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Itchy and Bitchy

Karen Nickell

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Nurse practitioner Karen Nickell discusses the realities of menopause and the female midlife in a way that is both informative and fun. Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
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"Chicken soup for the dark night of the soul. Heir apparent to the throne of Vincent Price and Boris Karloff, Bill Oberst Jr. does far more than just read spooky stories. He invites you on a thoughtful, dark journey with warmth and sophistication. Do yourself a favor and subscribe." (Apple Podcasts Review)
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Welcome to The Lisbon Expat Show, where we explore the unique journeys, challenges, and triumphs of expats who have made Lisbon their home. Each episode features in-depth conversations with individuals from around the world, sharing their personal stories of adapting to life in Portugal. From career changes and cultural adaptation to navigating local communities and finding a sense of belonging, our guests offer valuable insights and advice for anyone considering the expat life. Whether you' ...
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Karen tackles a listener question about low-dose lithium. She reviews micro- vs. low-dose ranges, discusses forms like lithium orotate/aspartate and third-party-tested supplement options, and flags safety essentials such as toxicity symptoms, thyroid/kidney considerations, and when to loop in your clinician. Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to …
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In this update to the August 2024 episode, Karen explains the surge of direct-to-consumer “whole-body” MRI/CT screenings and how to decide with your provider whether they’re a good fit. In the re-aired episode, Karen explores the Galleri test, a multi-cancer early detection (MCED) blood test that can identify over 50 types of cancer. She explains h…
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Karen demystifies the popular skincare treatment known as microneedling. She explores how this minimally invasive procedure stimulates collagen and elastin production to improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, and help with scars and stretch marks. She compares professional treatments with at-home devices, explains the pros and cons of each, and pro…
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Karen tackles the puffy eye predicament that's turning well-rested people into walking advertisements for concealer. From the cruel reality of aging to your body's dramatic reaction to that late-night pizza binge, Karen breaks down the reasons your under-eyes are staging their own little rebellion. Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog …
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Karen tackles the surprising link between GLP-1 medication (like Ozempic and Wegovy) and hair loss. As more people turn to these drugs for diabetes and weight management, some are left wondering: is the price of shedding pounds also shedding your hair? Karen explores possible causes behind this side effect, including rapid weight loss, nutritional …
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Karen shares potentially life-saving advice for staying safe in extreme heat as record-breaking temperatures sweep across the country. She explains how heat exhaustion and heat stroke develop, how to recognize early warning signs, and what to do if you or someone else is affected. Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many …
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Karen unpacks the hype surrounding methylene blue, a vivid cobalt dye that's gained popularity as a trendy wellness supplement. From its historical use as a textile dye and medical treatment to modern claims about boosting brain power, energy, and longevity, Karen breaks down what the science actually says—and what it doesn’t. With potential risks …
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Karen breaks down the growing trend of face taping as a non-invasive approach to reducing wrinkles and lifting sagging skin. She explains the difference between aesthetic taping for red carpet-ready lift and overnight wrinkle patches like Frownies that aim to retrain facial muscles. Karen walks listeners through product options, techniques, and saf…
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Karen breaks down the benefits of precursor hormones—specifically pregnenolone and DHEA—for those who struggle with traditional hormone replacement therapy. She explains how these naturally occurring compounds support the production of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, and how they may offer relief from symptoms like brain fog, fatigue, sle…
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Karen addresses the troubling rise in early-onset cancers among adults under 50, particularly women. Drawing on the latest research, she discusses contributing factors—from delayed screenings and family history to gut health, environmental exposures, and systemic inflammation. Karen also highlights how current healthcare gaps, lifestyle factors, an…
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Karen welcomes Donna White, a leading expert in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) with over 30 years of experience. They discuss the myths and truths about hormone therapy, the critical role of proper testing and individualized treatment plans, and how BHRT can drastically improve quality of life for women in menopause and beyond. Don…
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Karen unpacks the surprising connection between hormones and the human voice—especially for singers. Drawing from her dual background in opera and medicine, she explains how hormonal shifts throughout the menstrual cycle can impact vocal quality, flexibility, and range. Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we h…
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Send us a text “Violetta Melnychuk is a passionate tour guide based in Lisbon, offering visitors an immersive experience of the city’s rich history and culture. With her deep love for Lisbon and its hidden gems, Violetta expertly navigates tourists through the city’s iconic landmarks and lesser-known treasures, sharing fascinating stories and insig…
