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