Energized with Dr. Mariza

Why do so many women enter perimenopause feeling like the rug has been pulled out from under them? In this powerful conversation, Dr. Mariza sits down with integrative medicine physician and menopause expert Dr. Melinda Ring to explore why perimenopause often feels so destabilizing and why so many women feel blindsided by symptoms they were never warned about. Together, they unpack the profound neuroendocrine changes happening during the perimenopause transition and why symptoms like sleep disruption, anxiety, brain fog, overwhelm, stress sensitivity, and feeling "not like yourself" often become some of the earliest signs that something is shifting. Dr. Ring explains the critical connection between hormones, the stress response system, sleep quality, nervous system regulation, and long-term health outcomes. They also discuss why traditional medical approaches have historically fallen short for women, the growing role of hormone replacement therapy, and why individualized care matters more than ever. The conversation dives deep into HPA axis dysfunction, trauma, chronic stress, self-compassion, resilience, and the importance of helping women feel safe in their bodies during a time of tremendous change. If you've ever wondered whether what you're experiencing is normal—or if you've found yourself saying, "I don't feel like myself anymore"—this episode offers both validation and practical guidance. Dr. Melinda Ring Dr. Melinda Ring is a board-certified physician, integrative medicine expert, educator, and internationally recognized leader in women's health and menopause care. She serves as Director of the Osher Center for Integrative Health and is passionate about helping women navigate perimenopause and menopause through evidence-based, whole-person care that addresses hormones, lifestyle, stress, sleep, and long-term health optimization. IN THIS EPISODE Why perimenopause often feels so overwhelming and unexpected The connection between sleep disruption, hormones, and brain health Why many women feel like they "don't feel like themselves" anymore The role of HPA axis dysfunction and chronic stress during midlife How trauma and long-term stress influence the menopause transition The evolving conversation around hormone replacement therapy Why individualized hormone care matters more than one-size-fits-all protocols How women can build resilience, safety, and self-compassion during perimenopause QUOTES“Sleep is the force multiplier.” “You can't heal in survival mode.” “The brain is reorganizing, not just the ovaries.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Use code ENERGIZED and get 10% off on your Troscription Order http://troscriptions.com/ENERGIZED Sign Up Now for the "Advanced Integrative Menopause Care for Clinicians" Course Training with Dr. Melinda Dr. Melinda Website https://www.drmelindaring.com/signup Dr. Melinda Instagram Dr. Melinda Facebook Dr. Melinda Tiktok Dr. Melinda Youtube RELATED EPISODES  756: What Low-Grade Inflammation Is Really Doing to Your Hormones, Brain & Metabolism with Dr. Mariza 755: What If Your Body Isn’t Broken, Just Undernourished? The Missing Link Between Nutrients, Hormones & Energy with Ryan Woodburry 754: How to Find Joy When Life Doesn’t Go According to Plan with Amberly Lago 717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause

What if inflammation is the missing link behind so many of the symptoms women experience after 40? In this solo episode, Dr. Mariza breaks down the powerful connection between low-grade chronic inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, hormone changes, brain health, energy production, and accelerated aging. She explains why inflammation is far more than an immune system issue and how it silently influences nearly every aspect of health during perimenopause and menopause. Many women assume that fatigue, brain fog, stubborn belly fat, poor sleep, anxiety, joint pain, cravings, and declining energy are separate issues requiring separate solutions. But Dr. Mariza reveals how these symptoms are often interconnected through one common underlying process: inflammation. She also explores why perimenopause is not simply a hormone transition but a metabolic, vascular, and neuroendocrine transition that increases inflammatory burden and changes how the body responds to stress, blood sugar fluctuations, sleep disruption, and hormonal shifts. Most importantly, Dr. Mariza shares the practical lifestyle pillars she uses to lower inflammation, improve metabolic flexibility, support hormone health, and create the internal environment needed for healthy aging and long-term vitality. If you've been feeling like your body is changing but can't quite connect the dots, this episode will help you understand what inflammation may be trying to tell you. IN THIS EPISODE Why low-grade inflammation is one of the biggest drivers of symptoms after 40 The connection between inflammation, metabolism, hormones, and aging How perimenopause increases inflammatory burden throughout the body The labs Dr. Mariza recommends to assess inflammation and metabolic health Why blood sugar regulation is one of the fastest ways to lower inflammation The critical role of muscle, movement, sleep, and nervous system regulation How gut health influences inflammation, immunity, and metabolism Practical daily habits that help reduce inflammation and support healthy aging QUOTES“The goal isn't simply to lose weight. The goal is creating an internal environment where the body no longer feels the need to stay inflamed.” “One workout cannot undo eight hours of sitting.” “When inflammation comes down, everything goes up.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Use code ENERGIZED and get 10% off on your MitoQ Order https://www.mitoq.com/energized%C2%A0 ⁠Order my newest book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Fix Your Metabolism Masterclass Joi & Blokes Lab Testing Blood Sugar Hacks Guide RELATED EPISODES  755: What If Your Body Isn’t Broken, Just Undernourished? The Missing Link Between Nutrients, Hormones & Energy with Ryan Woodburry 753: The Brain’s Hidden Role in Chronic Pain, Migraines & Fatigue with Dr. Howard Schubiner 751: Bloating, Brain Fog & Hormone Chaos? Your Gut May Be the Root Cause with Dr. Cassie Smith 741: Estrogen, Gut Health, Mitochondria, and Cardiovascular Health: What Changes In Perimenopause with Dr. Siobhan Mitchel

What if one of the biggest missing pieces of perimenopause isn't hormones at all? In this eye-opening conversation, Dr. Mariza sits down with Ryan Woodbury, co-founder and co-CEO of Needed, to explore why nutrient deficiencies may be one of the most overlooked drivers of fatigue, brain fog, low energy, poor stress resilience, and other common symptoms women experience during perimenopause. Ryan shares the surprising personal experience that led her into the world of nutritional science and supplementation, including discovering her own nutrient deficiencies despite following a highly nutrient-dense diet. Together, they unpack the alarming research showing that most women are entering pregnancy, postpartum, and eventually perimenopause already running on depleted nutritional reserves. They discuss the shortcomings of traditional nutritional recommendations, why so many women remain deficient despite taking standard multivitamins, and how decades of stress, caregiving, disrupted sleep, pregnancies, and modern environmental demands create a perfect storm for depletion. Dr. Mariza and Ryan also dive into the critical role nutrients play in supporting hormone production, brain function, metabolism, cellular energy, blood sugar regulation, and healthy aging. Most importantly, they offer practical guidance for building a stronger nutritional foundation so women can thrive through midlife and beyond. If you've ever wondered why you still feel depleted despite doing "all the right things," this conversation will help connect the dots. RYAN WOODBURY Ryan Woodbury is the co-founder and co-CEO of Needed, a company dedicated to improving nutritional support for women across every stage of life. With a background in environmental science, nutrition, and food systems, Ryan has become a leading advocate for evidence-based nutrient support for fertility, pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopause. Her mission is to help women move beyond bare-minimum nutrition and build the foundation needed for lifelong vitality. IN THIS EPISODE Why nutrient deficiencies are so common among women entering perimenopause The hidden impact of stress, caregiving, pregnancy, and postpartum depletion Why traditional multivitamins often fail to meet women's nutritional needs The critical role of vitamin D, magnesium, choline, omega-3s, and B vitamins How nutrient deficiencies contribute to fatigue, brain fog, and metabolic dysfunction Why foundational nutrition matters before adding targeted interventions The connection between blood sugar regulation, inflammation, and hormonal health How women can build a stronger foundation for energy, cognition, and healthy aging QUOTES“95% of women have at least one nutrient deficiency in a very key nutrient.” “You deserve to get what your body actually needs, not the bare minimum.” “When women reclaim their energy, they don't just change themselves, they change the world.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Subscribe now and get 20% off + FREE Shipping on your first NEEDED Supplement Order http://thisisneeded.com/DrMarizaSnyder Order my newest book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Needed Website Needed InstagramNeeded Facebook Needed Academy Instagram RELATED EPISODES 754: How to Find Joy When Life Doesn’t Go According to Plan with Amberly Lago 751: Bloating, Brain Fog & Hormone Chaos? Your Gut May Be the Root Cause with Dr. Cassie Smith 741: Estrogen, Gut Health, Mitochondria, and Cardiovascular Health: What Changes In Perimenopause with Dr. Siobhan Mitchel 743: Why Your Heart Risk Changes in Menopause (And What You Can Do About It) with Dr. Jayne Morgan

What if resilience isn't about pushing harder, but about learning how to move forward with grace, courage, and joy when life doesn't go according to plan? In this powerful conversation, Dr. Mariza sits down with bestselling author, speaker, coach, and podcast host Amberly Lago to discuss resilience, overcoming adversity, and finding purpose through life's most difficult challenges. After surviving a devastating motorcycle accident that nearly took her life, enduring dozens of surgeries, and being diagnosed with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), Amberly faced years of chronic pain, uncertainty, and reinvention. Rather than allowing her circumstances to define her, she chose to build a life rooted in resilience, gratitude, faith, community, and purpose. Together, they explore the mindset shifts that help women move through difficult seasons, the role of gratitude in healing, why joy is a daily practice rather than a destination, and how small habits can create profound transformation over time. Whether you're navigating health challenges, career transitions, relationship struggles, or simply feeling stuck, this conversation offers practical tools and powerful encouragement to help you move forward with greater confidence and hope. AMBERLY LAGO Amberly Lago is a bestselling author, resilience coach, TEDx speaker, top-ranked podcast host, and motivational speaker. After surviving a catastrophic motorcycle accident and living with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome, she transformed her personal challenges into a mission to help others build resilience, find joy, and create meaningful lives despite adversity. She is the author of multiple books, including Joy Through the Journey and True Grit and Grace. IN THIS EPISODE How resilience is built through daily decisions and small actions Amberly's remarkable recovery journey after a life-changing accident Why gratitude can shift your mindset during difficult seasons The importance of acceptance when facing unexpected challenges How community helps accelerate growth and confidence Why joy is a strategy, not just an emotion The role of habits, discipline, and non-negotiables in long-term success How to move forward when life feels uncertain or overwhelming QUOTES “You can't be grateful and miserable at the same time.” “Resilience isn't about bouncing back. It's about moving forward.” “When you've got grit, there is no quit.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Order my newest book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Use code DRMARIZA and get 10% off on your Womeness Order https://www.womaness.com/DRMARIZA Joy Through the Journey Book by Amberly Lago True Grit and Grace Book by Amberly Lago The Amberly Lago Show Amberly Lago Website Amberly Lago Facebook Amberly Lago Instagram Amberly Lago Youtube RELATED EPISODES  753: The Brain’s Hidden Role in Chronic Pain, Migraines & Fatigue with Dr. Howard Schubiner 717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause 741: Estrogen, Gut Health, Mitochondria, and Cardiovascular Health: What Changes In Perimenopause with Dr. Siobhan Mitchel 743: Why Your Heart Risk Changes in Menopause (And What You Can Do About It) with Dr. Jayne Morgan

What if your chronic pain, migraines, anxiety, fatigue, IBS, or other persistent symptoms aren't permanent at all? In this fascinating conversation, Dr. Mariza sits down with Dr. Howard Schubiner, physician, researcher, and leading expert in neuroplastic symptoms, to explore a groundbreaking approach that is helping people reverse chronic pain and other conditions long considered lifelong and irreversible. Dr. Schubiner explains how the brain creates pain as a protective danger signal, why emotional injuries can activate the same neural pathways as physical injuries, and how unresolved trauma, chronic stress, adverse childhood experiences, and self-silencing can contribute to chronic symptoms years or even decades later. Together, they discuss the growing body of research around neuroplastic pain, the connection between emotions and physical symptoms, and why many people continue suffering despite normal scans, medications, and conventional treatments. Dr. Mariza also shares her own experience with chronic migraines, leading to a powerful live demonstration of how pain reprocessing techniques can begin shifting the brain's expectations and neural patterns in real time. This conversation offers hope for anyone who has been told they simply need to manage their symptoms for the rest of their life. HOWARD SCHUBINER Dr. Howard Schubiner is a physician, researcher, educator, and one of the leading voices in the field of neuroplastic symptoms. He is the author of Unlearn Your Pain and has spent decades helping patients recover from chronic pain, migraines, fibromyalgia, IBS, anxiety, chronic fatigue, and other conditions through evidence-based approaches rooted in neuroscience, emotional processing, and neuroplasticity. IN THIS EPISODE What neuroplastic symptoms are and why they are often misunderstood How childhood experiences, trauma, and chronic stress can contribute to chronic pain Why migraines, IBS, fibromyalgia, anxiety, and fatigue may share similar brain-based mechanisms The powerful connection between emotions and physical symptoms How pain reprocessing therapy helps retrain the brain's danger signals Why self-silencing and people-pleasing often show up in women with chronic symptoms The role of emotional awareness and expression in healing A live demonstration of changing neural pathways through visualization and safety signals QUOTES“Pain can be a message that our brain sends.” “Emotional injury causes the same parts of the brain to light up as physical injury.” “Chronic pain is not necessarily a life sentence.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Use code ENERGIZED and get 30% off on your first BATCH order http://hellobatch.com/ENERGIZED Get your copy of Dr. Howard Schubiner Newest Book now https://www.amazon.com/Unlearn-Your-Pain-Recovering-Depression/ Unlearn Your Pain Website The Association for the Treatment of Neuroplastic Symptoms (ATNS) Howard Schubiner Instagram Howard Schubiner Facebook RELATED EPISODES  751: Bloating, Brain Fog & Hormone Chaos? Your Gut May Be the Root Cause with Dr. Cassie Smith 743: Why Your Heart Risk Changes in Menopause (And What You Can Do About It) with Dr. Jayne Morgan 717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause 741: Estrogen, Gut Health, Mitochondria, and Cardiovascular Health: What Changes In Perimenopause with Dr. Siobhan Mitchel

What if the foods marketed as “healthy” are actually contributing to the very symptoms so many women are struggling with today? In this eye-opening conversation, Dr. Mariza sits down with Julia Putzeys, certified Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and founder of the Trash Panda app, to expose the hidden reality of ultra-processed foods and how they impact energy, hormones, metabolism, mood, inflammation, and long-term health. Together, they unpack the confusing world of food marketing, ingredient labels, food additives, artificial flavors, seed oils, and the growing prevalence of ultra-processed foods in the modern food supply. Julia shares her own journey from believing she was eating healthy to discovering how many seemingly nutritious products were filled with ingredients that offered little nourishment and often contributed to poor health outcomes. They also discuss the powerful mindset shift from calorie counting and restriction toward nourishment, nutrient density, and real food. As mothers, both Dr. Mariza and Julia share practical strategies for helping children develop a healthier relationship with food while avoiding the traps of hyper-palatable, addictive processed products. If you've ever felt overwhelmed at the grocery store or questioned whether the foods in your pantry are actually supporting your health, this episode offers practical guidance and empowering tools to help you make more informed choices. JULIA PUTZEYS Julia Putzeys is a certified Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, founder of the Trash Panda app, and mother of three. Combining her background in software product management with her passion for nutrition, Julia created Trash Panda to help consumers quickly identify potentially harmful ingredients in packaged foods and discover healthier alternatives. Her mission is to make ingredient transparency and healthier food choices more accessible to families everywhere. IN THIS EPISODE Why over 70% of grocery store products are considered ultra-processed foods The difference between processed foods and ultra-processed foods How food additives, flavorings, and dyes impact cravings, behavior, and long-term health Why calorie counting often distracts us from focusing on true nourishment The connection between ultra-processed foods, inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, and chronic disease How food marketing creates confusion around what is actually healthy Practical strategies for helping children develop healthier eating habits How the Trash Panda app helps consumers identify healthier food swaps QUOTES“Eating whole food means reading the ingredients, not just the nutrition label.” “Your body becomes addicted to ultra-processed foods because they’re designed that way.” “When I started focusing on real food, I had so much less food noise.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Use code ENERGIZED and get $10 off on annual membership for the Trash Panda App on IOS https://apps.apple.com/redeem Download the Trash Panda App now on IOS or Android https://trashpanda.app.link/AvwFh7mfG3b Use code ENERGIZED and get 10% off on your MitoQ Order https://www.mitoq.com/energized%C2%A0 Trash Panda App Website Trash Panda App Instagram Trash Panda App Facebook Trash Panda App Youtube RELATED EPISODES  751: Bloating, Brain Fog & Hormone Chaos? Your Gut May Be the Root Cause with Dr. Cassie Smith 741:Estrogen, Gut Health, Mitochondria, and Cardiovascular Health: What Changes In Perimenopause with Dr. Siobhan Mitchel 743: Why Your Heart Risk Changes in Menopause (And What You Can Do About It) with Dr. Jayne Morgan 717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause

