The Cult of the Needle: Why Everyone’s Injecting Everything — and Why You Don’t Need To In this episode of Midlife Mayhem, Joanne dives into one of the wildest cultural shifts in modern health and fitness:how we went from terrified of needles to injecting everything in sight — from weight loss medications to peptides, and now, even experimental compounds. A few years ago, the idea of self-injecting anything was unthinkable.Today? People proudly post their peptide stacks like they’re Michelin-star meals.But somewhere in all this newfound syringe enthusiasm, we’ve lost sight of something important:the delivery system doesn’t determine the result — the mechanism does. 💉 Inside This Episode This is a deep, science-backed, myth-busting conversation for anyone curious about: Why injectable doesn’t automatically mean superior The real reason scientists use injections in research — and why that doesn’t translate to better human results How 5-Amino-1MQ and SLU-PP-332 actually work at the cellular level The difference between spikes and stability in metabolism and fat oxidation How oral delivery can often outperform injections by providing consistent activation instead of biochemical chaos Why small, lipophilic molecules like 5-Amino-1MQ and SLU-PP-332 thrive in oral form — and what that means for energy, endurance, and longevity The hidden risks of home-mixed injectables (purity, solvents, contamination, degradation) Why consistency, not intensity, is what drives results in body composition and performance 🧠 The Takeaway Injectables look hardcore.They feel scientific.But for many compounds — especially small molecules designed to work through long-term cellular signaling — oral delivery isn’t a compromise. It’s often the smarter, safer, and more sustainable route. The body doesn’t care how fast something hits your bloodstream; it cares how well it integrates into your system.And that’s where the hype ends and the science begins. ⚡ Key Quotes “Injectables were designed for lab control, not lifestyle performance.” “Needles spike. Capsules sustain. And for long-term results — stability wins.” “We’ve glamorized the syringe, but metabolism doesn’t need theater — it needs consistency.” 🧬 Want to Learn More? Explore the science, studies, and benefits behind these two groundbreaking compounds:👉 www.5amino.com — Learn about 5-Amino-1MQ and how it supports metabolism, energy, and muscle preservation.👉 www.slu332.com — Discover SLU-PP-332, the endurance molecule known as “exercise in a bottle.” And for more in-depth discussions on midlife performance, muscle, and metabolism:🎥 Subscribe to my YouTube channel — @JoanneLeeCornish

🎙️ Episode Title: “Sore but Not Growing: Why Pain Isn’t Proof of Progress” 💡 Full Episode Summary (for Readers) We’ve been taught to wear soreness like a badge of honor.If you can’t sit down after leg day, that’s proof you “did it right,” right?Wrong. Soreness is inflammation — not progress.It’s a sign your muscles are repairing micro-tears, not necessarily adapting or growing stronger. In fact, constant soreness can be a red flag: poor recovery, hormonal imbalance, or even overtraining. Let’s unpack it all. 1️⃣ What Soreness Really Is That post-workout ache — called DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness) — is your immune system’s inflammatory response to microscopic damage in muscle fibers, especially from eccentric (lowering) phases of movement.Think walking downhill, controlling a squat on the way down, or those long negative reps everyone swears by. Your body rushes repair crews — fluid, enzymes, and immune cells — to the scene. The result: tight, swollen, tender muscles.It feels productive, but it’s not a direct measure of effectiveness. You can grow without pain — and you can be wrecked for days and make zero progress. 2️⃣ Why You’re Sore (and Still Not Growing) Soreness doesn’t always mean success. It usually means you did something new, not necessarily something optimal. Here’s why: Novelty – New exercises, new volume, new tempos. Your body isn’t used to it, so inflammation spikes. Eccentric overload – Lowering weights slowly or training deep into stretch under load causes more micro-tears. Great tool, bad habit if overused. Volume creep – “One more set” becomes five more sets. Without recovery, your muscles stay in repair mode and never shift into growth mode. Under-fueling – Low protein, low calories, or poor hydration prolong recovery and amplify soreness. So that crippling soreness you’re proud of?That’s your body saying, “I’m still fixing what you broke last week.” 3️⃣ Who Gets the Most Sore Beginners: Every move is new — soreness is brutal but short-lived. The ‘Back-from-a-Break’ crowd: Two weeks off? Welcome to DOMS-ville. Variety junkies: Constantly changing workouts prevents adaptation. Your body never learns efficiency. Under-fed or over-stressed lifters: Low fuel and high cortisol = chronic soreness. Midlife athletes: Slower repair mechanisms mean you’ll feel sore longer. It’s not age weakness — it’s physiology. 4️⃣ Should You Train When You’re Sore? Depends. Mild soreness: Move — it boosts blood flow and recovery. Moderate soreness: Train something else or reduce volume. Severe soreness: Rest. If it changes your form, you’re one rep away from injury. The goal isn’t to crawl out of the gym — it’s to keep coming back.Consistency outperforms intensity every time. 5️⃣ When Soreness Becomes a Warning Sign If you’re always sore, you’re not recovering — you’re overtraining.This isn’t dedication. It’s dysfunction. Chronically sore athletes often show: Elevated cortisol (stress hormone that blocks muscle repair) Suppressed testosterone and DHEA Low thyroid output (T3) High CRP and CK (blood markers of inflammation and muscle breakdown) Fatigue, poor sleep, brain fog, and mood swings If this sounds like you, stop chasing soreness and start chasing balance.You’re not getting fitter — you’re getting inflamed. 6️⃣ How to Reduce Soreness and Actually Grow Increase training volume gradually — no 50% jumps overnight. Eat 30–40g of protein per meal. Add carbs pre- and post-workout to lower cortisol and replenish glycogen. Hydrate like an athlete — recovery slows when you’re dehydrated. Prioritize sleep — it’s when growth hormone peaks. Use tools like red light therapy, sauna, or massage to enhance recovery. Stick with your plan. Constantly switching workouts keeps you sore and stagnant. 7️⃣ Bloodwork Clues Your labs often tell the real story.If you’re training hard but always sore, ask your doctor about: Cortisol (AM levels) – chronic elevation =

🎙️ Episode Title: “Hormones Off the Hook: What the FDA’s New Decision Means for Women, HRT, and the Future of Menopause Care” 💡 Episode Summary: For decades, women have been warned that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is risky business — linked to heart disease, cancer, and every imaginable midlife horror story. But that narrative just flipped. In a landmark move, the FDA has lifted the black box warnings from many HRT products — a long-overdue acknowledgment that the old data was outdated, misunderstood, and unnecessarily fear-inducing. In this episode, Joanne breaks down: 🔍 What the FDA actually did — and how it changes the landscape for women in midlife. ⚖️ Why the original warnings were wrong for most women and what new research reveals about timing, dosage, and delivery. 💊 The arrival of a new non-hormonal medication (Lynkuet / Elinzanetant) for hot flashes and night sweats — and who it’s perfect for. 🧬 How all of this impacts your hormones, body composition, recovery, and long-term health. This episode is your science-based, hype-free breakdown of one of the most important updates in women’s health in decades. 🎯 Why You’ll Want to Listen: If you’ve ever been told HRT is “too risky,” or you’ve suffered through hot flashes, mood swings, or sleepless nights because you thought you had no options — this conversation changes everything. It’s time to replace fear with facts and take control of midlife on your terms. 💌 Work With Joanne: Joanne is now accepting applications for her exclusive 10-month mentorship, A Perfect 10, starting February 2026. Ten women. Ten months.A deep-dive journey into hormones, training, nutrition, mindset, and the science of midlife mastery. If you’re ready to look, feel, and live at your absolute best — email Joanne directly at joanne@joannelee.com for details.

