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Episode 332 - HRV + Pregnancy
In this special compilation episode, we explore the evolving science of pregnancy, exercise, and recovery through conversations with two innovative voices in women’s health: Dr. Shon Rowan and Dr. Lindsey Mathews.
Dr. Shon Rowan, an OB-GYN and researcher, shares groundbreaking insights from his work studying heart rate variability (HRV) throughout pregnancy and postpartum. His findings reveal fascinating physiologic adaptations—including measurable changes in HRV and resting heart rate that begin almost immediately after conception, reverse in the weeks leading up to delivery, and may ultimately rebound postpartum to levels even higher than pre-pregnancy.
Dr. Lindsey Mathews, a Doctor of Chiropractic and prenatal movement specialist, offers practical guidance on how women can use HRV as a tool to better understand stress, recovery, and readiness—helping inform training intensity during pregnancy and postpartum in a way that honors the body’s changing needs.
Together, these conversations challenge outdated beliefs about pregnancy and exercise, highlight the incredible adaptability of the female body, and offer a more informed, empowering perspective on movement during one of life’s most transformative seasons.
In this episode, we discuss:
How HRV and resting heart rate change during pregnancy
Why postpartum HRV may exceed pre-pregnancy levels
Using HRV trends to guide training and recovery
Why pregnancy research has historically been limited
The future of wearable technology in women’s health
How exercise can support—not hinder—a healthy pregnancy and recoveryThe 5 Non-Negotiables for Fertility Health with Dr. Natalie Crawford
Natalie Crawford, MD is board certified in both Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility and is co-founder of Fora Fertility, a boutique fertility practice in Austin, Texas. Dr. Crawford is CEO and co-founder of Pinnacle, a professional network for women in medicine. She completed her undergraduate at Auburn University obtaining a degree in Nutrition Science, Medical School at UTMB, OBGYN Residency at UTSW, and REI Fellowship at UNC, concurrently obtaining a Master of Science in Clinical Research. Dr. Crawford is a digital health educator on social media, YouTube, and hosts the podcast “As a Woman” with over 6 million downloads. Her debut book, “The Fertility Formula”, will be released by Penguin Random House.
Follow Dr. Crawford on Instagram at @nataliecrawfordmd and check out her book, The Fertility Formula.Episode 330 - CrossFit Moms: Pregnancy, Postpartum, and Returning to Competition
In this special compilation, former CrossFit Games athletes Lindsey Valenzuela, Kara Saunders, Annie Thorisdottir, and Camille Leblanc-Bazinet share their experiences transitioning from elite competition to motherhood, and back again.
They discuss how training evolved before pregnancy, what changed during pregnancy, and how they approached postpartum recovery and return to performance. Enjoy this honest conversation about identity, expectations, and redefining strength as a mom.Episode 229 - What I Learned From Starting 100 Random Conversations
In this episode of Pursuing Health, I share what I learned from a year-long experiment of starting 100 conversations with strangers.
As an introvert, this challenge pushed me beyond fear, discomfort, and self-doubt.
I reflect on rejection, surprising moments of connection, and why first impressions rarely tell the full story.
This episode explores how helping others feel seen opens the door to real, meaningful connection. If you’ve ever wanted more connection but felt held back by fear, this episode is for you.