Episodes

  • #21 - Peeing Constantly? Pain with Sex? ‘BV’ That Won’t Go Away? Here’s How to Fix It Fast.

    #21 - Peeing Constantly? Pain with Sex? ‘BV’ That Won’t Go Away? Here’s How to Fix It Fast.
    Dec 3 2025
    🎙️ Episode 21: Peeing Constantly? Pain with Sex? ‘BV’ That Won’t Go Away? Here’s How to Fix It Fast.If you’ve been peeing constantly, dealing with dryness or burning, or wondering why sex suddenly hurts when it never used to — this episode is for you. And here’s the truth you may not have heard: these symptoms are not “just aging,” and you absolutely do not have to live with them.In this essential episode of The Modern Midlife Collective, Dr. Jill Woodruff and Dr. Ade Akindipe break down Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) — one of the most common, most misunderstood, and most treatable conditions in perimenopause and menopause.✨ If you’ve ever felt dismissed, confused, or embarrassed about these symptoms…this conversation is about clarity, biology, and getting you relief fast.Episode Highlights💧 What GSM Actually Is — and Why It Shows Up in Midlife How declining estrogen affects the vulva, vagina, bladder, and urethra — causing dryness, burning, UTIs, urgency, leaks, pain with sex, and pelvic discomfort.🚫 Why These Symptoms Are Misdiagnosed GSM looks like UTIs, yeast infections, BV, pelvic floor dysfunction — so women bounce between treatments without answers.🔟 The Top 10 Symptoms of GSM From dryness and tearing, to bladder spasms and recurrent UTIs — and why they’re all connected.🔥 Myth-Busting GSM • Vaginal estrogen treats bladder symptoms — not just dryness • The black box warning never applied to vaginal estrogen • Systemic HRT is not enough to reverse GSM • Lube is comfort — not treatment • GSM is not something you have to “just deal with”🩺 Treatments That Actually Work • Vaginal estrogen (cream, ring, tablet) — the gold standard • Pelvic floor physical therapy for leaks, urgency, painful sex • DHEA inserts for elasticity, sensation, and comfort • Moisturizers, vitamin E, coconut oil for daily hydration • Joylux/vFit for improved moisture, elasticity & pelvic support💞 GSM & Intimacy How pain disrupts desire — and how treating GSM restores connection, pleasure, and confidence.🧭 When to Seek Care If you’re peeing constantly, avoiding intimacy, getting frequent UTIs, or feeling uncomfortable daily — don’t wait. These symptoms are common and fully treatable.Memorable Quotes“This is not shame. This is biology — and we can treat it.” – Dr. Jill “When women understand the ‘why,’ their whole body softens. Relief begins with clarity.” – Dr. Ade “GSM is one of the most treatable conditions in menopause. You deserve comfort.” – Dr. Jill “Lube helps the moment. Estrogen heals the tissue.” – Dr. AdeGet to know the doctors behind the insights of The Modern Midlife Collective Podcast:Dr. Aderonke "Ade" Akindipe, DNP, MBA, APRN, FNP-CBoard-certified nurse practitioner and founder/medical director of Rejuvenate Health & Wellness.Creator of The Elevated Woman Method, helping women move beyond quick fixes and reclaim confidence in their bodies.With deep roots in functional medicine and lifestyle coaching, Dr. Ade teaches women that they are not broken — they simply need the right map back to themselves.Resources & Links from Dr. Ade: 🧾 Blood Sugar Balancing Blueprint: https://theelevatedwomanproject.com/episode-5-102825 💬 Book Your Free 60-Min Metabolic Clarity Session: https://l.bttr.to/sXiAWJillian Woodruff, MD, FACOG, NCMPBoard-certified gynecologist, surgeon, and nationally certified menopause provider specializing in hormone therapy, sexual medicine, and aesthetic gynecology.As Chief Medical Officer at Modern Gynecology & Skin, she empowers women through precision hormone care, sexual wellness, and holistic midlife support.Dr. Woodruff hosts NPR-affiliated “Line One”, co-founded The Women’s WELL Foundation, and is devoted to global health, education, and helping women thrive through midlife with confidence and clarity.📩 Have a question or comment? Email us at connect@modernmidlifecollective.com—we’d love to feature your thoughts in a future episode! Follow us on Instagram for updates and behind-the-scenes content.#Menopause #GenitourinarySyndrome #GSM #VaginalEstrogen #PelvicFloorTherapy #HormoneHealth #MidlifeHealth #Perimenopause #WomensHealth #ModernMidlifeCollective
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    33 mins
  • #20 - The Estrogen Lie: What the FDA Finally Admitted After 20 Years

