Over 50 & Frank

Shannon Hinderberger

Over 50 & Frank is a podcast for women who are done whispering about aging. Hosted by Shannon Hinderberger, this show is where the filter comes off and the real conversations begin. Around here, we talk openly about menopause, hormones, wellness, work, style, and what it actually feels like to age in a culture that would rather pretend women over 50 are invisible. This is not polished perfection or toxic positivity. It’s honest, sometimes uncomfortable, often funny, and always real. Each episode blends candid solo conversations with thoughtful discussions featuring friends, experts, and women who are navigating midlife in real time. You’ll hear about advocating for your health, questioning outdated narratives, redefining confidence, and learning how to show up fully in this season without apology. Over 50 & Frank exists to say the quiet parts out loud. It’s for women who have been told they’re too old, too late, or too much, and are ready to rewrite the story. If you’re over 50 and craving real talk about life, aging, and everything in between, pull up a chair. You’re in the right place.

Episodes

  1. 4D AGO

    Episode 11: Is PDRN a Scam?

    In this episode, Shannon is joined by skincare expert Hari-Prakash, the founder of Prakash Organics, to discuss the reality of popular skincare trends versus effective marketing strategies. The conversation focuses on helping listeners shop smarter and understand what they are applying to their skin. Key Topics and Skincare "Scams"The discussion highlights several trending skincare ingredients and practices, evaluating their effectiveness: PDRN (Polydeoxyribonucleotide): While effective when injected through mesotherapy, topical PDRN is largely a marketing trend because the molecules are too large to penetrate the skin. NAD Skincare: Described as a scam due to a lack of human trials proving its efficacy when applied topically. It is a large molecule that cannot easily enter cells; using precursors like niacinamide is recommended instead. Beef Tallow: While it acts as an occlusive to prevent transepidermal water loss (TEWL), it is often refined beyond recognition, losing its nutrients. It is similar in function to petroleum jelly but is frequently misrepresented in social media marketing for its healing properties. Collagen Supplements: These are effective for joint, hair, and skin health, but only if taken consistently—at least five times a week. Matrixyl 3000: A legitimate, patented peptide backed by studies, though consumers should ensure the product uses a therapeutic level and ideally the most updated version. Volufiline: A legitimate ryome-based ingredient that can help improve tissue plumpness by approximately 10–28%, provided it is used religiously. Reedles vs. Spicules: Spicules are natural skeletons of sea sponges used in peels to help ingredients penetrate. Reedles are a synthetic, man-made version designed to mimic this effect. Vegan Growth Factors: Often a marketing term for lab-derived growth factors. Lab-derived growth factors are effective, and many high-quality options exist at various price points. Serum Sprays: Often consist of mostly water and glycols. While they may provide antioxidant benefits, they are generally not unique or clinically powerful enough to treat major skin concerns like dark spots.Connect with the GuestHari Prakash: Founder of Prakash OrganicsWebsite: https://prakashog.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/prakash.og/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@prakash.ogFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/prakashorganicsYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@prakashog

    27 min
  2. MAR 10

    Episode 10: Plastic Surgery Over 50: Choice, Pressure, and Aging on Your Own Terms

    Plastic surgery is one of those topics people have strong opinions about. But in midlife, the conversation often becomes more complicated than simply being “for” or “against” it. In this episode of Over 50 & Frank, Shannon Hinderberger (Frank) sits down with returning guest Linda Wolfe to have a candid conversation about cosmetic procedures, aging, body image, and personal choice. Linda openly shares her experience with several procedures including a facelift, brow lift, tummy tuck, and breast reduction and lift. She explains how those decisions impacted her confidence, her body, and how she feels getting dressed every day. Shannon, who has lost significant weight, talks about the internal debate she’s having around loose skin and whether visiting a plastic surgeon is the right next step. Together they explore the pressure women feel to “fix” themselves, the difference between empowerment and expectation, and how their perspectives on cosmetic procedures have changed as they’ve gotten older. This episode is not about telling women what they should do. It’s about having an honest conversation about the decisions many women quietly consider after 50. What We Cover in This EpisodeLoose skin after weight loss and the emotional side of considering surgeryLinda’s early plastic surgery experience and how it stopped bullyingThe life-changing impact of a tummy tuck and breast reductionHow to think about the timing of surgery and reaching your ideal weight firstWhy breast reduction is one of the most satisfying procedures for many womenThe financial reality of cosmetic procedures and how people budget for themThe recovery process that surgeons don’t always fully explainThe importance of understanding your motivation before making a decisionKey TakeawaysCosmetic procedures can be deeply personal decisionsBeing clear about why you want surgery mattersLoose skin after weight loss is a common struggleRecovery can be more difficult than many people expectConfidence after midlife can look different for every womanGuestLinda Wolfe Content creator and returning guest on Over 50 & Frank. Linda shares openly about midlife weight loss, body image, Follow Over 50 & Frank, subscribe, and leave a review. If this episode sparked a conversation for you, share it with a friend navigating similar midlife decisions.

