In this empowering episode of Keeping Abreast , Dr. Jenn Simmons welcomes bestselling author and women’s-hormone expert Dr. Mariza Snyder for a candid conversation about perimenopause—the most misunderstood phase in women’s health . Drawing on 17 years in practice and her own journey through postpartum, Hashimoto’s, and perimenopause, Dr. Snyder unpacks what really happens when estrogen and progesterone begin to decline—and why this “zone of opportunity” is every woman’s call to action. Together, she and Dr. Jenn break down the cultural myths, medical gaslighting, and scientific blind spots that leave millions of women unheard. They discuss brain fog, mood shifts, metabolic changes, and why bioidentical hormone therapy—when properly prescribed—can protect the brain, heart, and bones. It’s an honest, hopeful roadmap for women to reclaim their vitality, advocate for better care, and navigate midlife with confidence and clarity. ✨ Don’t miss Dr. Mariza Snyder’s new book, The Perimenopause Revolution , available now for pre-order at drmariza.com/book and officially releasing October 21, 2025 . 💬 If this episode resonates, please rate, review, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen. In This Episode, You Will Learn: Why perimenopause is the zone of opportunity —not the beginning of decline How declining estrogen and progesterone affect the brain, metabolism, and mood Why women often know more than their providers—and what to do about it How to approach hormone therapy safely and individually What lifestyle pillars best support women in midlife Why medical training must change to include hormone education The role of advocacy, community, and self-education in women’s health Episode Timeline Highlights: 02:19 Why women were taught to “suffer in silence” 05:05 Her mother’s struggles and the moment that changed everything 08:58 Recognizing perimenopause symptoms and hormonal shifts 12:20 Estrogen as the brain’s CEO—how hormones drive every system 17:27 Silent shifts: heart, metabolism, and bone health in midlife 22:50 Virtual clinics, cookie-cutter care & the need for education 26:28 Why “cleanse your way out of it” messaging is harmful 31:39 Top doctors leading the charge on safe HRT 37:45 What women can do today to advocate for themselves 48:40 Pregnancy risk myths & bioidentical hormones 55:00 How to approach replacement therapy in real life 01:04:38 Dr. Jenn’s own menopause story & medical blind spots 01:09:18 Is it ever too late for HRT? Research says no To talk to a member of Dr. Jenn's team and learn more about working privately with RHMD, visit: https://jennsimmons.simplero.com/page/377266?kuid=327aca17-5135-44cf-9210-c0b77a56e26d&kref=vOKy0sAiorrK To get your copy of Dr. Jenn's book, The Smart Woman's Guide to Breast Cancer, visit: https://tinyurl.com/SmartWomansBreastCancerGuide To purchase the auria breast cancer screening test go here https://auria.care/ and use the code DRJENN20 for 20% Off. Connect with Dr. Jenn: Website: https://www.realhealthmd.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrJennSimmons Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjennsimmons/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@dr.jennsimmons
