The Positive Pause

In this episode, Joe Hoye, Owner/Operator of Hoye Fit, joins us for a discussion about how he helps women, especially those over the age of 40, in creating lasting change through fitness, nutrition, health and mindset.Most coaches tell women to eat less and move more—Joe Hoye does the opposite. Through Diet Detox, he simplifies nutrition and fitness, helping women eat more, exercise less, and focus on what truly matters: breaking free from self-sabotage, shifting their identity, and achieving healthy forever weight loss.With a background in surgery and years of coaching, Joe has helped over 1,000 women ditch restrictive diets, rebuild their metabolism, and reshape their lives. His bold approach proves that lasting change isn't found in another diet—it's found in a total mindset shift. Joe and Claire discuss: Why Most Diets Fail - Restrictive diets lead to short-term results but long-term failure. Joe's “Diet Detox” method focuses on enjoyment, consistency, and sustainable habits rather than extreme restrictions.Strength Training is the Key at Every Age - Women don't need new workouts at midlife—they need the right ones, and that means building and preserving muscle through strength training. It's not about bulky lifting—it's about keeping and gaining balance as well as muscular and bone strength as you age.Midlife Isn't Too Late to Start - Even women who've never exercised can begin with bodyweight movements, resistance bands, and gradual progress. It's never too late to start building strength and reclaiming energy.Mindset Makes the Difference - Long-term success requires identity change. For results to last a lifetime, it requires a mindset shift to think and act differently for a healthy lifestyle.Joe emphasizes shifting from “I'm trying to be healthy” to “I'm a healthy person,” and explains how mindset is often the missing link in lasting transformation. Connect with Joe:Website: https://hoyefit.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hoye-fitFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/joe.h.hoyeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/joe.dietdetox/Additional Resources:FREE Fix Your Fat Loss quiz: https://quiz.hoyefit.com Diet Detox book for $1: https://dietdetox.hoyefit.com

In this episode, Dawn Van Berkel, LPC, CCTP, CST, a mental health counselor and founder of H.E.R. Therapy, joins us for a discussion to explore the emotional challenges and opportunities women face during midlife and menopause. Dawn shares her inspiring story of going back to school in her mid-40s to earn a master's degree in counseling, proving that reinvention is possible at any age. She wants women to know it's never too late to make a career change, to go back to school to obtain a degree that will focus on what will make you thrive and always be learning. Dawn is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), a perimenopause mental health specialist, certified clinical trauma professional therapist (CCTP), certified sex therapist (CST) specializing in sexual assault and advocate for women's mental health, she helps women navigate the complex changes of midlife to reclaim and celebrate their sense of self through her practice, HER Therapy (Heal, Evolve, Reignite). In addition, EMDR and a parent coach for families with autistic children.It's important to recognize that the midlife and perimenopause phase of life is challenging, so each woman needs to first accept it and find ways that work best for them to move forward. Many women don't realize symptoms like heart palpitations, debilitating anxiety, or mood changes can be connected to perimenopause and that they often go unheard by healthcare providers and feel unvalidated.She discusses:The profound emotional shifts caused by hormonal fluctuations that often accompany perimenopause and menopause including anxiety, depression, and the heavy "mental load" women carry, managing both home and work life.The realities of trauma, not just catastrophic events, but the buildup of everyday stressors that wear down emotional resilience over time. The “light at the end of the menopause tunnel” -- that research shows postmenopausal women often experience greater life satisfaction, patience and inner peace. It's not the end, it's a reinvention.Dawn emphasized the importance to find the best first defense (e.g., talk therapy, antidepressants / SSRIs, hormone therapy, etc.) and to find a medical provider who understand women's midlife health and will help you on your menopause journey. She offers practical tools like breathwork exercises (make the exhale longer than the inhale), meditation and radical self-care strategies to help women reclaim their well-being.Connect with Dawn:Websites: https://www.hertherapyva.comhttps://www.lifedoesntpause.org/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawn-van-berkel Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/hertherapyva https://www.instagram.com/lifedoesntpause 