    13 min
  3. MAR 3

    Episode 9: GLP-1s and Perimenopause: Why Midlife Weight Loss Is Different

    In this episode of Over 50 and Frank, host Shannon (also known as Frank) welcomes back Dr. Myra, the CEO of Mochi Health. They dive into the critical intersection of GLP-1 medications and perimenopause, discussing how this life stage impacts metabolism and the body's response to meds like Ozempic and Zepbound. This conversation is about getting informed choices without "blame, shame, or outdated advice".123 Key Discussion Points: GLP-1s and Hormones: Losing weight using GLP-1 medications helps to release estrogen and testosterone that are trapped in fat cells, which can help bring hormone levels back to normal. Patients often notice differences in sleep or see their menstrual cycles resume.45Menopause and Inflammation: Menopause involves changing levels of estrogen and progesterone, which can impact bone turnover and general bone inflammation. The speakers note an uptick in autoimmune diseases around the start of menopause age.67GLP-1s and Autoimmune Conditions: The speakers share anecdotal evidence of GLP-1s improving inflammation, including one family member who had to stop taking their rheumatoid arthritis (RA) medication because their inflammation and joint pain improved so much.8HRT and GLP-1s: Women can safely use GLP-1s and Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) together. Patients who use both report improvements in weight loss, sleep quality, skin, and mood.910The GLP-1 "Starter Pack": Dr. Myra suggests three essential tools for women in perimenopause starting a GLP-1:11A good water bottle for hydration.12Magnesium to help with potential GI side effects. The form of magnesium that is easiest for the patient to consume is recommended.1314Ginger juice for nausea symptoms, especially when starting the medication.15The Host's Starter Pack Additions: Shannon, the host, suggests three more items that were not initially told to her when she started GLP-1s:16Lifting weights.17Taking a multivitamin.17Prioritizing protein.17Mochi Health's Micro-Dosing Program: This new program is for anyone who needs GLP-1s outside of strictly treating obesity, such as managing an autoimmune condition or aiming for a much smaller dose for weight loss.18The Future of GLP-1s: There is hope that GLP-1s will be useful for other conditions, including opiate use disorder and other addictions. Eli Lilly is working on a new drug specifically for alcohol and drug abuse.1920 Guest: Dr. Myra Ahmed from Mochi Health. To save $40 off your first month with Mochi Health go here: https://app.joinmochi.com/eligibility?ptcode=3dud17

    13 min
  4. FEB 17

    Episode 7: Hormone Replacement Therapy: Is It Safe and Is It Right for You?

    Hormone Replacement Therapy. Three words that still carry a lot of fear. In this episode of Over 50 & Frank, Shannon dives into one of the most controversial and misunderstood topics in midlife women’s health: HRT. Is it safe? Who is it for? What changed after the early 2000s studies? And why are so many women still being told “hormones are dangerous” without updated context? Dr. Myra Ahmed from Mochi Health walks through the legacy of the 2002 Women’s Health Initiative study and how it created decades of hesitation among providers. She explains how much of that messaging has since been clarified or walked back, yet the fear remains deeply embedded in the medical system. This episode explores: Why so many women are suffering through symptoms unnecessarilyThe difference between perimenopause and menopause treatmentThe role of estrogen, progesterone, and testosteroneWhy “it’s just stress” is often an incomplete answerHow to find a provider who understands hormone therapyWho may not be a candidate for HRTWhy there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution Shannon also shares her perspective as a Gen X woman watching her generation become “the bridge” — the ones asking questions our mothers didn’t know to ask and demanding better answers for ourselves and our daughters. This conversation isn’t about convincing you to take hormones. It’s about making sure you have accurate information so you can decide what’s right for you. Because midlife isn’t meant to be endured in silence. What We Cover in This EpisodeThe real history behind the HRT black box warningWhy providers are still hesitantSymptoms that often respond well to hormone therapyPanic attacks, insomnia, anxiety, and libido changesBone health, muscle mass, and cognitive protectionWhen lifestyle changes aren’t enoughThe importance of personalized treatmentKey TakeawaysHormone therapy is not the same as it was framed 20 years agoMany women are good candidates for HRTFear-based medicine still lingersYou deserve a provider who listensYou don’t have to live in survival mode Guest: Dr Myra Ahmed, founder, Mochi Health, To get started with Mochi Health for HRT, GLP-1 or skin care, go here. Follow Over 50 & Frank, subscribe, and leave a review. If this episode answered questions you’ve been quietly carrying, share it with a friend who needs better information too.

