When you’re navigating perimenopause and you lose someone you love, the emotional weight doesn’t just sit in your heart—it moves through your body. Sleep changes. Blood sugar swings. Energy drops. Irritability rises. You question your strength. You wonder why you’re not “handling it better.”

In this Tuesday solo episode of Hello Hot Flash, I share personally about losing my last great aunt—the keeper of our family history—and my sister, who fought cancer with courage and strength. And I teach what’s actually happening inside your body when grief and hormonal change collide.

We’ll explore how cortisol, the HPA axis, estrogen shifts, and nervous system dysregulation all interact during seasons of loss. And we’ll look at how faith, lament, and community are not emotional crutches—they are biologically supportive tools that help your body process stress.

This episode will help you stop criticizing yourself about the way you grieve and help you to start understanding your body.

Grief and menopause are both transitions. And both require informed stewardship, not self-judgment.

• What happens to cortisol, blood sugar, sleep, and immunity when you experience grief during perimenopause or post-menopause
• How the HPA axis and fluctuating estrogen can intensify emotional and physical symptoms in midlife
• Why pushing through, staying busy, or “praying harder” can prolong stress physiology instead of resolving it
• How lament, prayer, and safe community relationships help regulate your nervous system
• Practical strategies to support your body, metabolism, and faith during seasons of loss

This is a Tuesday Solo Episode with Stephanie Shaw, host of Hello Hot Flash. Stephanie teaches midlife women how to navigate menopause with science-backed strategy, metabolic clarity, and faith-informed confidence.

To learn more about this episode, click here:
https://hellohotflash.com/grief-loss-and-menopause

Listen to the limited-series podcast Christian Women and Menopause:
https://hellohotflash.com/christian-women-and-menopause

In this episode, Stephanie Shaw is joined by Lauren Tetenbaum, therapist, menopause educator, and author of Millennial Menopause, for a powerful conversation about how to talk to your daughter about perimenopause in a way that builds trust, confidence, and lifelong body literacy.

Together, they unpack why silence around menopause has created confusion, shame, and delayed care—and how honest, age-appropriate conversations can change that trajectory. You’ll learn how to explain hormonal changes without fear, normalize symptoms without minimizing them, and model self-advocacy instead of self-sacrifice.

This episode is especially meaningful if you’re navigating your own fatigue, weight changes, brain fog, or emotional shifts while trying to show up as a grounded, supportive parent. Rather than needing perfect answers, your daughter needs openness, language, and permission to listen to her body—starting now.

• What perimenopause actually is and why many women experience symptoms earlier than expected
• How to talk to your daughter about hormonal changes in an age-appropriate, empowering way
• Why normalizing menopause conversations protects long-term physical and mental health
• How to model self-care, boundaries, and body awareness instead of burnout and guilt
• The role education and emotional intelligence play in helping young women advocate for their health

To learn more about our guest, click here:
https://hellohotflash.com/episodes/millennials-and-perimenopause

Listen to the limited-series podcast Christian Women and Menopause:
https://hellohotflash.com/christian-women-and-menopause

In this episode, Stephanie Shaw is joined by Victoria Maizes, MD, founding executive director of the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine, to explore how women can support healing, energy, and resilience without relying solely on medication. Dr. Maizes brings decades of clinical and academic experience to a conversation that reframes symptoms not as failures, but as signals.

You’ll learn how integrative medicine looks at the whole person—nutrition, movement, stress, sleep, environment, and meaning—rather than isolating symptoms. This approach is especially powerful during menopause, when hormonal shifts can affect energy, weight, mood, and motivation all at once.

Rather than pushing extreme routines or perfection, this episode focuses on practical, sustainable ways to support your body’s natural healing capacity. If you’re exhausted by conflicting advice, tired of “all-or-nothing” health plans, or feeling disconnected from your body’s signals, this conversation offers clarity, compassion, and a grounded path forward.

• Why whole-body healing requires addressing lifestyle, stress, nutrition, and environment—not just symptoms
• How integrative medicine supports energy, metabolism, and vitality during midlife transitions
• The role of food, movement, sleep, and mindset in restoring balance without extreme protocols
• Why women’s bodies often need a different approach to healing during menopause
• How to work with your body’s innate healing ability instead of fighting it

About Our Guest

To learn more about our guest, click here:
https://hellohotflash.com/episodes/heal-without-hormones-victoria-maizes

In this episode, Stephanie Shaw is joined by board-certified functional health coach Anu Simh, founder of Nine Arms of Wellness, to explore how gut health acts as a command center for hormones, metabolism, inflammation, and energy—especially during perimenopause and menopause.

As estrogen levels decline, the gut microbiome becomes more vulnerable, influencing everything from blood sugar regulation and mood to how energized or depleted you feel after meals. Anu explains why many women feel worse after eating, why restrictive plans often backfire, and how stress, ultra-processed foods, poor sleep, and chronic dieting quietly disrupt gut balance.

Rather than pushing extreme protocols or “all-or-nothing” routines, this conversation offers a more compassionate, sustainable approach to wellness—one that focuses on nourishment, resilience, and understanding how your body actually works in midlife.

If you’re tired of conflicting nutrition advice, overwhelmed by where to start, or frustrated that your body no longer responds the way it used to, this episode will help you stop blaming yourself and start supporting your gut, hormones, and energy with clarity and confidence.

• Why gut health plays a central role in hormone balance, energy, metabolism, and brain function during menopause
• How declining estrogen impacts gut permeability, inflammation, and nutrient absorption
• The difference between probiotics, prebiotics, and fiber—and why all three matter for midlife health
• How stress, poor sleep, alcohol, and ultra-processed foods quietly disrupt the microbiome
• Simple, sustainable ways to support gut health without extreme dieting or perfection

About Our Guest:
Anu Simh is a board-certified functional health coach and founder of Nine Arms of Wellness. She specializes in helping busy women improve gut health to support hormones, energy, weight, and brain function. Anu is the author of Microbiome Flourish From Within and trains coaches in a holistic, microbiome-centered approach to wellness.

To learn more about our guest, click here:
https://hellohotflash.com/episodes/gut-health-anu-simh

Learn how to feel clear, steady, and in control again:
https://hellohotflash.com/assessments

Listen to the limited-series podcast Christian Women and Menopause:
https://hellohotflash.com/christian-women-and-menopause

This Episode’s Sponsor is Reverse Health
Check out Reverse Health and use promo code HOTFLASH for 10% off:
https://www.rgds43jd.com/G1S938/7XDN2/

In this episode of Hello, Hot Flash, we unpack what’s really happening when you feel on edge during perimenopause and post-menopause. You’ll learn how shifting estrogen levels impact your brain, mood, and stress response — and why even small stressors can suddenly feel big. We also talk about the hidden role of blood sugar swings, poor sleep, and nervous system overload in anxiety and emotional reactivity.

Then we layer in something deeper: how faith and science work together. Because understanding the biology of stress is powerful — but inviting God into your reactions is what helps you respond with steadiness instead of impulse.

If you’ve been eating healthy, trying to hold it together, and still wondering why your patience feels thinner than it used to, this conversation will help you stop blaming yourself and start understanding your body.

What You Will Learn

• Why estrogen fluctuations in perimenopause can increase anxiety, irritability, and emotional sensitivity
  • How blood sugar, sleep loss, and nervous system overload amplify feeling “on edge”
  • Simple science-backed tools to calm your body before emotions escalate
  • How to recognize emotional patterns instead of labeling yourself as impatient or dramatic
  • How faith and practical habits work together to help you respond with steadiness instead of guilt

To listen to this this episode, click here:
https://hellohotflash.com/episodes/feeling-on-edge

Additional Resources

• Learn how to feel clear, steady, and in control again:
  https://hellohotflash.com/assessments
• The limited-series podcast Christian Women and Menopause teaches what the Bible says about stress, anxiety, health, and confidence in midlife. Listen here: https://hellohotflash.com/christian-women-and-menopause
• Hello, Hot Flash Episodes About Sleep: Ep 112, Ep 178, Ep 257

In this powerful and deeply human conversation, storyteller, performer, and cultural icon Satori Shakoor shares her journey from the funk-filled stages of Parliament Funkadelic to the deeply personal, laugh-out-loud honesty of her one-woman film Confessions of a Menopausal Femme Fatale. With warmth, humor, and fearless truth, Satori invites women to step out of silence and into self-expression during midlife.

Through stories of music, identity, aging, and resilience, this episode dismantles shame, challenges outdated narratives about menopause, and replaces them with curiosity, compassion, and courage. If you’ve ever felt confused, exhausted, unseen, or disconnected from your body during this season, this conversation will help you reconnect with your power, your voice, and your story.

What You Will Learn

• Why menopause deserves open conversation, not silence, shame, or dismissal
  
  
• How storytelling and humor can help heal emotional, hormonal, and identity shifts in midlife
  
  
• The powerful lessons Satori learned from George Clinton about authenticity, confidence, and self-expression
  
  
• How reframing aging can restore energy, purpose, and self-trust
  
  
• Why embracing your full story—including struggle—can unlock confidence and freedom

Satori Shakoor is a dynamic storyteller, performer, and founder of Detroit’s Secret Society of Twisted Storytellers. A former background singer with George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic, Satori blends humor, music, and raw honesty to empower women navigating menopause, aging, and identity.

To learn more about our guest, click here:

https://hellohotflash.com/episodes/menopausal-femme-fatale

Learn how to feel clear, steady, and in control again:

https://hellohotflash.com/assessments

Listen to the limited-series podcast Christian Women and Menopause:

https://hellohotflash.com/christian-women-and-menopause

This Episode’s Sponsor is Reverse Health:

Check out Reverse Health and use promo code HOTFLASH for a 10% discount:

https://www.rgds43jd.com/G1S938/7XDN2/

We explore why sleep disruption becomes so common during menopause, how declining estrogen and progesterone affect REM sleep, and why poor sleep doesn’t just leave you tired—it impacts metabolism, mood, memory, and long-term health. You’ll also learn why quick fixes like late-night scrolling, snacking, or sleep aids often backfire and worsen the problem.

Blending science with faith, this episode reframes sleep as more than a physical function—it’s a sacred rhythm your body and spirit both need. Through practical strategies and spiritual grounding, you’ll discover how to calm racing thoughts, reduce nighttime cortisol, and create a sleep routine your body can trust again.

This conversation is especially for women who feel exhausted after meals, overwhelmed before bed, discouraged by inconsistency, or stuck in negative self-talk around health and habits. You’ll walk away with permission to stop forcing rest—and start supporting it.

• Why hormonal changes in menopause disrupt REM sleep, increase night sweats, and make falling asleep harder
  
  
• How elevated cortisol, inflammation, and poor sleep are linked to weight gain, brain fog, and long-term health risks
  
  
• The role of consistent routines, light exposure, meal timing, and sleep environment in restoring circadian rhythm
  
  
• Why quick sleep fixes often worsen insomnia and delay melatonin production
  
  
• How integrating faith, Scripture, and prayer can calm the nervous system and support deeper, more peaceful rest
  
  

Stephanie Shaw is the host of the Hello Hot Flash podcast, where she educates and empowers women navigating midlife and menopause through science-backed health conversations and faith-centered perspectives. She is also the creator of the limited-series podcast Christian Women and Menopause.

Learn how to feel clear, steady, and in control again:

https://hellohotflash.com/assessments 

Listen to the limited-series podcast Christian Women and Menopause:

https://hellohotflash.com/christian-women-and-menopause

Reach out to Stephanie: https://hellohotflash.com and scroll to the bottom

In this episode of Hello, Hot Flash, we explore intermittent fasting through both a science-backed and faith-centered lens. You’ll learn how fasting actually works in the body during menopause, which approaches tend to be better tolerated in midlife, and why fasting has historically been used not for control—but for clarity, humility, and alignment.

If you’re eating “healthy” but still struggling with weight, energy crashes, guilt, or confusion about what your body needs now, this episode will help you move away from extremes and toward sustainable rhythms that support both your body and your spirit.

What You Will Learn

• What intermittent fasting is—and why it’s not a diet, cleanse, or quick fix
  
  
• How fasting affects insulin, inflammation, metabolism, and cellular repair during menopause
  
  
• The most common intermittent fasting methods and how to approach them safely in midlife
  
  
• Why cortisol, sleep, and stress regulation matter more than longer fasts for menopausal women
  
  
• How fasting can create space for clarity, reflection, and spiritual grounding without shame or pressure

Stephanie Shaw is the host of the Hello Hot Flash podcast, where she educates and empowers women navigating midlife and menopause through science-backed health conversations and faith-centered perspectives. She is also the creator of the limited-series podcast Christian Women and Menopause.

Learn how to feel clear, steady, and in control again:

https://hellohotflash.com/assessments

Listen to the limited-series podcast Christian Women and Menopause:

https://hellohotflash.com/christian-women-and-menopause

In this conversation, Stephanie Shaw sits down with Rita Black, a clinical hypnotherapist with more than 20 years of experience helping people create lasting change through subconscious reprogramming. Rita explains why traditional dieting, restriction, and “trying harder” often backfire in midlife—and how hypnosis works beneath the surface to realign beliefs, identity, and behavior.

For women navigating hormonal shifts, fatigue, weight resistance, and self-doubt, this episode reframes change as mastery, not punishment. Rita shares why habits like emotional eating, nighttime overeating, or smoking aren’t failures of discipline—but signals from the subconscious mind. When the conscious mind and subconscious beliefs are misaligned, even the healthiest intentions can feel exhausting or impossible to maintain.

You’ll also hear why metabolism, stress, and identity play a powerful role in midlife weight gain—and how hypnosis can help reduce internal resistance, quiet negative self-talk, and restore a sense of control. This episode is especially helpful if you feel overwhelmed, stuck in “all-or-nothing” thinking, or frustrated that what used to work no longer does.

If you’re ready to stop fighting your body and start working with your mind, this episode will shift how you see change—starting from the inside out.

• • Why habits like overeating or smoking are driven by subconscious patterns, not lack of willpower
  • How hypnosis works to realign beliefs, identity, and behavior for lasting change
  • The connection between stress, metabolism, and weight resistance in midlife
  • Why viewing health as mastery—not dieting—leads to more sustainable results
  • How subconscious reframing can reduce self-sabotage and negative self-talk

About Our Guest

Rita Black C.Ht. is a clinical hypnotherapist and leading expert in both the arenas of smoking cessation and weight loss. She is the author of the best selling From Fat to Thin Thinking:Unlock Your Mind for Permanent Weight Loss and the host of the Thin Thinking podcast.
To learn more about our guest, click here:
https://hellohotflash.com/episodes/stop-smoking-lose-weight

• • • Learn how to feel clear, steady, and in control again. https://hellohotflash.com/assessments
    • The limited-series podcast Christian Women and Menopause teaches what the Bible says about stress, anxiety, health, and confidence in midlife. Listen here: https://hellohotflash.com/christian-women-and-menopause

This episode is sponsored by Reverse Health.
Use promo code HOTFLASH for 10% off:
https://www.rgds43jd.com/G1S938/7XDN2/

In this powerful episode, Stephanie Shaw sits down with award-winning journalist and author Meghan Rabbitt to unpack why so many women in midlife feel unheard, dismissed, or confused about their health—and what it actually takes to change that. Meghan shares insights from her book New Rules of Women’s Health, revealing how women can move from passive patients to informed, confident advocates.

This conversation is especially important for women navigating menopause, fatigue, stubborn weight changes, and energy crashes—who are often told “everything looks normal” while feeling anything but. Meghan breaks down how to prepare for medical appointments, ask better questions, and recognize when something isn’t being fully addressed.

You’ll also hear why involving partners and loved ones in women’s health conversations matters more than ever, and how bridging the gender gap in healthcare understanding can lead to better outcomes—not just for women, but for families as a whole.

If you’ve ever left an appointment feeling dismissed, overwhelmed, or unsure of your next step, this episode will help you reclaim your voice and your confidence in caring for your health.

• Why women are more likely to experience medical gaslighting—and how to prevent it
• How to prepare for healthcare appointments so your concerns are taken seriously
• Tools for navigating complex health decisions during menopause and midlife
• The importance of understanding medical information instead of outsourcing your authority
• How involving partners and allies can improve women’s long-term health outcomes

About Our Guest:
Meghan Rabbitt is an award-winning journalist, author, and women’s health advocate. Through her book New Rules of Women’s Health, she empowers women with practical, evidence-based tools to navigate healthcare, advocate for proper care, and bridge the gender gap in medical understanding.

To learn more about our guest, click here:
https://hellohotflash.com/episodes/new-rules-meghan-rabbitt

Learn how to feel clear, steady, and in control again:
https://hellohotflash.com/assessments

Listen to the limited-series podcast Christian Women and Menopause:
https://hellohotflash.com/christian-women-and-menopause

Life in midlife can feel like a constant sprint—especially during perimenopause and post-menopause. Between shifting hormones, changing energy levels, and the mental load of work, family, and health, many women find themselves simply trying to get through the day. But surviving is not the same as thriving.

In this short but powerful episode, we explore what it really means to meditate on God all day—not as a formal practice reserved for quiet mornings, but as a way of living that shapes your thoughts, decisions, and responses in every moment. Grounded in Scripture and real-life experience, this segment connects faith, mindset, and intentional living during seasons of physical and emotional change.

Using Psalm 19:14 and Joshua 1:8 as anchors, this episode reframes meditation as an active, daily alignment of your heart and mind with God’s Word. You’ll hear how intentional meditation—just like intentional health goals—creates clarity, steadiness, and direction, even when your body feels unpredictable.

This conversation is especially meaningful for women navigating menopause who feel overwhelmed, depleted, or disconnected from themselves and from God. True healing doesn’t come from faith alone or physical strategies alone—it comes when both work together. Even one intentional minute, repeated throughout the day, can restore peace, confidence, and purpose.

What You Will Learn

• Why meditating on God’s Word throughout the day matters more than a single quiet-time routine
  
  
• How subconscious thought patterns influence stress, energy, and emotional resilience during menopause
  
  
• The connection between intentional meditation, mindset, and aligning daily actions with your values
  
  
• Simple, practical ways to integrate Scripture and prayer into ordinary moments
  
  
• How consistent, small acts of faith can lead to deep spiritual and emotional transformation

Menopause is often treated as a reproductive milestone—but the brain may be the most impacted organ of all. As estrogen declines, many women experience brain fog, memory changes, mood shifts, and rising concern about long-term neurological health. This episode reframes menopause as a critical window for protecting the brain, not something to simply “push through.”

Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl, neurologist and professor at UCLA, explains why women are more vulnerable than men to conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and multiple sclerosis—and how estrogen plays a central, protective role. She shares science-backed insights into Estriol, a patented form of estrogen that targets the brain’s estrogen receptor beta, offering neuroprotection while reducing breast-related risks.

This conversation empowers women to move beyond fear-based messaging around hormone therapy and instead understand how individualized estrogen treatment, combined with lifestyle support, can protect cognitive health and quality of life in midlife and beyond.

What You Will Learn

• Why declining estrogen during menopause directly impacts brain health, cognition, and inflammation
  
  
• How Estriol differs from traditional estrogen therapies and why it may offer safer neuroprotection
  
  
• The connection between estrogen, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s disease risk in women
  
  
• Why individualized hormone therapy matters more than one-size-fits-all approaches
  
  
• How lifestyle strategies work alongside estrogen therapy to support long-term cognitive well-being
  

About Our Guest:

Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl is a renowned neurologist and professor at UCLA, specializing in women’s brain health, multiple sclerosis, and Alzheimer’s disease. Her research focuses on estrogen therapy and neuroprotection during menopause.

To learn more about our guest, click here:https://hellohotflash.com/episodes/brain-health-Rhonda-Voskuhl-UCLA

You finally get the doctor’s appointment. You’ve waited weeks. You’ve rehearsed your symptoms. You walk in determined to speak up—and then something shifts. The room feels cold. The appointment feels rushed. And suddenly, the woman who leads, manages, and carries so much… goes quiet.

In this episode, we talk honestly about that hesitation—and why it’s so common during menopause. Hormonal symptoms are often minimized, misunderstood, or brushed aside, leaving women doubting their bodies, their instincts, and even their faith.

Using Esther 4:16 as our spiritual anchor, this conversation reframes health advocacy as an act of stewardship, not self-centeredness. Esther didn’t speak up because it was comfortable—she spoke up because she was called. And the same is true for women navigating menopause today.

