278 The Muscle-Longevity Connection: Strength Training Supports Metabolism, Bones, and Healthy Longevity with Jeanne Phares

What role does muscle strength play in healthy aging, longevity, and independence? In this episode, Dr. Gillian Lockitch speaks with Jeanne Phares about why maintaining and building muscle becomes increasingly important for women during and after menopause. Drawing on her personal experience as a leukemia survivor and decades of strength training, Jeanne explains the connections between muscle mass, metabolism, bone health, resilience, and recovery. Listeners will learn practical strategies for strength training, nutrition, and lifestyle habits that support vitality and  healthspan  at every age.
Jeanne Phares is Founder of Sage Lifestyle Collective and creator of the Sage Strength Transformation Program. She is a Certified Health & Wellness Coach, Strength Trainer, and author specializing in women's health after 50. Prior to entering the health field, she enjoyed a successful career as a Certified Public Accountant and executive mentor. Her work focuses on strength training, nutrition, menopause education, and healthy aging for women. She helps women build muscle, improve metabolic health, and maintain independence throughout midlife and beyond. A leukemia survivor, she credits decades of strength training with helping her withstand intensive treatment and recovery.  

Episode Timeline  

00:00 – Welcome and introduction  

03:00 – Why muscle strength predicts healthy aging and longevity  

04:36 – Jeanne's journey from CPA to health and wellness coach  

05:30 – Leukemia diagnosis and the role of physical resilience in recovery  

09:30 – Stem cell transplant and rebuilding strength after illness  

13:15 – Turning health challenges into opportunities for growth  

15:46 – Common misconceptions about lifting weights after 50  

18:35 – Why walking and yoga alone may not be enough  

20:00 – Muscle health, bone strength, and menopause  

23:53 – Strength training as the foundation of healthy aging  

25:15 – Nutrition mistakes women commonly make after menopause  

28:49 – Hydration, electrolytes, and healthy aging  

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