Midlife weight gain feels like it sneaks up on us—and suddenly what used to work, doesn’t. In this episode, we sit down with our brilliant friend and fitness expert, Dena Pistor, for a no-BS conversation about what it actually takes to manage weight and feel better in perimenopause and beyond. Whether you're frustrated by belly fat that seems to appear overnight, curious about the truth behind diet shots, or just feeling stuck with your health goals, this is the conversation you need.We talk openly (and laugh a lot) about shifting hormones, genetic set points, unrealistic fitness expectations, and why those "quick fix" diets rarely work long term. Dena brings not only her expertise, but her realness—and reminds us what sustainable, holistic health looks like at this stage of life. Spoiler alert: it’s not about being perfect, it’s about finding what’s possible for you. Episode Highlights: [0:02] - Welcoming Dena Pistor and kicking off our midlife weight loss deep dive [1:51] - The “middle” shows up—belly fat, shifting hormones, and midlife body changes [4:35] - Dena explains the science of menopause weight gain and the high-estrogen effect [5:28] - Why slow weight loss might be more sustainable—and when it isn’t [9:34] - The critical role of sleep, stress, and daily activity in weight management [13:27] - “Fit and healthy is a third job”—real talk about time, priorities, and working out [17:33] - Hydration hacks and why water matters more than you think [18:28] - Letting go of the scale obsession and learning to trust your clothes [23:39] - Skipping meals and skimping on protein? Why that’s sabotaging your success [27:09] - “Stop eating selfishly”—rethinking food as fuel, not just pleasure [30:26] - Mediterranean diet love and the power of eating real, satisfying food [33:33] - European food habits vs. U.S. food culture—what we’re up against [36:56] - Gut health, sugar cravings, and stress eating cycles [37:59] - Diet shots like Zepbound—Dena’s evolving perspective and what to watch for [43:40] - Holistic health is the real goal—not shortcuts, but a sustainable lifestyle [44:50] - Final reflections on grace, effort, and why this journey is worth it If today's discussion resonated with you or sparked curiosity, please rate, follow, and share "Insights from the Couch" with others. Your support helps us reach more people and continue providing valuable insights. Here’s to finding our purposes and living a life full of meaning and joy. Stay tuned for more!