In this week’s episode of Soft Focus, I’m joined by Dr. Erin Borbet—licensed acupuncturist, herbalist, and doula—for a nourishing conversation on women’s hormone health from a Traditional Chinese Medicine perspective.

Together, we explore what it means to live with our cycles rather than in resistance to them. Erin shares how TCM views the phases of a woman’s life—menstruation, fertility, perimenopause, and menopause and beyond—not as problems to be fixed, but as sacred windows of transformation and renewal. We talk about how the energetics of food, the importance of rest, and simple, seasonal practices can deeply support hormonal balance and long-term vitality.

We also discuss the difference between protein and good protein, and why quality and energetics matter so much when it comes to nourishing a woman’s body. Erin offers gentle insight into the all-too-common state of running on fumes in midlife, and how we can begin to restore from a place of wisdom and rhythm, rather than depletion and force.

This conversation is both grounding and illuminating—a reminder that the answers we’re seeking are often already within us, waiting to be remembered.

In this episode, we explore:

• How Traditional Chinese Medicine understands women’s hormonal health
• Why seasonal and cyclical living supports balance and energy
• The importance of good protein and food energetics in nourishment
• How to support yourself in fertility, perimenopause, and midlife
• The cost of pushing against our hormonal rhythms—and what’s possible when we stop
• The role of herbs, rest, and ritual in long-term vitality

Connect with Dr. Erin Borbet
erinborbet.com

Sponsored by BloomBoxes from Late Bloomer Ranch

Fuel your family's meals with purpose! Our BloomBoxes deliver ethically-raised, nourishing pork directly to your doorstep. Every box is a statement of support for regenerative, community-focused farming. Use code SOFTFOCUS15 for 15% off your order!

Your voice matters. After listening, we'd love to hear your thoughts:

• Subscribe to The Soft Focus Podcast
• Leave a review
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Connect with us:

hello@latebloomerranch.com

IG@latebloomerranch

Together, we can cultivate a future where food connects, nourishes, and empowers.

Imagine a world where food isn't just a commodity, but a connection to community, sustainability, and hope. In this powerful episode, we're diving deep into the heart of America's food system with Austin Frerick, author of Barons: Money, Power, and the Corruption of America's Food Industry.

Meet Austin Frerick: Champion of Food Justice

More than just an author, Austin is a passionate advocate for transforming our agricultural landscape. His groundbreaking book Barons isn't just research—it's a rallying cry for anyone who believes that how we grow our food matters. Critically acclaimed by Publishers Weekly and Kirkus Reviews, his work shines a light on the hidden stories behind our food systems.

Inside the Conversation: What You'll Discover

This episode is a must-listen for anyone who:

• Cares about where their food comes from
• Wants to support small farmers
• Believes in building stronger, more resilient communities
• Seeks to understand the real story behind our food supply

We'll explore:

• The personal journey that inspired Barons
• How big corporations are reshaping farming in rural communities
• The truth behind agricultural "efficiency"
• Practical ways to support local food systems
• Strategies for rural economic resilience

Why This Matters to You

As farmers, mothers, community builders, and conscientious consumers, we have the power to create change. Austin's insights offer a roadmap for reimagining agriculture—not just as an industry, but as a vital part of our shared community ecosystem.

Sponsored by BloomBoxes from Late Bloomer Ranch

Fuel your family's meals with purpose! Our BloomBoxes deliver ethically-raised, nourishing pork directly to your doorstep. Every box is a statement of support for regenerative, community-focused farming.

Together, we can cultivate a future where food connects, nourishes, and empowers.

Your voice matters. After listening, we'd love to hear your thoughts:

• Subscribe to The Soft Focus Podcast
• Leave a review
• Share your insights

Connect with us:

hello@latebloomerranch.com

IG@latebloomerranch

Together, we can cultivate a future where food connects, nourishes, and empowers.

Welcome back to Soft Focus! Today, we’re diving into winter garden planning—ensuring a thriving, resilient harvest for 2025. Whether you're a beginner or seasoned gardener, these expert strategies from Late Bloomer Ranch and my kitchen gardens will set you up for success.

Though it’s winter, now is the ideal time to prepare your garden. Strategic planning now leads to a bountiful harvest, so let’s explore essential steps for a productive growing season.

What You’ll Learn:

• Many gardeners overestimate their capacity, buying too many seeds and planting more than they can maintain.
• A well-thought-out garden plan creates a manageable, efficient, and enjoyable growing experience.
• Understanding your USDA zone, frost dates, and latitude ensures proper timing and crop selection.
• Prioritize growing food you love and will actually eat for a rewarding and practical harvest.
• Companion planting enhances biodiversity, attracts pollinators, and naturally deters pests.
• Herbs and flowers provide culinary, medicinal, and ecological benefits while beautifying your space.
• Seasonal experimentation allows for adaptation, learning, and long-term garden success.
• Short growing seasons benefit from techniques like indoor seed starting, row covers, and succession planting.
• Latitude affects plant performance, so selecting region-appropriate varieties is key.
• Whether gardening in containers, raised beds, or a homestead, intentional planning leads to optimal yields.

This episode was brought to you by Late Bloomer Ranch. Be sure to check our farm-raised yarn, flower essences, and BloomBoxes available to ship in the continental USA.

Your voice matters. After listening, we'd love to hear your thoughts:

• Subscribe to The Soft Focus Podcast
• Leave a review
• Share your insights

Connect with us:

hello@latebloomerranch.com

IG@latebloomerranch

Together, we can cultivate a future where food connects, nourishes, and empowers.