In this powerful episode, Dr. Kelly Casperson sits down with James Swanwick, alcohol-free advocate and entrepreneur, to unravel the truth about alcohol's impact on our health, relationships, and society. With 15 years of alcohol-free living under his belt, James shares how choosing not to drink isn’t about loss—it's about liberation.
Together, they explore the deeply ingrained cultural narratives that glamorize alcohol and the neuroscience behind why our brains keep reaching for that next drink. From celebrity endorsements to outdated health myths, James and Kelly challenge the illusion that alcohol equals a good life.
This conversation is packed with truth bombs, science, and personal insight into why being alcohol-free can unlock clarity, presence, and purpose—especially for high achievers and anyone craving a more fulfilling life.
What You'll Learn:
Why “alcohol-free” is a powerful choice—not a limitation
How cultural conditioning has normalized drinking from a young age
The truth about alcohol and brain degeneration
The real story behind alcohol and heart health myths
How dopamine drives alcohol cravings
The link between alcohol and dementia, anxiety, and relational breakdowns
Why more high performers are choosing sobriety for clarity and focus
How to confidently navigate social events without alcohol
The role of community in embracing a sober-curious or alcohol-free lifestyle
Why societal change around alcohol is already happening
Key Takeaways:
Alcohol-free is a choice, not a lamentation.
No amount of alcohol is beneficial for your health.
Drinking can disrupt relationships, performance, and mental clarity.
Alcohol is a drug—marketed as a reward but loaded with consequences.
Society is slowly waking up to the truth: we don’t need alcohol to celebrate, connect, or succeed.
Resources & Links:
Learn more about James Swanwick and his alcohol-free programs at jamesswanwick.com
Clear book by James Swanwick
To learn more about GennaMD by Solv Wellness, visit gennaMD.com for 20% off your first order. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5. Providers can request patient education materials or samples at gennaMDHCP.com.
Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.https://www.joinmidi.com
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53:42
315. BONUS - Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause Guidelines released today!
Late Breaking news today! Now we have guidelines!
Thanks to Dr. Rachel Rubin for coming on IG to do this live with me!
AUA GSM Guidelines
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31:01
314. High Functioning Depression
In this powerful and deeply personal episode of You're Not Broken, Dr. Kelly Casperson is joined by psychiatrist Dr. Judith Joseph to unpack the complex relationship between trauma, high-functioning depression, and the systemic challenges facing both patients and providers in healthcare.
Dr. Joseph shares her unique career journey from anesthesiology to psychiatry—a shift fueled by the pursuit of deeper fulfillment and connection. Drawing from her new book High Functioning, she explores how trauma can show up in unexpected ways: perfectionism, strained relationships, and even the culture of medicine itself.
Together, Dr. Joseph and Dr. Casperson dive into the mental health crisis within the medical profession, the difference between complex PTSD and traditional PTSD, and why trauma-informed care must become the standard in healthcare. They highlight the need for preventative mental health care and why joy—not just happiness—is vital to healing.
Key Takeaways:
Dr. Judith Joseph’s new book High Functioning explores hidden depression and the masks people wear.
A desire for deeper meaning and purpose sparked her transition from anesthesiology to psychiatry.
Trauma can subtly impact daily life, relationships, and career satisfaction.
Complex PTSD differs from traditional PTSD and requires a nuanced approach.
Perfectionism may be a trauma response rooted in avoidance and fear.
Many healthcare professionals operate with unresolved trauma, often unacknowledged and invalidated.
The medical system itself can contribute to both patient and provider trauma.
High-functioning depression is widespread but often misunderstood or overlooked.
Preventative mental health care is crucial—waiting for a crisis is not sustainable.
Joy is a core component of mental health, not a luxury or afterthought.
Understanding one’s own trauma can make you a more effective and empathetic clinician.
Identifying and naming emotions can be profoundly therapeutic.
Self-care and setting boundaries are necessary acts of preservation, not selfishness.
https://www.instagram.com/drjudithjoseph/
High Functioning Book by Dr. Joseph
https://drjudithjoseph.com/
Sedona in October - only five slots left: https://www.ascendretreats.com/menopause-and-sexual-health-2025
Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life"
Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed
Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:
My Website
Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Waitlist is open
To learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 20% off your first order. For an additional $5 off Via, use coupon code DRKELLY5.
Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.
Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.
https://www.joinmidi.com
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52:00
313. My Microbiome Made Me Do it
In this enlightening episode of You Are Not Broken, Dr. Kelly Casperson sits down with Dr. Steven Gundry, renowned cardiothoracic surgeon turned gut health advocate. Dr. Gundry shares the personal and professional journey that led him from the operating room to the forefront of nutritional science. He breaks down the concept of leaky gut and how it contributes to autoimmune diseases, emphasizing how dietary changes can radically transform health outcomes.
