In this episode of Save Yourself, I dive into one of the most misunderstood—and rarely discussed—phases in women’s health: perimenopause. Drawing from my experience as a double board-certified MD and nutritionist, as well as my own personal journey, I break down the confusion around perimenopause and reveal my top five actionable tips to embrace this transition with energy and vitality.
From the science behind heat shock proteins and the benefits of sauna therapy, to the essential role your gut microbiome plays during hormonal changes, we’ll discuss practical strategies you can start using today. Discover the power of walking, the secrets to supporting your circadian rhythms, and which foods and supplements make the biggest impact during perimenopause. Whether you’re in your 30s, 40s, or 50s, or just want to support someone you love through this stage, this episode is packed with science-backed advice and empowering insights to help you thrive—not just survive—through perimenopause. Tune in for a dose of hope, clarity, and expert guidance!
Episode Highlights
00:00 Perimenopause/Menopause Symptom Management
03:39 "Sauna Benefits: Heat Shock Proteins"
08:29 Improve Gut Health During Menopause
11:08 Probiotic, Fiber, and Protein Essentials
14:31 Walking to Combat Perimenopausal Weight Gain
17:31 Improving Sleep for Better Health
21:24 Empowering Life Post-Menopause
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24:21
Ep 64: The 3 Life-Changing Habits I Adopted After 40
In this episode of Save Yourself, I open up about three powerful changes I made after turning 40 that completely transformed my health, mindset, and overall happiness. Drawing from personal experience and backed by fascinating scientific studies, I’ll dive into the importance of adding more fermented foods to your diet, the undervalued magic of daily walks, and the surprising role that your social circle plays in shaping your well-being—right down to your gut health!
With actionable tips and heartfelt stories (including how a family health crisis drove these lessons home), this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice for anyone looking to feel their best at any age. Tune in for an honest, uplifting conversation about simple habits that can make a world of difference in your life.
Episode Highlights
00:00 Gut Health and Brain Connection
03:18 Hormonal Health Struggles and Discovery
09:04 Western Diet's Impact on Gut Health
12:11 Walking Boosts Longevity
14:20 Walking: Low-Cortisol Brain Booster
17:45 "Microbiome Resemblance: Close Contacts"
20:06 Curate Your Inspiring Circle
25:30 Walking, Friendships, and Health
29:08 Suspected Jaw Injury at 16
32:33 "Rapid Weight Loss Concerns"
33:59 "Nutrition's Transformative Power"
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38:35
Ep 63 Understanding High Functioning Depression and Finding Joy with Dr. Judith Joseph
In this episode of Save Yourself, I’m sitting down with my good friend and renowned psychiatrist, Dr. Judith Joseph, for an eye-opening exploration of high functioning depression—a form of depression that often goes unnoticed because those who suffer from it appear to be “doing it all” on the outside.
Dr. Judith shares insights from her research, her new book, “High Functioning,” and candidly opens up about her own experience with this hidden struggle during the pandemic. Together, we unpack the difference between joy and happiness, explain the concept of anhedonia (the loss of pleasure), and discuss how trauma, cultural background, and family history play a role.
You’ll also hear about Dr. Judith’s evidence-based “5 Vs Method” to reclaim joy and improve wellbeing and how to differentiate burnout from high functioning depression. Plus, there’s practical advice for parents worried about teens and social media, tips to create joyful habits, and guidance on validating your emotions.
Whether you’re feeling “meh” lately or want to support someone who seems outwardly fine but is struggling inside, this episode is packed with compassion, science, and actionable steps for anyone curious about mental health beyond the surface. Tune in for relatable stories, expert strategies, and a fresh perspective on finding happiness—one point of joy at a time.
Episode Highlights
00:00 Dr. Judith's Achievements in Mental Health
05:57 Pandemic Depression Realization
08:50 Overlooked High-Functioning Depression Issue
12:18 "Democratizing the Biopsychosocial Model"
15:49 "Risk Aversion vs. Financial Abundance"
17:21 Embracing Risk After Safe Paths
21:29 Avoidance through Constant Busyness
25:07 Healthy Emotional Expression Tips
28:41 Reconnecting with Core Values
32:39 Teen Life and Digital Socializing
33:54 Social Media Impact Reset Method
37:12 Mindful Social Media Plan
40:03 "Continue the Conversation"
More from Dr. Judith Joseph
High Functioning Book
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42:21
Ep 62 Unveiling the Secrets of Menopause and Longevity with Dr. Jessica Shepherd
In this episode of Save Yourself, I have the pleasure of hosting Dr. Jessica Shepherd, a renowned OBGYN with a passion for women's health and longevity. We dive into a range of fascinating topics, including the menopausal transition, the significance of hormone optimization, and how Dr. Shepherd's background in exercise physiology fuels her innovative approach to care.
We also explore her unique practice at Sanctum Med and Wellness, which offers a holistic blend of traditional and alternative medicine. Plus, you'll learn about her newly released book "Generation M" and her insightful take on managing midlife changes. Tune in for a vibrant conversation that empowers women to thrive through every stage of life.
Episode Highlights
00:00 Post-Reproductive Health Transitions
04:34 Rethinking Pre-Med Pathways
07:14 Sleep, Hormones, and Women's Health
12:06 Strength Training Patience and Progress
16:29 Holistic Health and Beauty Services
19:28 Understanding Midlife and Hormones
21:14 Layered Health Treatment Approach
23:55 Passion-Fueled, Well-Balanced Life
28:00 Final Chat & Farewell Notes
More from Dr. Jessica Shepherd
Instagram
jessicashepherdmd.com
Generation M
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30:49
Ep 61 Naveen Jain: Transforming Health with Precision Nutrition
In this episode of Save Yourself, we have a lively discussion featuring Naveen Jain, the entrepreneurial force behind Viome. Together we’re diving deep into the fascinating world of the gut microbiome and its significant role in our overall health.
Naveen shares insights into the power of personalized nutrition and how we can revolutionize the way we approach chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and depression. He challenges conventional beliefs about universally healthy foods, offers a glimpse into groundbreaking scientific advancements, and introduces Viome's approach to customized health solutions.
Tune in for an enlightening conversation that marries the latest in scientific research with practical advice for living a healthier life. Whether you're a nutrition enthusiast or simply seeking to optimize your well-being, this episode is a goldmine of information you won't want to miss!
Episode Highlights
00:00 Personalized Health: Understanding Chronic Inflammation
05:28 "Testing Complexity, Not Guesswork"
07:08 Comprehensive Health Biomarker Analysis
11:20 "Toothpaste: Oral Health Revolution"
16:17 Comprehensive Health Risk Analysis
17:25 Bi-Annual Microbial Activity Study
20:41 Oral Microbiome's Impact on Gut Health
25:56 "Precision in Nutrition & Stress"
27:50 Control and Acceptance Insights
31:03 Exploring Biome Testing Journey
33:54 Understanding Our Actions
More from Naveen Jain
Instagram
LinkedIn
Viome - Full Body Intelligence Test
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Dr. Amy Shah is a double board-certified MD and Nutritionist who is always looking for ways we can "save ourselves." The real needle-mover of personal development is accepting the reality, no one is coming to save you. Don't panic, Dr. Amy believes everyone has the ability to single-handedly transform their own health, mindset, career and life. This podcast was created to equip you with the necessary tools for shifting your approach from helpless to hero.