474. Obesity Medicine and the willpower women don’t lack, with Dr Michelle Gordon

This week, I sat down with Dr Michelle Gordon - ex-surgeon, turned board-certified obesity medicine specialist, based in NY, USA. Dr Gordon is a woman who’s walked the path of shame, self-doubt, and relentless pursuit of health only to discover her body’s deeper story, so the power of that as it has informed her practice to support women is something you can truly feel.  Michelle has become a fierce advocate for women navigating midlife weight struggles, metabolic adaptation, and the reality that what works for men and some women, doesn’t always work for other women. We dive into the theory of set point weight, the power of GLP-1 medications like terzepatide and what the weigh ups are - I love that she said “it’s not for losing 10 pounds and we do NOT want to bring back heroin chic!”She explains why obesity is a disease - not a personal failing and not a clap back of the body positivity movement. Michelle also unpacks the systemic gaps in women’s health research, the impact of patriarchy on our bodies and what we’re chasing, and why it’s time to stop blaming ourselves for a system that’s set up to fail us whether that’s the beauty standards or the ultra processed foods that are so highly addictive. If you’ve ever felt like you’re fighting your own biology, this conversation is your permission to pause, question, and reclaim your power. I really felt it myself as this has often been a story in my life, too. If you need this show or a friend does out there - I do so hope it’s a shame-destroyer for many. You find the path and tools you want or need and lifestyle around those is always beneficial. Alexx StuartYour Host  Fancy a few more podcasts we’ve done over the years, related to this one?Show #389 Metabolism: It’s time to Retire the “Willpower” Message and Understand the Person, Says Lara BridenWant to learn more about this week’s guest? Website: https://drmichellegordon.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/doctormichellegordon/ Thank you to this month’s show partners for joining us to help you make your low tox swaps! @waterscofilters is giving you an added saving off their sale price, giving you 27% off their BIO 500 5.25L benchtop filter until April 15 - Perfect for couples/small families. Head to waterscoaustralia.com.au - Use code LOWTOXWATER - a market leader for 40 years, they filter everything bad out, including PFAS/microplastics, and ensure trace minerals are kept IN for deep hydration. @ausclimate is our major partner giving you 10% off their range for the whole of 2025, with brilliant Winix Air Purifiers, the best Dehumidifiers I’ve ever used and their new energy-efficient heating, air-circulating and cooling range. code LOWTOXLIFE (also works over and above their sales - pro tip!) https://bit.ly/ShopAusclimateBe sure to join me on Instagram @lowtoxlife and tag me with your shares and AHAs if something resonated! I love to s