“What if your bloating, fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, stubborn weight gain, and hormone symptoms are actually starting in your gut?” In this episode, Dr. Mariza sits down with Dr. Cassie Smith — dual board-certified endocrinologist, founder of Modern Endocrine, and author of Fix Your Gut, Fix Your Hormones — to unpack the powerful connection between gut health, hormone balance, stress, metabolism, inflammation, and reproductive health. Together, they dive into how chronic stress, poor gut health, blood sugar dysregulation, inflammation, and lifestyle overload silently impact everything from cortisol and insulin to estrogen, progesterone, thyroid function, and fertility. Dr. Cassie explains why so many women are told their labs are “normal” while still feeling exhausted, bloated, anxious, inflamed, and disconnected from their bodies — and why gut dysfunction is often the missing piece conventional medicine overlooks. They also explore the growing metabolic and hormonal crisis happening in younger women, the connection between PCOS, insulin resistance, gut dysfunction, and birth control, and why many women are struggling to restore healthy cycles and fertility later in life. This conversation is a powerful reminder that hormones do not work in isolation. Your gut, nervous system, metabolism, sleep, stress resilience, and hormones are all deeply interconnected. If you’ve been feeling like your body is trying to tell you something but nobody has connected the dots yet, this episode will help you understand where healing truly begins. DR. CASSIE SMITH Dr. Cassie Smith is a dual board-certified endocrinologist and the founder of Modern Endocrine. After becoming frustrated with the limitations of conventional medicine, she built a practice focused on uncovering the root causes behind hormone dysfunction, metabolic issues, fertility struggles, and gut-related symptoms. She is also the author of the book Fix Your Gut, Fix Your Hormones. IN THIS EPISODE Why chronic stress has such a powerful impact on gut health and hormones How gut dysfunction contributes to fatigue, brain fog, bloating, anxiety, and weight resistance The connection between estrogen decline, microbiome diversity, and inflammation Why insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction are rising in younger women The hidden relationship between PCOS, gut health, cortisol, and fertility Why birth control is often used as a Band-Aid instead of addressing root causes The foundational lifestyle habits that support gut and hormone healing Why slowing down, resting, and reducing nervous system overload matters for recovery QUOTES “Your hormones are doing the best they can in the environment you give them.” “It doesn’t matter how many supplements or hormones we throw at you if the foundations aren’t in place.” “Your gut is where all healing begins.” “Your body cannot heal in survival mode.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Get your “Fix Your Gut, Fix Your Hormones” Book by Dr. Cassie Smith https://guthormonefix.com/ ⁠Order my newest book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Modern Endocrine Website Modern Endocrine Instagram Modern Endocrine Facebook Modern Endocrine Tiktok Modern Endocrine Youtube Hormones, Metabolism and You PodcastThe Menopause Gut Book by Cynthia Thurlow RELATED EPISODES  741: Estrogen, Gut Health, Mitochondria, and Cardiovascular Health: What Changes In Perimenopause with Dr. Siobhan Mitchel 743: Why Your Heart Risk Changes in Menopause (And What You Can Do About It) with Dr. Jayne Morgan 738: The Hidden Link Between Inflammation, Hormones & Fertility with Dr. Natalie Crawford  740: Why You’re Bloated, Gaining Weight & Feeling Off in Menopause (It Starts in Your Gut) with Cynthia Thurlow

“What if the exhaustion, brain fog, low libido, and metabolic changes women experience in midlife are actually rooted in a deeper cellular energy crisis?” In this episode, Dr. Mariza sits down with Dr. Andrew Salzman — physician, inventor, biochemical engineer, and Chief Scientific Officer of Wonderfeel — to unpack the powerful connection between NAD, mitochondrial health, inflammation, ovarian aging, gut integrity, nitric oxide, and the dramatic energy shifts women experience during perimenopause and menopause. Dr. Salzman explains why menopause represents a major biological inflection point for women and how declining NAD levels may be contributing to fatigue, brain fog, poor recovery, metabolic dysfunction, sleep issues, reduced stress resilience, cardiovascular changes, and shifts in sexual health. Together, they explore the evolutionary role of menopause, why ovarian senescence accelerates aging pathways, how inflammation and the enzyme CD38 rapidly deplete NAD stores, and why the gut microbiome may be one of the biggest drivers of inflammation and energy decline in modern women. They also dive into nitric oxide production, cardiovascular health, the brain’s dependence on NAD for sleep and cognitive function, and why ingredients like NMN and creatine are gaining attention for supporting healthy aging and resilience in midlife. If you’ve ever looked in the mirror and thought, “I don’t feel like myself anymore,” this conversation will help connect the dots between your symptoms, your mitochondria, and your long-term vitality. ANDREW SALZMAN Dr. Andrew Salzman is a physician, inventor, biochemical engineer, and the Chief Scientific Officer of Wonderfeel. With more than 30 years of experience in drug discovery and development, over 170 scientific publications, and more than 50 patents, Dr. Salzman has spent decades studying aging biology, inflammation, cellular resilience, nitric oxide signaling, and mitochondrial health IN THIS EPISODE Why menopause is a major biological inflection point for women How declining NAD levels impact energy, metabolism, sleep, and brain function Why CD38 accelerates inflammation and NAD depletion during aging The surprising connection between gut health, inflammation, and menopause symptoms How estrogen decline contributes to leaky gut and systemic inflammation Why nitric oxide is essential for circulation, libido, cardiovascular health, and cognition The role of NAD in circadian rhythm, sleep quality, and stress resilience Why NMN and creatine are gaining attention for healthy aging and vitality QUOTES“Menopause will happen, but the question is: how do we maintain vibrancy and resilience through it?” “NAD is the common currency that drives energy throughout the body.” “The gut is the foundational driver of inflammation as we age.” “Without NADPH, you don’t have nitric oxide production.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Subscribe and Save $15 on Wonderfeel Youngr™ NMN: https://tidd.ly/4rPnckS Use code ENERGIZED and get 30% off on your first BATCH order https://hellobatch.com/ENERGIZED Order my newest book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Wonderfeel Website Wonderfeel Instagram Wonderfeel YouTube RELATED EPISODES  741: Estrogen, Gut Health, Mitochondria, and Cardiovascular Health: What Changes In Perimenopause with Dr. Siobhan Mitchel 691: The Fertility Crisis No One Talks About: Why Your Health Today Impacts Future Generations with Dr. Ann Shippy 717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause 743: Why Your Heart Risk Changes in Menopause (And What You Can Do About It) with Dr. Jayne Morgan

“What if the life you worked so hard to build is also the thing quietly burning you out?” In this episode, Dr. Mariza sits down with Brooke Taylor to unpack the hidden emotional patterns driving burnout, overachievement, perfectionism, and chronic stress in high-performing women. Brooke shares her deeply personal story—from climbing the corporate ladder at Google while battling addiction, burnout, and health issues—to ultimately discovering what she now calls the “Success Wound.” Together, they explore how so many women unconsciously tie their worth, safety, belonging, and identity to achievement… until their body can no longer sustain the pressure. They dive into the emotional roots of over-functioning, the nervous system impact of constantly “doing,” and why midlife often becomes the moment women can no longer outrun themselves. Brooke also shares practical tools to identify your own success wound patterns, regulate your nervous system, reconnect to your true self, and move from manic ambition into aligned ambition. If you’ve ever felt exhausted despite accomplishing so much… if you’ve struggled to slow down, feel present, or believe you’re enough without constantly proving yourself… this conversation will hit deeply. BROOKE TAYLOR Brooke Taylor is a transformational career coach, speaker, and former Google marketing lead who has helped over 5,000 high-performing women redefine success on their own terms. After experiencing burnout, addiction, and deep emotional reckoning in her own life, Brooke developed the framework she now calls the “Success Wound” to help women break free from overachievement patterns and reconnect to fulfillment, purpose, and self-worth. IN THIS EPISODE What the “Success Wound” actually is—and how it develops Why high-achieving women often tie worthiness to productivity The hidden connection between burnout, perfectionism, and chronic stress How childhood conditioning shapes our relationship with achievement The 5 success wound archetypes: Grinder, Pleaser, Hider, Seeker, and Work Hard/Play Hard Why perimenopause can intensify emotional and nervous system burnout The difference between manic ambition and aligned ambition Practical tools to regulate your nervous system and reconnect to your true self Why healing your success wound is lifelong work—not a quick fix QUOTES“The more that I succeeded, the more love, belonging, and approval I would get.” “We don’t rise to the level of our confidence. We fall to the level of our self-worth.” “You are not working from the most powerful part of yourself when you’re working from fear.” “There is nothing wrong with your ambition. It’s the way your worth became tied to it that needs healing.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Grab Brooke’s new book The Success Wound https://amzn.to/3RoWBOC Use code ENERGIZED and get 10% off on your Troscription Order http://troscriptions.com/ENERGIZED Order my new book The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Brooke Taylor Website Brooke Taylor Instagram Brooke Taylor Tiktok RELATED EPISODES  717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause 741: Estrogen, Gut Health, Mitochondria, and Cardiovascular Health: What Changes In Perimenopause with Dr. Siobhan Mitchel 733: Why We’re Still Exhausted in the Age of “Evidence-Based” Everything with Shawn Stevenson 728: Why Brain Fog Isn’t Random: The Hormone Shift Behind It

“What if your body isn’t failing you… but asking for a different kind of support?” In this episode, Dr. Mariza sits down with Mickey Trescott to unpack the powerful connection between inflammation, autoimmune disease, gut health, and perimenopause. Together, they explore why so many women are dismissed when labs look “normal” despite debilitating symptoms like fatigue, bloating, brain fog, joint pain, skin issues, and weight resistance. Mickey shares her personal journey with Hashimoto’s, celiac disease, and autoimmune recovery—and how the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) became a transformative tool for reducing inflammation and helping millions feel better in their bodies. They also dive into the evolution of AIP over the last 15 years, the newest research validating its effectiveness, and why perimenopause often becomes an inflammatory inflection point where hidden symptoms suddenly rise to the surface. If you’ve been struggling with chronic inflammation, unexplained symptoms, or feeling dismissed by conventional medicine, this conversation will help you connect the dots—and give you practical hope moving forward. MICKEY TRESCOTT Mickey Trescott is a nutritional therapy practitioner, cookbook author, and co-creator of the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP). After being diagnosed with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and celiac disease in her twenties, she dedicated her work to helping people navigate autoimmune disease through nutrition, lifestyle medicine, and inflammation support. She has helped shape the modern AIP movement and trained hundreds of healthcare practitioners around the world. IN THIS EPISODE Why autoimmune disease impacts women at significantly higher rates How inflammation often worsens during perimenopause and menopause The connection between gut health, food sensitivities, and immune regulation Why “normal labs” don’t always reflect how women actually feel The science and research behind the Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) The difference between Core AIP and the newer Modified AIP approach Why food reintroductions and personalization are key for long-term healing QUOTES“Your body is not working against you. It’s asking for a different level of support.” “Three out of every four-ish people get clinical improvement from doing an elimination diet when you have autoimmune disease.” “When hormones begin to shift, the body becomes far less tolerant of underlying inflammation.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Order my new book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Use code ENERGIZED and get 30% off on your first BATCH order http://hellobatch.com/ENERGIZED Grab Mickey’s new AIP book  https://theautoimmuneprotocol.com/ Visit Autoimmune Wellness Website Autoimmune Wellness Instagram Mickey Trescott Instagram Mickey Trescott Facebook Mickey Trescott Youtube RELATED EPISODES  747: The Silent Shift: Why Perimenopause Changes Everything 717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause 741: Estrogen, Gut Health, and Metabolism with Siobhan Mitchell 728: Why Brain Fog Isn’t Random: The Hormone Shift Behind It

“Perimenopause is more than just hot flashes and mood swings—it’s a biological inflection point.” In this solo episode, Dr. Mariza discusses the deeper, often overlooked changes happening during perimenopause and menopause. It’s more than a reproductive shift; it’s a systemic change affecting the brain, metabolism, hormones, mitochondria, gut health, and more. Dr. Mariza delves into the silent shift that many women experience—feeling exhausted, stressed, and unproductive despite their best efforts. She explains how perimenopause accelerates aging processes, and why early intervention is key to reducing long-term health risks and preserving vitality. This episode focuses on actionable steps you can take to support your body during this critical transition—from stabilizing blood sugar and building muscle to optimizing sleep and protecting your brain. If you’ve been feeling “off” but can’t explain why, this episode is a must-listen. Be sure to tune in! IN THIS EPISODE Why perimenopause is a biological and metabolic inflection point The connection between hormonal fluctuations, mitochondria, and energy How perimenopause accelerates aging and increases risk for chronic diseases Why "just pushing through" is not the solution for midlife women The importance of early intervention for better long-term health outcomes Simple strategies for building energy, optimizing brain function, and protecting your future health How stabilizing blood sugar, improving muscle mass, and prioritizing sleep can reduce inflammation and support resilience QUOTES“Perimenopause is more than just skipped periods or hot flashes. It’s a shift in every system of the body.” “You deserve so much better than being told to just survive this season.” “The moment to intervene is now—not when your health has deteriorated.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Order my newest book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Use code ENERGIZED and get 10% off on your Troscription Order http://troscriptions.com/ENERGIZED Use code DRMARIZA and get 10% off on your Womeness Order https://www.womaness.com/DRMARIZA Check out the Morning Metabolic Ignition Method for better energy and resilience RELATED EPISODES  744: The Midlife Brain Reset: How to Protect Your Memory, Focus & Mental Sharpness Starting Now 717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause 728: Why Brain Fog Isn’t Random: The Hormone Shift Behind It 741: Estrogen, Gut Health, Mitochondria, and Cardiovascular Health: What Changes In Perimenopause with Dr. Siobhan Mitchel

“Is your nervous system stuck in overdrive?” In this episode, Dr. Mariza sits down with Jenna Free, a counselor specializing in ADHD and nervous system regulation, to discuss why so many women in midlife feel overwhelmed, scattered, and exhausted despite their best efforts to stay organized. Together, they explore how the nervous system gets stuck in a chronic fight-or-flight state, the role of dysregulation in ADHD symptoms, and why traditional productivity hacks simply don’t work when your nervous system is running on empty. Jenna breaks down her approach to resetting the nervous system and explains how small, consistent changes can lead to massive improvements in mental clarity, energy, and overall well-being. This conversation offers new insights on how to break free from the cycle of rushing, crashing, and feeling burned out—and provides tangible steps to reclaim control over your brain and nervous system. JENNA FREE Jenna Free is a counselor specializing in ADHD, nervous system regulation, and mindfulness practices. She is passionate about helping women overcome the chaos of constant overwhelm and hypervigilance by teaching them how to regulate their nervous systems and achieve sustainable productivity. Jenna is the author of The Simple Guide to ADHD Regulation and offers support to those struggling with ADHD and chronic stress IN THIS EPISODE How a dysregulated nervous system contributes to ADHD-like symptoms in midlife The link between survival mode (fight or flight) and chronic overwhelm Why traditional productivity hacks fail when your nervous system is stuck Practical tips to help interrupt dysregulation and shift into a more balanced state The importance of slowing down and creating space for mindful action How to reframe beliefs and thoughts to support nervous system regulation Why a regulated nervous system leads to more sustainable energy and better overall functioning QUOTES“Being in survival mode is a primal mechanism, but it’s not meant to be how we live in 2026.” “If you believe that being frantic and rushed is the way to be successful, you will never change.” “Regulation work isn’t about feeling nice—it’s about functioning better.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Use code ENERGIZED and get 10% off on your MitoQ Order https://www.mitoq.com/energized  Order The Simple Guide to ADHD Regulation https://www.jennafree.com/book ⁠Order my newest book: The Perimenopause Revolution⁠⁠Jenna Free https://peri-revolution.com/ Jenna Free Website https://www.jennafree.com/ Jenna Free Instagram Jenna Free Youtube RELATED EPISODES  744: The Midlife Brain Reset: How to Protect Your Memory, Focus & Mental Sharpness Starting Now 728: Why Brain Fog Isn’t Random: The Hormone Shift Behind It 717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause 693: Tired All the Time? It Might Be Hidden Problems With Your Mitochondria with Siobhan Mitchell