    #20 - The Estrogen Lie: What the FDA Finally Admitted After 20 Years
    Nov 19 2025
    🎙️ Episode 20: The Estrogen Lie: What the FDA Finally Admitted After 20 YearsFor more than 20 years, women were told estrogen was dangerous — linked to breast cancer, heart attacks, stroke, and even dementia. But this month, the FDA finally admitted what menopause experts have known all along: the black box warning on estrogen was wrong.In this powerful episode of The Modern Midlife Collective, Dr. Jill Woodruff and Dr. Ade Akindipe break down what the FDA got right, what the WHI study got wrong, and how a single misunderstood study reshaped menopause care for an entire generation.They explain why the warning never applied to the typical woman starting hormone therapy, how relative-risk headlines fueled unnecessary fear, and why both systemic and vaginal estrogen carried risks that modern science does not support.✨ If you’ve ever been told hormones are “too risky,” this episode may change everything you thought you knew.Episode Highlights🔥 What Just Happened: The FDA’s Decision Why the FDA removed the black box warning — and why the correction is decades overdue.⚠️ What a Black Box Warning Really Means And how estrogen never met the threshold for one.📚 The WHI Study: Misinterpreted From the Start What the study measured, what it didn’t, and how early reporting went wrong.📉 The Statistics Behind the Fear Why the infamous “26% increase” wasn’t statistically significant — and what absolute risk really shows.💔 The Fallout of Fear-Based Messaging Women suffering avoidable symptoms, stopping therapy cold-turkey, and avoiding even safe vaginal estrogen.📜 What the FDA Decision Fixes Clarity. Nuance. Individualized care. Plus the critical distinction between systemic and local estrogen.🧠 Confirmation Bias & Why It Took So Long Why fear spreads faster than facts — even among clinicians.🌿 What Women Should Do Now How to start a truly informed hormone conversation with your provider.Memorable Quotes“Fear is sticky. But so is empowerment.” – Dr. Ade “The FDA didn’t say hormones are perfect. They said the warning was wrong.” – Dr. Jill “We deserve individualized care — not blanket fear.” – Dr. Jill “When women have accurate information, they make powerful decisions.” – Dr. AdeGet to know the doctors behind the insights of The Modern Midlife Collective Podcast:Dr. Aderonke "Ade" Akindipe, DNP, MBA, APRN, FNP-CA board-certified nurse practitioner and the founder and medical director of Rejuvenate Health & Wellness. Dr. Ade created The Elevated Woman Method, helping women move beyond quick fixes and rediscover what it means to truly thrive in their bodies. With deep experience in functional medicine and lifestyle coaching, she brings a compassionate, evidence-led approach to women’s health.Her message is simple: women aren’t broken — they just need the right map back to themselves.Resources & Links from Dr. Ade: 🧾 Blood Sugar Balancing Blueprint: https://theelevatedwomanproject.com/episode-5-102825 💬 Book Your Free 60-Min Metabolic Clarity Session: https://l.bttr.to/sXiAWJillian Woodruff, MD, FACOG, NCMPA board-certified gynecologist, surgeon, and nationally certified menopause practitioner specializing in general and cosmetic gynecologic surgery. As Chief Medical Officer at Modern Gynecology & Skin, she focuses on hormone therapy, sexual medicine, aesthetic treatments, and whole-person care for women in midlife.Dr. Woodruff hosts “Line One” on Alaska Public Media, an NPR-affiliated science and medical affairs show, and is co-founder of The Women’s WELL Foundation, dedicated to advancing women’s health access and education.As co-host of The Modern Midlife Collective, she brings expertise in hormones, sexual wellness, aesthetics, and lifestyle medicine — teaching women to advocate for their health with confidence. She is passionate about global health, languages, humanitarian work, and creating a life filled with community, family, and purpose.📩 Have a question or comment? Email us at connect@modernmidlifecollective.com — we’d love to feature your thoughts in a future episode! Follow us on Instagram for updates and behind-the-scenes content.#Menopause #HormoneTherapy #Estrogen #WomensHealth #MidlifeHealth #Perimenopause #MenopauseEducation #FDAUpdate #WHIStudy #ModernMidlifeCollective
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    34 mins
  • #19 - Why You Wake Up at 3 AM