In this episode, Colleen McIntosh, author of Menopause: The Horror, Humility, and Humor of It All joins us to discuss her candid and humorous approach to navigating menopause. She shares insights on how humor, support, and self-care can help women thrive during this challenging life transition.Colleen's story is one of humor, resilience, and self-discovery. Having spent years in acting and advertising, Colleen turned to writing to document her personal journey through menopause, a phase she felt was largely ignored or misunderstood in society. Colleen describes the moment that inspired her to write her book, recalling a frustrating encounter at an airport where she realized how invisible she felt as an older woman. It was then that she began writing down her experiences, making humor a central theme in her narrative.Humor has been Colleen's lifeline, even in the most difficult moments. She recalls a particularly hilarious monologue about her menopausal journey that had her family in stitches, despite a few moments of shock. Humor allowed her to process her emotions and, ultimately, embrace the changes she was experiencing with a lighter heart.One of Colleen's core missions is to normalize conversations about menopause and aging. She encourages women to share their experiences with their families and communities. She believes that this openness is essential for breaking down the stigma surrounding menopause and empowering the next generation of women.She discussed the importance of:Having a support system during menopause, whether through friends, family, or local communities.  Using humor in helping you to get through menopauseEducating and communicating with the men in our lives to understand menopausePrioritizing self-care and being "selfish" in a way that ultimately benefits everyone around youColleen's story is a testament to the power of humor, self-care, and support in navigating the menopausal journey. She reminds women that they are not alone and encourages them to embrace the changes with compassion, humor, and open communication. Menopause, like any life transition, can be a time of growth, learning, and connection.Connect with Colleen: Website and blog: https://www.colleenmcintosh.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095174347324Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/colleen.mcintosh.31/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleenmcintosh Resources referenced in the podcast: Menopause: The Horror, Humility, and Humor of It All!!!

In this episode, Ingrid Harm-Ernandes, PT, WCS, a seasoned physical therapist, author, and speaker with over 40 years of experience, including almost three decades specializing in women's health, joins us for a discussion into the often overlooked but crucial topic of pelvic health, its critical role in everyday functions like bowel and bladder control, sexual health, & maintaining stability, and treatment options and resources available including NMF's free Menopause MicroCourse on genitourinary symptoms of menopause (GSM). As women enter menopause, the pelvic floor faces additional challenges, including incontinence, prolapse, and pain during sex (aka sex dysfunction). Ingrid noted that these issues are commonly misunderstood or dismissed as inevitable and as a result are not addressed. In actuality, these issues are quite treatable and should be addressed as soon as they are noted.She stressed the importance of recognizing symptoms early and seeking help from qualified, credentialed professionals (e.g., physical therapists, urogynecologists, and certified menopause practitioners / CMPs). Many of these conditions, though common, are manageable with the right care.One of the most misunderstood pelvic health issues is prolapse, where organs like the bladder or uterus shift from their normal position. Ingrid explained how prolapse often starts subtly, with symptoms like pressure or discomfort, but can progress over time without intervention. Fortunately, prolapse is treatable with both non-surgical and surgical options.Ingrid emphasized the importance of follow-through, whether it's attending physical therapy after surgery or making small changes to daily habits. Being aware of changes and understanding how to navigate health issues is an important part of continued self-care. She shared simple but effective strategies to promote pelvic health:Strengthen the Pelvic FloorStay ActiveHydrate and Eat WellSeek Professional HelpAsk QuestionsIngrid is a member of NMF's Medical Advisory Committee (MAC) and was co-faculty for the NMF's Menopause MicroCourse on genitourinary symptoms of menopause (GSM). Her book, The Musculoskeletal Mystery: How to Solve Your Pelvic Floor Symptoms, provides a deeper exploration of these topics. She has served on committees for both the American Physical Therapy Association's (APTA) Specialization Academy of Content Experts (SACE) committee and the American Urogynecologic Society (AUGS), including serving as the Chair and Vice Chair for the Advanced Practice, Physical Therapy and Allied Health (APPTAH) Special Interest Groups (SIG) and the AUGS Advanced Practice Provider (APP) conference committee.Connect with Ingrid:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ingrid-harm-ernandes-5057773b/Instagram: @harmernandesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ingrid.harmernandes.71/Resources referenced in the podcast: The Musculoskeletal Mystery: How to solve your pelvic floor symptoms -- available on DesertHarvest.com and Amazon.comThe National Menopause Foundation's Menopause MicroCourses

