The Founder's Series with Dr. Rebbecca Hertel

Explore the neuroscience of brain fog, memory changes, and hearing issues during menopause, especially for women founders and leaders. Understand the physiological changes, research findings, and practical strategies to support brain health during this critical transition.

key topics:

Hormonal changes and brain function
Research on menopause and cognitive decline
Practical strategies for supporting brain health during menopause

sound bites

"Hearing decline happens faster at menopause."
"Estrogen receptors are in your cochlea."
"Hearing loss increases dementia risk."

resources:

• Brain Volumetric Changes in Menopausal Women – PubMed
• Hormone Therapy FAQs – The Menopause Society
• NAMS 2022 Hormone Therapy Position Statement
• Menopause and Risk of Hearing Loss – PubMed
• Menopause Impacts Human Brain – Scientific Reports

Work With Dr. Rebbecca

If you want personalized support for perimenopause, menopause, metabolism, hormones, sleep, and midlife care:

🌐https://www.osteopathicmidlifehealth.com/clarity-visit 📩 Book your intake visi

📰 Join the https://www.osteopathicmidlifehealth.com/newsletter ...

📱 Follow on Instagramdrrebbeccaherteldo_ , LinkedIn, Facebook_

_🎧 Clinicians: Listen on _Pinnacle for CME

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📤 Share this episode with a friend who needs midlife science & sanity Your reviews help women find evidence-based support in a world that still underestimates midlife.

What does it really mean to redefine women’s health in midlife?

In this powerful conversation, Dr. Jessica Shepherd, MD, MBA, FACOG shares her journey from medical training to becoming a leading voice in women’s health. As a board-certified OB/GYN, Chief Medical Officer of Hers, and author of Generation M, Dr. Shepherd brings a fresh, empowering perspective on menopause, midlife wellness, leadership, and the future of care for women.

Together, we explore how community, mentorship, resilience, and innovation can help women navigate midlife with more confidence, clarity, and support. From telehealth and entrepreneurship to diversity in medicine and the gap between lifespan and health span, this episode is packed with insight for women, clinicians, and anyone passionate about better health outcomes.

If you have ever felt like midlife is misunderstood, underestimated, or oversimplified, this conversation will give you a more grounded and empowering lens.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Dr. Shepherd’s path from medical training to women’s health advocacy

• Why midlife is a transition, not a crisis

• The role of mentorship and community in medicine and leadership

• How telehealth is changing women’s wellness

• The importance of authenticity, consistency, and resilience

• Menopause, longevity, caregiving, and the health span gap

• Why diversity and representation matter in healthcare

Connect with Dr. Jessica Shepherd:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicashepherdmd/

Explore more:

Join the Modern Meno Community: https://www.instagram.com/modernmeno/

Generation M, Shop the Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09V4X7V7X

Work With Dr. Rebbecca:

For personalized support with perimenopause, menopause, metabolism, hormones, sleep, and midlife care:

Book a consultation: https://www.osteopathicmidlifehealth.com/book

Join the newsletter: https://www.osteopathicmidlifehealth.com/newsletter

Follow Dr. Rebbecca on social media for more evidence-based midlife support.

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Share this episode with a friend who needs more midlife science and sanity

Your support helps more women find evidence-based care in a world that still underestimates midlife.

Why are so many doctors leaving traditional healthcare?

In this episode, Dr. Katherine Johnson opens up about her bold transition from academic medicine to private practice and reveals what’s really broken inside the modern healthcare system. From the pressures of the insurance model to the growing crisis of physician burnout, this conversation uncovers why more physicians are rethinking the way medicine is practiced.

Dr. Johnson also shares how she’s building a more personalized, data-driven, and patient-centered approach through precision medicine — one that gives both doctors and patients more freedom, better care, and better outcomes.

This episode is for physicians, healthcare professionals, and anyone who wants to understand the future of medicine, the hidden problems in healthcare, and what true patient-first care can look like.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why Dr. Katherine Johnson left academic medicine
• The hidden problems with the insurance-based model
• How physician burnout is affecting the healthcare industry
• What it takes to build a private practice
• Why patient-centric care matters more than ever
• How precision medicine is changing healthcare
• What the future of medicine could look like

Chapters:

00:00 Career Transition: Academic Medicine to Private Practice

16:36 Challenges of the Insurance Model

30:27 Challenges in Healthcare

37:07 Patient-Centric Care

46:02 Empowering Physicians

51:25 The Future of Medicine

#DrKatherineJohnson #PrivatePractice #AcademicMedicine #Healthcare #PhysicianBurnout #PrecisionMedicine #PatientCare #FutureOfMedicine #DoctorPodcast #HealthcareInnovation

Dr. Amanda Townsend shares her journey from orthopedic physical therapy to pelvic health, highlighting the lack of education and awareness in women's health. She emphasizes the connection between pelvic health and orthopedics, advocating for orthopedic knowledge in pelvic health practice. Additionally, she discusses the importance of educating individuals about pelvic floor dysfunction and its impact on daily life. The conversation covers a range of topics including navigating neurodivergence in children and adults, transitioning from an insurance model to a cash-based model, balancing personal and professional growth, and the creation of Unbound Pelvis and Root and Rise Consulting. Dr. Amanda Townsend shares her personal and professional journey, health challenges, and the vision behind her clinical brand and consulting services.