Why are so many women waking up exhausted… but unable to shut their brain off?” In this episode, Dr. Mariza sits down with Scott Sherr to unpack the hidden nervous system and biochemical shifts driving sleep struggles, anxiety, exhaustion, and feeling “wired and tired” in midlife. Together, they explore why women in perimenopause often lose stress resilience, why the brain gets stuck in overdrive at night, and how neurotransmitters like GABA, serotonin, adenosine, and cortisol shape sleep quality, recovery, and mood. They also dive into the powerful connection between mitochondrial health, nervous system regulation, energy production, and why building more “reserve” may be the missing key to feeling calm, focused, and resilient again. If you’ve been struggling with middle-of-the-night wakeups, burnout, anxiety, or feeling like your brain never truly powers down, this episode will help connect the dots—and offer practical solutions that actually move the needle. Dr. Scott Sherr Dr. Scott Sherr is a physician, health optimization expert, and Chief Operating Officer of Troscriptions. His work focuses on nervous system regulation, mitochondrial health, hyperbaric medicine, sleep optimization, and performance medicine. He is passionate about helping people improve resilience, energy, recovery, and cognitive performance through science-backed strategies and targeted support. IN THIS EPISODE Why so many women feel “wired and tired” in perimenopause The real reason behind 2–3 AM wakeups and racing thoughts How GABA, cortisol, serotonin, and adenosine impact sleep and stress Why nervous system regulation is essential for resilience and recovery The connection between mitochondrial health, energy, and brain function How chronic stress and sympathetic overload affect hormones and mood Practical tools to support sleep, focus, calm, and nervous system balance QUOTES “Sleep will make or break you the next day—especially in this season of life.” “To increase your performance is having more reserve.” “You’re not meant to live in a state of disruption, exhaustion, and feeling wired and tired all the time.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Use code ENERGIZED and get 10% off on your Troscription Order http://troscriptions.com/ENERGIZED Use code ENERGIZED and get 10% off on your MitoQ Order https://www.mitoq.com/energized%C2%A0 Troscriptions Website Dr. Scott Sherr Instagram Dr. Scott Sherr Youtube RELATED EPISODES  744: The Midlife Brain Reset: How to Protect Your Memory, Focus & Mental Sharpness Starting Now 717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause 728: Why Brain Fog Isn’t Random: The Hormone Shift Behind It 593: Why EVERYONE Needs Progesterone in Perimenopause & Beyond with Carol Petersen

“Is this brain fog… or something more?” In this solo episode, Dr. Mariza unpacks the hidden neurological and metabolic shifts happening during perimenopause and menopause—and why so many women suddenly feel mentally “off.” From brain fog and memory lapses to anxiety, overwhelm, and lower stress resilience, these symptoms are often dismissed as aging or stress. But Dr. Mariza explains that this is actually a neuroendocrine and metabolic transition driven by changing hormones, brain energy shifts, inflammation, and blood sugar instability. She breaks down what’s really happening inside the female brain during midlife, why women feel more sensitive to stress, and the most powerful lifestyle strategies to support long-term brain health, energy, mood, and resilience. If you’ve been wondering why you don’t quite feel like yourself anymore, this episode will help connect the dots—and give you a roadmap forward. IN THIS EPISODE Why perimenopause is a neuroendocrine and metabolic brain transition The connection between estrogen, brain energy, and brain fog How blood sugar instability worsens anxiety, fatigue, and mood swings Why inflammation and chronic stress hit harder in midlife The critical role of sleep, nervous system regulation, and muscle building The best supplements for brain health, stress resilience, and energy support Why tracking biomarkers and HRV can help protect long-term brain health QUOTES “Stabilizing your blood sugar is the fastest way to reclaim your energy, your focus, and your calm.” “What we’re dealing with is an energy problem—and once you see it that way, everything changes.” “Your brain is not broken. It is adapting and recalibrating.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Order my new book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Learn more about Joi & Blokes  https://joiandblokes.com/labs-with-dr-mariza-snyder/ Explore Berkeley Life Nitric Oxide Support https://berkeleylife.pxf.io/Vxvdja Download the Midlife Lab Guide https://dmdl.s3.amazonaws.com/Dr-Mariza_Hormone-Lab-Testing-Checklist-%26-Reference-Guide.pdf RELATED EPISODES  728: Why Brain Fog Isn’t Random: The Hormone Shift Behind It 743: Why Your Heart Risk Changes in Menopause with Dr. Jayne Morgan 693: Tired All the Time? It Might Be Hidden Problems With Your Mitochondria with Siobhan Mitchell 717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause

“Why is heart disease still the #1 killer of women—and why aren’t we talking about it?” In this episode, Dr. Mariza sits down with Jayne Morgan to unpack the overlooked connection between perimenopause, menopause, and cardiovascular risk. Most women are told menopause is just about hormones and symptoms—but it’s actually a vascular transition that directly impacts your heart, blood vessels, and long-term health. Together, they break down why women are often misdiagnosed, why key risk markers are missed, and what you can do to advocate for yourself early—before a major event happens. If you’re in your 40s or beyond, this conversation could change how you think about your health—and your future. Be sure to tune in! DR. JAYNE MORGAN Dr. Jayne Morgan is a leading cardiologist and national voice in women’s cardiovascular health. She is passionate about redefining “preventive care” for women—shifting the focus from reproductive health alone to include heart health, vascular function, and long-term longevity. IN THIS EPISODE Why heart disease is still the #1 killer of women—and widely overlooked How perimenopause and menopause impact vascular health Why women are often misdiagnosed in cardiac and stroke events The critical labs every woman should be asking for (including Lp(a)) How inflammation, stress, and caregiving burden increase risk Why movement (not just exercise) is essential for longevity The real role of hormone therapy in protecting heart health QUOTES“Real preventive medicine for women is preventive cardiovascular medicine.” “Menopause is not just a hormonal transition—it’s a vascular one.” “If you don’t measure it, you can’t manage it.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Order my newest book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Dr. Jayne Morgan Instagram Dr. Jayne Morgan Youtube RELATED EPISODES  723: Estrogen, Insulin & Heart Disease: Why Your Risk Rises in Midlife 711: Estrogen, Inflammation, and Your Heart Health: What Every Woman Needs to Know with Dr. Sanjay Bhojra 675: Feeling Off After 40? The Surprising Vitality Molecule to Reignite Your Energy, Libido & Confidence with Cathy Eason  741: Estrogen, Gut Health, and Metabolism with Siobhan Mitchell

In today’s episode, we’re talking about the very real mental energy drain that so many midlife women are experiencing—and how it can quietly lead to career burnout.  From mood swings, irritation, and resentment to brain fog and forgetfulness in high-stakes moments, these changes can leave you feeling like you’re not yourself anymore.  But here’s the truth: this is not a willpower problem or a personal failure— it’s a biological shift happening during perimenopause with very real professional consequences.  This episode is a call to stop suffering in silence and start advocating for better support, awareness, and care for women in this phase of life.  If you’re ready to reclaim your clarity and confidence— and step fully into your most powerful chapter—this conversation is for you. Tune in here! IN THIS EPISODE The neuroendocrine transition happening in perimenopause  How to adapt when your brain is functioning less in midlife  Different hormone changes and what they mean for your body  Understanding your biology and supporting your brain in midlife  Why strategic lifestyle changes matter the most right now  How to get my top recommendations for battling brain fog from my new book, The Perimenopause Revolution QUOTES “That brilliant brain of yours is suddenly running on 25% to 30% less energy because that’s what's going on in perimenopause.” “65% to 99% of women say their symptoms negatively affected their work performance, with brain fog being the biggest culprit in terms of focus, clarity, alertness, and mental bandwidth. More than half of women make career-limiting decisions during perimenopause.” “It's about you going through a profound biological transition in your life that deserves support, understanding, and solutions that actually work.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Join my Midlife on Fire Collective HERE! Order my newest book: The Perimenopause Revolution HERE! RELATED EPISODES  728: WHY BRAIN FOG ISN’T RANDOM: THE HORMONE SHIFT BEHIND IT 721: No, It’s Not All in Your Head: The Medical Truth About Perimenopause with Dr. Jila Senemar 717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause 690: The Perimenopause Revolution: Why midlife isn’t the end — it’s the beginning of your most energized, powerful, and vibrant self

“Why does your body stop responding… even when you’re doing everything right?” In this episode, Dr. Mariza sits down with Siobhan Mitchell to unpack the true metabolic and cellular shifts happening in perimenopause and menopause. So many women feel like their body has suddenly turned against them—weight gain, fatigue, brain fog, and rising inflammation—despite doing all the right things. But this isn’t a failure of effort. It’s a biological inflection point driven by declining estrogen and its impact on metabolism, mitochondria, and vascular health. Together, they break down how estrogen loss reshapes everything from blood sugar control to fat storage, mitochondrial function, and long-term cardiovascular risk—while also exploring the emerging role of gut health and phytoestrogens like S-equol as targeted support. If you’ve been working harder than ever with fewer results, this episode will help you understand why—and what to do instead. Be sure to tune in! SIOBHAN MITCHEL Dr. Siobhan Mitchel, PhD, is a neuroscientist and Chief Scientific Officer at MitoQ. Her work focuses on mitochondrial health, cellular energy, and the role of oxidative stress in aging—particularly in women navigating perimenopause and menopause. She is passionate about advancing research that supports women’s long-term health, metabolism, and resilience at the cellular level. IN THIS EPISODE Why your body stops responding the same way in perimenopause How estrogen loss impacts metabolism, fat storage, and blood sugar The role of mitochondria in energy, brain function, and weight changes Why visceral belly fat increases—and why it’s more dangerous The connection between gut health, estrogen metabolism, and inflammation How phytoestrogens (like S-equol) support metabolism and hormone signaling Why midlife is a metabolic and vascular inflection point—not just hormonal QUOTES “This isn’t a failure of effort—it’s a biological shift happening beneath the surface.” “When estrogen declines, you don’t just lose hormones—you lose metabolic protection.” “If you support your mitochondria, you support your energy, your metabolism, and your long-term health.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Order my new book: The Perimenopause Revolution HERE! https://peri-revolution.com/ Use code ENERGIZED and get 10% off MitoQ http://www.mitoq.com/energized MitoQ Instagram MitoQ Facebook MitoQ Youtube RELATED EPISODES  693: The Cellular Shift in Perimenopause: Mitochondria, Metabolism, and Energy 728: Why Brain Fog Isn’t Random: The Hormone Shift Behind It 717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause 705: The Metabolic Shift No One Warned You About in Midlife

“Is it really just hormones… or is your gut driving the symptoms?” In this episode, Dr. Mariza sits down with Cynthia Thurlow to unpack the powerful connection between gut health and hormones in midlife. Many women are told their bloating, weight gain, fatigue, and mood shifts are “just hormones.” But Cynthia explains that the gut microbiome plays a central role in how these symptoms show up—and how they can be improved. Together, they break down how gut health influences hormones, inflammation, metabolism, and brain function, while also highlighting the foundational habits that matter most in this season. If you’ve been feeling off and unsure where to focus, this episode will give you clarity and a smarter path forward. Be sure to tune in! CYNTHIA THURLOW Cynthia Thurlow is a nurse practitioner, intermittent fasting expert, and leading voice in metabolic health for women in midlife. With a background in cardiology, she now focuses on helping women navigate perimenopause and menopause through personalized nutrition, gut health, and lifestyle strategies. She is the author of The Menopause Gut and a passionate advocate for empowering women to take control of their health during this pivotal transition. IN THIS EPISODE Why so many women feel disconnected from their bodies in midlife How the gut microbiome influences hormones, inflammation, and metabolism The “Three Ps” shaping gut health: puberty, pregnancy, and perimenopause The link between leaky gut, food sensitivities, mood, and inflammation Why protein, fiber, sleep, and stress support become nonnegotiable How alcohol and sugar disrupt gut health, sleep, and resilience Why midlife is a critical window to build long-term health—not just manage symptoms QUOTES“Midlife isn’t just a hormonal shift—it’s a metabolic and microbial shift happening beneath the surface.” “When you support your gut, you’re not just improving digestion—you’re impacting your hormones, your brain, and your long-term resilience.” “This phase of life is an invitation to set boundaries, prioritize your needs, and finally major in what matters most.” RESOURCES MENTIONED 👉🏻 Order my new book: The Perimenopause Revolution HERE! ⛓️‍💥 https://peri-revolution.com/ 👉🏻 Order Cynthia’s book: The Menopause Gut ⛓️‍💥 https://amzn.to/4eoEIsX 👉🏻 Use code ENERGIZED and get 10% off on your Troscription Order ⛓️‍💥 http://troscriptions.com/ENERGIZED Cynthia Thurlow’s Website Cynthia Thurlow on Instagram RELATED EPISODES  717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause 728: Why Brain Fog Isn’t Random: The Hormone Shift Behind It 701: The Gut–Hormone Connection: Why Your Symptoms Aren’t Just Hormones 689: Blood Sugar, Inflammation, and the Midlife Metabolism Shift

“Is this brain fog… or something more?” In this episode, brain expert Dr. Majid Fotuhi explains how perimenopause is a true neuroendocrine transition, where shifting hormones can temporarily impact memory, focus, sleep, and mood—often leaving women worried they’re experiencing early cognitive decline.  The good news? These changes are typically transient, and as hormones stabilize, the brain can return to its baseline function.  Dr. Fotuhi shares that what many women are experiencing is not the beginning of the end, but a normal phase—and one that can be supported with the right lifestyle and brain-health strategies.  If you’ve been feeling “off” mentally and wondering what it means for your future, this episode will bring you the peace of mind you need.  Be sure to tune in! Majid Fotuhi Dr. Majid Fotuhi serves as an adjunct professor at the Mind/Brain Institute at Johns Hopkins University and teaches at George Washington University and Harvard Medical School. With 37 years of experience in teaching, clinical practice, and neuroscience research, Dr. Fotuhi has pioneered a multidisciplinary approach to enhancing brain vitality and cognitive performance at any age. His groundbreaking “Brain Fitness Program” combines a comprehensive baseline “Brain Portfolio” assessment with 12 bi-weekly brain training sessions. He’s the author of three books and is recognized as one of the leading experts in memory and successful aging.  IN THIS EPISODE The 5 pillars of brain health to boost everyday brain function  The benefits of physical activity on your brain health  How the food you eat directly impacts your brain  Preventative health practices for protecting your brain Prioritizing quality sleep and circadian rhythm optimization  Mindset and brain training to help keep your brain young About Dr. Fotuhi’s latest book- The Invincible Brain  QUOTES“Exercise is the only intervention that has been shown to increase the number of cells in the hippocampus, which is a memory part of the brain. No other intervention increases the number of brain cells… exercise is the fountain of youth, the miracle cure for so many problems, psychological, physical, and it's a no-brainer.”  “Lifestyle choices and how you live your day, hour to hour, make a difference in what your brain would look like in the future. And if you do a lot of good things in a short period of time, you can see significant improvements.” “84% of our patients had objective improvements in the cognitive test, but pretty much a hundred percent improved in some ways. They felt better, they slept better, they had more energy, they had a better positive outlook toward the future. Everybody improved.” RESOURCES MENTIONED 👉🏻 Order my new book: The Perimenopause Revolution ⁠⛓️‍💥 https://peri-revolution.com/ 👉🏻 Order Dr. Fotuhi’s latest book: The Invincible Brain ⁠⛓️‍💥https://amzn.to/4cuqvIj Dr. Fotuhi’s Website Dr. Fotuhi on Instagram RELATED EPISODES  728: Why Brain Fog Isn’t Random: The Hormone Shift Behind It 667: The Hidden Foods and Habits Fueling Brain Inflammation And How to Reverse It Naturally with Dr. Austin Perlmutter 668: Your Brain on Perimenopause: The Hidden Neurological Transition No One Warns You About 717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause

Fertility is a powerful reflection of your overall health—not a separate or isolated system. In this episode, fertility expert Dr. Natalie Crawford breaks down what’s really happening physiologically as fertility shifts in midlife, connecting the dots between hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and egg quality.  We dive into the everyday habits quietly disrupting fertility—from chronic stress and blood sugar imbalances to inflammation—and how these factors directly impact ovulation and hormone signaling.  Dr. Crawford also cuts through the noise around age, offering a more nuanced, science-backed perspective on what you can actually do to support your fertility at any stage.  You’ll learn that it's the simple shifts each month that can make a meaningful difference starting now.  Ready to support your body from the inside out? Tune in here! Natalie Crawford, MD  Dr. Natalie Crawford is board-certified in both Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility and is co-founder of Fora Fertility, a boutique fertility practice in Texas. She’s the CEO and co-founder of Pinnacle, a professional network for women in medicine. Dr. Crawford is a digital health educator on social media and hosts the podcast  “As a Woman” with over 6 million downloads. Her new book, “The Fertility Formula”, will be released this spring.  IN THIS EPISODE How is fertility a reflection of your body’s overall environment?  Accurate cycle tracking and what signals to pay attention to  Factors that disrupt fertility and how to catch issues early on  How inflammation and metabolic health are deeply tied to fertility  5 non-negotiables when it comes to women’s health and wellness High-impact changes to help support your fertility  Fertility recommendations for women 35 and older  Dr. Crawford’s fertility story and how to get her new book, The Fertility Formula QUOTES“The follicular phase and luteal phase are the two phases of the cycle, and learning to track your ovulation specifically is a really important tool because the early stages of ovulatory dysfunction all occur within a normal cycle, meaning the first stage is a short luteal defect.” “I can't control everything, but I want to control what I can, so I have the easiest time getting pregnant, I feel my best, I have the best odds of success if I have to do fertility treatments. That's the zone we want to live in, and we want to lower that inflammatory burden on the day-to-day, not to be all or nothing, but to really cultivate that body resilience so we can handle the challenges of life that we know are coming.” “It's your body's data. You're gonna find out one way or another, and I think you deserve to know it sooner.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Order my new book: The Perimenopause Revolution HERE! https://peri-revolution.com/ Pre-order The Fertility Formula https://www.nataliecrawfordmd.com/book Dr. Natalie Crawford on socials:  Instagram TikTok YouTube Dr. Crawford’s Podcast: As A Woman RELATED EPISODES  691: The Fertility Crisis No One Talks About: Why Your Health Today Impacts Future Generations with Dr. Ann Shippy 530: The Critical Role That Nutrient Deficiencies Play In Fertility and Conception And How To Close The Gap with Lisa Dreher 687: The Period Brain: Why You Feel Like a Different Person Every Month And How To Stop Fighting Your Cycle and Start Thriving in It with Sarah Hill 735: The Stress–Metabolism Connection: Why You’re Gaining Weight, Craving Sugar & Struggling with Energy

How do you retrain your brain and nervous system to seek out safety, joy, and alignment? In this episode, mind-body alignment expert Dr. Melissa Sonners shares practical ways for midlife women to regulate their nervous system and find calm—even in the chaos of everyday life.  She explains how many of us are unknowingly stuck in a stress-driven state, constantly scanning for what’s wrong, and how this pattern is reinforced by the questions we ask ourselves each day.  Through her simple but powerful tools, she’ll help you learn to easily reset your nervous system and prevent burnout before it builds.  Rather than waiting until the end of the day to relax (and realizing we can’t), she emphasizes creating moments of regulation in real time so we can be more present with our families and actually feel the joy in those everyday interactions.  If you’re navigating the messy middle of midlife and craving more calm, presence, and connection, this episode is for you! Dr. Melissa Sonners Dr. Melissa Sonners is a chiropractor and mind-body alignment expert who helps women reconnect with themselves. As the host of the Be Inspired Mama Podcast and founder of Best Friends Book Nook, she creates spaces for self-growth without adding to busy schedules. After overcoming neurological Lyme disease, she discovered the power of small, intentional shifts for transformation. Now, she empowers women to turn inward for confidence and joy. Her upcoming book, The Connection Code, coming in April 2026 with Hay House Publishing, will guide women toward deeper alignment in their lives. IN THIS EPISODE Navigating the subtle and not-so-subtle symptoms of perimenopause  Healthy communication in midlife as things are shifting  Understanding and verbalizing your needs throughout your cycle  Helpful ways to manage stress in midlife  Getting clear on your values, especially in perimenopause and beyond  Clarifying your non-negotiables and tapping into what feels best About Book Nook, Dr. Sonners’ Virtual Book Club Community  Using reading as a method of nervous system regulation  QUOTES “We always hear and we always know how much stress can impact your health. But I lived it, and I realized that stress was the catalyst for me getting as sick as I got.” “Core values become your guiding principles. So when you have decision fatigue at any time, you don't have to think about it or make an emotional decision. You [say]: whatever one fits this value.” “When you grab a book in the morning and you sit with it and you use it as an anchor tool, it trains your nervous system. Calm is safe. And that regulation is familiar. And when you do that in the morning, you're seeding your nervous system to find it throughout the day.”RESOURCES MENTIONED Order my newest book: The Perimenopause Revolution ⛓️‍💥 https://peri-revolution.com/ ⁠👉🏻 Pre-order The Connection Code ⛓️‍💥 https://beehive.drmelissasonners.com/the-connection-code/ Dr. Sonner’s Website Dr. Soner’s Podcast: Be Inspired Mama Dr. Sonner on Instagram Dr. Sonner on YouTube RELATED EPISODES 735: The Stress–Metabolism Connection: Why You’re Gaining Weight, Craving Sugar & Struggling with Energy 724: Age Like A Girl: Why Midlife Women Stop Shrinking and Start Leading with Dr. Mindy Pelz  721: No, It’s Not All in Your Head: The Medical Truth About Perimenopause with Dr. Jila Senemar 720: Why No One Talks About Loneliness in Midlife—And Why It’s Not Just You  717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause

Over 90% of adults over 40 are mineral-deficient. Are you one of them?  In this podcast, mineral expert and Beam Minerals co-founder Caroline Alan breaks down why and how mineral depletion quietly impacts energy, hormones, and overall vitality.  As women enter perimenopause already running on empty, we explore how declining hormones combined with modern lifestyle stressors leave the body struggling to maintain key functions like mitochondrial energy, detoxification, and cognitive health.  Caroline introduces the power of plant-based minerals, explaining how they replenish cellular reserves and play a critical role in hormone balance, fertility, and brain chemistry.  This conversation highlights why minerals are a missing piece in midlife wellness—and how simple daily habits can restore what your body has been burning through for years.  If you’ve been feeling exhausted despite doing “everything right,” this episode is for you! Tune in here. Caroline Alan Caroline Alan is the Co-Founder and CEO of BEAM Minerals Inc. After her busy corporate career, Caroline found herself struggling physically, mentally, and energetically. As a result of her journey back to health and years of deep study, Caroline has become devoted to educating people about how minerals operate in the body, why we need to supplement our mineral intake, and the benefits of natural humic and fulvic– plant-based mineral substances for replenishment in the body. Caroline is a regular contributor to Podcasts and health-focused events/programs around the world. IN THIS EPISODE How a mineral deficiency impacts perimenopause symptoms  What do minerals really do in your body? Why minerals are so important for perimenopausal women  How plant-based minerals can meet the needs of your body  What exactly are plant-based minerals, and how can you get them?  Humic and Fulvic molecules and how they work in your body  The biggest benefits of replenishing your minerals in midlife  Getting started with Beam Minerals to feel your best in your body  QUOTES“At a cellular level, minerals represent the fuel for energy production in your body.” “All these minerals work together, the way all your cells work together, they all rely on one another in a very complex way… so that's why we end up talking about plant-based minerals because they're actually Mother Nature's solution to this issue of needing different minerals at different stages of your life.” “If you start actually filling, replenishing minerals using humic and fulvic, that actually will get the minerals to the right place inside your cells, and now you start to have some huge shifts.” RESOURCES MENTIONED 👉🏻 Order my new book: The Perimenopause Revolution ⛓️‍💥 https://peri-revolution.com/ 👉🏻 Order Caroline Alan’s The Mineral Reset Book ⛓️‍💥 https://amzn.to/4cauIkd 👉🏻 Beam Minerals Website– Use code ENERGIZED for 20% off your first order! ⛓️‍💥 http://www.beamminerals.com ⁠👉🏻 Beam Minerals Women’s Complete Mineral Support Kit ⛓️‍💥 https://www.beamminerals.com/products/womens-mineral-support-kit⁠ Beam Minerals Instagram Beam Minerals on YouTube Caroline Alan on Instagram RELATED EPISODES 640: Unveiling The Essential Role of Minerals For Cellular Energy And Detoxification with Caroline Alan 732: The Silent Disruptor: How Chronic Stress Hijacks Perimenopause 726: The Midlife Mood Shift: The Hormonal Rewire That Changes Everything with Dr. Sonya Jensen 659: Brain Fog, Joint Pain, and Aging Skin? The Truth About Zombie Cells and How to Reverse Them with Dr. Greg Kelly

Feeling like you’re doing everything right… but still struggling with unwanted weight, cravings, and low energy?  This episode is for you. We’re unpacking why your metabolism may not be broken at all—and how a dysregulated nervous system could be the real reason your body feels stuck.  For midlife women especially, chronic stress can quietly drive insulin resistance, hormonal shifts, and that frustrating loss of resilience that seems to hit in your 40s and beyond.  So this conversation sheds light on the powerful connection between stress and your ability to create and sustain energy in your body.  You’ll walk away with an empowering perspective on how supporting your nervous system can unlock real, lasting change in your health.  Tune in here to learn how to work with your body—not against it—and start feeling like yourself again! IN THIS EPISODE The correlation between stress and your metabolic health  What’s really happening in your body in a stressful state The negative impacts of stress-induced blood sugar responses  How you can experience a blood sugar spike without eating  Simple tips for calming your nervous system and stabilizing your metabolism and blood sugar levels  Movement recommendations for getting stress out of your system  How to take control of your body in my Midlife On Fire Collective  QUOTES“This is what's called a stress-induced blood sugar response, and it's completely normal in the short term, right? We are built for this…But the problem is, for most of us, this isn't happening once in a while. It's happening all the time, and over time research shows that it can lead to higher insulin levels, increased fat storage, especially in the abdomen, and more inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.” “Your metabolism is deeply connected to your nervous system. So what can you do about this? I want to keep this real simple because this isn't about doing more, it's about doing fewer things consistently.” “If we can start to create more safety in our bodies, it just changes everything. And we deserve that. We deserve to feel safe, because that translates into the safety of the people around us as well.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Join my Midlife on Fire Collective https://go2.drmariza.com/midlife-on-fire/ Join my 7- Day Metabolism and Hormone Jumpstart https://go.drmariza.com/lp/metabolism-jumpstart/ Order my latest book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Dr. Jason Fung’s book: The Hunger Code https://www.doctorjasonfung.com/ RELATED EPISODES  729: Why Counting Calories Doesn’t Work (And What Actually Controls Hunger) with Dr. Jason Fung 730: The Metabolic Shift After 40: What’s Really Driving Weight, Energy & Mood Changes 732: The Silent Disruptor: How Chronic Stress Hijacks Perimenopause 698: Food Noise, Cravings, and Midlife Weight Gain: How to Regain Control Naturally with Sarah Kennedy

If you’re like me, you’ve noticed that among all the other crazy changes happening in perimenopause, your skin isn’t the same as it used to be.  In this episode, I’m joined by triple board-certified dermatologist and skincare expert Dr. Mamina Turegano to break down what’s really happening to your skin during midlife.  From increased dryness and loss of firmness to subtle shifts in texture, we explore why these changes occur and how fluctuations in your hormones play a major role. Dr. Turegano shares how your skin is truly a window into your internal health, offering clues about everything from inflammation to overall aging and longevity.  This conversation goes beyond surface-level skincare to help you understand what your skin is trying to tell you—and how to support it from the inside out.  You’ll also learn what actually works (and what to skip) so you can simplify your routine and avoid common midlife skincare mistakes.  Tune in here to feel like your most confident and radiant self! Mamina Turegano, MD  Dr. Mamina Turegano is a triple board-certified dermatologist, internist, and dermatopathologist based in New Orleans. She specializes in medical, cosmetic, and integrative dermatology, blending conventional and holistic approaches to skin health. With over 2 million followers across social media, she shares dermatologist-backed skincare and wellness insights with a broad audience. She also co-hosts a podcast called Skin Deep MDs. IN THIS EPISODE Dr. Mamina’s integrative medicine approach to Dermatology  What’s happening to your skin during perimenopause? Discussing the use of topical hormone products like estrogen cream  Realistic skin care routines for midlife women  Considering prescription products vs. over-the-counter skin care Benefits, side effects, and recommendations for Botox  External factors that are impacting your skin and aging  How crucial your lifestyle choices are in determining your skin quality  Top products for managing midlife wrinkles, dark spots, and hair loss  Getting to the root cause of your symptoms and treating proactively  QUOTES“It's all tied together, how you take care of yourself internally and optimize your skin health. That all will manifest with how you age externally.” “I want people to feel reassured. They don't have to do a lot. The super foundational part of a skincare routine is making sure that you're cleansing daily— even washing your face is anti-aging.” “I’m all about implementing lifestyle strategies. Skincare and lasers, they could do a lot, but they can only do so much. You can really optimize the results of your skincare and your procedures too if you have the right mechanisms in place internally. If your mitochondria is optimized, optimizing your sleep, minimizing more of those inflammation-inducing foods, minimizing sugar, minimizing alcohol, minimizing stress.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Order my newest book: The Perimenopause Revolution HERE!  https://peri-revolution.com/ Dr. Mamina’s Website Dr. Mamina on Instagram Dr. Mamina on TikTok   Dr. Mamina on YouTube Dr. Mamina’s Podcast: Skin Deep MDs RELATED EPISODES  631: Halt and Reverse Skin Aging, Plus the Top Preventable Factors Driving Skin Aging with Dr. Alessandra Zonari 659: Brain Fog, Joint Pain, and Aging Skin? The Truth About Zombie Cells and How to Reverse Them with Dr. Greg Kelly #623: Red Light Therapy for Upgrading Your Mitochondria, Cellular Energy, Skin and Brain Health with Jonathan Otto595: How to Master Your Metabolism and Reverse Cellular Aging in Midlife + My Best Tips to Thrive with Dr. Mariza

We have SO much information at our fingertips, and tons of science to back it up… but what REALLY moves the needle when it comes to wellness?  Here’s the truth– information isn't the problem. Isolation is. We’re not short on data. We’re short on the kind of environment that actually supports what we know we need to do. That’s why in today’s episode, I’m joined by bestselling author and integrative health expert Dr. Shawn Stevenson to uncover what’s really missing in today’s health conversation.  Despite having more access to evidence-based information than ever, so many people still feel exhausted, inflamed, and metabolically unwell—and we explore why that gap exists.  Dr. Stevenson breaks down where even practitioners and wellness leaders are getting it wrong when it comes to creating lasting change.  We cut through the noise to focus on simple, science-backed strategies that actually make an impact on your health and longevity.  Ready to simplify your approach and finally feel better in your body?  Tune in here! Shawn Stevenson Shawn Stevenson is the author of the USA Today National bestsellers Eat Smarter and the Eat Smarter Family Cookbook, as well as the international bestselling book Sleep Smarter. He’s also the creator of The Model Health Show, featured as the number #1 health podcast in the U.S.. A graduate of the University of Missouri, Shawn studied business, biology, and nutritional science and became the cofounder of Advanced Integrative Health Alliance. Shawn has been featured in Forbes, Fast Company, The New York Times, Good Morning America, ESPN, and many other major media outlets. IN THIS EPISODE What society is getting wrong about “evidence-based” information Tuning into your body and emotions and tapping into its needs  Why sleep is a force multiplier for overall wellness  How to stack good habits in your favor and make them stick  Being intentional about your community and relationships  How your relationships with others can impact every aspect of your lifestyle choices  Simple healthy habits to adopt to enhance your wellness and improve your longevity More about Dr. Stevenson's podcast and best-selling books  QUOTES “We're swimming in information, we're swimming in content. There's just so much. We are being pulled away from the most important source of data that we will ever have, which is ourselves. Your body already knows. Your mind already knows what's best for you, but we are not listening.” “The longest running study in history where they follow people and after compiling all the data… the number one determinant of how long people live is the quality of their relationships.” “It's finding what works best for you, but giving yourself some form of an evening routine, something consistent so your brain knows that we're transitioning into rest. And communicating that with your loved ones, with your family, because they will be the potential obstacles or the potential supporters.”  RESOURCES MENTIONED Order my new book: The Perimenopause Revolution HERE! https://peri-revolution.com/ Order Dr. Stevenson’s Book: The Eat Smarter Family Cookbook https://www.amazon.com/Eat-Smarter-Family-Cookbook-Connection/ The Model Health Show Dr. Stevenson on Instagram RELATED EPISODES  730: The Metabolic Shift After 40: What’s Really Driving Weight, Energy & Mood Changes 720: Why No One Talks About Loneliness in Midlife—And Why It’s Not Just You 717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause 725: Exhausted, Wired & Not Yourself? The Hormone Havoc Causing Midlife Burnout with Dr. Amy Shah