We explore how silence, self-minimizing, and “just dealing with it” quietly erode health, confidence, and capacity. And we unpack why advocating for your care—asking questions, seeking clarity, requesting support—is not a lack of faith, but a faithful response to the responsibility God entrusted to you.

This episode is a reminder that you were not called to endure unnecessary suffering. You were called to pursue wisdom, healing, and support—with courage, clarity, and holy boldness.

• Why menopause symptoms are often minimized—and how that leads women to silence themselves
• Why speaking up about your health is not arrogance, weakness, or lack of faith
• How preparation, prayer, and support strengthen confidence in medical settings
• A mindset shift that replaces self-doubt with discernment and spiritual authority

This is a solo episode with Stephanie Shaw, host of the Hello, Hot Flash podcast, where science-backed menopause education meets faith-filled encouragement.

Join Us For - Menopause Isn’t Just Hormonal – A Faith-and-Science Path to Healing in Midlife. This is a live workshop created for women who feel overwhelmed, foggy, or disconnected in midlife and want clarity without fear. You’ll learn what’s really happening in your body, why symptoms aren’t “just hormones,” and how faith, science, and practical next steps work together to restore steadiness and confidence. This workshop is educational, grounding, and designed to help you feel informed, supported, and back in control. Learn more at https://hellohotflash.com/workshop

In this conversation, Stephanie Shaw sits down with Matt Jones, registered nutritionist and sports nutrition expert at Reverse Health, to unpack why midlife health plans often stop working—and what actually supports women during menopause. From changes in estrogen and gut health to muscle loss and metabolism, this episode reframes menopause as a season that calls for personalization, not punishment.

Matt shares how inclusive nutrition, strength-focused fitness, sleep hygiene, and community support can help women rebuild trust with their bodies and create sustainable wellness plans that work with their hormones instead of against them.

If you feel overwhelmed, confused by conflicting advice, or stuck in an all-or-nothing mindset around food and exercise, this episode offers clarity, science-backed reassurance, and practical next steps—without shame.

• Why hormonal shifts during menopause change how your body processes food, stores fat, and manages energy
• How gut microbiome changes and declining estrogen can impact weight, mood, and overall health
• Why strength training is essential for preserving muscle, metabolism, and bone density in midlife
• How personalized nutrition plans outperform restrictive diets during menopause
• The role of sleep and community support in creating lasting, confidence-building health changes

Matt Jones is a registered nutritionist and sports nutrition expert with over 15 years of applied experience across professional sport, military, and university settings. As the nutrition lead at Reverse Health, Matt designs evidence-based, sustainable nutrition strategies tailored specifically for women navigating menopause and midlife health changes.

To learn more about our guest, click here:
https://hellohotflash.com/episodes/reverse.health

Learn how to feel clear, steady, and in control again:
https://hellohotflash.com/assessments

Listen to the limited-series podcast Christian Women and Menopause, exploring what the Bible says about stress, anxiety, health, and confidence in midlife:
https://hellohotflash.com/christian-women-and-menopause

This episode is sponsored by Reverse Health.
Use promo code HOTFLASH for 10% off:
https://www.rgds43jd.com/G1S938/7XDN2/

In this solo episode, Stephanie reflects on a personal season of relentless activity and hormonal chaos, when even prayer felt rushed and unfocused. Through a simple but powerful moment of intentional stillness, she began to notice tension ease, thoughts slow, and a renewed awareness of God’s presence.

Grounded in Psalm 46:10, this episode explores stillness not as passivity, but as an active expression of trust. Stephanie unpacks how modern culture—and menopause itself—tempts women to equate motion with progress, while Scripture invites rest, surrender, and presence instead.

Drawing from biblical teaching and lived experience, this conversation reframes stillness as essential for spiritual clarity, nervous system regulation, and whole-person healing. It’s a reminder that God often works most powerfully in the quiet moments we’re tempted to skip.

• Why busyness is often mistaken for progress during perimenopause and menopause
• How hormonal changes can intensify stress, overwhelm, and mental fatigue
• What Psalm 46:10 reveals about stillness, trust, and God’s role in healing
• How constant motion can keep women disconnected from both their bodies and God
• Why stillness is a necessary practice for faith, health, and emotional resilience in midlife

Stephanie Shaw is the host of the Hello Hot Flash podcast, where she educates and empowers women navigating midlife and menopause through science-backed health conversations and faith-centered perspectives. She is also the creator of the limited-series podcast Christian Women and Menopause.

• Take a personalized health assessment:
  https://hellohotflash.com/assessments
• Listen to the limited-series podcast Christian Women and Menopause:

https://hellohotflash.com/christian-women-and-menopause

In this conversation, we explore migraines as more than isolated headaches. Hormonal fluctuations, stress overload, blood sugar swings, and even how your body processes food can all influence migraine patterns. When these systems are out of balance, migraines may be one of the body’s clearest warning signs.

Our guest, Diane Ducarme, blends Western neuroscience with Traditional Chinese Medicine to help women understand what migraines are communicating beneath the surface. Rather than silencing symptoms, this episode focuses on recognizing patterns, reducing hidden triggers, and restoring trust in your body’s signals—especially during the hormonal transitions of midlife.

If you’re eating “healthy,” feeling exhausted anyway, or frustrated that nothing seems to work anymore, this episode will help you stop blaming yourself and start understanding what your body actually needs.

• How perimenopause and menopause-related hormonal shifts can alter migraine frequency and severity
• Why migraines often involve the nervous system, liver function, and whole-body stress—not just the head
• The difference between fast and slow migraine triggers, including food-related triggers that are commonly misunderstood
• How depletion, stress, and imbalance may show up as migraines long before lab work flags a problem
• Ways to work with your body’s signals instead of fighting them during midlife

About Our Guest:
Diane Ducarme is the host of the Migraine Heroes podcast and founder of the Migraine Heroes app. She integrates Traditional Chinese Medicine with Western science to help people uncover root causes of migraines often missed by conventional care.
To learn more about our guest, click here:
https://hellohotflash.com/episodes/menopause-migraine

• Learn how to feel clear, steady, and in control again:
  https://hellohotflash.com/assessments
• Listen to the limited-series podcast Christian Women and Menopause: https://hellohotflash.com/christian-women-and-menopause

This episode is sponsored by Reverse Health. Use promo code HOTFLASH for 10% off:
https://www.rgds43jd.com/G1S938/7XDN2/

What You Will Learn

1. How hormone fluctuations during perimenopause and menopause affect your emotional brain and can trigger impulsive speech (the “amygdala hijack”).

2. Practical strategies to pause, breathe, and filter your words through Scripture, reducing conflict and increasing calm.

3. How small, intentional practices—like prayer, mindful breathing, and writing thoughts before speaking—can transform daily interactions and strengthen relationships.

Additional Resources

• Learn how to feel clear, steady, and in control again. https://hellohotflash.com/assessments
• The limited-series podcast Christian Women and Menopause teaches what the Bible says about stress, anxiety, health, and confidence in midlife. Listen here: https://hellohotflash.com/christian-women-and-menopause

What if this year isn’t about tighter boxes—but deeper alignment?

It’s New Year’s Day. A blank calendar. A clean slate.

And for many women in midlife, a quiet question underneath all the goal-setting:

What’s next for me?

If you’re navigating perimenopause or post-menopause, you may be balancing changes in energy, weight, mood, and motivation—while also sensing something deeper is shifting.

Here’s what I know to be true:

Midlife isn’t healed by choosing either health or faith—you need both.

Nutrition, movement, and routines matter. You can take HRT, do breathwork, eat organic, track macros—and still feel lost. A meal plan, a morning routine, or a supplement protocol cannot fill a spiritual void. That’s why even the most disciplined women still feel empty.

Your symptoms aren’t just hormonal.
They’re often signals—calling you into a deeper season.
And most menopause programs miss this entirely.

January resolutions often fail not because women lack discipline—but because they demand perfection and rigidity in a season that requires wisdom and flexibility.

Midlife bodies change.

Midlife priorities shift.

Midlife faith deepens.

Planning matters—but putting yourself in a box doesn’t. When resolutions become rules instead of rhythms, they disconnect us from both our bodies and God’s guidance.

This season isn’t about fixing yourself.
It’s about listening, responding, and growing—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

This year, Hello, Hot Flash is taking a more holistic approach—connecting midlife health and faith.

Starting this month:

• Tuesdays will focus on how faith intersects with menopause and midlife health
  (grounded, practical, and real—not heavy or preachy)
  
  
• Thursdays remain unchanged, featuring doctors, scientists, and coaches sharing evidence-based strategies for midlife women
  
  

We’ll explore:

• Why faith matters when your body feels unfamiliar
  
  
• How spiritual alignment affects energy, stress, and decision-making
  
  
• Where science and faith support—rather than compete with—each other
  
  

This year, my personal resolution is bigger than a program or challenge.
I’m building a community of women asking what’s next in menopause—and in life.

It’s called The Change.

Over the course of a year, we’ll walk together through:

• Eating in ways that support midlife hormones
  
  
• Moving our bodies with intention—not punishment
  
  
• Strengthening our relationship with Christ as our bodies and roles evolve
  
  

This isn’t about perfection.
It’s about integration.
Health and faith. Body and spirit. Planning—with room for God to lead.

Midlife transformation doesn’t happen in isolation.
It happens in community.

Additional Resources:

• Check out Reverse Health. Use promo code HOTFLASH for a 10% discount. https://www.rgds43jd.com/G1S938/7XDN2/
• Learn how to feel clear, steady, and in control again. https://hellohotflash.com/assessments
• The limited-series podcast Christian Women and Menopause teaches what the Bible says about stress, anxiety, health, and confidence in midlife. Listen here: https://hellohotflash.com/christian-women-and-menopause
• Learn more at hellohotflash.com/the-change or under the Community tab.

Starting in Q1, we’re adding new Tuesday solo episodes—short, powerful teachings focused on what the Bible has to say to women in midlife.

Then on Thursdays, we’ll continue bringing you conversations with amazing doctors, medical professionals, and coaches from around the world.

In early 2026, you’ll hear from people like:

• Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl, physician, research scientist, and professor at UCLA’s David Geffen School of Medicine, and a leader in brain and women’s health research.
• Meghan Rabbitt, the journalist Maria Shriver personally tapped to write The New Rules of Menopause.
• Matt Jones, who—along with a team of doctors and healthcare specialists—built a company dedicated to supporting midlife women because his mom needed this kind of care.
• And Dr. Victoria Maizes, a pioneer of integrative medicine and founding executive director of the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine, sharing the extraordinary “rapid recovery reflex,” your body’s innate ability to rebalance and heal.

And if during the holiday season you’re looking for extra encouragement or spiritual support, be sure to listen to the limited-series Christian Women and Menopause, available anywhere you get your podcasts.

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year… and as always—here’s to your health.

In this episode, you will learn:

• How processed sugar can intensify hot flashes and why stabilizing blood sugar is essential during perimenopause
• What estrogen patches can do for symptoms like panic attacks, night sweats, and mood swings
• How lifestyle choices—movement, nutrition, nervous-system support, and symptom tracking—can reduce overwhelm
• Why individualized care matters and how to advocate for what your body needs
• The power of sharing your story and building community during midlife changes

To learn more about our guest, Lynn Smargis, visit https://hellohotflash.com/episodes/perimenopause-pain .

• Feeling bloated, foggy, or frustrated with “doing everything right” but still feeling off? Take the Perimenopause & Hormone Insight Assessment:
  https://hellohotflash.com/assessments
• If your body feels unpredictable and your faith feels stretched thin, explore the limited-series podcast Christian Women and Menopause for biblical truth, practical strategies, and gentle encouragement:
  https://hellohotflash.com/christian-women-and-menopause

Because of you—your listening, your sharing, your reviews—this show has crossed more than 41,000 downloads and ranks in the top 3% of all podcasts. That is incredible, and it is absolutely because of this community. I’m so grateful you’re here.

As we wrap up the year, I want to wish you a very Merry Christmas and a peaceful, joy-filled holiday season. I hope you find time to rest, to nourish yourself, to laugh with friends, hug on your family, or maybe slip away for some much-needed alone time. However you spend these days, I hope they bring you comfort and renewal.

And as we head into 2026, I’m excited to share that we’re expanding.
Starting in Q1, we’re adding new Tuesday solo episodes—short, powerful teachings focused on what the Bible has to say to women in midlife. Then on Thursdays, we’ll continue bringing you midlife-health related conversations with amazing doctors, medical professionals, and coaches from around the world.

In early 2026, you’ll hear from people like:

• Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl, physician, research scientist, and professor at UCLA’s David Geffen School of Medicine, and a leader in brain and women’s health research.
• Meghan Rabbitt, the journalist Maria Shriver personally tapped to write The New Rules of Menopause.
• Matt Jones, who—along with a team of doctors and healthcare specialists—built a company dedicated to supporting midlife women because his mom needed this kind of care.
• And Dr. Victoria Maizes, a pioneer of integrative medicine and founding executive director of the Andrew Weil Center for Integrative Medicine, sharing the extraordinary “rapid recovery reflex,” your body’s innate ability to rebalance and heal.

And if during the holiday season you’re looking for extra encouragement or spiritual support, be sure to listen to the limited-series Christian Women and Menopause, available anywhere you get your podcasts.

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year… and as always—here’s to your health.

Additional Information:

• Reverse Health - check on the app here: https://www.rgds43jd.com/G1S938/7XDN2/ and get a 10% discount with the code HOTFLASH
• Limited-Series Christian Women & Menopause can be found here: https://hellohotflash.com/free 
• 2026 Episodes I mentioned can be found, in 2026, on Https://HelloHotFlash.com/Episodes

What You Will Learn:
• How the Fasting Mimicking Diet works and how it differs from traditional fasting
• Why FMDs protect muscle while promoting fat loss, especially for women 40+
• Research on FMDs for metabolism, insulin resistance, inflammation, and longevity
• How often to use FMDs for optimal hormonal and metabolic benefits
• Why autophagy supports cellular repair, brain health, and healthy aging

Additional Resources:

• Christian Women & Menopause Limited Series: https://hellohotflash.com/christian-women-and-menopause
  • Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/HelloHotFlash

Instead of pushing through or relying only on logic, Lori encourages women to listen to their intuition and use human design as a tool for making more authentic life and work choices. If you’ve ever wondered why traditional advice doesn’t feel right for you, this episode will help you see midlife as a powerful new beginning.

What You’ll Learn:

1. Why midlife symptoms like fatigue and brain fog may be connected to energy drains.
   
   
2. How human design helps you reconnect with your intuition and make authentic decisions.
   
   
3. Why viewing midlife transitions as opportunities, not endings, changes everything.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why managing stress is essential for hormone balance in perimenopause and menopause
  
  
• How bioidentical hormone therapy can safely support mood, energy, and vitality
  
  
• The surprising connection between adrenal health, stress, and hormone production
  
  
• Why open conversations about menopause matter—and how they can change your relationships
  
  
• How Kate’s journey from science teacher to entrepreneur empowers women to take charge of their well-being
  
  

Kate shares practical strategies for supporting your body through hormone shifts and how business and science can work together to help women thrive in midlife.

• Take the Hormone Harmony Assessment and learn how to beat fatigue, mood swings, and stubborn weight → https://LOScheduling.As.Me/hormone-harmony-assessment
• Dive into our faith-based limited series: Christian Women & Menopause → https://hellohotflash.com/christian-women-and-menopause
• Support the show: buymeacoffee.com/HelloHotFlash

What You’ll Learn:

1. Why bladder leaks aren’t “just aging.”
   
   
2. How pelvic floor therapy can help men and women.
   
   
3. Hormone options for genitourinary symptom relief.

Additional Resources:

• Free Hormone Harmony Assessment
• American Urological Association Releases New Guideline on Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause - https://www.auanet.org/about-us/media-center/press-center/american-urological-association-releases-new-guideline-on-genitourinary-syndrome-of-menopause
• Mark Cuban's Insurance Company (this is not an endorcement): https://www.costplusdrugs.com/
• Bristol Stool Chart - https://med.stanford.edu/pediatricsurgery/Conditions/BowelManagement/bristol-stool-form-scale.html

What You’ll Learn:

1. How morning protein can reduce brain fog and boost focus.
   
   
2. Why influence, not control, is the key to managing menopause symptoms.
   
   
3. Practical communication tools to build authentic connections during midlife.

Additional Resources:

• Christian Women & Menopause Podcast

Things We Mentioned In The Interview:

• "The Mind to Lead: Coaching for Calm, Confident Power."
• Taro Iwamoto - https://www.youtube.com/c/TaroIwamoto
• Byron Katie - The Work - https://thework.com/
• Peace Talk Radio - https://www.peacetalksradio.com/episode/finding-peace-in-the-waves-of-perimenopausal-anxiety

What You’ll Learn:

1. Why tailoring menopause treatment improves outcomes and confidence
   
   
2. How telehealth platforms like Winona expand access to quality care
   
   
3. What changes in FDA guidance could mean for your hormone therapy options

Additional Resources:

• Looking to grow your business through speaking? Explore 900+ engagements here: https://www.hellohotflash.com/speaking-engagement-finder
• https://ravoke.com/four-days-life-health-journey/
• https://www.fda.gov/patients/fda-expert-panels/fda-expert-panel-menopause-and-hormone-replacement-therapy-women-07172025

What You’ll Learn:

1. The link between estrogen and insulin sensitivity.
   
   
2. How personalized fasting supports metabolic health.
   
   
3. Why CGM is a game-changer for midlife women.
   
   

About Our Guest:

https://hellohotflash.com/episodes/weight-loss-and-cgm-for-menopause

Additional Resources:

• Looking for a community of like-minded women navigating menopause?  Join our community The Change - https://hellohotflash.com/the-change 
• Ready to launch your podcast: https://hellohotflash.com/podcast-production
  
• Grow your business through speaking: https://www.hellohotflash.com/speaking-engagement-finder

If you have hot flashes during a presentation. Sleepless nights before big days. That mid-afternoon fog that won’t lift no matter how much coffee you drink. These aren’t random — they’re signals your body is changing. 

What You’ll Learn:

1. How understanding your body’s signals can reduce fear and uncertainty
   
   
2. Why small lifestyle changes like hydration and movement lead to lasting health improvements
   
   
3. The mindset shifts that turn menopause into an opportunity for growth.

Additional Resources:

• Looking for a community of like-minded women navigating menopause?  Join our community The Change - https://hellohotflash.com/the-change 
• Ready to launch your podcast: https://hellohotflash.com/podcast-production
• Looking for speaking opportunities? Check out this free webinar. https://www.hellohotflash.com/sef-webinar-landing-page

Why do sugar cravings, weight gain, and fatigue hit so hard in midlife? In this episode of Hello Hot Flash, Stephanie Shaw talks with nurse and functional nutrition counselor Katie Kirklin about how gut health and blood sugar balance impact hormones in perimenopause and menopause.

What You’ll Learn:

1. The role of the estrobolome in estrogen regulation.
   
   
2. How blood sugar swings affect cravings and energy.
   
   
3. Functional nutrition steps for lasting wellness.
   
   

About Our Guest: https://hellohotflash.com/episodes/bristol-stool-chart-estrogen-dominance-menopause

Additional Resources:

• Looking for a community of like-minded women navigating menopause?  Join our community The Change - https://hellohotflash.com/the-change 
• Podcast Production: https://hellohotflash.com/podcast-production
• Speaking Engagement Finder: https://www.hellohotflash.com/speaking-engagement-finder
• Ep 179 https://www.hellohotflash.com/episodes/how-to-get-to-the-root-cause-of-your-menopause-symptoms?rq=andrea
• Bristol Stool - https://med.stanford.edu/pediatricsurgery/Conditions/BowelManagement/bristol-stool-form-scale.html

What You’ll Learn:

1. The surprising prevalence of parasites in North America.
   
   
2. The connection between parasites, thyroid issues, and chronic fatigue.
   
   
3. Holistic and functional medicine strategies to address parasitic infections.
   
   

Additional Resources:
• Ready to launch your podcast: https://hellohotflash.com/podcast-production
• Looking to grow your business through speaking: https://www.hellohotflash.com/speaking-engagement-finder

About Our Guest:

• https://hellohotflash.com/episodes/parasites-worsen-menopause-symptoms

Karolina shares how small changes — like questioning a weekend ritual — can lead to huge gains in energy, mood, sleep, and self-confidence. If you’ve ever wondered whether alcohol is still serving you in this stage of life, this episode offers both science and practical encouragement.

