Emily sits down with Dr. Linden Will, optometrist and Director of Community Engagement at LASIK.com, for a candid, funny, and surprisingly eye-opening (pun intended) conversation about everything you've ever wanted to know about LASIK but were too scared to ask.

Emily shares her own experience getting LASIK done at LASIK Plus in Denver — consultation and procedure in the same day — and Linden demystifies the process from the doctor's side.

From debunking the "your prescription isn't stable enough" myth to breaking down the real cost comparison against a lifetime of contacts and glasses, this episode will have you seriously reconsidering why you're still fumbling for your glasses every morning.

Whether you've been putting it off for years or just never thought you were a candidate, this one's for you.

What we dig into:

• Why so many eye doctors don't refer patients to LASIK — it's not what you think (hint: it's not a conspiracy, it's just not taught in school)
• Breaking down the cost — why $4–5K upfront actually pencils out against a lifetime of dailies, contact fittings, and glasses, plus LASIK.com's $100/month payment plans and 0% interest options
• Emily's first-hand patient experience — consultation and procedure in the same day, being barely able to see without her negative six prescription, and comparing it favourably to unmedicated childbirth
• The biggest LASIK myths busted — astigmatism, age, pregnancy, breastfeeding, prescription changes, and the fear that the flap will move (spoiler: all laser LASIK locks it in place)

To learn more about Linden Will and Lasik check out Lasik.com. Visit lasik.com/socials and use code EMILY for $1,100 off.

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In this episode of The Second Degree Podcast, host Emily Merrell sits down with Melissa Nichols, founder of Reforming You, to unpack what women should have been taught about their health—but weren’t.

After spending years working in pharmaceuticals and clinical trials, Melissa made a bold pivot into Pilates, health coaching, and preventive wellness. Today, she helps women understand their bodies, balance their hormones, and take a proactive—not reactive—approach to health.

Together, Emily and Melissa explore:

• Why prevention matters more than waiting for a diagnosis
• How hormones quietly influence weight, energy, sleep, and mood
• Signs of hormone imbalance, perimenopause, and thyroid issues
• The truth about endocrine disruptors and everyday toxins
• Why stress is one of the most overlooked health risks for women
• How to advocate for yourself in the doctor’s office
• Simple lifestyle shifts that can make a meaningful difference
  
  

This conversation is educational, grounding, and empowering—perfect for any woman who wants to feel more informed, supported, and in control of her health journey.

To learn more about Melissa Nichols check out her instagram https://www.instagram.com/reforming_you/

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After building a successful career in finance, Carolin realized that access to information wasn’t the real problem—confidence, language, and systems were.

Today, she helps women feel powerful, informed, and unapologetic about their money through education, strategy, and mindset work.

Together, Emily and Carolin unpack:

• Why women are conditioned to stay quiet about money
• The biggest financial mistakes high-achieving women make
• How to build wealth without restriction, shame, or burnout
• The difference between “earning more” and actually keeping more
• Why financial literacy is a form of self-trust and self-advocacy
• How entrepreneurs can make smarter decisions with cash flow, taxes, and investing

This episode is practical, empowering, and a must-listen for any woman who wants to feel financially confident, capable, and in control—whether you’re building a business, growing your career, or simply ready to stop avoiding your bank account.

To learn more about Carolin Helff check out instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the_financially_fierce for more information on her upcoming programs.

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Check our past episodes of The Second Degree podcast! Remember to follow us on Instagram.