BETTER! Muscle, Mobility, Metabolism & (Peri) Menopause with Dr. Stephanie

If you've ever sat in a doctor's office describing brain fog, mood swings, terrible sleep, and a body that no longer responds to anything you try — only to be sent home with a shrug and maybe an antidepressant — this one's for you. Dr. Mary Claire Haver, Board-Certified OBGYN and Certified Menopause Specialist, is back for round two, and she came prepared. In this episode, she breaks down the hormonal wildfire she calls 'The Zone of Chaos,' explains why perimenopause looks nothing like what your doctor was trained to treat, and gives you the actual language to walk into your next appointment and finally get some answers. Buckle up. Episode Overview (timestamps are approximate): (0:00) Intro/Teaser (5:00) The Zone of Chaos (9:00) How Do You Know You're in Perimenopause? (13:00) "I Don't Feel Like Myself" - The Universal Symptom (15:00) 10 Doctors, Polypharmacy & a Hysterectomy (17:00) How to Get Answers (19:00) Your Brain on Perimenopause (23:00) The ADHD Connection (26:00) Bone Density & Muscle Mass (29:00) Calming the Chaos, Not Replacing What's Lost (44:00) What Mary Claire Actually Does (53:00) Fasting, Menowashing & Your Bull$h!t Radar (56:00) A Letter to My 35-Year-Old Self (1:00:00) After Party: Dr. Stephanie's Takeaways Resources mentioned in this episode: https://drstephanieestima.com/podcasts/ep462/ We couldn’t do it without our sponsors: ONESKIN - Harness the power of peptides for fuller hair and glowing skin. Save 15% at https://oneskin.co/better with code BETTER. APOLLO - The Apollo wearable supports energy, focus, relaxation, and sleep by syncing with your rhythms. Go to https://ApolloNeuro.com/BETTER to get $99 off Apollo with Smart Vibes AI. LMNT - Stay hydrated without the sugar, food dye, and other dodgy ingredients found in popular electrolyte and sports drinks. Receive a free LMNT Sample Pack with any order when you make a purchase at https://DrinkLMNT.com/Better BIOPTIMIZERS - Magnesium Breakthrough contains multiple types of magnesium plus cofactors like B6 to enhance absorption. Visit https://bioptimizers.com/better and use code BETTER to save 15%. ****************************P.S. When you're ready, here are two ways Dr. Stephanie can help you:Subscribe: The Mini Pause — My weekly newsletter packed with the most actionable, evidence-based tools for women 40+ to thrive in midlife.Build Muscle: LIFT — My progressive strength training program designed for women in midlife. Form-focused, joint-friendly, and built for real results. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode is essential for millions of women who’ve been on antidepressants for years or even decades. Dr. Mark Horowitz https://www.outro.com/about/outro, a British-Australian psychiatry researcher, neuroscientist, and lead author of clinical deprescribing guidelines, offers an honest conversation about the science, marketing myths, and long-term effects of antidepressants, including emotional numbing, weight gain, disrupted sleep, and cognitive changes. Dr. Horowitz explains the difference between addiction and physical dependence, why withdrawal symptoms are often mistaken for relapse, and the evidence-based method of hyperbolic tapering. Whether you’ve been on an antidepressant for two years or twenty, you’ll leave with smart questions for your prescriber, a clear sense of your own readiness, and reassurance that tapering off slowly and carefully has a success rate of over 90%. Episode Overview: (0:00) Intro/Teaser (6:00) Midlife Misdiagnosis (11:00) How Life Events Became Medicalized and Why That Matters (18:00) Long-Term Side Effects (27:00) The Serotonin Hypothesis (31:00) Addiction vs. Physical Dependence (39:00) Withdrawal vs. Relapse: How to Tell the Difference (49:00) Hyperbolic Tapering Explained (57:00) How to Know if You're Ready to Come Off Your Antidepressant (1:10:00) What to Say to Your Doctor (1:17:00) The After-Party with Dr. Stephanie Resources mentioned: https://drstephanieestima.com/podcasts/ep461 We couldn’t do it without our sponsors: HIGHER DOSE - If you’re noticing thinning, shedding, or simply want to support scalp and hair health proactively, this is a powerful addition to your routine. Get 15% off at https://higherdose.com with code BETTER at checkout. LMNT - Rehydrate with the perfect mix of sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Get a free sample pack at https://drinklmnt.com/drestima TIMELINE - We know we are in a fight against time to preserve our muscle strength and endurance, plus our recovery needs are greater. That's why you save 20% at https://timelinenutrition.com/better with code BETTER. KENETIK - You think carefully about how you fuel your body but are you fueling your brain? Learn more and try it for yourself by going to https://drinkkenetik.com/BETTER and use code BETTER for 15% off. ****************************P.S. When you're ready, here are two ways Dr. Stephanie can help you:Subscribe: The Mini Pause — My weekly newsletter packed with the most actionable, evidence-based tools for women 40+ to thrive in midlife.Build Muscle: LIFT — My progressive strength training program designed for women in midlife. Form-focused, joint-friendly, and built for real results. