What Really Works: Practical Health Habits for Midlife Women

Feeling exhausted by health trends and resolutions that never stick? Midlife is full of conflicting advice, especially about women's health, but clarity feels better than pressure. If you're ready to move beyond quick fixes and confusion, this episode focuses on a grounding core question: What actually makes you feel better in your body, and what drains you more than it helps? Discover a calmer, more realistic approach to navigating health and energy in midlife. As women aged 40–65, we're often told to do more, push harder, and chase the newest wellness fads. Seasoned journalist Natalie Tysdal invites you to step off the treadmill of reinventing yourself and start listening to what truly matters. Instead of recapping every trend, this episode breaks down the health essentials—routine, rest, nourishment, and stress—into simple, relatable insights. Natalie's experience in morning news, combined with hard-won wisdom from her own health journey, ensures that busy women feel seen and supported, without feeling overwhelmed. You'll learn: • Why listening to your own body signals is essential—beyond the latest trend • How protecting sleep, energy, and peace can help you reclaim your midlife health • The surprising power of doing less, setting boundaries, and saying 'no' comfortably • How to separate nourishment from guilt and prioritize sustainable routines • Why comparison and extreme wellness promises don't serve you—clarity over pressure  • The real questions to ask yourself before setting new goals this year Midlife women deserve a steady, intelligent approach to health, one that validates complex experiences and invites self-trust. This episode delivers grounded guidance you can return to, focusing on what truly supports your well-being. Whether you're navigating changing hormones, shifting priorities, or constant demands, you'll walk away feeling more clear, less alone, and ready to protect what matters most. https://www.natalietysdal.com https://www.instagram.com/ntysdal https://www.tiktok.com/@ntysdal https://www.facebook.com/NatalieTysdal 🎙️ Listen now and take the next step toward feeling your best. 📅 New episodes drop every Monday! Subscribe for weekly conversations that support women in midlife. DISCLAIMER: Natalie Tysdal is a health journalist, not a licensed medical professional. The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Many women are taught to view their periods as a nuisance—until midlife brings questions about hormones, bone health, and long-term wellbeing. What if losing your menstrual cycle is more than an inconvenience, and could hold keys to understanding your body's bigger story? Explore how understanding your period and hormones can help you make empowered choices for your health in midlife, with trusted insights from hormone health advocate Dani Sheriff. Reproductive health isn't just for young women or those trying to get pregnant—midlife presents its own set of challenges, confusion, and often frustrating medical experiences for women navigating irregular periods, missed cycles, and hormone shifts. Dani Sheriff shares her lived expertise as a former competitive athlete who lost her period for seven years and how reclaiming it was tied to her health, sense of self, and even her career. Natalie and Dani unpack the link between hormones, bone health, and brain function, and discuss why so many women—and their healthcare providers—overlook critical signals from the body. • Understand why period loss and irregular cycles matter for bone, heart, and brain health in midlife • Learn the warning signs of hypothalamic amenorrhea and why it's often missed • Find out why many women are misdiagnosed—and how to advocate for the right questions with your provider • Explore how nutrition, exercise, and self-compassion can help restore hormonal balance • Identify the emotional side of recovery and why community support makes a real difference Midlife women deserve clear, caring information about hormones—without fear or stigma. This episode offers validation and actionable clarity, whether you're experiencing irregular periods yourself or supporting a daughter, friend, or client through similar changes. Listen for grounded strategies and honest discussion on a topic that's still too often overlooked, so you can feel more confident and connected to your own health. Natalie's Website Dani's Website https://www.instagram.com/ntysdal https://www.tiktok.com/@ntysdal https://www.facebook.com/NatalieTysdal 🎙️ Listen now and take the next step toward feeling your best. 📅 New episodes drop every Monday—subscribe for weekly conversations that support women in midlife. DISCLAIMER: Natalie Tysdal is a health journalist, not a licensed medical professional. The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Uncomplicating Wellness: How to Cut Through Health Overwhelm Ever feel like nutrition and wellness are just too complicated to figure out? In this episode, Natalie sits down with health entrepreneur, coach, and podcast host Jenn Trapeck, whose new book "Uncomplicating Wellness" is designed to help you break free from overwhelm and learn what really matters when it comes to feeling good. Natalie and Jenn dig into the big myths and micro-trends that make healthy living confusing—like ice baths, protein crazes, and supplement marketing. You'll hear practical strategies for evaluating nutrition news, spotting what truly works for your body, and building daily habits that create real momentum. Jen reveals the six "Bio Stack" categories to focus on, the sneaky ways small changes compound over time, and why tuning into your own body's signals (poop, sex, and supplements included!) is the ultimate health hack. Whether you've bounced from diet to diet or just want a grounded approach to wellness, this episode is packed with actionable insight to help you create sustainable change—without perfection or overwhelm. Visit Natalie's website for full Podcast links and resources: Disclaimer: Natalie Tysdal is a health journalist, not a licensed medical professional. This podcast is informational only, not medical advice.  