Rewriting My Midlife Brand, Metabolism & Fasting: Why I’m Becoming JoanneLee.com Episode DescriptionIn this episode, I pull back the curtain on a big shift: after 30 years as The Shrink Shop, I’m moving everything under JoanneLee.com and fully owning the work I actually do — high-level body composition and midlife coaching that goes way beyond “just weight loss.” We’ll dive into why I’m rebranding, how my coaching has evolved, and then get into the science of fasting, metabolic slowdown, and midlife hormones — including why fasting is powerful for some bodies and a terrible idea for others. In This Episode, You’ll Hear About: 🔁 Why I’m Rebranding to JoanneLee.com Why The Shrink Shop name worked in the early “weight loss only” days, but no longer reflects the depth of my work How my Mastering Midlife coaching has gone far beyond fat loss into hormones, resilience, energy, and long-term health Why I’m stepping into my own name and identity to represent my full range of coaching (not just shrinking bodies, but rebuilding them) 🧠 My Coaching Philosophy: Science First, Trends Second How my approach is built on physiology and current research, not whatever diet is trending on Instagram this week Why my work is grounded in body composition — muscle, fat, hormones, metabolism — rather than just “scale weight” How I use tools like fasting inside structured programs, rather than as a random or extreme lifestyle ⏳ Constant Calorie Restriction vs Fasting: What Really Happens to Your Metabolism Why long-term calorie restriction makes your body burn fewer calories at rest The role of NEAT (Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis) — all the unconscious movement you do in a day — and how it can drop by up to ~700 calories/day when you’re dieting hard How thyroid output and other hormones adapt downward when the body feels like energy is scarce Why some naturally lean people (often ectomorphs) stay slim because of consistently high NEAT, not “magic metabolism” 🔥 Metabolic Adaptation & Why Pushing Harder Backfires What metabolic adaptation actually is and why your body becomes better at storing energy when it senses ongoing restriction Why “eat less, move more” eventually crashes: pushing harder with less food and more exercise can stall fat loss and make you feel worse How fasting sends a clear on/off signal, allowing the body to mobilize fat without the same “panic conserve” response The benefits of clear eating windows and routine for cellular and mitochondrial health ⚡ Fasting: Myths, Benefits & Where It Actually Helps Why fasting does not slow metabolism — and how it can temporarily increase adrenaline and alertness as a survival mechanism How that “elevated, sharp” feeling during a fast is biology first, not spiritual awakening — even if it sometimes feels that way How fasting can help mobilize stored fat and give the digestive system a break Where I typically use fasting in coaching (for example, a structured 16-hour fast phase in my Signature Program) ⚠️ Why Fasting Is Not for Everyone — Especially in Midlife Why many midlife clients already live in a chronic stress / high cortisol state — and how aggressive fasting can make that worse The problem with combining fasting + low calories + low protein in midlife (hello, muscle loss, fatigue, and hormone chaos) Why some midlife bodies need stability, adequate protein, and nervous system regulation more than extended fasting windows How to think about more moderate strategies like 12-hour eating windows and routine-based timing instead of extreme fasting 🎯 Elite Coaching for Midlife: My 10-Month Program A brief look at my upcoming 10-month Elite program for a small group of people who want deep, high-touch coaching around: Midlife body composition Hormones and metabolism Performance, resilience, and long-term health Why this container is for people who are done with short programs and ready to fully com

Most women are never told what to expect as they approach menopause. There’s no handbook, no clear roadmap — just years of confusion, self-blame, and frustration as symptoms slowly appear. It’s heartbreaking that we enter one of the biggest biological transitions of our lives unprepared — often told to “just get on with it.” In this episode, Joanne breaks down the menopause journey — a stage-by-stage guide explaining what’s happening in your body, when it’s likely to happen, and the conversations you should be having with your doctor (and yourself). While every woman’s experience is unique, there’s a general timeline most women follow. And understanding it can completely change how you experience this chapter. The Menopause Journey: What to Expect 🌱 Early 40s — The First Shifts (Perimenopause Begins) This is when subtle hormonal changes start — long before your period stops. What’s Happening: Progesterone starts to decline, while estrogen spikes and dips unpredictably. How It Feels: PMS mood swings, sleep disruption, midsection weight gain, heavier or shorter periods, and that vague sense that “something’s changing.” What’s Going On in Labs: FSH begins to fluctuate, progesterone drops, and thyroid issues may surface. What to Focus On: Track your cycles and symptoms. Prioritize protein, sleep, and strength training. Correct nutrient deficiencies (iron, vitamin D, magnesium, B12, omega-3s). Balance blood sugar to calm cortisol. This stage is often missed because cycles are still regular — yet the foundation for your next decade is being set right here. 🎢 Mid 40s — The Rollercoaster Years The hormone swings now become much more noticeable — and unpredictable. Hormones: Estrogen fluctuates dramatically; progesterone is often very low. Symptoms: Irregular cycles, night sweats, hot flashes, brain fog, migraines, joint aches, and skin changes. Blood Work: FSH and LH become erratic but trend upward; estradiol fluctuates widely. Possible Next Step: Many women start low-dose progesterone therapy here — it can calm heavy bleeding, improve sleep, and offset estrogen dominance. This is when women often feel like they’re “losing control” of their body — but it’s biology, not failure. 🔄 Late 40s — The Transition The true shift begins here — ovulation becomes inconsistent, and estrogen begins its long-term decline. Symptoms: Persistent hot flashes, stubborn weight changes, mood shifts, slower recovery, loss of muscle tone. Labs: FSH often >30 IU/L, estradiol trending lower, DHEA and pregnenolone decline. HRT Evolution: Combined estrogen + progesterone therapy is common (patches, gels, or pills). DHEA or pregnenolone may help with fatigue and resilience. Some women move through this stage smoothly — others don’t. Lifestyle, genetics, stress, and body composition all play a huge role. 🌸 Early 50s — Menopause (12 Months Without a Period) This marks the official definition of menopause. Hormones: Estrogen and progesterone are now both very low. Symptoms: Vaginal dryness, poor sleep, hot flashes, loss of libido, and declining bone density. Blood Work: Estradiol low (<30 pg/mL), FSH high, testosterone often reduced. HRT Options: Estrogen (patch/gel/cream) for brain, bone, and heart health. Progesterone for uterine protection (if uterus intact). Testosterone for strength, motivation, and libido. This is often the stage where women finally seek help — but the truth is, this conversation should start years earlier. 🌤 Mid 50s and Beyond — Postmenopause The storm calms — but long-term health now depends on what you’ve built (or lost) during the previous stages. Hormones: All ovarian hormones remain at baseline low. Symptoms: Hot flashes may subside, but now bone loss, muscle loss, and cardiovascular changes become the priority. Labs: Low estrogen, progesterone, and androgens; higher LDL and fasting insulin levels. Long-Term HRT: Many women continue estrogen and

