Above the Clouds: Finding Calm After 40

Dr. Simone records from a crisp autumn forest in Zurich to explore how small daily habits—like getting morning daylight, taking deep breaths, and going for a walk—can boost metabolism, mood, and sleep. She highlights the value of proper resets such as yoga or massage to quiet the ‘‘mind buzz,’’ especially for women in perimenopause, and encourages gratitude and simple self-care to improve overall well-being.

Dr. Simone explores perimenopause—the underrecognized transition many women face in their 30s–40s—covering symptoms like anxiety, brain fog, sleep problems, and low energy, plus common thyroid issues. She discusses practical approaches including nutrition, exercise, circadian-aware eating, supplements (calcium, vitamin D), small-dose hormone therapy and evening progesterone to improve sleep, and the importance of early awareness, support, and shared experiences.

Dr. Simone uses travel "above the clouds" as a moment for reflection after turning 40 and becoming a late mother, describing life as a roller coaster of responsibilities, shifting identity, and perimenopausal changes. She discusses juggling motherhood, career, relationships, and expectations while exploring ways to reclaim old dreams, practice self-care, and find peace of mind with support from loved ones and new priorities.

Hello from up north — getting my hair done in Copenhagen before a long trip to Mexico as a couple. I'm excited but a bit mixed about leaving our four-year-old son with his grandparents; couple time is necessary for working parents, but we'll miss him. The trip includes a high-altitude, cool and rainy Mexican city and the warm Pacific coast, followed by a stop in Stockholm at the end of September. I'm trying to pack versatile, minimal items rather than cluttering up with things I don’t need, and I’ll share my packing in the next few days.

Dr. Simone explores how to stop absorbing other people’s emotional dump, build healthy boundaries, and live with integrity instead of being run over by others. She shares a personal approach — including a nourishing lunchtime yoga practice — to recharge, set limits, and support yourself while still caring for others.

Dr. Simone shares a reflective episode from Copenhagen about enjoying family time while navigating persistent mom guilt. She talks candidly about the tension that can arise with partners, the relief of moments when someone else cares for you (like a hairdresser appointment), and the struggle many mothers face to carve out personal time. She encourages mothers to be bold about claiming me-time, explaining that self-care is essential to restore energy and be able to give to others. Practical, empathetic, and calming, the episode centers on finding balance and permission to prioritize yourself.

Dr. Simone explores the identity shift high-performing women face after becoming mothers: the emotional strain of returning to work, the challenge of being mentally present, and how success and productivity must be redefined during early parenthood. She shares personal reflections and practical ideas—like taking a breather between work and pickup and setting priorities—to help ambitious parents take small steps toward a more balanced, fulfilling life.

Dr. Simone returns to Zurich after a women’s empowerment weekend in St. Moritz and shares her experience solo‑traveling with a nine‑month‑old—what worked, what was tiring, and how the trip ultimately went well. She challenges discouraging, old‑fashioned advice aimed at mothers, urging women to try travel their way, support each other, and build self‑esteem through positive reinforcement and bold choices. @drschwank @unesurcent

Dr. Simone explores unexplained infertility—when thorough testing shows no clear cause—discussing how common it can be and available treatments such as fertility medications, IUI, and IVF. She also covers practical steps couples can take: lifestyle changes (quit smoking, reduce alcohol and caffeine, maintain a healthy weight, balanced diet, daily exercise), stress reduction, and the importance of seeking support and treatment options at Optimal Performance Zurich. @drschwank @unesurcent

Dr. Simone explores how narcissistic personalities often gravitate to leadership roles and the ways their behavior can feel like psychological warfare in the workplace. This episode outlines common manipulative patterns and the impact on employees' emotional well-being. Practical guidance is offered on protecting your nervous system: keep a low profile, distance yourself when possible, document escalations, and seek HR or external support when needed. Surround yourself with supportive people and prioritize self-care to navigate toxic leadership.   @drschwank @unesurcent