The Hidden Hormone Shift Driving Chronic Disease in Women - With Dr. Jessica Shepard

Apr 6, 2026

Dr. Jessica Shepherd, a board-certified OB/GYN and author focused on perimenopause and women’s longevity. She unpacks hormonal shifts in midlife. Short, practical takes cover heart and bone health, thyroid changes, hot flashes, metabolic shifts, sleep disruption, strength training, nutrition, and when hormone therapy may help.

Ask episode

AI Snips

Chapters

Books

Transcript

Episode notes

INSIGHT

Estrogen Is A Bodywide Messenger For The Heart

Estrogen acts beyond reproduction, with receptors in heart, bone, muscle, brain and gut influencing organ function.
Shepard explains estrogen decline reduces heart contractility and increases atherosclerotic plaque after menopause.

ADVICE

Lift Heavy To Protect Bone And Muscle

Strength train regularly to preserve bone and muscle and reduce osteoporosis risk during and after perimenopause.
Shepard urges 'triple down' on resistance work because mechanical force sustains bone and prevents falls.

INSIGHT

Hot Flashes Come From A Lost Estrogen Thermostat

Hot flashes stem from estrogen loss at a temperature‑regulating neuron (KNDy neuron) in the hypothalamus.
Without estrogen the 'thermostat' misfires, so restoring estrogen often directly reduces hot flashes.

Get the Snipd Podcast app to discover more snips from this episode

Get the app

For decades, the transition of perimenopause and menopause has largely been ignored. But thanks to emerging data and passionate experts, the conversation is starting to shift and expand. Today, you’re going to learn about the hormones involved in menopause and their relationship to other health conditions.

Our guest, Dr. Jessica Shepherd is a board-certified OB/GYN, author, and leading voice in women’s health and longevity. Dr. Shepherd joins this episode of The Model Health Show for an important conversation on how women can thrive throughout perimenopause and menopause. She’s sharing science-backed insights from her book, Generation M.

In this interview, you’re going to learn about the health issues that women experience throughout perimenopause and menopause, and how to ease symptoms through lifestyle-based recommendations. Dr. Shepherd is a true expert on the latest data surrounding menopause, and I know you’re going to find value in her accessible approach. So click play and enjoy the show!

In this episode you’ll discover:

What percentage of American adults have a chronic disease. (0:26)
The three main reasons why women are more susceptible to certain health issues. (2:46)
Why the perimenopausal phase is like a dimmer switch. (6:41)
The importance of body awareness during perimenopause. (7:51)
How hormones are linked to cardiovascular disease. (10:00)
What women need to know about osteoporosis. (13:17)
The critical role of strength training for women. (16:59)
How the thyroid is affected by hormonal shifts in menopause. (18:02)
The connection between the thyroid, hot flashes, and menopause. (19:40)
How metabolic syndrome can be caused by perimenopause and menopause. (22:28)
The benefits of hormone replacement therapy. (27:51)
Why sleep is critical during perimenopause and menopause. (30:52)
Dr. Shepherd’s prescription for diet and exercise for women in mid-life. (39:07)

Items mentioned in this episode include:

Themodelhealthshow.com/ourplace - Use code MODEL to save up to 40% OFF sitewide on toxin-free, ceramic coated cookware!
Paleovalley.com/model - Use code MODEL for 15% off!
Generation M by Dr. Jessica Shepherd - Read more about living well through menopause!
Modern Meno - Join Dr. Shepherd’s longevity and menopause community!
Connect with Dr. Jessica Shepherd Website / Instagram / TikTok

Be sure you are subscribed to this podcast to automatically receive your episodes:

This episode of The Model Health Show is brought to you by Our Place and Paleovalley.

For a limited time only, save up to 40% OFF during Our Place’s spring sale. Use my code MODEL at themodelhealthshow.com/ourplace.

Use my code MODEL at Paleovalley.com/model to save 15% sitewide on nutrient dense snacks, superfood supplements, and more.