Progress Your Health Podcast

Dr Valorie Davidson and Dr Robert Maki
  • 4.7 (78)
  • ALTERNATIVE HEALTH

Struggling with stubborn weight gain, exhaustion, poor sleep, anxiety, low libido, brain fog, or hot flashes? These aren’t “just aging,” they’re signs of hormone imbalance. The Progress Your Health Podcast is your go-to resource for perimenopause, menopause, thyroid health, and hormones hosted by Doctors and hormone experts Dr. Valorie Davidson and Dr. Robert Maki. We translate complex hormone science into simple, actionable steps to help you: Balance hormones naturally Lose weight and improve metabolism Boost energy and mood Sleep better and reduce night sweats Restore libido and confidence ge with strength, clarity, and vitality We cover common hormonal conditions including: Perimenopause + Menopause Thyroid Disorders (Hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s) Adrenal Issues + Cortisol Imbalances PMS + PCOS Estrogen Dominance + Low Progesterone Testosterone Imbalance in Women Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) With real patient examples, research backed strategies, and candid conversations, this podcast gives you the clarity and confidence you’ve been missing. New episodes help you take control of your hormones, feel like yourself again, and finally make progress with your health. Subscribe and start your transformation today.

  1. When Should You Test Hormone Levels for HRT? Timing Matters More Than You Think! | PYHP 170

    JUN 16

    When Should You Test Hormone Levels for HRT? Timing Matters More Than You Think! | PYHP 170

    In this episode of the Progress Your Health Podcast, Dr. Valorie and Dr. Maki tackle a common yet surprisingly confusing question: When is the best time to test your blood levels if you're using hormone replacement therapy (HRT)? Lisa, a fellow Washingtonian, submitted a thoughtful Ask the Doctor question about testing estradiol and FSH levels when using a trochee or transdermal cream. Should it be 4 to 6 hours after application? Or 10 to 12? And what do the results actually mean? We’ll break down: The ideal timing for blood draws depending on delivery method (trochee, patch, cream) How estrogen and progesterone absorb differently Why testing too soon — or too late — can skew your results How to interpret estradiol and FSH together (and why context is everything) Why the number isn’t the whole story — and how you feel matters most Plus, Dr. Valorie shares insights from her own hormone journey, including rhythmic dosing tips and lab timing mishaps.   If you have a question, please visit our website and click Ask the Doctor a question.   Want more insights like this?  Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for hormone Q&As, educational guides, and real-world strategies to help you feel like yourself again—especially during perimenopause and menopause. Join the Progress Your Health Newsletter   Stay Connected Instagram: @drvalorie TikTok: @drvaloried Join the Hormone Community: Click here to subscribe   Disclaimer: All content in this blog, including text, images, audio, video, or other formats, was created for informational purposes only. This video, website, and blog aim to promote consumer/public understanding and general knowledge of various health topics. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition before undertaking a new healthcare regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If your healthcare provider is not interested in discussing your health concerns regarding this topic, then it is time to find a new doctor.

    28 min
  2. Are You Too Old for HRT? What to Do When Your Doctor Says Stop at 70+ | PYHP 169

    JUN 13

    Are You Too Old for HRT? What to Do When Your Doctor Says Stop at 70+ | PYHP 169

    Is there really an age limit for hormone replacement therapy (HRT)? What if you're in your 70s and still feel better on hormones—but your doctor says it's time to stop? In this episode, we answer a great question from Mary, a 76-year-old woman who's been on HRT for over 20 years. She's dealing with weight gain, breast tenderness, and pressure from her gynecologist to quit hormones altogether. We break it down: Why stopping HRT just because of age isn't always the answer What to consider when switching from a trochee to a cream Why estradiol levels matter more than total estrogen The connection between insulin resistance, weight gain, and hormones How to adjust HRT in your 70s to maintain quality of life without unnecessary risk Whether you're well into postmenopause or just starting HRT, this is a must-listen if you're wondering how long is too long to stay on hormones.   If you have a question, please visit our website and click Ask the Doctor a question.   Want more insights like this?  Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for hormone Q&As, educational guides, and real-world strategies to help you feel like yourself again—especially during perimenopause and menopause. Join the Progress Your Health Newsletter   Stay Connected Instagram: @drvalorie TikTok: @drvaloried Join the Hormone Community: Click here to subscribe   Disclaimer: All content in this blog, including text, images, audio, video, or other formats, was created for informational purposes only. This video, website, and blog aim to promote consumer/public understanding and general knowledge of various health topics. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition before undertaking a new healthcare regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If your healthcare provider is not interested in discussing your health concerns regarding this topic, then it is time to find a new doctor.

