Midlife Mayhem

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 commit to being an outlier in midlife and beyond
New for 2026 (hopefully before)
My new website – www.JoanneLee.com – should be live in the next month, where you’ll be able to see all my programs, resources, and ways to work with me in one place.
📩 In the meantime, if you’re interested in my Elite 10-month coaching program, email me directly at joanne@joannelee.com and tell me a bit about where you are right now and what you want the next decade of your life and body to look like.
Midlife isn’t the decline everyone expects.It’s the last, best opportunity to become an outlier.

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 testosterone therapy for life, at lower doses, to maintain bone density, cognitive health, and quality of life.
Final Thoughts
Every woman deserves to enter menopause informed and empowered, not confused and blindsided.This isn’t just about hormones — it’s about identity, vitality, and confidence.
Understanding the stages allows you to prepare, protect your long-term health, and take control of your own story. Because menopause isn’t an ending — it’s a recalibration. And with the right support, it can be one of the strongest, healthiest chapters of your life.
🎧 Listen to the full episode now to learn how to recognize the signs, support your hormones, and make informed choices that serve you.
🔗 Learn more at www.midlifemonth.com🔗 Explore coaching and programs at www.jlcstrong.com

 
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 therapy.”
Don’t wait—this is your chance to stop guessing, stop Googling, and start thriving.
✨ Midlife may feel like mayhem, but with the right knowledge and strategy, it becomes the best chapter yet.

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 feels like the fog lifts, I’ve got more drive, and I can really lock in.
Are they stimulants? Not in the jittery, wired way that coffee or pre-workouts can be. You don’t get the crash. Instead, it’s like your brain is clicking into gear — smooth energy, clearer thinking, better recall.
🧘 Mastering Midlife Program — Starts September 21!
If all of this has your brain buzzing and you want to learn more about how to use supplements (without the confusion or hype), then I’d love to invite you to join me in the Mastering Midlife Program, starting September 21st.
Here’s what you’ll get:
🔟 Live coaching calls over 6 weeks — each one covering a key pillar of thriving in midlife.
📚 A growing library of 70+ pieces of content — with strategies, deep dives, and explanations you can access for a full year.
🎯 My top 5 everyday supplements that I recommend for everyone, plus specialized “a la carte” options for specific needs like sleep, focus, skin health, bone strength, and more.
👩‍🏫 Direct access to me during the live program to answer your questions and guide you step by step.
Midlife is not something to dread — it’s your chance to step into a vibrant new chapter of strength, energy, and confidence. But you need the right tools and strategies to make that happen. That’s exactly what we’ll cover in this program.
👉 We start September 21st. Spots are limited.Check out all the details here: midlifemonth.com
✨ Thanks so much for tuning into Midlife Mayhem! If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend who might find it helpful. And if you want the full supplement deep dive (plus all my midlife optimization strategies), join us inside the program.
Brands mentioned DHM (nutricost) L cysteine (NOW)  DLPA (Life Extension) Alpha GPC (NOW)

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 stress.
Result: faster aging (wrinkles), joint issues, chronic disease risk, low energy.
Fix the inputs: whole foods, consistent activity, sleep, stress management.
As we age, internal antioxidant systems decline → diet quality matters more.
5) Big Picture (42:18–44:57)
Weight alone isn’t the game. Cellular health is.
When people understand the why, simple solutions are finally implemented—and they stick.
6) The Power of Community (45:20–46:34)
Join as a front-row participant or low-key spectator; the group dynamic accelerates results.
Coaching is not about dumping information—it’s progression + conversation.
About the Program: Mastering Midlife — 10-Step to Success
Starts soon (runs live once per year).
10 progressive steps that cover: bloodwork, smart nutrition, supplementation, strength training, recovery, metabolic health, gut health, and more.
Live coaching calls + full content library (review at your pace all year).
Small-group energy with big-league support—practical, science-backed, no extremes.
Flexible payment option: split into 3 payments.
Learn more / enroll: midlifemonth.com
Questions? jo@theshrinkshop.com
Quick Glossary (Buzzwords, Decoded)
ATP: Cellular fuel your body spends for every heartbeat, thought, and muscle contraction.
Mitochondria: Cellular power plants; they influence fat-burning, energy, and aging.
NAD+: Coenzyme required for converting food to energy; declines with age.
Microbiome Diversity: Variety of gut species; more diversity = more resilience.
LPS: Toxin on certain gut bacteria; harmless in gut, inflammatory if it leaks into the bloodstream.
Oxidative Stress: Damage from excess “sparks” (free radicals) when antioxidant cleanup can’t keep up.
Do This This Week (Action Checklist)
Upgrade food quality: 80–90% whole, minimally processed foods.
Add fiber daily: Aim 25–35g—veggies, berries, legumes, ground flax, chia (if tolerated), oats.
Include fermented foods: Sauerkraut, kimchi, kefir, plain yogurt, tempeh (as tolerated).
Lift 2–4x/week: Prioritize big patterns (squat/hinge/push/pull/carry).
Sleep audit: 7–9 hours, consistent times, dark/cool room.
Light & movement: Morning outdoor light; frequent walking; consider red-light sessions.
Consider NAD support: Lifestyle first; discuss supplements if appropriate.
Curious about leaky gut? Email me for the free video.
Links & Contact
Enroll/learn more: midlifemonth.com
Email: jo@theshrinkshop.com
YouTube: Joanne Lee Cornish (long-form videos)
Speaking/Group Coaching inquiries welcome.
P.S. Want a Part 2?
If you want me to continue this series and break down more terms (mTOR/AMPK, autophagy, HRV, cold exposure, methylation, histamine intolerance, oxalates, collagen cross-linking, and more), email me and tell me which topics you want next.

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 resistance.
Hormonal Influence → Midlife shifts in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone amplify anabolic resistance—making accurate protein and strength training strategies non-negotiable.
📢 Featured Program: Mastering Midlife
Midlife doesn’t have to mean decline. Joanne’s signature Mastering Midlife program runs Sept 21 – Nov 1 and gives you the full roadmap for building muscle, balancing hormones, optimizing metabolism, and rewriting the script for your next decades.
👉 Learn more and join at www.midlifemonth.com
🧭 Listener Question
Joanne ends this rant with a question for her audience:
Should she create a dedicated program for people using weight loss medications (GLP-1s, etc.)—a short 3–4 hour video course called RX Success—to fill the massive coaching gap that doctors aren’t covering?
Email Jo your thoughts at jo@theshrinkshop.com.
✅ Bottom line: Don’t buy into outdated “light weights and 45g protein” nonsense. Midlife is your one chance to create a strong, lean, healthy body that carries you into later life with energy and independence. Do the work that’s necessary—not the fluff that gets printed in newspapers.