Perimenopause Demystified: Thriving Through Life's Transitions Are you navigating the unexpected changes of perimenopause and wondering what's normal, what helps, and how to truly feel your best during this pivotal time? In this episode, Dr. Aleksandra Gajer joins Speaker A to break down the myths, challenges, and science-backed solutions every woman deserves to know. Together, they discuss everything from shifting hormones, sleep troubles, and weight changes, to the role of nutrition, exercise, and even innovative new tools like GLP-1 medications. You'll discover why "eat less, move more" is outdated advice and how strength training, quality protein, and sleep hygiene are crucial for building a resilient body and mind at every age. Dr. Gajer also shares practical strategies for managing inflammation, stress, and the emotional rollercoaster of hormonal transitions—offering a message of empowerment, self-compassion, and hope for every listener. Guest Links: Dr. Aleksandra Gajer Website: https://thegajerpractice.com Instagram: @thegajerpractice 🎙️ Listen now—and start changing the beliefs that hold you back. 📅 New episodes drop every Monday. Subscribe for weekly wellness wisdom. Follow Natalie: Website: https://natalietysdal.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/ntysdal TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@ntysdal Facebook: https://facebook.com/natalietysdal Disclaimer: Natalie Tysdal is a health journalist, not a licensed medical professional. This podcast is informational only, not medical advice.

How to Heal Fertility by Starting With Gut Health What if fertility struggles aren't just about age, hormones, or luck—but about the foundation of your health: your gut? In this episode, I sit down with fertility coach and podcast host Monica Cox to break down the often-missed connection between gut health, inflammation, and reproductive challenges. Monica shares her eight-year journey through IVF, unexplained infertility, miscarriage, and the moment everything shifted: addressing food intolerances, calming her immune system, and rebuilding her health from the inside out. You'll learn why conventional fertility advice skips critical root-cause issues, how gut and cellular health affect egg quality and inflammation, and why intuition is a powerful tool in the healing process. If you're navigating fertility struggles—or supporting someone who is—this episode offers clarity, hope, and truly actionable next steps. What You'll Learn Why gut health plays a major role in fertility The truth about egg quality and inflammation What autoimmune markers can reveal The diet shifts that changed Monica's journey How stress, grief, and emotional overload impact the body Practical gut-support strategies you can start today The role of joy and intuition in healing Chapters 00:00 – Welcome Monica Cox 01:10 – Why Gut Health Matters 02:34 – Monica's IVF Journey 05:41 – Egg Quality Myths 07:28 – Autoimmune Testing & Inflammation 09:01 – Diet Changes and Breakthroughs 12:00 – Emotional Stress & Fertility 14:02 – Moving Forward After Miscarriage 16:00 – Defining Your Own Journey 19:10 – Helping Women Over 40 21:22 – Practical Gut Health Tips 24:11 – Intuition in Healing 25:21 – Importance of Joy 26:37 – Where to Find Monica Cox 27:13 – Final Thoughts & Encouragement Guest Links Monica Cox — "Finding Fertility" Podcast, website, and DMs for personalized guidance. 🎙️ Listen now—and start challenging the beliefs that hold you back. 📅 New episodes every Monday. Subscribe for weekly wellness wisdom. Follow Natalie Website: https://natalietysdal.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/ntysdal TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@ntysdal Facebook: https://facebook.com/natalietysdal Disclaimer: Natalie Tysdal is a health journalist, not a licensed medical professional. This podcast is informational only and not medical advice.  

How to Heal Chronic Illness By Reclaiming Wholeness So many of us believe a chronic diagnosis means a life sentence—but what if you could change the story? In this episode, Dr. Karyn Shanks shares her journey from frustration with conventional medicine to creating a practice focused on healing the whole person. From her personal experience with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome to groundbreaking insights about functional medicine, Dr. Shanks offers hope that chronic conditions aren't just labels—they're starting points for transformation. We dive into the science and spirit of healing: why trauma and lifestyle influence your health, how epigenetics and neuroplasticity unlock new possibilities, and practical steps you can take today. You'll hear about Dr. Shanks' new book "Unbroken: Reclaim Your Wholeness," which delivers a powerful roadmap for building resilience and reclaiming your health. Ready for actionable tools, fresh perspectives, and inspiration? This episode guides you on the stepping stones to thriving—no matter your diagnosis Guest Links/Resources: Dr. Karyn Shanks: https://karenshanksmd.com Instagram & Facebook: @karenshanksmd Book: Unbroken: Reclaim Your Wholeness (Release: 11/11/25, audio/ebook/print) 🎙️ Listen now—and start changing the beliefs that hold you back. 📅 New episodes drop every Monday. Subscribe for weekly wellness wisdom. Follow Natalie: Website: https://natalietysdal.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/ntysdal TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@ntysdal Facebook: https://facebook.com/natalietysdal Disclaimer: Natalie Tysdal is a health journalist, not a licensed medical professional. This podcast is informational only, not medical advice.

