The Natalie Tysdal Podcast

Feeling stuck between "normal" lab results and not feeling like yourself? You are not alone. Hormone health in midlife is one of the biggest challenges women face, yet answers and solutions remain confusing and often out of reach. If you have ever wondered why your bloodwork says you are fine but you still feel exhausted, foggy, or not quite right, this episode is for you. Walk away with clarity on the real issues behind hormone imbalance, why standard medical care might not be enough, and what it truly means to find balance.
Hormone shifts touch every part of our lives as women, from sleep and energy to mood, memory, and bone health. But the way hormones are measured and treated often leaves women underserved or misinformed, sometimes for years. In this conversation, Dr. Mike Fortunato shares straight answers from his experience as a physician who transitioned from conventional anesthesiology into hormone optimization after facing his own health struggles. With plain language and an evidence-focused approach, Dr. Fortunato addresses why so many women are dissatisfied with the usual "your labs are normal" explanation and what options exist for personalized care.
Why typical lab "normal ranges" do not always reflect true hormone health for women in midlife

The hidden reasons you might still feel fatigued, anxious, or unwell, even with reassuring test results

The impact of endocrine disrupting chemicals on women's health and why hormones are changing across generations

Clear differences between synthetic and bioidentical hormones, and how each can affect safety and results

What to ask your doctor (and how to recognize if you are getting the right kind of prevention-focused support)

The practical realities of finding expert care outside the typical insurance model, including telemedicine options

If you are navigating midlife changes and feeling uneasy about the advice you are getting, you are not imagining things. Having information you can trust, delivered with respect for your lived experience, is a powerful first step. This episode offers validation and practical insight for women who want real solutions, not just reassurance.
More info and links:
https://www.natalietysdal.com/post/feel-awful-perimenopause
SUPPORT THIS PODCAST
The businesses I trust actually make this podcast possible. If you use any of these, you're supporting the show and getting something I genuinely use and recommend.
For gut health and probiotics: BioTiQuest makes probiotics I trust. Use code NATALIETYSDAL for a discount.
Seeking Health has high-quality supplements for managing stress and supporting your system. Use code NATALIE10.
Auro Wellness has a glutathione formula I recommend when women are doing serious detox work.
For energy and focus: ENERGYbits are spirulina tablets that are a fast, clean energy boost. Use code NatalieTysdal.
Amino Club has peptides if you're interested in that space. Use code NatalieT
For recovery and movement: Block Therapy fascia tools help with mobility and tension relief. Get your kit through the link in the show notes. Kineon makes red light therapy devices that the research actually backs up. Use code NatalieT.
PRN Vision has eye care supplements and products that work. Amare makes science-backed wellness products I recommend, especially their mental health line.
Function Health makes getting serious bloodwork and health testing actually easy and affordable. 
Everything I recommend here, I use myself. None of this replaces medical care or sound advice from your doctor. But if you're ready to take your health seriously, these are tools that have made a real difference for me and for listeners. And yes, when you use these links, you're directly supporting the show.
🎙️ Listen now and take the next step toward feeling your best.
📅 New episodes drop every Monday—subscribe for weekly conversations that support women in midlife.
DISCLAIMER:
Natalie Tysdal is a health journalist, not a licensed medical professional. The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

If you have ever wondered if your glass of wine at night is just a way to unwind, or if it is become a habit you have less control over than you thought, you are not alone. Many high-achieving midlife women juggle endless responsibilities and turn to alcohol as a tool for relief, even as they question whether their relationship with drinking still works for them. This episode explores the real reasons behind the push-pull with alcohol and offers a grounded path toward a healthier, more self-compassionate approach to mindful drinking.
Navigating midlife brings changes in hormones, identity, and the daily demands that make slowing down difficult. Journalist Natalie Tysdal sits down with Colleen Freeland, founder of Emotional Sobriety Coaching and host of the Not About the Alcohol podcast, who draws on her own lived experience as a high-functioning, daily drinker. Colleen challenges traditional narratives around alcohol and shares why the key to change is not about labels or willpower, but about getting upstream of the habit. Her practical, science-informed approach meets women exactly where they are, with respect for the complexity of midlife and a deep understanding of high achievers.
What you will learn:
Why many high-functioning women fall into the "hamster wheel" trap of using alcohol to relax, and how this shapes habits over time

