Best Brendan McCarthy Podcasts (2025)

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What We’re Learning About TRT and Breast Cancer Risk 23:12

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10h ago23:12

23:12

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! In this episode, he dives deep into the powerful potential, and the necessary precautions, of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in women. He shares why this once-taboo treatment is gaining traction, how it may reduce the risk of breast cancer by up to 50%, and why lab testing and clinical nuanc…

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Episode 176: Ilana Peña (Diary of a Future President) and Anne Sundell (writer and comedian) Interview 1:13:16

3h ago1:13:16

1:13:16

Episode 176: Ilana Peña (Diary of a Future President) and Anne Sundell (writer and comedian) Interview In this month’s after-show interview, Andrew chats with Ilana Peña (Diary of a Future President) and Anne Sundell (writer and comedian) about their pilot How to Get Over Bryan Byers. The pair share the real-life inspiration behind the show — yes, …

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Episode 175: How To Get Over Bryan Byers Written by Ilana Peña & Anne Sundell 54:11

7d ago54:11

54:11

Episode 175: How To Get Over Bryan Byers Written by Ilana Peña & Anne Sundell (Recorded Live at the Elysian Theater) This month on Dead Pilots Society, we’re bringing you How To Get Over Bryan Byers, a hilarious comedy pilot from Ilana Peña (Diary of a Future President) and Anne Sundell (writer and comedian). The show follows two former enemies, An…

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Why I Always Run Labs Before Hormone Therapy: The Real Risks of Skipping FSH 21:12

7d ago21:12

21:12

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! In this deeply personal episode, he shares why lab work—especially testing FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone)—is non-negotiable in hormone replacement therapy. This is not about gatekeeping. It’s about understanding. It’s about caring. Dr. McCarthy recounts a formative memory of meeting a woman who …

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Why Perimenopausal Hormone Labs Do Matter — Debunking Dangerous Myths 30:27

14d ago30:27

30:27

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! In this video, Dr. Brendan McCarthy breaks down common misconceptions about hormone testing and treatment during perimenopause — including why many influencers and physicians get it wrong. From the misuse of expensive boutique tests like the Dutch test, to the dangers of suppressive hormone therapie…

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Should You Get HRT Without Lab Work? Why I Always Test First 18:15

21d ago18:15

18:15

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! Can you start hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or bioidentical hormones without lab testing? Technically—yes. But should you? In this episode, Dr. Brendan McCarthy, Chief Medical Officer of Protea Medical Center, shares his medical perspective on why skipping labs could put your health at risk. Res…

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Because of Winn Dixie by Kate DiCamillo 48:24

24d ago48:24

48:24

In this episode, Jordan and Brendan discuss the role of college professors in book enjoyment, the profundity of childlike faith, the need for unconditional connection, the loneliness and heartache of the world, the power of simple acts of kindness, feelings too big for our bodies, and the sweet tartness of a Florida staple. What We’re Reading: Caho…

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Episode 174: Austen Earl Interview (Letters to Beyoncé, Up All Night, The Millers, Happy Together) 47:34

28d ago47:34

47:34

Episode 174: Austen Earl Interview (Letters to Beyoncé, Up All Night, The Millers, Happy Together) In this after-show interview, Andrew talks with writer/producer Austen Earl about his pilot Letters to Beyoncé, inspired by his own mom. Austen shares how he went from a tiny town in Vermont to a Hollywood writing career—with a surprising assist from …

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Testosterone in Women: Dosing, Labs & What Most Doctors Miss 27:03

28d ago27:03

27:03

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! This episode takes you deep into the real-world practice of prescribing testosterone therapy for women. This is not a high-level overview—this is a nuts and bolts breakdown: ✅ Who it's for ✅ How it's dosed ✅ What labs to run ✅ What delivery methods are safest ✅ Why it's often done wrong—and how to g…

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Episode 173: Letters to Beyoncé written by Austen Earl (Up All Night, The Millers, Happy Together) 53:44

