Alison Wayne's Transformation: From Medications to Muscle in Midlife

In a transformative episode of the "Health is a Skill" podcast, Todd Vande Hei, CEO of Stark, engages in a candid discussion with Alison Wayne, a 55-year-old mother and health advocate, who shares her journey of redefining vitality in midlife. Recorded on July 18, 2025, in Beverly Hills, California, this discussion highlights Wayne’s remarkable shift from reliance on alcohol and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) to an emphasis on physical strength and family involvement in health.

Historically, midlife transitions have often been associated with declines in health and vitality, particularly for women facing menopause. According to Dr. Susan Smith, a Professor of Women’s Health at the University of California, Los Angeles, these transitions can lead to significant physical and emotional challenges. “Women often feel a societal pressure to conform to certain health standards during midlife, which can lead to feelings of inadequacy,” Smith stated in her 2022 publication in the Journal of Women’s Health.

Wayne's journey began with a reevaluation of her health metrics. Previously focused on the bathroom scale and nightly wine consumption, she experienced a pivotal change after suffering from perimenopause migraines that prompted her to explore alternative health solutions. She adopted seed cycling and nutritional supplements, ultimately deciding to discontinue SSRIs after a challenging three-week withdrawal process. “That might have been the hardest thing I’ve ever done,” Wayne remarked, reflecting on her struggles during the transition. “But I don’t ever miss it.”

The crux of Wayne’s transformation lies in her commitment to building muscle. She increased her protein intake from 30 grams to an impressive 130 grams daily, effectively curbing cravings and enhancing her physical strength. This shift not only led to a decrease in dress size but also underscored the principle that a stronger body can weigh more yet appear leaner. Dr. Mark Thompson, a nutrition specialist at Stanford University, reinforces this, stating, “Muscle is often referred to as the ‘longevity organ’ due to its essential role in metabolic health,” as noted in his 2023 study published in the International Journal of Obesity.

Wayne emphasized the importance of a proactive approach to health, suggesting that many ailments can be prevented through lifestyle choices rather than waiting for medical crises. She explained how identifying specific dietary triggers helped alleviate her gut issues. This proactive mindset is echoed by Vande Hei, who asserted, “It’s not the intensity, it’s the consistency. Doing a decent job every day beats doing an amazing job sometimes. Over time, it transforms everything.”

Moreover, Wayne’s influence has extended to her family, transforming her household dynamics. Her two sons, previously reliant on sugary sodas, have become active participants in her health journey, adopting macro-tracking and healthier eating habits. “We reshaped the pantry from snack cakes to sweet potatoes,” Wayne noted, illustrating the family’s collective shift towards wellness.

The implications of Wayne’s story resonate beyond personal health, touching on broader societal narratives surrounding midlife health and wellness. According to the World Health Organization, individuals aged 50 and older are projected to represent a significant portion of the global population by 2050, highlighting the need for comprehensive health strategies tailored to older adults.

In conclusion, Alison Wayne's journey serves as a compelling case study in the potential for midlife reinvention through lifestyle changes. As more individuals like Wayne share their stories, society may begin to shift its perception of midlife from a period of decline to one of opportunity and growth. The future of health in midlife, as promoted by initiatives like "Health is a Skill," suggests that with the right tools and mindset, individuals can redefine their health narratives.

Listeners can access the full episode on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. For further information about Stark’s personalized wellness approach, visit stark.health.