In this episode, Deborah Maragopoulos, FNP an intuitive integrative family nurse practitioner with over 30 years of experience in neuroimmune endocrinology, joins us for a discussion around the crucial role of the hypothalamus in managing menopause symptoms, overall health, and hormonal harmony. Specializing in hypothalamic health, Deborah has helped thousands of patients restore hormonal balance through her integrative approach. 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. She is also the Founder of Full Circle Family Health, Genesis Health Products, Inc and Divine Daughters Unite. In addition, Deborah serves as clinical endocrine advisor to Genova Laboratory and Sansum Medical Clinic, and she is also the past president of the California Association of Nurse Practitioners.The hypothalamus, often overlooked in traditional healthcare, is a small almond-shaped gland in the brain responsible for regulating the body's key functions, including temperature, metabolism, mood, sleep, and hormone balance.Deborah explains that many menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, sleep disruption, weight gain, and brain fog stem from a dysregulated hypothalamus as hormone levels fluctuate. This critical gland struggles to maintain balance as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone levels decline. Part of the problem is that hypothalamic imbalances can be hard to detect through standard tests. Deborah recommends and uses a comprehensive health history, lab analysis, and symptoms checklists to diagnose and treat her patients.Topics covered in this episode:The hypothalamus' role in menopause and perimenopause How perimenopause and menopause affect your hypothalamus Some of the most common disorders and medical conditions that might be linked to an unbalanced hypothalamus and how to talk with your medical provider about itFive lifestyle pillars to keep the hypothalamus functioning optimally Specializing in neuro-immune endocrinology, Deborah focuses on optimizing the function of the hypothalamus - the maestro of the symphony of hormones. Her approach combines cutting-edge science with a holistic perspective, offering hope to those struggling with unexplained symptoms or chronic health issues. Connect with Deborah: website: https://genesisgold.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thehormonequeen/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deborahmaragopoulosfnp/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborah-maragopoulos-mn-fnp-422b8014 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTwDjUWkxsANSmh2wF5ltSg Resources Referenced in the Podcast:FREE Menopause Action Plan Guide: https://genesisgold.com/map-guide/FREE Hormone Reboot Training:  https://genesisgold.com/hormone-reboot-training/?utm_source=positivepauseFor a 10% OFF Discount in Deborah's store -- use coupon code: POSITIVEPAUSE10 (https://shop.genesisgold.com/discount/POSITIVEPAUSE10)

In this episode, Stephanie Mitchell, a certified personal trainer (CPT) and the inspiring wellness coach behind Stephanie Mitchell Fitness, joins us for a discussion around how women can prioritize wellness through the complex journey of perimenopause and menopause. In our conversation, Stephanie shares insights on staying connected to our "why" in our wellness routines, staying resilient as our bodies change, and building community as a powerful support network during this phase of life.Stephanie is a dedicated wellness, meditation and fitness professional who helps women to become stronger and more mindful so they may live their most fearless life, especially during their perimenopausal and menopausal years. Through a balanced and holistic approach to wellness, she helps women discover what's right for them when it comes to changing up their routine when they reach midlife. Topics covered in this episode:Build the life you want moving forward: One of Stephanie's key insights is that motivation to stay active and healthy shouldn't come from a desire to “get back” to our past selves but to build the life we want moving forward. Too often, we focus on goals like losing weight or looking younger, but Stephanie encourages women to go deeper and ask, "Why do I want this?" Whether it's the energy to keep up with family or the strength to pursue new adventures, finding a motivating factor for the future helps us prioritize what truly matters.Small sustainable changes to build systems: Stephanie is a firm believer in small, sustainable changes over extreme, quick-fix solutions. Drawing inspiration from James Clear's book, "Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad One", she encourages clients to build systems, like starting their day with just the act of putting on workout clothes before progressing to a workout routine. This approach keeps us from feeling overwhelmed and leads to long-lasting, positive changes in how we care for ourselves.Community's role in keeping healthy habits: Whether we need to get healthy or maintain our health, community can play such an essential role in sticking with healthy habits. Studies show that people who exercise with friends or in groups are more likely to maintain a consistent routine. Whether working one-on-one with a trainer or joining a group class, community can provide accountability, encouragement, and a much-needed sense of camaraderie. Connect with StephanieWebsite: https://www.stephaniemitchellfitness.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanie-mitchell-074497335/ Instagram: @stephaniemitchellfitness Your Empowered Evolution, A Podcast Dedicated to Women in Mid-Life Podcast

