About this episode
We dive into the true science and strategy behind aging with power. We’re busting myths about menopause, metabolism, and muscle, bone and talking strategy for women over 40 who want strength without burnout. Know how to prevent the physical “outages” that so often follow menopause, injury, or hormonal upheaval. Reclaim control without burning out!! If you’re ready to redefine what aging looks and feels like, this conversation is your roadmap to aging with power—and joy. My Guest: Dr. Vonda Wright is a double-board certified orthopedic surgeon and internationally recognized authority on human performance, longevity, and women's health. The founding director of the Performance and Research Initiative for Masters Athletes (PRIMA), she has served as a physician for athletes at the University of Pittsburgh, Georgia State, the Pittsburgh and Atlanta Ballet, World Rugby, and the PGA. A highly sought after media expert, she has been featured on the Diary of a CEO, Jay Shetty, and Mel Robbins podcasts as well as the Today show, the Dr. Oz show, and in top publications including The New York Times, USA Today, and the Observer. She has authored five books, including Fitness After 40 and Guide to THRIVE. She lives with her husband, a retired two-time Stanley Cup champion, near Orlando, Florida. Questions We Answer About Aging with Power: [00:06:24] How did your personal menopause experience shape your clinical and personal mission? [00:10:12] Most women listening are hard-driving, get-it-done, but wonder, WTH happened here. Was it like that for you? [00:16:34] What do you see for the future of medicine and fitness co-existing with diseases not only osteoporosis and sarcopenia but cancer, heart disease, diabetes, etc.? [00:22:53] Why are there doctors telling women they can’t gain bone density after 30. What are the science-backed exercise strategies for aging with power, compared to online misinformation and was recommended in the 90s? [00:24:36] How much of your work is dedicated to educating physicians about updated science? [00:26:25] What are your thoughts on HRT for muscle and bone density? [00:32:47] How can we help under-muscled, under-nourished women ditch diet culture, reclaim their strength, and find joy in movement again for aging with power? [00:35:59] What advice do you have for women when they feel like they’re “doing everything right” but their bodies aren’t responding—and how can they start to feel in control again? [00:36:26] Instead of losing 3-8% of muscle a decade after 30, how can women flip the script? Vision for Longevity – Medicine And Fitness Co-Existing Prevention to become the primary model of healthcare, with disease care as the fallback. Insurance-based care to cover preventing illness. Make fitness and nutrition prescriptions a standard practice. Reversing Pre-Diabetes 96M Americans have pre-diabetes—most are told “watch what you eat” Building muscle, walking daily, and avoiding poor food choices can reverse it quickly. Diabetes increases Alzheimer’s risk; lack of estrogen makes it worse. Aging with Power Through Menopause – From Exhausted to Empowered Progress does not happen overnight. You can build muscle at every age. Reclaim Your Strength Start with walking, if you're starting from zero. Use body weight. Lift heavy or HIIT. Recovery through sleep and nutrition. Connect with Dr. Vonda: Website - Dr. Vonda Wright Instagram - @drvondawright Facebook - Dr. Vonda Wright Other Episodes You Might Like: Previous Episode - Acute vs Chronic Stress Effects on Cortisol in Menopause and Beyond Next Episode - Muscle Mass and Strength Gains After Menopause How Much How Fast? More Like This - Smart Movement for Aging Better with Lara Heimann Resources: Join the Hot, Not Bothered! Challenge to learn why timing matters and why what works for others is not working for you. Don’t know where to start? Book your Discovery Call with Debra . Leave this session with insight into exactly what to do right now to make small changes, smart decisions about your exercise time and energy.