Hey friends!
In this episode, I’m joined by the amazing Dr. Heather Quaile, DNP, as we dive into all things ISSWSH — that's short for the International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health (try saying that five times fast). We talk about how this incredible organization has exploded in size and why that matters for women everywhere.
We get into the power of staying curious in sexual medicine, why funding research is still such a grind, and how hormones — yes, especially testosterone — play a huge role in sexual function. Heather and I also share some of our favorite takeaways from recent ISSWSH conferences, like new ways of looking at orgasm and sexual dysfunction that actually make sense.
We don't shy away from the hard stuff either — off-label meds, outdated guidelines, and the frustrating lack of clarity around hormone therapy. But more than anything, this convo is about how we, as healthcare professionals, need to collaborate and push for change that reflects real women’s needs.
If you’re curious about the future of female sexual medicine or just want to hear two clinicians geek out over the latest research, this episode is for you.
Let’s get into it!
www.isswsh.org
https://theshowcenter.com/
Sedona in October - ONE slot left: https://www.ascendretreats.com/menopause-and-sexual-health-2025
Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life" and "Menopause Moment: Science, Hormones and Mindset for Optimal Longevity"
Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed
Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:
My Website
Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Waitlist is open
To learn more about GennaMD by Solv Wellness, visit gennaMD.com for 20% off your first order. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5. Providers can request patient education materials or samples at gennaMDHCP.com.
Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.https://www.joinmidi.com
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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38:56
318. How (AND WHY) To Prescribe Hormones
This episode is the audio from a lecture I gave to a large group of physicians on how (and why) to prescribe hormones - both systemic and local.
The end of the podcast is a Q&A where I discuss contradictions and myths.
Whether you are a prescriber or just want to go deeper in your knowledge, I hope you enjoy being a fly on the wall for this conversation.
Sedona in October - only two slots left: https://www.ascendretreats.com/menopause-and-sexual-health-2025
Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life" and "Menopause Moment: Science, Hormones and Mindset for Optimal Longevity"
Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed
Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:
My Website
Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Waitlist is open
To learn more about GennaMD by Solv Wellness, visit gennaMD.com for 20% off your first order. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5. Providers can request patient education materials or samples at gennaMDHCP.com.
Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.https://www.joinmidi.com
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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1:34:52
317. This Is Not Your Mother’s Menopause: Sex, Science, and Society
This episode is from an interview I did with Dr. Shauna Watts while in Austraila for her podcast, "All About You With Dr. Shauna Watts"
This conversation delves into the complexities of menopause, hormone therapy, and the societal perceptions surrounding them. We discuss the misconceptions about menopause, the evolutionary perspective, and the naturalistic fallacy that often leads women to avoid hormone replacement therapy. We also explore the stigma surrounding men's health issues, particularly testosterone treatment, and the importance of education in making informed choices about hormone therapy. Additionally, the discussion touches on interstitial cystitis, bladder cancer risk factors, and the benefits of rucking for women's health. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of women's sexual health, focusing on libido, the impact of menopause, and the societal pressures surrounding body image and sexual desire. We discuss the importance of education and resources for understanding sexual health, as well as the challenges faced by women in navigating their sexual experiences. The conversation emphasizes the need for open dialogue about sexual health and the normalization of women's experiences.
https://www.allaboutyoupod.com/
Sedona in October - only two slots left: https://www.ascendretreats.com/menopause-and-sexual-health-2025
Order my book "You Are Not Broken: Stop "Should-ing" All Over You Sex Life" and "Menopause Moment: Science, Hormones and Mindset for Optimal Longevity"
Listen to my Tedx Talk: Why we need adult sex ed
Take my Adult Sex Ed Master Class:
My Website
Interested in my sexual health and hormone clinic? Waitlist is open
To learn more about GennaMD by Solv Wellness, visit gennaMD.com for 20% off your first order. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5. Providers can request patient education materials or samples at gennaMDHCP.com.
Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.https://www.joinmidi.com
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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1:07:37
316. The Alcohol Free Advantage
In this powerful episode, Dr. Kelly Casperson sits down with James Swanwick, alcohol-free advocate and entrepreneur, to unravel the truth about alcohol's impact on our health, relationships, and society. With 15 years of alcohol-free living under his belt, James shares how choosing not to drink isn’t about loss—it's about liberation.
Together, they explore the deeply ingrained cultural narratives that glamorize alcohol and the neuroscience behind why our brains keep reaching for that next drink. From celebrity endorsements to outdated health myths, James and Kelly challenge the illusion that alcohol equals a good life.
This conversation is packed with truth bombs, science, and personal insight into why being alcohol-free can unlock clarity, presence, and purpose—especially for high achievers and anyone craving a more fulfilling life.
What You'll Learn:
Why “alcohol-free” is a powerful choice—not a limitation
How cultural conditioning has normalized drinking from a young age
The truth about alcohol and brain degeneration
The real story behind alcohol and heart health myths
How dopamine drives alcohol cravings
The link between alcohol and dementia, anxiety, and relational breakdowns
Why more high performers are choosing sobriety for clarity and focus
How to confidently navigate social events without alcohol
The role of community in embracing a sober-curious or alcohol-free lifestyle
Why societal change around alcohol is already happening
Key Takeaways:
Alcohol-free is a choice, not a lamentation.
No amount of alcohol is beneficial for your health.
Drinking can disrupt relationships, performance, and mental clarity.
Alcohol is a drug—marketed as a reward but loaded with consequences.
Society is slowly waking up to the truth: we don’t need alcohol to celebrate, connect, or succeed.
Resources & Links:
Learn more about James Swanwick and his alcohol-free programs at jamesswanwick.com
Clear book by James Swanwick
To learn more about GennaMD by Solv Wellness, visit gennaMD.com for 20% off your first order. For an additional $5 off, use coupon code DRKELLY5. Providers can request patient education materials or samples at gennaMDHCP.com.
Thanks to our sponsor Midi Women's Health. Designed by midlife experts, delivered by experienced clinicians, covered by insurance.Midi is the first virtual care clinic made exclusively for women 40+. Evidence-based treatments. Personalized midlife care.https://www.joinmidi.com
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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53:42
315. BONUS - Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause Guidelines released today!
Late Breaking news today! Now we have guidelines!
Thanks to Dr. Rachel Rubin for coming on IG to do this live with me!
AUA GSM Guidelines
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Empowering women (and the partners who love them) to live their best mid lives. Combining the power of mind-work, body-science and relationships, I joyously smash the societal barriers that are keeping us from living our best intimate lives. Whether you are young or past menopause, single or in a long-term relationship, it is never too late or too early to realize YOU ARE NOT BROKEN. With humor, candor and ease, I break down the stories that we have been told about being sexual beings, to help us play, and normalize our intimacy and health. Nothing in this podcast is personal medical advice, of course.
Australia