In this episode of Hello Hot Flash, Stephanie Shaw sits down with Dr. Suzanne Steinbaum to talk about preventative cardiology, why symptoms look different in women, and how we can take charge of our health before it’s too late.

What You’ll Learn:

1. How to recognize heart disease symptoms that often go overlooked in women
   
   
2. Why menopause is a critical time to focus on heart health
   
   
3. Lifestyle strategies to lower your risk and strengthen your heart today
   
   

Additional Resources:

• Ready to launch your podcast: https://hellohotflash.com/podcast-production
  
  
• Looking to grow your business through speaking? Check out our list of 900+ speaking engagements - both podcasts and conferences covering a host of niches - health, wellness, business, entrepreneurship, real estate, Christianity, and more. https://www.hellohotflash.com/speaking-engagement-finder

What You’ll Learn:

1. Nutrient-dense foods that support cognitive health and reduce inflammation
   
   
2. How stabilizing blood sugar can prevent mood swings and mental haze
   
   
3. Holistic strategies for maintaining mental and hormonal balance
   
   

Additional Resources:

• Ready to launch your podcast: https://hellohotflash.com/podcast-production
• Looking to grow your business through speaking: https://www.hellohotflash.com/speaking-engagement-finder

You’ll Learn:

1. How estrogen impacts your nervous system, metabolism, and cognitive function in menopause
   
   
2. Why root-cause healing is more effective than chasing symptoms
   
   
3. Practical strategies for balancing stress, nourishing the microbiome, and finding joy

Additional Resources: 

• Ready to launch your podcast:  https://hellohotflash.com/podcast-production

• Looking to grow your business through speaking.  Check out our list of 900+ speaking engagements - both podcasts and conferences covering a host of niches - health, wellness, business, entrepreneurship, real estate, faith-based, and more.  https://www.hellohotflash.com/speaking-engagement-finder

What You’ll Learn:
• The difference between chronic stress and beneficial (“hormetic”) stress and why it matters in midlife
• How high-intensity exercise and mental challenges can activate cellular repair and enhance resilience
• Why self-expression is essential for reducing unhealthy stress and supporting long-term health

Additional Resources:
Ready to launch your podcast – https://hellohotflash.com/podcast-production
Grow your business through speaking: https://www.hellohotflash.com/speaking-engagement-finder

In this episode of Hello, Hot Flash, Stephanie is joined by April Haberman, CEO and co-founder of MiDOViA, to talk about why it’s time to shift the narrative from “menopause is a personal issue” to “menopause is a workplace reality.” April explains how even well-intentioned employers overlook this stage of life, and how that oversight creates economic consequences for both employees and organizations. She shares real-world examples — including CVS Health becoming the first U.S. company to earn Menopause-Friendly Accreditation — that illustrate what it looks like when an organization gets it right.

From establishing clear policies and accommodations to fostering a culture of open conversation, this episode explores practical ways companies can support midlife women and ensure they remain confident, productive, and empowered at work.

• How menopause symptoms can impact productivity, attendance, and leadership retention in the workplace

• Why forward-thinking organizations are investing in menopause policies and accreditation

• Practical strategies you can present to HR to create supportive environments

About Our Guest:

April Haberman is the Co-Founder and CEO of MiDOViA, a passionate advocate and expert in women’s wellness, specializing in menstrual health, menopause, and sexual reproductive health. With over a decade of experience in global women’s health, April has an extensive background in business development, nonprofit leadership, and social enterprise creation. She has worked extensively in Africa, spearheading initiatives in menstrual health and setting up social ventures that drive sustainable impact. Her expertise spans administration, public speaking, training and development, fundraising, event planning, and curriculum development. April is a member of the Women in Global Health Seattle Advisory Panel and a committee member of the ISO Technical Advisory Group. She also holds a Wellness Health Coaching certification from the Integrative Women's Health Institute.

Website: www.menopausefriendlyus.com

Website: www.midovia.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/mymidovia

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/mymidovia

• Ready to launch your podcast:  https://hellohotflash.com/podcast-production

• Looking to grow your business through speaking.  Check out our list of 900+ speaking engagements - both podcasts and conferences covering a host of niches - health, wellness, business, entrepreneurship, real estate, faith-based, and more.  https://www.hellohotflash.com/speaking-engagement-finder

You’ll learn:

• How cycle syncing can improve decision-making, productivity, and energy

• Why tracking patterns like sleep and temperature matters in midlife

• The surprising connection between hormonal shifts, anxiety, and depression

Whether your periods are regular, irregular, or gone altogether, this conversation offers a fresh approach to navigating midlife with more awareness, ease, and confidence.

About Our Guest: 

Laura Federico is a psychotherapist and AASECT-certified sex and relationship therapist in private practice. https://www.laurafedericotherapy.com/thecyclebook

Morgan Miller is a certified professional midwife, lactation consultant, activist, and birth center founder in private practice.

Additional Resources:

• The Cycle Book - https://www.laurafedericotherapy.com/thecyclebook
• Ready to launch your podcast:  https://hellohotflash.com/podcast-production
• Looking to grow your business through speaking.  Check out our list of 900+ speaking engagements - both podcasts and conferences covering a host of niches - health, wellness, business, entrepreneurship, real estate, Christianity, and more.  https://www.hellohotflash.com/speaking-engagement-finder

Dr. Taniqua Miller joins us to discuss the real barriers many women face in getting quality menopause care—especially women of color and those with disabilities—and how to advocate for yourself when you feel dismissed or unheard.

Whether you’re navigating perimenopause or well into postmenopause, this episode will help you:

• Recognize the signs of high-quality, patient-centered care
  
  
• Ask better questions during doctor visits
  
  

Build a menopause support plan that actually works for you

In this episode of Hello Hot Flash, former nun turned mindfulness coach Denise Pyles shares how just a few mindful minutes a day (we’re talking less than seven) can help you reset, feel grounded, and show up as your best self.

If you’re a midlife woman managing career, health shifts, family, and hormones — this episode is for you.

You’ll learn:
 

• How to build “micro-moments” of calm into a busy day
  
• Why ditching perfection gives you more peace
• The surprising link between stillness and resilience

About Our Guest:

With over 35,000 hours of mindfulness practice and background as a former nun, Denise brings depth and insight into the world of mindfulness. Specializing in creating practical micro-mindfulness

techniques, she serves as a guide for professionals in high-stress, high-performance fields like tech.

Denise has crafted a unique approach that blends deep-rooted mindfulness practices with real-world applicability, offering valuable tools for managing stress, improving productivity, and cultivating resilience amidst the pressures of fast-paced careers and life transitions.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisepyles/

Additional Resources:

• Ready to launch your podcast:  https://hellohotflash.com/podcast-production
• Looking to grow your business through speaking.  Check out our list of 900+ speaking engagements - both podcasts and conferences covering a host of niches - health, wellness, business, entrepreneurship, real estate, Christianity and more.  https://www.hellohotflash.com/speaking-engagement-finder

What You’ll Learn:

• Herbs that calm anxiety and support brain health
  
  
• The vital role of liver health in hormone balance
  
  
• How modern medicine is rooted in herbal practices

Please subscribe + leave a review to help more women find their way to wellness.

Rachelle Robinett, RH (AHG), is a writer, herbalist, educator, and life-long naturalist. She’s the founder of multidisciplinary companies dedicated to the art and science of natural wellness. Combining traditional medicine and current health insights with an understanding of individual behavior modification, Rachelle has provided accessible plant-based healing to countless people. She’s based in New York and Costa Rica.

Website: https://www.ursupernatural.com/

• Ready to launch your podcast:  https://hellohotflash.com/podcast-production
• Looking to grow your business through speaking.  Check out our list of 900+ speaking engagements - both podcasts and conferences covering a host of niches - health, wellness, business, entrepreneurship, real estate, Christianity and more.  https://www.hellohotflash.com/speaking-engagement-finder
• Rachelle's book: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/753977/naturally-by-rachelle-robinett-rh-ahg/

What You’ll Learn:

1. How to recognize early autoimmune symptoms
   
   
2. How hormones and stress influence autoimmune responses
   
   
3. Steps to advocate for your health and get real answers
   
   

Please subscribe + leave a review to help more women find their way to wellness.

Dr. Bonnie Feldman is an entrepreneur, health practitioner, researcher, financial analyst, digital health advisor, and autoimmune patient and advocate. Since 2010, Dr. Feldman’s mission has been to integrate digital tech, virtual-first care, and lifestyle interventions with conventional care to improve outcomes for autoimmune patients. She has spent the past decade raising awareness of the largely underserved and growing autoimmune market opportunity for private investment. Her decades of experience as an autoimmune patient – in addition to her 10 grandchildren at high genetic risk for autoimmune disease – has fueled Bonnie’s passion for prevention, earlier diagnosis and improved care for all autoimmune patients. 

Dr. Bonnie has built and managed two dental practices and served as an executive with early-stage biotech startups. She also boasts a rich financial background as a Wall Street equity research analyst, strategic advisor and investment consultant. 

Website:https://drbonnie360.com/

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@drbonnie360

• Ready to launch your podcast:  https://hellohotflash.com/podcast-production
  
  
• Looking to grow your business through speaking.  Check out our list of 900+ speaking engagements - both podcasts and conferences covering a host of niches - health, wellness, business, entrepreneurship, real estate, Christianity and more.  https://www.hellohotflash.com/speaking-engagement-finder

As hormones shift during midlife, everything from your energy levels to your digestion can start to feel… different. What worked for your body five or ten years ago may no longer serve you now. That’s why understanding your nutritional needs in this new season of life is key—not just for weight or appearance, but for your overall health, strength, and vitality.

Together, they dive into:

• Why protein is essential—not just for muscle maintenance, but for hormone production, stable moods, and bone health
• How plant-based diets can fully support your nutritional needs—and how to combine foods to ensure you're getting complete proteins
•  The Power Plate Formula—a simple, visual approach to meal planning that helps you support brain, heart, and hormonal health with every bite

If you're tired of feeling fatigued, moody, or unsure of how to fuel your body now that you're in your 40s or 50s, this episode offers science-backed tips and realistic strategies that meet you where you are.

1. How to access accurate, empowering menopause education (and why that matters)
   
2. The mindset shift that helps midlife women unlock personal growth and energy
3. Why menopause isn’t a reason to quit your job—but a reason to redefine your role

 As a nutritionist and women’s health coach, Annie founded VEEV Health & Wellness to support the needs of smart and successful women at midlife, giving them the confidence to do what they want to do, with the energy that they need. An endurance athlete with 12 marathons and 3 Ironman® triathlons under her belt, Annie lives what she preaches.

A prior 25+ year career as a brand consultant working with executives of Fortune 500 companies gave her a solid background to serve the wellness needs of those living busy lives.

She is a regular speaker to the media, corporations, and lifestyle organizations on various topics of health.

https://www.instagram.com/veev_wellness/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/anniegaudreault/ 

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChLyipMEhgM47vMouyKjN3A

https://www.pinterest.ca/anniegaudreaultveev/

https://www.facebook.com/home.php

https://veev.ca/

• Ready to launch your podcast:  https://hellohotflash.com/podcast-production

• Listen to the Limited Series - Christian Women And Menopause: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/christian-women-and-menopause/id1742579345

In this episode, I’m sharing my personal journey with menopause and the lessons I’ve learned along the way—especially when it comes to mental health. For too long, I thought what I was feeling was “just part of getting older” or that I simply needed to push through. I now know how important it is to recognize these symptoms for what they are, and to get real support—mentally, physically, and emotionally.

We’ll talk about why it’s essential to advocate for yourself with healthcare providers, explore holistic approaches that have helped me feel more grounded, and why celebrating small daily wins can make a big difference.

If you’re navigating perimenopause or menopause and wondering if what you’re feeling is normal—you’re not alone. Let’s talk about what it means to care for yourself in this season of life, with compassion and clarity.

Related Episodes

215 - Brain Fog Tackled In Under 10 Minutes https://hellohotflash.podbean.com/e/episode215/

• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I!  Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos.  

• Listen to my limited series podcast "Christian Women and Menopause" for Bible-based strategies on dealing with menopause symptoms like stress, anxiety, and depression.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why “all-or-nothing” thinking sets you up to fail
• How ditching entire food groups can sabotage your hormones
• The smarter way to plan meals (and still keep it spicy)

If you love the podcast, please leave us a review!  It helps more people find useful information for their challenging times: 

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/hello-hot-flash-conversations-about-menopause-womens/id1535385528

Here's How To Leave a Review:

For Apple Podcasts on an iPhone or iOS device:

• Open the Apple Podcast App on your device.
• Click on the “search” icon
• Type into the search bar “Hello Hot Flash” and click on the show
• Towards the bottom, look for “Ratings and Reviews.”
• Click on “Write a Review” and leave me your thoughts and comments!

Thank you

We explore how subconscious beliefs can quietly hold you back in your health, relationships, and especially your career—and how a mindset shift can be the key to thriving in midlife.

• How limiting beliefs silently sabotage your health and career

• The connection between mindset, menopause, and motivation

• A 5-step process to reprogram your thinking and reclaim your confidence

• Practical techniques like visualization, affirmations, and daily gratitude

• Why focusing on what you want to create is more powerful than what you want to fix

Leslie Gordon Christie is a mindset and personal development coach who helps professional women shift their thinking to step into their best selves. She is the creator of BUFFnation (Beautiful, Unique, Fearless, Females), an online community empowering women 40+ through personal development, fitness, and nutrition.

With over two decades of experience in health, wellness, and personal development, Leslie is a Certified Proctor Gallagher Consultant, Culinary Nutrition Specialist, and certified personal trainer. Her coaching dives deep into core beliefs, helping clients reframe perspectives, build resilience, and achieve personal and professional growth.

Before launching her business, Leslie was a CTV anchor and reporter, associate editor at *Oxygen* magazine, and a freelance health journalist. Originally from Providence, Rhode Island, she grew up in Thunder Bay, Ontario, and holds a degree from Carleton University. She lives in Conestogo, Ontario, with her husband, Kyle, their two sons, Carter and Allister, and their Labradoodle, Ace.

Website: https://www.wearebuffnation.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thebuffmom

• Ready to launch your podcast:  https://hellohotflash.com/podcast-production

• Listen to the Limited Series - Christian Women And Menopause: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/christian-women-and-menopause/id1742579345

Stephanie shares her personal hair loss journey and what helped her regrow confidence—and her hairline. You’ll learn the hormonal causes behind menopause-related hair loss, key nutritional gaps that may be contributing, and what labs to request to get real answers. If you're seeing more hair in your brush or noticing your parts are getting wider, this episode will help you understand the why and take next steps.

• Why hair loss is a health signal, not just a beauty issue

• How hormonal shifts—especially estrogen and testosterone—affect your hair

• Medical solutions 

• Holistic strategies

• What type of specialist to see first

• The three lab tests to request from your doctor

• A powerful question to ask if your hair loss is being dismissed

What You’ll Learn:

• The neuroscience of brain fog—and why it’s not “just stress.”
  
• How CBT techniques can rewire your brain and sharpen your thinking.
  
• Why nutrition is the missing link for many women struggling with concentration and clarity.

👉 Want help building a plan that's tailored to you?
Book your free Action Plan Call here: https://www.hellohotflash.com/actionplancall

In this empowering episode of the Hello Hot Flash Podcast, I talk with Karen Viesta, a certified health and lifestyle coach who helps women over 40 master their health, energy, and boundaries. Together, they explore how people-pleasing behaviors and poor boundaries silently erode your well-being—and what to do about it.

Karen shares why boundaries are not about control, but about self-respect and emotional protection—and how to communicate them clearly so they strengthen, rather than harm, your relationships.

What You’ll Learn:

1. Why people pleasing is often rooted in early conditioning—and how to start breaking free.
   
   
2. The key resources boundaries are meant to protect: your time, money, energy, and emotional health.
   
   
3. How to communicate boundaries and consequences without guilt, shame, or fear of rejection.

Additional Resources:

• Have a health chat with Stephanie:  /https://LOscheduling.as.me/action-plan-call
• Inquire about nutrition coaching here: https://LOscheduling.as.me/Wellness 
• Listen to the Limited Series - Christian Women And Menopause: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/christian-women-and-menopause/id1742579345
• Take the free Hot Flash Free challenge here: https://www.hellohotflash.com/scorecard 

About Our Guest

To learn more about our guest, head over to https://hellohotflash.com/episodes/stop-people-pleasing.

Results are not guaranteed. The interview is for entertainment purposes only.  Please see disclaimer for more details.

I explain what tests you can request from your doctor, how hormonal shifts impact your metabolism, and why strategies that used to work often stop working in midlife.

If you're feeling frustrated with stubborn weight gain, heavier breathing, or faster heart rates when exercising — you’re not alone. I share how better information, targeted testing, and the right support can help you take control again.

• Which medical tests you should ask your doctor for to get a clearer picture of your health
  
  
• How hormone changes, like lower estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, affect your ability to lose weight
  
  
• Why insulin resistance often develops in midlife and how it sabotages weight loss efforts
  
  
• Why old methods like extreme calorie cutting and aggressive exercise stop working
  
  
• How to work with your body — not against it — using a smarter, more supportive approach
  
  

👉 Want help building a plan that's tailored to you?
Book your free Action Plan Call here: https://www.hellohotflash.com/actionplancall

In today’s 10-Minute Menopause Moment on Hello Hot Flash, we're busting one of the biggest myths around menopause — that it automatically means the end of your sex life. 

Spoiler alert: it doesn’t! 

In this episode, I share medical and holistic solutions to help support libido during midlife, who to talk to, and exactly what to ask for at your next doctor’s appointment.

Whether you're curious about testosterone therapy, natural options like maca root, or just want to feel empowered at your next check-up, this quick episode gives you the facts you need to start important conversations and take back control of your health.

What You'll Learn:

• The role of testosterone therapy in boosting libido after menopause — and important pros and cons to know
• A natural alternative (maca root) that may help support sexual health and energy
• The specific test to ask for at your next doctor’s visit if you're concerned about low libido

If you’re tired of unexplained weight gain, energy crashes, or intense sugar cravings during perimenopause and menopause, this episode is for you!

• The hidden ways sugar wreaks havoc on your body during perimenopause and menopause.

• Two actionable solutions: a medical option (CGM - Continuous Glucose Monitor) and a holistic dietary approach to stabilize blood sugar.

• Which tests to request and which medical experts to see if you're struggling with blood sugar issues during menopause.

• Have a health chat with Stephanie:  https://www.hellohotflash.com/actionplancall

• Inquire about nutrition coaching: https://www.hellohotflash.com/discoverycall

• Listen to the Limited Series - Christian Women And Menopause: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/christian-women-and-menopause/id1742579345

• Take the free Hot Flash Free challenge here: https://www.hellohotflash.com/scorecard

Whether you're struggling with fatigue, brain fog, or feeling dismissed by providers, this episode offers hope and insight into root causes and solutions.

1. Why long Covid and chronic fatigue syndrome often overlap—and what your inflammation levels might be trying to tell you
   
   
2. How reactivated viruses like Epstein-Barr could be contributing to fatigue, brain fog, and immune dysfunction
   
   
3. Holistic tools (and medical ones) to support healing—including how to choose the right probiotics and test for lingering spike proteins
   
   

(00:01:19) What post-viral fatigue really is—and why it’s often misunderstood
(00:05:53) How latent viruses like Epstein-Barr reactivate and cause respiratory and immune dysfunction
(00:13:20) What a holistic approach to long Covid recovery looks like
(00:15:30) Why inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction are central to persistent symptoms
(00:18:04) How viral fragments continue to dysregulate your immune system
(00:26:33) How to tailor probiotics to your unique gut health
(00:29:27) The link between chronic inflammation and long Covid symptoms
(00:33:05) Why emotional healing is key to gut and immune health
(00:44:33) The role of pharmacists and integrative providers in long Covid recovery

Find out more about our guest here.  

In this episode of Hello Hot Flash, Dr. Kelly Baron—Doctor of Chiropractics and co-founder of Tempesta—shares her holistic, no-nonsense approach to supporting your body during perimenopause and menopause. From macronutrients and minerals to strength training and hydration, Dr. Baron breaks down the simple shifts that can have a big impact. Whether you're just starting to feel the changes or deep in the transition, this episode offers real-life, sustainable tips to help you feel stronger, more energized, and more in control.