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Neuroscientist Dr. Tommy Wood breaks down what it actually takes to keep your brain sharp as you age. Drawing from his new book The Stimulated Mind, Tommy makes the case that movement is non-negotiable for brain health — and that even small amounts make a meaningful difference. From walking and resistance training to dancing and pickleball, different types of exercise protect different parts of the brain in ways that compound over time. The bottom line? You don't need a perfect plan. You just need to start. Episode Overview: (0:00) Intro/Teaser (7:00) The Exercise Framework: From Snacks to Sprints (11:00) The Norwegian 4x4 Study (14:00) Lactate, BDNF & Why HIIT Is Good for Your Brain (15:00) Resistance Training, White Matter & Decision-Making Speed (17:00) Why Pickleball Beats the Recumbent Bike (24:00) Stress, Cortisol & Inflammation (31:00) Muscle as a Proxy for Brain Health (40:00) Nutrition for Brain Health (53:00) The Female Brain (1:09:00) Brain Training: Languages, Video Games & the Power of Failing (1:23:00) The After-Party with Dr. Stephanie Resources mentioned in this episode: https://drstephanieestima.com/podcasts/ep460 We couldn’t do it without our sponsors: PIQUE - Designed to deeply hydrate, enhance skin elasticity & firmness and support sustained energy—exactly what we need during this stage of life. Start your daily ritual today with 20% off for life—plus a free gift to elevate your routine. Head to https://piquelife.com/drestima. COZY EARTH - Cozy Earth helps you feel better by keeping your temperature perfect overnight to facilitate deep restorative sleep. Head to https://cozyearth.com and use my code BETTER for up to 20% off. KENETIK - You think carefully about how you fuel your body but are you fueling your brain? Learn more about Kenetik and try it for yourself by going to https://drinkkenetik.com/BETTER and use code BETTER for 15% off your purchase. HIGHER DOSE - If you’re noticing thinning, shedding, or simply want to support scalp and hair health proactively, this is a powerful addition to your routine. Get 15% off the Red Light Hat at https://higherdose.com with code BETTER at checkout. MINI PAUSE - Join my weekly roundup of the BEST actionable steps for women 40+ who want to gain control of their hormones during perimenopause and menopause. Head over to https://drstephanieestima.com/newsletter/ to sign up now! ****************************P.S. When you're ready, here are two ways Dr. Stephanie can help you:Subscribe: The Mini Pause — My weekly newsletter packed with the most actionable, evidence-based tools for women 40+ to thrive in midlife.Build Muscle: LIFT — My progressive strength training program designed for women in midlife. Form-focused, joint-friendly, and built for real results. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

You can't watch a single sporting event without being hit with an Ozempic commercial — but did you know that those GLP-1s everyone's talking about are actually peptides? Kyal Van Der Leest — nutritionist, naturopath, and the formulator behind LvLUp Health — breaks down which peptides actually work, which ones are all hype, and why the Swiss Army knife of peptides (BPC-157) might be exactly what your gut, your joints, and your brain have been begging for. Kyal gets into the oral vs. injectable debate (Kyal sells oral peptides and still admits most oral ones don't work — gotta respect that), why your midlife body composition changes aren't just about willpower, the mould exposure conversation that'll make you side-eye your hotel room forever, and whether microdosing GLP-1s is the smarter play. If you're a Betty navigating perimenopause or menopause and want real, science-backed options beyond "just take Ozempic," this episode is your new best friend. Go to https://lvluphealth.com/DRSTEPHANIE and use code DRSTEPHANIE for 15% off. Episode Overview:0:00 Teaser/Intro6:30 Oral vs. Injectable Peptides11:22 The Cost, Convenience & Travel Factor15:47 BPC-157: The Swiss Army Knife of Peptides21:10 Arthritis, Autoimmunity & the Gut Connection27:28 GHK-Copper: Skin From Within & Longevity Genes35:54 Body Composition Changes in Perimenopause & Menopause43:24 Microdosing GLP-1s49:47 Mould: The