The Plant Medicine For PTSD Podcast

15. Hormonal Health in PTSD, TBI & Operator Syndrome Recovery with Dr. Taylor Bosley

Dr. David Zwoboda

PTSD and TBI often get framed as purely psychological issues, but hormone levels can tell a different story - one that often gets overlooked entirely, or is severely mismanaged. 

In this episode, Green Beret and double-board-certified physician Dr. Taylor Bosley breaks down how repeated brain stress can disrupt the HPA axis, why symptoms get misread, and why “just take testosterone bro” is completely the wrong move. 

We dig into what a thoughtful hormone workup looks like, how to vet a provider, and how effective management is both an art and a science. 

If you’ve dealt with trauma (whether through combat, work, or normal life), this episode will give you a more clear framework to understand this complicated topic, ask better questions and avoid common dead ends.

We cover:
 • How brain injuries can derail endocrine signaling and show up as mood, energy, and sleep issues
 • “Operator syndrome” patterns and why one-size-fits-all protocols backfire
 • How to find a doctor to help you and where to begin with treatment
 • What happens in menopause, how we can mitigate symptoms & outdated misconceptions about risk
 • What lifestyle changes you need to make to have the best effect

Links to books mentioned:
 • Operator Syndrome by Chris Frueh
Estrogen Matters by Avrum Bluming and Carol Tavris
The New Menopause by Mary Claire Haver


 You can find more info on Dr. Bosley’s practice, Precision Wellness Group at their website here, or connect on IG here.


Recommended Lab Panels

Dr. Bosley recommends the following lab panels be tested to establish your baseline and investigate hormone-related health considerations. Work with a qualified clinician to determine what’s appropriate for you and always consult a qualified medical profession before any treatment. 

Women — Baseline Panel:
 • CBC
 • CMP w/ GFR
 • Estradiol (E2)
 • FSH
 • Testosterone (Free & Total w/ SHBG)
 • T3, Free
 • Thyroid Peroxidase Abs
 • TSH
 • CRP, HS
 • DHEA-Sulfate
 • Hemoglobin A1C
 • Vitamin B12
 • Vitamin D, 25-OH, Total

Men — Baseline Panel:
 • CBC
 • CMP w/ GFR
 • T3, Free
 • Testosterone (Free & Total w/ SHBG)
 • Thyroid Peroxidase Abs
 • TSH
 • CRP, HS
 • DHEA-Sulfate
 • Hemoglobin A1C
 • Vitamin B12
 • Vitamin D, 25-OH, Total
 • PSA, Total w/ Reflex to Free PSA

The contents of this episode are for educational & entertainment purposes only and are not medical, legal, or mental-health advice. We do not diagnose, treat, or guarantee outcomes. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes. 

Thanks again for listening!

Enrollment is open right now for the 2026 Operation FlowState Jiu Jitsu & Healing Retreat.

Spaces are limited due to the small size of the retreat center and spots are already more than 75% filled.

Visit becomingom.org/flowstate for all the info and to submit an application.

Or for info on our online healing programs, DM us the word INFO on Instagram.