What you’ll learn:

• The three essential minerals every woman in midlife should prioritize—and how to get them
  
  
• How to shop for food that supports hormone health (without overhauling your life)
  
  
• Why hydration matters more now than ever before
  
  
• The role of strength training in protecting your bones and boosting long-term energy
  
  

Timestamp:

[00:01:32] What Nutrients Does a Menopausal Woman Really Need?
Dr. Baron explains the key macronutrients and how they support energy, mood, and hormones during midlife.

[00:04:14] Are You Low on These Minerals? Most Women Over 40 Are
A deep dive into mineral deficiencies—like magnesium and zinc—and how they can make menopause symptoms worse.

[00:11:15] The Grocery Store Trick That Supports Hormone Health
Why shopping the perimeter of the store is a game-changer, and what to look for when meal planning.

[00:14:19] What Sugary Drinks Are Doing to Your Midlife Body
How sugary beverages impact blood sugar, energy, and even your sleep—and what to sip instead.

[00:25:44] The Nutrients Your Body’s Begging For in Midlife
Learn how small dietary tweaks can restore energy, clarity, and resilience during menopause.

[00:32:32] Strength Training Isn’t Optional—Here’s Why
Dr. Baron shares why building muscle is critical for women over 40, and how to start safely.

[00:36:01] Protect Your Core, Protect Your Future
Why core strength matters for long-term mobility and independence—and how to build it at home.

🔗 Links + Resources:
→ Join the 14-Day Eat Right for Your Hormones Program → Learn more about Dr. Baron and Tempesta at mytempesta.com

If you’re in your 40s or 50s and feeling like your body has suddenly become a stranger—aching joints, stubborn weight, brain fog, and energy dips you can’t explain—you’re not alone. In this episode, Dr. Marianne Pinkston, a powerhouse in integrative and family medicine, joins us to break down the hidden connection between inflammation and menopause—and what you can do about it.

As a woman who personally battles rheumatoid arthritis and treats women just like you every day, Dr. Pinkston gets it. She believes women deserve better answers, deeper understanding, and a toolkit that actually works.

Whether you're curious about natural ways to reduce inflammation, frustrated with your doctor’s lack of answers, or simply want to feel like yourself again—this episode is for you.

What You’ll Learn:

1. Why not all inflammation is bad—and how to work with it, not against it

2. The subtle signs of chronic inflammation women often miss

3. How movement (even gentle!) helps repair inflammation and eases menopause symptoms

4. Why your mind, body, and spirit are all part of the healing equation

5. How to build a sustainable, anti-inflammatory lifestyle rooted in self-respect and care

Timestamps:

(00:00:19) – What is inflammation and why it matters in menopause

(00:05:10) – Signs of chronic inflammation in women over 40

(00:17:39) – Dr. Marianne Pinkston’s personal story: Reversing arthritis with exercise

(00:20:19) – Best types of exercise for inflammation and joint pain relief

(00:30:00) – What is holistic health? Understanding the mind-body connection

(00:30:50) – Why women in menopause need a holistic approach to self-care

Hello, Hot Flash Show Notes:

If you’re in your 40s or 50s and feeling like your body has suddenly become a stranger—aching joints, stubborn weight, brain fog, and energy dips you can’t explain—you’re not alone. In this episode, Dr. Marianne Pinkston, a powerhouse in integrative and family medicine, joins us to break down the hidden connection between inflammation and menopause—and what you can do about it.

As a woman who personally battles rheumatoid arthritis and treats women just like you every day, Dr. Pinkston gets it. She believes women deserve better answers, deeper understanding, and a toolkit that actually works.

Whether you're curious about natural ways to reduce inflammation, frustrated with your doctor’s lack of answers, or simply want to feel like yourself again—this episode is for you.

What You’ll Learn:

1. Why not all inflammation is bad—and how to work with it, not against it

2. The subtle signs of chronic inflammation women often miss

3. How movement (even gentle!) helps repair inflammation and eases menopause symptoms

4. Why your mind, body, and spirit are all part of the healing equation

5. How to build a sustainable, anti-inflammatory lifestyle rooted in self-respect and care

Timestamps:

(00:00:19) – What is inflammation and why it matters in menopause

(00:05:10) – Signs of chronic inflammation in women over 40

(00:17:39) – Dr. Marianne Pinkston’s personal story: Reversing arthritis with exercise

(00:20:19) – Best types of exercise for inflammation and joint pain relief

(00:30:00) – What is holistic health? Understanding the mind-body connection

(00:30:50) – Why women in menopause need a holistic approach to self-care

Could your dental fillings be the hidden culprit behind your menopause symptoms? Mercury toxicity from dental amalgam is a little-known health risk that could be impacting hormone balance, energy levels, and autoimmune conditions. In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Sharon Dickerson, a trauma-informed dentist with 25+ years of experience, breaks down the shocking connection between oral health and menopause.

Timestamp

⏳ (00:08:10) How Your Oral Microbiome Impacts Your Overall Health

⏳ (00:11:39) Mercury Fillings & Menopause: The Silent Link

⏳ (00:16:26) How Mercury Fillings Disrupt Your Hormones

⏳ (00:18:07) How to Reduce the Health Risks of Mercury Fillings
 

⏳ (00:21:53) The Shocking Truth About Mercury in Dental Amalgam

⏳ (00:29:13) Trauma-Informed Dentistry: Empowering Patients Through Better Care

💡 Your Oral Health Affects Your Whole Body
Chronic inflammation, autoimmune issues, and hormone imbalances can all be triggered by poor dental health and mercury exposure.

💡 Mercury Toxicity Can Worsen Menopause Symptoms
Heavy metal exposure can disrupt thyroid function, adrenal health, and estrogen balance, leading to brain fog, fatigue, and joint pain.

💡 Safe Removal of Mercury Fillings is Essential
If you’re considering removing mercury fillings, choose a biological dentist trained in safe removal protocols to avoid further toxicity.

About Our Guest

To learn more about our guest click here.

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Stephanie and Hello Hot Flash.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move toward the life they deserve. 

Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

Suzanne Casamento, an expert in sound and Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) Therapy offers a fresh perspective on the impact of modern technology on our natural frequencies. She dives into how electromagnetic fields from sources like cell towers and Wi-Fi can disrupt our cellular functions, potentially leading to health issues. Suzanne draws from her health struggles and shares how she found relief in PEMF therapy, particularly with devices like the Amp Coil, to restore cellular harmony and eliminate negative energy.

In this episode, Suzanne highlights the importance of reconnecting with the earth’s natural frequencies through grounding practices and PEMF technology. Her holistic approach emphasizes boosting overall well-being, fostering self-love, and maintaining a balanced relationship with technology. Whether you’re dealing with the effects of EMF exposure or simply looking to optimize your health, Suzanne’s insights provide valuable guidance for living in harmony with both technology and nature.

What You’ll Learn:

1. How electromagnetic fields (EMFs) from modern technology disrupt cellular functions and affect health
2. The benefits of PEMF therapy and devices like the Amp Coil for restoring cellular balance
3. Practical grounding techniques to protect against EMF exposure and enhance well-being
4. The healing power of nature’s elements and how reconnecting with Earth’s natural frequencies can support health

Timestamps:

00:00:42) What is Natural Frequency Restoration Therapy and How Does it Work?
(00:04:48) How Do High EMF Levels Disrupt Our Cells and Health?
(00:15:27) How Can PEMF Technology Help Optimize Body Frequencies and Heal?
(00:20:39) Grounding Techniques for EMF Protection and Better Health
(00:24:14) Do EMF-Blocking Shungite Pyramids Actually Help with Well-Being?
(00:32:54) The Healing Power of Nature’s Elements and Reconnecting with Earth’s Frequencies

To learn more about Suzanne Casamento's work and resources, click here.

Additional Resources:

• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I!  Subscribe to my YouTube page to see the videos.   https://youtube.com/@hellohotflashpodcast
• Join the Waitlist to find out about our Christian Women's Retreat  HERE.

In this episode, we explore Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM), a condition that affects many women during menopause. GSM encompasses a range of symptoms, including vaginal dryness, urinary tract infections, and vaginal infections, often resulting from hormonal changes, particularly the drop in estrogen. We delve into the causes of GSM, its impact on a woman’s well-being, and the various treatment options available to alleviate the symptoms, improve sexual health, and enhance overall quality of life.

Key Takeaways:

• Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) is Common but Often Underdiagnosed: Many women experience symptoms like vaginal dryness, urinary tract infections, and vaginal infections during menopause due to hormonal changes. These symptoms result from decreased estrogen, which affects vaginal tissue and pH balance, making women more susceptible to infections.

• Testosterone Can Be Effective for Low Libido but Faces Barriers: Testosterone therapy has proven benefits for improving sexual health and libido in women, but there is no FDA-approved testosterone treatment specifically for women. This leaves many women relying on compounded versions, which can be difficult to access, expensive, or carry risks if not properly dosed.

• Personalized Menopause Care and Communication are Crucial: Open, effective communication between women and healthcare providers is key to addressing menopause symptoms. Women are encouraged to advocate for themselves and explore personalized treatment plans that can improve their quality of life during this transition.
  
  

  •  

Timeline:

(00:03:04) Empowering Patients through Personalized Menopause Care Communication:

• The importance of open communication between healthcare providers and patients, leading to better treatment decisions.

(00:15:18) Menopause Care: Misdiagnosis and Knowledge Gaps:

• How lack of awareness and underdiagnosis can affect the treatment of menopausal symptoms.

(00:18:47) Genital Urinary Syndrome of Menopause Treatment:

• A deep dive into GSM, its causes, and treatment options for vaginal dryness, urinary issues, and sexual pain.

(00:21:33) Neurochemistry-Focused Solutions in Women's Sexual Health:

• Exploring the role of neurochemistry in sexual health, including hormonal treatments like testosterone.

(00:26:37) Combatting Perimenopausal Health Challenges with Prevention:

• Prevention strategies for managing health issues during perimenopause and menopause.

About Our Guest: Find out more about Dr. Javaid here.

Additional Resources:

• Feeling overwhelmed by life, work, family…menopause? It’s time to pause, breathe, and focus on YOU. Planted and Restored is a 3-day Christian retreat designed to help you reset your approach to self-care, giving you the space to reflect on how to prioritize your health and well-being. Through guided sessions on nutrition, prayer, and reflection, you’ll gain clarity on how to integrate healthier habits into your everyday life without compromising your responsibilities.  Join the waitlist today: hellohotflash.com/retreat
• Check out my limited series podcast "Christian Women and Menopause" for Bible-based strategies on dealing with menopause symptoms like stress, anxiety, and depression.

Results are not guaranteed. The interview is for entertainment purposes only.  Please see disclaimer for more details.

Midlife transitions, whether in the workplace or personal life, can bring unexpected challenges—especially when menopause enters the mix. Hot flashes, brain fog, fatigue, and mood swings aren’t just nuisances; they’re signals from your body. But what if you could support your body naturally and ease these symptoms?

In this episode of Hello Hot Flash, we explore how adaptogens and herbal remedies can help regulate hormones, reduce stress, and support overall well-being during menopause. Our guest, Vanessa Nixon, a traditional naturopath and author, shares powerful insights into using natural remedies like ashwagandha, reishi mushrooms, and holy basil to bring balance to your body.

1️⃣ Your Body’s Signals Matter – Listening to what your body is telling you can help pinpoint the root cause of menopausal symptoms.

2️⃣ Adaptogens Can Balance Your Hormones – Herbs like ashwagandha, reishi, and holy basil help regulate cortisol, estrogen, and progesterone.

3️⃣ Liver Health is Key – Supporting your liver with herbs like dandelion and burdock can improve hormone detoxification and reduce hot flashes.

Timestamps:

⏳ (00:09:56) What is the Best Adaptogen for Hot Flashes?
Find out how ashwagandha helps regulate body temperature and soothe hot flashes naturally.

⏳ (00:12:50) How Can Herbs Support Hormone Detoxification?
Learn how liver-supporting herbs like dandelion and burdock help remove excess estrogen and balance hormones.

⏳ (00:17:48) Can Adaptogens Help with Menopause Weight Gain?
Explore how adaptogens support metabolism, balance insulin, and reduce menopause-related weight gain.

⏳ (00:26:59) Which Mushroom Helps Reduce Cortisol and Improve Sleep?
Find out how reishi mushrooms regulate cortisol levels and promote restful sleep during menopause.

⏳ (00:34:17) What Are the Best Herbal Remedies for Menopause Mood Swings? Learn how holy basil and other adaptogens reduce anxiety, improve mood, and enhance overall well-being.

⏳ (00:42:57) How Can Ancestral Herbal Wisdom Support Menopause?
Discover how traditional herbal medicine and intuitive health practices can empower you during menopause.

About Our Guest

To learn more about our guest click here.

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Stephanie and Hello Hot Flash.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me to help more people — just like you — move toward the life they deserve. 

Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

Additional Resources:

• Feeling overwhelmed by life, work, family…menopause? It’s time to pause, breathe, and focus on YOU. Planted and Restored is a 3-day Christian retreat designed to help you reset your approach to self-care, giving you the space to reflect on how to prioritize your health and well-being. Through guided sessions on nutrition, prayer, and reflection, you’ll gain clarity on how to integrate healthier habits into your everyday life without compromising your responsibilities.  Join the waitlist today: hellohotflash.com/retreat
• Check out my limited series podcast "Christian Women and Menopause" for Bible-based strategies on dealing with menopause symptoms like stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I!  Subscribe to my YouTube page to see the videos. https://youtube.com/@hellohotflashpodcast

In this episode, Dr. Shoreh Ershadi, an expert in anti-aging medicine with over 30 years of experience, shares powerful insights into how you can age gracefully, maintain your youthful glow, and live a long, fulfilling life. Dr. Ershadi is a certified doctor with the American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine and specializes in using the latest scientific advancements to help women thrive as they age. From reducing inflammation to harnessing plant-based nutraceuticals, Dr. Ershadi’s approach to healthy aging is grounded in practical solutions that promote long-term wellness.

Timestamps

⏳ [00:01:14] How to Renew Your Cells for Vitality and Anti-Aging
Discover the secret to defying aging norms and living a life full of energy, mental sharpness, and youthful vigor. Dr. Ershadi explains how cell renewal can help you maintain your youthful glow for years to come.

⏳ [00:13:40] Using Plant-Based Nutraceuticals to Enhance Apoptosis and Slow Aging
Learn how incorporating plant-based nutraceuticals can promote apoptosis (the body’s natural process of cell turnover) and keep you feeling energized while fighting off the signs of aging.

⏳ [00:17:06] How Nutraceuticals Support Cellular Longevity for Better Aging
Dr. Ershadi dives into the science behind nutraceuticals and how they support your cells for long-term health. These supplements can slow down the aging process and help you maintain vitality as you age.

⏳ [00:22:47] Managing Inflammation to Maximize Your Anti-Aging

Benefits
Inflammation is a key player in the aging process. Dr. Ershadi discusses practical ways to manage inflammation through diet, lifestyle, and supplementation, promoting youthful bones, skin, and hair.

⏳ [00:26:28] Nutraceuticals for a Youthful, Healthy Aging Journey
Learn about the best nutraceuticals you can add to your routine to support healthy aging and improve your overall quality of life as you age.

⏳ [00:28:09] Redefining Youth: Active Aging for Longevity
Age is just a number! Dr. Ershadi explains how staying active—both physically and mentally—can keep you feeling youthful and vibrant, helping you to live longer, healthier, and happier.

Key Takeaways

• Inflammation management is crucial for maintaining a youthful appearance and preventing disease.
• Plant-based nutraceuticals can support cellular health and longevity, keeping you active and healthy as you age.
• Healthy aging isn’t just about looking young; it’s about feeling energetic, vibrant, and mentally sharp at any age.

Stay Connected!
Subscribe to our podcast and follow us on YouTube for more insights on aging gracefully and living your best life during menopause and beyond.

Don't forget to share this episode with a friend who could benefit from these anti-aging tips!

Our Guest
To learn more about Dr. Shoreh Ershadi and her work, click here.

In this episode of Hello Hot Flash, host Stephanie Shaw sits down with Joyce Shulman, a professional coach and connection expert, to talk about why building relationships is key to happiness, success, and even longevity. If you’ve ever felt lonely or unsure about how to strengthen your friendships (or make new ones), this episode is packed with practical advice to help.

Joyce shares her "Ten Touch Strategy", a simple way to maintain and deepen your connections—whether in business, friendship, or everyday life. Plus, she opens up about why stepping outside your comfort zone is the secret to meaningful relationships.

Timestamp

💬 [00:04:27] How to Make New Friends After 40 (and Keep Them for Life)

💡 [00:11:04] The Best Way to Build Genuine Connections (Even If You're Shy)

📩 [00:19:16] A Simple Weekly Habit to Strengthen Friendships & Business Relationships

🏡 [00:25:27] How to Find Your Tribe in Midlife (and Why You Need One)

🚀 [00:28:19] Overcoming Social Anxiety: How to Reach Out and Make Meaningful Connections

💖 [00:34:04] Why Strong Relationships Improve Health, Happiness, and Success

🎯 [00:40:12] The One Mindset Shift That Can Change Your Relationships Forever

What’s You’ll Learn

• Taking the First Step Changes Everything
• How to Make Deep Connections And Why They Matter
• The Link Between Strong Relationships And Your Health

About Our Guest

To learn more about our guest click here.

Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts

“I love Stephanie and Hello Hot Flash.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move toward the life they deserve. 

Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding a bunch of bonus episodes to the feed and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!

Additional Resources:

• Feeling overwhelmed by life, work, family…menopause? It’s time to pause, breathe, and focus on YOU. Planted and Restored is a 3-day Christian retreat designed to help you reset your approach to self-care, giving you the space to reflect on how to prioritize your health and well-being. Through guided sessions on nutrition, prayer, and reflection, you’ll gain clarity on how to integrate healthier habits into your everyday life without compromising your responsibilities.  Join the waitlist today: hellohotflash.com/retreat
• Check out my limited series podcast "Christian Women and Menopause" for Bible-based strategies on dealing with menopause symptoms like stress, anxiety, and depression.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I!  Subscribe to my YouTube page to see the videos. https://youtube.com/@hellohotflashpodcast

Results are not guaranteed. The interview is for entertainment purposes only.  Please see disclaimer for more details.

In this episode of Hello Hot Flash, host Stephanie Shaw sits down with Dr. Teryn Clarke, a neurologist specializing in cognitive health, to break down the overlap between menopause symptoms and early dementia signs.

We expect changes in memory and focus during perimenopause—after all, shifting estrogen levels can affect cognitive function. 

But if you find yourself:

✅ Struggling more with multitasking than usual
✅ Forgetting important appointments or deadlines
✅ Feeling mentally drained even after a full night’s sleep

…it might be time to take a closer look.

Dr. Clarke explains that dementia and menopause symptoms can mimic each other—but the difference is persistence and progression. If cognitive struggles feel like they’re getting worse instead of improving, it’s time to explore deeper brain health strategies.

The good news? Nearly 50% of dementia cases are preventable. Dr. Clarke shares the powerful lifestyle changes that can protect brain health and help us stay sharp as we age.

[00:01:14] –  Dementia vs. Alzheimer’s: What’s the Difference?
[00:08:22] – Why Menopause Brain Fog & Dementia Can Look Alike
[00:14:40] – When Multitasking Struggles Could Be a Warning Sign
[00:19:28] – How Sugar & Insulin Resistance Impact Memory
[00:22:19] – Signs Your Parents May Need a Cognitive Health Check
[00:27:38] – The Role Lifestyle Has in Preventing Cognitive Decline
[00:32:08] – Steps You Can Take Today to Protect Your Brain

Don't ignore the signs—whether in yourself or your loved ones. Knowledge is power, and early action can make all the difference.

About Our Guest:

Dr. Teryn Clarke is a neurologist who practices in Orange County California.  Her clinic focuses on cognitive health and she was named "Dementia Care Specialist of the Year" by the Alzheimer's Foundation of America in 2015.  She wants everyone to know that they have more control over whether or not they get Alzheimer's than they might think.  She recently published her first book, Brain Health Action Plan.  In it, she translates the latest research in brain science into a step-by-step guide to help people get their brains as far away from Alzheimer's as possible. 

https://youtube.com/clarkeneurology9425

https://instagram.com/brainhealthactionplan

Additional Resources:

• Feeling overwhelmed by life, work, family…menopause? It’s time to pause, breathe, and focus on YOU. Planted and Restored is a 3-day Christian retreat designed to help you reset your approach to self-care, giving you the space to reflect on how to prioritize your health and well-being. Through guided sessions on nutrition, prayer, and reflection, you’ll gain clarity on how to integrate healthier habits into your everyday life without compromising your responsibilities.  Join the waitlist today: hellohotflash.com/retreat
• Check out my limited series podcast "Christian Women and Menopause" for Bible-based strategies on dealing with menopause symptoms like stress, anxiety, and depression.