    13 min
  5. FEB 10

    Episode 6: Hidden Women, Midlife Power, and Rewriting History After 50

    In this episode of Over 50 & Frank, Shannon, also known as “Frank” when she drops the filter, is joined by writer Kerry Chaput for a conversation about perimenopause, panic attacks, and the brave, defiant women from history who can help us reframe midlife as a beginning, not an ending. Kerry shares what it’s been like to be in the thick of perimenopause, including experiencing severe panic attacks before realizing hormones were the cause. Together, Shannon and Kerry reflect on how symptoms like panic attacks, joint pain, and sleep disruption were rarely discussed for previous generations, and how many women suffered without knowing these changes were normal. The conversation expands into Kerry’s lifelong passion for uncovering women whose stories were erased from history. She shares why she committed to writing about “badass women” at midlife and how these stories offer powerful perspective for women navigating change today. They discuss historical figures who inspire Kerry, including Eleanor Roosevelt, Virginia Hall, and Martha Gellhorn, and what their courage teaches us about resilience, empathy, and refusing to comply with the limits placed on women. Kerry also talks about her new novel, The Secret Courtesan, releasing February 10, and why reclaiming women’s stories still matters. This episode is about curiosity, courage, and becoming more fully yourself in midlife. What We CoverPerimenopause symptoms no one warned us aboutPanic attacks and hormonesWhy women’s stories were erased from historyWhat makes a truly “badass” womanMidlife as a turning point, not a declineChanging the conversation for the next generationGuestKerry Chaput Author of Chasing Eleanor and The Secret Courtesan (out Feb 10) You can purchase the book here. Instagram | Website | Substack Follow Over 50 & Frank, subscribe, and leave a review. Share this episode with a friend who’s redefining herself in midlife.

    36 min
  6. FEB 3

    Episode 4: The Quiet Parts Out Loud: Skincare, Menopause, and What Actually Works After 40

    Episode Description What really works for skin after 40 and 50? In this episode of Over 50 & Frank, Shannon and skincare expert Alyssa Abbey say the quiet parts out loud about menopause, collagen loss, estriol cream, retinol, and the procedures that actually move the needle.What We Cover in This Episode Simple skincare routines for women over 40 and 50 Morning and nighttime “non-negotiables” How and when to use retinol Estriol cream, the science behind it, and how it’s used Medical-grade skincare vs hype Collagen loss during menopause When products aren’t enough and procedures help Microneedling, IPL, Morpheus, and Sculptra explained Pain, downtime, cost, and realistic expectations Skincare Takeaways Antioxidants, sunscreen, and eye cream matter most Retinol can be used every other night Estriol can be a powerful topical tool in menopause Collagen loss accelerates rapidly during menopause Procedures stimulate collagen at a deeper level Sunscreen is the single most important daily habit Products mentioned *Vitamin C + E Serum (CE Ferulic–style) * SkinCeuticals CE Ferulic  https://rstyle.me/+F9XbJaKiFWsASQlAM8656w * Maelove Glow Maker https://rstyle.me/+K7MEgNsI9g1UOtVvIaRK4Q Sunscreen * EltaMD Tinted Sunscreen (https://rstyle.me/+c12xeHiaUOBLdOUb4YAMJA   Musely Aging Repair (Estriol) Cream  https://rstyle.me/+N4Zzou00V3d5MArtDdadsQ GuestAlyssa Abbey, PA-C Precision Skin and Hormone https://www.precisionskinandhormone.com/ https://www.instagram.com/precisionskinandhormone/ Location: Bend OR Phone: 541-241-3955 Follow Over 50 & Frank, subscribe, and leave a review. If this episode helped you rethink your skincare, share it with a friend who’s navigating midlife skin changes too. These notes contain affiliate links. I may earn a commission from products I personally use, love, and recommend.