Balancing the overwhelm of family, work, and midlife symptoms, all while just trying to feel like yourself again? You’re NOT alone.  In today’s episode, we explore stress as the silent disruptor of midlife—and why it can amplify so many of the symptoms you experience during perimenopause.  We go beyond surface-level stress management and dive into how chronic stress impacts your nervous system, hormones, and overall wellness.  We also highlight the often-overlooked power of connection and community, reframing them as a force multiplier for healing during this phase of life.  You’ll learn simple, practical tools you can start using today to calm your nervous system and navigate overwhelming days with more ease and resilience.  Ready to feel in control again? Tune in here to soften the stress and show up as your best self!  IN THIS EPISODE What makes stress so silent in perimenopause?  The biology of trauma and how unresolved trauma can show up as midlife symptoms  How connection and community enhance your longevity Forming meaningful relationships and cultivating a sisterhood Simple and practical tools to build community connection Recognizing triggers and learning ways to ease your nervous system Exploring the benefits of breathing techniques, movement, natural light, sleep, and quality connections  QUOTES “When you're under constant stress, which most of us are, this system gets stuck in the on position. And during perimenopause, we know that cortisol levels are often elevated, making every symptom feel worse.” “The effects of loneliness and social isolation have been compared to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Loneliness increases your risk of premature death by 26%, heart disease by 29%, and stroke by 32%.” “When you heal your relationship with stress and build meaningful connections, you're not just helping yourself. You are modeling for your children what it looks like to prioritize mental health and community. You're also contributing to a larger global shift in how we talk about menopause, and how we talk about resilience.” RESOURCES MENTIONED 👉🏻 Use code ENERGIZED and get 10% off on your Troscription Order ⛓️‍💥 http://troscriptions.com/ENERGIZED 👉🏻 Join my Midlife on Fire Collective HERE! ⛓️‍💥 https://go2.drmariza.com/midlife-on-fire/ 👉🏻 Join my 7- Day Metabolism and Hormone Jumpstart HERE! ⛓️‍💥 https://go.drmariza.com/lp/metabolism-jumpstart/ 👉🏻 Order my latest book: The Perimenopause Revolution HERE ⛓️‍💥 https://peri-revolution.com/ RELATED EPISODES  722: Why Women Feel Unsafe Right Now: Trauma, Hormones & Protecting the Next Generation with Dr. Aimie Apigian 726: The Midlife Mood Shift: The Hormonal Rewire That Changes Everything with Dr. Sonya Jensen 720: Why No One Talks About Loneliness in Midlife—And Why It’s Not Just You 717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause #612: That Sucked. Now What? How to Navigate Health, Identity, and Life Transitions with Dr. Neeta Nawalkha

Sick of being told your labs are “normal” when you KNOW something’s off?  In today’s episode, I’m joined by functional medicine expert Dr. Robin Berzin to talk about what it really means to take control of your health in midlife.  Dr. Berzin shares the early warning signs to watch for and how to better interpret your health data so you can catch imbalances before they become bigger issues.  You’ll learn how to advocate for yourself, understand key lab markers, and explore why supportive options like supplementation and HRT could be game-changers for you.  We’re reframing health as an ongoing, flexible practice—not a rigid destination—helping you release perfection and stay curious about what your body needs.  Tune in here to feel empowered and take your health into your own hands with confidence!  Dr. Robin Berzin  Dr. Robin Berzin the founder and CEO of Parsley Health, America's leading holistic medical practice designed to help women overcome chronic conditions. As a pioneer in functional medicine, she founded Parsley to address the rise of chronic disease in America through personalized holistic medicine. She stresses the importance of not only medications and treatments, but more so why food, lifestyle, and proactive diagnostics are just as essential– if not more. Since founding Parsley in 2016, Dr. Berzin has seen 80% of patients improve or resolve their chronic conditions within their first year of care, showing the life-changing value of making modern holistic medicine accessible to everyone. IN THIS EPISODE How to navigate feeling dismissed by your doctor  Why “normal” doesn’t always mean normal  The massive benefits of a functional medicine approach Proactively testing hormone levels earlier than you may think Tracking your metrics to better understand your body  Managing stress in your body and mind during midlife  How to realistically fit healthy habits into your busy routine Supplementation to support your body through midlife transitions  Hormone Replacement therapy and GLP-1 use in perimenopause & beyond  QUOTES “A lot of times, the labs may technically fall within the normal range, not the optimal range– normal range being based on an average of Americans today, and 60% of Americans have at least one chronic condition, 40% have two. So our averages have drifted over time to kind of reflect a sick population.” “Whether it's aging parents or kids growing up, or something happening career-wise… all of that puts pressure on a physical system that’s in dynamic change hormonally, and I think we have to recognize that.” “Proactive, preventive medicine is where we're going. Proactive testing is required to practice that type of personalized preventive care, and I believe that HRT is going to become the default rather than the exception.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Order my new book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Robin’s Website Robin on Instagram Parsley Health Website RELATED EPISODES #661: When ‘Normal’ Isn’t Normal: How to Be Heard (and Taken Seriously) at the Doctor’s Office #650: Unlock Your Health: The Ultimate Biomarker & Lab Blueprint to Thrive in Midlife and Beyond #541: Why Functional Labs Are a Game Changer for Your Health with Dr. Kela Smith #527: The Science Of Energy Production and Recovery & How To Balance Out Cortisol and Melatonin with Kristen Holmes

Midlife is the time to measure, understand your body, and take proactive steps to support your future self.  In this episode, I’m diving into the massive metabolic shift that happens during perimenopause—and why this stage of life is the perfect time to build true metabolic resilience.  We explore how metabolism doesn’t respond to punishment or extremes, but instead thrives on consistent biological rhythms and supportive daily signals.  Even small, simple habits can create powerful changes when practiced consistently. Because over time, these small shifts can stabilize energy, reduce inflammation, and help eliminate those frustrating crashes.  If you’re ready to feel deeply supported in midlife, this episode will give you the roadmap to start today! IN THIS EPISODE One of the MOST important upgrades of your life  Preventing chronic disease and protecting your heart and brain health  Defining your own habits that bring you energy and clarity  Navigating hormone shifts and other physiological changes happening in midlife  Building life-changing habits that you can be consistent with  What to expect from my new FREE jumpstart program!  QUOTES “I am more committed than ever to protecting my metabolic and brain health. Even on the hard days, because at the center of everything, your energy, your mood, your weight, your resilience, is your cellular energy, your cellular capacity is what’s determining the symptoms.” “I believe a big part of our midlife journey is building daily habits that protect our cellular energy.” “Perimenopause is the most rapid intervention window for body composition change. A 2020 study showed the greatest decline in lean muscle mass occurs during perimenopause.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Kickstart your Energy in my FREE 7-day Jumpstart Program HERE! https://go.drmariza.com/lp/reignite-your-energy/ Order my newest book: The Perimenopause Revolution HERE!  https://peri-revolution.com/ RELATED EPISODES  728: Why Brain Fog Isn’t Random: The Hormone Shift Behind It 727: The Missing Link in Perimenopause: How to Rebuild Energy, Resilience & Hormonal Harmony with Dr. Deanna Minich 725: Exhausted, Wired & Not Yourself? The Hormone Havoc Causing Midlife Burnout with Dr. Amy Shah #632: The Secret to Optimal Sleep, Resilience, Performance and Emotional Wellbeing with Dr. Kristen Holmes

There’s SO much more to a healthy diet than calories in vs. calories out.  That’s why in today’s episode, I’m joined by renowned physician and metabolic health expert Dr. Jason Fung to unpack the science of hunger and why we’ve totally dropped the ball on healthy eating habits in today’s society.  We dive into the concept of food noise and explore the different types of hunger—especially the environmental and conditioned cues that are quietly driving your eating habits.  Dr. Fung explains how awareness of these triggers can be a powerful first step in shifting your relationship with food so you can feel healthier than ever before.  Drawing from insights in his book The Hunger Code, he shares practical strategies to help you identify your triggers and regain control over your appetite. Tune in here for some empowering tools to feel confident and amazing in your body again!  Dr. Jason Fung  Dr. Jason Fung is a physician, researcher, and New York Times best-selling author currently practicing in Toronto. His books, including The Obesity Code, The Complete Guide to Fasting, The Diabetes Code, and The Cancer Code, challenge conventional thinking and offer loads of dietary strategies to improve overall health. He’s the co-founder of The Fasting Method, which provides the education, tools, and community needed to successfully implement intermittent fasting. He’s also the medical director of The Diabetes Code Clinic in Toronto, focused on type 2 diabetes remission. IN THIS EPISODE The importance of focusing on your hunger over calorie counting  Breaking our conditioned responses to eating  Looking at the social context and environmental factors for hunger What’s really triggering your hunger cues  Best tips for avoiding ultra-processed foods  Dr. Fung’s 3 golden rules of weight loss  Lifestyle choices that can make a drastic impact on your weight Understanding hedonic hunger and other important topics found in Dr. Fung’s book: The Hunger Code QUOTES “You can only take care of the problem if you understand the problem. So once you understand ‘this food noise, it's this conditioned hunger’, now you can actually come up with a plan so that [you’re] prepared for this.” “It's really a game changer in that it will hopefully really broaden people's perspective on the key issues. I have the three golden rules, but there's like 50 weight loss tips because everybody's different.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Order my new book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Order Dr. Fung’s book: The Hunger Code HERE– and get a FREE gift with your pre-order! https://www.doctorjasonfung.com/gift-with-purchase-offer https://www.amazon.com/Hunger-Code-Resetting-Thermostat-Ultra-Processed-ebook The Fasting Method Dr. Fung on Instagram RELATED EPISODES  708: Calories Aren’t the Problem: What Midlife Women Really Need to Know About Fat Loss with Brian Keane 698: Food Noise, Cravings, and Midlife Weight Gain: How to Regain Control Naturally with Sarah Kennedy 696: Why Diets Stop Working in Midlife—and What Actually Helps Instead with Lara Frendjian 682: The Simple Daily Habit That Balances Blood Sugar, Boosts Energy & Extends Longevity #613: Effective Tools for Curbing Your Appetite in Midlife and Optimizing Your Blood Sugar with Nagina Sethi Abdullah

Feeling like even the smallest things are suddenly overwhelming you?  This is actually part of a much bigger hormonal and neurological shift happening beneath the surface.  In today’s episode, I’m covering one of the most common—and least talked about—midlife experiences: the brain-related changes that come with perimenopause.  Even women who experience few classic symptoms like hot flashes are still undergoing silent physiological changes affecting the brain, bones, muscles, metabolism, and cardiovascular health.  We explore why perimenopause can be a destabilizing but deeply transformative recalibration where everything from hormones to lifestyle habits comes up for review.  So I’m breaking down simple daily habits you can start right away to support your brain, stabilize your energy, and reduce overwhelm without adding more to your already full plate.  Ready to clear the fog and feel like yourself again in midlife? Tune in here for the science-backed tools to start today. 🧠 IN THIS EPISODE The massive neuroendocrine shift happening in midlife What’s actually happening to the brain during perimenopause  Managing midlife inflammation and your immune system  The benefits of balancing your blood sugar and metabolism  How short bursts of activity can help you reclaim your energy  Honoring your circadian rhythm and prioritizing sleep  Why building strength and resilience in midlife is so important Managing your nervous system and avoiding cortisol spikes  How to join my FREE 7-day reset challenge to reignite your energy and metabolism!  QUOTES “Over 70% of women in perimenopause experience brain-related symptoms: mood changes, sleep disruptions, hot flashes, night sweats, anxiety, irritability, cognitive shifts, memory lapses, and low stress resilience. Eight out of the 10 most common symptoms in perimenopause are brain-related.” “This is metabolic neuroscience, and this is exactly why we cannot just push through the brain fog. We need to stabilize glucose. We need to lower insulin spikes. We need a calm cortisol. We need to reduce the inflammatory load.”  “These are the signals that we get to listen to, and that's why I created something to help you decode those signals and give your body back what it has been asking for.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Discover my Morning Metabolic Ignition Method in my FREE 7-day Jumpstart Program https://go.drmariza.com/lp/reignite-your-energy/ Order my newest book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ The Menopause Brain by Dr. Lisa Moscone RELATED EPISODES  721: No, It’s Not All in Your Head: The Medical Truth About Perimenopause with Dr. Jila Senemar 718: Low-Grade Inflammation: The Hidden Root of Fatigue, Brain Fog, and Hormone Imbalance with Dr. Shivani Gupta 717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause 701: Mood Swings, Brain Fog & Exhaustion: The Hormone Conversation You Deserve with Dr. Carrie Jones 690: The Perimenopause Revolution: Why midlife isn’t the end — it’s the beginning of your most energized, powerful, and vibrant self

Midlife is a time for rebirth… a time to come into who you truly are.  In today’s episode, I’m sitting down with the brilliant Dr. Deanna Minich to dive into how this stage of life can bring you to the best version of yourself after years of balancing roles, expectations, and responsibilities.  Dr. Minich shares why midlife is the perfect time to rediscover your voice, clarify your needs, and define your non-negotiables so you can live the next chapter on your own terms.  We’re reframing menopause not as an ending, but as the beginning of a powerful second half of life filled with purpose and authenticity.  Ready to reclaim your energy and step into midlife with clarity and confidence?  Tune in here!  Deanna Minich, PhD, MS, CNS, IFMCP Deanna Minich is a nutrition scientist, international lecturer, educator, and author with over 25 years of experience in academia and in the food and dietary supplement industries. She’s the Chief Science Officer at Symphony Natural Health, and has written seven books and over 50 scientific publications. Her work aims to help others live well by using therapeutic lifestyle changes that impact their physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual health. IN THIS EPISODE Uncommon signs that you’re entering  perimenopause  The importance of musculoskeletal strength in midlife What’s really going on with female hormones in perimenopause  Setting boundaries in midlife in your relationships and career Balancing lifestyle changes and hormone replacement therapy for optimal results  How to navigate stress and manage your nervous system Finding your authentic self in perimenopause and beyond How to connect with Dr. Deanna for more midlife expertise  QUOTES “I think it's a really powerful system and I think the best thing for women, no matter if you're going through perimenopause, you're just about to enter, or even if you're post, it's really connecting into that wisdom within that we have as the endocrine system.” “There's no way I could ever do women's health on my own. I want to be connected to a collaborative, to a team, to other people in the space where we rise together and we really get the message out. So that's what I've been doing.” “Here’s the message for women: we all need a way to bring ourselves into better coherence, better emotional, mental status, like where we feel in the zone.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Use code ENERGIZED and get 10% off on your Troscription Order http://troscriptions.com/ENERGIZED Use code ENERGIZED and get 15% off on your entire purchase https://symphonynaturalhealth.com/products/herbatonin https://symphonynaturalhealth.com/products/macalife Dr. Deanna’s Website Dr. Deanna on Instagram Dr. Deanna on Facebook Symphony Natural Health Website RELATED EPISODES  724: Age Like A Girl: Why Midlife Women Stop Shrinking and Start Leading with Dr. Mindy Pelz  721: No, It’s Not All in Your Head: The Medical Truth About Perimenopause with Dr. Jila Senemar 720: Why No One Talks About Loneliness in Midlife—And Why It’s Not Just You  574: The Connection between Trauma, the Immune System, and Autoimmune Disease: Lab Testing and Solutions with Dr. Sara Szal Gottfried

