Aging is inevitable, but decline is not. This episode of Innovate and Elevate features a powerful conversation with Dr. Vonda Wright, an orthopedic surgeon and advocate for aging with power. She makes a compelling case for women to take control of their health long before menopause, starting in their 30s and 40s, or even earlier. Using the moving story of her patient, Miriam, who suffered a preventable hip fracture, Dr. Wright highlights the critical, often-overlooked link between estrogen and bone health. She unpacks the staggering statistics on bone density loss and osteoporosis, revealing that one in two women will experience a fracture. The message is clear: our midlife journey isn't just about managing symptoms, but about aging with power, which starts with proactive steps to build and protect your body. This is a must-listen for every woman who loves HRT and wants to live a better, stronger second half.

What You’ll Learn from this Episode:

• Proactive Steps for Your 30s & 40s: Learn the "Vonda rules" for proactive health, including why it's crucial to get a baseline DEXA scan, REMS scan, how to feed your bones with protein, and the importance of lifting heavy weights.
• The Truth About Estrogen: Understand the profound, protective role of estrogen in bone health and why the widespread fear of hormone replacement therapy is often based on old, misinterpreted data. Dr. Wright explains why there is "zero debate" about its preventative role on bone.
• A Call to Action: Discover practical, actionable steps you can take today—from seeking out your own DEXA Scan to starting a progressive weightlifting routine—to invest in your future health and avoid becoming a burden on your loved ones.

Connect with Sharon:

• On LinkedIn
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Connect with Dr Vonda Wright:

• On LinkedIn
• On Instagram
• Learn more on her website
• Buy Unbreakable now

Additional Resources:

• FDA Menopause Panel Video
• Estrogen Matters by Avrum Bluming and Carol Tavris
• Adesso

Skip to the Good Part:

00:00 Introduction to Estrogen and Women's Health

02:20 The Impact of Hip Fractures on Women

04:37 Understanding Bone Health and Estrogen

10:51 The Importance of DEXA Scans

18:19 Making Informed Decisions About Estrogen

25:33 Preventative Measures for Bone Health

32:17 Empowering Women Through Knowledge and Action

Please note: The information on this podcast is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult with a healthcare professional regarding your individual health needs.

About Dr Vonda Wright: Dr. Vonda Wright is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon and elite sports physician who has dedicated over 20 years to research on optimizing aging. She is also a public speaker, author, and health innovator, with a focus on redefining women's longevity and wellness. Her work helps women navigate and thrive through menopause and other life changes. She has authored several books, including "Unbreakable" and hosts the "HOT For Your Health" podcast.

About Sharon: Sharon Kedar is a co-founder and partner at Northpond Ventures, a multi-billion-dollar science-driven venture capital firm. Her extensive career includes leadership roles at Sands Capital and McKinsey & Company, and she is a published author on personal finance. As the host of the Innovate and Elevate podcast, she passionately advocates for menopause care and HRT (hormone replacement therapy), challenging the silence around women's health. She aims to help women navigate midlife and achieve longevity by aging with power. Sharon holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and is a CFA charter holder. She lives in the Washington, DC area with her husband, Greg, their three kids, and their dog Bo.

This podcast is produced by Brave Moon Podcasts.