I Am Northwest Arkansas® Understanding Menopause: Real Talk, Real Solutions for Women in Northwest Arkansas
About the Show:
“Why did nobody tell me about this?”
– Dr. Kristin Markell
In this episode of I Am Northwest Arkansas®, host Randy Wilburn sits down with Dr. Kristin Markell, an integrative medicine specialist helping women navigate the often-overlooked journey of perimenopause and menopause. Dr. Markell combines her experience as a traditional OB/GYN with holistic, whole-person strategies to provide personalized care for women in Northwest Arkansas and beyond.
Together, Randy and Dr. Markell break down the basics of perimenopause and menopause—including what these terms really mean, when symptoms can start, and why every woman’s experience is unique. Dr. Markell shares her personal and professional journey, the frustration women feel about the lack of education on these topics, and how integrative medicine can help women feel their best through this stage of life.
The episode also explores how families, employers, and the wider community can better support women during this transition, as well as the emerging innovations and digital tools empowering women to take charge of their health.
If you’re a woman, love a woman, work with women, or are simply curious, this is an important conversation for you.
Key Takeaways:
- Menopause is natural but often misunderstood: Most women aren’t taught about perimenopause and menopause early enough. Symptoms can start as early as a woman’s 30s—not just in the 50s or 60s—and everyone’s experience is different.
- Definitions matter: Menopause is officially when a woman hasn’t had a period for one year; perimenopause is the 7-10 years leading up to that.
- Symptoms are more than hot flashes: Every area of the body can be affected, from brain fog and anxiety to fatigue, aches, and sexual health changes.
- You don’t have to “just deal with it”: Dr. Markell urges women not to “white knuckle” through symptoms—there are treatments and support, including both hormonal and non-hormonal options.
- Integrative medicine offers personalized care: Dr. Markell’s approach looks at the whole person, from nutrition to stress to long-term wellness, not just the symptoms.
- Support is a team effort: Family, partners, co-workers, and employers all play a role in helping women thrive during this time.
- Resources are growing: New digital tools, wearables, and dedicated clinics (including right here in NWA!) are giving women greater access to care and information.
All this and more on this episode of the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast.
Important Links and Mentions on the Show*
- Dr. Kristin Markell’s Website: https://kristinmarkellmd.com
- The Menopause Society: https://www.menopause.org
- Dr. Markell on Instagram: @kristenmarkellmd
- Dr. Markell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinmarkellmd/
- Contact Dr. Markell’s Office: 479-222-0966
- You can listen to the I Am Northwest Arkansas® podcast weekly on KUAF 91.3 FM’s Ozarks at Large
(Other resources and episodes mentioned: Mel Robbins, “The Diary of a CEO” with Steven Bartlett, Dr. Peter Attia & Dr. Rachel Rubin Podcast, Midi Health, Electra Health)
- FindItNWA.com NWA’s Hyperlocal Business Directory
This episode is sponsored by*
Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"
Signature Bank of Arkansas "Community Banking at its Best!"
*Note: some of the resources mentioned may be affiliate links. This means we get paid a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use that link to make a purchase.
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Mentioned in this episode:
FindItNWA.com
Looking to discover the best local businesses in Northwest Arkansas? 🌟 From cozy cafes to essential services, FindItNWA.com has got you covered. Connect with your local community with just one click and explore something great. Visit finditnwa.com today! #LocalBusiness #CommunitySupport"
Winetopia 2025
We’re back at the barn! Winetopia is THE annual event that highlights the best of what our NWA Community has to offer, and we are thrilled to be back at the Barn at the Stonebreaker this year! Winetopia is where you can taste incredible top-tier wine, local craft beer, top-shelf bourbon, a variety of other spirits from our favorite local distilleries, AND hand-crafted mocktails. A specially-selected menu from Stonebreaker catering and our favorite Mia Tarts round out the evening! A ticket is all you need to access one of the most special nights of the year. Your favorite features from Winetopia will be there - the famous wine toss with Carny in the Corner, DJ Shortfuze spinning smooth tracks all night long, and the best silent auction around! You’ve been waiting all year for this event, and it’s now around the corner! We cannot wait to see you there!
Apple Seeds An Evening at the Farm, Saturday, October 11th, 2025
Evening at the Farm is a celebration of community and togetherness. Gather with friends, family, and fellow food enthusiasts for a memorable farm-to-table meal. What began as a small gathering has grown into one of our most beloved traditions, celebrating the flavors of the season and the community that makes it all possible. By attending this event, you'll not only treat yourself to an unforgettable culinary experience but also support our mission to empower and nourish our community.