Takeaways

• Pelvic Health and Orthopedics Connection
• Lack of Education and Awareness in Women's Health Transition from insurance model to cash-based model
• Navigating neurodivergence in children and adults
• Balancing personal and professional growth

Root and Rise Consulting - https://rootandriseconsulting.com
Unbound Pelvis - https://unboundpelvis.com

guest links

Instagram - https://instagram.com/root_rise_refine
Website - https://rootandriseconsulting.com

Work With Dr. Rebbecca

If you want personalized support for perimenopause, menopause, metabolism, hormones, sleep, and midlife care:

🌐https://www.osteopathicmidlifehealth.com/book 📩 Book a consultation

📰 Join thehttps://www.osteopathicmidlifehealth.com/newsletter ...

📱 Follow on Instagramdrrebbeccaherteldo_ , LinkedIn, Facebook_

🎧 Clinicians: Listen on Pinnacle for CME

Support the Show 👍 Like 🔔 Subscribe ⭐ Rate & Review

📤 Share this episode with a friend who needs midlife science & sanity Your reviews help women find evidence-based support in a world that still underestimates midlife.

In this episode, we break down the financial reality of being a doctor and why the public perception of physician income often misses the full picture. We unpack the hidden costs, overhead, and financial complexity physicians face, plus how the healthcare middleman model and insurance companies shape patient expectations and medical practice decisions.

We also discuss direct care models, what it means to participate (or not participate) in insurance, and how understanding the system can help patients make better healthcare decisions.

If you’ve ever wondered why healthcare feels so expensive, why doctors seem “well-paid” but still face massive financial pressure, or how insurance influences care, this conversation will give you clarity.

Chapters:
00:00 The Financial Reality of Medicine
07:04 Conditionality and Loyalty
14:06 Direct Care and Insurance Participation
19:57 The Role of Insurance in Healthcare
26:39 Understanding Healthcare Systems

#healthcare #healthinsurance #doctorlife #directprimarycare #medicalpractice #healthcaresystem #healthcarecosts

Dr. Aoife O'Sullivan shares her journey from medical school in Ireland to her work experience in emergency medicine. The conversation covers her medical education, residency experiences, and challenges faced during training, providing valuable insights into the medical training process. The conversation covers the transition to direct primary care, challenges in primary care, work-life balance, specialization in menopause care, the impact of midlife on professional life, and the transition to entrepreneurship. It highlights the importance of mentorship, support for women entrepreneurs, and the need for business education for clinicians. The speakers share insights on work-life balance, challenges in primary care, and the impact of midlife on professional life, emphasizing the need for flexibility and the importance of empathy and understanding in patient care.

Takeaways

• Medical School and Residency Experience
• Challenges in Medical Training Direct Primary Care
• Midlife Career Transition

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Medical Background
• 10:58 Transition to Medical School in the US
• 19:59 Residency Experience in Ireland vs. the US
• 26:02 Work Experience in Emergency Medicine
• 33:17 Work-Life Balance and Flexibility
• 43:09 Transition to Entrepreneurship

In this conversation, Dr. Rebbecca Hertel discusses the evolution of dietary guidelines, focusing on the shift from the traditional food pyramid to a new emphasis on protein and healthy fats. She highlights the impact of these changes on midlife women, addressing the importance of personalized nutrition and the role of nutrition policy in shaping public health. Dr. Hertel also explores the business implications of these guidelines and the need for a more individualized approach to health and nutrition.

Takeaways

• Healthy eating advice from the past has failed many, especially women.
• The new dietary guidelines emphasize protein and healthy fats.
• Ultra-processed foods are linked to various health issues.
• Midlife women need to prioritize protein to combat muscle loss.
• Nutrition guidelines are influenced by business decisions and supply chains.
• Personalization in nutrition is crucial for effective health strategies.
• The shift in dietary guidelines reflects a better understanding of human biology.
• Nutrition isn't morality; it's about finding what works for you.
• Real food and recovery are essential for health and success.
• The new guidelines suggest minimal to no alcohol consumption.

Sound bites

"Protein is king. Not just a little chicken."
"You cannot starve your way to health or success."
"Thriving in midlife isn't about eating less."

Work With Dr. Rebbecca

If you want personalized support for perimenopause, menopause, metabolism, hormones, sleep, and midlife care:

🌐https://www.osteopathicmidlifehealth.com/book 📩 Book a consultation

📰 Join the community-

https://www.osteopathicmidlifehealth.com/newsletter ...

📱 Follow on Instagramdrrebbeccaherteldo_ , LinkedIn, Facebook_

🎧 Clinicians: Listen on Pinnacle for CME

Support the Show 👍 Like 🔔 Subscribe ⭐ Rate & Review

📤 Share this episode with a friend who needs midlife science & sanity Your reviews help women find evidence-based support in a world that still underestimates midlife.