1M ago53:44

53:44

Episode 173: Letters to Beyoncé written by Austin Earl (Up All Night, The Millers, Happy Together) In this episode of Dead Pilots Society, we bring you a heartfelt and hilarious pilot from Austen Earl (Up All Night, The Millers, Happy Together, About My Father). The script, Letters to Beyoncé, tells the story of a middle-aged schoolteacher in rural…

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The Truth About Testosterone in Women: What Your Doctor May Not Be Telling You 21:50

1M ago21:50

21:50

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! In this episode we dive deep into one of the most misunderstood and debated topics in hormone health: testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) for women. You may have heard horror stories—or glowing reviews. But what’s the truth? Dr. McCarthy discusses: - Why testosterone matters for women’s health - …

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Testosterone Therapy for Women: Breaking the Stigma 17:38

1M ago17:38

17:38

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! Today’s episode is all about testosterone therapy in women—a topic that’s often misunderstood, highly debated, and rarely taught in depth. I’m sharing what I’ve learned over my years of clinical experience, how I approach testosterone use in women safely, and why the conversation around it needs to …

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PRL BOOK CLUB - Melanesia: Travels in Black Oceania by Hamish McDonald 44:27

2M ago44:27

44:27

It's a real treat to have the OG of Australian journalists with a penchant for foreign affairs named Hamish McDonald, Hamish McDonald on the pod to discuss his fascinating new book Melanesia: Travels in Black Oceania. This is a brilliant mix of travelogue, history and political analysis of a under analysed and misunderstood region. The books journe…

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Progesterone Delivery Methods Explained: How It Actually Works in Your Body 30:47

2M ago30:47

30:47

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! Explore how progesterone travels through the body depending on the method of delivery—oral, transdermal, or injection. Dr. McCarthy explains why certain forms may not be effective for all patients and discusses how the body metabolizes progesterone, influencing its therapeutic impact. This episode i…

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The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien 45:41

2M ago45:41

45:41

In this episode, Jordan and Brendan travel to Middle Earth to discuss the role of the common man in the fight against evil, worlds born from words, the emboldening of virtue, the imminent approach of glory, the purpose of silly hobbit songs, and what makes a story timeless. Other Mentions: Beowulf Next episode we will be discussing The Fellowship o…

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Answering Your Hormone Questions: Progesterone Reactions, MTHFR, Estrogen Detox & More 33:35

2M ago33:35

33:35

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! Today’s episode is all about answering YOUR submitted questions — real concerns from real women — about hormone therapy, reverse responses to progesterone, MTHFR, estrogen detoxification, and more. This episode is packed with insights to help you better understand your body and your options. Dr. Bre…

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Episode 172: Lauren Herstik Interview (American Vandal, Pearson) 1:10:44

2M ago1:10:44

1:10:44

In this after-show episode of Dead Pilot Society, we're joined by writer Lauren Herstik, who brought us Camp Friends — a pilot that's had more lives (and deaths) than most scripts could dream of. This one has everything: clown camp trauma, projectile vomit over a salad bar, surrealist puberty freakouts, and a long, winding journey through the chaot…

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Progesterone, Testosterone & HRT Questions You’re Afraid to Ask 42:12

2M ago42:12

42:12

Welcome to the podcast! In this deeply personal Q&A episode, Dr. Brendan McCarthy—Chief Medical Officer at Protea Medical Center—responds to your most powerful and vulnerable questions about hormone replacement therapy, including: - Why some women reverse-respond to progesterone - What to do when testosterone creams trigger migraines - How to safel…

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Episode 171: Camp Friends Written by Lauren Herstik (American Vandal, Pearson) 44:42

2M ago44:42

44:42

This month, we have a fantastic dead pilot, Camp Friends, written by Lauren Herstik. You may know Lauren as a writer on American Vandal and Pearson. Camp Friends is about best friends who spend every summer at Camp Wigeon. This is their CIT (counselor-in-training) year, the last before becoming counselors, and the last chance to have the best summe…

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When Progesterone Backfires: Understanding Reverse Responders 16:14