Struggling to reclaim your identity and find joy in midlife?  You’re far from the only one! In this episode, I’m joined by women’s health and hormone expert Dr. Sonya Jensen to explore how you can turn your midlife overwhelm into a true awakening.   We talk about the reality of this season—juggling kids, careers, aging parents, and big life transitions—while your body undergoes one of its most profound hormonal and emotional shifts.  Unresolved trauma can surface out of nowhere during perimenopause and menopause, but we cover why these mental and emotional shifts make sense biologically. Dr. Jensen invites you to reframe midlife as a powerful opportunity to celebrate change rather than resist it, and to reconnect with peace, joy, and self-trust.   This conversation is packed with tools to help you refocus your mind and reclaim the parts of yourself that may have been lost along the way.  Tune in here to redefine who you are in midlife! Dr. Sonya Jensen ND Sonya Jensen is a Naturopathic Physician, international speaker, author, and embodied healer who guides women to reclaim their power through hormonal wisdom, emotional depth, and ancestral healing. She integrates trauma-informed modalities, herbs, nutrition, hormone therapy, longevity medicine, and nervous system support to address the unseen patterns behind hormonal imbalance. Dr. Sonya Jensen is the founder of the HER Method and the HER Community, where she helps women decode the stories their bodies are telling to transform relationships, fertility, perimenopause, and life’s transitions.  IN THIS EPISODE Shifts that happen physically and mentally in perimenopause  How to handle the resurfacing of trauma that comes in midlife  Changing the narrative around women’s hormonal shifts in all stages of life  Showing yourself grace and recognizing that shifts in your mental capacity are normal and okay Making changes to help support your emotions during perimenopause and menopause  Best lifestyle tips to regulate your mind and body back to a state of peace  Discussing boundaries and discernment in midlife and what that can look like for you  How to learn more about healing your hormones with Dr. Sonya Jensen’s latest book  QUOTES “I wish I had just sat down with other women and just talked about these transitions, and just talked about the challenges I'm feeling. But when you have this pressure on yourself to make it seem like you have it all together so you can hold space for others, it's really challenging to ask for help.” “When we normalize that, then we can normalize perimenopause and the changes that we go through and the suffering that we may go through, but we can have a different relationship to that suffering.” “We're losing those hormones. We're losing that armor. We're losing that protection that those hormones we're giving you. So if we're low in estrogen, most women will feel less motivated, maybe a little bit more depressed, maybe more fearful too because estrogen does help to stabilize that fear center.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Order my latest book: The Perimenopause Revolution HERE https://peri-revolution.com/ Order Dr. Jensen’s Book: Heal Your Hormones, Reclaim Yourself http://www.healyourhormonesbook.com Dr. Jensen’s Website Dr. Jensen on Instagram RELATED EPISODES  722: Why Women Feel Unsafe Right Now: Trauma, Hormones & Protecting the Next Generation with Dr. Aimie Apigian 720: Why No One Talks About Loneliness in Midlife—And Why It’s Not Just You  717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause 702: How to Heal Trauma and Rebuild Trust Through Connectability with Anna Runkle

It can take about 4 to 6 doctor’s visits for women’s symptoms to finally be connected to perimenopause and menopause.  So how do you know you’re entering this massive transition?  In today’s episode, I’m joined by women’s health and nutrition expert Dr. Amy Shah for a deep dive into midlife transitions and why our healthcare system still struggles to make these critical links.  Dr. Shah shares her own beautiful ascension, revealing how a season of life that can feel destabilizing is also deeply transformative. Through tips from her own experience combined with her well-rounded medical expertise, you’ll walk away with clarity and confidence. We also talk about intentionality in midlife—how to navigate new opportunities, say yes to growth, and still carve out space for yourself.  If you’re ready to step into your next level with purpose and self-trust, tune in here! Amy Shah, MD  Dr. Amy Shah is a double board-certified MD and nutritionist with training from Cornell, Columbia, and Harvard. She’s a gut-health expert, best-selling author, and worldwide educator in women’s health. She focuses on evidence-based research in women’s health and hormones, nutrition, fitness, and lifestyle medicine, helping people transform their health, digestion, and natural hormone balance. Her goal is to help you save yourself by prioritizing physical and mental health, even amidst the busiest of schedules.   IN THIS EPISODE Tips for recognizing when you’re in perimenopause  Finding lifestyle strategies that work best for you in perimenopause  What changes in your body in midlife, and how to best show up in this new and different way  Changing your internal narrative and improving self-talk in perimenopause  The biggest things that should change in women’s modern medicine  How to move away from a place of fear and let go of holding back in midlife  Best tips for smoothly navigating the perimenopause transition Where to get more of Dr. Amy’s best midlife recommendations  QUOTES “Once I started doing that, it improved things so much. That cortisol strategy, the cortisol reset, that is what changed everything.” “What’s taking me into the next phase of my life is that we don't have a lot of time. We are allowed to fail. We are all imperfect, flawed people. And if you just give yourself permission to do things that you really want to do in this life, this is the time.” “Go in with confidence, open eyes, and start doing things proactively because, like I said, your gut and your hormones are so connected that if you start improving your gut health, all of a sudden your brain health improves. Your hormone health is going to improve, and this rocky roller coaster of a transition will be so much smoother.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Order my latest book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Dr. Amy’s Website Sign up for Dr. Amy’s Free Newsletter HERE Dr. Amy’s Podcast: Save Yourself Dr. Amy on Instagram Dr. Amy’s YouTube Channel RELATED EPISODES  721: No, It’s Not All in Your Head: The Medical Truth About Perimenopause with Dr. Jila Senemar 704: Hormone Intelligence for Women in Midlife: How to Thrive Through Perimenopause with Dr. Aviva Romm 690: The Perimenopause Revolution: Why midlife isn’t the end — it’s the beginning of your most energized, powerful, and vibrant self 490: Why We Crave The Foods We Crave and What We Can Finally Do About It with Dr. Amy Shah

“There's no better human on the planet to stand up for herself once she realizes how powerful she is than a menopausal woman.” Wise words spoken by the wonderful Dr. Mindy Pelz, who joins the podcast to unpack what’s quietly shaping how we as women see ourselves, our bodies, and our worth.  We explore how unresolved trauma biology impacts longevity, influencing everything from nervous system regulation to autoimmunity and cardiovascular health, especially in the post-menopausal years.  This conversation validates what so many women are feeling right now: a shared awakening and a call to speak up and come together. Dr. Pelz reminds us that you can lead change without traumatizing your nervous systems.  You’ll hear some empowering ways to alchemize frustration and grief into meaningful action through community and connection.  Tune in here to join the conversation and learn to stand up for yourself in midlife and beyond!  Mindy Pelz  Dr. Mindy Pelz is a New York Times bestselling author and a globally recognized voice in women’s health, hormones, and aging. Her bestselling books, including her newest – Age Like A Girl– teach women how to sync with their hormones, harness the power of fasting, and age with strength and purpose. Through her top-rated The Resetter Podcast and YouTube channel, Dr. Mindy is leading a movement to reframe menopause as a time of awakening and help women step into the most powerful chapter of their lives.  IN THIS EPISODE 1. The biology of trauma and its impact on women  2. Addressing the patriarchal system in health care  3. Tapping into your intuition, especially in perimenopause  4. Rewriting the narrative in midlife and showing up for yourself  5. Qualities to look for in a doctor and how to best advocate for yourself  6.  Tips for owning your power amid the chaos going on today  7. Having the hard conversations and coming together as strong, powerful women in midlife  8. All you can gain from Dr. Mindy’s new book: Age Like a Girl  QUOTES “When you look at your health, you also need to look at your friend group. You need to look at your home environment. You need to look at the messaging you're allowing into your brain. All of this really matters to the feminine body.” “This rewire that happens at menopause is for our benefit because we can finally stand up for ourselves, we can gather with other women. This is the evolutionary explanation of menopause.” “In all the research I've done on menopause, there's no better human on the planet to stand up for herself once she realizes how powerful she is than a menopausal woman.”RESOURCES MENTIONED Order my new book: The Perimenopause Revolution HERE! https://peri-revolution.com/ Order Dr. Mindy’s Book: Age Like a Girl HERE! https://www.discover.hayhouse.com/agelikeagirl/ Dr. Mindy Pelz Website ⁠The Resetter Podcast Dr. Mindy on Socials:  Instagram TikTok YouTube RELATED EPISODES  722: Why Women Feel Unsafe Right Now: Trauma, Hormones & Protecting the Next Generation with Dr. Aimie Apigian 721: No, It’s Not All in YourHead: The Medical Truth About Perimenopause with Dr. Jila Senemar 720: Why No One Talks About Loneliness in Midlife—And Why It’s Not Just You 717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause

For most of the past century, more women than men have died from cardiovascular disease. Yet, heart disease is still widely perceived as a male problem.  That’s why in this episode, we dive into why cardiovascular and metabolic health are essential for women, especially in midlife, and why education is your greatest tool.  You’ll gain the confidence to advocate for yourself and make informed decisions about your long-term health. I’ll also be sharing my favorite simple habits to kickstart your metabolism, protect your heart, and boost your everyday energy.  Remember, it never has to be perfect—consistency builds momentum, and that’s where real change begins.  Tune in here to gain key insight and prioritize yourself and your longevity! IN THIS EPISODE Recognizing the warning signs of cardiovascular disease  Labs and markers you should be asking your physician for  Why lifestyle medicine matters SO much in midlife  How to build metabolically healthy plates for each meal Setting simple movement goals for optimal heart health The massive benefits of sleep, mindfulness, and breath work Supplements to support your cardiovascular and metabolic health The pros of appropriately timed hormone replacement therapy  QUOTES “Heart disease kills more women than all cancers combined. Not breast cancer, not ovarian cancer. All cancers combined. And what's even more alarming for most women, the warning signs begin years- sometimes decades- before a heart attack or stroke ever happens.”  “Research shows that insulin resistance is a primary driver of cardio metabolic disease in women, especially after menopause.” “You do not need perfection. You need 7,000 steps per day, walking after meals, fewer long sitting stretches. Get up and move your butt, even if it means walking around your house or going around the block. Start building your life around movement. This is one of the most powerful yet underestimated tools for heart health and for your resilience.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Order my new book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Order your Berkeley Life Nitric Oxide Support Supplement https://berkeleylife.pxf.io/Vxvdja RELATED EPISODES  716: Midlife, Hormones & Heart Health: The Critical Connection You’re Not Hearing About with Cathy Eason 711: Estrogen, Inflammation, and Your Heart Health: What Every Woman Needs to Know with Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj 690: The Perimenopause Revolution: Why midlife isn’t the end — it’s the beginning of your most energized, powerful, and vibrant self 686: Your Second Puberty Explained: What’s Really Happening to Your Body in Perimenopause

What if the breaking point so many of us are feeling right now is actually the beginning of profound healing and purpose?  In this episode, returning guest and trauma expert Dr. Aimie Apigian helps you understand why so many conversations feel triggering—and how unresolved trauma, not just current events, may be at the root.  We explore the difference between resolved and unresolved trauma, and why being activated is a sign your body is asking for deeper safety and support.  We’re talking about shifting pain into meaningful action—whether that’s healing your body, setting boundaries, or standing up for change in a grounded way.  Dr. Aimie breaks down her sequence of healing and explains the science behind how trauma is stored and how it can truly be resolved.  Tune in here to go from overwhelmed to empowered! Aimie Apigian, MD  Dr. Aimie Apigian is a double-board-certified physician in Preventive and Addiction Medicine with double Master’s degrees in biochemistry and public health. She’s the leading medical expert on how trauma becomes our biology and what to do once it creates a chronic health condition. She hosts a podcast, a YouTube channel, and online Summits, working with experts in the health and trauma space. She also leads groups through her programs to address stored trauma in the body, and teaches practitioners to do the same in her Biology of Trauma online Training. IN THIS EPISODE Discovering new layers of unresolved trauma  Creating safe spaces to ask the hard questions How to make your children feel safe to share their feelings   The biology behind why we can feel re-triggered Creating safety & mentally supporting yourself through hard times Resetting your nervous system to feel safe in your body  How to support & show up for each other through uncertain times Dr. Aimie’s guide on healing stored trauma & more resources for you  QUOTES “Don't do anything alone. This is where a tribe, a group of people, can make a tremendous difference in the world.” “Healing is not staying small to stay safe. It's finding that safety, but then layering in the support on a biology level, on a somatic level, on a mind level. Those are all the three levels that allow our mind and body to have the energy to actually process.” “When we've had this past trauma, our brain likes to put things into those kinds of boxes. so being able to step back and learn over time that while it's important to speak up, it's also important to choose who I share those things with because it's not meant for everybody.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Order my latest book: The Perimenopause Revolution ⁠Dr. Aimie’s book: The Biology of Trauma https://a.co/d/09grbJrF⁠ Dr. Aimie’s Socials:  ⁠Dr. Aimie’s Website ⁠ Instagram Facebook LinkedIn  YouTube RELATED EPISODES  681: The Biology of Trauma: How Stress Gets Stored in Your Body (and Passed On to Your Kids) and How You Can Start To Heal with Dr. Aimie Apigian 720: Why No One Talks About Loneliness in Midlife—And Why It’s Not Just You 717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause 702: How to Heal Trauma and Rebuild Trust Through Connectability with Anna Runkle

What if midlife wasn’t a crisis to survive—but a turning point to optimize your health?  In this episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Dr. Jila Senemar, who breaks down what’s really happening in midlife and why preventative medicine is your greatest advantage.  Instead of waiting for a diagnosis, we explore why being proactive with your hormones, heart, brain, and metabolic health can change the trajectory of your next decades.  Dr. Jila reminds us that women’s health is rarely one-size-fits-all. Rather, it needs personalized, outside-the-box thinking. We talk about removing the shame, stigma, and outdated myths around perimenopause and menopause and celebrating this transition for what it truly is.  Tune in here for honest insight and practical lifestyle shifts to help you thrive in midlife! Jila Senemar, MD, FACOG, MSCP Dr. Jila Senemar is a board-certified OB/GYN with over 20 years of clinical experience. She’s a certified menopause specialist, longevity physician, and proud mom of three, who’s helped thousands of women feel strong and healthy at any age. Dr. Jila blends the best of conventional medicine with cutting-edge holistic solutions. Her individualized patient plans combine conventional gynecology practices with holistic care, prioritizing metabolic health, hormone optimization, and lifestyle redesign. IN THIS EPISODE Recognizing initial symptoms of perimenopause  The importance of prioritizing preventative medicine  Addressing the biggest myths around perimenopause  Supporting your body in ways you may not be used to during midlife  How to shift the midlife and menopause conversation  Setting yourself up for success before reaching menopause  QUOTES “I can be their gynecologist, and I can help them with the other components of their lifestyle modifications with exercise, nutrition, and hormonal optimization.” “I've learned a lot just by going through it and what the method provided me, which is how to learn and listen to my body. It was so different than what I was used to, and I think we each need to find what works for us.” “We need to change all of it. It's normal. It needs to be celebrated. It is what it is. It's part of us just being who we are… That’s our chemistry, that's our biology.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Order my latest book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Dr. Jila’s Website Dr. Jila on Instagram  RELATED EPISODES  720: Why No One Talks About Loneliness in Midlife—And Why It’s Not Just You 717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause 716: Midlife, Hormones & Heart Health: The Critical Connection You’re Not Hearing About with Cathy Eason 704: Hormone Intelligence for Women in Midlife: How to Thrive Through Perimenopause with Dr. Aviva Romm 690: The Perimenopause Revolution: Why midlife isn’t the end — it’s the beginning of your most energized, powerful, and vibrant self

Do you find yourself feeling disconnected even when you’re busy and surrounded by people?  If you've ever felt that ache of invisible loneliness, this episode is for you. We unpack why loneliness can sneak into midlife—especially as hormones shift—and name the quiet grief many women feel but rarely talk about. This conversation is about reminding your nervous system that you’re not doing life alone, and that relationships, community, and meaningful time with friends can make all the difference.  And because loneliness feels like it hits so much harder these days, I’ll share some simple, practical tools to help you reconnect and feel more supported.  Plus, I’ll tell you all about my 7-day jumpstart designed to help you feel grounded, connected, and more like yourself again.  Tune in here!  IN THIS EPISODE Recognizing the feelings of loneliness in midlife  Why perimenopause can bring a sense of loneliness for women  Why so many women push through their feelings in midlife  The benefits of quality relationships and a sense of community Basic strategies to combat feelings of loneliness  How to build community in my 7-day jumpstart program  QUOTES “Loneliness can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, dementia, anxiety, depression, and yes, more severe perimenopausal symptoms.” “It's disconnection layered on top of hormonal vulnerability. That's why this time really is a zone of vulnerability.” “We're gonna be talking about nervous system regulation and gut health. Really diving into the things that get you feeling the way that you wanna feel again, but more importantly, we're gonna talk about how to stay connected to yourself and to other women while you're in the middle of it.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Join my 7- Day Metabolism and Hormone Jumpstart https://go.drmariza.com/lp/metabolism-jumpstart/ Order my latest book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ RELATED EPISODES 717: “I Don’t Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause 712: WHY LIFESTYLE MEDICINE IS MITOCHONDRIAL MEDICINE (AND WHAT THAT MEANS FOR YOUR ENERGY, METABOLISM & LONGEVITY) 710: KICKSTART YOUR NEW YEAR: HOW ONE SIMPLE HABIT CAN TRANSFORM YOUR LIFE, HEALTH, AND MINDSET 704: HORMONE INTELLIGENCE FOR WOMEN IN MIDLIFE: HOW TO THRIVE THROUGH PERIMENOPAUSE WITH DR. AVIVA ROMM 575: Transform Your Life Through Self Love, Trusting Your Heart and Raising Your Self Worth with Roxy Saffaie