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Karen shares how a friend's breast cancer diagnosis became a powerful example of self-advocacy in action. From discovering she didn’t need chemotherapy after requesting additional testing, to researching scalp cooling treatments and skin protection during radiation, this story highlights how knowledge and persistence can lead to better care. Visit …
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Karen shares a powerful listener story about self-advocacy in healthcare and how trusting your instincts can be lifesaving. After experiencing persistent symptoms that were initially dismissed by a doctor, this listener took charge of her health, sought a second opinion, and ultimately discovered a serious diagnosis. Visit our website itchyandbitch…
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Send us a text “Join us on the Lisbon Expat Show as we sit down with Maximilian, a German native now working for the United Nations in Lisbon. In this episode, Maximilian shares his journey from Germany to Portugal, his work with the UN, and the unique experiences of living as an expat in one of Europe’s most vibrant cities. Tune in for inspiring s…
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Send us a text In this episode of The Lisbon Expat Show, we chat with Nataliia, an energy healer, spiritual guide, originally from Ukraine. Having lived in China for nearly 12 years, Natalia’s journey to Lisbon was marked by the challenges of leaving her homeland amidst the war. She shares her insights on embracing change, finding peace within your…
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Karen continues her discussion on HPV, focusing on the types of cancers it can cause and the best prevention methods. She breaks down the staggering statistics on HPV-related cancers, explains why the virus can remain dormant for decades, and highlights the importance of screening and early detection. Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read bl…
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Send us a text In this episode of The Expat Lisbon Show, we welcome Isabel, a German-born mentor and spiritual entrepreneur dedicated to empowering ambitious professionals. Isabel is a 500+ Hour Certified Yoga Teacher, Social Anthropologist, and trauma-informed healer with expertise in EFT, Breathwork, Meditation, Somatic Healing, Qigong, and Ayurv…
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Karen unpacks the risks of HPV for women in their perimenopausal and menopausal years. She explains how the virus spreads, why it can re-emerge decades after initial exposure, and how hormonal and immune system changes impact its persistence. Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.…
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Send us a text “Today’s guest on The Lisbon Expat Show is Joiakim Salvo, a digital nomad from France who now calls Lisbon home. With a background in remote work and freelancing, Joaquim shares his journey of transitioning from France to Lisbon, embracing the digital nomad lifestyle, and navigating the unique blend of work and adventure that comes w…
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Karen explores the importance of iodine and how its deficiency can impact overall health. She discusses the essential role iodine plays in thyroid function, metabolism, and cognitive development, particularly in pregnant women. Karen explains why iodine deficiency is on the rise, how to test for it, and the best ways to ensure adequate intake throu…
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Send us a text Join us to meet Giselle Álvarez, an Argentine-born educator with over 25 years of experience teaching English and Spanish. After living in Spain for 15 years, she moved to Lisbon in 2018, where she now balances her role as Education Program Manager at „Lisbon Project Association“ with running her online language school, „The Institut…
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Send us a text Our guest, Laurence Sternberg, is a seasoned expat who has lived in Belgium, Spain, and Portugal. In this episode, she offers insightful conversations on topics like language learning, career transitions, and finding a sense of belonging. Laurence’s own journey—from her time at H&M and Airbnb to her current work with Locallista—provi…
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Karen explores the potential of UTI vaccines as an alternative to antibiotics for treating recurrent urinary tract infections. She explains how UTIs develop, why traditional antibiotic treatments often fail, and how vaccines work to boost the body's immune response. Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have …
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Send us a text “In this episode, I chat with Emilia Ronchetti, an Argentinean digital nomad who’s shifted from a successful corporate career in User Experience to helping others embrace their authentic selves. We dive into the mindset of an explorer, the challenges and rewards of being an expat, and how following your heart can lead to unexpected o…
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Send us a text Anas, a 29-year-old entrepreneur from Syria, has lived in five countries—Dubai, Vietnam, South Korea, Germany, and now Lisbon. He is the founder of a startup dedicated to creating and developing healthy food brands. Website: https://www.nutrilima.com/ Support the show Want to meet Us in a Live Event and have a chance to discuss with …
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Karen examines the use of kava supplements, exploring their potential benefits for anxiety and their serious risks, including liver toxicity. She highlights key studies on kava's effectiveness, explains its traditional use, and warns of its interactions with medications. She also shares a list of alternative supplements that have been shown to help…
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Send us a text In this Episode we meet Michelle Lawton. Living as an expat across multiple countries. From childhood in Abu Dhabi to adulthood in the US, Germany, and now Portugal, she shares the ups and downs of adjusting to new cultures. This podcast offers a mix of practical advice, heartfelt stories, and insights for anyone thinking about movin…
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Karen kicks off 2025 by examining the science behind New Year's resolutions. She explores why we make them, who is most likely to set goals for the new year, and the reasons resolutions often fail. She also shares practical tips for improving success rates, such as setting small, meaningful goals, using habit trackers, and practicing self-compassio…