📌 Episode Highlights:

• HRT Deep Dive with Dr. Mindy Goldman (Ep. 126)
• Testosterone & Menopause (Ep. 142)
• Sugar’s Impact on Hormones (Ep. 140)
• Sleep Strategies for Menopause (Ep. 112)

But that’s not all! I’m thrilled to announce a Fall 2025 Christian retreat—a 3-day immersive experience focused on healing, restoration, and community.

✨ A private chef preparing whole food meals
✨ Rest, reflection, and guided journaling
✨ Worship and Biblical insights on health & wellness

Only 20 spots available! Be the first to know—join the waitlist: hellohotflash.com/retreat

🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend!

#HelloHotFlash #MidlifeWellness #MenopauseSupport #200Episodes

⏱ [00:03:15] - Jenn Pike explains the lymphatic system’s role in detox and hormonal balance
⏱ [00:10:45] - How stress and lifestyle affect your lymphatic health
⏱ [00:18:20] - Top daily habits to support your lymphatic system naturally
⏱ [00:25:30] - Jen’s expert tips for midlife women looking to optimize their wellness

Learn more about Jenn Pike by visiting Hello, Hot Flash.

Additional Resources:

• For curated products and services tailored to midlife women, visit our shop here.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I!  Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos. 
• Listen to my limited series podcast "Christian Women and Menopause" for Bible-based strategies on dealing with menopause symptoms like stress, anxiety, and depression.

In this episode of the Hello Hot Flash podcast, I welcome Dr. Lara Briden—naturopathic doctor, women’s health expert, and author of Period Repair Manual—to break down the phases of the menstrual cycle and how they impact mood, energy, and overall well-being.

Many women don’t realize just how much their cycle influences everything from productivity to emotional resilience. Dr. Briden explains why understanding your body's natural rhythms—what she calls body literacy—is one of the most empowering tools for navigating both your cycle and the transition into perimenopause.

💡 How to Work with Your Cycle, Not Against It – Learn how hormonal fluctuations affect mood and energy and how to use these changes to your advantage in work and life.

⚠️ Recognizing Perimenopausal Symptoms Early – Dr. Briden outlines nine key symptoms—including cycle irregularities, breast pain, sleep disturbances, and increased migraines—so you can spot the signs before they disrupt your life.

🥑 Natural Remedies for Hormonal Balance – From zinc supplementation to nutrient-dense diets, discover science-backed strategies to support your body without relying solely on medication.

🎙️ A Quote to Remember: "Understanding the menstrual cycle and knowing if and when you ovulate is called body literacy, which is a lovely term." – Dr. Lara Briden

If you’ve ever felt frustrated by hormonal changes or wondered if there’s a better way to navigate perimenopause, this episode is for you. Join us as we break the stigma, empower women with knowledge, and give you practical steps to support your health naturally.

🎧 Listen now and take control of your hormonal health!

To learn more about Dr. Lara’s work and resources, click here.

Timestamp

⏳ (00:00:56) – How to Navigate Menstrual Health with Confidence – A look into Lara Briden’s book as an accessible guide for understanding your cycle.

⏳ (00:04:29) – Can Your Menstrual Cycle Be a Tool for Empowerment? – How to work with hormonal shifts instead of against them.

⏳ (00:11:43) – What Do Estrogen Fluctuations Mean for Your Body? – Breaking down common symptoms of perimenopause and what they signal.

⏳ (00:14:31) – How Do Hormones Change During Perimenopause? – Understanding the key hormonal fluctuations and how they impact mood, energy, and overall well-being.

⏳ (00:22:50) – What Natural Remedies Actually Work for Menstrual Symptoms? – Science-backed solutions for relief without relying solely on medication.

⏳ (00:25:34) – How Does Diet Influence Hormonal Balance? – The role of nutrition in supporting menstrual and perimenopausal health.

⏳ (00:35:13) – Why Is Self-Care Essential for Inner Peace? – Practical strategies for reducing stress and supporting long-term well-being.

Additional Resources

• Here’s a link to Dr. Laren Briden’s books 
• For curated products and services tailored to midlife women, visit our shop here.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I!  Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos. 
• Listen to my limited series podcast "Christian Women and Menopause" for Bible-based strategies on dealing with menopause symptoms like stress, anxiety, and depression.

Our guest, Carin Luna-Ostaseski, shares her personal experiences and expert insights on managing emotional well-being during these transitions. We explore practical strategies for improving sleep quality, fostering emotional awareness, and using conflict resolution techniques to navigate hormonal shifts together.

✅ How perimenopause and puberty mirror each other hormonally
✅ The impact of sleep quality on emotional well-being and mood stability
✅ Why hormonal fluctuations can heighten conflict and emotional intensity
✅ Actionable strategies for managing stress, communication, and self-awareness
✅ The importance of normalizing conversations around hormonal health in families

To learn more about Carin Luna-Ostaseski work and resources click here.

“I love Stephanie and the information she shares on Hello Hot Flash.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move toward the healthy lifestyle they deserve. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. Occasionally I’ll add bonus episodes and if you don’t follow you may miss out. Follow now!

Additional Resources

• https://hotorjustme.com/discount/HELLOHOTFLASH
• For curated products and services tailored to midlife women, visit our shop here.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I!  Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos.  

Listen to my limited series podcast "Christian Women and Menopause" for Bible-based strategies on dealing with menopause symptoms like stress, anxiety, and depression.

Dr. Phyllis Pobee, a triple board-certified genetic weight loss physician and CEO of GeneLean360, is transforming the way we approach weight loss by leveraging the power of our DNA. She believes that understanding your genetic makeup is the key to creating a personalized, sustainable plan—one that works with your body, not against it. In her upcoming book, Dr. Pobee breaks down how genes like APOE4 and FTO influence weight, offering tailored strategies for nutrition, exercise, and stress management. Her approach helps women reach their goals without deprivation or dangerous medications, making lasting success finally feel achievable.

Timestamps

🔹 (00:01:35) How Can Your Genetic Blueprint Help with Weight Loss?

🔹 (00:03:22) What Are the Best Personalized Weight Loss Strategies Based on Genetics?

🔹 (00:06:32) How Does Genetic Testing Create a Personalized Health Plan?

🔹 (00:07:54) What Genetic Factors Influence Weight Loss and Health Optimization?

🔹 (00:09:32) Can Your DNA Help You Lose Weight? Here's What Science Says

🔹 (00:26:42) How to Achieve Sustainable Weight Loss with Genetic Testing

🔹 (00:37:09) What Is a Genetic-Based Weight Loss Program and How Does It Work?

About My Guest

To learn more about Dr. Phyllis’s work and resources, click here.

“I love Stephanie and the information she shares on Hello Hot Flash.” <– If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — move toward the healthy lifestyle they deserve. Click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. Occasionally I’ll add bonus episodes and if you don’t follow you may miss out. Follow now!

Additional Resources

• Help us make a difference in women’s healthcare.  Take a few minutes and complete this survey.   https://hellohotflash.com/survey
• Hello Hot Flash YouTube

Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional and do not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information on this website and in this podcast are for informational purposes only. You should consult your physician or other qualified healthcare provider before starting any new health regimen.

Are you concerned with the way your perimenopausal or post-menopausal symptoms are impacting you at work?  If so, or if you foresee a concern, check out my recent interview

Emily Gold Waldman, Bridget Crawford, and Naomi Cahn are three legal experts who have been diving deep into the issue of menopause discrimination in the workplace through their extensive research and advocacy efforts. Waldman, in her role as the Associate Dean at Pace University, sheds light on the interconnected nature of menopause, sex, and age discrimination, pushing for cultural and legal reforms similar to those in the UK to create more inclusive environments. Crawford, a distinguished professor also at Pace University, views menopause discrimination as a form of sex discrimination and emphasizes the need for broader legal protections and cultural shifts to support menopausal individuals. Naomi Cahn, a professor at UVA Law School, points out the lack of federal protection against menopause discrimination and champions the importance of open, stigma-free discussions, suggesting informal resolutions and the adoption of universal design principles in workplaces to accommodate all affected individuals.

Timstamp

(00:03:24) Menopause Discrimination and Workplace Accommodations

(00:09:14) "Workplace Challenges: Menopause Accommodation Rights"

(00:18:44) Promoting Openness on Menopause in Workplaces

(00:28:10) Menopause Industry: Balancing Privacy and Protection

(00:30:09) Inclusive Workplace Policies for Menopause Symptoms

(00:33:13) Menopause Policies Shaping UK Workplace Culture

(00:37:07) Menopause's Intersection with Discrimination and Well-being

About The Guests

Emily Gold Waldman is the Associate Dean for Faculty Development and a Professor of Law at the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University. Bridget J. Crawford is a University Distinguished Professor at the Elisabeth Haub School of Law at Pace University. She is the co-author, with Emily Gold Waldman, of Menstruation Matters (2022), among other publications. Naomi R. Cahn is the Justice Anthony M. Kennedy Distinguished Professor of Law and Nancy L. Buc '69 Research Professor in Democracy and Equity at the University of Virginia School of Law. She is the author of numerous books, including most recently, Fair Shake (2024).

Additional Resources

• Listen to my limited series podcast "Christian Women and Menopause" for Bible-based strategies on dealing with menopause symptoms like stress, anxiety, and depression.

Silvia Covelli and Dr. Achina Stein are big proponents of taking a holistic approach to understanding and treating depression by getting to the root causes. Covelli, drawing from her personal journey and research, stresses the importance of making lifestyle changes like nutrition, sleep, and exercise to tackle depression head-on. Dr. Stein, with her wealth of experience in functional medicine and psychiatry, zeroes in on the physical aspects of depression, urging a closer look at lifestyle, diet, and stress as potential triggers. Together, they shake up the traditional view of depression as just a chemical imbalance, pushing for a well-rounded strategy that considers biological, psychological, and social factors for long-lasting mental well-being.

Timestamps: 

(00:05:35) Holistic Approach: Lifestyle and Dietary Changes

(00:11:25) Holistic Approach to Treating Depression

(00:12:15) Holistic Healing for Mental Well-Being

(00:12:50) Metabolic Psychiatry for Mental Health Transformation

(00:18:33) Holistic Approach to Treating Chronic Depression

(00:30:55) Tailored Health Plans for Root Cause Analysis

(00:45:43) The Power of Self-Belief and Persistence

About The Guest:

Click here to find out more about my guest.

Additional Resources:

• Upcoming Healing Depression Project  Program - https://www.healingdepressionproject.com/
• For curated products and services tailored to midlife women, visit our shop here.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I!  Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos.  
• Listen to my limited series podcast "Christian Women and Menopause" for Bible-based strategies on dealing with menopause symptoms like stress, anxiety, and depression.

Today's Episode Sponsored By:

• Midi Health - Expert, personalized virtual care

   

  One-size-fits-all doesn't work for midlife care. Discover science-backed treatments tailored to your specific concerns.

Dr. Ting Wu, the founder of NYC Acupuncture Wellness, is a leading advocate for the integration of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in menopause management. She emphasizes the importance of supporting women through various stages of menopause, allowing them to share their wisdom and continue to thrive within their communities. Dr. Wu's approach focuses on treating the root causes of menopause symptoms through lifestyle changes and herbal remedies, such as black cohosh and white ginseng, while highlighting the necessity of professional guidance to ensure safety and efficacy. By contrasting TCM with Western medicine, she underscores a holistic perspective that values the natural transitions of life, providing not only relief but also comfort and joy during menopause.

(00:03:31) Balancing Women's Health in Traditional Chinese Medicine

(00:11:27) Harmonizing Yin and Yang for Health

(00:14:14) Cooling Herbal Remedies for Menopause Hot Flashes

(00:17:52) Balanced Herbal Formulas for Menopausal Symptoms

(00:19:56) Holistic Relief: Acupuncture for Menopausal Symptoms

(00:20:52) Holistic Acupuncture for Wellness and Empowerment

(00:37:01) Holistic Health Empowerment Through Education and Practice

(00:40:04) Embracing "Yang Sen" for Optimal Well-being

About The Guest:

Ting Wu, established Founder and CEO of NYC Acupuncture Wellness, is an influential practitioner with over eight years of experience and a track record of helping over 1000 patients discover pain-free living. Specializing in an eclectic mix of East Asian Medicine and modern acupuncture, Ting has become the go-to expert for individuals, ranging from seasoned athletes to enthusiastic sports hobbyists grappling with persistent, debilitating pain that obstructs their daily activities. Ting's hallmark is her ability to concoct unique, fusion treatment plans that swiftly alleviate her patients' discomfort and fortify them against future pain, freeing them to enjoy the vibrant, active lifestyle they cherish.

https://www.youtube.com/@nycacuwell 

https://www.instagram.com/nycacuwell/

Additional Resources:

• For curated products and services tailored to midlife women, visit our shop here.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I!  Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos. 
• Listen to my limited series podcast "Christian Women and Menopause" for Bible-based strategies on dealing with menopause symptoms like stress, anxiety, and depression.

Andrea explores the importance of educating women and doctors about these symptoms to ensure better diagnosis and treatment. The conversation also covers lifestyle adjustments, the importance of whole foods, and the validity of supplements in alleviating menopausal symptoms. 

During the conversation, Andrea emphasizes the need for women to advocate for their health and provides practical tips for preparing for doctor visits.

TIMESTAMP

00:00 Welcome and Introduction

00:19 Meet Andrea Donsky: Menopause Advocate

00:38 The Importance of Menopause Research

01:24 Uncovering Menopausal Symptoms

04:39 Phantom Smells and Other Surprising Symptoms

07:19 Common Menopausal Symptoms

09:43 Navigating Medical Support

11:56 The Emotional Impact of Menopause

17:37 Hope for the Future: Changing Perceptions About Menopausal Women

19:41 Normalizing the Menopause Conversation

22:18 Personal Experiences with Perimenopause

22:41 Lifestyle Adjustments for Menopausal Relief

25:18 The Importance of Nutrition and Supplements During Menopause

26:57 Empowering Women with Menopause Research and Data

29:34 Challenges in Medical Consultations

36:01 The Role of Supplements and Lifestyle Changes for Mid-Aged Women

37:45 Empowerment and Confidence in Your 50s

40:06 Facing Misogyny in Business

43:14 How Mid-Aged Woman Can Connect with the Community 

43:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

About The Guest

Find out more about Andrea Donsky by visiting Hello Hot Flash.

Additional Resources

• • Like to watch your podcast episodes? Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos.
  • Listen to my limited series podcast "Christian Women and Menopause" for Bible-based strategies on dealing with menopause symptoms like stress, anxiety, and depression.   

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the information surrounding hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and wondering if it could help with midlife weight gain? In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Liz Lyster, an OB-GYN and hormone specialist, about everything you need to know regarding HRT.

Dr. Lyster will explain how HRT has evolved, address common myths, and explain how it can be a valuable tool for women experiencing stubborn weight changes during menopause. She doesn’t stop at the science; she also emphasizes the practical aspect, discussing how lifestyle changes can enhance the effectiveness of HRT, along with the latest research on the safe duration of its use.

Whether you're curious about the types of hormones your body may need or how HRT relates to managing your long-term health, this episode aims to provide answers to your questions.

Timestamps

(00:01:31) A History of HRT and Current Evidence 

(00:07:11) How Long is HRT Safe to Use? 

(00:13:10) HRT and Weight Gain: What’s the Link? 

(00:15:11) The Impact of Exercise on Menopausal Health

(00:21:57) Timing in Intermittent Fasting

(00:27:12) Role of Protein in Diet

(00:31:42) Gut Health, Thyroid, and Their Role in Weight

About The Guest

Find out more about Dr. Liz by visiting Hello Hot Flash.

Additional Resources

• Help us make a difference in women’s healthcare. Take a few minutes and complete this survey.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos. 

Tune in to learn if GLP-1 drugs could fit your health goals—or if a few diet and lifestyle tweaks are all you need.

About The Guest

Find out more about Dr. Dominika Hertsberg by visiting Hello Hot Flash.

Additional Resources

• Help us make a difference in women’s healthcare. Take a few minutes and complete this survey.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos. 

Reading food labels is one of the best ways to make healthier choices, especially during menopause. With all the claims like “natural,” “organic,” and “low sugar,” it’s hard to know what’s really in the products we buy. 

In today’s episode, Coach Charlie Jordan Brookins helps us decode food labels. She explains confusing terms like “natural flavors,” why omega-3 oils are essential, and how to choose the right fats for our health. 

About The Guest

Find out more about Coach Charlie by visiting Hello Hot Flash.

Additional Resources

• Join the Proverbs 31 Push-Up Challenge with Coach Charlie for a stronger, shapelier you in just 31 days! Sign up at http://www.proverbs31strong.com.
• Explore how outdated laws and harmful farming impact your health. Visit https://www.ewg.org/ for insights from the Environmental Working Group! 
• Help us make a difference in women’s healthcare. Take a few minutes and complete this survey.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos. 

About The Guest

Find out more about Dr. Sarah by visiting Hello Hot Flash.

Additional Resources

• Help us make a difference in women’s healthcare. Take a few minutes and complete this survey.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos. 

Have you noticed unexpected shifts in your mood or anxiety levels lately? Menopause could be the reason behind it. In this episode, Dr. Allie Sharma, a seasoned psychiatrist, joins us to explain the often-overlooked connection between menopause and mental health.

Dr. Allie explores why hormonal changes—like drops in estrogen and progesterone—can bring on symptoms like anxiety, irritability, and even brain fog. 

She shares her expert insights on recognizing these signs, navigating treatment options, and advocating for the support you need from healthcare providers. Plus, we discuss how to talk with family members about these changes so they can better understand and support you through this life stage.

About The Guest

Find out more about Dr. Allie by visiting Hello Hot Flash.

Additional Resources

• Help us make a difference in women’s healthcare. Take a few minutes and complete this survey
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos. 

Did you know that chronic stress can increase cravings and even lead to weight gain by disrupting your body's hormone balance? 

In today’s episode, Dr. Priyanka Venugopal, OB-GYN, turned stress and health coach, shares how stress influences our brain's reward system, sparking cravings and emotional eating, and she explains down why common habits—like reaching for snacks after a long day—are often driven by more than just hunger.

Dr. Priyanka explains how understanding our "stress types" (fight, flight, freeze, and fawn) can help us rewire our responses and take control of our choices. Get ready to discover practical ways to interrupt these patterns and achieve a healthier mind-body balance.

(00:01:35) The Food Industry's Role in Stress-Induced Weight Gain

(00:04:01) Can We Rewire Our Brains? The Power of Neuroplasticity

(00:07:06) Identifying Your Stress Triggers

(00:13:16) The Role of Cortisol in Weight Gain

(00:19:01) Holistic Weight Loss Approach: Science and Mindset

(00:23:18) Breaking the Blame Game Cycle: Accountability and Choice

About The Guest

Find out more about Dr. Priyanka by visiting Hello Hot Flash.

Additional Resources

• Help us make a difference in women’s healthcare. Take a few minutes and complete this survey.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos. 

In today’s episode, registered dietitian Dawn Palacios joins us to discuss practical ways to tackle midlife fatigue and regain lasting energy. Dawn shares her journey through burnout and how it transformed her approach to wellness. 

She shares her favorite strategies for boosting energy, starting with the basics: staying hydrated, swapping processed foods for nutrient-rich whole foods, and keeping your gut healthy.

Dawn explains how small dietary changes—like adding more fiber and avoiding inflammatory foods—can make a big difference in how energized you feel each day. She also discusses why it’s essential to listen to your body’s needs and shares her “test, don’t guess” approach to identifying what’s really going on beneath the surface. 

If you’re looking to break free from the cycle of midlife fatigue, this episode is packed with relatable insights and easy-to-implement tips.

Timestamps: 

00:00:57 How Dawn Advocated for Herself

00:02:47 What Nutrition Does for Menopause 

00:04:12 How to Beat Fatigue with Dietary Changes

00:06:03 The Importance of Gut Health

00:12:54 Common Nutrient Deficiencies 

00:19:37 Mindset & Self-Care in Midlife

About The Guest

Find out more about Dawn by visiting Hello Hot Flash.