    #19 - Why You Wake Up at 3 AM
    Nov 5 2025
    Why You Wake Up at 3 A.M.: Sleep Disruption in Midlife ExplainedIf you’ve ever stared at the ceiling at 3 A.M., wondering why your body suddenly decided sleep was optional—you’re not alone. In this episode of The Modern Midlife Collective, Dr. Jill Woodruff and Dr. Ade Akindipe unpack one of the most frustrating mysteries of midlife: the 3 A.M. wake-up call.This isn’t just “bad sleep” or getting older—it’s your biology trying to get your attention. From cortisol surges and blood sugar dips to falling estrogen and progesterone levels, there’s a reason your mind starts racing while the world sleeps.✨ This conversation will help you understand what’s really happening inside your body—and how to restore calm, balance, and truly restful nights again.Episode Highlights🌙 The 3 A.M. Pattern Why so many midlife women wake between 2–4 A.M.—and how hormones, cortisol, and temperature swings are involved.🧠 The Science Made Simple How declining estrogen and progesterone disrupt serotonin, GABA, and body temperature regulation—your brain’s natural sleep supports💤 Quality vs. Quantity Why deep, slow-wave sleep and REM are both essential for memory, repair, and emotional stability.🍷 Hormones, Hunger & Nighttime Cravings How fragmented sleep triggers blood sugar crashes, carb cravings, and midlife weight gain.☀️ Melatonin & Morning Light Why your sleep starts with sunlight exposure—and how early daylight resets your body’s rhythm.🪞 Fixing the Foundation Science-backed sleep strategies: cool your room, limit blue light, balance blood sugar, and rethink that nightly glass of wine.🔁 Re-Training Your Nights What to do when you wake at 3 A.M.—and how to teach your body (and brain) to trust sleep again.Memorable Quotes“Think of sleep like a relationship. You can’t ignore it all day and expect fireworks at night.” – Dr. Jill “You’re not crazy—you’re just hormonally hijacked.” – Dr. Jill “Support your hormones, calm your stress response, and stabilize your blood sugar—and the 3 A.M. wake-ups start to fade.” – Dr. AdeChapters00:00 – The “Midlife Witching Hour” Explained 04:20 – What’s Really Happening Between 2–4 A.M. 08:00 – Estrogen, Progesterone & Your Sleep Cycles 12:45 – Cortisol, Blood Sugar & Nighttime Wake-Ups 17:30 – Deep Sleep, REM & Brain Health 21:15 – The Hunger-Sleep Connection 26:00 – Melatonin, Light & Resetting Your Rhythm 30:40 – Sleep Fixes That Actually Work 36:00 – How to Re-Train Your Nights 41:00 – Final Thoughts: Your Body Isn’t BrokenMeet Your HostsDr. Aderonke "Ade" Akindipe, DNP, MBA, APRN, FNP-CA board-certified nurse practitioner and founder and medical director at Rejuvenate Health & Wellness. Dr. Ade Akindipe created The Elevated Woman Method to help women move beyond quick fixes and rediscover what it means to thrive in their bodies. With years of experience in functional medicine and lifestyle coaching, she brings a compassionate, evidence-led approach to women’s health. Dr. Ade believes women aren’t broken—they just need the right map back to themselves. Resources and links from Dr. Ade🧾 Blood Sugar Balancing Blueprint: https://theelevatedwomanproject.com/episode-5-102825💬 Book your Free 60 Metabolic Clarity Session: https://l.bttr.to/sXiAWDr. Jillian Woodruff, MD, FACOG, NCMP A board-certified gynecologist and nationally certified menopause practitioner, Dr. Woodruff is Chief Medical Officer of Modern Gynecology & Skin, host of Line One on Alaska Public Media, and co-founder of The Women’s WELL Foundation. Her mission: empower women to understand their hormones, embrace their midlife vitality, and sleep beautifully again.📩 Have a question or comment? Email us at connect@modernmidlifecollective.com—we’d love to feature your story or question in a future episode! Follow us on Instagram for behind-the-scenes content and upcoming topics: @modernmidlifecollective#SleepHealth #MidlifeWellness #MenopauseRelief #Perimenopause #HormoneHealth #WomensHealth #ModernMidlifeCollective
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    30 mins
  • #18 - Everything They Didn’t Tell You About Perimenopause (But Your Body Is Trying to Show)

