Heart Health for Women: Understanding Risks, Prevention, and Life-Changing Stories with Dr. Michelle Dew

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death for women, yet so many women still don't realize how much power they have to change their future health. In this eye-opening conversation, Dr. Michelle Dew shares why understanding your heart health early can save your life later. From the impact of stress, hormones, menopause, and pregnancy to the importance of knowing your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar numbers, this episode breaks down heart health in a practical and empowering way. Dr. Dew also explains how women's symptoms often look different than men's, why prevention matters at every age, and how small daily choices can create lasting change. Through honest stories, expert insight, and compassionate guidance, this conversation reminds women that taking care of their heart is not selfish—it's essential.  Key Takeaways:   Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women, but many cases are preventable through lifestyle changes and early awareness.   Women's heart attack symptoms can look different than men's, including fatigue, shortness of breath, jaw pain, or shoulder discomfort.   Every decade matters—your 20s, 30s, and 40s are all important seasons for building healthy habits and knowing your health numbers.   Stress, smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol all significantly impact long-term heart health.   Simple daily habits like walking, reducing stress, staying active, and listening to your body can protect your heart for years to come.   We couldn't highlight incredible stories like this without the support of our sponsor, CommunityAmerica Credit Union. Thank you for helping us promote connection, well-being, and stronger communities. If you're looking for trusted financial wellbeing resources, we invite you to connect with their team and take the next step toward greater financial confidence.  About Dr. Michell Dew:  Michelle Dew, MD, FACC, is an award-winning, Board-certified cardiologist with AdventHealth Medical Group. She sees patients at our cardiology practices in Merriam, Lawrence and Lansing, Kansas.  After earning her medical degree from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine, Dr. Dew completed her internal medicine residency at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. She went on to complete her cardiovascular disease fellowship, including service as chief cardiology fellow, at the University of Arizona-Tucson.  Dr. Dew's clinical interests include women's cardiac issues including during pregnancy and menopause; men's cardiac care; and general cardiac care such as prevention, maintenance and pre- and post-surgical care. Her vast clinical and leadership experience have earned her countless honors, including being named a Kansas City Top Doctor by Ingram's Magazine in 2021, 2022 and 2023.  Connect with Dr. Michelle Dew at:  https://www.facebook.com/drmichelledew  https://www.instagram.com/drmichelledew/  https://www.adventhealth.com/doctors/michelle-dew-md-facc-1003853763  Connect with Dr. Michelle and Bayleigh at:  https://smallchangesbigshifts.com  [email protected]  https://www.linkedin.com/company/smallchangesbigshifts  https://www.facebook.com/SmallChangesBigShifts  https://www.instagram.com/smallchangesbigshiftsco  https://www.youtube.com/@smallchangesbigshiftsco    Thanks for listening!  Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.  Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!  Subscribe to the podcast  If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.  Leave us an Apple Podcasts review  Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.