Exercise Physiology for Women w/ Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple, EP 213

In this episode, Marcos and Seamus are joined by Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple, PhD in Integrative Physiology and Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist. She's a researcher and science communicator specializing in female physiology, exercise, and nutrition, with extensive hands-on experience helping hundreds of women through every stage of life. Dr. Colenso-Semple co-owns the MASS Research Review, bridging the gap between cutting-edge research and practical strategies for coaches and trainers, and is known for fact-checking fitness and nutrition myths spread by online influencers. Her blend of scientific rigor and real-world coaching experience makes her a go-to voice for evidence-based guidance for women at every life stage.

Time Stamps
0:01 — Intro & guest

1:17 — Lauren's origin story

3:26 — Science vs. anecdote

6:56 — Anecdote vs. literature

12:08 — Hormone fear-mongering

17:45 — Social media clickbait

21:24 — Supplement examples

27:08 — Body composition goals

32:15 — Cycle syncing discussion

37:32 — Knee injuries aside

40:39 — Athlete readiness beliefs

44:45 — Contraceptives & bone density

48:30 — Wearables & heart rate

51:16 — Cortisol fear-mongering

55:44 — Insulin/cortisol parallels

58:38 — Data overload autonomy

62:02 — Coaching with grace

63:51 — Pregnancy training intro

66:29 — Pregnancy research limits

68:42 — Practical pregnancy implications

72:27 — Female life-stage individualization

75:45 — Closing thoughts & outro

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About the Podcast:

The Macro Perspective is hosted by Marcos Rivera and Seamus Sullivan, and was born from a simple but powerful mission: to help people take ownership of their health and lives. As performance health coaches, they've spent their careers empowering clients to think critically, stay curious, and make informed choices—not just in fitness, but in all aspects of life. This podcast is an extension of that mission, bringing insightful conversations that challenge, educate, and inspire.