All About You With Dr Shauna Watts

If desire and closeness are shifting in your relationship during perimenopause, this episode breaks down exactly why it happens, what couples can do, and how to stay connected without pressure, guilt, or shame.In this episode of All About You, Dr. Shauna Watts sits down with Senior Clinical Psychologist and Certified Gottman Therapist, Natalie King, to explore how perimenopause impacts intimacy, desire, and emotional connection in midlife relationships.For many couples, sexual desire doesn’t vanish overnight. Instead, it shifts gradually, influenced by physical changes like hormonal fluctuations, sleep disruption, fatigue, and vaginal dryness, as well as emotional stress and brain fog. Natalie explains why emotional safety often matters more than libido for women during this stage of life and shares evidence-informed strategies to help couples reconnect without pressure or blame.Key topics covered in this episode include:Understanding spontaneous vs. responsive desire and how it changes in perimenopausePractical ways to communicate about sex and intimacy without creating pressureWhy emotional connection is essential for sexual satisfactionHow to maintain closeness even when sex isn’t possibleStrategies to support partners and navigate guilt or fearGradual approaches for couples overcoming painful sex or low libidoManaging relationship changes while preserving connection and mutual understandingWhether you’re experiencing changes in desire, struggling with guilt, or simply want to understand how to maintain closeness in midlife, this episode provides practical guidance, supportive insights, and reassurance that you’re not alone.Stay connected, informed, and compassionate with your partner as you navigate the changes that come with perimenopause.Learn more about the 16 week Rediscover You program here:🔗https://youbydrshaunawatts.com.au/16-week-rediscover-you-menopause-program/Leave a Voice NoteHave a question about perimenopause, brain fog, anxiety, or midlife confidence? Leave a 45-second voice note via our website below. Your question may be featured in a future episode.🔗https://www.allaboutyoupod.comFollow and learn more from Natalie King here:https://thereadclinic.com/practitioners/natalie-king/Follow Dr Shauna and the podcast on social:Podcast Website: ⁠www.allaboutyoupod.com⁠Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allaboutyou_withdrshaunawatts https://www.instagram.com/drshaunawattsgpLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauna-watts-a903a5247Disclaimer: This podcast and any information, advice, opinions or statements within it do not constitute medical, health care or other professional advice. Information is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only.Chapters 01:10 - Emotional and Physical Intimacy Shifts Explained03:45 - Communication Secrets for Better Desire04:31 - Creating Emotional Safety During Perimenopause06:53 - How to Build Intimacy Rituals With Your Partner09:07 - Spontaneous vs Responsive Desire in Midlife13:18 - Staying Affectionate Without Pressure16:29 - Rediscover You Program for Midlife Women37:02 - Curiosity, Patience, and Flexibility in RelationshipsKeywordsperimenopause intimacymidlife desire changescouples counseling midlifeemotional connection in relationshipsresponsive desire womenrekindling intimacy perimenopauserelationship advice 40+navigating libido changes

Your blood tests say everything is “normal”. So why do you still feel exhausted, foggy, and unlike yourself?Hormonal changes in midlife often begin long before anything obvious appears in lab results. Many women experience fatigue, brain fog, sleep disruption, and metabolic changes, yet are reassured that everything looks normal.In this episode of All About You, Dr Shauna Watts continues her conversation with menopause specialist Dr. Catherine Johnson to explore why hormone health cannot be understood through a single blood test.They discuss the relationship between hormones, thyroid function, metabolism, and energy, and why symptoms can appear even when results fall within standard ranges. The conversation also highlights why hormones need to be viewed as an interconnected system and why a broader approach can help women better understand what their bodies are experiencing during midlife.What You’ll Learn• Why you can still feel unwell even when blood tests are “normal”• What hormone optimisation means in midlife• How thyroid function influences energy, metabolism, and mood• Why hormones work as a connected system in the body• Why midlife symptoms are often misunderstood or dismissedLearn more about the 16 week Rediscover You program here:🔗https://youbydrshaunawatts.com.au/16-week-rediscover-you-menopause-program/Leave a Voice NoteHave a question about perimenopause, brain fog, anxiety, or midlife confidence? Leave a 45-second voice note via our website below. Your question may be featured in a future episode.