Your oral health isn't just about teeth—it's an essential part of whole-body wellness. In this insightful episode, Natalie sits down with biological dentist Dr. Toni Engram to unpack the science and strategies behind holistic dentistry. Discover why more people are turning to biological dental practices, how everyday choices from toothpaste to mouth tape impact your health, and the surprising connection between your mouth's microbiome and chronic conditions. Dr. Engram breaks down the differences between conventional and biological dentistry, explains why she chooses fluoride-free care, and reveals how saliva testing can uncover links between oral pathogens and conditions like heart disease, Alzheimer's, and pregnancy complications. Plus, learn practical tips for optimizing your oral hygiene—from tongue scraping to the role of mouth tape in better sleep and dental outcomes. Guest Links/Resources: Dr. Toni Engram – Instagram: @rtonyngram Website: www.flourish.dental Directory for biological dentists: IAOMT.org Additional Resources/Referen:ces: Past episodes Check out other Natalie Tysdal Podcast episodes for more on functional and holistic health. 🎙️ Listen now—and start changing the beliefs that hold you back. 📅 New episodes drop every Monday. Subscribe for weekly wellness wisdom. Follow Natalie: Website: https://natalietysdal.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/ntysdal TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@ntysdal Facebook: https://facebook.com/natalietysdal Disclaimer: Natalie Tysdal is a health journalist, not a licensed medical professional. This podcast is informational only, not medical advice.

Holistic Health & Detoxing: What You Need to Know Confused by vitamins, supplements, or how to lower toxins in your home? In this episode, Natalie talks with health entrepreneur Gary Binkow about the truth behind the supplement industry, holistic health hacks, and science-backed ways to reduce your toxic load—without breaking the bank. Gary shares insights from his own health journey and introduces The Swell Score, a vetted marketplace for clean wellness products. You'll discover what matters most when choosing supplements, why environmental toxins matter more than you think, and accessible strategies—from giving blood to growing broccoli sprouts—that can jumpstart your detox process. Plus, learn why consumer activism is critical, how to create a healthier home environment, and the transformative power of sweating it out in a sauna. Additional Resources/References:  Episode webpage: Natalietysdal.com/ Book: The Second Mountain by David Brooks: https://amzn.to/4hDBEIM Listen now—and start changing the beliefs that hold you back.  New episodes drop every Monday. Subscribe for weekly wellness wisdom. Follow Natalie: Website: https://natalietysdal.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/ntysdal TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@ntysdal Facebook: https://facebook.com/natalietysdal   Disclaimer: Natalie Tysdal is a health journalist, not a licensed medical professional. This podcast is informational only, not medical advice.

What does a healthy relationship with alcohol really look like? Dr. Nzinga Harrison, chief medical officer and co-founder of Eleanor Health, joins Natalie to break down the realities of addiction, substance use disorders, and how compassion and open conversations can transform families. With deep expertise in adult psychiatry and addiction medicine, Dr. Harrison shares actionable tools to recognize early signs, navigate stigma, and support loved ones—plus insights from her new book and experience as a parent. You'll learn how to use the powerful CAGE screening tool, why support systems are essential, and how addiction is influenced by both biology and environment. Discover the importance of self-compassion, how to talk with teens, and the value of the sober curious movement. Whether you're reevaluating your own habits or helping someone else, this episode equips you with practical strategies and hope for lasting wellness. Follow Natalie: Website: https://natalietysdal.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/ntysdal TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@ntysdal Facebook: https://facebook.com/natalietysdal Disclaimer: Natalie Tysdal is a health journalist, not a licensed medical professional. This podcast is informational only, not medical advice.

What does it mean to truly "have it all" and why does chasing it often leave us feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or numb? In this episode, Natalie sits down with Amanda Goetz, author of the new book Toxic Grit: How to Have It All and Actually Love What You Have, for a refreshingly honest conversation about modern ambition, parenting, and self-compassion. Amanda shares her powerful "character theory" framework, revealing how we can identify, honor, and intentionally prioritize the different roles we play—CEO, mom, friend, partner—to break out of cycles of guilt and toxic productivity. You'll learn the practical strategies she uses to create boundaries, set "hierarchies," and move beyond the significance and urgency traps. Plus, discover the real meaning of rest, how to build discipline, and why embracing intentional imbalance might be the secret to happiness. Show Resources and Links: NatalieTysdal.com/Podcast 📅 New episodes drop every Monday. Subscribe for weekly wellness wisdom. Follow Natalie: Website: https://natalietysdal.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/ntysdal TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@ntysdal Facebook: https://facebook.com/natalietysdal Disclaimer: Natalie Tysdal is a health journalist, not a licensed medical professional. This podcast is informational only, not medical advice.