2M ago16:14

16:14

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! Welcome to Part 3. In this episode, Dr. McCarthy dives deep into the complex world of reverse responders—women who experience increased anxiety or worsened symptoms from progesterone instead of the calming effects it typically provides. If you’ve felt forgotten or unsupported in your hormone journey…

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When Progesterone Backfires: The Hidden Link Between Hormones, Anxiety & Trauma 16:43

3M ago16:43

16:43

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! While progesterone is often prescribed for its calming and hormone-balancing effects, some women experience the exact opposite—increased anxiety, depression, and emotional instability. This phenomenon, known as reverse responding, is more common than many realize. In this episode we explore: The neu…

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All The Pretty Horses by Cormac McCarthy 45:24

3M ago45:24

45:24

In this episode, Jordan and Brendan discuss the “If Only” feeling, beauty in the midst of bleakness, the call to adventure, the cost of idealism, director’s cut conspiracies, and the idiocy of semicolons. What We’re Reading: Letters to a Diminished Church by Dorothy L. Sayers Present Concerns: Journalistic Essays by C.S. Lewis Perelandra by C.S. Le…

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Why Progesterone Doesn’t Work for Everyone 18:02

3M ago18:02

18:02

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! Today he addresses a topic many women have been waiting to hear more about: why some people don't tolerate progesterone well. Often overlooked in both conventional and alternative medicine, "reverse responders" experience heightened anxiety, insomnia, or mood shifts when taking progesterone — a reac…

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PRL 31 March 2025 - The Art of Commentary with Quentin Hull 54:36

3M ago54:36

54:36

ABC commentary doyen, Quentin Hull, joins the pod to discuss the art of commentary. This curious artform is a soundtrack to so many of our lives. Let's get under the hood to better understand how good Rugby League commentary is made, the ins and outs of radio commentary, how TV commentary differs, and the challenges of switching between sports. Plu…

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Migraine Series Q&A 30:36

3M ago30:36

30:36

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! In this episode we're wrapping up our migraine series by answering your most frequently asked questions. Dr. Brendan McCarthy, Chief Medical Officer at Protea Medical Center, dives deep into the science behind progesterone, its effects on the brain, and why some people experience negative reactions.…

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Episode 170: Riki Lindhome and Natasha Leggero Interview (Another Period) 1:06:25

3M ago1:06:25

1:06:25

This is the After Show episode for Buffalo Tens featuring Andrew’s interview with Riki Lindhome and Natasha Leggero (Another Period). It’s also our last episode of MaxFunDrive 2025. If you haven’t joined, boosted or upgraded yet, what are you waiting for?! You’re reading the show notes! You’re obviously a fan! Go to maximum fun.org/join right now! …

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Episode: 169: Buffalo Tens Episode 2 by Riki Lindhome and Natasha Leggero (Another Period) 33:04

3M ago33:04

33:04

MaxFunDrive 2025 continues with a second episode of Buffalo Tens from Riki Lindhome and Natasha Leggero (Another Period). Fox liked this show about two Matchmakers from Hell in Buffalo, New York enough to order a second episode from Riki and Natasha. And then they passed, but we have revived it and are bringing it to you here!Remember, this is the …

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Episode 168: Buffalo Tens Episode 1 by Riki Lindhome and Natasha Leggero (Another Period) 36:23

3M ago36:23

36:23

You can support Dead Pilots Society and get access to all of our bonus content, and the bonus content from every other Maximum Fun show, by becoming a member at maximumfun.org/join. And if you're already a member, first of all - thank you!, you can upgrade or boost your membership and get some cool gifts. Go to maximumfun.org/join now!…

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Triptans and Beyond: Understanding the True Causes of Migraines 20:08

3M ago20:08

20:08

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! In this episode, we dive into the complexities of migraines, particularly the role of triptans in treating them. Dr. McCarthy addresses a common misconception about migraine pathophysiology, discusses the importance of lifestyle and genetic factors, and explains why understanding the root causes of …

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Unlocking the Root Cause of Migraines: The Role of Progesterone and GABA 21:24