🔗https://www.allaboutyoupod.comFollow and learn more from Catherine Johnson Here:https://www.instagram.com/catherinejohnsonmd/https://myprecisionmedicalcare.comFollow Dr Shauna and the podcast on social:Podcast Website: ⁠www.allaboutyoupod.com⁠Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allaboutyou_withdrshaunawatts https://www.instagram.com/drshaunawattsgpLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauna-watts-a903a5247Disclaimer: This podcast and any information, advice, opinions or statements within it do not constitute medical, health care or other professional advice. Information is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only.Chapters 00:00 - Introduction01:46 – Hormone Optimization Explained: What It Really Means03:28 – Stop the Medication Spiral in Midlife05:14 – How Hormones Affect Heart Health and Longevity07:35 – Personalized Hormone Therapy: Finding Your Perfect Dose10:45 – Thyroid Secrets: Why Energy & Metabolism Struggle15:25 – GLP-1 Medications: Weight, Insulin, and Midlife Health21:08 – How to Reclaim Energy and Motivation in Midlife25:32 – Menopause Isn’t a Problem… But Symptoms Matter27:07 – Restoring Vitality: Hope Through Hormone Optimization28:48 – Key Takeaways: Hormones, Thyroid, and Energy Insights58:11 – Rediscover You: A Program for Midlife WomenKeywordshormone optimizationthyroid health womenmidlife hormonesperimenopause hormonesmenopause fatiguethyroid and hormoneshormone imbalance symptomsmidlife energy losshormones after 40women’s health hormoneshormone replacement therapythyroid metabolism womenfatigue in perimenopausebrain fog menopausehormonal health for womenmetabolic health midlifecortisol insulin estrogen balancewomen’s health podcastmenopause specialist advice

Menopause is often discussed in terms of hot flushes, sleep disruption, and mood changes. But hormonal shifts affect far more than we realise. And one area that is rarely talked about is oral health.Many women entering perimenopause or menopause begin noticing symptoms that seem unrelated at first: a dry mouth that doesn’t improve with water, increased tooth sensitivity, jaw clenching, headaches, or even a burning sensation on the tongue.In this episode of All About You, Dr Shauna Watts speaks with expert dentist Dr Martina Lavery, who specialises in the connection between oral health and whole-body health.Together they unpack how hormonal changes influence the mouth, jaw, teeth and facial structure during midlife.Dr Martina also shares practical strategies to help manage common issues including jaw tension, mouth dryness, and dental crowding that can develop later in life.If you’ve ever woken up with a tight jaw, experienced unexplained mouth discomfort, or noticed changes in your smile during midlife, this episode will help connect the dots between hormones, oral health, and overall wellbeing.Learn more about the 16 week Rediscover You program here:🔗https://youbydrshaunawatts.com.au/16-week-rediscover-you-menopause-program/Leave a Voice NoteHave a question about perimenopause, brain fog, anxiety, or midlife confidence? Leave a 45-second voice note via our website below. Your question may be featured in a future episode.🔗https://www.allaboutyoupod.comFollow Dr Shauna and the podcast on social:Podcast Website: ⁠www.allaboutyoupod.com⁠Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allaboutyou_withdrshaunawatts https://www.instagram.com/drshaunawattsgpLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauna-watts-a903a5247Disclaimer: This podcast and any information, advice, opinions or statements within it do not constitute medical, health care or other professional advice. Information is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only.Chapters 01:08 Why So Many People Fear the Dentist03:31 - How Hormones Change Oral Health in Menopause05:10 - Why Dry Mouth Happens in Midlife07:11 - Why Saliva Protects Your Teeth11:03 - The Oral Microbiome and Menopause13:20 - Burning Tongue Syndrome Explained15:26 - Jaw Clenching, Teeth Grinding and Headaches20:05 - How to Relax Your Jaw and Reduce Clenching32:20 - How Teeth Influence Facial Aging40:12 - Dangerous Dental Trends on Social MediaKeywordsmenopause oral healthperimenopause dry mouthmenopause jaw painburning mouth syndrome menopauseteeth grinding menopausebruxism menopausehormonal changes oral healthmenopause dental symptomsTMJ menopausemenopause facial changesmenopause dry mouth treatmentestrogen oral healthwhy does menopause cause dry mouthmenopause teeth grinding and jaw painburning tongue during menopausehow hormones affect oral healthfacial changes during menopause

