The Shift with Sonia Azad

Fertility preservation is changing how we think about family planning.  In this episode, Sonia Azad sits down with fertility specialist Dr. Katie Doody to explore the evolving world of reproductive health and the options available today. We break down egg freezing vs embryo freezing— what it means, how it works, and what to consider. You'll learn: • The difference between egg freezing and embryo freezing • How age impacts fertility and outcomes • What the process actually looks like (timeline, injections, retrieval) • Common myths about fertility preservation • How technology is changing success rates • What to consider when planning for your future family Subscribe for more conversations on health, wellness, and life transitions. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 01:00 Meet Dr. Katie Doody 02:30 Fertility vs Infertility (Why language matters) 04:00 Who seeks fertility treatment today? 06:00 Age, health, and fertility factors 09:20 How fertility technology has evolved 11:50 Egg Freezing vs Embryo Freezing 14:20 What the egg freezing process is really like 17:30 How many eggs do you actually need? 20:00 Success rates explained 21:30 Choosing between eggs vs embryos 24:00 GLP-1s, weight, and fertility 28:00 Future of fertility technology 30:00 Common myths about egg freezing 32:00 Different paths to building a family 34:00 Final thoughts Key Takeaways: Fertility preservation is not a guarantee, but it increases options Egg freezing and embryo freezing follow the same initial process Age impacts egg quality more than quantity You don't need a partner to start planning your future family Technology is improving success rates, but expectations matter There are multiple paths to building a family 

Fertility is one of the most misunderstood areas of women's health, and most people don't realize how early planning actually matters. In this episode of The Shift podcast, Sonia Azad sits down with reproductive endocrinology and infertility specialist Dr. Kimberly Yau to break down everything you need to know about fertility, egg freezing, IVF, AMH testing, PCOS, irregular periods, and how age impacts reproductive health. You'll learn: • When to see a fertility specialist • What AMH actually means (and what it doesn't) • The truth about egg freezing success rates • Fertility in your 20s, 30s, and 40s • IVF, embryos, and reproductive technology advances • Male factor infertility and sperm health • Fertility preservation for medical reasons (like cancer treatment) This conversation is designed to give you clarity so you can make informed decisions about your reproductive future. 📌 Subscribe for more conversations on health, wellness, and navigating life transitions.   CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction 01:00 Meet Dr. Kimberly Yao — her 15-year journey to fertility medicine 02:30 The state of women's health today 03:00 Who sees a fertility specialist — and why 04:30 Sonia's personal experience freezing her eggs at 35 05:15 When is the right time to see a fertility specialist? 06:30 Fertility by decade: your 20s 07:45 How to find the right fertility clinic (look for SART) 08:45 Fertility by decade: your 30s 09:45 Why egg quality declines — the science explained 11:15 What AMH is and what it actually tells you 13:30 AMH ranges and what they mean 14:15 Fertility by decade: your 40s 15:30 What "60% abnormal eggs" actually means 16:30 Aneuploidy, chromosomes, and miscarriage risk explained 17:30 Fertility in your 50s — and the role of frozen eggs 18:45 How much does the male partner contribute? 19:45 What causes male factor infertility? 20:15 What a male fertility workup looks like 21:00 How much has egg freezing technology changed in 10 years? 22:00 Vitrification — the flash-freezing breakthrough 23:00 The most common questions Dr. Yao gets asked 24:10 The full fertility workup: what to expect 25:30 Tracking ovulation and irregular periods 27:00 When irregular periods become a red flag 28:00 Fertility preservation before chemotherapy 29:30 Cancer, fertility access, and insurance coverage 30:45 Sperm freezing — an undertalked option 31:00 Is there anything you can do to naturally preserve fertility? 32:00 Dr. Yao's message to anyone who's been putting this off 33:00 You can still get pregnant with one ovary or one fallopian tube 33:40 How to connect with Care Fertility 34:10 Closing thoughts   KEY TAKEAWAYS: You don't need a fertility problem to see a fertility specialist The best time to go is before you need to Age 35 is when egg quality begins an exponential decline; the ideal time to freeze eggs is before that AMH tells you how many eggs you have remaining, but it does not predict your future fertility Up to 50% of infertility cases involve a male factor; it is never just a "woman's issue" Vitrification (flash freezing) has dramatically improved egg survival rates after thawing Freezing your eggs is not a guarantee, but it expands your options If your period has been irregular for 3 or more months in a row, get evaluated Cancer patients should ask about fertility preservation before starting treatment — coverage is expanding in many states You can still conceive naturally with one ovary or one fallopian tube Knowledge is the first step — being pre-contemplative puts you ahead  