Hidden Wrecker of Hormones, Gut & Brain58:49 How to Cycle Peptides (And Why You Should)1:02:38 Level Up Health: Where to Find These Products1:09:29 The After Party: Dr. Stephanie's Honest Take Resources mentioned in this episode can be found at https://drstephanieestima.com/podcasts/ep459 We couldn’t do it without our sponsors: TIMELINE - As perimenopausal women, we know we are in a fight against time to preserve our muscle strength and endurance, plus our recovery needs are greater. That's why you save 20% at https://timelinenutrition.com/better with code BETTER. JUST THRIVE HEALTH - Take the Just Thrive FEEL BETTER challenge today, and save 20% on your first order. Go to https://justthrivehealth.com/better and use the code BETTER to see the difference for yourself. BON CHARGE - Achieve glowing skin, gain more energy, and uplevel your recovery practice with a suite of red light products. Get 15% off at https://boncharge.com/better with code BETTER. AGZ - If you’re ready to turn down the stress and focus on the rest, head to https://drinkag1.com/STEPHANIE to get a FREE Frother with your first purchase of AGZ. EQUIP COLLAGEN - Support bones, joints, gut, and skin with Equip Collagen. Get 20% off at https://equipfoods.com/better with code BETTER. ****************************P.S. When you're ready, here are two ways Dr. Stephanie can help you:Subscribe: The Mini Pause — My weekly newsletter packed with the most actionable, evidence-based tools for women 40+ to thrive in midlife.Build Muscle: LIFT — My progressive strength training program designed for women in midlife. Form-focused, joint-friendly, and built for real results. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Your keys aren't lost. Your mind isn't going. And no, that's not Alzheimer's. Dr. Majid Fotuhi, Adjunct Professor, Johns Hopkins University & author of The Invincible Brain, busts the biggest myth in women's brain health: that the fog, the forgetfulness, and the "wait, why did I walk in here?" moments of perimenopause are a sign of something sinister. Spoiler: they're not. And your brain? It can literally grow. From the surprising science of how walking three times a week can give you a measurably bigger brain, to why your hearing aid might be the best thing you ever do for your memory, Dr. Fotuhi gives us proof that midlife isn't a decline — it's a new childhood. And this time, you're in charge. Episode Overview (timestamps are approximate): (0:00) Intro/Teaser (5:00) Why Perimenopause Causes Brain Fog (8:00) Estrogen & How Hormones Affect Memory (13:00) Exercise Is the #1 Pillar of Brain Health (16:00) Exercise That Grows Your Brain (21:00) Brain Fog vs. Alzheimer’s (26:00) Your Genes Are Not Your Destiny (30:00) Medications & Hearing Loss (43:00) Beyond IQ: The 30 Forms of Intelligence (50:00) Brain Training & Neuroplasticity (1:01:00) The After-Party with Dr. Stephanie Resources mentioned in this episode: https://drstephanieestima.com/podcasts/ep458 We couldn’t do it without our sponsors: QUALIA CREATINE+ - If you want to feel stronger, sharper, and more resilient, Qualia’s Creatine+ is my recommendation.Go to https://qualialife.com/better and use code BETTER to save up to 50%, plus an additional 15% off. COZY EARTH - Cozy Earth helps you feel better by keeping your temperature perfect overnight to facilitate deep restorative sleep. Head to https://cozyearth.com and use my code BETTER for up to 20% off. TROSCRIPTIONS - There’s a completely new way to optimize your health. Give it a try at https://troscriptions.com/BETTER or enter BETTER at checkout for 10% off your first order. PIQUE LIFE - If you want to redefine your evening ritual and still feel like yourself the next day, you can get 10% off for life. Yes, for life at https://piquelife.com/better YOUNG GOOSE - More resilient. More hydrated. More responsive. This is skin quality skincare. Go to https://younggoose.com/better and use code BETTER for 10% off your first purchase ****************************P.S. When you're ready, here are two ways Dr. Stephanie can help you:Subscribe: The Mini Pause — My weekly newsletter packed with the most actionable, evidence-based tools for women 40+ to thrive in midlife.Build Muscle: LIFT — My progressive strength training program designed for women in midlife. Form-focused, joint-friendly, and built for real results. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Stephanie covers tendon anatomy, how they respond to mechanical loading, why "stiffness" is actually desirable, and the evidence-based rehab hierarchy: load management, isometrics, heavy slow resistance training, and elastic recoil progressions. She addresses common issues for women over 40—lateral hip pain, rotator cuff problems, tennis elbow, patellar tendinopathy—and explains how perimenopause and hormone shifts create vulnerabilities. Whether you're dealing with a cranky Achilles, can't sleep on your side due to hip pain, or want to prevent future injury while strength training for life, this episode gives you the tendon operating manual you didn't know you needed. Plus: why tendons are Dr. Stephanie's spirit animal (they hate surprises, just like her). Episode Overview (timestamps are approximate): (0:00) Teaser: Tendons Are My Spirit Animal (2:00) Why Tendons Deserve Their Own Episode (5:00) Tendon Anatomy: Ropes Upon Ropes of Collagen (11:00) Mechanotransduction & The Goldilocks Principle (18:00) The Six-Week Trap: When Muscles Outpace Tendons (24:00) Tendinopathy Explained (30:00) The Four-Pillar Rehab Strategy (40:00) Prevention Checklist (44:00) Women Over 40: Hormones, Hip Pain & Rotator Cuff Issues (55:00) Final Thoughts & Wrap-Up Resources mentioned in this episode can be found at https://drstephanieestima.com/podcasts/ep457 We couldn’t do it without our sponsors: BIOPTIMIZERS - Magnesium Breakthrough contains multiple types of magnesium plus cofactors like B6 to enhance absorption. Visit https://bioptimizers.com/better and use code BETTER to save 15%. TIMELINE - As perimenopausal women, we know we are in a fight against time to preserve our muscle strength and endurance, plus our recovery needs are greater. That's why you save 20% at https://timelinenutrition.com/better with code BETTER. ONESKIN - Harness the power of peptides for fuller hair and glowing skin. Save 15% at https://oneskin.co/better with code BETTER. JUST THRIVE HEALTH - Take the Just Thrive FEEL BETTER challenge today, and save 20% on your first order. Go to https://justthrivehealth.com/better and use the code BETTER to see the difference for yourself. HIGHER DOSE - If you’re noticing thinning, shedding, or simply want to support scalp and hair health proactively, this is a powerful addition to your routine. Get 15% off the Red Light Hat at https://higherdose.com with code BETTER at checkout. ****************************P.S. When you're ready, here are two ways Dr. Stephanie can help you:Subscribe: The Mini Pause — My weekly newsletter packed with the most actionable, evidence-based tools for women 40+ to thrive in midlife.Build Muscle: LIFT — My progressive strength training program designed for women in midlife. Form-focused, joint-friendly, and built for real results. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Maria Sophocles examines the “bedroom gap,” the disparity in sexual expectations and challenges between men and women in midlife. In this episode, she explains how menopausal hormonal changes, together with psychological and cultural pressures, affect women’s sexual agency. Many women internalize norms that prioritize a partner’s needs over their own, leading to shame about reduced libido. This conversation is a call to action for women to prioritize their sexual health and engage in honest dialogue to support healthier, more fulfilling relationships.Episode Overview (timestamps are approximate):(0:00) Intro/Teaser(5:00) The Bedroom Gap(10:00) Hormones & The Neiman Marcus to IKEA Transition(14:00) Systemic Estrogen vs. Vaginal & The Cancer Fear(23:00) Hormone Therapy & The Healthy User Bias(26:00) Non-Hormonal Options(32:00) Sex After a Heart Attack(40:00) Sex Span as Health Span(42:00) Why Women Think Sex Is For Men(49:00) Where to Learn About Sex(55:00) How to Talk to Your Partner(1:10:00) Redefining Sex at Any Age(1:13:00) After Party with Dr. StephanieResources mentioned can be found at https://drstephanieestima.com/podcasts/ep456We couldn’t do it without our sponsors:KENETIK - You think carefully about how you fuel your body but are you fueling your brain? Learn more about Kenetik and try it for yourself by going to https://drinkkenetik.com/BETTER and use code BETTER for 15% off your purchase.MUSE - Train your nervous system with feedback, the same way you’d train muscles with resistance. If you are ready to unlock your brain's potential, go to https://choosemuse.com/BETTER or use code BETTER at checkout to get started.COZY EARTH - Cozy Earth helps you feel better by keeping your temperature perfect overnight to facilitate deep restorative sleep. Head to https://cozyearth.com and use my code BETTER for up to 20% off.PIQUE LIFE - If you want to redefine your evening ritual and still feel like yourself the next day, you can get 10% off for life. Yes, for life at https://piquelife.com/better ****************************P.S. When you're ready, here are two ways Dr. Stephanie can help you:Subscribe: The Mini Pause — My weekly newsletter packed with the most actionable, evidence-based tools for women 40+ to thrive in midlife.Build Muscle: LIFT — My progressive strength training program designed for women in midlife. Form-focused, joint-friendly, and built for real results. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ready for the breast health conversation nobody's having? Harvard-trained breast radiologist Dr. Lilian Ebuoma gives a masterclass that covers everything from why your daughter might be developing breast buds at 7 (spoiler: it's not just you) to the real deal on mammograms, dense breasts, and that one lifestyle change that drops breast cancer risk by 25%. Whether you're navigating perimenopause, worried about lumps, confused about nipple discharge colours (yes, there's a rainbow), or just want to understand your breasts better—this episode gives you the knowledge and confidence to advocate for yourself. Plus, Dr. Lilian shares the one question that transforms patient care and builds trust across cultural divides. If you own breasts or care about someone who does, press play. Episode Overview (timestamps are approximate): (0:00) Intro/Teaser (4:00) Breast Development (12:00) Breast Pain: Cyclical vs Non-Cyclical (16:00) Lumps & Self-Exams (27:00) Nipple Discharge (33:00) Mastitis (38:00) Dense Breasts & Mammography Myths (41:00) Compression, Radiation & Mammograms (54:00) Lifestyle as Prevention (58:00) Finding Joy in Movement (1:05:00) Building Trust Across Cultural Divides (1:09:00) “What Are You Afraid Of?” (1:11:00) The After-Party with Dr. Stephanie Resources mentioned in this episode can be found at: https://drstephanieestima.com/podcasts/ep455 We couldn’t do it without our sponsors BON CHARGE - Achieve glowing skin, gain more energy, and uplevel your recovery practice with a suite of red light products. Get 15% off at https://boncharge.com/better with code BETTER. JUST THRIVE HEALTH - Take the Just Thrive FEEL BETTER challenge today, and save 20% on your first order. Go to https://justthrivehealth.com/better and use the code BETTER to see the difference for yourself or get a full product refund, no questions asked. TIMELINE - As perimenopausal women, we know we are in a fight against time to preserve our muscle strength and endurance, plus our recovery needs are greater. That's why you save 20% at https://timelinenutrition.com/better with code BETTER. COZY EARTH - Cozy Earth helps you feel better by keeping your temperature perfect overnight to facilitate deep restorative sleep. Head to https://cozyearth.com and use my code BETTER for up to 20% off. AG1 - Subscribe today to get a 1-month supply of AG Omega-3 with your first AG1 order! You’ll also get their Welcome Kit with everything you need to get you started. Get it now at https://drinkag1.com/stephanie. ****************************P.S. When you're ready, here are two ways Dr. Stephanie can help you:Subscribe: The Mini Pause — My weekly newsletter packed with the most actionable, evidence-based tools for women 40+ to thrive in midlife.Build Muscle: LIFT — My progressive strength training program designed for women in midlife. Form-focused, joint-friendly, and built for real results. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Doug Lucas, a double board-certified orthopedic surgeon and osteoporosis specialist, who dives into the secrets of maintaining optimal bone health. In this episode, you will discover why bone health is vital for women of all ages and learn actionable tips to build and maintain strong bones from your teens to your golden years. Brace yourself for intriguing insights, such as the surprising benefits of prunes as an independent intervention for osteoporosis! This episode is a comprehensive guide to nurturing your bones through diet, exercise, and hormonal balance.Episode Overview [Timestamps are approximate]:(0:00) Introduction(4:00) Why Women Get Osteoporosis in Their 40s(11:00) The Chronic Dieting Problem & Under-Eating Epidemic(17:00) Pregnancy, Breastfeeding & Bone Density(23:00) Hormones Explained(34:00) Nutrition for Bone Health(43:00) The Boron Secret & Prunes for Bone Density(47:00) Exercise That Hurts Your Bones(55:00) How to Lift Weights for Bone Health(1:04:00) Weighted Vests, GLP-1s & Bone Medications(1:23:00) The After-Party with Dr. StephanieResources mentioned in this episode can be found at https://drstephanieestima.com/podcasts/ep454We couldn’t do it without our sponsors:TROSCRIPTIONS - There’s a completely new way to optimize your health. Give it a try at https://troscriptions.com/BETTER or enter BETTER at checkout for 10% off your first order.PIQUE LIFE - If you want to redefine your evening ritual and still feel like yourself the next day, you can get 10% off for life. Yes, for life at https://piquelife.com/betterYOUNG GOOSE - Youth Serum & Youth Moisturizer from Young Goose is designed to support NAD⁺-dependent