Have you ever wanted to talk to your teen about alcohol or drugs but didn’t know where to start?In this episode with Paul Dillon, one of Australia’s leading experts in youth drug and alcohol education, to unpack what actually works when it comes to keeping teenagers safe.This isn’t a fear-based conversation. It’s a practical, evidence-informed discussion about how to build influence, maintain connection, and respond calmly when things don’t go to plan.You’ll learn:• Why ongoing conversations work better than one intense “sit-down talk”• How to ask about peer behavior without interrogating your teen• Why early conversations about medication build respect for substances• How to create a safe exit strategy your teen can use at parties• What to do if your teen calls you intoxicated• The difference between consequences and punishment• How to respond calmly if you find drugs in your child’s room• The three core protective factors every parent should prioritizePaul also explains how communication naturally shifts during adolescence from messaging to consulting and why maintaining connection during Years 9 and 10 can significantly influence long-term outcomes.We also cover:• Setting clear boundaries around alcohol in your home• The growing risks of pharmaceutical misuse, including Xanax and Valium• How to respond without panic when something goes wrongThis episode isn’t about raising perfect teenagers, it’s about raising connected, informed, and resilient ones.Because when it comes to protecting teens, connection, clarity, and consistency are far more powerful than fear, lectures, or avoidance.If you’re navigating the teenage years or they’re coming soon, this conversation will give you practical tools and reassurance that you’re not alone.If you’re navigating the teenage years or they’re coming soon, this conversation will give you practical tools and reassurance that you’re not alone. Learn more about the 16 week Rediscover You program here: 🔗https://youbydrshaunawatts.com.au/16-week-rediscover-you-menopause-program/ Leave a Voice Note Have a question about perimenopause, brain fog, anxiety, or midlife confidence? Leave a 45-second voice note via our website below. Your question may be featured in a future episode. 🔗https://www.allaboutyoupod.com Follow and learn more from Paul Dillon here: https://www.instagram.com/dillonpauldarta/?hl=en https://bookedout.com.au/speaker/paul-dillon-darta Follow Dr Shauna and the podcast on social: Podcast Website: ⁠www.allaboutyoupod.com⁠ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allaboutyou_withdrshaunawatts https://www.instagram.com/drshaunawattsgp LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauna-watts-a903a5247 Disclaimer: This podcast and any information, advice, opinions or statements within it do not constitute medical, health care or other professional advice. Information is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only. Chapters 00:00 – How to Talk to Your Teen About Alcohol & Drugs 01:17 – When Should You Start Talking to Your Child About Drugs? 05:39 – Teen Xanax Use & Prescription Drug Misuse Explained 08:19 – Why the “Big Talk” About Drugs Doesn’t Work 12:32 – “You Drink, So Why Can’t I?” How to Respond 16:03 – Should Parents Be Present for Their Teen’s First Drink? 17:21 – Does Supplying Alcohol Reduce Harm? What the Research Says 21:01 – Creating a Safe Exit Strategy From Teen Parties 25:15 – Consequences vs Punishment: What Actually Works With Teens 30:02 – What to Do If You Find Drugs in Your Teen’s Room Keywords how to talk to teens about drugs how to talk to teens about alcohol teen drinking advice parenting teens alcohol teen drug prevention what to do if you find drugs in your child’s room should parents give teens alcohol teen vaping and pharmaceutical misuse setting boundaries with teenagers consequences vs punishment parenting how to keep teens safe at parties teen alcohol exit strategy

What if the strain in your relationship right now isn’t because you feel incompatibility?For many couples, midlife relationship strain doesn’t begin with one major conflict. It appears gradually; less patience, more misunderstandings, disrupted sleep, reduced intimacy, and a growing sense of distance.In this episode, Dr. Shauna Watts speaks with Senior Clinical Psychologist and Certified Gottman Therapist, Natalie King, about how perimenopause affects not only a woman’s body, but the dynamic of her relationship.Perimenopause is often discussed as a women’s health issue but it is also a relational transition.Hormonal changes can influence mood, anxiety levels, sleep quality, energy, and emotional regulation. When these shifts are not recognised, couples can begin to attach meaning to them, questioning compatibility, commitment, or the future of the relationship.Together, they explore:• Why relationship strain in midlife is often