Would you get a hair transplant in Turkey? Istanbul is now among global leaders in health tourism. In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, we explore the reasons behind the popular shift toward medical care outside of the U.S. through the experience of Minnesota native Devin Buckley (yes, from Love is Blind Season 8). Devin is documenting his hair transplant journey with Vera Clinic. Related Links:  https://www.sonia-azad.com/blog/medic... https://www.veraclinic.net   Show Notes: You can follow Devin's journey on his social channels (@DevBuck3) IG (@DevBuck03) TikTok

Whether you're into ice baths or cold plunge, cold therapy is having a moment! If you're curious but not sure of the benefits, this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad addresses those questions. Sonia chats with Thomas Seager, PhD, Associate Professor for Arizona State University's School of Sustainable Engineering. The CEO of Morozko Forge candidly shares the reasons behind his personal shift toward wellness and his research related to cold therapy. He distinguishes the difference between ice baths and cold plunges and discusses new data around how cold therapy can be used to increase testosterone levels. Dr. Seager will highlight findings at CryoCon in Dallas April 3-5.   Related Links:  https://cryoconvention.com https://www.morozkoforge.com      

How long does it take to create a new habit? Is it possible to rewire your brain at any age? How can I get a full, restful night's sleep without my mind keeping me wide awake? In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, we chat with Dr. Patrick Porter, founder of BrainTap Technologies. His mission is to better a billion brains around the world... and the company is well on its way! Learn how this science-driven technology can hack your brain into focusing, thinking and sleeping better.   Dr. Porter will be speaking at CryoCon in Dallas, Texas on April 3-5! Related Links: https://cryoconvention.com https://braintap.com/?afmc=4y9&utm_ca...  

What is biohacking? It's a term you're seeing all over the Internet these days. How does biohacking help you to be healthier and live longer? In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, we chat with the Father of Biohacking (yes, the man who invented the definition), Dave Asprey. The entrepreneur, 4x NY Times bestselling author and founder of Bulletproof Coffee shares more about his new book, Heavily Meditated, plus upcoming conferences in Texas where you can hear more about the latest in longevity research. Related Links: https://cryoconvention.com https://daveasprey.com  

In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, we explore the essential landscape of recovery for those looking to up their fitness and longevity game. A world class athlete, and President of Upgrade Labs, Griff Long shares more about: biohacking at Upgrade Labs, how data and wearable tech have helped him to embrace recovery days and his plans to speak at the upcoming CryoCon Convention in Dallas April 3-5.  Related Links: https://upgradelabs.com https://cryoconvention.com   

In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, we examine the shift in women's fitness with Jazzercise CEO Shanna Missett Nelson. Shanna's mom, Judi Sheppard-Missett started Jazzercise 55 years ago and still teaches today. We discuss how they've shifted to maintain a relevant and growing brand through the decades, plus why Jazzercise is such a popular and effective form of exercise for women of all ages and stages of life.  Jazzercise classes emphasize these key components:  Getting up and down off the floor; HIIT training for cardiovascular health and nervous system resilience;  Multi-directional jump training for bone density; and  Strength training

This episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad is all about best skincare practices as we age. What are the most effective ways to address changes in the skin including: texture, color, adult acne, and sun spots? Sonia sits down with a board certified dermatologist to distinguish the "must-try" products and technology -- from the gimmicks that are a waste of money.

In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, we discuss the unusual & often overlooked warning signs of stroke. This episode is personal: Sonia shares her own oversight and learns information that she didn't know when this happened in her family. Dr. Claudia Perez explains more about prevention, the likelihood of a "mini stroke" serving as a precursor to something bigger, and why experts now refer to these medical emergencies as "TIAs" (Transient Ischemic Attacks).