    23 min
  7. FEB 3

    Episode 3: Job Searching at 50: Ageism, Reinvention, and Refusing to Disappear

    Episode Description (Long Form)In this episode of Over 50 & Frank, Shannon, also known as “Frank” when the filter is off, sits down with her childhood friend Mariel, who is navigating an unexpected and deeply personal challenge: job searching at 51. Mariel has nearly three decades of experience and has weathered multiple layoffs over her career, but this time feels different. For the first time, age feels like a liability. Together, Shannon and Mariel talk openly about ageism in hiring, the pressure to “de-age” resumes and LinkedIn profiles, and the unsettling realization that experience is often undervalued in today’s job market. This episode is an honest look at reinvention, resilience, and refusing to buy into the myth that women over 50 are no longer relevant, adaptable, or marketable. Key Discussion Highlights Job Loss & Ageism Mariel shares that this is her third experience with job loss, but the first time she has felt that her age could work against her. With nearly 28 years of experience, she’s watched younger candidates land senior titles with significantly less time in the industry. The Push to “De-Age” Resumes Mariel talks about the shock of being advised to remove early career experience from her resume and LinkedIn profile. After years of proudly building a long, accomplished career, being told to hide it felt jarring and backwards. Experience Being Undervalued Shannon and Mariel discuss how the strategic lens, pattern recognition, and big-picture thinking that come with experience are often overlooked, even though the fundamentals of marketing haven’t changed. Subtle Ageism at Work Mariel recounts a moment when a younger colleague criticized her for not using Slack efficiently. While the feedback framed it as a tech issue, Mariel was intentionally prioritizing documentation and email records for critical approvals, knowing how essential paper trails are. Resilience & Confidence Despite the fear and uncertainty, Mariel shares that she’s been pleasantly surprised by interview callbacks and has developed a renewed confidence in herself. This season has reinforced her resilience and belief that she will land her next role. GuestMariel C. Shannon’s childhood friend, seasoned marketing professional, and proof that reinvention after 50 is not only possible but powerful. Follow Over 50 & Frank, subscribe, and leave a review. If this episode resonated, share it with a friend navigating a career change or job search after 50.

    40 min
  8. FEB 3

    Episdoe 2: GLP-1s: The Lifesaver No One Told Midlife Women About

    Episode Description In this episode of Over 50 & Frank, Shannon (also known as “Frank” when the filter drops) sits down with her friend and fellow UGC creator Linda Wolfe for a candid conversation about GLP-1 medications and why so many midlife women feel like no one told them this was an option. Shannon and Linda met through Mochi Health, where they were both prescribed GLP-1 medications. What started as a shared health journey quickly became a catalyst for confidence, career shifts, and a completely different relationship with food. They talk openly about perimenopause quietly changing everything, being on the fence about starting GLP-1s, and the fear many women carry about needing medication long term. This episode also tackles stigma, ageism, and the emotional weight of living in a body that suddenly stops responding the way it used to. If you’ve ever wondered whether GLP-1s are “worth it,” felt dismissed by doctors, or questioned why weight loss gets harder after 40, this conversation is for you. What We Cover in This Episode What GLP-1 medications are and why they’ve been life-changing for many women How perimenopause quietly shifts weight, pain, and overall health Being on the fence about starting a GLP-1 and what finally pushes women to say yes Meeting through Mochi Health and being open about taking GLP-1s publicly The fear of the medication stopping working The stigma around taking GLP-1s “for life” Why weight loss often unlocks confidence and opportunity in midlife Personal Experiences with GLP-1s If you're interested in working with Mochi Health, go here:* https://www.joinladder.com/referral?utm_source=ios_app&utm_medium=referral&utm_term=a38d55bd-56d7-4d7b-b9f6-0da3d8fef71d&utm_campaign=share&utm_content=referral_lp&promoCode=reloadguestpass30 Guest Linda Wolfe https://www.instagram.com/linda_wolfee/ UGC creator, marketer, and Shannon’s self-described “big sister I never had.” Based in Southern California and proof that it’s never too late to start over. Follow Over 50 & Frank, subscribe, and leave a review. Share this episode with a friend who’s on the fence or needs to hear this conversation. These notes contain affiliate links. I may earn a commission from products I personally use, love, and recommend.