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Karen settles the great debate: should you sleep with or without underwear? She explores the health benefits and potential drawbacks of both choices. From reducing the risk of infections to promoting vaginal health, she provides research-backed insights to help you make the best decision for your body. Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read b…
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Send us a text In this episode, we meet Abdulrahman, a 28-year-old expat from Yemen who has spent the past eight years exploring life and education across Türkiye, Portugal, Spain, and Italy. With a background in Chemical Engineering and a passion for cultural immersion, Abdulrahman shares his transformative journey of living abroad. He discusses w…
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Karen discusses the dangers of cold-related illnesses and how to stay safe during the winter months. She explains the causes, symptoms, and prevention strategies for conditions such as hypothermia, frostbite, chillblains, and trench foot. Learn practical tips for dressing warmly, avoiding prolonged exposure to cold, and recognizing early warning si…
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Send us a text Felipe Franzina, a entrepreneur passionate about creating a positive impact on people's health through a fair-trade approach. Join us as we delve into Felipe's journey of building startups, superfoods, and sustainability in the Amazon Rainforest. Discover how social entrepreneurship is reshaping communities and hear Felipe's insights…
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Karen addresses bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common vaginal infection that affects many women. She explains its symptoms, causes, and risk factors, while offering practical solutions for both treatment and prevention. From prescription antibiotics to boric acid suppositories and probiotics, Karen shares a comprehensive approach to managing recurrent…
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Send us a text In this episode of The Lisbon Expat Show, we meet Daryna, a Ukrainian expat whose journey blends her passion for beauty, psychology, and music. Starting her career as a manicurist, Daryna mastered the art of detail, which she now channels into her new love: DJing. Driven by a desire for safety and stability, she relocated to Portugal…
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Karen sheds light on iron deficiency anemia, covering its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. She explains the stages of anemia development, common risk factors, and how to recognize signs like fatigue, pale skin, and brittle nails. Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.…
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Send us a text In this episode of The Lisbon Expat Show, we sit down with an inspiring guest who was born in Israel and grew up in a multicultural city where Jews and Arabs lived together peacefully. With a diverse background in photography, social work, and facilitating men's circles, our guest shares his life story—from navigating love and heartb…
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Karen discusses hormone pellet therapy, one form of bioidentical hormone replacement that is designed to produce consistent, long-term hormone levels. She outlines how these tiny pellets are inserted under the skin and can be used to minimize the symptoms of menopause and hormone imbalance—exploring the benefits, possible side effects, and risks as…
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Send us a text In this episode, we sit down with Anastasia, a Ukrainian-born Data Scientist who has lived in Germany, the Netherlands, and Portugal. She shares her journey of leaving Ukraine in 2020 to seek new career opportunities and escape the impending war, and talks about her passion for her work, her love for nature and fitness, and her futur…
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Send us a text On this episode, we welcome a dynamic global nomad who hails from Munich, Germany. He’s a WordPress developer with a successful remote business, allowing him to travel and live across the world—from Lisbon to Mexico and Thailand. Passionate about human connection, fitness, and exploration, he shares his experiences navigating the dig…
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Karen takes on the topic of inositol supplements, particularly their benefits for managing metabolic and mood disorders. She explores the science behind inositol, a substance naturally found in the body, and how it can support insulin regulation and neurotransmitter balance. Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics…
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Send us a text "In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with James, a member of the British Army, who was visiting Lisbon during his holidays. We explored his experiences serving in the military, the unique perspective it brings, and his thoughts on taking a break in Portugal. James shared insightful stories from his time in the UK forces, …
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Karen answers the question: "What type of magnesium should I take if I decide to take a supplement?" She explains magnesium's essential role in health, touching on its benefits for brain, heart, and muscle function, and highlights the widespread issue of magnesium deficiency, often due to processed food diets. Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com t…
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Send us a text Meet Judy, a logistics technician and cargo supply chain auditor from Macaé, Rio/Brazil, now living in Lisbon. In this episode, Judy shares how the search for a better quality of life and personal security led her to Portugal. We dive into her career in logistics, her passion for exploring the world, and her new journey into digital …
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Karen covers the topic of estrogen loss during perimenopause and its effects on skin health, particularly facial skin. She explores how declining estrogen levels lead to reduced skin elasticity, collagen loss, and increased dryness, and discusses the benefits of using topical estrogen creams to counteract these effects. She also reviews the history…
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