    #18 - Everything They Didn’t Tell You About Perimenopause (But Your Body Is Trying to Show)
    Oct 22 2025

    Everything They Didn’t Tell You About Perimenopause (But Your Body Is Trying to Show)


    Perimenopause isn’t menopause—it’s the messy middle. The years when your body starts whispering (sometimes shouting) that change is coming, even though you’re still having periods. In this episode of The Modern Midlife Collective, Dr. Jill Woodruff and Dr. Ade Akindipe pull back the curtain on the transition no one warned you about: perimenopause.


    From mood swings, heavy periods, anxiety, and brain fog to night sweats and stubborn weight gain, your body is sending signals long before your final menstrual period. But because these symptoms mimic stress, thyroid disease, or even depression, many women are misdiagnosed or dismissed.


    ✨ This conversation will help you recognize what’s normal, what’s not, and how to partner with your provider to navigate this season with confidence and support.


    Episode Highlights

    • Why perimenopause can start as early as your late 30s (and why so many women miss it)
    • The role of hormone fluctuations: falling progesterone and unpredictable estrogen
    • Common symptoms: irregular cycles, anxiety, brain fog, night sweats, and midsection weight gain
    • Red flags that need medical attention—heavy bleeding, persistent pelvic pain, or severe depression
    • How lifestyle hormones (cortisol, insulin, thyroid, vitamin D) interact with sex hormones
    • When to consider hormone therapy and why starting earlier can be both safe and effective
    • Why perimenopause is more than symptoms—it’s an invitation to reclaim your power in midlife


    Memorable Quotes

    • “Perimenopause doesn’t send a calendar invite—it just arrives.” – Dr. Ade
    • “Don’t normalize misery. There are solutions.” – Dr. Ade
    • “Perimenopause is your body saying: It’s time to pay attention.” – Dr. Jill

    Chapters

    00:00 – What Perimenopause Really Is
    02:00 – The Confusion Stage: “Too Young for Menopause?”
    08:00 – The Body Keeps the Score: Symptoms You Can’t Ignore
    15:00 – When to Call Your Provider & Red Flags
    20:00 – Hormone Therapy Demystified
    22:00 – The Empowerment Shift: Midlife as Your Power Era
    27:00 – Final Thoughts & How to Advocate for Yourself


    Meet Your Hosts


    Dr. Ade Akindipe, DNP, MBA, APRN, FNP-C
    A board-certified nurse practitioner and founder of Rejuvenate Health & Wellness, Dr. Akindipe specializes in hormone and obesity medicine with a focus on root-cause, functional approaches. He is an advocate for health equity and serves as Co-Chair of the Health Committee for the Alaska Black Caucus, working to expand access to preventive care for underserved communities.