  Aging is not a number We’ve all heard the phrase “The mitochondria is the powerhouse of the cell” — probably in high school biology, on a meme, or even on a T-shirt. But what most people don’t realize is that this isn’t just trivia. This is the foundation of how you age, how you feel, and how your body performs every single day. In this episode, Joanne breaks down what cellular health really means — in plain English — and why the slow changes we call “aging” actually begin at the cellular level. You’ll learn how the tiny factories inside your body, your mitochondria, determine your energy, recovery, fat-burning ability, and even how fast you age. Key Takeaways 🧬 Aging Is Cellular Aging doesn’t start on the outside — it starts inside your cells. As mitochondria (your body’s energy factories) become less efficient, you experience fatigue, slower recovery, brain fog, and stubborn fat gain. Cellular decline is aging. ⚡ Your Energy Factory Every cell in your body relies on mitochondria to create ATP — your body’s version of a rechargeable battery. That means every blink, every heartbeat, every lift in the gym depends on these little energy makers. When they’re working well, you feel strong and unstoppable. When they’re not, you feel sluggish, no matter how “healthy” you think you are. 🍞🥩🥑 Metabolic Flexibility Healthy mitochondria can switch easily between using carbs and fats for fuel — what’s called metabolic flexibility. When that flexibility is lost, you become dependent on sugar and frequent snacks to keep going. That “I can’t skip breakfast or I’ll crash” feeling? It’s not lack of willpower — it’s your mitochondria waving the white flag. 💨 The Overload Problem When you constantly overfeed your cells — too much sugar, processed fat, or just too much food — mitochondria can’t keep up. They start producing “smoke” in the form of free radicals. Over time, this creates oxidative stress, damaging your proteins, membranes, and DNA. It’s the invisible corrosion that accelerates aging. 💤 Lifestyle, Not Luck While some mitochondrial decline happens naturally with age, most of it comes from modern living — poor sleep, chronic stress, processed food, alcohol, and inactivity. These don’t just make you tired; they literally wear down your cells. The good news? The opposite is true too. You can rebuild cellular strength through simple, repeatable habits that compound over time. 🏃‍♀️ Building New Mitochondria Your body can make new mitochondria — a process called mitochondrial biogenesis. Exercise (especially Zone 2 cardio), consistent sleep, balanced nutrition, and hormetic stressors (like cold exposure or fasting) signal your body to “hire new workers.” More mitochondria = more energy, better fat burning, and slower aging. Real-Life Cellular Health Checklist Prioritize daily movement — especially steady-state cardio. Eat nutrient-dense foods and avoid constant grazing. Get consistent, high-quality sleep. Expose your body to small challenges: sauna, cold plunges, fasting. Reduce alcohol, smoking, and ultra-processed food. Think energy first, not calories first. The Big Picture You can’t see your mitochondria, but you can feel them. When they’re healthy, you have energy, focus, resilience, and a body that responds. When they’re not, you feel old — even if you’re not. The real secret to longevity and vitality isn’t a magic supplement or a fancy detox. It’s cellular health. It’s the simple lifestyle habits — the ones we brush off as “too small to matter” — that quietly build your cellular foundation over time. 🎧 Tune in and learn how to become the CEO of your own cellular factory.Because when your cells thrive, you thrive. 🔗 Learn more at www.midlifemonth.com🔗 Explore coaching and programs at www.jlcstrong.com

Why the FDA Reclassified 17 Peptides — and What It Really Means” 💬 Episode Description The headlines said the FDA “banned 17 peptides.” But the truth? It’s not a sudden ban — it’s the inevitable fallout of peptides becoming too popular for their own good. In this episode, Joanne Lee Cornish breaks down what really happened in July, why it started with the GLP-1 explosion, and how the FDA’s new classification is reshaping the peptide world. From BPC-157 to MOTs-C and Epitalon, we’ll explore what each of the 17 peptides was known for, why compounding pharmacies can’t touch them anymore, and why large-scale human trials are still a distant dream. Joanne also dives into the biggest roadblocks — why most peptides can’t be patented, and why that makes them a direct threat to multi-billion-dollar pharmaceuticals. The result? They’re too natural to own, too effective to ignore, and too competitive for Big Pharma to tolerate. If you’re curious about where the peptide world stands now — what’s still available, what to be cautious about, and how this all ties back to the booming GLP-1 market — this 20-minute episode will bring it all together. 🧠 In This Episode What really happened in July: the FDA’s reclassification of 17 peptides Why GLP-1 drugs like semaglutide and tirzepatide triggered the crackdown A simple breakdown of what each peptide is used for — from gut repair to muscle growth How the FDA’s approval process really works (and why it costs millions) The two biggest barriers to legitimizing peptides:1️⃣ You can’t patent what nature already makes2️⃣ They compete directly with blockbuster drugs Why Big Pharma has zero incentive to fund peptide trials The gray zone: peptides still available through research labs — and how to approach them cautiously ⚡ Key Takeaway Peptides didn’t suddenly become unsafe — they became too popular.And when something natural threatens a billion-dollar industry, regulation always follows. 🔗 Mentioned in This Episode Learn more about the peptides discussed in this episode and the science behind them: 5-Amino-1MQ – a breakthrough compound supporting muscle preservation and metabolic health: www.5amino.com SLU-PP-332 – designed to enhance cellular energy and performance: www.slu332.com 🎧 Listen & Subscribe 🎙️ Midlife Mayhem is available on all major platforms.Subscribe, share, and leave a review if you enjoyed this deep dive into the science, politics, and reality of modern health optimization.

What Your Waist Is Really Telling You (Midlife Mayhem) Episode summaryYour waist isn’t just “aesthetic”—it’s a metabolic dashboard. In this episode, Joanne breaks down why central fat (especially visceral fat) screams insulin resistance, tanks testosterone in men, drives unfavorable estrogen dynamics in women, and turns up the dial on inflammation, fatty liver, and long-term disease risk. You’ll learn simple ways to measure risk at home, where the classic inch cut-offs came from, why waist-to-height ratio may be even better, and how to shrink visceral fat without living in the gym. Quick hits The “portal theory”: belly fat drains inflammatory fats straight to your liver → insulin resistance and fatty liver. PMC+1 Risk thresholds: >35" (88 cm) for women, >40" (102 cm) for men = higher cardiometabolic risk. NHLBI, NIH+1 Waist-to-Height Ratio: aim for <0.5 (waist less than half your height). Works for adults and kids. PMC+1 Men: more visceral fat ↔ lower testosterone; losing central fat helps restore it. PMC+2PMC+2 Women (post-meno): larger waistlines link to higher breast-cancer risk. PMC+1 What we cover Why waist beats BMI for individuals (and where BMI still helps). Health How visceral fat hijacks metabolism (liver first, then the rest). ScienceDirect Hormones: low T in men; estrogen metabolism and risk signals in women. PMC+2PMC+2 Why kids’ waists matter now (same <0.5 rule applies). PMC Stress, sleep, and the “cortisol waistline” loop (why stress management isn’t optional). Fixes that actually work (beyond “eat less, move more”). How to measure at home (30 seconds) Stand, relax, tape measure just above hip bones (at the navel level works for consistency). Exhale normally; measure without sucking in. Note waist in inches/centimeters and your height. Calculate WHtR = waist ÷ height. Target <0.5. NHLBI, NIH+1 Science spotlight (plain-English) Portal theory: Visceral fat drains to the liver via the portal vein, delivering free fatty acids and inflammatory signals → liver insulin resistance → higher glucose and triglycerides. PMC+1 Hormones & midlife: Central adiposity lowers male testosterone (partly via SHBG changes and inflammation); reductions in waist often improve T. PMC+1 Women & cancer risk: In post-menopause, higher waist/central fat correlates with higher breast-cancer risk—another reason to track the tape, not just the scale. PMC+1 Why WHtR wins: It adjusts for height and flags risk across ages and ethnicities; <0.5 is a practical universal cut-off (including children). PMC Action plan (doable this week) Protein first: 1 g per lb of goal body weight (your signature guidance) to protect muscle and make fat loss easier. Two strength sessions + two brisk cardio blocks: Short, consistent training beats heroic weekends. Fiber up: Aim 30–40 g/day from real food; helps glycemic control and appetite. Carb timing: Push starchy carbs around training or active windows. Sleep & stress: 7–8 hrs, and one daily stress-down tool (walks, breathwork, yoga). Track two numbers for 8 weeks: waist (in) and WHtR. If they’re falling, visceral fat is falling. Resources mentioned Risk cut-offs (US guidance): Women >35", Men >40". NHLBI, NIH+1 WHtR guide (<0.5): Adults & children. PMC Mechanism explainer (portal theory): Why belly fat hits the liver first. PMC+1 Links & how to connect Programs & details: midlifemonth.com (Mastering Midlife) Coaching, programs, and supplements: theshrinkshop.com Podcast hub: joanneleecornish.podbean.com Deep dives on 5-Amino-1MQ and SLU-PP-332: 5amino.com, slu332.com Email Joanne: jo@theshrinkshop.com

