Checking In On Perimenopause
Summary
Sarah Peterson and Emily J. Smith discuss the perimenopause industrial complex, analyzing how telehealth startups like Midi and Hers capitalize on women's health gaps. They debate the tension between increased access to hormone therapy and the predatory nature of for-profit wellness marketing, noting the irony of political figures endorsing treatments while opposing trans healthcare. The hosts also share personal updates on Sarah’s experience with hormone replacement therapy and critique the commodification of women’s aging.
Topics discussed
Introduction and episode overview
Personal update: Starting hormone therapy
Discussing symptoms and the 'crash out' log
The struggle of tracking mood and cycles
Doctor visit, dosage, and side effects
Wired article: The perimenopause industrial complex
MAGA endorsement and anti-aging contradictions
Critique of telehealth marketing (Hers/Midi)
Venture capital pressures and startup culture
Capitalism, wellness, and healthcare gaps
Wealth, longevity obsession, and deranged wellness
Jen Gunter's critique of predatory practices
Social enterprise disillusionment and trust
Language, branding, and the 'longevity' debate
Risk of eroding trust in medical institutions
Personal dilemmas and the need for proper care
Good Thing: Nathan Fielder's new documentary
Good Thing: Dahlia season
Consumption Club announcement and outro
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