about reduced capacity rather than incompatibility• How anxiety, exhaustion, and sleep disruption affect communication• The role of resentment and why unresolved conflict builds over time• The Gottman Method and the communication patterns that place relationships at risk• Why repair conversations matter more than getting it right every time• How curiosity and small daily check-ins can prevent disconnection• The importance of maintaining friendship during major life transitionsNot every relationship will continue, and not every relationship should. But many couples can navigate this season more effectively when they understand what is changing and approach it as a shared experience rather than a personal failing.If your relationship feels harder than it used to, this episode offers perspective, clarity, and practical direction.Learn more about the 16 week Rediscover You program here:🔗https://youbydrshaunawatts.com.au/16-week-rediscover-you-menopause-program/Leave a Voice NoteHave a question about perimenopause, brain fog, anxiety, or midlife confidence? Leave a 45-second voice note via our website below. Your question may be featured in a future episode.🔗https://www.allaboutyoupod.comFollow and learn more from Natalie King here:https://thereadclinic.com/practitioners/natalie-king/Follow Dr Shauna and the podcast on social:Podcast Website: ⁠www.allaboutyoupod.com⁠Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allaboutyou_withdrshaunawatts https://www.instagram.com/drshaunawattsgpLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauna-watts-a903a5247—------------------------Chapters 01:10 — Perimenopause Is a Relationship Transition04:44 — The Three Patterns Couples Fall Into06:15 — Anxiety, Mood Shifts and Misinterpreted Meaning09:01 — Why Couples Stop Giving Each Other Grace11:31 — The Estrogen Veil and Role Realignment16:20 — Rejection, Desire and Male Sensitivity18:05 — Keeping Your Partner Informed21:12 — Reactive Communication and the Power of Repair24:10 — Strengthening the Friendship in Your Relationship31:10 — The Gottman Method Explained33:15 — The Four Horsemen of Relationship Breakdown39:13 — Resentment and Repairing the Past46:34 — From “What’s Wrong With Us?” to “What’s Happening to Us?”Keywordsperimenopause and relationshipsmenopause and marriagemidlife relationship problemsperimenopause anxiety and moodhow hormones affect relationshipswhy do couples struggle in midlifeperimenopause emotional changesfeeling disconnected from partner midlifeGottman method four horsemenresentment in marriage midlifeperimenopause communication problemsdivorce during menopauseDisclaimer: This podcast and any information, advice, opinions or statements within it do not constitute medical, health care or other professional advice. Information is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only.

What if aging isn’t random, but predictable, measurable, and modifiable?Longevity medicine isn’t about living forever. It’s about protecting your strength, cognition, metabolic health, and independence, especially in midlife.In this episode with Catherine Johnson MD, Longevity & Precision Health Expert, we unpack what longevity medicine actually means for women over 40 and why the real drivers of aging aren’t what most people think.This conversation is about understanding how metabolic health, hormones, muscle mass, sleep, and stress quietly shape your health span, the years you live well, not just long.You’ll learn:The difference between lifespan and health spanWhy midlife is a critical window for preventionHow insulin resistance and cortisol influence weight gain and fatigueWhy muscle is an organ of longevity, not just something aestheticHow stress shortens telomeres and accelerates agingWhy “normal lab results” don’t always mean optimal healthWhat actually moves the needle for long-term vitalityMany women in their 40s and 50s say, “I just don’t feel like myself anymore.”They’re not dramatically unwell.They’re not in crisis. But something feels off.This conversation explains why.If you care about staying strong, sharp, and capable after 40, this episode will change how you think about aging.Learn more about the 16 week Rediscover You program here:🔗https://youbydrshaunawatts.com.au/16-week-rediscover-you-menopause-program/Leave a Voice NoteHave a question about perimenopause, brain fog, anxiety, or midlife confidence? Leave a 45-second voice note via our website below. Your question may be featured in a future episode.