    20 min
  3. Can You Be Hypersensitive to Estrogen? | PYHP 168

    JUN 2

    Can You Be Hypersensitive to Estrogen? | PYHP 168

    In this episode, we’re answering a thoughtful (and very relatable) listener question from Kari, who’s been struggling with unexpected body pain and inflammation after starting hormone therapy. She wonders if she might be hypersensitive to estrogen—something most doctors don’t talk about. Dr. Valorie Davidson and Dr. Robert Maki unpack why this happens and what to do if you suspect your body is reacting to estrogen differently than expected.   In this episode, we discuss: Why some women experience increased pain, fluid retention, or inflammation on estradiol—especially starting at higher doses too quickly. The importance of starting low and increasing slowly, especially for sensitive individuals How Dr. Davidson’s personal experience with estrogen sensitivity helped shape her approach The role of the liver’s phase 1 and phase 2 detox pathways in clearing estrogen metabolites Why form, dose, and timing of hormone therapy (cream vs. patch, AM vs. PM) can affect results What to consider when adjusting your Biest ratio (80:20 vs. 90:10) or Rhythmic Dosing HRT   ✉️ Here’s Kari’s full question: “I used Biest 80:20 for 3 years and suddenly stopped absorbing. I’m not sure why, but I do know I didn’t always use it the same time every day. From the moment I went on hormone therapy I’ve had body pain and thought I had fibromyalgia. When my estrogen dropped due to the absorption issue I realized the body pain completely went away. I then went on a patch because my doc said we should change the method. Immediate body pain again and even worse. Terrible. I was on 0.025 and it was tolerable, but after raising it to 0.05 it got really bad. I think I may ask to go on the compounded cream again—maybe change the site that I apply it and be more consistent. I’m very frustrated because no one talks about a subset of people that are very sensitive to estrogen. They only talk about it making joint pain go away. Do you think I should use 90:10 instead? What would you recommend that I do? I’m so sad and frustrated.”    If you have a question, please visit our website and click Ask the Doctor a question.   Want more insights like this?  Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for hormone Q&As, educational guides, and real-world strategies to help you feel like yourself again—especially during perimenopause and menopause. Join the Progress Your Health Newsletter   Stay Connected Instagram: @drvalorie TikTok: @drvaloried Join the Hormone Community: Click here to subscribe   Disclaimer: All content in this blog, including text, images, audio, video, or other formats, was created for informational purposes only. This video, website, and blog aim to promote consumer/public understanding and general knowledge of various health topics. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition before undertaking a new healthcare regimen. Ne...

    30 min
  4. Can You Take HRT If You’ve Had Endometriosis? | PYHP 167

    MAY 21

    Can You Take HRT If You’ve Had Endometriosis? | PYHP 167

    In this episode, Dr. Valorie Davidson and Dr. Robert Maki respond to a great listener question from April, who’s navigating hormone replacement therapy (HRT) while dealing with a history of endometriosis, polyps, and chronic cramps.  April’s experience is all too familiar: spotting, cramping, hormone experimentation, and the frustrating search for symptom relief. So, can women with endometriosis safely use HRT—especially estrogen?  The answer: Yes, but it has to be customized.  �� In this episode, we cover:  Why HRT is absolutely possible for women with endometriosis—but must be individually tailored  The difference between static vs. rhythmic dosing and why rhythmic HRT may be better tolerated for some women  Dr. Davidson’s personal story of having endometriosis, cysts, and polyps—and how she now uses rhythmic dosing herself without flaring  The important role of progesterone in managing endometriosis and minimizing estrogen reactivity  How to approach spotting, cramping, and cyst formation during HRT ● Why estrogen isn’t the enemy—but why it must be dosed thoughtfully  ✉️ Here’s April’s full question:  “Hi—I am a 57-year-old woman in perimenopause. My question is: is it possible for women with endometriosis or adenomyosis to do HRT?  I started oral progesterone 2 years ago, got as high as 300 mg, but didn’t get much symptom resolution. Switched to a progesterone troche—50 mg morning and night. About 3 months ago, I added testosterone (0.25 mg once daily, 5 days/week) and Biest 80/20 (1 ml daily, can go up to 2 ml).  Everything was good for a while, but now the cramping and spotting have returned. I’ve had heavy bleeding as long as I can remember. My main complaint is menstrual cramps throughout the month—not just during my period. I do not have fibroids, but I’ve had many cysts and polyps over the years and have had many ultrasounds and transvaginal ultrasounds because of this.”    If you have a question, please visit our website and click Ask the Doctor a question.   Want more insights like this?  Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for hormone Q&As, educational guides, and real-world strategies to help you feel like yourself again—especially during perimenopause and menopause. Join the Progress Your Health Newsletter   Stay Connected Instagram: @drvalorie TikTok: @drvaloried Join the Hormone Community:

