In this episode of the Founder Series, Dr. Rebbecca Hertel discusses the challenges and opportunities of navigating midlife, particularly in the context of menopause and women's health. She emphasizes the importance of advocacy, reframing the conversation around hormones, and the critical role of estradiol in overall health. The discussion also highlights the significance of bone health in menopause and the need for ongoing education and support for women during this transition. Dr. Hertel encourages listeners to embrace slow seasons as opportunities for meaningful work and to consider the future of midlife care, including the potential expansion into men's health.

In this episode of the Founder Series, Dr. Rebbecca Hertel discusses her journey in midlife health, the evolution of her podcast, and the challenges of building a telemedicine practice. She emphasizes the importance of personal storytelling, authenticity in social media, and the need for consistency in business. The episode introduces new segments, including 'The Midlife Minute,' which focuses on creating meaningful change without overwhelm, and 'In the Lab,' which explores the science behind habit formation and health. Dr. Hertel encourages listeners to take small, achievable steps towards their health and wellness goals.

In this episode, Dr. Rebbecca Hertel shares her experiences navigating the complexities of midlife and motherhood, particularly as her adult children return home. She discusses the challenges of balancing family dynamics, responsibilities, and her professional growth as a founder. Dr. Hertel emphasizes the importance of communication within the family, setting boundaries, and the lessons learned through both parenting and leadership roles. She reflects on the non-linear nature of growth and the significance of personal fulfillment amidst the chaos of family life.

In this episode, Dr. Rebecca Hertel opens up about her journey through medical school and the realities of being a physician. She shares her personal experience with trauma, burnout, and the mental health toll of medical training, including hazing culture and emotional suppression.

Now an entrepreneur and Certified Menopause Specialist, Dr. Hertel discusses the strategies she developed to cope and heal—and why creating systemic support for mental health in the medical field is more urgent than ever.

This conversation offers insight into the resilience required to navigate both the healthcare system and life as a physician, while advocating for transparency, prevention, and cultural change.

Trigger Warnings: This episode contains discussion of suicide, trauma, and hazing in medical training.

Referenced Data on Physician Suicide:

Recent national data estimates the annual number of physician suicides in the U.S. between 119 and 400, with variance due to underreporting and differences in methodology. A CDC NVDRS analysis (2010–2015) found ~119 suicides per year, likely a conservative number. Other sources, including the American Academy of Pediatrics, cite 300–400 per year.

Key findings:

• Female physicians have a higher suicide risk than women in the general population.
• Male physicians have a similar or slightly lower risk than male non-physicians.
• The most recent national cohort data (2017–2021) shows:
  • 24–28 suicides per 100,000 person-years for male physicians
  • 10–14 per 100,000 for female physicians

These numbers emphasize the continued need for targeted mental health support and cultural change within the medical field.

References:

1. Gold KJ et al. Psychology, Health & Medicine. 2022
2. McClafferty HH et al. Pediatrics. 2022
3. Duarte D et al. JAMA Psychiatry. 2020
4. Makhija H et al. JAMA Psychiatry. 2025
5. Ye GY et al. Journal of Psychiatric Research. 2021

Dr. Hertel is now seeing patients via private telemedicine as a Certified Menopause Specialist. Learn more: https://visit.osteopathicmidlifehealt...

Navigating Grief and Medical School: A Journey of Resilience

Join Dr. Rebecca Hertel as she opens up about her journey through medical school while dealing with the profound loss of her sister. This episode explores the intersection of personal grief and professional growth, offering insights into resilience and healing.

Chapters:

Introduction to Dr. Rebecca Hertel (0:00)

Background and motivation for pursuing medicine.

The Bittersweet Start of Medical School (5:00)

Receiving acceptance into medical school amidst family tragedy.

Navigating Grief (10:00)

Coping with the loss of a sister and its impact on life and studies.

Family Support and Resilience (20:00)

The role of family in overcoming challenges and maintaining focus.

Lessons Learned and Moving Forward (30:00)

How personal experiences shaped her approach to medicine and patient care.

Tune in to hear Dr. Hertel's inspiring story and the valuable lessons she shares. Subscribe now to stay updated on future episodes.