In this episode Jack Tuckner, Esq. and Catherine Crider, Esq. of Tuckner, Sipser, Weinstock & Sipser, LLP, a NY-based law firm dedicated to workplace gender rights, join us to discuss the significant challenges faced by women at midlife, particularly around menopause, and how the workplace can better support them. The conversation is a deep dive into the legal landscape of workplace accommodations, how to navigate discussions about menopause with employers, and why it's critical to push for legislative changes, such as a Menopause Workplace Fairness Act.With over 20 years of experience, Jack advocates for working women at all stages of their reproductive life cycle, from pregnancy through menopause. His practice focuses on combating sexual harassment, pregnancy discrimination, illegal gender pay disparity, sex discrimination, maternity leave matters, unlawful retaliation, and wrongful termination. He has long fought for women's rights and against the unequal and wrongful treatment of women in the workplace. In doing so, Jack has gained a reputation for feminist activism and the pursuit of gender justice in pay for all women. Catherine works with the team advocating for women's rights in the workplace. As part of her advocacy, she represents clients facing challenges including combating sexual harassment, pregnancy discrimination, illegal pay disparity, and other forms of workplace discrimination. In addition to being a lawyer, Catherine is an active labor and postpartum doula helping families. When she's not working with families one-on-one, she teaches childbirth education and postpartum classes for new parents across the United States.Topics covered in this episode:Understanding the Legal Landscape Around Menopause: While there are no specific laws in place directly addressing menopause currently, the symptoms women experience during perimenopause and menopause could fall under existing protections like the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), and the Civil Rights Act (Title VII). These laws provide a foundation for women to request reasonable accommodations, such as flexibility in scheduling or adjustments to the work environment.Why Workplace Accommodations are Crucial: Menopause, much like pregnancy, requires acknowledgment in the workplace. Women at midlife may face challenges due to symptoms like hot flashes, insomnia, or brain fog, which can negatively impact their work performance. Providing accommodations such as flexible hours or temperature control can help women continue to excel in their careers.The Fight for the Menopause Workplace Fairness Act: Modeled after the recently passed Pregnant Workers Fairness Act (PWFA), this new proposed menopause protective legislation seeks to ensure that menopause-related symptoms receive the same protections as pregnancy, helping to protect women's rights in the workplace.Take Action and Start the Conversation: Women need to advocate for themselves. This starts with awareness of their rights and having conversations with their employers about the accommodations they need to continue to optimally perform their jobs. Promoting Awareness and Change: As more women work longer and remain in their careers well into midlife, the need for understanding and accommodations becomes even more pressing. By advocating for change at both an individual and legislative level, women can ensure that their workplaces evolve to support them throughout all stages of life.For more insights on navigating workplace challenges during menopause and advocating for your rights, tune in to this impactful episode of The Positive Pause*.

In this episode, Laura Okafor, founder and CEO of perry, joins us for a conversation about why perimenopause needs its own awareness month, how to help women understand & support them during the menopause transition, and misconceptions around perimenopause.This September, the National Menopause Foundation, in partnership with perry, launched the inaugural National Perimenopause Awareness Month. With 5-7 online events each week, this initiative aims to expand the conversation and provide women with professional guidance, shared experiences, and resources that are often lacking.As a consumer packaged goods (CPG) veteran, with over 12 years in global innovation at Procter & Gamble (P&G), Laura's passion to create spaces for underserved women is deeply personal, inspired by her own experiences and her mother's emotional struggles during menopause. Shocked by the lack of support and resources available, Laura became passionate about offering a community-driven platform for women facing perimenopause.There are a growing number of resources and platforms for women experiencing menopause, one of which is perry, the leading global perimenopause platform. Perry provides a safe space for women to connect and share their experiences during perimenopause. With over 60,000 members, perry redefines perimenopause care holistically, offering education and support to help women navigate this pivotal stage of life.Topics covered in this episode:Supporting Women through Community: The power of community and education to provide women with the support they need.Challenging Misconceptions: Addressing distrust in healthcare providers and common misunderstandings about treatments for perimenopause.Preparing for Perimenopause: Why it's essential for women, starting around age 35, to be educated and equipped with the right tools for managing perimenopause. As Laura and perry continue to empower women through education and community, it's clear that conversations around perimenopause are long overdue. Every woman's experience is different, but with the right support and resources, they can navigate this chapter of life with confidence. By practicing understanding and empathy, we can continue to change the landscape of women's health so that no woman will go through perimenopause feeling alone or misunderstood.Connect with Laura Okafor:Websites: www.heyperry.com www.perimenopauseawareness.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/ohhelloperry  LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/perryapp  www.linkedin.com/in/lauraokafor/ 