🔗https://www.allaboutyoupod.comFollow and learn more from Catherine Johnson Here:https://www.instagram.com/catherinejohnsonmd/https://myprecisionmedicalcare.comFollow Dr Shauna and the podcast on social:Podcast Website: ⁠www.allaboutyoupod.com⁠Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allaboutyou_withdrshaunawatts https://www.instagram.com/drshaunawattsgpLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauna-watts-a903a5247—------------------------00:41 - What Longevity Medicine Actually Means02:41 - Healthspan vs Lifespan Explained05:28 - Why Midlife Is a Critical Turning Point09:20 - “I Just Don’t Feel Like Myself”13:36 - The Hormone Shifts Driving Subtle Changes16:56 - What Lab Trends Really Reveal in Midlife20:18 - What Metabolic Health Actually Means24:28 - The Cortisol–Insulin Weight Gain Cycle31:18 - Trends vs What Actually Moves the Needle33:58 - Stress, Telomeres & Accelerated Aging36:35 - Why Sleep Is Foundational39:14 - Muscle: The Organ of Longevity43:34 - BMI vs Body Composition45:05 - Is It Too Late After 60?48:17 - Aging With Agency, Not Fear—------------------------longevity medicine for womenmidlife healthhealth span vs lifespanmetabolic health womenperimenopause metabolic changes why women gain weight in midlifecortisol and weight gain womenmuscle and longevityinsulin resistance in perimenopauseaging and metabolic healthhow to improve health spanmenopause and metabolic syndromesarcopenia women

Can’t sleep through the night? In midlife, wake-ups, restless nights, and feeling unrefreshed are often misunderstood but they’re not your fault. In this episode, we explore the real reasons sleep changes during perimenopause and menopause, and how to work with your body instead of against it.We bring together key conversations on sleep, hormones, alcohol, and the female brain. If you fall asleep but wake at 3 a.m., feel wired yet exhausted, or struggle to feel rested no matter how long you sleep, this episode explains why: without fear, shame, or oversimplified “fixes.”You’ll hear why there’s no single “perfect” amount of sleep, how hormonal shifts reshape your sleep cycles, and why even one drink of alcohol can quietly sabotage restorative rest. We also dive into something rarely discussed: sleep isn’t passive. While your body rests, your brain is actively processing emotion, filing memories, and softening the edges of daily stress. When sleep is disrupted, that work doesn’t happen— nd it shows up as irritability, anxiety, low mood, or burnout.Topics covered include:- Why sleep changes during perimenopause and menopause- How REM sleep supports emotional and mental health- The impact of estrogen and progesterone on sleep quality- Why more sleep isn’t always better and less sleep isn’t always the problem- Evidence-based, practical strategies to improve sleep without pressure or perfectionIf sleep has started to feel fragile, frustrating, or out of reach, this episode will help you reframe it, calm your nervous system, and stop blaming yourself.Learn more about the 16 week Rediscover You program here:🔗https://youbydrshaunawatts.com.au/16-week-rediscover-you-menopause-program/Leave a Voice NoteHave a question about perimenopause, brain fog, anxiety, or midlife confidence? Leave a 45-second voice note via our website below. Your question may be featured in a future episode.🔗https://www.allaboutyoupod.comFollow Dr Shauna and the podcast on social:Podcast Website: ⁠www.allaboutyoupod.com⁠Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allaboutyou_withdrshaunawatts https://www.instagram.com/drshaunawattsgpLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauna-watts-a903a524700:00 – Why sleep feels harder lately01:19 – How much sleep do we actually need?02:47 – What happens when you oversleep or undersleep05:14 – The real health risks of chronic poor sleep07:15 – Why alcohol sabotages your sleep09:32 – Alcohol, REM sleep, and emotional regulation10:57 – Hormones, fatigue, and the hidden cost of nightly drinking12:42 – Sponsor: Rediscover You Program13:27 – Sleep as emotional repair, not just rest15:24 – Why REM sleep matters so much17:01 – Practical sleep habits that actually help18:37 – How to quiet a racing mind at night20:13 – Phones, clocks, and sleep anxiety22:26 – Hormones and sleep quality in midlife25:26 – The ideal sleep environment27:08 – You can’t ‘bank’ sleep29:06 – Circadian rhythm and morning light31:26 – Why you may still feel tired after sleeping better32:58 – Screens: is it the light or the engagement?34:56 – The most important thing to know about sleepDisclaimer: This podcast and any information, advice, opinions or statements within it do not constitute medical, health care or other professional advice. Information is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only.sleep problems womenperimenopause sleepmenopause insomniawomen and sleepREM Sleepwhy do I wake up at 3am every nightalcohol and sleep quality womenREM sleep emotional processinghormones and sleep architecturehow to improve sleep in perimenopauseestrogen progesterone sleepwhy I’m tired after sleeping 8 hours