    22 min
  5. Does HRT Slow Down Aging? | PYHP 166

    MAY 20

    Does HRT Slow Down Aging? | PYHP 166

    In this episode, Dr. Valorie Davidson and Dr. Robert Maki dive into a hot topic: Does Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) actually slow down aging? While the short answer may surprise you, the real conversation is about something even more valuable—your quality of life. Here’s what we cover: How HRT can support energy, strength, and resilience as we age The role of hormones in brain function, memory, and mental clarity Why estrogen and progesterone matter for muscle tone and bone density ❤️ The powerful connection between hormones and cardiovascular health Why HRT isn’t about extending your lifespan—but enhancing how you feel through the years   Obviously aging is inevitable—but suffering doesn’t have to be. This episode is all about helping you feel more like you again, even as your hormones shift.   If you have a question, please visit our website and click Ask the Doctor a question.   Want more insights like this?  Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for hormone Q&As, educational guides, and real-world strategies to help you feel like yourself again—especially during perimenopause and menopause. Join the Progress Your Health Newsletter   Stay Connected Instagram: @drvalorie TikTok: @drvaloried Join the Hormone Community: Click here to subscribe   Disclaimer: All content in this blog, including text, images, audio, video, or other formats, was created for informational purposes only. This video, website, and blog aim to promote consumer/public understanding and general knowledge of various health topics. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition before undertaking a new healthcare regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If your healthcare provider is not interested in discussing your health concerns regarding this topic, then it is time to find a new doctor.

    39 min
  6. Natural Bone Health: Best Nutrients & Foods for Stronger Bones After 40 | PYHP 165

    MAY 19

    Natural Bone Health: Best Nutrients & Foods for Stronger Bones After 40 | PYHP 165

    You’ve probably heard “drink your milk for strong bones,” but there’s much more to bone health than just calcium—and definitely more than just dairy. In this episode, Dr. Valorie and Dr. Maki breas down the key nutrients your body needs to build and maintain bone density as you age, especially during perimenopause and menopause.   From calcium and magnesium to K2, boron, and collagen peptides, we’re covering the supplements and whole food sources that truly make a difference for your bones. You’ll learn which forms of calcium are best absorbed, why magnesium matters for your arteries, how vitamin D and K2 work together, and the underappreciated power of prunes, chia seeds, sardines, and seaweed.   What You’ll Learn: Which forms of calcium are safest and most effective  The synergy between magnesium, vitamin D3, and vitamin K2 How to naturally support your osteoblasts (bone-building cells) Best food sources of key bone nutrients What to avoid if you’re prone to kidney stones or soft tissue calcification The truth about collagen and bone strength   Whether you’re navigating menopause or just want to protect your bones for the long haul, this episode offers actionable strategies backed by decades of clinical experience.   Don't miss this podcast to building stronger bones—naturally.   If you have a question, please visit our website and click Ask the Doctor a question.   Want more insights like this?  Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for hormone Q&As, educational guides, and real-world strategies to help you feel like yourself again—especially during perimenopause and menopause. Join the Progress Your Health Newsletter   Stay Connected Instagram: @drvalorie TikTok: @drvaloried Join the Hormone Community: Click here to subscribe   Disclaimer: All content in this blog, including text, images, audio, video, or other formats, was created for informational purposes only. This video, website, and blog aim to promote consumer/public understanding and general knowledge of various health topics. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition before undertaking a new healthcare regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If your healthcare provider is not interested in discussing your health concerns regarding this topic, then it is time to find a new doctor.