How to recognize the difference between drinking for pleasure and drinking to cope, and why that distinction matters for your brain and well-being

The real meaning of "mindful drinking," and simple exercises for shifting your default habits without shame or rigidity

Practical strategies like the Delay, Don't Deny method that help you rewire routines gently and sustainably

Insight into setting healthy boundaries for yourself and in relationships when a partner's drinking patterns affect you

How to start tuning back in to your real needs, especially if you have spent years putting yourself last

For women in midlife, this episode brings a clear, non-judgmental look at alcohol through the lens of self-care, neuroscience, and honest storytelling. If you have ever felt the tension between wanting to let loose and wanting to feel in control, this conversation offers both validation and practical tools to help you feel more at home in your own life, on your own terms.
https://emotionalsobrietycoaching.com
https://www.natalietysdal.com
https://www.instagram.com/ntysdal
https://www.tiktok.com/@ntysdal
https://www.facebook.com/NatalieTysdal
SUPPORT THIS PODCAST
The businesses I trust actually make this podcast possible. If you use any of these, you're supporting the show and getting something I genuinely use and recommend.
For gut health and probiotics: BioTiQuest makes probiotics I trust. Use code NATALIETYSDAL for a discount.
Seeking Health has high-quality supplements for managing stress and supporting your system. Use code NATALIE10.
Auro Wellness has a glutathione formula I recommend when women are doing serious detox work.
For energy and focus: ENERGYbits are spirulina tablets that are a fast, clean energy boost. Use code NatalieTysdal.
Amino Club has peptides if you're interested in that space. Use code NatalieT
For recovery and movement: Block Therapy fascia tools help with mobility and tension relief. Get your kit through the link in the show notes. Kineon makes red light therapy devices that the research actually backs up. Use code NatalieT.
PRN Vision has eye care supplements and products that work. Amare makes science-backed wellness products I recommend, especially their mental health line.
Function Health makes getting serious bloodwork and health testing actually easy and affordable. 
Everything I recommend here, I use myself. None of this replaces medical care or sound advice from your doctor. But if you're ready to take your health seriously, these are tools that have made a real difference for me and for listeners. And yes, when you use these links, you're directly supporting the show.
🎙️ Listen now and take the next step toward feeling your best.
📅 New episodes drop every Monday—subscribe for weekly conversations that support women in midlife.
DISCLAIMER:
Natalie Tysdal is a health journalist, not a licensed medical professional. The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Natalie Tysdal is a health journalist, not a licensed medical professional. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Is it possible to age well while still living fully, rather than giving in to confusing and conflicting health advice? For women in midlife, practical, trustworthy guidance on hormones, metabolism, and longevity feels more essential than ever. This episode explores what really works to support your health as you navigate perimenopause, menopause, and the changes that come with this life stage, with a close look at peptides and regenerative medicine.
If you are hearing about peptides, stem cells, and innovative treatments for inflammation, weight management, or energy, but are unsure what is safe and what truly helps, you're not alone. Dr. Jeff, a neurological surgeon and expert in regenerative and anti-aging medicine, joins Natalie for a clear, journalistic look at the science, safety, and real-world benefits behind these newer therapies. With experience rooted in evidence and concern for women's lived realities, Dr. Jeff shares what he sees working now for women in midlife, and the questions everyone should ask before trying new approaches.
What you'll learn:
Which lifestyle factors play a proven role in aging well, and how to think strategically about exercise, sleep, and stress
What peptides are, how they work in the body, and where they fit for women in their 40s, 50s, and 60s
How to weigh the risks and benefits of peptide therapies, including GLP-1 medications like semaglutide, and why medical supervision matters
How to evaluate online sources and navigate the confusing supplement market
The role of muscle, bone, and mitochondrial health in midlife longevity
Strategies for deciding if regenerative or peptide therapies make sense for your unique situation
Aging is both physical and emotional. This conversation avoids hype and instead offers clear, actionable, and grounded advice so you can feel informed about options as science evolves. You'll come away with a firmer sense of what's real, what's probably not, and how to make confident, evidence-based decisions for your own well-being.
More Info: https://www.natalietysdal.com/post/peptides-menopause-weight-gain
Dr. Jeff Gross Website: https://recellebrate.com
Natalie's Website: https://www.natalietysdal.com
https://www.instagram.com/ntysdal
https://www.tiktok.com/@ntysdal
https://www.facebook.com/NatalieTysdal
🎙️ Listen now and take the next step toward feeling your best.
📅 New episodes drop every Monday, subscribe for weekly conversations that support women in midlife.
DISCLAIMER:
Natalie Tysdal is a health journalist, not a licensed medical professional. The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Natalie Tysdal is a health journalist, not a licensed medical professional. This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