3M ago21:24

21:24

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! In this episode we dive deep into the root causes of migraines in women, with a focus on the powerful role of progesterone and the GABA pathway. Learn why simply treating symptoms with medication isn’t enough and how understanding hormone balance can lead to long-term relief. This is part two of our…

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The Role of Estrogen in Migraines: Understanding the Link & Treatment Options 21:24

4M ago21:24

21:24

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! In this episode we go over the connection between estrogen and migraines. He explores how hormone fluctuations can trigger migraines, the role of serotonin, and how proper medical testing can lead to better treatment options. Dr. McCarthy also addresses common failures in traditional medicine, the i…

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Understanding Headaches 13:34

4M ago13:34

13:34

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! In this episode we dive into headaches—particularly how women suffer from them more frequently than men. If you’ve been dealing with headaches that no one seems to understand, you’re not alone. This series is designed to offer insight and actionable advice, empowering you with the information you ne…

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The Gilded Six-Bits by Zora Neale Hurston 34:32

4M ago34:32

34:32

In this episode, Jordan and Brendan discuss the scandal of grace, beautifully hyperlinked symbolism, the cosmic story arc, the nature of true value, the power of chocolate kisses, and the polite consumption of buttermilk. What We’re Reading: Stoner by John Williams The Bridge of San Luis Rey by Thornton Wilder The Iliad by Homer Other Mentions: Psa…

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Episode 167: John Enbom Interview(Party Down, Veronica Mars) 1:17:37

4M ago1:17:37

1:17:37

We have another live show coming up soon. It’s on Sunday March 16th at 2:00 and at the Elysian Theater in Los Angeles, and we will be reading not one but two episodes of a hilarious dead pilot or I guess a dead show, written by and starring the incredible Riki Lindhome and Natasha Leggero. Riki and Natasha co-created and starred in the Comedy Centr…

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Your Voice Matters—Let’s Talk Menopause 30:13

4M ago30:13

30:13

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy, Chief Medical Officer of Protea Medical Center in Tempe, Arizona. Your feedback and comments shape the discussions we have here—because your voice matters. In this episode, Dr. McCarthy addresses some of the most common questions and misconceptions about menopause and hormone replacement therapy (HR…

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Episode 166: Rich Dan Poor Dan written by John Enbom (Party Down, Veronica Mars)) 45:42

4M ago45:42

45:42

John also wrote on Veronica Mars, iZombie, and Benched. This pilot has that unique Enbom touch. Rich Dan, Poor Dan was recorded live in front of an audience at the Elysian Theatre in Los Angeles. Our cast was Ryan Hansen (Party Down) as Danny, Martin Starr (Party Down, Silicon Valley) as Daniel, Zoe Chao (Party Down) as Marnie, Olivia Liang (Kung F…

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Menopause & Hormone Therapy: Treatment Pt. 2 16:52

4M ago16:52

16:52

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! We continue our menopause series as we dive into the treatment segment! Struggling with menopause symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, or sleep issues? Hormone therapy (HRT) could be the solution! In this video, we break down how hormone treatment works, its benefits, risks, and who it’s best for…

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Menopause & Hormone Therapy: Treatment Pt. 1 14:36

4M ago14:36

14:36

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! We continue our menopause series as we dive into the treatment segment! Struggling with menopause symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, or sleep issues? Hormone therapy (HRT) could be the solution! In this video, we break down how hormone treatment works, its benefits, risks, and who it’s best for…

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The Book Thief by Markus Zusak 36:12

5M ago36:12

36:12

In this episode, Jordan and Brendan discuss the duality of man, the gamble of letting Death narrate your story, the power of words to bring life or death, picking a good Pilsner, and cologne ads. What we’re reading: All the King’s Men by Robert Penn Warren The Great Passion by James Runcie How God Became King by N.T. Wright Recapturing the Wonder b…

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How to Recognize the Signs of Menopause: Symptoms & Diagnosis Explained 25:09

5M ago25:09

25:09

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! Are you experiencing changes in your body and wondering if it might be menopause? I’ll guide you through the key signs and symptoms of menopause, the role of hormonal changes, lab values and how to approach an accurate diagnosis. Understanding your body is the first step to managing this transition …