    Dr. Jillian Woodruff, MD, FACOG, NCMP
    A board-certified gynecologist and nationally certified menopause practitioner, Dr. Woodruff is the Chief Medical Officer of Modern Gynecology & Skin. She is also host of NPR-affiliated Line One on Alaska Public Media and co-founder of The Women’s WELL Foundation. Her expertise spans hormone therapy, sexual wellness, and aesthetic medicine, empowering women to lead vibrant, informed lives.


    📩 Have a question or comment? Email us at connect@modernmidlifecollective.com—we’d love to feature your thoughts in a future episode!
    Follow us on Instagram for updates and behind-the-scenes content.


    #Perimenopause #MidlifeHealth #WomensHealth #HormoneTherapy #HormoneBalance #SleepHealth #ModernMidlifeCollective
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    28 mins
  • #17 - Progesterone Intolerance: When the Calming Hormone Turns to Chaos

    #17 - Progesterone Intolerance: When the Calming Hormone Turns to Chaos
    Oct 8 2025


    Is Progesterone Only for Women with a Uterus? The Truth About Hormone Therapy

    When you hear “progesterone,” do you immediately think it’s only necessary for women who still have a uterus? Think again.

    In this episode of The Modern Midlife Collective, Dr. Jillian Woodruff, board-certified gynecologist and menopause specialist, and Dr. Ade Akindipe, functional medicine expert and nurse practitioner, unpack one of the most persistent myths in women’s health: that progesterone is optional after hysterectomy.

    Together, they explore why progesterone plays a vital role in hormone therapy far beyond uterine protection. From supporting sleep and reducing anxiety, to protecting the brain, bones, and cardiovascular system, progesterone proves itself to be essential for midlife health. The conversation also breaks down confusing terminology around progesterone vs. progestins, dives into different forms and dosing options, and emphasizes why individualized care is key to safe and effective treatment.


    You’ll also hear candid insights on side effects, how hormones work in symphony, and why finding a knowledgeable provider matters when navigating hormone therapy.

    ✨ You’ll walk away knowing that progesterone’s story is much bigger than just the uterus.


    Episode Highlights:

    • Why you still need progesterone even without a uterus
    • The neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory benefits of progesterone
    • Continuous vs. cyclic dosing—what works best and why
    • Differences between bioidentical progesterone and synthetic progestins
    • How progesterone supports sleep, mood, and hormone balance
    • Side effects to be aware of and how to adjust care
    • The importance of individualized approaches to hormone therapy


    Memorable Quotes:

    • “Progesterone’s role does not end with the uterus.”
    • “The key is—it’s not a blanket rule.”
    • “We have to share the not so good parts too.”



    Chapters:
     00:00 Debunking the Uterus Myth
    02:42 The Role of Progesterone in Hormone Therapy
    05:45 Understanding Dosing: Continuous vs. Cyclic Progesterone
    08:34 Progesterone’s Neuroprotective Benefits
    11:39 The Importance of Progesterone for Bone and Cardiovascular Health
    14:34 Clarifying Terminology: Progesterone vs. Progestins
    17:30 Forms of Progesterone: Oral, Vaginal, and Topical
    20:04 Dosing Guidelines for Hormone Replacement Therapy
    23:01 Potential Side Effects and Considerations
    25:42 Individualized Care in Hormone Therapy


    Meet Your Hosts:

    Dr. Aderonke "Ade" Akindipe, DNP, MBA, APRN, FNP-C
    A board-certified nurse practitioner and founder and medical director at Rejuvenate Health & Wellness. Dr. Ade Akindipe created The Elevated Woman Method to help women move beyond quick fixes and rediscover what it means to thrive in their bodies. With years of experience in functional medicine and lifestyle coaching, she brings a compassionate, evidence-led approach to women’s health. Dr. Ade believes women aren’t broken—they just need the right map back to themselves.
    Resources and links from Dr. Ade