👉 Mastering Midlife starts this Sunday! This is my most in-depth program of the year, and inside we’ll cover everything from hormones to metabolism to why weight loss feels harder in midlife. In this episode, I’ll also give you a sneak peek into one of our topics: plateaus—why they happen, and what to do when your body stalls. If you’re ready to finally understand your body in midlife (instead of fighting it), join us at www.midlifemonth.com. 👅 What This Episode is About Ever wondered why your best friend thinks cilantro is fresh and zesty, but you swear it tastes like dish soap? Or why coconut oil makes some people swoon, while others gag like they’ve just inhaled vomit fumes? Spoiler: it’s not drama—it’s genetics. In this episode of Midlife Mayhem, I break down the science of taste and why we’re all living in slightly different “flavor universes.” You’ll learn how genes control what we taste, why some of us are cursed with bitter broccoli, and how your sweet tooth might actually be written into your DNA. And as a bonus, I’ll walk you through one of the biggest frustrations in weight loss: plateaus. You’ll hear why your body stalls, what’s happening under the hood, and the strategies I use with clients to break through and keep momentum going. 🧬 Highlights from the Episode Genes 101: your body’s instruction manuals and why they shape your food experience. The five main tastes (sweet, salty, sour, bitter, umami) and how most “flavor” is actually smell. 🌿 Cilantro (OR6A2 gene): soap or salsa, depending on your DNA. 🥥 Coconut oil & butyric acid (TAS2R38 + OR51E1): why some people gag—and why those genes are also tied to sweet preference. 🥦 Broccoli & Brussels sprouts (TAS2R38): bitter for some, fine for others. ☕ Caffeine metabolism (CYP1A2): why some people thrive on coffee while others shake. 🍷 Alcohol flush (ALDH2): the “red face” gene. 🥦 Asparagus pee (OR2M7): the gene that decides if you can smell it. 🍭 Artificial sweeteners (TAS1R2/TAS1R3): sweet vs. metallic aftertaste. 🔄 Can taste change? Yes—palate training, exposure therapy, sugar sensitivity resets. ⚖️ Plateaus: the science behind them and how to break through when progress stalls. 🎯 Why This Matters Your genes influence what foods you love, hate, or find downright disgusting. But while DNA sets the stage, your habits, diet, and mindset decide how you adapt. You can actually learn to enjoy healthier foods, break through plateaus, and make midlife your strongest chapter yet. 👉 Join me for Mastering Midlife—starting this Sunday. Don’t waste another year wondering why your body feels stuck. Learn how to work with your genetics, hormones, and metabolism instead of fighting them. ➡️ Sign up now at www.midlifemonth.com

Episode Title: Why the WHI Study Still Misguides Midlife Women + Why Birth Control Isn’t Hormone Therapy Episode Overview Mastering Midlife starts on SUNDAY (Sept 21) www.midlifemonth.com   In this episode of Midlife Mayhem, Joanne Lee Cornish breaks down one of the most damaging studies in women’s health history—the Women’s Health Initiative (WHI)—and explains how its flawed design still shapes the way doctors approach hormone replacement therapy (HRT) today. She also explores why so many women in their 40s and 50s are prescribed birth control as “hormone therapy”, why it might feel like it works, and why the long-term consequences can be deeply concerning. This conversation is not just for women—men face their own version of hormonal decline in midlife, and understanding both journeys creates stronger health, stronger relationships, and a deeper level of compassion. What You’ll Learn in This Episode The WHI Study: What Went Wrong Conducted in the 1990s, cost nearly $1 billion, involved 160,000 women. The average participant age was 63—decades older than the women HRT was meant to study. Participants were often overweight, hypertensive, or smokers—factors that skewed results. The hormones tested (Premarin + Provera) were outdated, synthetic formulations rarely used today. Relative Risk vs Absolute Risk: How the Media Got It Wrong Headlines screamed “26% increase in breast cancer risk.” Actual increase was from 3 in 1,000 women to 3.8 in 1,000. A frightening relative risk became a misleading headline that terrified women and doctors, leading to decades of confusion and reluctance to prescribe HRT. The Fallout That Still Shapes Midlife Care Today Doctors stopped prescribing HRT. A generation of physicians received little-to-no training in modern, bioidentical hormone therapy. Millions of women were left without proper guidance during midlife. Birth Control as HRT: Why It’s Not the Same Birth control suppresses natural hormone production instead of replacing what’s missing. It significantly lowers testosterone—a key hormone for energy, mood, libido, and muscle tone. Higher risks of clots and stroke, especially in women over 35, smokers, or those with metabolic issues. Doctors prescribe it out of familiarity, insurance coverage, and convenience—not because it’s the best solution. Why Testosterone Matters in Midlife Women Already declining naturally, testosterone is further suppressed by birth control. Leads to reduced strength, energy, motivation, and intimacy. Many women don’t connect these struggles back to suppressed testosterone until years later. Men and Midlife: The Overlooked Journey Women’s hormonal chaos hits in their 40s, men’s decline (andropause) often creeps in during their 50s. The mismatch in timing creates tension, frustration, and distance in relationships. Understanding each other’s hormonal journeys builds patience, compassion, and stronger partnerships. Why This Matters We’ve spent over two decades living with the fallout of a flawed study. If you’ve been scared of HRT, or if your doctor avoids the conversation, this episode will help you understand why—and how to ask better questions, find the right practitioners, and take control of your midlife journey. Call to Action This episode is just the beginning. If you want to go deeper, get real strategies, and finally master your midlife years, join my Mastering Midlife Program—starting Sunday, September 21. 👉 www.midlifemonth.com This program only runs once a year. You’ll get: Live coaching calls (not a faceless webinar—you’ll be known by name) Access to an exclusive content library Practical, science-backed strategies for hormones, health, and body composition A supportive group of like-minded men and women navigating midlife together As one past participant said: “I didn’t want to join. My wife dragged me in. But this program did more for our marriage than two years of t

