Ep.64: Everything You Need to Know About GLP-1 Medications at Midlife with Amy Wrenn, NP
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If you’ve been hearing all the buzz about GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, or Zepbound, and you’re wondering if they could be the right fit for you at midlife, this is the episode to press play on. We brought on nurse practitioner and health optimization expert Amy Wrenn to demystify what GLP-1s actually are, how they work, who they’re for, and what you really need to know about taking them during perimenopause and menopause. Amy is passionate, informed, and totally relatable—she cuts through the hype to bring clarity to a topic that’s been wrapped in confusion and judgment.
In this conversation, we get real about our own experiences, bust some myths, talk side effects (yep, we go there), and explore the broader context of hormone therapy, weight gain, metabolic dysfunction, and the importance of doing what works for your individual body and life. Whether you’re curious, cautious, or already on a GLP-1, this is a must-listen packed with valuable insights.
Episode Highlights:
[0:00] - Welcoming Amy Wrenn and kicking off our deep dive into GLP-1s
[3:10] - What exactly are GLP-1s, and how do they work in your body?
[5:00] - Understanding insulin resistance, perimenopause, and why midlife changes everything
[6:57] - Real-life examples of "metabolic mayhem" that hits out of nowhere
[8:03] - Challenging the lazy stereotype: GLP-1s are not a quick fix
[10:08] - The far-reaching benefits: inflammation, PCOS, cognitive health, and more
[12:10] - Social media hype vs. safe medical prescribing—know the difference
[13:46] - Compounded medications vs. name-brand prescriptions: what to watch for
[17:33] - Who qualifies for GLP-1s, and what do providers look for?
[20:43] - It's not about skinny—it's about healthy: the real goal of treatment
[22:34] - Common side effects: what to expect and how to manage them
[25:25] - Nutrition matters: prioritizing protein, avoiding high-fat traps
[26:38] - Surprising benefits: reduced alcohol cravings, better food boundaries
[28:12] - Coming off GLP-1s: what it looks like, and when it’s okay to stay on
[31:48] - Does your body adapt over time? Amy explains habituation and dosing
[33:32] - The power trio: GLP-1s, HRT, and resistance training
[36:08] - Hormone therapy explained: symptom relief vs. long-term prevention
[40:51] - Why we’re not getting this info from our doctors—and how to change that
[42:24] - Where to follow Amy and keep learning more
Links & Resources
Follow Amy Wrenn, NP on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/np_wrenn
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