Peptides, Hormones & Strength: What Actually Works in Midlife with Dr. Chris Asandra and Maria Chase

What happens when the workouts that used to work… stop working?So many women hit their 40s and feel like the rules suddenly changed.Energy shifts. Sleep becomes unpredictable. Muscle feels harder to maintain. And despite doing all the “right” things, the results don’t always follow.In this episode of The Iconic Midlife, we’re breaking down what’s actually happening in the body during midlife — and how women can rethink fitness, metabolism, and recovery in a way that actually works.I’m joined by Dr. Chris Asandra, a physician specializing in regenerative and longevity medicine, and Maria Chase, founder of BURN LA, a fitness studio with a front-row seat to how women’s bodies and needs evolve over time.Together, we explore the intersection of hormones, strength training, and metabolic health — and unpack one of the most talked-about (and misunderstood) topics in wellness right now: peptides.This is a conversation about cutting through the noise — and understanding what truly matters if you want to feel strong, energized, and confident in midlife.In This Episode, We Cover:What’s actually happening in the body during perimenopause and midlifeWhy workouts that once worked may stop delivering the same resultsThe critical role of muscle in metabolism, energy, and long-term healthHow women should be thinking about strength training in their 40s and beyondThe balance between pushing your body and prioritizing recoveryWellness trends vs. real science — what’s worth your time and what’s notPeptides explained: what they are, how they work, and whether they live up to the hypeThe biggest misconceptions women have about aging, fitness, and hormonesSimple, actionable shifts to feel better in your body over the next six monthsAbout the Guests:Dr. Chris Asandra is a physician specializing in regenerative medicine, hormone optimization, and longevity-focused care. His work focuses on helping patients optimize performance, recovery, and long-term health through advanced medical and wellness strategies.Maria Chase is the founder of BURN LA, a Los Angeles-based fitness studio known for its high-energy, results-driven approach to strength and conditioning across all stages of life.If This Episode Resonated:Share it with a friend who’s navigating midlife and trying to make sense of the changes happening in her body.And if you’re enjoying the show, make sure you’re following The Iconic Midlife on your favorite podcast platform — it helps more women discover these conversations.Join the Inner Circle: https://the-iconic-midlife-with-roxy-manning.kit.com/3433416614Want bold guests, unfiltered stories, and iconic midlife insight in your inbox?Listen & FollowThe Iconic Midlife is where smart, stylish women over 40 come to rebrand midlife on their terms.New episodes every Tuesday. Bonus game episode drops on Thursdays.Tap “Follow” so you never miss a moment.Listen on:Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-iconic-midlife-with-roxy-manning/id1817484587Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4FRDzq3AalXaqfpfWq7dlm?si=7e91db12ba1f4bfaAmazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/ff905ad8-332f-430e-a040-ce1ba5047483/the-iconic-midlife-with-roxy-manningLet’s ConnectSocial media: @theiconicmidlife (show) | @redcarpetroxy (host)• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@theiconicmidlifeFree Download: 5 Power Moves Every Midlife Woman Should Be Making​This high-impact worksheet is your shortcut to owning your next chapter—on your terms.Grab your free worksheet here​Need more energy, fewer symptoms, and a better night’s sleep?​I'm obsessed with Hop Box, a women-founded supplement brand designed for our midlife needs.Use code ROXY for 10% off sitewide.​Shop Hop Box now​If you’ve ever wanted real data on what’s actually happening inside your body, I can’t recommend Function Health enough. It’s one of the most comprehensive ways to track your biomarkers, hormone health, metabolic markers, and long-term wellness—without guesswork or overwhelm. This is about informed choices, not fear.If you’re curious, you can join here: Function Health