Together, Dr. Gundry and Dr. Casperson dive into the deep connection between gut health and mental health, the underrated power of vitamin D, and the hidden dangers lurking in our food supply and personal care products. They also tackle the pharmaceutical industry's influence on medical training and why it’s time for a paradigm shift in how we understand disease and wellness.
If you've ever wondered how your gut impacts everything from anxiety to skin health—or why your mouthwash might be raising your blood pressure—this episode is for you.
Top Takeaways:
Dr. Gundry left a thriving surgical career after witnessing remarkable patient healing through nutrition.
Leaky gut is a real, measurable condition that drives many autoimmune disorders.
Genetics are less impactful than lifestyle, behavior, and environmental factors.
Whole food diets can reverse chronic illness and improve quality of life.
The gut microbiome plays a central role in immunity, skin health, and brain function.
Modern agriculture and personal care products can damage the microbiome.
Vitamin D is a foundational nutrient for both gut and mental health.
Gut health is deeply tied to emotional states like anxiety and depression.
Mouthwash can disrupt the oral microbiome and raise blood pressure.
Probiotics and prebiotics are helpful—but only when used with care and intention.
We must become more aware of what we eat, apply, and ingest daily.
Personalized medicine is the next frontier in optimizing gut health.
https://www.instagram.com/drstevengundry/
The Gut Brain Paradox - Releases April 15th
https://gundrymd.com/
Sedona in October - only three slots left: https://www.ascendretreats.com/menopause-and-sexual-health-2025
Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life"
Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed
Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:
My Website
Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Waitlist is open
To learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 20% off your first order. For an additional $5 off Via, use coupon code DRKELLY5.
Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.
Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.
https://www.joinmidi.com
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53:18
312. The Pleasure Prescription: Vibrators
In this episode of the You Are Not Broken podcast, Dr. Kelly Casperson sits down with Lara Pack, founder of Elixir Play, to explore why it’s time to take vibrators seriously—as both a pleasure tool and a legitimate part of women’s health.
Lara opens up about her personal journey from navigating painful sex due to endometriosis to creating a high-quality vibrator company focused on thoughtful design and real-world results. Together, they unpack the stigma still surrounding female pleasure, how cultural and religious messaging shapes our understanding of sexuality, and why quality matters more than price when it comes to vibrators.
They also dive into:
The surprising interest from men in women's pleasure products
Challenges with big-name companies entering the vibrator market
The role of communication in improving sexual wellness
Why research matters when it comes to vibrators and health outcomes
How well-designed pleasure products can meet diverse needs
This conversation is a must-listen for anyone ready to challenge outdated norms, elevate the discussion around women's pleasure, and embrace vibrators as a powerful tool for healing, connection, and empowerment.
🎯 Health & Wellness
Vibrators can play a significant role in women's health and wellness.
Research shows vibrators can improve pelvic health.
The experience of using a vibrator is both psychological and physiological.
There is a need for more studies on the health benefits of vibrators.
✨ Personal Empowerment & Stigma
Lara’s journey to creating Elixir Play was influenced by her own pain and stigma.
Many customers share stories of healing and empowerment through vibrator use.
Empowering women to explore their pleasure supports overall well-being.
Education is essential for breaking down sexual health and pleasure stigma.
Cultural and religious backgrounds shape perceptions of sexuality and pleasure.
Stigmas often stem from concerns about male partners' feelings.
🛠 Product Quality & Industry Insight
Quality and customer service are crucial in the vibrator industry.
Investing in well-designed products enhances the experience of pleasure.
Big companies often prioritize profit over product quality and authenticity.
Designing pleasure products should consider individual anatomy and preferences.
💬 Communication & Shifting Perspectives
Communication about pleasure is key to sexual satisfaction.
Vibrators can enhance sexual experiences for both partners.
A growing number of men are purchasing vibrators, showing a shift in attitudes toward women's pleasure.
The conversation around female pleasure is evolving but still faces barriers.
Understanding the science of pleasure helps destigmatize its use.
http://elixirplay.com/ and use code NOTBROKEN20 for 20% off.
Sedona in October - only five slots left: https://www.ascendretreats.com/menopause-and-sexual-health-2025
Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life"
Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed
Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:
My Website
Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Waitlist is open
To learn more about Via vaginal moisturizer from Solv Wellness, visit via4her.com for 20% off your first order. For an additional $5 off Via, use coupon code DRKELLY5.
Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.
Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.
https://www.joinmidi.com
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Empowering women (and the partners who love them) to live their best mid lives. Combining the power of mind-work, body-science and relationships, I joyously smash the societal barriers that are keeping us from living our best intimate lives. Whether you are young or past menopause, single or in a long-term relationship, it is never too late or too early to realize YOU ARE NOT BROKEN. With humor, candor and ease, I break down the stories that we have been told about being sexual beings, to help us play, and normalize our intimacy and health. Nothing in this podcast is personal medical advice, of course.
Ireland