2. GLP-1s & Metabolic Health in Perimenopause & Menopause with Ann Konkoly, WHNP-BC

Weight frustration in perimenopause isn't just about vanity—it’s about a physiological shift that changes how our bodies handle fuel. In this episode, Dr. Rachel Pope sits down with midlife health expert Ann Konkoly to demystify GLP-1 medications (like Ozempic and Zepbound), the hidden dangers of visceral fat, and why the scale is often a "shitty measurement" for your actual health.In this episode, we discuss: The "Middle" Mystery: Why the "eat less, move more" mantra fails women in perimenopause and how this transition impacts weight maintenance. GLP-1s Beyond Weight Loss: Ann explains the metabolic benefits of these medications, including reducing neuroinflammation and protecting the heart and kidneys. The Hidden Danger of Visceral Fat: Why a "normal BMI" can be misleading and how internal fat affects your risk for chronic disease. Synergy with MHT: How optimizing cardiovascular health can create a safer "on-ramp" for starting hormone replacement therapy. Preserving Lean Muscle: Strategies for "muscle-centric medicine" to ensure weight loss doesn't come at the expense of your strength and bone density. The HOMA-IR Hack: A simple way to use fasting glucose and insulin levels to see if insulin resistance is your primary roadblock. Planning for your later years: Why the choices you make in your 40s and 50s determine your mobility and independence in your 80s and 90s.The "Proactive Midlife" Lab ChecklistAnn suggests asking your provider for these specific markers to get a true picture of your metabolic health: Fasting Insulin & Fasting Glucose (to calculate your HOMA-IR score). Lipid Panel (focusing on Triglycerides). Lipoprotein(a) & hs-CRP (markers of inflammation and genetic heart risk). Body Composition Analysis (to track muscle mass vs. visceral fat).About Ann:Ann Konkoly is a board-certified Nurse Practitioner, Certified Nurse Midwife, and Menopause Society Certified Practitioner. She is the founder and CEO of Kultivate Women’s Health in Beachwood, Ohio, where she specializes in evidence-based hormone therapy, metabolic health, and medical weight management.Connect with Ann: Website: www.kultivatewomenshealth.com/about Instagram: www.instagram.com/annkonkoly.npConnect with Dr. Rachel Pope: Website: ourwomanity.comSocial Media: @drrachelpope