In this episode, Cara-Michele Nether, a distinguished licensed health practitioner, author, and founder of Strength & Vitality Wellness, joins us for a conversation about the self-care crisis and the four urgent steps women aged 45 and older can't afford to ignore. Making friends with self-care consistency is more straightforward than you might think, and feeling good is the easiest way to do good. Self-care isn't just a luxury; it's a necessity for women aged 45 and older, and there are four critical, essential steps needed to transform their well-being and resilience.With 19 years of experience, she specializes in helping women aged 45-65 integrate consistent self-care routines into their daily lives, eliminating guilt and sporadic attempts at wellness. As a Licensed acupuncturist (L.Ac.), function nutrition coach (FNC) and certified personal trainer (CPT), Cara-Michele has been recognized as the Best Rated Acupuncturist in Baltimore, MD for five consecutive years. Her book, Fuel Your Engines: Strength & Vitality Are Waiting for You! guides readers through simple, effective nutrition and wellness strategies.Cara-Michele is passionate about empowering women to take control of their health and well-being. Growing up, she witnessed the detrimental effects of neglecting self-care in favor of others' needs, an experience that deeply influenced her career. She emphasizes that consistent self-care is crucial for maintaining mental and physical energy, which then enhances the quality of one's actions and relationships. A seasoned health practitioner and a third-degree black belt in Aikido, Cara-Michele is deeply committed to empowering women to control their stories, and to helping women overcome the invisible hurdle of consistent self-care and reclaim their vitality.Her philosophy teaches that after eliminating the burden of complication, guilt, and self-judgment around self-care, women feel good in their bodies and are back in the driver's seat of their lives. This shift gives them greater control over their mental and physical energy, allowing them to positively impact the relationships they cherish without regrets. Cara-Michele elaborates on four main points about self-care:Identify the ‘why' self-care is important Find the simplest thing you can to create a routine Break down your goal into small ‘mechanics' Focus on the things that you CAN controlSelf-care is more than just a trend; it's an essential practice for sustaining mental and physical well-being. Cara-Michele's insights provide a practical roadmap for integrating self-care into our daily lives. By understanding its importance, starting with small, manageable changes, and breaking down goals into actionable steps, we can build routines that nourish and energize us. Remember, taking care of yourself is not just about being able to care for others—it's about ensuring your own health and happiness for the long run.Connect with Cara-Michele:Website: www.strengthvitalitywellness.comFacebook: www.facebook.com/strengthvitalitywellnessInstagram: www.instagram.com/strengthvitalitywellness/LinkedIn:  www.linkedin.com/in/cara-michele-nether-nether-781865155YouTube: www.youtube.com/@StrengthVitality/shortsResources:Cara-Michele offers the "Self-Care Consistency Quiz" for those ready to reassess their self-care strategy. 

