Episode 125

Published October 14, 2025

In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Shahzadi Harper and Dr. Jaclyn Smeaton explore the multifaceted journey of women through midlife.

This episode also highlights:

• The importance of understanding hormonal changes during menopause
• Cultural perspectives on menopause and how they impact a woman’s experience
• The significance of community and connection during midlife
• Practical strategies for navigating seasonal health challenges
• The impact of nutrition and lifestyle adjustments, including an exploration into GLP-1s and hair loss during midlife

Key Moments

0:00 Introduction to Women's Health and Hormones

2:42 The Importance of Midlife Women's Health

7:53 Understanding Perimenopause and Menopause

12:48 Cultural Perspectives on Aging and Menopause

15:52 Challenges in Women's Health Research

16:52 Holistic Approaches to Women's Health

18:16 Seasonal Changes and Their Impact on Women

19:52 Practical Tips for Managing Seasonal Affective Symptoms

24:43 Hair Changes in Midlife and Their Impact

30:21 Investing in Hair Care During Midlife

31:32 Hormonal Changes and Hair Loss

33:03 The Impact of GLP-1s on Weight and Hair

35:25 Benefits of GLP-1s Beyond Weight Loss

38:42 Integrating GLP-1s in Women's Health

40:29 Seasonal Nutrition Adjustments

47:19 Movement Strategies for Seasonal Changes

56:20 Wind Down Routines for Better Sleep

About our speaker

Dr. Shahzadi Harper is a leading voice in women’s midlife health with over 20 years of experience in areas like menopause, perimenopause, PCOS, and aging-related challenges. As both a clinician and a woman, she brings empathy and a holistic approach to each patient’s journey. Her work has been featured on major TV channels and in publications like Vogue and Grazia, empowering thousands of women to thrive at every stage.

Show Notes

Learn more about Dr. Harper and follow her on Instagram @drshahzadiharper!

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