Cortisol Isn't the Enemy: Why You're Tired But Wired and How to Overcome Exhaustion with Dr. Erin Kinney

0 plays · Sep 28, 2026

Is cortisol really the enemy? Or have we completely misunderstood this essential hormone? In this fascinating conversation, Dr. Erin Kinney breaks down what healthy cortisol should actually look like, how chronic stress can leave us stuck in a cycle of exhaustion, and the surprising signs that your nervous system may be dysregulated. We share our own burnout experiences as we explore the connections between cortisol, blood sugar, thyroid function, perimenopause, caffeine, intermittent fasting, and even fasted workouts. Dr. Kinney also reveals why multitasking, emotional suppression, and stealth infections can keep the body in stress mode—and what we can do to strengthen our “relax muscle.” If you’ve ever felt exhausted but wired, relied on caffeine to get through the day, or wondered why your body isn’t responding to all the “healthy” things you’re doing, this episode is a must-listen!

Dr. Erin Kinney is a Naturopathic Doctor, speaker, and podcast host who helps stressed-out patients balance their hormones, improve their mood, and restore their energy. She runs a private practice in Annapolis, Maryland, specializing in chronic health conditions related to hormonal and nervous-system imbalances, and has guided more than 7,000 people back to vibrant health through her clinic, workshops, retreats, and online programs. Outside of work, she loves spending time with her husband and their five children.

SHOW NOTES:

0:38 Welcome to the podcast!

3:27 About Dr. Erin Kinney

4:08 Welcome her to the show!

5:36 Why do we need cortisol?

7:55 Energy surplus vs deficit

10:26 A normal cortisol pattern

12:28 Cortisol crash & adrenaline

13:55 Perimenopause advice

14:30 Lauren & Renee’s burnout stories

16:06 Signs & symptoms of dysregulated cortisol

20:41 How to strengthen your relax muscle