cellular pathways in the skin. Go to https://younggoose.com/better and use code BETTER for 10% off your first purchaseLIFT - If you want muscle for longevity, clarity, and confidence—come LIFT with me. Head over to https://drstephanieestima.com/lift and join today.QUALIA NAD+ - Boost energy, DNA health, and cellular protection. Save 15% at https://qualialife.com/better with code BETTER. ****************************P.S. When you're ready, here are two ways Dr. Stephanie can help you:Subscribe: The Mini Pause — My weekly newsletter packed with the most actionable, evidence-based tools for women 40+ to thrive in midlife.Build Muscle: LIFT — My progressive strength training program designed for women in midlife. Form-focused, joint-friendly, and built for real results. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

"Estrogen is not a hormone; it's a family of hormones,” says Dr. Felice Gersh. “You can't say fat does this or fat does that—you have to say which fat. The same with estrogen.” That’s right, she is back to challenge the conventional "lowest dose for the shortest time" approach to menopausal hormone therapy, explore why menopause creates a default pro-inflammatory state, how different estrogens activate different receptors, and why understanding these distinctions matters for cardiovascular health, bone density, brain function, immune response, and metabolic health.Episode Overview (timestamps are approximate):(0:00) Intro/Teaser(2:00) Welcome to an Estrogen Masterclass(6:00) The Estrogen Family: E1, E2, E3, E4 Explained(15:00) Alpha vs. Beta Receptors & Why It Matters(27:00) Menopause, Inflammation & Gut Health(33:00) Menopause as a Hormone Deficiency State(45:00) Why the Women’s Health Initiative Got It Wrong(59:00) When to Start Hormone Therapy (Age 35?)(1:13:00) Bioidentical vs. Synthetic Hormones(1:22:00) Vaginal Estrogen: Canary in the Coal Mine(1:32:00) BiEst & Topical Estrogen for Skin(1:40:00) After Party: Dr. Stephanie’s TakeawaysResources mentioned in this episode can be found at: https://drstephanieestima.com/podcasts/ep453We are grateful to our sponsors:KENETIK - You think carefully about how you fuel your body but are you fueling your brain? Learn more about Kenetik and try it for yourself by going to https://drinkkenetik.com/BETTER and use code BETTER for 15% off your purchase.TIMELINE - A new year means a new gym membership - but you can’t out-train low energy; it starts deeper than that. So grab 35% off your one-month subscription of Mitopure Gummies at https://Timeline.com/BETTER35 while the offer lasts.BIOPTIMIZERS - Your digestion can take a hit in midlife, but you don't have to suffer. Learn how enzymes can help at https://bioptimizers.com/better and use code BETTER to get 10% off your order.ONESKIN - Harness the power of peptides for fuller hair and glowing skin. Save 15% at https://oneskin.co/better with code BETTER. ****************************P.S. When you're ready, here are two ways Dr. Stephanie can help you:Subscribe: The Mini Pause — My weekly newsletter packed with the most actionable, evidence-based tools for women 40+ to thrive in midlife.Build Muscle: LIFT — My progressive strength training program designed for women in midlife. Form-focused, joint-friendly, and built for real results. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Award-winning health journalist Meghan Rabbitt discusses her groundbreaking book, "The New Rules of Women's Health.” This conversation tackles what's broken in women's healthcare—from outdated anatomical terminology named after "pale, male, and stale" doctors to the dangerous myth that women are just "small men." They explore why heart disease (not breast cancer) is women's #1 killer, the clitoris as more than just a "button," autoimmune disease surges in midlife, and why menopause deserves better PR.Episode Overview (timestamps are approximate):(0:00) Cold Open: What’s Broken in Women’s Health(4:00) The Problem with “Bikini Medicine”(7:00) Why Language Matters: Renaming Our Body Parts(13:00) The Cow Clitoris Scandal & Female Anatomy(22:00) Heart Disease: Women’s Real #1 Killer(27:00) Autoimmune Disease Surge in Midlife(34:00) Normalizing Suffering(42:00) How to Use This Book with Your Doctor(47:00) The Upsides of Menopause(51:00) After Party: Dr. Stephanie’s Final ThoughtsResources mentioned in this episode can be found at https://drstephanieestima.com/podcasts/ep452We couldn’t do it without our sponsors:JUST THRIVE HEALTH - Take the Just Thrive FEEL BETTER challenge today, and save 20% on your first order. Go to https://justthrivehealth.com/better and use the code BETTER to see the difference for yourself or get a full product refund, no questions asked.MIMIO - You can get cellular renewal, anti-inflammatory