    • 🧾 Blood Sugar Balancing Blueprint: https://theelevatedwomanproject.com/episode-5-102825
    • 💬 Book your Free 60 Metabolic Clarity Session: https://l.bttr.to/sXiAW

    Dr. Jillian Woodruff, MD, FACOG, NCMP
     A board-certified gynecologist and nationally certified menopause practitioner, Dr. Woodruff is the Chief Medical Officer of Modern Gynecology & Skin. She is also host of NPR-affiliated Line One on Alaska Public Media and co-founder of The Women’s WELL Foundation. Her expertise spans hormone therapy, sexual wellness, and aesthetic medicine, empowering women to lead vibrant, informed lives.

    📩 Have a question or comment? Email us at connect@modernmidlifecollective.com—we’d love to feature your thoughts in a future episode!
    Follow us on Instagram for updates and behind-the-scenes content.


    #MenopauseHealth #Progesterone #HormoneTherapy #MidlifeHealth #WomensHealth #HormoneBalance #SleepHealth #Inflammation
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    30 mins
  • #16 - Midlife Myth to Modern Medicine: I Don’t Need Progesterone Because I Don’t Have a Uterus

    #16 - Midlife Myth to Modern Medicine: I Don’t Need Progesterone Because I Don’t Have a Uterus
    Sep 24 2025

    Is Progesterone Only for Women with a Uterus? The Truth About Hormone Therapy


    When you hear “progesterone,” do you immediately think it’s only necessary for women who still have a uterus? Think again.

    In this episode of The Modern Midlife Collective, Dr. Jillian Woodruff, board-certified gynecologist and menopause specialist, and Dr. Ade Akindipe, functional medicine expert and nurse practitioner, unpack one of the most persistent myths in women’s health: that progesterone is optional after hysterectomy.


    Together, they explore why progesterone plays a vital role in hormone therapy far beyond uterine protection. From supporting sleep and reducing anxiety, to protecting the brain, bones, and cardiovascular system, progesterone proves itself to be essential for midlife health. The conversation also breaks down confusing terminology around progesterone vs. progestins, dives into different forms and dosing options, and emphasizes why individualized care is key to safe and effective treatment.


    You’ll also hear candid insights on side effects, how hormones work in symphony, and why finding a knowledgeable provider matters when navigating hormone therapy.

    ✨ You’ll walk away knowing that progesterone’s story is much bigger than just the uterus.

    Episode Highlights:

    • Why you still need progesterone even without a uterus
    • The neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory benefits of progesterone
    • Continuous vs. cyclic dosing—what works best and why
    • Differences between bioidentical progesterone and synthetic progestins
    • How progesterone supports sleep, mood, and hormone balance
    • Side effects to be aware of and how to adjust care
    • The importance of individualized approaches to hormone therapy



    Memorable Quotes:

    • “Progesterone’s role does not end with the uterus.”
    • “The key is—it’s not a blanket rule.”
    • “We have to share the not so good parts too.”


    Chapters:
     00:00 Debunking the Uterus Myth
    02:42 The Role of Progesterone in Hormone Therapy
    05:45 Understanding Dosing: Continuous vs. Cyclic Progesterone
    08:34 Progesterone’s Neuroprotective Benefits
    11:39 The Importance of Progesterone for Bone and Cardiovascular Health
    14:34 Clarifying Terminology: Progesterone vs. Progestins
    17:30 Forms of Progesterone: Oral, Vaginal, and Topical
    20:04 Dosing Guidelines for Hormone Replacement Therapy
    23:01 Potential Side Effects and Considerations
    25:42 Individualized Care in Hormone Therapy


    Meet Your Hosts:

