If you’ve ever wondered why your body seems to react to everything—the foods you eat, the places you stay, even the “healthy” things you try—this episode is going to feel like a breath of fresh air.

On this week’s FASTer Way Podcast, CEO Amanda Tress sits down with Dr. Ann Shippy, a board-certified internal medicine physician turned functional medicine trailblazer, for a conversation that every woman with “mystery symptoms” needs to hear. From parasites and mold to detox sensitivity and fertility in your 30s and 40s, this episode connects the dots that standard medicine often misses.

It’s validating. Hopeful. And filled with those “ohhh…that finally makes sense” moments.

From IBM Engineer to Functional Medicine MD

Before she ever stepped into a clinic, Dr. Shippy was thriving as a chemical engineer at IBM. Then everything changed.

A trip abroad. A parasite no one caught. Undiagnosed celiac disease. And nine months of spiraling symptoms no doctor could explain.

Instead of settling for “we don’t know,” she did what so many women end up doing—she took ownership. She dove into research, went back to school at age 32, had two babies during med school and residency, and ultimately became the functional medicine physician she herself desperately needed.

Her story is a powerful reminder: it’s never too late to reinvent yourself or take back your health.

The Parasite Conversation No One Is Having

Parasites sound dramatic…but they’re far more common than most people realize. And here’s the kicker: the standard tests? They often don’t catch them.

Dr. Shippy breaks down why parasites can be so sneaky—and how they can disrupt digestion, nutrient absorption, weight balance, and overall inflammation.

Amanda opens up about her own parasite detox experience, too—the incredible week afterward where she slept better than she had in years, followed by a flare when her liver couldn’t keep up. If you’ve ever tried a detox and felt worse before you felt better (or never felt better at all), this part will make you feel seen.

This is the kind of conversation that finally explains why “doing all the right things” sometimes still doesn’t work.

Mold: The Hidden Trigger That Changes Everything

If you’ve ever struggled with chronic sinus issues, strange symptoms, or fatigue that just won’t quit…mold may be part of the story.

In the episode, Dr. Shippy shares how hidden mold in her home and office led to terrifying ALS-like symptoms—hair loss, weakness, and pain so intense even hugs hurt. Mold wasn’t just an allergy for her. It was a toxin storm.

She and Amanda talk about:

• Why mold reactions can vary wildly from person to person
• How mycotoxins can suppress the immune system and disrupt everything from mood to energy
• Why mold hides in places most people never think to test

And yes, Amanda shares her family’s experience too—including how her son’s health dramatically shifted once mold was remediated in his bedroom.

If you’ve suspected your environment might be affecting your health, this part will hit home.

Sensitive Bodies, Genetics & Stress Resilience

Some people can eat leftover chicken from two weeks ago and feel amazing. Others walk into the wrong hotel room and crash for a week.

Why?

Amanda and Dr. Shippy break down the genetics behind detox challenges, hyper-reactive immune systems, and why some bodies simply have a lower threshold for chronic exposures.

But instead of turning this into a doom-and-gloom conversation, they flip it into empowerment:

You’re not fragile—you’re simply wired to notice and respond faster. And with the right support, you can thrive.

They talk through the habits and gentle detox support that help build resilience—things like sauna, strategic supplementation, mitochondria support, and knowing when your body is whispering before it starts screaming.

It’s the kind of mindset shift that makes you feel capable again.

The Preconception Revolution (Even If You’re Not Trying to Conceive)

This might be one of the most surprising parts of the episode.

Dr. Shippy reveals why preparing your body before pregnancy can dramatically impact fertility, pregnancy health, and even baby’s long-term wellness. She’s helped women conceive naturally into their mid-40s, even after being told they “never would.”

And here’s the twist: men matter just as much.

She explains:

• Why sperm counts have dropped by more than half in 50 years
• How lifestyle, toxins, and nutrition influence sperm genetics
• Why 3–12 months of preconception care can transform outcomes

Even if you’re not having kids, the science is relevant: what supports fertility also supports energy, metabolism, hormone balance, and longevity.

Why This Episode Matters for YOU

This is one of those episodes you’ll think about long after it ends—especially if you’ve ever felt “too sensitive,” “hard to treat,” or misunderstood by traditional medicine.

You’ll walk away with:

• A clearer picture of why your body feels the way it does
• Practical ways to support detox gently
• Validation if you’ve been dismissed or brushed off
• Hope that your symptoms do have a root cause—and solutions

And most importantly?
You’ll feel less alone. And a whole lot more empowered.

🎧 Listen to the full episode on the FASTer Way Podcast.

‍

Listen to the full episode here on Spotify, Apple Podcasts or on your favorite platform—and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Apple Podcasts

Spotify

Youtube

Related Resources:

• Coach Confessional: Mold, Detox, Parasites & GLP-1 Controversies
• The Truth About Parasites, Mold & Why Your Health Might Be Hijacked (Even If You’re Doing Everything “Right”)
• Ready to Sweat Smarter? What Infrared Saunas Can Do for Your Hormones, Skin, Sleep + More

‍