effects, and longevity benefits while STILL eating enough protein, lifting heavy, and not tanking your hormones. Go to https://mimiohealth.com/better and use code ESTIMA at checkout to save 20% on your first order of Mimio Biomimetic Cell Care.PIQUE - Designed to deeply hydrate, enhance skin elasticity & firmness and support sustained energy—exactly what we need during this stage of life. Start your daily ritual today with 20% off for life—plus a free gift to elevate your routine. Head to https://piquelife.com/drestima.TIMELINE - A new year means a new gym membership - but you can’t out-train low energy; it starts deeper than that. So grab 35% off your one-month subscription of Mitopure Gummies at https://Timeline.com/BETTER35 while the offer lasts. ****************************P.S. When you're ready, here are two ways Dr. Stephanie can help you:Subscribe: The Mini Pause — My weekly newsletter packed with the most actionable, evidence-based tools for women 40+ to thrive in midlife.Build Muscle: LIFT — My progressive strength training program designed for women in midlife. Form-focused, joint-friendly, and built for real results. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Think testosterone is just a male hormone? Think again. In this game-changing conversation, Shalin Shah, CEO of Marius Pharmaceuticals, debunks a major myth in women’s health. Spoiler alert: women have more testosterone than estrogen, and when those levels drop during perimenopause and menopause, it affects more than just libido. Brain fog, disrupted sleep, stubborn belly fat, and a feeling of losing strength and vitality are common symptoms. While men have had access to testosterone therapy for decades, women have been left in the dark until now. Shalin explains the importance of testosterone for various bodily functions, debunks myths that prevent proper treatment, and shares the revolutionary science behind the first effective oral testosterone therapy that aligns with the body’s natural rhythms.Episodes Overview (timestamps are approximate):(0:00) Intro/Teaser(3:00) Understanding Testosterone in Men and Women(6:00) Clinical Signs and Symptoms of Low Testosterone(11:00) Testing and Diagnosing Testosterone Levels(13:00) Challenges in Hormone Therapy for Women(21:00) Environmental and Lifestyle Factors Affecting Testosterone(23:00) Increasing Natural Testosterone Levels(30:00) Modes of Testosterone Delivery(35:00) Female Hormone Therapy: Standardized Dosing(39:00) Debunking Myths About Testosterone(44:00) Dosage and Monitoring for Testosterone Therapy(51:00) Challenges in Accessing Hormone Therapy(54:00) Global Availability and Future of Oral Testosterone(58:00) The After-Party with Dr. StephanieResources mentioned in this episode can be found at: https://drstephanieestima.com/podcasts/ep451/We couldn’t do it without our sponsors:TIMELINE - A new year means a new gym membership - but you can’t out-train low energy; it starts deeper than that. So grab 35% off your one-month subscription of Mitopure Gummies at https://Timeline.com/BETTER35 while the offer lasts.QUALIA SENOLYTIC - This vegan, non-GMO, gluten-free blend of nine plant-derived ingredients is clinically tested to help your body naturally eliminate senescent cells and support healthy aging. Save 15% at https://qualialife.com/better with code BETTER.BON CHARGE - Achieve glowing skin, gain more energy, and uplevel your recovery practice with a suite of red light products. Get 15% off at https://boncharge.com/better with code BETTER.LMNT - Rehydrate with the perfect mix of sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Get a free sample pack at https://drinklmnt.com/drestima.EQUIP - Support bones, joints, gut, and skin with Equip Collagen. Get 20% off at https://equipfoods.com/better with code BETTER. ****************************P.S. When you're ready, here are two ways Dr. Stephanie can help you:Subscribe: The Mini Pause — My weekly newsletter packed with the most actionable, evidence-based tools for women 40+ to thrive in midlife.Build Muscle: LIFT — My progressive strength training program designed for women in midlife. Form-focused, joint-friendly, and built for real results. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dr. Stephanie goes "holiday-solo" for the third and final time this week to discuss the growing claim that obesity is mainly genetic, with diet and exercise only accounting for 15% of results. She explains why this messaging is scientifically questionable and potentially harmful, especially for women in perimenopause and menopause who feel powerless. In this candid solo episode, Dr. Stephanie addresses the recent trend of medical professionals suggesting that GLP-1 medications like Ozempic are more effective than lifestyle interventions, and why this approach undermines women’s agency. She acknowledges genetic predispositions but argues that resistance training and protein-forward nutrition should remain our primary tools for metabolic health.Episode overview:(0:00) Intro/Teaser(2:00) The Instagram Post(4:00) The Role of Neurochemicals in Obesity(5:00) Glucose Metabolism and Muscle Quality(6:00) Hormonal Changes in Midlife(7:00) Critique of Genetic Determinism in Obesity(12:00) The Importance of Diet and Exercise(19:00) Teaching Healthy Habits to Children(21:00) Final Thoughts and Action StepsResources mentioned in this episode can be found at https://drstephanieestima.com/podcasts/ep450/We couldn’t do it without our sponsors:PIQUE - Designed to deeply hydrate, enhance skin elasticity & firmness and support sustained energy—exactly what we need during this stage of life. Start your daily ritual today with 20% off for life—plus a free gift to elevate your routine. Head to https://piquelife.com/drestima.TROSCRIPTIONS - There’s a completely new way to optimize your health. Give it a try at https://troscriptions.com/BETTER or enter BETTER at checkout for 10% off your first order.JUST THRIVE HEALTH - Take the Just Thrive FEEL BETTER challenge today, and save 20% on your first order. Go to https://justthrivehealth.com/better and use the code BETTER to see the difference for yourself or get a full product refund, no questions asked.AGZ - If you’re ready to turn down the stress and focus on the rest, head to https://drinkag1.com/STEPHANIE to get a FREE Frother with your first purchase of AGZ.LVLUP - Ultimate GI Repair combines powerful gut-healing peptides with gut-nourishing naturals to soothe your changing digestion. Go to https://lvluphealth.com/DRSTEPHANIE and use code DRSTEPHANIE for 15% off. ****************************P.S. When you're ready, here are two ways Dr. Stephanie can help you:Subscribe: The Mini Pause — My weekly newsletter packed with the most actionable, evidence-based tools for women 40+ to thrive in midlife.Build Muscle: LIFT — My progressive strength training program designed for women in midlife. Form-focused, joint-friendly, and built for real results. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As we wind down 2025 in this second of three solo episodes, Dr. Stephanie takes a pause to express her deep gratitude for the Better community and guide you through a meaningful year-end reflection. This isn't about toxic positivity or pretending everything was fine—it's about acknowledging the highs and lows, the lessons learned, and the strength you discovered (even when you didn't know you had it).In this intimate solo episode, Dr. Stephanie shares reflective questions and gratitude practices to help you take stock of 2025 and set intentional (not pressured) direction for 2026. Whether you're in your pyjamas in that post-Christmas vortex or out for a walk, this episode offers a gentle hand and a tender heart as you close out the year.Episode Overview (timestamps are approximate):(0:00) Intro/Teaser(2:00) What Gratitude Really Is (& What It’s Not)(4:00) 2025 Gratitude Inventory(14:00) The Gratitude Note Exercise(15:00) What Did I Survive & Learn?(18:00) What Am I Ready to Forgive Myself For?(21:00) How Do I Want to Feel in 2026?(24:00) What Will I Prioritize Even If No One Claps?Resources mentioned in the episode can be found at https://drstephanieestima.com/podcasts/ep449We couldn’t do it without our sponsorsTIMELINE - As perimenopausal women, we know we are in a fight against time to preserve our muscle strength and endurance, plus our recovery needs are greater. That's why you save 20% at https://timelinenutrition.com/better with code BETTER.ONESKIN - Harness the power of peptides for fuller hair and glowing skin. Save 15% at https://oneskin.co/better with code BETTER.AG1 - I take my AG1 Omega 3s first thing in the morning once I'm home from the gym. Subscribe today to get a 1-month supply of AG Omega-3 with your first AG1 order! You’ll also get their Welcome Kit with everything you need to get you started. Get it now at https://drinkag1.com/stephanie.LVLUP - Ultimate GI Repair combines powerful gut-healing peptides with gut-nourishing naturals to soothe your changing digestion. Go to https://lvluphealth.com/DRSTEPHANIE and use code DRSTEPHANIE for 15% off. ****************************P.S. When you're ready, here are two ways Dr. Stephanie can help you:Subscribe: The Mini Pause — My weekly newsletter packed with the most actionable, evidence-based tools for women 40+ to thrive in midlife.Build Muscle: LIFT — My progressive strength training program designed for women in midlife. Form-focused, joint-friendly, and built for real results. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.