    20 min
  9. FEB 3

    Episode 1: 50 is the New 30

    Episode DescriptionWhy are women over 50 still whispering about menopause, weight gain, and aging like it’s a secret? In the very first episode of Over 50 & Frank, Shannon Hinderberger and her business partner Darlene Veenhuizen explain why this podcast exists, how “Frank” got her name, and why it’s time to say the quiet parts out loud about midlife, hormones, and women’s health. GuestDarlene Veenhuizen Creative Director at DASH Content Collective and Shannon’s younger business partner. Follow Darlene on Instagram: @pickljarstudios   Products MentionedThese notes contain affiliate links. I may earn a commission from products I personally use, love, and recommend. Collagen Garden of Life https://rstyle.me/+KsCtZNc2KJ_gAl6X66zK1AThorne Collagen Plus https://rstyle.me/+kDR329E2Sh0fkQR1klogngPrakash Organics Heavier Face OilLighter Face OilNectar Body Oil https://prakashog.com/ Use code Shannon to save 15% offOSEA Dream Night SerumBody OilHyaluronic Body SerumBody PolishSalts of the Earth Scrub https://oseamalibu.com/?rfsn=8128930.ea7509&utm_source=refersion&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=8128930.ea7509 Use code SHANNONH10 to save 10% offDRMTLGY Needless SerumNeedleless Growth Factor https://www.drmtlgy.com/?referral_code=pXqYe4Fd7Q2yDXR Get 30% off your first orderMusely Aging Repair Cream https://www.musely.com/referral/receiver?c=club_invite&clid=470216&gvid=94503&uid=8563668Body Serums Maelys B-Gloss https://rstyle.me/+5UdP6bzcR8QhNRWxpu8XpQSaltair Body Serum https://rstyle.me/+_SfgttJcpOmTH7AeewgKLg  Follow Over 50 & Frank, subscribe, and leave a review. If this episode resonated, share it with a friend who needs to hear it. Keywords menopause, perimenopause, women's health, GLP-1, weight loss, aging, skincare, hormones, health awareness, open conversations

    35 min
  10. SEASON 1 TRAILER

    Trailer: Why Over 50 & Frank Exists: The Conversations We Were Never Given

    Episode Description (Short)Why does it feel like women over 50 disappear from the conversation? In this introduction episode of Over 50 & Frank, Shannon explains why this show exists, how she earned the nickname “Frank,” and why it’s time to talk honestly about aging, menopause, wellness, and life after 50, without filters or apologies. Episode Description (Long Form)Welcome to Over 50 & Frank. In this introduction episode, host Shannon, also known as “Frank” when she drops the filter, shares why she felt compelled to create a podcast for women over 40 and especially over 50, a group that often feels forgotten by media, healthcare, and the wellness industry. The idea for the show began during a trip to Breitenbush Hot Springs, where Shannon started writing down everything that had been weighing on her mind. As a Gen X woman, marketing agency owner, and content creator, she realized she didn’t want to just complain about midlife changes. She wanted to stand up, speak out, and make things better for herself and for younger generations coming behind her. Shannon shares her personal health journey, including her period stopping in 2022 and the years leading up to it that were filled with unexplained symptoms: heart racing, hip pain, acid reflux, itchy scalp, hair loss, loss of libido, and stubborn weight gain. For years, doctors dismissed these symptoms as anxiety or told her she was “too young” for menopause, even as her cycle became increasingly irregular. She opens up about trying everything to manage her weight, from fasting and shakes to keto, Whole30, and paleo, all while exercising consistently. Nothing worked. After extensive research, she began taking tirzepatide in August 2022, a decision she describes as life-changing and one that finally helped her understand how early perimenopause can begin. This episode looks at the bigger issue: how broken the perimenopause and menopause education system is, how women are left to figure it out on their own, and why talking about this now matters. Not just for women currently in midlife, but for daughters, nieces, and younger women who deserve better information and support. Shannon also shares what listeners can expect from Over 50 & Frank: candid conversations about menopause, the “menopause gold rush,” GLP-1s versus natural weight loss, hormone replacement therapy, exercise after 50, ageism in beauty and fashion, gray hair, hair loss, skincare, procedures that worked, capsule wardrobes, and how to live confidently and unapologetically in the second half of life. What This Show Is AboutHonest conversations about aging and menopauseCalling out ageism and outdated narrativesSharing real experiences and what actually worksMaking midlife easier for the next generationConnect With ShannonHave a topic you want covered? Find Shannon on Instagram or TikTok: @HeyShannonLee or emails hi@heyshannonlee.com

    16 min

Trailer

5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Over 50 & Frank is a podcast for women who are done whispering about aging. Hosted by Shannon Hinderberger, this show is where the filter comes off and the real conversations begin. Around here, we talk openly about menopause, hormones, wellness, work, style, and what it actually feels like to age in a culture that would rather pretend women over 50 are invisible. This is not polished perfection or toxic positivity. It’s honest, sometimes uncomfortable, often funny, and always real. Each episode blends candid solo conversations with thoughtful discussions featuring friends, experts, and women who are navigating midlife in real time. You’ll hear about advocating for your health, questioning outdated narratives, redefining confidence, and learning how to show up fully in this season without apology. Over 50 & Frank exists to say the quiet parts out loud. It’s for women who have been told they’re too old, too late, or too much, and are ready to rewrite the story. If you’re over 50 and craving real talk about life, aging, and everything in between, pull up a chair. You’re in the right place.

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