Welcome to Midlife Mayhem! For the first time, I’m not just talking to you through your headphones — I’m also filming this for YouTube. So if you’d rather see me chatting through today’s episode, head over to (joanne lee cornish)  my YouTube channel.  Today, I want to share some of the lesser-known supplement pairings I personally use and keep on hand. These aren’t your typical multivitamins or fish oils — they’re unique stacks that I pull out a couple of times a month when I need them. And since my Mastering Midlife Program kicks off on September 21, I thought this was the perfect time to give you a preview. 🍶 DHM + L-Cysteine: My “Alcohol Insurance” Stack Okay, let’s talk about what I jokingly call my going-out stack. If I know I’m going to enjoy a glass of wine or two, this is what I reach for: DHM (Dihydromyricetin): When you drink alcohol, your liver breaks it down in steps. First, ethanol (the alcohol in your drink) is broken down into acetaldehyde — and that’s the nasty stuff that makes you feel headachy, nauseous, and sluggish. Your body has an enzyme called acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, which converts that toxic acetaldehyde into harmless acetic acid (basically vinegar). The catch? Your liver can only work at a steady pace — it doesn’t speed up just because you had three margaritas. Research shows DHM can help upregulate acetaldehyde dehydrogenase, essentially nudging your body to clear out that toxic middle step faster. L-Cysteine: This one is an amino acid that helps your body make glutathione, your master antioxidant. Think of glutathione as your liver’s cleanup crew — it sweeps away leftover toxins and free radicals so you can recover more quickly. By taking L-Cysteine with DHM, you’re not only speeding up the breakdown of alcohol but also giving your body extra tools to handle the oxidative stress that comes with drinking. 💡 How I use it: If I know I’ll have more than one drink, I take one capsule of DHM (around 350–500 mg) and one capsule of L-Cysteine (500 mg) after my first drink. Honestly, if I only have one glass, I don’t need them, but I’ll often still take them — it just helps me feel clearer and better the next day. And here’s the kicker: these are simple, inexpensive supplements. The DHM I use is by Nutricost, and the L-Cysteine is by NOW — but you don’t have to stick to those brands. They’re basic compounds, no need to overpay for a fancy “hangover pill” when you can pair them yourself for less than $30 and get way more doses. ⚡️ Alpha GPC + DLPA: The Focus & Flow Stack Now, let’s shift gears to another duo I love — not for social nights out, but for when I need serious focus and mental clarity. This is my deep work stack, perfect for writing, planning, or any project that requires a lot of brainpower. DLPA (DL-Phenylalanine): This supplement is a blend of two mirror-image forms of the amino acid phenylalanine. The L-form is a precursor to dopamine — the neurotransmitter responsible for motivation, focus, and drive. Think of dopamine as the spark that helps you get things done. The D-form works differently: it helps slow the breakdown of endorphins, those natural “feel-good” chemicals your body releases when you laugh, exercise, or enjoy a great meal. By keeping your endorphins around longer, it helps sustain a positive, motivated state. Alpha GPC (L-alpha-glycerylphosphorylcholine): This is a highly bioavailable source of choline, which your brain uses to make acetylcholine — a neurotransmitter tied to learning, memory, and focus. Think of it as premium fuel for your brain’s communication system. When acetylcholine is abundant, neurons fire more efficiently, and everything feels clearer and sharper. 💡 How I use it: I don’t take these every day. For me, it’s more of a “power button” stack. If I know I need a solid 2–3 hours of uninterrupted writing, content creation, or really intense focus, I’ll take one DLPA and one Alpha GPC together. About 20–30 minutes later, it fe

Recorded: September 6 (rainy morning in Idaho 🌧️)Host: Joanne Lee CornishTheme: Cutting through the “too simple” and the “too complex” to the useful middle—so you actually know what to do and why it works. Why this episode matters There’s a giant gap in health education: on one side, fluffy tips (“eat healthy fats!”); on the other, firehose-science that sounds impressive but leaves you asking, …now what? This episode lives in the middle. You’ll get plain-English explanations of high-value concepts and, more importantly, how to implement them for midlife results. ⚡️ Heads up: Enrollment for Mastering Midlife starts really soon. It’s a 10-Step to Success program with live coaching plus a full content library so you can learn at your own pace. Details below. Episode Highlights 1) The “Gap” I Fill (00:29–03:31) The internet swings between oversimplified advice and overcomplicated biohacking. Most people don’t need more noise—they need actionable explanations and a clear progression. That’s why my programs are designed as a journey—not 10 random Zooms. 2) Why a Progressive Framework Works (03:01–04:46) Mastering Midlife follows a 10-step sequence across bloodwork, smart nutrition, supplements, exercise, and strength training. Each step builds on the last so you can understand, apply, and sustain. 3) Buzzwords You Hear Everywhere—Decoded (04:46–10:07) We name the elephant in the room: terms are tossed around like everyone learned this in school (we didn’t). This series clarifies the why and the how so you can use the info. Topics called out: mitochondria, cellular energy, NAD+, autophagy, mTOR/AMPK, BDNF, leptin resistance, metabolic flexibility, glycation, inflamaging, photobiomodulation, peptides (BPC-157, tesamorelin, GHK), exosomes, stem cells, senescent cells, HRV, cold exposure/brown fat, methylation, zonulin, LPS, histamine intolerance, oxalates, collagen cross-linking, microdosing, sarcopenia, longevity genes, and more. 4) Deep Dives (Plain English) A) Mitochondria & Cellular Energy (10:07–18:43) Mitochondria are more than “little batteries.” They decide: How efficiently you burn fat How much energy is available to brain/muscle/organs How quickly you age Cellular energy = ability to produce ATP (the “currency of life”). Low ATP → fatigue, cravings, slow recovery, poor gains. Support via quality food, smart meal timing (including some fasting), resistance training, sleep, and light (e.g., red light therapy). B) NAD+ & Why Everyone’s Talking About It (18:43–23:54) NAD+ is a coenzyme required to turn food into usable energy. Levels decline with age. You’ll hear about NR/NMN (precursors). Lifestyle also protects NAD (exercise, sleep, fasting). 5-Amino-1MQ (which I carry) supports your own NAD production. Warning: medications may create great scale changes, but cellular health still matters—don’t abandon the basics. C) Microbiome Diversity (24:19–29:49) Think of your gut like a rainforest—diversity = resilience. Diverse microbes = better digestion, vitamins, hormone balance, immune regulation, even mood/cognition (gut-brain axis). Midlife naturally reduces diversity. Counter it by: Eliminating ultra-processed foods (non-negotiable) Eating more fiber (feeds good bacteria) Including fermented foods (adds good bacteria) D) LPS & Leaky Gut—The Silent Saboteur (29:49–34:35) LPS (lipopolysaccharide) lives on certain gut bacteria. Fine inside the gut; toxic if it leaks out. With leaky gut, LPS escapes → big immune reaction → systemic inflammation, brain fog, joint pain, fatigue, insulin resistance, mood issues; linked with autoimmunity. Drivers: ultra-processed food, irritants, toxins, antibiotics, high sugar. I have a free leaky gut video—email me. E) Oxidative Stress (34:57–41:51) When cells make energy, free radicals (sparks) are created. Antioxidants are the cleanup crew. If sparks build up without cleanup, you get a fire = oxidative

