Everyday Wellness: Midlife Hormones, Menopause, and Science for Women 35+

Today, I am honored to connect with my friend and colleague, Dr. Jenn Simmons. Dr. Simmons is an integrative oncologist, breast surgeon, author, podcast host, and the founder of PerfeQTion Imaging. 

In our discussion today, we dive into breast cancer statistics and the fact that most cases of breast cancer are preventable. We tackle the confusion caused by overdiagnosis, explain why mammograms can be problematic, and outline which breast cancer diagnoses are true emergencies. We provide clarity on the differences between various breast cancer types, the state of normal breast health, and how we have both estrogen and progesterone receptors. Dr. Simmons sheds light on DCIS (ductal carcinoma in situ) and explains why treatments like radiation may not always impact survival. We also examine the roles of trauma and alcohol in breast cancer risk, and we begin answering questions from listeners. 

Don’t miss this engaging, helpful, and proactive discussion with Dr. Jenn Simmons. We were wonderfully overwhelmed with all the questions we received, and with so much still to cover, I want to reassure everyone that we are already planning a follow-up AMA episode with Dr. Jenn.

IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN:

Connect with Cynthia Thurlow  

Connect with Dr. Jenn Simmons

Today, we have an extra-special episode recorded live at an Eudemonia event in West Palm Beach in November 2024. I had the privilege of sitting down with Dr. Kwadwo Kyeremanteng, an ICU-attending physician in Ontario, Canada. Dr. Kyeremanteng is particularly attuned to middle-aged women and is interested in preventative care and metabolic health. Across social media channels, he is known affectionately as Dr. K.

In our discussion, we spoke at length about fear-based decision-making and medicine, looking at the impact of allopathic care models and lifestyle-related diseases, the impact of hospitalizations and big-gun antibiotic therapy, and the trauma of being hospitalized in the ICU. We also dove into the role of the microbiome, exploring lifestyle, the challenges of changing the medical system, and the concept of knowing better and doing better as a clinician. We closed the conversation by discussing the Women's Health Initiative and the subsequent prescribing changes in the wake of that study, the role of advocacy, and end-of-life decisions. 

You will not want to miss this invaluable conversation with the delightfully charming and insightful Dr K.

IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN:

Bio: 

Dr. Kwadwo Kyeremanteng is an ICU physician, productivity expert, and health and wellness advocate. He is the author of "Unapologetic Leadership," which promotes decisive and authentic leadership principles. Dr. Kyeremanteng also hosts the popular podcast "Solving Healthcare," where he discusses innovative solutions to improve healthcare delivery and outcomes. His work is driven by a commitment to equitable access to care and reducing healthcare costs while enhancing quality. Dr. Kyeremanteng is an active social media presence and leverages AI in his work to further his mission of relieving suffering and promoting health.

Connect with Cynthia Thurlow  

Connect with Dr. Kwadwo Kyeremanteng

Disclaimer:

This episode was recorded at Eudemonia. The creators retain full rights to use the footage and audio across their platforms, including podcast distribution, YouTube, and social media. With permission, portions of this recording may also appear in Eudemonia's non-commercial catalog behind an email wall, with a link back acknowledging the recording location.

Today, I have the privilege of engaging in a fascinating and eye-opening conversation with Dr. Judy Morgan, a renowned figure in the field of veterinary care. 

As a certified veterinary acupuncturist, chiropractic owner, and food therapist, Dr. Morgan's expertise extends way beyond traditional allopathic medicine. Although she retired from clinical practice in 2020, her dedication to promoting exceptional veterinary care remains unwavering, both within the United States and abroad. 

In our discussion, we dive into the factors contributing to the declining health of our beloved pets, such as the alarming obesity rates affecting 60% of pets in the United States. We also explore the flaws within the pet food industry, including the significant influence of Mars Petcare, a conglomerate that has acquired a substantial portion of the processed food industry. 

Our conversation covers a myriad of topics, ranging from the distinctions between rendered and food-grade meat to the complexities surrounding grain-free diets. We touch on the contentious subject of vaccines, explain how to navigate between core and non-core vaccinations, and discuss specific concerns, such as lipomas, tooth care, exercise, and grooming. We also explore the best approaches to selecting flea and tick preventatives and the potential health implications of chemicals and plastics on our pets. 

As someone who once contemplated a career in veterinary medicine, it was a true delight to interview Dr. Morgan- especially considering my allergies prevented me from pursuing that path! I encourage you to explore her insightful books and online resources because I am confident you will find them invaluable. Join me in this enlightening discussion that will undoubtedly shed light on essential aspects of pet care and welfare!

IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN:

Bio: Dr. Judy Morgan:

Judy Morgan DVM, CVA, CVCP, CVFT is a certified veterinary acupuncturist, chiropractitioner, and food therapist. After 36 years, Dr. Morgan retired from clinical practice in 2020. She now focuses on empowering pet parents to provide longer, healthier lives for their pets through educational courses, seminars, blogs, and speaking engagements. Her e-commerce site, Naturally Healthy Pets, provides high-quality products to enrich the lives of animals. She is a best-selling author of four books and has appeared on CNN, PBS, ABC, CBS, NBC, and hundreds of radio shows and podcasts. Her goal is to change the lives of over ten million pets by teaching pet owners worldwide how to minimize the use of chemicals, vaccinations, and poor-quality processed food while using natural healing therapies.

Connect with Cynthia Thurlow

Follow on Twitter, Instagram & LinkedIn

Check out Cynthia’s website

Connect with Dr. Judy Morgan

On her website

Facebook and Instagram

The American Holistic Veterinary Medical Association

Dr. Morgan’s books are available on Amazon, Barnes and Noble, or her website.

I am delighted to connect with Dr. Nicky Keay today. She is a medical doctor specializing in exercise endocrinology and the author of The Myths of Menopause. 

In our conversation, we explore the taboos surrounding menopause, menstruation, and periods, looking at the narratives, trends, and language that shape our understanding of those phases in a woman's life. We dive into the perimenopause and menopause symptoms Dr. Keay refers to as Pandora's box, the neuro-endocrine regulation of eating behaviors, and the relative energy deficiency associated with restriction, over-fasting, and over-exercising. We also discuss how lab testing during these transitions can lead to uncertainty, the impact of smoking on ovarian senescence, and menopausal hormone therapy. 

This conversation is invaluable, and I look forward to inviting Dr. Keay back for a follow-up discussion later this year.

IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN:

Bio: Dr Nicky Keay BA, MA, MB, BChir (Cantab), MRCP 

Nicky is a medical doctor with specialist expertise in exercise endocrinology. Her research into the impacts of lifestyle, nutrition, and exercise on hormone networks has been published in peer-reviewed journals. She is the author of “Hormones, Health and Human Potential” and editor of "Myths of Menopause". Nicky holds the position of Honorary Clinical Lecturer in the Division of Medicine, at University College London. Nicky’s clinical endocrine work is particularly done with women experiencing perimenopause and menopause and all ages of exercisers, dancers, and athletes, focusing on relative energy deficiency in sports (REDs). Nicky’s passion and objective are to provide a more personalized approach to female hormone health to optimize the overall health and performance of the individual. Nicky is the medical advisor to Scottish Ballet and a keen ballet dancer.

Connect with Cynthia Thurlow  

Connect with Dr. Nicky Keay

In this episode of the Everyday Wellness Podcast, host Cynthia Thurlow shares insights from episodes that are invaluable to listeners! Joining Cynthia are Dr. Mariza Snyder (Episode 370), Dr. Suzanne Fenske (Episode 392), Dr. Stacy Sims (Episode 406), and Dr. Mary Claire Haver (Episode 376). 

They will cover many essentials related to perimenopause and menopause including recognizing symptoms, strategies to help navigate, and management tools. 

Be sure to tune in to strategies and tools to help you take control of your health!

IN THIS EPISODE:

Connect with Cynthia Thurlow

Connect with Dr. Mariza Snyder 

Connect with Dr. Suzanne Fenske 

Connect with Dr. Stacy Sims

Connect with Dr. Mary Claire Haver

Today, I have the privilege of connecting with an exceptional friend and colleague, McCall McPherson! 

McCall’s profound expertise in thyroid health has paved the way for a revolutionary approach to functional medicine. As the visionary behind the cutting-edge Modern Thyroid Clinic in Austin, Texas, and a former TEDx speaker, she joins me to discuss the intricate differences between Grave’s Disease and Hashimoto's. 

In this episode, we also delve into the unique treatment methods of the Modern Thyroid Clinic and the crucial role of comprehensive lab work support. Our conversation ventures into disordered eating, the detrimental effects of yo-yo dieting, and the starvation diet mentality, emphasizing the significance of metabolic potency. We also explore the impact of synthetic oral contraceptives, the importance of informed consent in hormone resets, and the merits of hormone replacement therapy. 