The conversation delves into Kacy Fleming's career transitions, purpose-seeking journey, and the challenges of starting a business. It also explores the impact of imposter syndrome and the transformative power of a mindset shift on business success. The conversation covers the journey of entrepreneurship, including the challenges, fears, and successes experienced by business owners. It emphasizes the importance of planning, community support, and the value of embracing an abundance mindset. Additionally, it highlights the significance of celebrating small wins and the need for workplace support for midlife women.

Takeaways

• Career transitions and purpose
• Navigating imposter syndrome Embracing an abundance mindset
• The importance of celebrating small wins

Chapters

• 00:00 Career Transitions and Purpose
• 06:14 Seeking Purpose and Transitioning Careers
• 15:40 Mindset Shift and Business Transformation
• 24:31 Navigating New Business Challenges
• 32:24 Taking the Leap into Entrepreneurship
• 38:03 Sharing Learnings and Failures
• 43:05 Business Focus and Offerings

How to contact Kacy Fleming via IG and to follow: @kca_fleming; @thefuchsiatent

Work With Dr. Rebbecca

If you want personalized support for perimenopause, menopause, metabolism, hormones, sleep, and midlife care:

🌐https://www.osteopathicmidlifehealth.com/book 📩 Book a consultation

📰 Join thehttps://www.osteopathicmidlifehealth.com/newsletter...

📱 Follow on Instagramdrrebbeccaherteldo , LinkedIn, Facebook

🎧 Clinicians: Listen on Pinnacle for CME

Support the Show 👍 Like 🔔 Subscribe ⭐ Rate & Review

📤 Share this episode with a friend who needs midlife science & sanity Your reviews help women find evidence-based support in a world that still underestimates midlife.

In this episode of the Founder Series, Dr. Rebbecca Hertel interviews Dr. Christine Hart-Kress, a seasoned healthcare leader with over 30 years of experience in women's health. They discuss Dr. Hart-Kress's Journey from a Military women’s health nurse practitioner to the civilian healthcare system and eventually to a telemedicine practice owner. The conversation highlights the importance of mentorship, the challenges faced by healthcare professionals transitioning from traditional models to private practice, and the unique dynamics of providing care to women in midlife and menopause. Dr. Hart-Kress shares her insights on the evolving landscape of women's health and the significance of community support among healthcare providers.

Takeaways

• Invest in your healthcare for longevity.
• Community support is crucial for healthcare professionals.
• Transitioning to private practice requires a mindset shift.
• Women should be selfish about their health needs.
• Healthcare costs can be lower outside of insurance models.

Follow Dr. Christine Hart-Kress on IG: christinehartkress_dnp

Work With Dr. Rebbecca

If you want personalized support for perimenopause, menopause, metabolism, hormones, sleep, and midlife care:

🌐 http://OsteopathicMidlifeHealth.com 📩 Book a consultation

📰 Join thehttps://visit.osteopathicmidlifehealth.com/menopause-newsletter...

📱 Follow on Instagram drrebbeccaherteldo LinkedIn, Facebook

🎧 Clinicians: Listen on Pinnacle for CME

Support the Show 👍 Like 🔔 Subscribe ⭐ Rate & Review

📤 Share this episode with a friend who needs midlife science & sanity Your reviews help women find evidence-based support in a world that still underestimates midlife.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Rebbecca Hertel discusses her experiences at the Menopalooza event with Midlife Upgrade founder, Pam DeRose, and delves into the significance of GLP-1 medications in managing midlife health for women. She highlights the benefits of these medications, compares different types, and addresses common myths and misunderstandings. The discussion also touches on the importance of lifestyle changes and the role of concierge medicine in providing personalized care.

takeaways

• Dr. Rebbecca Hertel emphasizes the importance of community events like Menopalooza for women's health education.
• GLP-1 medications are revolutionizing the approach to weight management and metabolic health in midlife women.
• Understanding the differences between GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide is crucial for effective treatment.
• Managing side effects of GLP-1s requires careful monitoring and patient education.
• Lifestyle factors such as nutrition and exercise remain essential even when using GLP-1s.
• Concierge medicine offers a more personalized approach to patient care compared to traditional insurance models.
• Women in midlife often experience unique health challenges that can be addressed with tailored medical solutions.
• The conversation highlights the need for ongoing education about menopause and related health issues.
• Patients should seek healthcare providers who understand the nuances of GLP-1 therapy and women's health.
• Microdosing GLP-1s may be beneficial for some patients who struggle with standard doses.

How to find Midlife Upgrade: www.midlifeupgrade.com

Work With Dr. Rebbecca

If you want personalized support for perimenopause, menopause, metabolism, hormones, sleep, and midlife care:

🌐 http://OsteopathicMidlifeHealth.com 📩 Book a consultation

📰 Join thehttps://visit.osteopathicmidlifehealth.com/menopause-newsletter...

📱 Follow on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook

🎧 Clinicians: Listen on Pinnacle for CME

Support the Show 👍 Like 🔔 Subscribe ⭐ Rate & Review

📤 Share this episode with a friend who needs midlife science & sanity Your reviews help women find evidence-based support in a world that still underestimates midlife.