Hormones and their role in women’s health have long been understudied, misunderstood, and controversial. Following a new interpretation of the landmark Women’s Health Initiative study, the subject is under discussion more than ever. Dr. Elizabeth Poynor is here to share her expertise. An Ivy League-educated and heavily credentialed surgeon and gynecologic oncologist, her work has been dedicated to midlife women’s health. She also happens to be Martha’s own doctor. Dr. Poynor, now the Chair of Women’s Health & Gynecology at Atria, has seen how crucial hormones are to understanding the overall health and well-being of women. She joins Martha today for a candid conversation about the risks and benefits of hormone support, how to pay attention to the body’s signals, and the science that helps explain “why” lifestyle changes impact the body.

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Michael Kelly has played scores of CIA agents, political operatives, and military personnel during his prolific acting career. From roles like Doug Stamper in House of Cards to Byron Westfield in Lioness, the actor has perfected a steely gaze and great monologues. But even though Michael says “you’d never know I have teeth” by watching those characters, Martha knows another side of him – a prolific actor, family man and neighbor with a ready smile and a great sense of humor. Listen as they chat about working with the hitmaker Taylor Sheridan and the all-star cast of Lioness, what he’s learned about real-life politics from his roles, and what he’s looking forward to next.

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This week, Martha talks to best-selling author Ann Leary about letting go of the need to be “nice,” a subject Ann explores in the title essay of her new book, “I’ve Tried Being Nice.” Following a passive-aggressive neighborhood squabble, this wry, witty author made the abrupt decision to stop being a people pleaser. She shares with Martha how that came about, plus how she works at her writing and the family stories that have helped shape it. From a nomadic childhood to her marriage to actor Denis Leary, Ann’s observations make for funny, relatable books – and a thoroughly enjoyable conversation with Martha.

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