My discussion with McCall encompasses a wide range of strategies that include the utilization of low-dose Naltrexone, GLP-one agonists, fasting techniques, and the pervasive effects of fear-driven food restrictions and weight loss resistance. 

Join me as I share our enlightening conversation that promises to leave you informed and inspired!

IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN:

About McCall

McCall McPherson is the Founder of Modern Thyroid Clinic, a thyroid-centered functional medicine practice in Austin, Texas, and the owner and Chief-Hope-Giver of Thyroid Nation. She is a physician assistant, TEDx speaker, and thyroid expert by way of being a thyroid patient. Her passion is helping women rebuild their lives from the devastating effects of thyroid and hormonal disorders. Her philosophy is simple: There is no reason to still have thyroid symptoms.

Connect with Cynthia Thurlow

Follow on Twitter

Instagram

LinkedIn

Check out Cynthia’s website

Connect with McCall McPherson

On her website

On Facebook

TikTok

YouTube

Instagram

Sign up for McCall’s courses

Today, I am excited to connect with Dr. Scott Sherr, a board-certified internal medicine physician certified to practice health optimization medicine. He is the COO of Troscriptions, a range of physician-formulated, pharmaceutical-grade precision-dosed supplements containing innovative ingredients like methylene blue, with various formulas for energy, focus, sleep, stress, immune support, and more.

Our discussion today focuses on the GABAergic system, the parasympathetic system, and maladaptive responses to stress. We explore the importance of GABA and its interaction with progesterone, looking at the impact of stress, lifestyle, alcohol, and benzodiazepines on GABA health. Dr Sherr also explains the role of methylene blue and shares his insights on supplements that support GABA. 

This insightful show is the first in a series of valuable and informative podcasts with Dr. Sherr.

IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN:

Connect with Cynthia Thurlow  

Connect with Dr. Scott Sherr

I am thrilled today to connect with my friend and colleague, Dr. Elizabeth Chance, who is double board-certified as a facial plastic surgeon and a reconstructive surgeon. 

Dr. Chance has dedicated her career to the art and science of esthetic surgery. In our conversation today, we dive into skin aging and reframe the aging process. We explain how we lose 30% of our collagen in the first five years of menopause and an added 2.1% in each following year. We explore the impact of supplements and collagen peptides, looking at the listener concerns, like scar revisions, under-eye wrinkles, neck laxity, and topical skincare, and the benefits of estrogen-specific interventions like neuromodulators, hyaluronic acid biostimulants, and resurfacing lasers. 

You will love this enlightening conversation with Dr. Elizabeth Chance.

IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN:

Connect with Cynthia Thurlow  

Connect with Dr. Elizabeth Chance 

Today, I have the privilege of connecting with Dr. Nicole LePera, the Holistic Psychologist. 

Dr. LePera did her clinical psychology training at Cornell University. She has touched the lives of countless individuals seeking growth and transformation through her popular Instagram account and has written several self-help books, including How to Do the Work and How to Be the Love You Seek. 

In our discussion today, we dive into the current impact of our childhood experiences, exploring crises of faith, the dark night of the soul, inner child archetypes, and shame. Dr. LePera sheds light on the dynamics of dysfunctional patterns, triggers, and regression while also examining the role of generational and systemic beliefs, trauma, and the emerging science of heart-brain coherence and heart rate variability, sharing practical tips for cultivating presence in our bodies to assist us in processing our emotions.

Dr. LePera's work has been profoundly instrumental in my personal development journey, and I know you will find our conversation enlightening and enriching. 

IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN:

Connect with Cynthia Thurlow

Connect with Dr. Nicole LePera

Today, I am thrilled to reconnect with my friend and colleague, Dr Amie Hornaman. She is a popular and frequent guest on the podcast. 

Dr. Hornaman, known as the Thyroid Fixer, helps 1000s of individuals optimize their thyroid and hormones. She joins me today for a mini thyroid master class where we discuss the miscommunication surrounding thyroid health, the role of empowerment, and the impact of hormone replacement, and we dive into the physiology of the thyroid, the effects of thyroid pause, Hashimoto’s, and autoimmune conditions. We explore labs you need, elimination diets, molecular mimicry medications, and why iodine is essential for those with thyroid health issues. We also look into various supplements, including vitamin D, magnesium, iodine, and creatine, and the research surrounding black cumin seeds and T2. 

Today’s discussion with Dr. Amie Hornaman is invaluable as it will set you up for 2025 with all the information you require regarding the thyroid.

IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN:

Connect with Cynthia Thurlow  

Connect with Dr. Amie Hornaman