Additional Resources

• Help us make a difference in women’s healthcare. Take a few minutes and complete this survey.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos.

Dr. Ernesto Medina joins us to talk about Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS), a condition caused by toxins like mold, and how it can mimic or worsen menopause symptoms. 

He explains why some of us are more sensitive to these toxins, how they trigger inflammation, and what practical steps you can take to identify and eliminate them. If you’ve tried everything and still feel like something’s missing, tune in to uncover what could be going on behind the scenes.

For mold testing, check out these tools: ERMI Testing and HERTSMI-2 Testing to identify potential issues in your home.

Timestamps: 

(00:00:02) How Toxins Affect Menopause

(00:01:04) What is Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (CIRS)?

(00:04:32) Hormonal Imbalances and Their Connection to CIRS

(00:07:35) How to Identify Mold Exposure

(00:12:44) Common Household Toxins Affecting Women's Health

(00:18:32) Steps for Mold Detection and Remediation

(00:23:32) New Insights in CIRS Research

About The Guest

Find out more about Dr. Ernesto by visiting Hello Hot Flash.

Additional Resources

• Help us make a difference in women’s healthcare. Take a few minutes and complete this survey.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos. 

Why do so many women experience brain fog and mood swings during menopause, and what can you do about it? 

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Cat Brown, a board-certified OB-GYN and Medical Director of Winona, to discuss the connection between menopause and cognitive changes like brain fog and mood swings. 

She explores the science behind how reduced estrogen levels can affect concentration, memory, and emotional regulation. Dr. Cat also shares insights on the importance of tailored hormone therapy, tips for tracking symptoms, and why staying informed is essential for advocating for your well-being. 

Timestamps: 

(00:04:59) Estrogen Loss Impact on the Brain

(00:10:38) Hormones' Effects on Brain Function

(00:16:21) Bioidentical Hormone Therapy (BHRT): What You Need to Know

(00:22:05) Addressing Gender Disparity in Women’s Health Care

(00:27:35) Key Takeaways for Navigating Menopause

About The Guest

Find out more about Dr. Cat by visiting Hello Hot Flash.

Additional Resources

• Help us make a difference in women’s healthcare. Take a few minutes and complete this survey.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos. 

Have you ever felt like something was off with your health but couldn’t quite put your finger on it? In this episode, Marci Nettles, a former law enforcement officer, faced that same struggle—until she discovered that her breast implants were the hidden cause behind her brain fog, chronic pain, and constant exhaustion.

Marci opens up about the toxic risks of both silicone and saline implants, sharing her journey of connecting the dots between her symptoms and her implants. She explains why self-advocacy and education are crucial and how you can confidently talk to doctors and find the right support when facing similar issues.

Through her story and practical advice, Marci encourages you to listen to your body, ask the tough questions, and prioritize your health above all else.

Timestamps: 

(00:02:32) Toxicity of Breast Implants

(00:05:27) How to Advocate for Yourself

(00:11:21) What Happened in Marci’s Journey 

(00:16:54) Signs of Breast Implant Illness

(00:22:10) What Changes to Expect After Removal

(00:27:31) Personal Stories of Illness

About The Guest

Find out more about Marci by visiting Hello Hot Flash.

Additional Resources

• Help us make a difference in women’s healthcare. Take a few minutes and complete this survey.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos.  

Deborah also explains why it’s important to adjust your workouts as you age and how to balance exercise with stress management—because life’s demands don’t slow down.

If you’re unsure what exercise fits you best or just need a little motivation, this episode is packed with practical tips to help you stay sharp, energized, and support your health long-term. Tune in!

Timestamps: 

(00:01:00) Common Exercise Mistakes & Brain Benefits

(00:03:00) Hormonal Changes & Fitness During Menopause

(00:08:00) Misconceptions About Exercise in Midlife

(00:12:30) Exercise for Long-Term Health

(00:16:46) Protein and Routine for Women Over 50

(00:28:53) What Movement Means for Blood Sugar

(00:33:57) How to Fit Exercise into a Busy Lifestyle

About The  Guest

Find out more about Debra by visiting Hello Hot Flash.

Additional Resources

• For curated products and services tailored to midlife women, visit our shop here.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I!  Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos. 
• Listen to my limited series podcast "Christian Women and Menopause" for Bible-based strategies on dealing with menopause symptoms like stress, anxiety, and depression.

In today’s episode, Dr. Anna Marie Frank addresses an important question for many women: How can you rewire your brain to enhance your mental and emotional well-being without turning to medication?

Dr. Frank shares her journey and offers practical tips for boosting brain health naturally. She discusses the role of nutrition—what to eat to support your mind and lift your mood—and how to shift negative thought patterns.

She also talks about the unique challenges women face, like hormonal changes and everyday stress, and provides easy techniques, such as acupressure, that you can use at home. Tune in for helpful insights and simple steps to feel more balanced and empowered on your mental wellness journey!

Timestamps: 

(00:04:55) How to Shift Your Mindset

(00:10:46) Top Brain Supplements to Choose 

(00:15:54) How Does Energy Healing Help

(00:20:54) What Nutrient Deficiencies Affect Brain Health 

(00:25:58) How to Listen to Your Body 

(00:30:44) How to Rewire Your Brain 

About The Guest

Find out more about Dr. Anna Marie by visiting Hello Hot Flash.

Additional Resources

• Help us make a difference in women’s healthcare. Take a few minutes and complete this survey.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos. 

You deserve to feel great, and Midi can help you get there. Schedule a virtual visit today to discuss your symptoms in depth with their experts. You’ll leave feeling heard and with a personalized plan to start feeling better. 

Visit JoinMidi.com and take the first step toward relief.

Show Notes

In today’s episode, I sit down with Andrea Nakayama, a functional medicine nutritionist and expert in systems biology, to explore the hidden factors behind chronic health issues, especially during perimenopause and menopause. What if the solution to your symptoms lies deeper than you think?

Andrea introduces us to the concept of "root causes," revealing how three critical factors—genetics, digestion, and inflammation—often underpin chronic conditions. Rather than merely treating symptoms, she emphasizes the importance of a personalized, holistic approach to truly address these underlying issues.

We also discuss the limitations of the conventional medical model, which often prioritizes quick fixes over understanding each woman's unique biochemistry and story. You’ll gain practical tips on how to become an empowered advocate for your own health, tuning into your body’s signals and making lifestyle changes that get to the heart of your symptoms.

Timestamps: 

(00:03:09) - What’s the Systems Biology Approach?

(00:05:37) - Ditching Quick Fixes for Real Solutions

(00:11:05) - Signs vs. Symptoms: What’s the Difference?

(00:16:50) - How Genes, Digestion, and Inflammation Matter

(00:22:33) - Three Simple Dietary Tips for Better Health

(00:27:36) - What You Need to Know About Healthcare Limits

To learn more about Andrea’s work and resources, click here.

Additional Resources

• Help us make a difference in women’s healthcare. Take a few minutes and complete this survey.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos. 

Are you that person who gets into bed, only to lie there for hours, just trying to fall asleep? In today’s episode, we’re keeping it real about the sleepless nights that come with perimenopause and menopause. 

I sit down with Dr. Candice Seti, a psychologist and sleep expert, to chat about why your hormones (think estrogen, progesterone, and cortisol) might be the reason you can’t fall or stay asleep.

Dr. Seti breaks down simple, practical tips to help you get the sleep you need—whether it's managing your mindset (no more stressing about sleepless nights!), making a few lifestyle tweaks, or figuring out the right bedtime routine for you. It’s all about finding what works, so you can wake up feeling more rested.

Timestamps: 

(00:02:36) - The Link Between Weight, Sleep, and Hormones

(00:06:04) - How Estrogen and Progesterone Impact Your Sleep

(00:11:39) - How Negative Thoughts Create Insomnia

(00:16:54) - Top Sleep Hygiene Practices and Treatment Options

(00:23:12) - Adjusting to New Sleep Patterns During Midlife

To learn more about Dr. Candice’s work and resources, click here.

Additional Resources

• Help us make a difference in women’s healthcare. Take a few minutes and complete this survey.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos. 

In today’s episode, I sit down with Dr. Lori Brotto, a professor and a women’s health researcher, to explore a question many women face: how does our sexual health change during perimenopause and menopause? 

She tackles common challenges during perimenopause, like mood swings, anxiety, and cognitive issues, and how they can affect sexual desire.

Dr. Brotto highlights the importance of having open conversations about sexual health with both healthcare providers and partners, offering tips to make these discussions easier. She dives into how trauma, self-esteem, and body image can play a role in sexual dysfunction, emphasizing the positive impact of therapy and mindfulness.

This episode aims to dispel myths surrounding aging and sexuality, empowering women to confidently advocate for their sexual health. Join us for a conversation that encourages women in midlife and beyond to embrace their sexuality!

Timestamps: 

(00:01:41) How do psychological challenges affect midlife sexual dysfunction

(00:06:40) Is self-esteem and body image impacting satisfaction

(00:10:24) How important is sexual communication with your partner

(00:13:16) Does professional help improve sexual dysfunction

(00:15:42) How does trauma impact sexual health

(00:18:16) What myths about aging and sexuality should you know

(00:22:14) How to cope with shame around sexual dysfunction

About The Guest

Find out more about Dr. Brotto by visiting Hello Hot Flash.

Today's episode is sponsored by Midi Health. The experts at Midi Health understand exactly what you’re going through because they specialize in menopause care. Their clinicians provide safe, effective, and FDA-approved solutions designed specifically for you. Plus, Midi care is covered by major insurance providers, so you don’t have to worry about hidden costs or membership fees. 

You deserve to feel great, and Midi can help you get there. Schedule a virtual visit today to discuss your symptoms in depth with their experts. You’ll leave feeling heard and with a personalized plan to start feeling better. 

Visit JoinMidi.com and take the first step toward relief.

In today’s episode, we’re diving into the future of healthcare with AI at the forefront. I sit down with Noosheen Hashemi, CEO and co-founder of January AI, to discuss how her company is leading the charge in revolutionizing metabolic health.

We explore January AI’s innovative glucose prediction app—the first AI-powered tool of its kind—and how it combines AI with multi-omics (genomics, microbiome, and wearable data) to help people manage and even prevent chronic conditions like diabetes and heart disease. 

Noosheen also shares how her journey inspired her mission to make preventative care accessible to all.

Join us on how AI can be your personalized health coach. Tune in and see January AI in action!

Timestamps: 

(00:00:00) How is AI Transforming Health Management?

(00:03:25) Impact of Multiomics on Health

(00:07:45) Types of Diabetes

(00:10:04) What to Know About Metabolic Syndrome?

(00:18:32) Benefits of a Personalized Health App

(00:23:33) How to Adjust Your Diet?

(00:31:11) Are Smart Devices Changing Health Data Collection?

Additional Resources

• Learn more about our guest by clicking here.
• Help us make a difference in women’s healthcare. Take a few minutes and complete this survey.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos. 

You deserve to feel great, and Midi can help you get there. Schedule a virtual visit today to discuss your symptoms in depth with their experts. You’ll leave feeling heard and with a personalized plan to start feeling better. 

Visit JoinMidi.com and take the first step toward relief.

Show Notes

Join me and our guest, Dr. Haley Parker, a licensed acupuncturist and herbalist, about how acupuncture can truly support women during menopause.

Dr. Haley shares her personal journey into integrative medicine and how acupuncture helped her overcome health challenges growing up.

She explains the science behind acupuncture and how it works to rebalance the body, emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach that includes diet, exercise, and stress management. Plus, Dr. Parker addresses common concerns many women have, like the fear of needles and potential side effects.

Whether you're currently navigating menopause or just curious about alternative options, this episode offers insights on using acupuncture as a safe and natural way to find relief and restore balance in your life.

Timestamps: 

(00:02:03) How Acupuncture Heals

(00:05:31) How to Cultivate Physical & Emotional Balance

(00:10:07) Proactive Health Tips

(00:15:15) How Acupuncture Supports Menopause Relief

(00:20:15) Understanding the Role of Liver Function

(00:30:20) The Calming Effects of Acupuncture

(00:36:04) Effective Herbal Remedies for Menopause

About The Guest

Haley is a State Board Licensed Acupuncturist and Herbalist in Virginia, Washington D.C., Maryland, New Jersey, and Georgia. She is a New Mexico State Board Doctor of Oriental Medicine, and a Diplomat in Oriental Medicine certified by the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM).

Her passion for teaching was ignited, and she joined the Virginia University of Integrative Medicine in 2021 to teach the practice management and clinical communications curriculum. She is currently serving as the Director of Clinical Operations for the University, overseeing the Virginia, New Jersey, and Georgia locations. She is working towards her Professional Doctorate degree, where she plans to continue to teach and transform the curriculum at the doctoral level for future advances in the medicine, along with her business and community outreach programs.

Haley also serves her profession. She is a Board member on the Acupuncture Society of Virginia lobbying for acupuncture advocacy, The NCCAOM Professional Ethics and Disciplinary Committee, and the Acupuncture Advisory Board for the Virginia Board of Medicine. Haley has worked to represent acupuncturists, as well as the community, in the healthcare system. She is passionate about our acupuncture movement across the legislative and integrative healthcare systems. She is inspired to become more informed and involved through her work with her colleagues in the State and wants to continue to encourage our professional networks and group representation across the state, nation, and even further.

Learn more about her work in the following channels:

• http://vuim.edu
• https://www.facebook.com/vuimedu
• https://www.facebook.com/HaleyParkerFIT
• https://www.instagram.com/dr.haley.vuim/
• https://www.instagram.com/vuimedu/
• http://www.linkedin.com/in/haley-parker-vuim

Show Notes

Menopause often brings along unexpected gut issues like bloating, constipation, and IBS, turning everyday comfort into a challenge. In today’s episode, we're diving into the powerful gut-brain connection and exploring how to restore your digestive health during this time.

Our guest, Dr. Tiffany Duffing, co-founder of GI Psychology, will break down how hormonal shifts, stress, and inflammation can disrupt your microbiome. She’ll share holistic strategies to soothe your symptoms, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, clinical hypnosis, and simple lifestyle changes.

Discover how to calm your gut, reduce bloating, and reclaim your digestive wellness—so you can enjoy your favorite foods and feel your best during menopause!

Timestamps: 

(00:03:11) Gut-brain connection explained

(00:06:10) Menopause impacts gut

(00:07:09) Stress, inflammation effects

(00:16:50) Therapy for hypersensitivity

(00:20:00) Benefits of clinical hypnosis

(00:25:48) Managing thoughts, emotions

About The Guest

Tiffany Duffing, PhD., is a licensed clinical psychologist, U.S. Army Veteran, and the co-founder of GI Psychology, a practice specializing in treating children, adolescents, and adults with various GI disorders. With a passion for serving her community, Dr. Duffing specializes in the integrative framework that pulls from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Clinical Hypnosis. She has successfully achieved therapeutic goals with children aged nine and above, adolescents, adults, and couples. Her areas of focus include gastrointestinal disorders, chronic pain, insomnia, and anxiety.

For Tiffany, empowering patients to create comfort is her biggest priority. Starting from the first intake session, Dr. Duffing focuses on listening actively and relaying what they have said to them to ensure complete understanding. In her career, Dr. Duffing has embraced the health psychology model, emphasizing the collaboration between psychologists, physicians, dietitians, and nurses to address the whole person. 

Dr. Duffing maintains active involvement in the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis (ASCH) and the Society for Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis (SCEH). She is also a volunteer Board member of the Association of Northern Virginia Clinical Psychologists (NVCP). In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Duffing serves as president of GI Psychology and ensures the practice's commitment to providing comprehensive mental health services for patients with complicated gastro-psychological conditions.

Learn more about her work in the following channels:

• http://gipsychology.com
• https://www.facebook.com/GIPsychology
• https://www.instagram.com/gipsychusa/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/gipsychology/posts/?feedView=all
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyduffing/

Additional Resources

• Help us make a difference in women’s healthcare. Take a few minutes and complete this survey.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos.  

Hormones are crucial in shaping your overall well-being, affecting everything from mood and energy to sleep quality. Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) has become a popular “natural” option for addressing hormonal imbalances. But what exactly sets BHRT apart from traditional hormone therapies, and how can it benefit you?

In this episode, I sit down with BHRT expert Donna White, who shares her journey through hormone imbalances and her expertise in BHRT. Donna provides an in-depth look at how BHRT works, how it differs from conventional treatments, and the potential benefits for managing symptoms of perimenopause, menopause, and more.

Tune in to understand BHRT, explore its benefits, and learn what factors to consider when deciding if it’s the right choice for your health. 

Timestamps: 

(00:04:00) How Do Bioidentical Hormones Work

(00:06:02) Different Types of Hormones

(00:08:14) Young Women's Hormone Issues

(00:13:54) Hormones and Mental Health: What’s the Link

(00:17:30) How Do Hormones Affect Weight Management

(00:22:20) Cancer Myths Around Hormone Therapy

(00:27:01) Who’s Right for BHRT?

(00:32:02) Hormone Therapy Acceptance

About The Guest

After experiencing severe hormone problems in her mid-20s, Donna White was inspired to begin the veracious study of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. Driven by her desire for other women not to suffer as she did with premenstrual syndrome, perimenopausal or menopausal symptoms, Donna has become an internationally known speaker, published a book, written several ebooks and providers training manuals, appeared on radio and TV shows, hosted three radio shows and filmed and recorded educational videos and podcasts.

Learn more about her work in the following channels:

• https://bhrttrainingacademy.com/
• https://www.facebook.com/BHRTTrainingAcademy/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/bhrt-training-academy/
• https://www.instagram.com/bhrt_training_academy/

Additional Resources

• Help us make a difference in women’s healthcare. Take a few minutes and complete this survey.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos. 

Are menopause symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings making you feel overwhelmed? Many women struggle with the thought, “I can’t do this myself,” especially when everything feels out of control. But what if I told you that embracing your power and shifting your mindset could truly help?

Today, we’re joined by health coach Carole Murko, who transformed her life after overcoming an eye disease. Her journey taught her the powerful benefits of practices like meditation, breathwork, and self-love. In this episode, you’ll learn practical mindset techniques that can help you reclaim your health and confidently navigate menopause on your own terms.

Timestamps: 

(00:00:58) How Self-Love Transforms Your Life

(00:04:28) Qigong for Menopause

(00:05:54) Alternative Healing Methods

(00:09:26) How to Age Gracefully and Positively

(00:11:06) What Role Does Sisterhood Play in Support

(00:14:04) Effective Techniques for Stress Relief

(00:25:07) How Meditation Bridges Modern and Ancient Practices

About The Guest

Carole Murko is the master of change. Her path from Wall Street Analyst, to NPR and PBS Cooking host, and now to a mindset expert, and health and self-mastery coach is what drives her passion to help others make changes in their own lives and enable them to master their own thoughts and become the best version of themselves. She proclaims, “I help people find the healer within themselves.”

Carole’s hallmark program is Dr. Joe Dispenza’s neuroscience-based change program, CHANGE YOUR MIND…CREATE NEW RESULTS. She teaches this within corporations to corporate leaders and their teams, entrepreneurs, individuals (one-on-one), and retreat-style to groups. In addition, she coaches women on healing journeys. The program is designed to create a fundamental understanding of how our brain and body work so you can begin to master your thoughts to create your future. To master yourself. In her humble opinion, Carole says, “It is mind-blowingly effective when participants practice the tools and experience the transformation that changes their lives, their organization, or their health.” Carole is also a Dragon’s Way Qigong Instructor, a Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, a NeuroChangeSolutions HeartMath Coach, and Certified Infinite Possibilities and Playing the Matrix Instructor.

Learn more about her work in the following channels:

• http://www.loveeatheal.com/
• https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093812554445
• https://www.instagram.com/loveeatheal/
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/carole-murko-2b310b/

Additional Resources

• Help us make a difference in women’s healthcare. Take a few minutes and complete this survey.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos. 
• Shaklee Vitamins - https://HelloHotFlash.com/shop

In today’s episode, we’re cracking the code on easing the financial burden of major medical care. Join us as attorney Joanna Fawzy Doran shares essential tips and strategies for managing the high costs associated with serious health conditions.

Joanna, who brings her expertise from years of advocating for patients, will teach how to navigate the complex world of medical expenses effectively. She’ll cover practical steps for negotiating with insurance companies, understanding your rights, and exploring available financial assistance programs you might not know exist.

If you’re facing the stress of major medical bills or just want to be prepared for potential challenges, this episode provides crucial information to help you reduce costs and manage your healthcare finances more effectively.