Show Notes – Midlife Mayhem Podcast Episode Type: Venting / Educational RantProgram Mentioned: Mastering Midlife (Sept 21 – Nov 1) → www.midlifemonth.com 🎙️ Episode Overview In this episode, Joanne takes aim at a recent Telegraph article that claimed you can lose weight without losing muscle by following outdated and misleading advice. From the laughably low protein recommendations (45g/day for women) to the suggestion that light weights and bodyweight exercise are enough for midlife muscle preservation, Jo breaks down why this kind of misinformation is dangerous—not just frustrating. This episode is raw, fiery, and unapologetic—a venting session that highlights why midlife is not the time for “everyone gets a trophy” advice. Instead, it’s the time for clear, science-backed strategies that actually protect muscle, metabolism, and long-term vitality. 🔥 Key Topics Covered 1. Why 45g of Protein is a Joke The article recommended ~0.75 g/kg of protein per day (≈45g for women, 55g for men). Joanne explains why this 1960s RDA guideline is dangerously outdated and fails to account for modern research, especially in midlife when anabolic resistance sets in. For true muscle preservation, most adults need closer to 1.6–2.2 g/kg bodyweight. That’s triple what the article suggested. 2. Anabolic Resistance: The Silent Muscle Killer Jo breaks down the science of anabolic resistance and its connection to insulin resistance: Insulin resistance → harder to move glucose into muscle. Anabolic resistance → harder to move amino acids into muscle. Result: even if you think you’re eating enough protein, your muscles may not be getting fed. Why this matters: muscle loss accelerates with age, even for people who “do all the right things,” unless nutrition and training are dialed in. 3. The “Light Weights & Pilates” Trap The article claimed bodyweight training, yoga, Pilates, and light weights with high reps are “enough” for muscle preservation in midlife. Joanne explains why this is not effective for building or maintaining meaningful lean mass. Strength training needs progressive overload—challenging resistance that forces muscles to adapt. While bodyweight and Pilates have benefits, they don’t replace structured resistance training for midlife muscle protection. 4. Why This Matters Beyond Vanity Holding onto muscle isn’t about just looking “toned”—it’s about survival and independence later in life. Without enough muscle: Metabolism plummets. Fatigue and frailty increase. Quality of life in your 70s and 80s diminishes sharply. Midlife is the one opportunity to re-route the trajectory of aging—miss it, and the next chapter becomes exponentially harder. 5. The Problem With Mainstream Advice Articles like this reinforce mediocrity disguised as inclusivity: “everyone’s a winner” messaging. Jo argues this robs people of their chance to succeed because they’re never told the truth about what’s necessary. Clear, accurate information empowers people to do the work—and it doesn’t need to be complicated. It just needs to be correct. 6. Midlife as the Opportunity Window Too many people fear midlife without realizing the real fear should be what comes after if they don’t act now. Midlife = chance to reset metabolism, protect muscle, preserve energy, and ensure the later decades of life are vibrant. Ignore it, and the outcome is predictable: loss of muscle, independence, and quality of life. 💡 Cutting-Edge Add-Ons Protein Distribution Matters → It’s not just how much protein you eat, but how you spread it through the day (aim for 25–40g per meal with sufficient leucine). The Role of Resistance Training → Strength training triggers mTOR and muscle protein synthesis. Lighter loads can work only if trained to failure—but that’s rarely sustainable. Metabolic Flexibility → Without muscle, the body loses its best tool for glucose disposal and fat utilization, fueling insulin resista

Midlife Mayhem – August 27, 2025 SLU-PP-332, 5-Amino-1MQ, and the Truth About Midlife Muscle & Fat Hey friends, welcome back to Midlife Mayhem! I’ve just returned from a whirlwind trip through England and Greece—a mix of family remembrance, laughter, tears, chaos, and joy. I’m running on jet lag fumes, but I wanted to sit down and share something important with you today: two breakthrough compounds that could be absolute game-changers for midlife body composition—SLU-PP-332 and 5-Amino-1MQ. 👉 SLU-PP-332 is now available at www.slu332.com👉 5-Amino-1MQ is available at www.5amino.com👉 You can also buy both together at a discounted bundle price on either site. And don’t forget—my Mastering Midlife program kicks off September 21 – November 1. Learn more and sign up at www.midlifemonth.com. SLU-PP-332 – The "Exercise Mimicker" SLU-PP-332 attaches to a receptor on muscle cells and nudges them to burn fat for fuel. By pushing muscles toward fat oxidation, it increases endurance, mimics the benefits of cardio, and protects muscle mass during calorie restriction. This is why it’s often nicknamed an “exercise mimicker.” In animal studies, it improved fat burning, increased endurance, and prevented muscle loss in calorie-restricted conditions. Caveat: High doses over time may encourage fast-twitch fibers (the power fibers we lose with age) to behave more like slow-twitch endurance fibers. The solution? Always pair SLU-PP-332 with resistance training. 5-Amino-1MQ – The Fat Cell "Brake Remover" 5-Amino-1MQ is a small molecule inhibitor that blocks the enzyme NNMT. Why that matters: NNMT rises with age and acts like a metabolic brake, making fat cells better at storing fat and slowing NAD+ recycling. By inhibiting NNMT, 5-Amino-1MQ: Keeps NAD+ levels higher → better mitochondrial health and energy. Reduces fat cell size and fat storage. Lowers inflammation. Helps preserve muscle through improved cellular energy. I’ve been taking it for three years with consistent results—including not gaining weight on trips where, historically, I would have put on 3–5 lbs (despite extra eating, less routine, and long-haul flights). Together: A One-Two Punch SLU-PP-332 → tells muscles to burn fat as fuel and boosts endurance. 5-Amino-1MQ → prevents fat cells from storing more fat and supports cellular energy. Different mechanisms, same goal: preserve muscle, burn more fat, and fight midlife metabolic slowdown. You don’t have to take them together, but combined they offer a unique, complementary strategy. Why This Matters in Midlife Midlife frustrations—slower fat loss, muscle loss, stubborn belly fat, fatigue—are exactly what these compounds address. Unlike GLP-1 weight-loss medications, these compounds don’t rely on suppressing appetite (which often leads to muscle loss you may never regain in midlife). Instead, they support muscle protection, energy, fat burning, and inflammation reduction—without making it hard to eat protein or train. My Personal Update Even during my two-week Europe trip—with flights, disrupted routines, and plenty of restaurant meals—I came back the exact same weight I left. In the past, I’d always gain several pounds of bloat and fat. Since using 5-Amino-1MQ, that hasn’t happened once in three years of testing it. Next, I’m excited to test SLU-PP-332 specifically for endurance—since it’s shown to improve performance in longer-duration exercise. Mastering Midlife – Starts September 21 This is my flagship 6-week program for anyone 40+ who wants to feel sharp, strong, and capable in midlife and beyond. Format: Two live Zoom coaching calls per week, for three weeks → one week off to catch up → then another two weeks of coaching. Dates: September 21 – November 1 Access: Full library of 70+ content pieces plus direct access to me throughout. Cost: $529 (payment plan available). Sign up: www.midlifemonth.com Topics we’ll cover include: Optimized nut

We tend to think of the liver as “the detox organ.” We imagine green juice cleanses, detox teas, and vague ideas about “flushing toxins.” But your liver is so much more than that — it’s a powerhouse that affects every aspect of your body composition, from how much fat you store to how much energy you have. And while the liver is incredibly resilient (it can literally regrow after being partially removed), modern lifestyles are pushing it past its limits. That’s why we’re now seeing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) not just in adults, but alarmingly, in children. In this episode, we’re diving deep into: 1. The Liver’s Role in Fat Storage and Fat Burning The liver makes fat — it’s not meant to store it.Excess sugar in your diet is converted in the liver into triglycerides (fat) and released into your bloodstream, where it eventually gets stored on your body. When the liver is overwhelmed and can’t push fat out fast enough, it starts storing it internally — that’s how fatty liver develops. 2. Your Liver as Your Energy Bank About 75% of stored carbs (glycogen) live in your muscles — but muscle glycogen is locked away for personal use. Your biceps can’t “share” their carbs with the rest of your body. The liver’s glycogen, however, can be broken down into glucose and released into your blood to keep your energy steady between meals, during sleep, or under stress. If your blood sugar stays high even when you’ve cut carbs, your liver may be releasing stored glucose — often a sign of insulin resistance. 3. The Liver’s Impact on Hormones Cortisol clearance: The liver inactivates cortisol, helping prevent the muscle loss, midsection fat gain, water retention, collagen breakdown, and cravings that come with high cortisol. Thyroid activation: The liver converts inactive T4 thyroid hormone into active T3 — your metabolism’s “go” signal. Poor liver function can mean slower metabolism and stubborn fat. 4. How Modern Lifestyles Damage the Liver Insulin resistance: A high-carb, low-activity lifestyle keeps insulin elevated. Overexposure makes the liver resistant to insulin’s signal, tricking it into thinking blood sugar is low — so it makes more sugar through gluconeogenesis, adding to the problem. Leaky gut: Low-fiber, high-sugar, ultra-processed diets damage the gut lining. Toxins and undigested food particles leak into the bloodstream, triggering constant inflammation. That inflammation travels to — and damages — liver cells. Poor food quality: You can’t out-supplement or out-macro a bad diet. “Weekend junk” and overly restrictive eating both take their toll on gut and liver health. 5. Why This Matters for Body Composition A healthy liver helps you: Efficiently use stored energy between meals (no energy crashes) Convert thyroid hormones for optimal metabolism Clear cortisol so you preserve muscle and control fat storage Avoid fat buildup in the liver, which is linked to systemic inflammation and metabolic slowdown When the liver is struggling, everything from fat loss to hormone balance to workout recovery becomes harder. Key Takeaway The liver is a workhorse — but it’s underappreciated and often abused. If your fat loss has stalled, your energy is inconsistent, or your hormones are out of balance, your liver might be the missing link. 📅 Next Live Program – Mastering Midlife (Sept 14 – Oct 25)If you’re ready to reset your metabolism, balance your hormones, and build a lean, strong body in midlife, join me for my ever-popular Mastering Midlife program. This year’s live program includes: 11 live coaching calls over 5 weeks (with a built-in review week so you can catch up) Meal plans, workouts, and supplement guidance Deep dives into the 6 hormones that change with age Sessions on exercise adjustments, nutrition upgrades, HRT/TRT, peptides, biohacks, and more Men and women welcome — and the results are incredible We only run this once a year live. Reserve your spot to