In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, we start a conversation about Maternal Mental Health. According to the CDC, 1 in 8 women experiences postpartum depression; 50% of them are untreated. Maternal Mental Health conditions like depression, anxiety, and substance abuse disorder affect 1 in 5 women, and are referred to by the American Hospital Association as the most prominent complications of pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum.   Sonia sits down with Megan Graves, LCSW-S, from Texas Health Behavioral Health to discuss the reality of this major life shift into motherhood, and how we can better support our friends as they navigate their new roles as mom. Additional Resources: National Maternal Mental Health Hotline: 1-833-TLC-MAMA (1-833-852-6262) is a free and confidential service that provides access to trained counselors and resources 24/7 in a multitude of languages. Texas Health Resources provides free behavioral health assessments. You can schedule an assessment online at www.texashealth.org, or by calling (682) 626-8719.

What's the secret to a long and healthy life? In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, we get the answer from the man who invented aerobics, Dr. Kenneth Cooper. Now age 93, Dr. Cooper sits down with Sonia to reflect on his 40 year running career, the resurgence of interest in physical fitness, and how he shifted from a 29-year old with hypertension and pre-diabetes to a two-time Boston marathon finisher. Dr. Cooper is passionate about getting preventive medicine into core curriculums in medical schools. He has two documentaries on the power of prevention available to watch at: www.cooperaerobics.com/documentary. 

Where does our relationship with money come from? What does a healthy relationship with money look like? Is it possible to live your "dream life" without winning the lottery? In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, Texas-based financial consultant Mary Lyons (aka The Wealth Woman) answers these questions and offers creative advice for financial planning no matter how much money you currently have or earn. 

In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, we take a deep dive into better brain health. What are simple, effective ways you can begin to feel more positive? What is the number one habit to focus on for enhanced overall cognitive function? What if you're in a season of life that feels endlessly mundane, depressing or earth shattering? Cognitive Neuroscientist Dr. Julie Fratantoni from UT Dallas' Center for Brain Health, sits down with Sonia to deliver solutions. 

In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, we navigate relationships with 'others'-- from children to colleagues. Dr. Kate Mangona, pediatric radiologist and relationship coach explores emotion-based response, setting boundaries, and mindset shift when you feel anger entering the arena. 

In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, we explore the shifts into and out of marriage. Sonia chats with Dallas-based psychotherapist Dr. Von Eaglin about effective communication, rebuilding trust and the questions couples should consider before embarking on a lifelong journey together.  

In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, we ride the roller coaster of modern day dating-- the ups and the downs. Sonia chats with Alisa Woodall, licensed therapist and self-discovery guide who emphasizes that dating is introspective work and that self-awareness is the key to successful partnership. 

In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, we explore our relationship to self and Source. This is the introduction to a series on navigating challenging relationships with others. But, as with most things, we begin with ourselves. Sonia's interview with the President of a faith-based counseling group touches on how spirituality and faith play a role in exhibiting and extending: kindness, compassion and perspectives.

In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, we discuss intimate health for men and women who have been assessed for pelvic floor muscle strength and are unable to get any contraction with verbal or manual cues. For people who experience incontinence, there is FDA cleared technology to help.

In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, Nurse Practitioner Briston McClendon talks about weight gain associated with aging-- and options for management, medicine, testing, & technology to safely support weight loss and overall well-being.

In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, Sonia speaks with cosmetic nurse Heather Galliani, RN about uses of Botox and derma-filler. They touch on: why people in their 20s are starting to use them, proper placement on the face and beyond, potential risks and questions to ask before choosing a nurse or physician injector. This episode is part of a series on graceful aging.

In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, Renew Beauty founder Louise Proulx discusses aging gracefully with skincare products and technology. Whether you're in your 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s or beyond, check out this conversation to learn more about preventive and corrective ways to keep your skin healthy and youthful.