    Dr. Aderonke "Ade" Akindipe, DNP, MBA, APRN, FNP-C
    A board-certified nurse practitioner and founder and medical director at Rejuvenate Health & Wellness. Dr. Ade Akindipe created The Elevated Woman Method to help women move beyond quick fixes and rediscover what it means to thrive in their bodies. With years of experience in functional medicine and lifestyle coaching, she brings a compassionate, evidence-led approach to women’s health. Dr. Ade believes women aren’t broken—they just need the right map back to themselves.
    Resources and links from Dr. Ade

    • 🧾 Blood Sugar Balancing Blueprint: https://theelevatedwomanproject.com/episode-5-102825
    • 💬 Book your Free 60 Metabolic Clarity Session: https://l.bttr.to/sXiAW

    Dr. Jillian Woodruff, MD, FACOG, NCMP
    A board-certified gynecologist and nationally certified menopause practitioner, Dr. Woodruff is the Chief Medical Officer of Modern Gynecology & Skin. She is also host of NPR-affiliated Line One on Alaska Public Media and co-founder of The Women’s WELL Foundation. Her expertise spans hormone therapy, sexual wellness, and aesthetic medicine, empowering women to lead vibrant, informed lives.


    📩 Have a question or comment? Email us at connect@modernmidlifecollective.com—we’d love to feature your thoughts in a future episode!
    Follow us on Instagram for updates and behind-the-scenes content.


    #MenopauseHealth #Progesterone #HormoneTherapy #MidlifeHealth #WomensHealth #HormoneBalance #SleepHealth #Inflammation #ModernMidlifeCollective

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    34 mins
  • #15 - From Tired to Thriving: How to Actually Boost Energy in Your 40s & 50s

    #15 - From Tired to Thriving: How to Actually Boost Energy in Your 40s & 50s
    Sep 10 2025

    Are you feeling constantly tired, struggling with brain fog, or wondering if it's just 'part of getting older'? What if there's more to the story, especially when it comes to chronic fatigue in midlife?


    In this enlightening episode of The Modern Midlife Collective, Dr. Jillian Woodruff, board-certified gynecologist and menopause specialist, and Dr. Ade Akindipe, functional medicine expert and nurse practitioner, explore the multifaceted causes of fatigue that often go overlooked. They debunk the myth that fatigue is simply a byproduct of aging and delve into how hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, and lifestyle factors play a crucial role in your energy levels.


    Together, they discuss how hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and cortisol influence your mood, motivation, and overall vitality. You'll hear both evidence-based insights and personal stories to help you understand the real impact of these factors—and what options are available to restore your energy. From individualized testing and therapy to lifestyle-based solutions, this episode is your guide to navigating midlife fatigue with confidence and clarity.


    You deserve answers, and you're not alone. Tune in now and discover how addressing the root causes of fatigue can help you thrive in midlife and beyond.


    Episode Highlights:


    Chronic fatigue is not just a part of aging; it's a signal from your body. The role of hormones in managing energy levels and mood. Personal stories and scientific insights into overcoming fatigue. The importance of personalized health care and monitoring.

    Meet Your Hosts:


    Dr. Ade Akindipe, DNP, MBA, APRN, FNP-C

    A board-certified nurse practitioner and founder of Rejuvenate Health & Wellness, Dr. Akindipe specializes in hormone and obesity medicine with a focus on root-cause, functional approaches. She is an advocate for health equity and serves as Co-Chair of the Health Committee for the Alaska Black Caucus, working to expand access to preventive care for underserved communities.


    Dr. Jillian Woodruff, MD, FACOG, NCMP

    A board-certified gynecologist and nationally certified menopause practitioner, Dr. Woodruff is the Chief Medical Officer of Modern Gynecology & Skin. She is also host of NPR-affiliated Line One on Alaska Public Media and co-founder of The Women’s WELL Foundation. Her expertise spans hormone therapy, sexual wellness, and aesthetic medicine, empowering women to lead vibrant, informed lives.


    📩 Have a question or comment? Email us at connect@modernmidlifecollective.com—we’d love to feature your thoughts in a future episode!