If you are raising a teenager, this conversation will change how you think about alcohol and drugs.Alcohol feels unavoidable, cannabis seems increasingly normalised, and parents are hearing about drugs they never encountered growing up.But what is actually happening?In this episode of All About You, Dr Shauna Watts is joined by Paul Dillon, founder of Drug and Alcohol Research and Training Australia (DARTA), to unpack the real data behind teen alcohol and drug use. The conversation is calm, evidence based, and free from fear driven messaging.With decades of experience working directly with schools, parents, and young people, Paul explains what the research really shows, why many assumptions are outdated, and how parents can reduce harm while maintaining trust and connection with their teens.This episode is for parents who want clarity rather than panic, and guidance that works in real family life.And if you want to learn more about: • Why teen drinking is declining in Australia and internationally• What the evidence shows about alcohol and the developing teenage brain• Why delaying alcohol use matters, without unrealistic parenting rules• How parenting approaches have shifted and why that matters• Why ketamine is an emerging concern for young people• How drug access has changed, even when overall use has not increased• How to talk to teens about drugs without fear, shame, or overreaction• The difference between loss of potential and fear based brain damage messaging• Why one parenting approach rarely works for every childLearn more about the 16 week Rediscover You program here:🔗https://youbydrshaunawatts.com.au/16-week-rediscover-you-menopause-program/Leave a Voice NoteHave a question about perimenopause, brain fog, anxiety, or midlife confidence? Leave a 45-second voice note via our website below. Your question may be featured in a future episode.🔗https://www.allaboutyoupod.comFollow Dr Shauna and the podcast on social:Podcast Website: ⁠www.allaboutyoupod.com⁠Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allaboutyou_withdrshaunawattshttps://www.instagram.com/drshaunawattsgpLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauna-watts-a903a5247Disclaimer: This podcast and any information, advice, opinions or statements within it do not constitute medical, health care or other professional advice. Information is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only.Chapters 00:00 – Why parents are more anxious about teen drugs than ever02:18 – Are teens actually drinking less? What the data shows05:41 – How teen drinking today compares to previous generations09:12 – Alcohol and the developing teenage brain explained simply14:06 – Why delaying alcohol use matters more than total abstinence18:32 – What parents misunderstand about brain damage messaging22:47 – How parenting styles influence teen risk behaviour27:15 – Why access to drugs has changed for young people31:40 – Ketamine use in teenagers and why it concerns experts36:54 – Cannabis, MDMA, and alcohol compared for teen risk41:26 – How to talk to teens about drugs without losing trust46:08 – What effective harm reduction actually looks like at home51:02 – When parents should be genuinely concerned55:18 – The biggest mistake parents make around teen substance use59:40 – Final advice for parents raising teens todayteen drug useteen drinking statisticsteenage alcohol usedrugs and teensadolescent brain development alcoholparenting teens drugs alcoholare teens drinking lesseffects of alcohol on teenage brainketamine use in teenagershow parents should talk to teens about drugsevidence based parenting teensalcohol and drugs high school studentsteen substance use trends

Feeling foggy, anxious, or unsure of who you are in midlife? Midlife isn’t just a physical transition; it’s a profound psychological and neurological one. In this episode of All About You, Dr. Shauna Watts explores why so many women experience a loss of confidence, identity shifts, anxiety, and brain fog during perimenopause and menopause, and what actually helps.Joined by clinical psychologist Heather Irvine Rundle, neuroscientist Dr. Lila Landowski, alcohol coach Sarah Rusbatch, and media personality Maz Compton, this conversation unpacks the science behind cognitive change, emotional overwhelm, and the identity crisis many women face when life roles shift.