What if the missing piece to your wellness journey wasn’t a supplement or a workout… but light? In this podcast, we’re talking about one of the most underrated tools in health and hormone optimization: red light therapy. Expert in the area, Ari Whitten, joins me to shine light on red light and all the ways it can boost your health and confidence long term. Ari is a bestselling author, a top podcast host, and one of the most trusted voices in the science of energy, mitochondria, and red light therapy. In this episode, we cover: Why red light therapy is a game-changer for women in midlife How it impacts your hormones, sleep, brain, skin, and fat metabolism What most people get completely wrong about red light dosing And how to avoid wasting money on the wrong devices Ari’s here to cut through the wellness noise and deliver the truth—with clarity and science to back it up. Tune in here for a deep dive into all red light therapy can do for you!  Ari Whitten, M.S. Ari Whitten is the founder of The Energy Blueprint and bestselling author of The Ultimate Guide to Red Light Therapy and Eat for Energy. He has a B.S. in Exercise Science and a Master of Science in Human Nutrition and Functional Medicine. For over 30 years, he’s immersed himself in nutrition science, exercise physiology, and evolutionary biology, as well as cutting-edge areas like neuroscience, geroscience, circadian science, microbiome research, and more. He hosts The Energy Blueprint Podcast, and his books, online programs, coaching, and nutritional supplement line have helped thousands of people worldwide to optimize their health, energy, and longevity. IN THIS EPISODE What is red light therapy, and how can it benefit your health?  How to make time for red light therapy in your routine  The importance of high-quality red light therapy  Different red light devices for targeting your needs in the body  The science and studies behind red light therapy  How to maximize systemic benefits of red light therapy  About Ari’s book: The Ultimate Guide to Red Light Therapy QUOTES“There’s an enormous amount of poor quality devices, worthless devices, junk devices on the market that are a waste of money that won't do anything valuable.” “If your interest is combating arthritis or affecting a certain muscle or tendon injury or ankle sprain or something like that, you want to focus on the dose of light delivered directly to those tissues. On the other hand, if you are interested in general anti-aging health longevity... The bigger concern is actually the total dose of light delivered to your overall body.” “A lot of the focus is on the intensity of the light… But the other thing is: how big of a surface area is that intensity of light hitting? What is the total amount of light delivered to the tissue? That’s going to hugely impact those systemic effects like the release of stem cells into your circulation.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Order Ari’s book: The Ultimate Guide to Red Light Therapy on Amazon https://theenergyblueprint.com/ https://www.amazon.com/Ultimate-Guide-Light-Therapy-Revised/ The Energy Blueprint Website The Energy Blueprint Podcast RELATED EPISODES  623: RED LIGHT THERAPY FOR UPGRADING YOUR MITOCHONDRIA, CELLULAR ENERGY, SKIN AND BRAIN HEALTH WITH JONATHAN OTTO 693: TIRED ALL THE TIME? IT MIGHT BE HIDDEN PROBLEMS WITH YOUR MITOCHONDRIA WITH SIOBHAN MITCHELL 712: WHY LIFESTYLE MEDICINE IS MITOCHONDRIAL MEDICINE (AND WHAT THAT MEANS FOR YOUR ENERGY, METABOLISM & LONGEVITY) 704: HORMONE INTELLIGENCE FOR WOMEN IN MIDLIFE: HOW TO THRIVE THROUGH PERIMENOPAUSE WITH DR. AVIVA ROMM

What if those frustrating symptoms you’ve been blaming on aging are actually signs of inflammation you can change?  In this episode, I sit down with expert Dr. Shivani Gupta to unpack how inflammation quietly shows up in perimenopause—and why it’s not something you have to just deal with.  We explore what Ayurvedic medicine is, and how it offers a holistic, intuitive approach to healing inflammation, soothing the gut, and restoring balance as your hormones shift in midlife.  Dr. Shivani offers simple, practical solutions to help your body feel more resilient from the inside out. She also shares how her targeted supplements are designed to support gut ease, hormone balance, and whole-body vitality.  Tune in here to help calm inflammation and feel more at home in your body again! Dr. Shivani Gupta Dr. Shivani Gupta is an Ayurvedic practitioner and turmeric researcher who helps women reduce inflammation, balance hormones, and boost energy. Her new book, The Inflammation Code, offers a clear, non-diet plan for reducing inflammation. She hosts the Fusionary Health Podcast and created the Emmy-nominated TV show: Vibrant Health with Dr. Shivani Gupta. IN THIS EPISODE How Dr. Shivani became the expert she is in inflammation  The benefits of turmeric for decreasing systemic inflammation  How integrative medicine is key to addressing the underlying symptoms of inflammation and imbalance  Dr. Shivani’s Ayurvedic teas for promoting sleep quality  The easiest self-care ritual you can do from your car  Supplementation dosing for best reducing inflammation  Top benefits from Dr. Shivani’s supplement recommendations  Successful management of inflammation in perimenopause  What to expect in Dr. Shivani’s new book: The Inflammation Code QUOTES “Most people don't recognize or realize those subtle symptoms of inflammation that are accumulating.” “We are all inflamed. Whoever you are, you are inflamed. It’s a slow-burning fire.” “My goal is for everyone to take the elemental design quiz. Learn their constitution and know for themselves… Are they more fire or are they more earth and water in nature? Because once you understand those elements, you can really start applying it to every aspect of your life.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Order Dr. Shivani Gupta’s Book: The Inflammation Code HERE! https://amzn.to/4qyun0U Use code DRMARIZA and get 15% off on your Fusionary Formulas Supplements https://fusionaryformulas.com/?sca_ref=10093791.KsELRqb7lE Dr. Shivani’s Website: Take the Elemental Design Quiz HERE! http://shivanigupta.com 7-Day Inflammation Detox Challenge https://www.7dayinflammationdetox.com/optin1641313075014 Dr. Shivani on Instagram Dr. Shivani on Facebook Dr. Shivani on YouTube  RELATED EPISODES  716: Midlife, Hormones & Heart Health: The Critical Connection You’re Not Hearing About with Cathy Eason #635: The Connection Between Your Gut, Inflammation, Mood, and How to Start Healing Your Microbiome with Tina Anderson 711: Estrogen, Inflammation, and Your Heart Health: What Every Woman Needs to Know with Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj 709: GLP-1 Medications, Gut Health, and Food as Medicine: A Smarter, Personalized Approach for Women in Midlife with Ashley Koff

Feeling totally unlike yourself in midlife?  Don’t worry– this is a REAL and valid feeling.  In this episode, we dive into the hidden neurological shifts that happen during perimenopause, and how these hormone fluctuations impact your brain, mood, and sense of self.  We explore the mental and emotional realities of this transition— changes that are too often misunderstood or brushed off as something to just deal with.  Rather than pushing through, these brain-based shifts are a clear signal that your body is asking for a new level of support.  I’m breaking down what’s actually happening neurologically and why self-love and proper care matter more than willpower. Tune in here for the most practical ways to support your brain through perimenopause! IN THIS EPISODE How hormone shifts in perimenopause impact you physically and emotionally  Supporting your body in a different way during perimenopause  How perimenopause can be the awakening your body needs  The benefits of my 7- Day Metabolism and Hormone Jumpstart Why simple, easy routines are the most impactful for you  All about my Midlife on Fire Collective and how it can help you! QUOTES “We know that 8 out of 10 of the most common symptoms women experience during perimenopause are neurological, cognitive, and emotional. That's why so many women say ‘I don't feel like myself’.” “Perimenopause isn't a breakdown. It's a biological awakening. It's a biological initiation. It's your body asking for a new way forward. Not harder, not faster, but wiser.” “Everyone was amazed at how easy it was to go to sleep a bit earlier, how easy it was to move after meals, how easy it was to move throughout the day, how easy it was to make a morning and evening routine that felt good to them.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Join my Midlife on Fire Collective HERE!  Join my 7- Day Metabolism and Hormone Jumpstart HERE!  Order my latest book: The Perimenopause Revolution HERE RELATED EPISODES  710: KICKSTART YOUR NEW YEAR: HOW ONE SIMPLE HABIT CAN TRANSFORM YOUR LIFE, HEALTH, AND MINDSET 712: WHY LIFESTYLE MEDICINE IS MITOCHONDRIAL MEDICINE (AND WHAT THAT MEANS FOR YOUR ENERGY, METABOLISM & LONGEVITY) 704: HORMONE INTELLIGENCE FOR WOMEN IN MIDLIFE: HOW TO THRIVE THROUGH PERIMENOPAUSE WITH DR. AVIVA ROMM 609: NON-NEGOTIABLE ADVICE I WOULD GIVE MY EARLY PERIMENOPAUSAL SELF

Aging does NOT have to keep us down. In this episode, join me for a feel-good conversation with the CSO of Berkeley Life– Cathy Eason– all about midlife, hormones, and protecting your heart as you age stronger.  Together, we explore how boosting mitochondrial health and blood flow can radically improve energy, resilience, and overall vitality.  Kathy shares actionable lifestyle strategies to increase nitric oxide production for easing symptoms, plus offers supportive solutions when you need a little extra help during perimenopause and menopause.  We also talk about targeted supplements that support heart health, circulation, mood, sleep, stress response, and neurotransmitters—all in one place.  Tune in here to boost your blood flow, help your heart, and thrive through midlife and beyond!Cathy Eason Cathy Eason is the Chief Science Officer at Berkeley Life. She has over 20 years of experience as a functional medicine focused nutritionist, women’s health educator, speaker, and wellness strategist specializing in midlife health. She bridges cutting-edge science with practical solutions for perimenopause and menopause, focusing on cardiovascular health, nitric oxide biochemistry, and whole-body resilience. Cathy’s known for translating complex physiology into empowering insights that help women thrive through midlife and beyond. IN THIS EPISODE Cathy’s perimenopause journey & her non-negotiables for thriving through it  The benefits of regulating your nervous system How insulin resistance impacts perimenopause symptoms  Why we need to talk more about blood flow for whole body wellness  The benefit of nitric oxide in perimenopause and menopause  How to best support yourself through midlife hormone shifts  The positive impact of Berkeley Life supplementation  How to get 15% off your Berkeley Life Nitric Oxide supplement!  QUOTES“We're seeing those perimenopausal signs come on earlier and earlier, and unfortunately, I think it's happening to younger and younger women too.” “We need to stop apologizing for what's happening to us. Recognize that we can be proactive about our health, but we also don't have to apologize for sweating during a meeting, or being a little cranky in the morning because we didn't get good sleep the night before.” “That’s the biggest thing I feel by taking the Berkeley Life supplementation— I have consistent energy every day and I wake up motivated for the day ahead of me. And to me that equates to being energized, to having mitochondrial energy to get me through the day.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Order my new book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Order your Berkeley Life Nitric Oxide Support Supplement HERE! https://berkeleylife.pxf.io/Vxvdja Use Code: THRIVE15 for 15% off! Berkeley Life Website Berkeley Life on Instagram Berkeley Life on Facebook Berkeley Life LinkedIn Berkeley Life on YouTube RELATED EPISODES  675: Feeling Off After 40? The Surprising Vitality Molecule to Reignite Your Energy, Libido & Confidence with Cathy Eason 711: Estrogen, Inflammation, and Your Heart Health: What Every Woman Needs to Know with Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj 704: Hormone Intelligence for Women in Midlife: How to Thrive Through Perimenopause with Dr. Aviva Romm 693: Tired All the Time? It Might Be Hidden Problems With Your Mitochondria with Siobhan Mitchell

You can ALWAYS get stronger, no matter your age.  In this episode, I’m joined by muscle-centric medicine expert Dr. Gabrielle Lyon to reframe how you think about your health—starting with muscle.  Life gets busy and chaotic, especially when you’re juggling kids, work, and everything in between. So Dr. Lyon breaks down how to simplify your focus and double down on what truly moves the needle for your health.  At the center of it all? Skeletal muscle– the key driver of metabolic health, strength, and resilience as we age. She explains why protecting and building muscle isn’t about aesthetics—it’s about safeguarding your heart, brain, and long-term vitality.  We’re here to remind you that strength training is really about training for your future self, and it can be easier than you may think. Ready to boost your strength and confidence in midlife? This is an episode you don’t want to miss! 💪 Dr. Gabrielle Lyon  Dr. Gabrielle Lyon is a board-certified physician, founder of the Muscle-Centric Medicine® movement, and New York Times bestselling author. With advanced training in nutritional sciences and geriatrics from Washington University in St. Louis, Dr. Lyon is at the forefront of a health revolution that places muscle, the organ of longevity, at the core of aging well, disease prevention, and optimal performance. Through her clinical work, bestselling book Forever Strong, and top-ranked podcast The Dr. Gabrielle Lyon Show, she challenges outdated paradigms of health and empowers others to build bodies and minds that thrive. IN THIS EPISODE Understanding muscle-centric medicine and why muscle is the organ of longevity Dr. Lyon’s new book full of practical ways to boost muscle health  How to fit building muscle into a busy day-to-day routine  What happens to your strength and muscle mass overtime  The importance of a well-defined strength program in midlife Adding HIIT to your routine without overdoing it  Muscle medicine and movement for your metabolic health  Training for injury prevention and longevity  How recovery can be just as important as training  Navigating exercise and training when traveling  QUOTES “I'm very proud of it because it distills down the science to give you actionable items, why you're doing what you're doing. Protocols for recovery, protocols for heat, protocols for cold, how to eat, how to move, how to think. I mean, it just makes it easy and accessible to everybody.” “The idea that you cannot get stronger or that you've peaked in high school, or that somehow you hit 40 or 50 and you cannot get stronger is not true. You can always get stronger and you can always put on muscle. You do not have to lift heavy, and again, heavy is relative.” “What I think ultimately moves the needle is if we have an idea of where our values are. I think we're at this precipice of women recognizing that strength is critical.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Order my new book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Order The Forever Strong PLAYBOOK HERE! The PLAYBOOK is designed as a six-week action plan, balancing science with practical tools, routines, illustrations, and reflection prompts Dr. Lyon’s Website Dr. Lyon’s Instagram Dr. Lyon on YouTube RELATED EPISODES  #552: THE MIDLIFE MUSCLE CRISIS: WHY MAINTAINING MUSCLE IS NECESSARY FOR FAT LOSS, STRENGTH AND LONGEVITY WITH DR. GABRIELLE LYON #632: THE SECRET TO OPTIMAL SLEEP, RESILIENCE, PERFORMANCE AND EMOTIONAL WELLBEING WITH DR. KRISTEN HOLMES #576: HOW TO BUILD BONE, MUSCLE, TENDON, AND METABOLIC RESILIENCE IN PERIMENOPAUSE AND MENOPAUSE WITH DR. VONDA WRIGHT #546: HOW TO STAY LEAN, ENERGIZED AND STRONG BY WORKING WITH YOUR PHYSIOLOGY, NOT AGAINST IT WITH DR. STACY SIMS

Curious how to drink less alcohol, but still make your drinks fun?  Join me in this episode for a refreshing conversation with mocktail expert and holistic nutritionist Blair Horton, who’s on a mission to transform your drinks into a feel-good ritual of self-care. We dive into her new book, Everyday Elixirs, packed with thoughtfully crafted, seasonal, and functional recipes for mocktails and other beverages. Think immunity-boosting citrus, digestion-loving botanicals, anti-inflammatory herbs, and flavors so good you won’t miss the booze! Blair’s philosophy is simple: wellness should be joyful, accessible, and delicious. She walks us through how swapping or reducing alcohol doesn’t have to feel like deprivation—it can actually feel like an upgrade.  Whether you’re winding down after a long day, hosting friends, or proactively supporting your health, Blair shows how a thoughtfully made mocktail can help you feel like the best version of you.  Tune in here! Blair Horton Blair Horton is a holistic nutritionist, natural chef, and author of the new book: Everyday Elixirs. Her love for nourishing the body met her desire to create drinks that feel special. What started as a simple idea for beautiful, alcohol-free options grew into a collection of 80 vibrant mocktail and wellness beverage recipes in her book. She continues to inspire others to choose natural, blood-sugar-balancing beverages to aid in health and longevity, all while feeling (and tasting!) good.  IN THIS EPISODE Blair’s inspiration behind her new book, Everyday Elixirs Easy, fast, and fun mocktails to whip up anytime of year  Creative and tasty matcha drinks  Leaning into the seasons and getting creative with ingredients  Dedicating certain drinks to certain times of the day  Best bedtime drinks to promote restful sleep  Choosing and creating blood-sugar-balancing mocktails  Educating your kids on healthy drinks with real ingredients  Trying out new mocktails and hosting mocktail parties How to create healthier mocktails & even enjoy them out to eat! QUOTES“Anytime you're getting some extra liquid, it's going to be hydrating. And I love to put a pinch of salt in pretty much all of them to bring out the flavor, but also to help our bodies take in the water.”  “If your blood sugar isn't balanced, your mental health is not going to be great… that's very important to me; keeping the drinks lower in sugar.” “I'm always focusing on how we add in the good versus focusing on taking out the bad.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Order my new book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ ⁠Join my 7-Day Hormone & Metabolism Jumpstart HERE! https://go.drmariza.com/lp/metabolism-jumpstart/ Blair’s book: Everyday Elixirs Blair on Instagram Check out my Blood Sugar-Friendly Mocktail Recipes HERE! RELATED EPISODES  713: What Alcohol Really Does to Women’s Hormones, Sleep, and Metabolism #619: The Impact of Alcohol on Women’s Health, From Hormones to Cancer #548: The Loaded Truth Behind Mom Wine Culture and the False Need to Wine Down with Celeste Yvonne #345: To Drink Or Not To Drink? Why Drinking as We Get Older Is Hard on Our Hormones #712: Why Lifestyle Medicine Is Mitochondrial Medicine (And What That Means for Your Energy, Metabolism & Longevity)