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Episode 165: Joe Port and Joe Wiseman Interview Rerun (Ghosts, The Office, New Girl)(Eternally Yours Aftershow) 50:04

5M ago50:04

50:04

In this interview we talk about Joe and Joe’s first show business jobs, including the insane, no-longer existent job of Night PA, delivering scripts in the wee hours of the night. They talk about how far having a great attitude can take you in this business, the lessons they’ve learned through their long careers and what they look for in people whe…

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Menopause Explained: An Introduction to Understanding the Journey 9:31

5M ago9:31

9:31

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! In this video, I'm giving a brief overview of what women experience during menopause and trying to find proper treatment. From common symptoms to the changes your body goes through, this is the first step in understanding this natural phase of life. Stay tuned for more episodes where we’ll dive deep…

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Why Is Treating Autoimmune Diseases So Challenging? 5:41

5M ago5:41

5:41

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! Autoimmune diseases can be complex and unpredictable, making treatment a significant challenge. From managing symptoms to addressing root causes, we uncover the hurdles in combating these conditions. How doctors should truly be helping YOU. Join me as we shed light on this crucial topic. Don’t forge…

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Episode 164: Eternally Yours written by Joe Port & Joe Wiseman (Ghosts, The Office, New Girl) 44:56

5M ago44:56

44:56

Things have been a little tough in Los Angeles this month, so we are bringing you our first ever Dead Pilots Society Rerun. This is one of our all-time favorite episodes. From way back in 2020, it's Eternally Yours from Joe Port & Joe Wiseman (Ghosts, The Office, New Girl), about a family of normal looking but emotionally closed off, stuck-together…

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Answering YOUR Questions About PMS | Everything You Need to Know! (Part 4) 27:48

5M ago27:48

27:48

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! Got questions about PMS? I'm here to help! In this Q&A, we’re going over the most common (and some not-so-common) questions from our viewers about premenstrual syndrome during this series. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more content like this! Dr. Brendan McCarthy founded Protea Me…

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Balancing Hormones to Treat PMS: Effective Strategies Explained! (Part 3) 27:16

6M ago27:16

27:16

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! This episode brings you Part 3, the treatment segment. Hormonal imbalances might be the key to understanding and managing them effectively. In this video, we explore how hormonal treatments can help alleviate common PMS symptoms like mood swings, bloating, and fatigue. Learn about the types of hormo…

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The Dead by James Joyce 51:04

6M ago51:04

51:04

In this episode, Jordan and Brendan discuss our thought-tormented age, early 20th century Irish politics, the polarizing Modernist legacy of James Joyce, the magic of Thin Places, the tension between a blaze of passion and a life of long fidelity, and whether or not it’s ok to bake a little baby Jesus into your King Cake for this year’s Epiphany Fe…

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Is It PMS or Something Else? Diagnosing PMS Symptoms (Part 2) 34:23

6M ago34:23

34:23

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! Are you experiencing mood swings, bloating, fatigue, or irritability and wondering if it's PMS — or something more? In this video, I break down the symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and how to identify it accurately. As a hormone replacement specialist, I’ll explain how your hormones fluctuate…

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Understanding PMS: An Intro to Symptoms, Causes, and Management (Introduction, Part 1) 23:54

6M ago23:54

23:54

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! In this video, we dive into everything you need to know about PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome). An introduction into the a 4 part series. 1. Introduction 2. Diagnosis 3. Treatment 4. Q&A Whether you're experiencing PMS or want to better understand it, this introduction will provide helpful insights and t…

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The Truth About Prostate Cancer & Testosterone: What Every Man Needs to Know 8:28

6M ago8:28

8:28

Welcome to the podcast with Dr. Brendan McCarthy! Are testosterone and prostate cancer connected? In this video, we dive into the science and myths surrounding testosterone therapy and its potential impact on prostate health. Learn what research really says about testosterone levels, prostate cancer risks, and what every man should know to make inf…