    34 min
  7. What is a DEXA Score? | Bone Density, T-Scores, and What You Can Do About It | PYHP 164

    MAY 9

    What is a DEXA Score? | Bone Density, T-Scores, and What You Can Do About It | PYHP 164

    In this episode, Dr. Valorie Davidson and Dr. Robert Maki break down how to interpret your DEXA scan results—and why it matters, especially for women in perimenopause and menopause. We explain what your T-score and Z-score actually mean, how estrogen and menopause affect your bones, and what you can do to prevent or slow bone loss naturally.   Whether you’re already on HRT or just starting to explore options for protecting your bone health, this episode gives you clear, actionable insights to help you feel strong, confident, and informed.   In this episode, you’ll learn: What a T-score means—and how to understand the risk ranges What a Z-score tells you (and why it’s different from T-score) How menopause and estrogen decline impact bone density The role of HRT in maintaining or improving bone strength How weight-bearing exercise helps preserve bone mass Natural strategies to prevent bone loss (beyond calcium and vitamin D) Real examples of patients’ DEXA scans and how their scores changed over time   Perfect for you if: You’re in your 40s, 50s, or beyond and wondering what your bone scan means—or how to keep your bones strong during the hormonal transition.   If you have a question, please visit our website and click Ask the Doctor a question.   Want more insights like this?  Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for hormone Q&As, educational guides, and real-world strategies to help you feel like yourself again—especially during perimenopause and menopause. Join the Progress Your Health Newsletter   Stay Connected Instagram: @drvalorie TikTok: @drvaloried Join the Hormone Community: Click here to subscribe   Disclaimer: All content in this blog, including text, images, audio, video, or other formats, was created for informational purposes only. This video, website, and blog aim to promote consumer/public understanding and general knowledge of various health topics. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition before undertaking a new healthcare regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If your healthcare provider is not interested in discussing your health concerns regarding this topic, then it is time to find a new doctor.

    44 min
  8. Hormone Blood Tests Explained: What Your Labs Reveal About HRT & Menopause | PYHP 163

    MAY 8

    Hormone Blood Tests Explained: What Your Labs Reveal About HRT & Menopause | PYHP 163

    In this episode of The Progress Your Health Podcast, Dr. Valorie Davidson and Dr. Maki take you behind the scenes and share their own hormone blood test results. Learn how these labs help guide treatment decisions, track progress, and support hormone balance during perimenopause and menopause.   What You’ll Learn: Key labs such as estradiol, testosterone, DHEA-sulfate, pregnenolone, LH, FSH Additional panels like liver enzymes, cholesterol, and comprehensive metabolic profiles How hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is monitored through regular blood work Dr. Valorie’s personal experience with rhythmic HRT dosing during menopause The difference between baseline and follow-up labs   If you have a question, please visit our website and click Ask the Doctor a question.   Want more insights like this?  Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for hormone Q&As, educational guides, and real-world strategies to help you feel like yourself again—especially during perimenopause and menopause. Join the Progress Your Health Newsletter   Stay Connected Instagram: @drvalorie TikTok: @drvaloried Join the Hormone Community: Click here to subscribe   Disclaimer: All content in this blog, including text, images, audio, video, or other formats, was created for informational purposes only. This video, website, and blog aim to promote consumer/public understanding and general knowledge of various health topics. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your condition before undertaking a new healthcare regimen. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If your healthcare provider is not interested in discussing your health concerns regarding this topic, then it is time to find a new doctor.

    50 min
See All (176)

4.7
out of 5
78 Ratings

About

Struggling with stubborn weight gain, exhaustion, poor sleep, anxiety, low libido, brain fog, or hot flashes? These aren’t “just aging,” they’re signs of hormone imbalance. The Progress Your Health Podcast is your go-to resource for perimenopause, menopause, thyroid health, and hormones hosted by Doctors and hormone experts Dr. Valorie Davidson and Dr. Robert Maki. We translate complex hormone science into simple, actionable steps to help you: Balance hormones naturally Lose weight and improve metabolism Boost energy and mood Sleep better and reduce night sweats Restore libido and confidence ge with strength, clarity, and vitality We cover common hormonal conditions including: Perimenopause + Menopause Thyroid Disorders (Hypothyroidism, Hashimoto’s) Adrenal Issues + Cortisol Imbalances PMS + PCOS Estrogen Dominance + Low Progesterone Testosterone Imbalance in Women Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) With real patient examples, research backed strategies, and candid conversations, this podcast gives you the clarity and confidence you’ve been missing. New episodes help you take control of your hormones, feel like yourself again, and finally make progress with your health. Subscribe and start your transformation today.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr Valorie Davidson and Dr Robert Maki
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2025
  • Episodes
    176
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Progress Your Health, Inc
  • Show Website
    Progress Your Health Podcast

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