Feel like hangovers are hitting harder than ever lately?  In this episode, I’m unpacking why alcohol hits differently in perimenopause—and why that glass of wine you used to tolerate now leaves you feeling off for days.  Even long after drinking, alcohol is still disrupting your brain chemistry, slowing your metabolism, and amplifying inflammation throughout your body.  And as women’s alcohol consumption has quietly increased in recent years, understanding these hidden physiological shifts has never been more important.  That’s why I’m breaking down what’s really happening to your body with each sip, especially during midlife hormonal changes.  But don’t worry, I share my top tips for you to detox from alcohol successfully, curb cravings, and feel in charge of your body again. Tune in here to change your relationship with alcohol and feel more like yourself!  IN THIS EPISODE Why alcohol feels like it hits harder in midlife What a detox from alcohol can look like for you  The facts behind alcohol misuse and binge drinking  What really happens in a woman’s body when drinking alcohol  The symptoms of metabolic dysfunction brought on by drinking  My top recommendations for detoxing from alcohol   How to curb cravings and make non-alcoholic drinking more fun QUOTES “We've been sold a very expensive lie that alcohol helps us relax. And for years, I would've told you that it did just that, that that glass of red wine was self-care, that drinking was harmless.”  “It's not just a hangover anymore. It's not just getting older. Alcohol is impacting your hormones, your brain, your sleep, and your metabolism.” “In order to feed and heal your gut and your liver, we need a much-needed break, and alcohol simply cannot be included.” RESOURCES MENTIONED ⁠Join my 7-Day Hormone & Metabolism Jumpstart https://go.drmariza.com/lp/metabolism-jumpstart/ ⁠Order my new book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Check out my Blood Sugar-Friendly Mocktail Recipes HERE! RELATED EPISODES  #619: The Impact of Alcohol on Women’s Health, From Hormones to Cancer #548: The Loaded Truth Behind Mom Wine Culture and the False Need to Wine Down with Celeste Yvonne #345: To Drink Or Not To Drink? Why Drinking as We Get Older Is Hard on Our Hormones #712: Why Lifestyle Medicine Is Mitochondrial Medicine (And What That Means for Your Energy, Metabolism & Longevity)

Ever feel a quiet kind of panic creeping up in midlife? The feeling that even though you’re showing up for everything, you feel empty inside?  This episode is a powerful reminder that you don’t have to live with this feeling forever… better yet, it’s absolutely reversible.  We’re diving into how lifestyle medicine and cellular energy (hello, mitochondria!) are at the epicenter of how you feel, think, and show up every day.  You’ll learn why those mood shifts, energy crashes, and feelings of overwhelm actually make sense — and more importantly, what to do about them.  Then, we’re going back to the basics as I’m sharing my top 10 foundational lifestyle adjustments to help you rebuild energy and vitality without extreme plans or pressure.  If you’re ready to feel like yourself again, start with one simple change and press play — your midlife health reset begins here!  IN THIS EPISODE Navigating the drastic changes in ALL aspects during midlife  What those little powerhouses– the mitochondria– really do How to track metabolic trends before they spiral out of control The benefits of efficient cycle and symptom tracking  The best ways to stabilize your blood glucose and insulin levels  Why strength training, movement, and protein are a MUST  Choosing the RIGHT supplements to support your body  Considering HRT as a beneficial support in midlife  Why your sleep matters more than you think  How to get started with these simple lifestyle must-dos  QUOTES “Lifestyle medicine is mitochondrial medicine. The reason why lifestyle habits like nutrition, sleep, movement, circadian rhythm optimization, even stress support actually work is because they nourish your mitochondria and they optimize your cellular energy.” “What is one simple lifestyle shift you can make that will help your mitochondria produce more energy tomorrow? Choose one. Commit to it for 7 to 10 days and watch what shifts.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Sign up for my 7-day Hormone & Metabolism Jumpstart https://drmariza.com/jumpstart Order my newest book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Grab Mitopure to support your mitochondria: https://timeline.com/ENERGIZED Get the Perimenopause Survival ebook here: https://drmariza.com/perisurvival RELATED EPISODES  710: Kickstart Your New Year: How One Simple Habit Can Transform Your Life, Health, and Mindset 704: Hormone Intelligence for Women in Midlife: How to Thrive Through Perimenopause with Dr. Aviva Romm 690: The Perimenopause Revolution: Why midlife isn’t the end — it’s the beginning of your most energized, powerful, and vibrant self 686: Your Second Puberty Explained: What’s Really Happening to Your Body in Perimenopause

Believe it or not, but there is as much cardiovascular risk associated with smoking as there is with the drop in estrogen in perimenopause and menopause.  But don’t worry–  I’ve brought the hilarious, talented, and brilliant Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj onto the podcast to dive into why midlife is a uniquely important—and often overlooked—window for cardiometabolic health, and what you can do about it.  In this entertaining episode, Dr. Bhojraj breaks down why the drop in estrogen matters just as much as traditional risk factors and why so many women’s concerns are missed in conventional care.  We also reframe hormone therapy not as symptom management, but as a powerful tool for optimization, longevity, and long-term heart and metabolic health.  With humor and clarity, this conversation reminds you that you don’t need to overhaul your entire life —small, strategic changes truly add up. Tune in here to learn how to simply and efficiently boost your health, starting with your heart!  Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj Dr. Sanjay Bhojraj is an interventional cardiologist and Institute for Functional Medicine–certified physician who bridges conventional cardiology with functional and lifestyle medicine. He spent 20 years treating disease with procedures and medications, but then shifted his focus toward uncovering root causes to help patients reverse chronic cardiometabolic conditions through food, sleep, stress optimization, and lifestyle change. Dr. Sanjay is the founder of the Well12 program and host of The Curious Cardiologist podcast, where he explores the science of longevity, inflammation, and human performance. His passion is helping people reclaim their health through simple, lasting changes. IN THIS EPISODE How Dr. Bhojraj moved into functional cardiac medicine  What age to start paying closer attention to cardiovascular health Advocating for yourself and what labs you should be asking for  Why taking care of your cardiovascular health is crucial during midlife hormonal changes  Looking at your metabolic health before starting HRT  Metabolic markers to pay attention to in midlife  Non-negotiable small tweaks to improve your heart health  How bringing joy to your life can be the best tool for your health  QUOTES “We need to talk about sleep, we need to have an intelligent discussion about diet and what that means. And we need to think about hormones too, because hormonal health is so central to cardiovascular health, and that is just not something that we talk about in cardiovascular training.” “It's like contributing to your 401k in your twenties, right? Like $200 doesn't seem like a lot, but when you're 65, you're now retiring a millionaire– depending on how well you invest, because you made those small, little, little habits, those little changes. So that decade of the forties becomes super important, particularly because in women, that's when perimenopause starts to happen, right?” “The point is that I think first of all, start with something that you can do, right? Again, it's 1% shifts. You don't have to change a thousand different things.”RESOURCES MENTIONED Order my new book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Check out Dr. Sanjay’s Signature Well12 Metabolic Program HERE! https://lagunamedicine.com/well12 Dr. Sanjay’s Website Dr. Sanjay on Instagram Dr. Sanjay’s Podcast: The Curious Cardioloist Dr. Sanjay on Facebook RELATED EPISODES  704: Hormone Intelligence for Women in Midlife: How to Thrive Through Perimenopause with Dr. Aviva Romm 690: The Perimenopause Revolution: Why midlife isn’t the end — it’s the beginning of your most energized, powerful, and vibrant self 678: How to Turn Perimenopause Into Your Metabolic Window of Opportunity + My Simple Daily Protocol To Feel Amazing #451: Why Do Women Have a Higher Cardiometabolic Mortality Rate Than Men? With Dr. Sara Gottfried

You don’t have to overhaul your life with your New Year's Resolutions. Small habits, when done consistently, can completely change your health trajectory– changing your LIFE.  In today’s episode, I’m flipping the script on midlife health—because you don’t need another restrictive plan or pressure-filled protocol to feel better.  Instead, I’m sharing my top five simple yet powerful habits that can truly shift your energy, metabolism, and mindset in midlife.  These are realistic, supportive practices designed to meet you where you are, not demand more discipline or perfection.  You’ll also hear how you can build real momentum alongside thousands of women in my FREE 7-day Metabolism & Hormone Jumpstart Challenge. In just one week, you can reignite your energy, reset your metabolism, and start feeling like yourself again—without willpower battles or crash diets.  Tune in here for a science-backed, supportive reset that actually works! IN THIS EPISODE Overcoming the post-holiday season fatigue and burnout  The reset you need to start the new year right Looking at your own habits that make your life run smoother My top 5 go-to habits to boost energy and metabolism  How consistency with even ONE of these habits is life-changing All about my FREE 7-day Hormone & Metabolism Jumpstart  QUOTES “The holiday season– it's a lot. It's a lot on our nervous system. It's a lot on our metabolism, it's a lot on our hormones. And [all the] while midlife, perimenopause, and menopause are playing behind the scenes.” “Here's the thing, you don't need to do all the things, but choose one habit. And committing to it can change your entire health trajectory, and that changes your life.” “You need a jumpstart that honors your body and nervous system right now. This isn't about perfection; it's about momentum. This isn't about restriction, it's about support. It's about wins. So let's do this together.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Sign up for my 7-day Hormone & Metabolism Jumpstart https://drmariza.com/jumpstart Order my newest book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ RELATED EPISODES  707: Before You Plan 2026, Ask Yourself This: 12 End-of-Year Questions to Realign Your Energy, Goals, and Hormones 704: Hormone Intelligence for Women in Midlife: How to Thrive Through Perimenopause with Dr. Aviva Romm 690: The Perimenopause Revolution: Why midlife isn’t the end — it’s the beginning of your most energized, powerful, and vibrant self 686: Your Second Puberty Explained: What’s Really Happening to Your Body in Perimenopause

Ready for a judgment-free conversation about GLP-1 agonists and what they can truly offer midlife women seeking better energy, metabolic health, and longevity? In this podcast, hormone and nutrition expert Ashley Koff joins me to break down the noise and misinformation around GLP-1s, reframing them as one possible tool—not a magic fix—within a much bigger picture of whole-body health.  Ashley shares how to advocate for yourself as an empowered patient, ask better questions, and partner more effectively with your healthcare provider with confidence.  We also dive into why nutrition and lifestyle are essential foundations for optimizing hormones, whether you’re using GLP-1s or not. Most importantly, we emphasize listening to your body and making informed choices that support long-term vitality.  If you’re curious about GLP-1s and want clear, compassionate guidance for midlife health, this is a must-listen episode! Ashley Koff, RD Ashley Koff is the founder of The Better Nutrition Program (BNP), the Nutrition Course Director for UC Irvine’s Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute's Integrative and Functional Medicine Fellowship, and a faculty member at the Integrative and Functional Nutrition Academy (IFNA), where she teaches “An Integrative and Functional Nutrition Approach to Obesity and Weight Management.” She’s also the author of the upcoming book, Your Best Shot. As a practitioner for over 25 years, Koff has been recognized as one of CNN’s Top 100 Health Makers, featured in InStyle as “Hollywood’s Leading Dietitian,” and selected as Westin’s Global Nutrition Ambassador. RESOURCES MENTIONED Order my new book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Ashley’s Book: Your Best Shot GLP-1 Optimization Assessment The Better Nutrition Program Website Ashley on Instagram IN THIS EPISODE Ashley’s personal experience with GLP-1s and their success   Addressing the judgment around GLP-1 usage in society  Overcoming the hurdles regarding accessibility to GLP-1s  Looking at trends in current women’s health and in children  How to reset certain hormones naturally for optimal performance  How to cut through the conflicting nutrition advice in the media  Why hormones like GLP-1s need to be a part of the midlife conversation  About Ashley’s new book and The Better Nutrition Program! QUOTES “That means your weight-health hormones are going to be impacted. And let's look at this whole thing systemically– I think there's a lot of ways we can go in this, but one of the things I'm very concerned about is the way that people are being judged.” “I think in that way the biggest answer I would have for you is for us to stop blaming the medication for working the way the medication is supposed to work. And this is where I think the physician and dietician collaboration, comes in and says, actually, these are all the things that we need to experiment with or we need to explore, investigate if this is what your outcome is on the medication.” RELATED EPISODES #621: The Truth About Metabolic Health, Hormones and GLP-1s with Tyna Moore #647: Hormone Optimization Therapy (HOT) Isn’t Your Mom’s HRT + It’s One Of The Best Strategies For Longevity with Dr. Amy Killen #605: Breaking the HRT Confusion: The Truth Behind Hormone Replacement Therapy for Perimenopausal Women with Karen Martel 656: The Dangers Of NOT Prescribing Bioidentical HRT + Migraines, Testosterone and Mitigating Inflammation with Dr. Louise Newson

Perimenopause and menopause can feel like a time of massive change.  Because it IS! And with physical and hormonal changes comes the need for a big upgrade to your exercise and wellness routine. That’s why I’ve brought expert Brian Keane onto the podcast to offer insight on optimally evolving your healthy habits to move with you through this wonderful season of life.  We dive into why restriction or an all-or-nothing approach to exercise can completely backfire in perimenopause and what to focus on instead for strength, energy, and longevity.  Brian also shares the most overlooked opportunities for building sustainable, effective wellness habits in midlife.  If you’re ready to lean into this powerful season of life with confidence (and less frustration), this episode is for you! Tune in now.  Brian Keane Brian Keane is a 3x bestselling author, certified strength and conditioning coach, sports nutritionist, and the host of the top podcast, The Brian Keane Podcast. Brian has been a featured speaker at prominent wellness events, and was a Keynote speaker at Google HQ for their 2018 wellness event. Outside of business, he’s completed some of the world’s most grueling feats, including six consecutive marathons through the Sahara Desert, a 230km trek through the Arctic, and multiple ultra-marathons—highlighted by a 100-mile race through the desert in Nevada. IN THIS EPISODE Why your nutrition and exercise routine must change in midlife  Adjusting your mindset for optimal strength and resilience  Top strength and exercise recommendations for midlife women  The benefit of consistency in fitness vs. an all-or-nothing approach  Some of the most overlooked opportunities for healthier fitness and nutrition habits in midlife Non-negotiable force-multipliers for a healthier you Why sleep is the best thing you can do for your health Debunking certain health and wellness myths seen in the media  QUOTES“You don't judge a tree for its leaves falling off in autumn– don't judge yourself for moving into a new season of life.” “We can sometimes fail to see that the small things make a massive difference, whereas in other areas of life, you will do small things with your partner, with your son, with your daughter, and you know that they compound– putting them to bed, reading the story, having that time, you know that these small little things add up to building up that relationship and making it stronger. But with exercise, it's very easy to take an all or nothing approach.” RESOURCES MENTIONED My Newest Book: The Perimenopause Revolution  https://peri-revolution.com/ Connect with Brian HERE! Brian on TikTok Brian on Instagram Brian on Facebook Brian Keane Fitness on YouTube  RELATED EPISODES  #546: How to Stay Lean, Energized and Strong By Working With Your Physiology, Not Against It with Dr. Stacy Sims 684: The 5-Minute Workout That Boosts Metabolism, Energy & Reverses Aging with Ulrich Dempfle 657: How to Prevent, Manage, and Even Reverse Osteoporosis Naturally: The Hormone-Bone Health Connection Every Woman Needs to Know with Dr. Doug Lucas  #616: Jump-Start Your Metabolism and Put Your Body into a Thermogenic Fat-Burning State with Stu Schaefer