We’ve all heard the term GMO — genetically modified organisms — and most of us know it’s controversial. But there’s a newer, slicker technology making its way into our food supply that’s flying under the radar: gene editing. It’s marketed as “natural,” it’s not always labeled, and it’s already on supermarket shelves. The problem? Most consumers have no idea it’s there… or what it could mean for our health. In this episode, I pull back the curtain on: What gene editing actually is — how it differs from GMO technology, and why industry insiders argue it shouldn’t require labeling. The rapid takeover of GMO crops in the U.S., from their quiet introduction to dominating over 90% of certain harvests in less than a decade. Why Europe bans or strictly controls GMOs under the “precautionary principle” — and why the U.S. does the opposite, requiring proof of harm rather than proof of safety. The glyphosate connection — and the staggering increases in allowable residues on soy, corn, wheat, and even animal feed (including a 2,000-fold increase on alfalfa). How altered protein patterns in gene-edited plants and animals could confuse the immune system, potentially leading to chronic inflammation, autoimmune issues, and other long-term health risks. Examples already in circulation: non-browning mushrooms, disease-resistant bananas, slick-coated cattle, faster-growing salmon, and more. The labeling loophole: why most gene-edited products don’t have to be labeled in the U.S., and how companies use terms like “bioengineered” or QR codes instead of clear wording. The eerie historical parallels with cigarettes and opioids — early warning signs ignored, public assurances of safety, and decades before the truth came out. I also share practical, actionable steps you can take now to reduce your exposure, including how to identify higher-risk foods, what to look for on labels, and why “100% organic” is a very different standard from “organic.” This isn’t fearmongering — it’s about being informed and proactive before the “monster” grows too big to contain. 📅 Don’t Miss My Next Live Coaching Program – Mastering Midlife If you want to reclaim your energy, optimize your hormones, and build a lean, strong body in midlife and beyond, now is the time to join the ever-popular Mastering Midlife program. Live from September 14 – October 25, 2025, this year’s program is bigger and better than ever, with a brand-new pacing designed for busy lives: 11 live coaching calls over five weeks (3 weeks on, 1 week off to catch up, then 2 final weeks) Expert-led sessions on the six hormones that shift in midlife, how to adapt your training, how to fine-tune your nutrition, plus deep dives into HRT, TRT, peptides, biohacks, skin and muscle health, and more Structured meal plans, targeted workouts, and supplement guidance included The chance to connect with a motivated, like-minded community — men and women welcome Only runs once per year in the live format — payment plan available Reserve your spot at www.midlifemonth.com and step into the healthiest, strongest version of yourself.

If you’ve ever left Starbucks feeling bloated, sluggish, or… ahem… blocked up for days, you’re not imagining things.In this episode, I dive deep into why Starbucks hits your gut differently than your local coffee shop. From dark roasted beans and ultra-pasteurized milk to highly processed plant-based alternatives and the whole A1 vs A2 milk debate, I break down exactly what’s going on — and why it matters for your digestion, energy, and even your waistline. I also explain why even if you don’t think you’re lactose intolerant, you might still react to certain dairy proteins — and how a simple milk swap could make a world of difference. This topic comes straight out of my Tight28 program’s dairy module, so if you’ve been struggling with gut discomfort, unexplained puffiness, or sluggish digestion, you’ll definitely want to listen in. What You’ll Learn in This Episode ☕ The Coffee Factor Why Starbucks uses very dark roasted beans — and how this affects bitterness, bile release, and gut motility. How ultra-high volume roasting and older beans can increase oxidized oils — and why oxidized oils = gut irritation. Why your local café’s medium roast and fresher beans are usually gentler on digestion. 🥛 The Dairy Factor The difference between regular pasteurization and ultra-pasteurization — and how extreme heat denatures milk proteins like casein. Why casein (especially A1 beta-casein) is already hard to digest — and how ultra-pasteurization makes it worse. Why large latte servings = large dairy hits that can trigger bloating and constipation. 🌱 The Milk Alternative Trap Why Starbucks oat, almond, and soy milks are highly processed and full of gums and emulsifiers. How gums/emulsifiers can damage gut lining, worsen leaky gut, and trigger bloating or sluggish digestion. Why oat milk’s beta-glucans and residual enzymes can ferment in the gut and cause discomfort. 🐄 A1 vs A2 Milk Explained A1 milk (common in U.S. dairy from Holstein cows) contains a beta-casein variant that releases BCM-7 during digestion. BCM-7 slows gut motility, irritates the gut lining, and can trigger histamine release → bloating, puffiness, water retention. A2 milk (from Jersey/Guernsey cows, goats, sheep, buffalo) produces minimal BCM-7 — often eliminating symptoms entirely. Why switching to A2 can be a game-changer for digestion, even if you’re not lactose intolerant. Key Takeaways Starbucks’ combination of dark roast bitterness, ultra-pasteurized A1 milk, and/or processed plant milks can be a “perfect storm” for gut issues. If you want to keep enjoying coffee without the digestive misery: Switch to medium roast, freshly ground beans. Use A2 dairy or goat/sheep/buffalo milk. Skip processed plant milks with gums/emulsifiers. Try smaller coffee sizes or Americano-style drinks instead of milk-heavy lattes. Gut irritation isn’t just about discomfort — it can contribute to systemic inflammation, histamine buildup, and even changes in body composition. Want to Go Deeper? This episode barely scratches the surface of what I teach in Tight28, my 28-day program designed to uncover hidden food sensitivities, calm inflammation, and get your digestion — and your body composition — working in your favor. Check it out here: www.jlcstrong.com Resources & Links Mentioned 5-Amino-1MQ: www.5amino.com My upcoming SLU-PP-332 release — stay tuned! Email me anytime with questions: jo@theshrinkshop.com If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who’s still wondering why their Starbucks habit might be causing their gut drama.

