GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro, and Zepbound have taken center stage in conversations about weight loss—but what’s fact, what’s fiction, and what do midlife women really need to know before considering them?

In this episode of The Modern Midlife Collective, Dr. Jillian Woodruff, a board-certified gynecologist and menopause expert, and Dr. Ade Akindipe, a family nurse practitioner and functional medicine provider, take a deep dive into the world of GLP-1 receptor agonists. They explore the origins of these medications, their evolving role in both diabetes management and weight loss, and the complex factors—hormonal, psychological, and metabolic—that influence long-term success.

With a focus on safety, sustainability, and holistic health, this episode offers evidence-based guidance for women navigating midlife who are curious about GLP-1s and how they fit into a comprehensive wellness plan.

If you found this episode helpful, share it with someone who may benefit from clear, compassionate information about GLP-1s and midlife wellness. Be sure to leave us a review, subscribe to the show, and follow us on Instagram @drjillianwoodruff and @dr.ade.akindepe_dnp. Together, we’re reshaping the midlife conversation—one empowering episode at a time.

Highlights: 

• The medical origins of GLP-1s and why they’re now used for weight loss
• How hormonal shifts during perimenopause and menopause impact metabolism
• The importance of identifying root causes of weight gain before starting medication
• Side effects to watch for—including gastrointestinal issues, fatigue, and hair thinning
• The difference between FDA-approved medications and compounded versions
• Why microdosing may be beneficial in certain cases
• How GLP-1s can support behavior change—but should not replace it
• The importance of working with a knowledgeable provider for safe and effective treatment
• When GLP-1s may not be appropriate, including specific medical contraindications

Get to know the doctors behind the insights of The Modern Midlife Collective Podcast:

Ade Akindipe, DNP, MBA, APRN, FNP-C is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner, hormone and obesity specialist, and expert in metabolic and longevity medicine. She is the founder and Medical Director of Rejuvenate Health and Wellness, where she has empowered hundreds of women to reclaim their health, overcome stubborn weight challenges, and unlock vibrant energy through science-based, personalized care.

With a deep commitment to transforming the landscape of midlife health, she blends cutting-edge medical innovation with a functional, root-cause approach to wellness. She is recognized as a trusted authority in women's health and passionate about service and health equity. Dr. Akindipe also serves as Co-Chair of the Health Committee for the Alaska Black Caucus, advocating for greater access to preventive care and wellness initiatives in underrepresented communities.

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

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

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

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