In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, Sonia speaks with Bijou Finney, a psychedelic facilitator about micro-dosing mushrooms. Finney, a holistic guide and micro-dosing coach is affectionately known as 'Mushroom Mamacita." She educates professionals on how to use plant medicine through therapeutic coaching. This discussion is part of a series focusing on the widespread shift toward alternative healing methods and modalities

In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, Sonia sits down with Yvonne Futch to discuss a Japanese healing modality called Reiki. It's grown in popularity in the western world for decades, and now more people are moving toward practices like this for relief, relaxation and energetic shifts in order to support overall well-being. 

In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, Sonia sits down with Colt Power, Co-Founder of Power Biopharms. They discuss: the differences between CBD, hemp and THC, the risk profile, science and benefits of CBD & various ways it can be used and ingested.

In this episode of The Shift, Sonia chats with sound therapist Sarah Shelby about the use of vibration as a healing modality. This is the first in a series of episodes highlighting a shift toward alternative forms of healing -- in concert with or in some cases place of traditional western medicine.

In Episode 12 of The Shift with Sonia Azad, Sonia chats with Jennifer Austin from Visiting Nurse Association (VNA) about the resources available to lower income seniors through Meals on Wheels and other services. They also discuss and clarify options for hospice care at end-of-life.

In this Episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, Portia Cantrell speaks candidly about the shift into elder years as a person in the LGBTQ+ community. She discusses the challenges, fears faced, and support needed for this group in particular. Silver Pride Project addresses the specific needs of the aging generation in the LGBTQ community

Did you know: Texas has what's called a Silver Haired Legislature. In this Episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, Sonia sits down with one member, Dan Roberts, to discuss resources available to seniors. They touch on the importance of personal accountability when it comes to healthy aging because of a lack of robust funding for seniors at the state and federal levels. 

In this new series on The Shift with Sonia Azad, Sonia explores healthy aging. Missy Buchanan, author and speaker on faithful aging discusses her book, Voices of Aging -- a series of conversations between adult children and aging parents. Her book and expertise in intergenerational connectedness offer compassion, empathy and perspective for anyone experiencing or navigating the shift into late life. 

In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, we round out our series on Women's Health with Dr. Julian Escobar. His successful work in fertility has earned him the title of "the baby maker." Dr. Escobar shares his personal journey to fatherhood, expands on PCOS, and advancements in technology that are helping families to achieve the dream of parenthood. 

Our series on Women's Health continues with Dr. Roxanne Pero, functional and lifestyle medicine specialist. In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, Dr. Pero speaks candidly about her personal journey to motherhood and shares more about the combination of holistic and modern medicine when it comes to helping patients. 

In this episode of The Shift with Sonia Azad, Sonia chats about sexual wellness with founder of the Rosy app Dr. Lyndsey Harper, Board Certified Ob/Gyn and women's sexual health expert. They discuss everything from sexual pain, to low libido and how shifts in stress and relationship status can impact your desire for intimacy. 

We mark International Women's Day by beginning a series on Women's Health. In this first episode of our second series, Sonia chats with OBGYN and women's health expert Dr. Jessica Shepherd about the shift into and out of menopause. They discuss the symptoms of perimenopause and answer audience questions. 

In Episode 4 of The Shift with Sonia Azad, former Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader Tia Williams describes her internal dialogue as a "curvy" woman of color, often comparing herself to others as a young striving woman, and the pressure to always be 'on' based on her role and responsibilities. 

In Episode 3 of The Shift with Sonia Azad, former American Ninja Warrior Karsten Williams speaks openly about performing under pressure, vulnerability, and teaching children how to move through failure after experiencing a public separation in his professional life. 

In Episode 2 of The Shift with Sonia Azad, former NBA player Eduardo Nájera talks candidly about his experience with depression following physical health challenges toward the end of his professional basketball career, the shifts he faced as a Mexican immigrant in America, and navigating relationships with his children through marriage and divorce.

In Episode 1 of The Shift with Sonia Azad, former NFL defensive tackle Tony Casillas shares personal accounts of anxiety, navigating the emotional tolls of high performance athletics, the shift into becoming an empty nester once his adult children went off to college and the transitions through his wife's breast cancer diagnosis and healing journey.