    Follow us on Instagram for more updates and behind-the-scenes content.


    #ModernMidlifeCollective #MidlifeHealth #ChronicFatigue #ModernMedicine #WomenDeserveBetter

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    39 mins
  • #14 - Food, Fads & Female Hormones: What Actually Nourishes Midlife Health | Part 2

    #14 - Food, Fads & Female Hormones: What Actually Nourishes Midlife Health | Part 2
    Aug 27 2025


    In an age of endless diet trends and wellness noise, how do midlife women truly nourish themselves—not just for weight management, but for hormone balance, gut health, and longevity?


    In this episode of The Modern Midlife Collective, Dr. Jillian Woodruff and Dr. Ade Akindipe, take a clear-eyed look at popular dietary trends through the lens of midlife wellness. From plant-forward and Mediterranean styles to the paleo and anti-inflammatory approaches, they examine the science, benefits, and limitations of each—along with practical strategies for applying them in everyday life.


    Beyond nutrition labels and food fads, Dr. Jillian and Dr. Ade emphasizes individualized, sustainable choices that support hormonal health, metabolic balance, and overall well-being. They also highlight the importance of cultural context, individualized nutrition, and mindset when building a sustainable and nourishing way of eating.


    Whether you're navigating hormone changes, managing chronic inflammation, or simply trying to eat well in a busy life, this episode is for you!


    If this episode resonated with you, consider sharing it with a friend, colleague, or family member who’s navigating similar changes. Don’t forget to subscribe, leave us a review, and connect with us at connect@modernmidlifecollective.com to let us know what topics you’d like to hear next.


    Together, we’re redefining what it means to thrive in midlife—one nourishing conversation at a time.

    Highlights:

    • A breakdown of the Mediterranean, plant-forward, paleo, and anti-inflammatory diets
    • How gut health influences hormone balance—and why midlife women should care
    • Pros and cons of protein powders, frozen produce, and common food eliminations
    • The cultural lens of food: navigating traditions, expectations, and nutrition
    • Practical approaches to personalizing your diet for hormone and metabolic health
    • Why mindset is foundational to sustainable wellness
    • The link between inflammation, aging, and hormone fluctuations
    • Nutritional strategies to support energy, brain health, and longevity


    Meet your hosts

    Dr. Aderonke "Ade" Akindipe, DNP, MBA, APRN, FNP-C
    A board-certified nurse practitioner and founder and medical director at Rejuvenate Health & Wellness. Dr. Ade Akindipe created The Elevated Woman Method to help women move beyond quick fixes and rediscover what it means to thrive in their bodies. With years of experience in functional medicine and lifestyle coaching, she brings a compassionate, evidence-led approach to women’s health. Dr. Ade believes women aren’t broken—they just need the right map back to themselves.
    Resources and links from Dr. Ade

    • 🧾 Blood Sugar Balancing Blueprint: https://theelevatedwomanproject.com/episode-5-102825
    • 💬 Book your Free 60 Metabolic Clarity Session: https://l.bttr.to/sXiAW


    Jillian Woodruff, MD, FACOG, NCMP, is a board-certified gynecologist, surgeon, and nationally certified menopause provider specializing in general and cosmetic gynecologic surgery. As Chief Medical Officer of Modern Gynecology & Skin, she specializes in hormone therapy, sexual medicine, and aesthetic treatments to help women thrive.

    She is the host of “Line One” on Alaska Public Media, an NPR-affiliated medical affairs radio show, and co-founder of The Women’s WELL Foundation, dedicated to women’s health education and access.

    As the co-host of The Modern Midlife Collective, she brings expertise in hormones, sexual health, aesthetics, and holistic practices, teaching women to advocate for their health and well-being in midlife with confidence.

    Passionate about global health, lifestyle medicine, and education, she enjoys traveling, humanitarian work, studying languages, and family life while empowering women to take charge of their health.
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    38 mins