Ep.64: Everything You Need to Know About GLP-1 Medications at Midlife with Amy Wrenn, NP

If you’ve been hearing all the buzz about GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, or Zepbound, and you’re wondering if they could be the right fit for you at midlife, this is the episode to press play on. We brought on nurse practitioner and health optimization expert Amy Wrenn to demystify what GLP-1s actually are, how they work, who they’re for, and what you really need to know about taking them during perimenopause and menopause. Amy is passionate, informed, and totally relatable—she cuts through the hype to bring clarity to a topic that’s been wrapped in confusion and judgment.In this conversation, we get real about our own experiences, bust some myths, talk side effects (yep, we go there), and explore the broader context of hormone therapy, weight gain, metabolic dysfunction, and the importance of doing what works for your individual body and life. Whether you’re curious, cautious, or already on a GLP-1, this is a must-listen packed with valuable insights.  Episode Highlights:[0:00] - Welcoming Amy Wrenn and kicking off our deep dive into GLP-1s [3:10] - What exactly are GLP-1s, and how do they work in your body? [5:00] - Understanding insulin resistance, perimenopause, and why midlife changes everything [6:57] - Real-life examples of "metabolic mayhem" that hits out of nowhere [8:03] - Challenging the lazy stereotype: GLP-1s are not a quick fix [10:08] - The far-reaching benefits: inflammation, PCOS, cognitive health, and more [12:10] - Social media hype vs. safe medical prescribing—know the difference [13:46] - Compounded medications vs. name-brand prescriptions: what to watch for [17:33] - Who qualifies for GLP-1s, and what do providers look for? [20:43] - It's not about skinny—it's about healthy: the real goal of treatment [22:34] - Common side effects: what to expect and how to manage them [25:25] - Nutrition matters: prioritizing protein, avoiding high-fat traps [26:38] - Surprising benefits: reduced alcohol cravings, better food boundaries [28:12] - Coming off GLP-1s: what it looks like, and when it’s okay to stay on [31:48] - Does your body adapt over time? Amy explains habituation and dosing [33:32] - The power trio: GLP-1s, HRT, and resistance training [36:08] - Hormone therapy explained: symptom relief vs. long-term prevention [40:51] - Why we’re not getting this info from our doctors—and how to change that [42:24] - Where to follow Amy and keep learning more  Links & ResourcesFollow Amy Wrenn, NP on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/np_wrenn If today's discussion resonated with you or sparked curiosity, please rate, follow, and share "Insights from the Couch" with others. Your support helps us reach more people and continue providing valuable insights. Here’s to finding our purposes and living a life full of meaning and joy. Stay tuned for more!Ever stayed quiet to keep the peace and felt yourself disappear? The Cost of Quiet is for anyone who avoids conflict and pays the price. Reclaim your voice, strengthen your relationships, and experience real peace. Order your copy and join the movement: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book🎙️ Love the podcast? Come talk about episodes with us inside The Midlife Chat. It’s a free, private community just for women at midlife who want to keep these conversations going. We’ve created this space for real talk, fresh resources, and honest connection—where you can share ideas and resources, ask questions, and get support from women navigating the same season.  Come join us—we’d love to have you!👉 Join The Midlife Chat here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/795863256460970/Order The Cost of Quiet now! Colette’s new book, The Cost of Quiet: How to Have the Hard Conversations that Create Secure, Lasting Love, launched February 3rd. Order your copy today: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-bookRecognized by FeedSpot:Top 60 Couples Therapy Podcasts | Top 100 U.S. Mental Health Podcasts | Top 100 Relaxation Podcasts