Timestamps: 

(00:03:39) Knowing your rights

(00:06:38) Appeals in insurance

(00:08:12) Resources and support

(00:10:51) Legal protections overview

(00:17:47) Assistance programs

(00:23:18) ACA benefits explained

(00:30:23) Coverage of preventive services

About The Guest

Joanna Fawzy Doran, Esq. is the CEO of Triage Cancer and a cancer rights attorney. She has spent almost 30 years advocating for and educating individuals with cancer, their families and healthcare professionals. Joanna is an engaging and dynamic speaker who can provide insight into the legal and practical issues that can occur when dealing with cancer and other major medical diagnoses, including health insurance, employment and financial concerns.

Learn more about her work in the following channels:

• https://triagecancer.org/
• https://www.facebook.com/TriageCancer
• https://www.instagram.com/triagecancer/
• https://www.linkedin.com/groups/4423897/
• https://x.com/TriageCancer

Additional Resources

Today's episode is sponsored by Midi Health.  The experts at Midi Health understand exactly what you’re going through because they specialize in menopause care. Their clinicians provide safe, effective, and FDA-approved solutions designed specifically for you. Plus, Midi care is covered by major insurance providers, so you don’t have to worry about hidden costs or membership fees.   You deserve to feel great, and Midi can help you get there. Schedule a virtual visit today to discuss your symptoms in depth with their experts. You’ll leave feeling heard and with a personalized plan to start feeling better. Visit JoinMidi.com and take the first step toward relief."

Today’s episode explores an unconventional approach to menopause management: the potential of cannabis. If you’re navigating menopause and searching for relief, have you considered cannabis? 

Join Dr. Lauren Streicher, a leading expert in women’s health, as she uncovers the latest insights on this intriguing topic. Dr. Streicher breaks down the endocannabinoid system, clarifies the differences between THC and CBD, and explains how these elements could impact your menopause symptoms. She also discusses the benefits, health risks, and the crucial “start low and go slow” strategy.

For those feeling curious, hesitant, or seeking clarity, this episode serves as an essential guide to understanding the role of cannabis in menopause management.

Timestamps: 

(00:01:27) Cannabis for Menopause

(00:03:51) THC vs. CBD Differences

(00:06:27) Women Share Cannabis Experiences

(00:09:16) Cannabis vs. Hormone Therapy

(00:12:03) Cardiovascular Concerns Discussed

(00:18:20) Postmenopausal Cannabis Metabolism

(00:21:19) Dosage and Drug Interactions

(00:33:01) FDA and Cannabis Research

About The Guest

Lauren Streicher, MD is the Medical Director of Community Education and Outreach for Midi Health, the leading virtual clinic for women navigating perimenopause and menopause. In addition to her role with Midi, Dr. Streicher is a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine and founded the Northwestern Medicine Center for Sexual Medicine and Menopause. She is a Certified Menopause Practitioner of The Menopause Society, serves on the Editorial Board of the journal Menopause and is a Senior Research Fellow for the Kinsey Institute, Indiana University. In addition to her role as Midi’s Medical Director of Community Education and Outreach, Dr. Streicher educates women through her podcast, “Dr. Streicher’s Inside Information,” is the author of 5 bestselling books on women’s health and is a columnist for Prevention Magazine and The Ethel by AARP. In addition to her consumer books and articles, Dr. Streicher has authored multiple scientific publications, serves on many advisory boards and has been the recipient of many awards including the North American Menopause Society Media Award. 

Learn more about her work in the following channels:

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-streicher-md-1b314b13/
• https://twitter.com/drstreicher
• https://www.facebook.com/DrStreicher/
• https://www.instagram.com/drstreich/
• https://www.youtube.com/c/DrStreicherTV

Additional Resources

• Help us make a difference in women’s healthcare. Take a few minutes and complete this survey.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos.  

Making the leap from corporate to entrepreneurship can be daunting, but it's a journey that many successful midlife women have navigated. 

In today’s episode, Toni Eastwood shares her own experience transitioning from the corporate world to starting her own business. She discusses the common challenges women face, like imposter syndrome and fear of risk, as well as strategies for finding your purpose, creating work-life balance, and designing a fulfilling entrepreneurial path. 

Whether you're considering entrepreneurship or already running your own business, this episode offers valuable guidance on overcoming obstacles and embracing the freedom and flexibility of being your own boss.

Timestamps: 

(00:07:00) Women's career transition challenges

(00:08:14) Importance of career identity

(00:13:01) Post-corporate identity struggles

(00:15:45) Menopause impacts on careers

(00:20:16) Balancing entrepreneurial life

(00:25:07) Time management routines

About Our Guest

Toni Eastwood has spent the last 30+ years researching how successful people become, successful, she specialises in Helping 40+ Women Leaders to navigate from Corporate into Entrepreneurship. Ignite their Purpose and Create the Life they Truly Desire. Using her proven ASPIRE Model. She is and Award Winning Entrepreneur, Mentor, NXD, Podcast Host. Awarded an OBE, by the Queen in 2007.

Learn more about her work in the following channels:

• https://quantumvantage.co.uk/
• https://www.facebook.com/toni.eastwood.73
• https://www.instagram.com/tonieastwood_obe/
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonieastwoodobe/

Additional Resources

• Like to watch your podcast episodes? Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos.  
• Listen to my limited series podcast "Christian Women and Menopause" for Bible-based strategies on dealing with menopause symptoms like stress, anxiety, and depression.

In today’s episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Jill Wener, a board-certified internist and EFT practitioner. Dr. Jill reveals how tapping has become a powerful tool for managing menopause symptoms and balancing emotional well-being. She explains how this technique works to regulate the nervous system and address issues like hot flashes and stress.

Dr. Jill also explores how tapping can support broader issues, including racial trauma and health equity, and offers practical advice on patient advocacy.

Don’t miss this insightful conversation!

Timestamps: 

(00:02:55) Understanding Tapping: How It Reduces Stress  

(00:07:11) Using Tapping to Alleviate Symptoms  

(00:10:48) Finding Emotional Grounding with Tapping  

(00:13:46) Tapping as a Tool for Sustainable Activism  

(00:17:08) The Versatility of Tapping in Healthcare  

(00:25:25) How Tapping Empowers Healthcare Advocacy

About The Guest

Jill Wener, MD, is a board-certified Internist, EFT/tapping practitioner and trainer, anti-racism educator, DEI consultant, trauma specialist, allyship coach, expert in physician wellness, and Co-Founder and Partner at Conscious Anti-Racism, LLC. She is passionate about helping people take responsibility for their problems and teaching them practical, easy, rewarding, and trauma-informed tools to take self-improvement to the next level. Jill is the co-creator of the CME-accredited Conscious Anti-Racism training programs, the host of the Conscious Anti-Racism podcast, and the co-author of the best-selling Conscious Anti-Racism book. She has created CME-accredited EFT/tapping and meditation courses. 

Jill has worked with clients such as Georgia Aquarium, Yale University, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Centene, Santa Clara Medical Society, Rush University Medical Center, the Pittsburgh Business Group on Health, Atkins Global, and the National Alliance for Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions. 

Learn more about her work in the following channels:

• https://www.jillwener.com/
• http://www.instagram.com/jillwenerMD
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillwenermd/

Additional Resources

• Help us make a difference in women’s healthcare. Take a few minutes and complete this survey.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos. 

Feeling tired, gaining weight, or struggling with mood swings? The solution might be balancing your thyroid and hormones. 

In this episode, Dr. Amy Brenner, a board-certified gynecologist, shares her personal journey of finding whole-body health through hormone optimization. After years of feeling off despite following all the right advice, she discovered that comprehensive hormone testing—including thyroid, adrenals, blood sugar, and nutrients—was the key to real balance.

Tune in to learn about common thyroid symptoms, essential tests to ask your doctor for, and lifestyle changes that can boost your energy and mood. Hear Dr. Brenner’s story and get tips for better, more comprehensive care.

Timestamps: 

(00:00:34) Whole body gynecology approach

(00:07:35) Symptoms of thyroid dysfunction

(00:09:17) Comprehensive thyroid testing

(00:12:33) Interplay: Thyroid and sex hormones

(00:15:54) Lifestyle changes for health

(00:19:24) Advocating for health panels

Additional Resources

• Help us make a difference in women’s healthcare. Take a few minutes and complete this survey.
• Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos.  
• EP. 082 - How To Use Biohacking To Support Adrenal Fatigue
• Ep. 122 - How To Heal Your Thyroid

About Our Guest

Dr. Amy Brenner is board certified in gynecology and Functional Medicine. She has been treating women with a whole body approach for approximately 15 years. Her special interest is treating women who are post menopausal.

Learn more about her work in the following channels:

• http://www.dramybrenner.com
• https://www.instagram.com/amybrennermd/

Thinking about trying a cold plunge but not sure how to start? In today’s episode, I am joined by Adrienne Jezick, the creator of the Morozko Method, which combines cold exposure with guided meditation.

Adrienne reveals her remarkable journey of overcoming autoimmune challenges through cold therapy. She explains how this method not only helps manage symptoms but also enhances resilience and overall well-being.

Join us as we explore how cold exposure can help regulate the nervous system, reduce inflammation, and empower your health journey. Adrienne will also address common misconceptions and provide practical advice for getting started with this chilly but rewarding practice.

Timestamps: 

(00:00:02) Adrienne's healing journey

(00:05:20) First ice bath experience

(00:06:20) Chronic pain relief

(00:10:17) Scientific benefits of cold

(00:16:22) Introducing Morozko Method

(00:23:56) Debunking cold exposure myths

Additional Resources

Help us make a difference in women’s healthcare.  Take a few minutes and complete this survey.   https://hellohotflash.com/survey

Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I!  Subscribe to my YouTube page to see the videos.   https://youtube.com/@hellohotflashpodcast

About The Guest

Adrienne Jezick is a health enthusiast and entrepreneur who transformed her life through Deliberate Cold Exposure. After being diagnosed with three autoimmune conditions in 2012, including Hashimoto’s, Eosinophilic Esophagitis, and Urticaria, Adrienne sought to improve her health and wellbeing. Her journey led her to discover the power of ice baths, which enabled her to reverse all traces of her autoimmune conditions, and removed the need for her prescription medications. 

In addition to her personal transformation, Adrienne has also created a sensory immersive mindful meditation technique that can be used during the stress response in the cold, which can be used anywhere in life you experience extreme stress, The Morozko Method™. Her innovative approach to cold exposure and mindfulness led her to co-found Morozko Forge, an electric ice bath company that has quickly gained recognition for its cutting edge technology and commitment to health and wellness. 

Adrienne’s passion for health and wellness, coupled with her entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to innovation, make her a leader in the field of cold exposure and mindfulness. Her personal story is a testament to the power of perseverance, determination, and an unwavering commitment to living a healthy and fulfilling life. 

Learn more about her work in the following channels:

• https://www.adriennejezick.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/adrienne_jezick/

Laurie emphasizes the importance of finding a personalized eating window that makes you feel your best, works with your lifestyle, and supports your health goals - whether that's managing blood sugar, reducing inflammation, or boosting energy. 

She debunks common fasting myths, explains the science behind the benefits, and provides a step-by-step approach for easing into an intermittent fasting routine. 

Timestamps: 

(00:07:30) Evolutionary Basis for the Human Diet

(00:11:55) Intermittent Fasting for Menopause

(00:17:07) Starting Intermittent Fasting

(00:23:20) Fasting's Physiological and Spiritual Benefits

(00:26:30) Tips for Successful Intermittent Fasting

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Laurie Lewis, Wellness Coach, shows how it’s possible for people to take exceptional care of themselves while dealing with life's complicated and fast-paced circumstances.

With Intermittent Fasting as the foundation, Laurie offers the chance to break free from the diet model we all live in. Laurie guides people to tune into their body’s inner intelligence and experience improvements in every aspect of their lives.

http://www.fastforwardwellness.com

Additional Resources:

• EP. 056 - Why Your Glucose Numbers May Increase In Midlife
• Ep. 154 - Menopause Weight Loss: 8 Things in Your Way

She emphasizes the importance of intentional rest and listening to one's body to avoid overexertion. Join us as Benita shares insights on active rest—engaging in restful activities while awake—to help replenish energy levels and maintain overall well-being.

Timestamps:
(00:01:40) Navigating Menopause Through Self-Awareness and Health

(00:12:47) Physical Signs of Stress and Burnout

(00:18:45) The Importance of Rest for Well-being

(00:19:47) Embracing Self-Care as Selfless Empowerment

(00:22:01) Active Rest for Optimal Self-Care Practices

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Benita Williams is an International Bestselling Author, Speaker, and Performance Management Coach. Affectionately known as The Self-care Surgeon, she is the CEO and lead consultant for Benita Williams Enterprises LLC., a boutique coaching and consulting company whose mission is to help women leaders who feel drained revive so that they can thrive in purpose. Benita believes that self-care is essential to peak performance. 

Learn more about her work in the following channels:

• http://www.benitawilliams.com
• https://web.facebook.com/authorbenitakbrown
• https://www.instagram.com/benitabwilliams/?hl=en
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/benita-williams-688393175
• https://sleek.bio/restinationretreat

Additional Resources:

• Free Resource 1 Minute Quiz To Identify Your Timewasters
• EP. 069 - Easy Ideas for Making Yourself a Priority
• Ep. 131 - How To Improve Perimenopause Symptoms With Self-Care

In today’s episode, I chat with Dr. Malaika about hormone replacement therapy (HRT). She breaks down the evolution of HRT research and clears up some of the confusion caused by the 2002 Women's Health Initiative study.

Dr. Malaika discusses how hormones can benefit bone and heart health and explains the different types of HRT available. She stresses the importance of getting the right dosage and the need for comprehensive lab panels to tailor the therapy to each individual.

Tune in to learn more about how HRT can be a game-changer for women's health and get the info you need to have informed conversations with your doctor.

Timestamps:

(00:03:40) Evolution of Hormone Replacement Therapy Research

(00:17:35) Connection Between HRT and Alzheimer's Disease

(00:18:51) Disparities in Women's Health for People of Color

(00:20:22) Bias and Socioeconomic Factors in Healthcare Access

(00:25:12) Future of HRT and Access to Treatment

About Our Guest

Dr. Woods loves to encourage her patients with this idea: ”The human body is divinely designed and has a great capacity to heal itself. We just need to learn how to fuel the body with what it needs.” Malaika Woods, MD, MPH

Dr. Malaika Woods is dually board certified with the American Board of Obesity Medicine and the American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology.

She is also a certified practitioner with the Institute for Functional Medicine and she has certification in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy for men and women. 

Dr. Woods is founder of Dr. Woods Wellness, established in 2013 which focuses on root causes and natural solutions to optimizing health. She is also the #1 best-selling author of Physician Unleashed: The Physician Freedom Formula. In addition to running her own independent practice, Dr. Woods also coaches other physicians and practitioners on starting and growing their independent practices.

Learn more about her work in the following channels:

• http://drwoodswellness.com
• https://www.facebook.com/drwoodswellness
• https://www.instagram.com/malaikawoodsmd
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/malaika-woods-md-mph

Additional Resources

• Are you struggling with hot flashes or any of the 100 perimenopause symptoms? Take the 28-Day Hot Flash Free Scorecard Challenge and manage your symptoms.  You will get tips on how to navigate the menopause journey! 
• EP. 060 - Should I Use Hormone Replacement Therapy 
• Ep. 126 - Is HRT Right For You? Dr. Mindy Goldman Answers Our Questions
• Get the free guide, "3 Secrets to Hormone Balance Every Woman Should Know," at drwoodswellness.com/guide.

FOLLOW US:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HelloHotFlashPodcast

Recognizing the significant knowledge gap and societal stigma surrounding anal health, Dr. Bucher emphasizes the need for open conversations and proactive screening, especially for high-risk groups.

Timestamps:

(00:01:50) Raising Awareness on Anal Cancer Risks

(00:11:18) Prioritizing Anal Cancer Screening for Improved Health
(00:13:22) Destigmatizing Anal Cancer Screening Discussions

(00:16:55) Smoking and HPV Vaccination in Anal Cancer

About Our Guest

For over 35 years, Dr. Bucher has been a leader in clinical care and research with HIV/ AIDS patients. He has felt the need to be on the forefront of advances and care for PLWH. Dr. Bucher saw the rates of anal cancer increasing in PLWH, MSM and other high-risk groups.

For over 35 years, Dr. Bucher has been a leader in clinical care and research with HIV/ AIDS patients. He has felt the need to be on the forefront of advances and care for PLWH. Dr. Bucher saw the rates of anal cancer increasing in PLWH, MSM and other high-risk groups.

Dr. Bucher has remained passionate about the the clinical advancements in the treatment of HPV related diseases. In 2020, Dr. Bucher began to develop a mentorship training program to prepare the next generation of providers in anal precancer screening and treatment. The multi-tiered preceptorship program officially launched in 2023 and is primed to fill a much needed gap in the growing need for providers who are proficient in HRA and HSIL treatments.

Learn more about his work in the following channels:

• https://adcmidwest.com/
• https://www.facebook.com/adcmidwest/
• https://www.instagram.com/adcmidwest/
• https://www.youtube.com/@ADCMidwest
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/anal-dysplasia-clinic-midwest-adc-midwest/

SHOW NOTES LINK:

https://hellohotflash.com/episodes

Additional Resources

• Are you struggling with hot flashes or any of the 100 perimenopause symptoms? Take the 28-Day Hot Flash Free Scorecard Challenge and manage your symptoms.  You will get tips on how to navigate the menopause journey!
• Ep. 102 - Why You Should Be Tested For HPV

FOLLOW US:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hellohotflashpodcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hellohotflashpodcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanielynnshaw/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HelloHotFlashPodcast

TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@hellohotflashpodcast 

Dr. K is a practicing double-board-certified gynecologist specializing in menopause care and blends phytotherapy and functional medicine to offer tailored treatment. She'll shed light on ethnic disparities in menopause healthcare and provide insights into navigating menopause with specialized support.

We'll explore how health disparities affect menopausal experiences, especially in marginalized communities, and discuss holistic solutions for equitable healthcare.

If you're curious about the link between health disparities and menopause care, join us for an enlightening discussion!

I also invite you to contribute to our ongoing efforts to understand the socio-economic impact on menopause experiences. Take part in our survey, 'Uncovering Socio-Economic Disparities in Menopause,' and help us gather valuable insights to enhance support for women across diverse communities. 

Your participation is vital in shaping more inclusive and equitable healthcare practices.

Timestamps:

00:00:16 Personalized Menopause Care with Functional Medicine

00:07:43 Hormonal Fluctuations Misdiagnosed as Mental Health

00:10:13 Botanical Solutions for Menopausal Symptom Relief

00:14:18 Health Disparities in Menopausal Experiences

00:18:25 Ethnic Disparities in Menopause Healthcare Delivery

00:25:31 Navigating Menopause Care with Specialized Support

About Our Guest

Known as “Dr. K,” Dr. Kourtney Sims is a practicing double board certified gynecologist specializing in menopause care.  Dr. K is also an expert in functional medicine and the use of phytotherapy to treat medical conditions. She is committed to listening to patients first, to ensure she deeply understands their needs, and tailors treatment plans to the individual. Part of the reason she was drawn to specializing in menopause was seeing how women were unnecessarily suffering through years of symptoms after being dismissed by providers who didn’t have the expertise to help them.

Learn more about her work in the following channels:

https://www.drkourtney.com/

https://www.instagram.com/drkourtney

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kourtneysims/

SHOW NOTES LINK:

https://hellohotflash.com/episodes

Additional Resources

• Take part in our survey, 'Uncovering Socio-Economic Disparities in Menopause,' to help us understand how menopause affects various communities and improves support for women.
• Medical Symptom Questionaire: This questionnaire has been used for over 20 years by practitioners to identify the body's burden for toxicity to evaluate the need for a comprehensive detoxification protocol.  

Studies: 

• Disparities in Reproductive Aging and Midlife Health between Black and White women: The Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN) 
• Racial/Ethnic Disparities in the Diagnosis and Management of Menopause Symptoms Among Midlife Women Veterans

FOLLOW US:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hellohotflashpodcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hellohotflashpodcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanielynnshaw/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HelloHotFlashPodcast

TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@hellohotflashpodcast

Diann sheds light on the challenges women face in obtaining accurate ADHD diagnoses, from societal misconceptions to hormonal influences and personal motivations. She highlights the need for a more nuanced and individualized approach to diagnosis, emphasizing the importance of thorough evaluation and understanding how ADHD presents in adult women.

