Uploaded June 2025 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
The Michael Shermer Show # 526
When award-winning science writer Amy Alkon was blindsided by her first hot flash, it kicked off a cascade of symptoms—drenching night sweats, insomnia, and a rage she couldn’t explain. But what shocked her more was how little real science her doctor had to offer.
In this episode, Alkon shares what she uncovered in her deep dive into the research on menopause and perimenopause—the critical yet often neglected years leading up to menopause when millions of women are misdiagnosed, dismissed, or simply told to “wait it out.” Drawing from her new book Going Menopostal, she explains why so much medical advice is still based on outdated or inadequate evidence, and what women can do about it.
Alkon breaks down complex science with clarity, humor, and a healthy dose of skepticism, giving listeners the tools they need to ask better questions, advocate for themselves, and get the care they deserve. Whether you’re in the thick of it or simply want to be prepared, or want to support your loved ones going through menopause, this episode will leave you informed, empowered, and maybe even laughing.
Amy Alkon is an independent investigative science writer specializing in “applied science”—using scientific evidence to solve real-world problems. Alkon critically evaluates and synthesizes research across disciplines and then translates it into everyday language, empowering regular people to make scientifically informed decisions for the best of their health and well-being.
For 25 years, Alkon wrote an award-winning, science-based nationally syndicated advice column, distributed by Creators. She is the author of five books—most recently, her “science-help” book Unfuckology: How to Live with Guts and Confidence (St. Martin’s Press, 2018). She is the past President of the Applied Evolutionary Psychology Society, which brings evolutionary science to public policy, education, and medicine. Her new book is Going Menopostal: What You (And Your Doctor) Need to Know About the Real Science of Menopause and Perimenopause
SUPPORT THE PODCAST
If you enjoy the podcast, please show your support by making a $5 or $10 monthly donation.
skeptic.com/donate
#michaelshermer
#skeptic
Listen to The Michael Shermer Show or subscribe directly on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music.
skeptic.com/michael-shermer-show
The Michael Shermer Show # 526
When award-winning science writer Amy Alkon was blindsided by her first hot flash, it kicked off a cascade of symptoms—drenching night sweats, insomnia, and a rage she couldn’t explain. But what shocked her more was how little real science her doctor had to offer.
In this episode, Alkon shares what she uncovered in her deep dive into the research on menopause and perimenopause—the critical yet often neglected years leading up to menopause when millions of women are misdiagnosed, dismissed, or simply told to “wait it out.” Drawing from her new book Going Menopostal, she explains why so much medical advice is still based on outdated or inadequate evidence, and what women can do about it.
Alkon breaks down complex science with clarity, humor, and a healthy dose of skepticism, giving listeners the tools they need to ask better questions, advocate for themselves, and get the care they deserve. Whether you’re in the thick of it or simply want to be prepared, or want to support your loved ones going through menopause, this episode will leave you informed, empowered, and maybe even laughing.
Amy Alkon is an independent investigative science writer specializing in “applied science”—using scientific evidence to solve real-world problems. Alkon critically evaluates and synthesizes research across disciplines and then translates it into everyday language, empowering regular people to make scientifically informed decisions for the best of their health and well-being.
For 25 years, Alkon wrote an award-winning, science-based nationally syndicated advice column, distributed by Creators. She is the author of five books—most recently, her “science-help” book Unfuckology: How to Live with Guts and Confidence (St. Martin’s Press, 2018). She is the past President of the Applied Evolutionary Psychology Society, which brings evolutionary science to public policy, education, and medicine. Her new book is Going Menopostal: What You (And Your Doctor) Need to Know About the Real Science of Menopause and Perimenopause
SUPPORT THE PODCAST
If you enjoy the podcast, please show your support by making a $5 or $10 monthly donation.
skeptic.com/donate
#michaelshermer
#skeptic
Listen to The Michael Shermer Show or subscribe directly on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music.
skeptic.com/michael-shermer-show
