control of your hormones? Like no matter how much you try to do/learn/test/research things just... never get better. And even though this is common amongst women, it doesn't make it any less frustrating. Does…
- How to Prevent Losing Height by Nourishing Your Bones
Do you ever fear the loss of height as you age? If so, you're not alone. Losing inches can make you feel…well, helpless. But, I often hear women say that they are told that shrinking is a NORMAL and UNCONTROLLABLE part of getting older in…
- How to Manage Hypermobility for a Healthier You with Dr. Aaron Hartman
"Connective tissue connects everything..." That's what functional medicine doctor and Connective Detective (coined from his wife) continued to say as I asked him questions about hypermobility, related conditions, and solutions. The answer…
- I'm Opening a Pilates Wellness Studio: Here's What Pilates Taught Me about the Body
Have you ever had a big dream that you've always wanted to achieve? You know, the ones that burn in your soul and linger in the back of your mind? The ones that push you to keep going because it's getting you closer to them being REALITY.…
- How to Keep Children Healthy at Daycare and School with Jill Rowe
Do you ever feel like your family is always sick? In this episode with Jill Rowe , we didn't shy away from the hard conversations. Jill and I discussed chemical fragrances, air quality in schools, ways to boost children's immune function,…
- Creating Space Conversations, Part 3: How Posture Impacts Your Health (and Ways to Improve It!)
Posture can be detrimental to your health and your body. I don't say that to scare you or to add more to your to-do list or to be dramatic. I say that so you can bring awareness to your movement patterns and habits throughout your day to i…
- Creating Space Conversations, Part 2: Using Breathwork for Pain and Stress Relief
Have you ever wondered how you can create more space in your body? There's obviously a few factors as you heard in Part 1 of our Creating Space Conversations series, but here's a big one: prioritizing a breathwork and visualization practic…
- Creating Space Conversations, Part 1: How to Improve Strength through Movement
How do you feel when you hear the term "movement"? I'm guessing that you feel one of two ways. Anxious thinking about changes as you're stepping outside of your comfort zone. Excited at the thought of progress and positive change. And eith…
- How to Get Your Newborn to Sleep Better with Kim West
Ok, ok, so if you listened to my recent conversation with Kim ( Episode 282: The System You Need for Toddler Sleep Training with Kim West ), you might have asked yourself: At what age should I start sleep training my child? In other words:…