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeUnderstand why midlife identity loss is so common (and why it’s not a personal failure)Learn how perimenopause affects brain function, memory, and attentionDiscover the concept of cognitive reserve and how to protect long-term brain healthWhy multitasking increases brain fog and anxiety during midlifeHow reducing or removing alcohol can dramatically improve mood, sleep, and clarityPractical, science-backed ways to rebuild confidence and self-trustLearn more about the 16 week Rediscover You program here:https://youbydrshaunawatts.com.au/16-week-rediscover-you-menopause-program/Leave a Voice NoteHave a question about perimenopause, brain fog, anxiety, or midlife confidence?Leave a 45-second voice note via our website below. your question may be featured in a future episode.https://www.allaboutyoupod.comFollow Dr Shauna and the podcast on social:Podcast Website: ⁠www.allaboutyoupod.com⁠Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allaboutyou_withdrshaunawatts https://www.instagram.com/drshaunawattsgpLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauna-watts-a903a5247Disclaimer: This podcast and any information, advice, opinions or statements within it do not constitute medical, health care or other professional advice. Information is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only.00:00:00 - Introduction00:01:43 - Understanding Identity in Midlife00:08:10 - Dealing with Empty Nest Syndrome00:09:04 - Identity and Relationships00:11:31 - The Role of Childhood in Shaping Identity00:12:38 - The Need for Novelty and Challenge00:13:55 - Multitasking vs Monotasking00:17:35 - Brain Hacks for Learning Faster and More Effectively00:23:04 - Rediscover You Program - Dr Shaunas 16 week program for women in midlife00:23:48 - Reducing Alcohol Consumption: Strategies and Challenges00:27:30 - The Struggle of Grey Area Drinkers00:30:39 - The Hardship of Quitting Alcohol00:31:18 - Anxiety in Perimenopause00:35:40 - Cognitive Behavior Therapy Explained00:40:17 - The Importance of Therapy00:46:03 - Making the Choice to Stop Drinking00:47:58 - The Impact of Sobriety on Relationships00:52:57 - The Role of Choice in Sobriety00:54:55 - The Influence of Culture on Drinking Habits00:57:21 - The Impact of Generational Shifts on Drinkingmidlife identity crisisperimenopause brain fogmenopause mental healthconfidence in midlifewomen’s brain healthanxiety in perimenopausecognitive changes menopausealcohol and anxiety womenrebuilding identity midlifebrain fog menopause

Menopause is not the finish line, it’s a turning point. In this episode of All About You, GP Dr. Shauna Watts continues her conversation with urologist and author Dr Kelly Casperson to explore what happens after menopause and how women can protect their brain, body, and relationships for decades to come. In this episode, you’ll discover how to:Understand the role of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone beyond reproductionProtect brain health and mood during and after menopauseUse strength training as a foundation for longevity and independenceImprove sleep, metabolic health, and cardiovascular resilienceRethink intimacy, pleasure, and sexual health as longevity toolsReframe menopause as a springboard into a stronger, more confident phase of lifeLearn more about the 16 week Rediscover You program here:https://youbydrshaunawatts.com.au/16-week-rediscover-you-menopause-program/Follow Dr Shauna and the podcast on social:Podcast Website: ⁠www.allaboutyoupod.com⁠.Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allaboutyou_withdrshaunawatts https://www.instagram.com/drshaunawattsgpLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shauna-watts-a903a524700:00:00 – Menopause, Hormones & What This Episode Covers00:01:15 – How Hormones Affect the Brain, Mood & Mental Health After Menopause00:07:52 – Hormones, Aging & Longevity Explained00:13:18 – Why Muscle Is Critical for Women’s Health After Menopause00:15:07 – Building Muscle After 40, 50 & Menopause00:17:35 – Overcoming Fear of Strength Training in Midlife00:21:55 – Cholesterol & Cardiovascular Changes in Perimenopause00:26:56 – Sleep Problems After Menopause and Why They Matter00:29:54 – Sex, Pleasure & Longevity After Menopause00:31:28 – Female Anatomy, Desire & Sexual Response00:32:24 – Sexual Trauma, Shame & Stigma in Women’s Health00:33:27 – Common Sexual Health Changes With Aging00:35:49 – Menopause Myths: Do Labia Really Disappear?00:36:34 – Hormones, Sexual Health & the Pelvic Floor00:42:15 – Letting Go of Fear Around Menopause00:45:28 – Menopause as Empowerment, Not Decline00:47:47 – Advocating for Yourself in Healthcare + Final TakeawaysDisclaimer: This podcast and any information, advice, opinions or statements within it do not constitute medical, health care or other professional advice. Information is provided for educational and entertainment purposes only.menopause and longevitylife after menopausehormones and agingmenopause brain healthmenopause muscle strengthestrogen and brain healthtestosterone in womenmenopause and cardiovascular riskmenopause sleep problemsperimenopause cholesterolhow hormones affect aging after menopausestrength training for women over 50menopause and dementia risksexual health after menopausehow to age well after menopause