So many midlife women are left searching for real answers about perimenopause. With confusing symptoms and mixed messages online, how do you know what is normal, what matters, and what is truly happening in your body? Get grounded, research-based clarity on perimenopause, and learn how to separate evidence from the overwhelming noise.
Full show notes, key takeaways, and transcript.
Many women in their 30s, 40s, and 50s struggle to get clear information or diagnosis when perimenopause symptoms start showing up. Doctors may miss the signs or dismiss concerns, leaving you feeling alone or uncertain about what is actually happening. As a journalist with decades of experience making complex topics understandable, Natalie takes a clear-eyed look at what perimenopause really is, how common misdiagnosis happens, and what research actually shows women can do to navigate this transition.
What you'll learn:
The most common (and overlooked) symptoms of perimenopause and why so many women are misdiagnosed
The real timeline for perimenopause and why it can start earlier than many expect
How to track your symptoms and cycles so you can get meaningful help from your doctor
What current research shows about hormones, sleep, metabolism, mood changes, and weight during perimenopause
Why online health advice often misses real-life nuance for women in midlife
You deserve reliable information and practical guidance during one of the most significant health transitions of your life. This episode brings clarity, validation, and concrete next steps—without hype, fear, or empty promises. Listen for honest answers, reassurance, and the tools you need to feel empowered about your health.
https://www.natalietysdal.com
https://www.instagram.com/ntysdal
https://www.tiktok.com/@ntysdal
https://www.facebook.com/NatalieTysdal
🎙️ Listen now and take the next step toward feeling your best.
📅 New episodes drop every Monday, subscribe for weekly conversations that support women in midlife.
DISCLAIMER:
Natalie Tysdal is a health journalist, not a licensed medical professional. The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Many midlife women love the outdoors but struggle to balance sun exposure with protecting their skin's health and appearance. Is it possible to enjoy the sun without putting our skin or long-term wellbeing at risk? Get clear, science-based answers about sunscreen, skin aging, and what truly matters when choosing products for yourself and your family.
Dermatology and sun care have seen a wave of confusing trends, myths, and marketing claims, especially around "natural" or "mineral" sunscreens. Pediatrician, inventor, and skin health expert Mark Mitchnick brings decades of hands-on experience, from creating transparent zinc oxide (the active ingredient behind most modern mineral sunscreens) to launching his own family's trusted brand. Mark's unique blend of medical knowledge and transparent product development offers the balanced, evidence-based information midlife women deserve.
What you'll learn:
How to gauge when sunscreen is actually necessary and when you might not need it
The real differences between mineral and chemical sunscreens, plus what "broad spectrum" means for your skin's health
Why ingredient labels, marketing claims, and SPF numbers can mislead even on "doctor recommended" brands
The truth about sprays, powders, and various sunscreen delivery methods (including what works best for active families)
How to model healthy sun habits at midlife and set the tone for your family, without fear or perfectionism
Skin health in midlife goes beyond wrinkle prevention it's about maintaining confidence, minimizing unnecessary worry, and making informed choices that support both your health and your lifestyle. This conversation demystifies sunscreen so you can cut through the hype, protect your skin, and spend more time outdoors with trust and ease.
getburnd.com (use code NT15 for 15% off)
natalietysdal.com
https://www.instagram.com/ntysdal
https://www.tiktok.com/@ntysdal
https://www.facebook.com/NatalieTysdal
🎙️ Listen now and take the next step toward feeling your best.
📅 New episodes drop every Monday subscribe for weekly conversations that support women in midlife.
DISCLAIMER:
Natalie Tysdal is a health journalist, not a licensed medical professional. The information in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.