If you’ve hit a plateau with your workouts… if you're gaining fat despite training hard… or if you're feeling constantly tired and inflamed, your bloodwork might have the answers. In this episode, we dive into: What the DHEA-to-cortisol ratio really tells you about stress, recovery, and resilience The exact numbers you want to see (with examples) Key blood markers like CK, AST, LDH, CRP, and what they reveal about muscle breakdown How to interpret patterns that signal overtraining or burnout Because you don’t build muscle in the gym—you build it when you're recovering properly. Let's make sure you're set up to build, not break down. 🔬 DHEA-to-Cortisol Ratio: What It Means Hormone Ratio What It Means ✅ ≥ 10:1 Healthy recovery, strong stress resilience, good environment for fat loss & muscle gain ⚠️ ≤ 5:1 Stress outweighs recovery; may stall progress, impair sleep, increase fat storage ❌ ≤ 2:1 Burnout, poor training response, HPA axis dysfunction, inflammation, fatigue   🧮 Example Calculations: DHEA-S 150 / Cortisol 10 = 15:1 ✅ DHEA-S 90 / Cortisol 18 = 5:1 ⚠️ DHEA-S 40 / Cortisol 22 = 1.8:1 ❌ 💪 Blood Markers That Reveal Muscle Breakdown Marker Optimal Range Concern Threshold What It Indicates DHEA-S W: 100–200 / M: 150–300 mcg/dL <70 (W), <100 (M) Anabolic status / stress buffer Cortisol (AM) 8–15 mcg/dL >23 (stress), <6 (burnout) Stress response or adrenal fatigue Creatine Kinase (CK) 30–150 U/L >500 = intense training, >1,000 = concern Muscle breakdown marker AST / ALT AST <40 / ALT <56 U/L AST >80 without liver issue = muscle strain Post-exercise stress or liver burden LDH 140–280 U/L >400 U/L Chronic tissue stress or poor recovery CRP (hs-CRP) <1.0 mg/L >3.0 = systemic inflammation Inflammation, potential overtraining Urea / Creatinine Urea: 10–20 / Cr: <1.2 Depends on hydration, protein, renal function Contextual clues for stress and protein turnover   🧠 What Affects These Markers? Overtraining or lack of deloads Low-carb or low-calorie diets Emotional stress and poor sleep Hormonal changes (especially in midlife) Poor gut health or chronic inflammation These markers give you insight into whether your training is building your body—or breaking it down. 🧬 New Peptides + Supplements 💊 Now Available: 5-Amino-1MQA powerful compound that supports fat loss, muscle preservation, and energy through NAD+ pathways. 🧪 Coming Late August: SLU-PP-332If you'd like to be notified the moment it's available, email me at 👉 jo@theshrinkshop.com to get on the early bird list. 💻 Looking for a Coaching Program? I have six powerful programs—covering everything from foundational weight loss to advanced body composition, hormone health, and gut repair. Each one is: ✅ Self-paced✅ Educational✅ Results-driven✅ Can be combined with private coaching for a fully customized experience 👉 Browse the full library at www.jlcstrong.comLet’s find the right fit for your body and your goals.

Midlife Mayhem Podcast – Episode Title: "Midlife Thermostat: Why You're Sweating, Freezing, and Waking Up at 3 A.M." Hosted by: Joanne Lee Cornish 🎙️ Episode Summary: In this packed episode, Joanne tackles one of the most frustrating but misunderstood midlife symptoms: temperature dysregulation. Whether you're a woman waking up drenched in sweat or a man with freezing hands and sleepless nights, your body's thermostat might be working against you. Joanne breaks down how hormonal shifts during perimenopause and andropause disrupt thermoregulation—and what you can do to reset the balance. She also shares the latest on red light therapy, the impact of stress on your nervous system, and how both men and women can support better sleep and energy by working with—not against—their biology. 🧠 Key Topics Covered: What the hypothalamus does and how it controls your internal thermostat Why women experience hot flashes and sudden chills during perimenopause How declining testosterone affects men's ability to regulate temperature The narrowing thermoneutral zone in midlife and why that matters Blood sugar crashes, cortisol spikes, and 2–4 a.m. wakeups How estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone influence your sleep architecture The nervous system’s role: sympathetic vs. parasympathetic dominance 🔧 Solutions & Biohacks Shared: Breathwork to calm the nervous system and aid sleep Red light therapy for increasing melatonin and promoting restful sleep Small protein-fat bedtime snacks to reduce blood sugar crashes Supplements that support hormonal balance: Women: DIM, calcium D-glucarate, magnesium (watch for B6 sensitivity) Men: Citrulline, beet powder, magnesium, zinc Why warm socks + cooling bedding may be your best bedtime combo Grounding sheets, sleep hygiene, and stress management techniques How resistance training and lowering belly fat helps support testosterone 🔬 Supplement Mentions: 5-Amino-1MQ – Learn more or order at: www.5amino.com Shrink Shop Sleep Formula – Natural, effective, non-habit forming sleep support: www.shrinkshopsleep.com 📍 Local Deal for Boise Listeners: Peak Personalized Healthcare is offering DEXA scans for $75 through the end of July. This includes body composition and bone density. Great value! 🧪 Coming Soon: Joanne teases the upcoming release of SLU-PP-332, a compound known for mimicking muscle contraction and supporting fat oxidation. She's working to offer this at a reasonable price—watch this space. 🔔 Stay Connected: Email Joanne at jo@theshrinkshop.com to join the mailing list and stay informed about upcoming programs like Mastering Midlife. Follow Joanne on YouTube (Joanne Lee Cornish) for detailed videos on 5-Amino-1MQ, SLU-PP-332, and more. 💬 Final Takeaway: Sleep quality, body temperature, and hormone health are deeply connected. Midlife is not the time to ignore these cues—it’s the time to understand them and respond with strategy. Whether you're burning up or freezing out, your body is speaking to you.

I have been meaning to do this podcast for months! And although I am talking about men and testosterone, ladies please pay attention. Too many men are suffering in silence as their version of menopause (Andropause) is sneaky and subtle and often dismissed.   Testosterone isn't just about muscle or libido — it's the foundation of a man’s vitality, strength, confidence, and health. But what happens when it starts to decline… and how can men fight back? In this cutting-edge episode of Midlife Mayhem, Joanne dives deep into the misunderstood world of male hormones, unpacking why testosterone declines with age, what “normal” actually means, and how lifestyle, labs, and even peptides are helping men take control. If you're a man over 40 (or you care about one), this is essential listening. 🔍 In This Episode, You'll Learn: ✅ Why testosterone declines with age — and how it’s not just aging✅ What the medical world considers “normal”… and why that’s often useless✅ The real difference between total vs. free testosterone✅ The impact of aromatase (and why belly fat makes everything worse)✅ How SHBG binds and blocks your testosterone — and what to do about it✅ Subtle signs of low testosterone most men miss✅ Top supplements to lower SHBG and aromatase naturally✅ Why TRT might not help if you carry too much fat — and how to fix that✅ The controversial but powerful role of peptides (Kisspeptin, HCG, BPC-157)✅ How the right exercise strategy can increase testosterone✅ The truth about andropause — and why it’s time we talked about it✅ How men are reclaiming their edge with smart lifestyle upgrades and testing 🧪 Mentioned in This Episode: Key labs to test: Total T, Free T, SHBG, Estradiol, DHT, Hematocrit Supplements: Zinc, Boron, Magnesium, Vitamin D, Tongkat Ali, DIM, Ashwagandha Peptides: Kisspeptin-10, HCG, CJC-1295/Ipamorelin, BPC-157 Training focus: Resistance training & HIIT over chronic cardio Optimization tip: Leaner body = better testosterone balance 🎧 Listen On: Apple Podcasts Spotify Amazon Music Podbean All Platforms » 🔗 Resources & Links: 📺 Watch related videos on YouTube: @joanneleecornish 📧 Got questions? Email Joanne directly: jo@theshrinkshop.com 💬 Connect with Joanne: Instagram: @joanneleecornish Website: www.jlcstrong.com