Join us as we explore Diann's perspective on reframing ADHD as a superpower rather than a disability.

Timestamps:

(00:02:18) Hormonal Impact on ADHD Diagnosis in Women

(00:06:40) Misdiagnoses due to Overeager ADHD Diagnoses

(00:09:44) Varied manifestations of ADHD in individuals

(00:13:58) Hormonal Influence on ADHD Symptoms in Perimenopause

(00:17:42) Rejection Sensitivity Impact on Emotional Regulation in ADHD

About Our Guest

After two decades as a successful psychotherapist, Diann reinvented herself as a coach, so she could shift the conversation from problems to possibilities.  She passionately believes that midlife is the most powerful if we are truly willing to let go of whatever is holding us back. 

Since turning 40, Diann spent a decade as a single parent, raising her three children to adulthood, learned to drive a stick shift, embraced Buddhism,  traveled the world,  gone skydiving,  studied German, remarried, been tattooed, changed careers and started her own business. 

Now in her 6th decade,  Diann is continuing to learn, evolve and defy her own limits, while helping others do the same. She has a particular fondness for coaching the “driven but distracted” over 50 entrepreneur and has extensive experience and expertise in women who discover that they have ADHD at midlife.  

Learn more about her work on the following channels:

• https://www.diannwingertcoaching.com/
• https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-driven-woman/id1513039926
• https://www.instagram.com/coachdiannwingert/
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/diannwingertcoaching/

SHOW NOTES LINK:

https://hellohotflash.com/episodes

Additional Resources

• Are you struggling with hot flashes or any of the 100 perimenopause symptoms? Take the 28-Day Hot Flash Free Scorecard Challenge and manage your symptoms.  You will get tips on how to navigate the menopause journey!  https://hellohotflash.com/scorecard
• Take the Quiz and Conquer Your Day: What's Holding You Back? Find out what's stopping you so you can outsmart it.
• Are you ready to take charge of your health goals? Don't miss the opportunity to be a guest on our podcast and share your wellness journey. Book your spot for a FREE 30-minute Lifestyle Conversation at https://www.hellohotflash.com/meno-audit.

FOLLOW US:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hellohotflashpodcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hellohotflashpodcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanielynnshaw/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HelloHotFlashPodcast

TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@hellohotflashpodcast

Sandy teaches us that metabolism isn't just about biology—it's crucial for our vitality. She focuses on key indicators like triglyceride levels, blood pressure, and waist size. For instance, a larger waist can signal excess fat linked to issues like insulin resistance and heart problems.

But Sandy goes beyond numbers. She shows how these factors connect, offering a holistic view of metabolic wellness. By understanding this interplay, she guides us towards better health.

Join us as we learn from Sandy's expertise. Are you ready to discover the secrets to a healthier metabolism? Let's go!

Timestamps:

(00:04:02) Sandy Krause's Journey to Holistic Wellness

(00:07:33) Monitoring Health Through Blood Glucose Trends

(00:17:25) Personalized Diet Plan for Metabolic Health

(00:20:45) Optimal Health Through Balanced Meal Timing

(00:23:46) Optimal Energy and Weight Management Through Nutrition

(00:28:29) Enhancing Nutrient Absorption with Mineralized Water

About Our Guest

Sandy Kruse is the host and creator of the popular Sandy K Nutrition Health & Lifestyle Queen Podcast, now over 1 million downloads.  She is also a Registered Holistic Nutritionist, a Certified Metabolic Balance Coach, a Biohacker and an aging-well advocate at 54 years of age. Sandy holds a Bachelor’s degree in English Literature, and at 49, graduated with a diploma in holistic nutrition from the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition. Sandy educates on alternative means for healing, wellness and preventative care, and shares them with the world through her podcast and social media presence. She believes all humans need a little of everything to be aligned in body, mind, and soul. Post-thyroidectomy due to thyroid cancer at 41, after many years of trying almost every style of eating, Sandy asserts that balance is the key to living well, enjoying life, and living life well into those golden years – both happy and healthy.  Sandy is working on her first book which speaks to balance in life by looking at all aspects of wellness to incorporate a little bit of science and a lot of soul.

Learn more about her work on the following channels:

• https://sandyknutrition.ca
• https://sandykruse.ca
• https://www.instagram.com/sandyknutrition/

SHOW NOTES LINK:

https://hellohotflash.com/episodes

Additional Resources

• Leading Her Way: Conversations about leadership, career growth, business and mindset for mid-life introvert women.
• Are you ready to take charge of your health goals? Don't miss the opportunity to be a guest on our podcast and share your wellness journey. Book your spot for a FREE 30-minute Lifestyle Conversation at https://www.hellohotflash.com/meno-audit.

FOLLOW US:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hellohotflashpodcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hellohotflashpodcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanielynnshaw/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HelloHotFlashPodcast

TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@hellohotflashpodcast

Our guest, Dr. Kiera Barr, shares her personal journey from traditional dermatology to an integrative, mind-body approach to skin wellness. 

Dr. Barr explains how hormonal shifts, stress, and even childhood experiences can profoundly impact the skin during perimenopause and menopause. She provides practical tips on managing common skin concerns like acne, dryness, and hair loss through lifestyle changes.

Whether you're struggling with menopausal skin changes, stubborn acne, or simply seeking to age gracefully, this episode promises to be a game-changer. 

Timestamps:

(00:04:37) Hormonal Changes Impacting Skin Health in Menopause

(00:12:24) Stress-Induced Skin Issues: The Link Revealed

(00:14:07) Internal Factors and Skin Health in Perimenopause

(00:14:22) Skin Health Reflection through Skincare Audit

(00:28:07) Effective Skincare Regimen Essentials

(00:34:05) Plant-Based Bakuchiol: Nature's Gentle Retinoid Alternative

About The Guest

Dr. Keira Barr is an innovator in transformative wellness, combining her work as a dual board certified integrative dermatologist and mind-body medicine specialist with body-based trauma healing approaches to skin health. As a speaker,author, and host of “The Skinny Dipping Rx” podcast, Dr. Keira teaches women around the world how to relieve stress and rejuvenate from within. She created the Somatic Skincare™ method to support her mission of revolutionizing skincare as an act of radical self-care, blending science with soul to help women around the world amplify their resilience, confidence and comfort in their skin. Her expertise, bridging the gap between skin health and mental health, has earned recognition in top media outlets like MindBodyGreen, Glamour, SELF and Oprah magazines as well as prestigious medical journals. 

Learn more about her work in the following channels:

• https://drkeirabarr.com
• www.instagram.com/drkeirabarr
• www.linkedin/in/keirabarr

Additional Resources

If you feel like you’ve tried every pill, potion and procedure and not getting results, this FREE skincare quiz is for you. Discover why you're not getting results and exactly what to do about it.

Ep. 105 - How Your Skincare Routine Can Effect Your Menopause Transition

Ep. 115 - How To Manage Menopause-Related Skin Issues

Ep. 130 - How to Care For Your Skin Inside and Out During Menopause

Join me as we explore the vital connection between age and sleep quality and how hormones like melatonin, cortisol, estrogen, and progesterone affect our ability to rest. 

Discover the seven areas of life where rest is essential, and find out where you need to prioritize rest in your own life.

Timestamps:

(00:03:25) Hormonal Balance and Rest for Menopausal Health

(00:10:03) Prioritizing Self-Care in Seven Life Domains

(00:12:35) Embracing Rest for Self-Care Benefits

(00:14:06) Enhancing Well-Being Through Rest Practices

To all my high-performing mamas, wives, and professional women, it’s time to get rid of the love handles, stop snapping at your loved ones, and let your hormones know you are in charge!  And while you're at it, you can regain some time that can be used just for you. 

Join us for a free live webinar - Navigating Menopause: 6 easy-to-implement strategies for weight loss, better sleep, and less stress!

In today’s episode, I'm sharing my personal experience, revealing how menopause can unexpectedly strain your wallet. 

Yes, I'm talking about my own journey, where I ended up spending an extra $20,000 out of pocket due to menopause-related issues.

I'll uncover the hidden financial challenges of menopause, exploring how symptoms like stress, hot flashes, and sleep disturbances can lead to missed workdays, stalled promotions, and financial strain. 

Timestamps:

(00:01:33) Menopause Symptoms' Influence on Work Performance

(00:08:54) Financial Impact of Menopause Education

(00:10:34) Financial Consequences of Menopause in Employment

(00:22:06) Menopause Management for Workplace Success

Additional Resources:

To all my high-performing mamas, wives, and professional women, it’s time to get rid of the love handles, stop snapping at your loved ones, and let your hormones know you are in charge!  And while you're at it, you can regain some time that can be used just for you. 

Join us for a free live webinar - Navigating Menopause: 6 easy-to-implement strategies for weight loss, better sleep, and less stress!

We'll uncover how dietary choices, self-care habits, and more may impact your menopause experience.

If you find yourself in one of these situations—struggling with weight, sleep issues, hot flashes, low libido, or stress—I'll share actionable tips to help you navigate through this time of life more smoothly.

I want to support you through menopause, and I believe the best place to start is with my free live webinar, "Navigating Menopause." Join me to gain practical strategies and guidance for managing menopause symptoms effectively.

Timestamps:

(00:02:39) Menopause Transition and Self-Care Practices

(00:08:29) Optimizing Menopause Nutrition with Quality Supplements

(00:11:55) Empowering Women Through Menopause Mastery

Additional Resource:

To all my high-performing mamas, wives, and professional women, it’s time to get rid of the love handles, stop snapping at your loved ones, and let your hormones know you are in charge!  And while you're at it, you can regain some time that can be used just for you. 

Join us for a free live webinar - Navigating Menopause: 6 easy-to-implement strategies for weight loss, better sleep, and less stress!

In today's episode, I'll explore the psychological barriers that might be keeping you from reaching your desired weight.

From emotional eating triggers to deep-seated beliefs about food, we'll uncover how your mindset can impact your weight loss journey. 

Ready to take the next step on your weight loss journey? I invite you to join me in my upcoming free live webinar, "Navigating Menopause: 6 Strategies for Weight Loss, Better Sleep, and Less Stress!" where I'll share more in-depth strategies for achieving sustainable weight loss.

Timestamps:

00:01:28 Emotional Connections to Family Food Experiences
00:07:41 Emotional Food Connections and Psychological Well-being
00:11:03 Psychological Barriers in Achieving Ideal Weight
00:16:01 Empowering Menopausal Wellness Through Practical Strategies

To all my high-performing mamas, wives, and professional women, it’s time to get rid of the love handles, stop snapping at your loved ones, and let your hormones know you are in charge!  And while you're at it, you can regain some time that can be used just for you. 

Join us for a free webinar - Navigating Menopause: 6 easy-to-implement strategies for weight loss, better sleep, and less stress!

I'll discuss why taking action now is a BIG DEAL rather than waiting for the "perfect" moment. 

Learn practical strategies for managing weight and stress, and discover how small, consistent steps can significantly improve your well-being. 

Ready to take action? Join our free webinar, "Navigating Menopause: 6 Strategies for Weight Loss, Better Sleep, and Less Stress!" and let's empower your journey together.

Timestamps:

(00:00:29) Proactive Approach to Menopausal Symptom Management
(00:05:21) Proactive Health Choices for Menopausal Wellness
(00:08:51) Embracing Imperfections in Decision Making Process(00:12:40) Empowering Connections: Achieving Goals Together

Additional Resources:

To all my high-performing mamas, wives, and professional women, it’s time to get rid of the love handles, stop snapping at your loved ones, and let your hormones know you are in charge!  And while you're at it, you can regain some time that can be used just for you. 

Join us for a free live webinar - Navigating Menopause: 6 easy-to-implement strategies for weight loss, better sleep, and less stress!

Join me as I open up about my own journey and discuss practical strategies for tackling weight loss challenges during this transformative phase of life. We'll cover everything from understanding the root causes of weight gain to implementing effective lifestyle changes.

Whether you're looking to shed a few pounds or simply want to feel healthier and more confident, this episode is for you. Tune in now!

Timestamps:

(00:04:59) Reasons for Weight Gain

(00:11:06) Aging and Its Impact

(00:14:18) Importance of Sleep

(00:20:47) Mood Disorders and Weight

(00:25:58) Strategies for Weight Loss

Additional Resources:

To all my high-performing mamas, wives, and professional women, it’s time to get rid of the love handles, stop snapping at your loved ones, and let your hormones know you are in charge!  And while you're at it, you can regain some time that can be used just for you. 

Join us for a free webinar - Navigating Menopause: 6 easy-to-implement strategies for weight loss, better sleep, and less stress!

I'll explore the importance of nurturing balanced gut health through probiotics and incorporating gut-friendly foods like plant-based yogurt, kefir, and kimchi into our diets. I'll also introduce a structured twelve-week plan aimed at improving gut health.

Additionally, I'm inviting you to a free webinar to delve deeper into strategies for weight loss, better sleep, and stress reduction, all while highlighting the pivotal role of gut health during menopause.

Timestamps:

(00:02:20) Menopause's Impact on Digestive Health

(00:07:20) Maintaining Gut Health with Probiotic Foods

(00:11:01) Gradual Gut Healing for Long-Term Success

(00:20:12) Empowering Guidance for Sustainable Health Transformations

(00:22:22) Gut Health Strategies for Menopause Relief

Additional Resources:

To all my high-performing mamas, wives, and professional women, it’s time to get rid of the love handles, stop snapping at your loved ones, and let your hormones know you are in charge!  And while you're at it, you can regain some time that can be used just for you. 

Join us for a free webinar - Navigating Menopause: 6 easy-to-implement strategies for weight loss, better sleep, and less stress!

Join me as I reflect on our journey, share insights into perimenopause challenges, and highlight past episode expert discussions on pelvic floor therapy, hormone replacement therapy, and dispelling menopause myths. 

I’ll share practical tips to combat loneliness, manage symptoms, and get a sneak peek into some free events focusing on weight loss, better sleep, and stress reduction during menopause.

Timestamps:

(00:10:30) Midlife Friendships: Vital Support During Perimenopause

(00:14:20) Navigating Perimenopause: Importance of Female Community

(00:17:25) Navigating Perimenopause Through Supportive Connections

(00:20:22) Empowering Women Through Menopause Support Networks

(00:22:08) Empowerment Webinars: Managing Menopause Holistically

Additional Resource

To all my high-performing mamas, wives, and professional women, it’s time to get rid of the love handles, stop snapping at your loved ones, and let your hormones know you are in charge!  And while your at it – gain back some time that can be used just for you.  Join us for a free webinar - Navigating Menopause:  6 easy-to-implement strategies for weight loss, better sleep, and less stress!

But here's the question: How can we ensure we're harnessing the full potential of adaptogens? I'll guide you through the process of selecting high-quality adaptogens from reputable sources, ensuring purity and potency.

Discover my top recommendations, including licorice root,  ginseng, and Ashwagandha, and learn practical tips for seamlessly integrating them into your daily routine. 

Timestamps:

(00:00:35) Hormone Impact: Stress in Menopause Symptoms

(00:04:10) Adaptogens for Menopausal Stress Management

(00:09:56) Natural Balance Through Adaptogens

(00:19:19) Nature-Based Alternatives for Menopausal Symptom Management

(00:22:52) Adaptogens Enhancing Wellness Through Lifestyle Adjustments

In today's episode, we will talk about a little gland in our brain that plays a big role in regulating our body's functions. It's called the hypothalamus, and it's responsible for many systems of our bodies.

Our guest, Deborah Maragopoulos, is an expert in this area and will help us understand why the hypothalamus is so important, especially during menopause. She'll share practical tips on how we can support our hypothalamus through sleep, nutrition, and a positive mindset. 

Whether you're going through menopause or want to learn more about how your body works, this episode is for you!

Timestamps:

00:04:36 Hypothalamus: Maestro of Hormonal Symphony

00:06:16 Hypothalamus Control in Hormone Regulation Dynamics

00:13:17 Optimizing Hypothalamic Health Through Sleep Rituals

00:15:49 Hypothalamus Support Through Specialized Nutritional Formula

00:22:27 Positive Thoughts for Physical Healing

00:40:52 Hormone Balance Strategy for Menopause Management

00:41:28 Navigating Menopause with Knowledge and Confidence

About Our Guest

Deborah Maragopoulos is an intuitive integrative family nurse practitioner who has spent over thirty years blending the Science of Medicine with the Art of Healing to help thousands of people heal from a variety of symptoms and thrive by treating their hypothalamus. Specializing in neuro-immune endocrinology, Deborah focuses on optimizing the function of the hypothalamus - the maestro of the symphony of hormones.  She is the author of several books, including her latest, "The Hypothalamus Handbook," which outlines the steps people can take to start healing their hypothalamus on their own. 

Learn more about her work in the following channels:

https://genesisgold.com

SHOW NOTES LINK:

https://hellohotflash.com/episodes

Additional Resources

• Get 10% off anything in Deborah's webshop here: https://shop.genesisgold.com/discount/HELLOHOTFLASH10 or simply put the code: HELLOHOTFLASH10
• Watch our Facebook Live here: https://fb.watch/rH8Mmx-DbV/

FOLLOW US:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hellohotflashpodcast

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/hellohotflashpodcast

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanielynnshaw/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HelloHotFlashPodcast

TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@hellohotflashpodcast

Join me as we delve into how the weight of caregiving responsibilities, including the care of aging parents, support for adult children, and perhaps even grandchildren, intersects with the physiological changes of menopause.

I'll shine a light on the profound impact of this dual role on the waistline and the ability to prioritize self-care. I'll recognize the roles we fulfill – from caretaker to nurturer to confidante – and the toll it can take on our health and well-being.

Timestamps:

(00:05:36) Caregiving Impact on Perimenopausal Symptoms

(00:12:37) Preventing Burnout: Essential Self-Care for Caregivers

(00:20:39) Menopause and Caregiving Support Community Building

(00:21:30) Holistic Well-being Strategies for Menopause Empowerment

(00:22:46) Empowering Women Through Menopausal Well-being

Join Navigating Menopause - our interactive group course that empowers you to improve your sleep, reduce stress levels, manage your weight, and enhance your overall well-being through holistic approaches. 

Ep. 108 - What You Need To Know if You Are a Caregiver and Menopausal

You will also learn why she believes that traditional menopause treatments are often ineffective and lacking in empathy and how she's transforming the field with innovative solutions like bioidentical hormones.

Tune in to explore how regenerative medicine isn't just about looking younger—it's about feeling revitalized and reclaiming control over your health.

Timestamps:

(00:05:24) Biological Age Reversal through Regenerative Medicine

(00:13:41) Organic Approach to Hormone Balance and Fertility

(00:19:18) Menopause Hormone Therapy and Mental Well-being

(00:19:50) Hormone Replacement Therapy for Menopausal Women

(00:23:44) Healing through Connection: The Power of Community

ABOUT OUR GUEST

Dr. Prudence Hall started as a traditional gynecological surgeon and transitioned her career to focus on regenerative and integrated medicine. As the founder of The Hall Center in Santa Monica, California, she saw a critical need to address the problems confronting women and men experiencing the stubborn and often debilitating symptoms associated with aging.

Her practice is focused exclusively on regenerative medicine, looking into the root causes of conditions and diseases rather than simply treating symptoms. She strives to help clients achieve optimal health and actively prevent disease without the use of pharmaceutical drugs when appropriate.

Learn more about her work on the following channels:

• https://www.thehallcenter.com/
• https://www.facebook.com/prudencehallmd/

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:

Join Navigating Menopause - your go-to community for support, advice, and connection on your menopausal journey. Get empowered with resources, insights, and a supportive network of women who share the same experience.

It's a phase where you may find yourself feeling drained and irritable, wondering why you're experiencing phantom smells and foggy thinking. These challenges can be disheartening as you navigate perimenopause.

Join me as I explore how stress and hormonal shifts, like cortisol, can impact our mood, making it tough to shake off those discouraging moments. I will be sharing practical strategies that have helped me to uplift my spirits and stay positive through it all.

Timestamps:

(00:00:01) Empowering Self-Talk for Perimenopausal Resilience

(00:03:01) Hormonal Links and Self-Perception Battles

(00:04:34) Cortisol's Impact on Discouragement During Perimenopause

(00:09:51) The Impact of Negative Self-Talk on Health

(00:22:39) Empowering Self-Transformation Through Positive Community Support