In this episode, Dr. Evan M. Rabinowitz, the founder of the Yao Shan Center for Chinese Medicine in Washington, DC, joins us for a conversation about acupuncture for menopause symptom treatment relief, the importance of treatment for the individual, how the body is an ecosystem and how holistic & Eastern medicine focus on addressing and balancing the entire system rather than just a single problematic issue.Acupuncture as a medical practice has existed for thousands of years and it used to be the predominant healing practice, yet the Western world still sees it as “alternative medicine.” Eastern medical practice is more than just sticking needles and mixing herbs together. Underneath lies a worldview that all living things are connected and that everything has its own course and cycle. This perspective brings a holistic approach to health and medicine, recognizing that changes in one part of the body or the external environment can cause seemingly unrelated symptoms. Dr. Rabinowitz has been in clinical practice for over 25 years, is a professor at Daoist Traditions College of Chinese Medical Arts in Asheville, NC and a lecturer at Georgetown University School of Medicine's Integrative Medicine Program in Washington, DC. He's the former Director of Chinese Herbal Medicine at the Maryland University of Integrative Health (MUIH), where he helped create the University's Masters and Doctorate programs in East Asian Medicine during his eight-year tenure. He also taught and supervised Chinese herbal medicine at the Academy for Five Element Acupuncture in Gainesville, FL. He is a graduate of the George Washington University (B.A.), Traditional Acupuncture Institute (M.Ac.) and Maryland University of Integrative Health (D.Ac.). Dr. Rabinowitz maintains an active teaching schedule, offering continuing education for practitioners online and in-person across the US and internationally.Dr. Rabinowitz's goal is to see each person as unique and whole, and offer to them individualized, compassionate care for both chronic and acute pain. He has specialty training in gynecology seeing a broad range conditions throughout the lifecycle, including painful or irregular periods, fibroids and cysts (including PCOS), endometriosis and menopause related issues. In this episode, Dr. Rabinowitz discusses:The history and definition of acupunctureEastern medicine's approach to and treatment options for menopauseUnderstanding menopause from a holistic, empowering perspectiveFinding and receiving individualized treatment by a qualified, licensed practitionerDr. Rabinowitz also shares an empowering perspective for women: since puberty, our bodies have been working to sustain and bring new life. With menopause, our body's energies and systems shift to sustain and nourish just our own life. This is an important and significant time for a woman, and there's a unique power that comes with it.Tune in to this enlightening episode to gain a deeper understanding of acupuncture and how Eastern medicine offers a holistic, empowering approach to managing menopause and overall health.Connect with Dr. Evan M. Rabinowitz:Website: https://evanrabinowitz.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/evanrabinowitzseminars Instagram: https://instagram.com/yaoshancm

In this episode, Rebekah Rotstein, NCPT, joins us for a conversation about the unique health challenges women face at midlife particularly regarding bone health and osteoporosis, and ways in which women can maintain and build bone health, muscle strength and muscle strength.Rebekah Rotstein, a leading expert in Pilates, bone health, and movement education, is the founder of Buff Bones®, a medically endorsed exercise method focused on bone and joint health. Buff Bones® offers on-demand programming, online coaching, and professional training at esteemed institutions like Johns Hopkins Rehabilitation Network. With trained instructors in over 30 countries and free public education webinars through UCLA Health, Rebekah is a global advocate for bone health. She also shares valuable tips, exercises, and information through social media.Rebekah's journey began as a ballet dancer, leading her to work in the Sports Medicine department at Smith College as a student athletic trainer in 1994. She later trained and certified in the Pilates method. After being diagnosed with osteoporosis at the age of 28, she was motivated to advocate for others with low bone mass and to provide innovative education and programming.Rebekah serves on the Ambassador Leadership Council for the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation (BHOF) and has partnered with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office of Women's Health. She also contributes to the Bone Health Working Group for the Society for Women's Health Research (SWHR) and co-authored the 2021 recommendations published in the Journal for Women's Health.In recent years, Pilates has significantly increased in popularity, particularly among women. This isn't a surprise, given the numerous benefits of Pilates, which include refining movement, increasing range of motion, improving breathing, enhancing flexibility, core control, balance, and even cognitive function. For many women who find traditional gyms and weight training intimidating, Pilates offers a more approachable and inclusive form of exercise. In this episode, we learn more about Pilates, the Buff Bones® program and explore its role in bone health and how it benefits individuals with osteoporosis.We can lose 3-5% of our muscle mass each decade after age 30 if we aren't active. We also loose bone mass in our early 30s and we reach our peak bone mass at age 30-35. And, once we hit menopause, we can lose 20-25% of our bone mass. So, it's important to take some action now because the lack of action is destined to lead to decline of bone mass that could potentially lead to fractures down the road.In this episode, Rebekah discusses:Tips for midlife women to maintain bone density and prevent osteoporosisExercises we can do to improve our bone health, balance and mobilityAddressing joint pain, stiffness and fascia pain through strength training and movementBenefits of somatic and internal practices and improving interoceptionSometimes, we think we're doing everything right, but still don't feel any better. Rebekah emphasizes that while Pilates is excellent for holistic health, especially for bone and muscle development, it should be complemented with other forms of exercise like cardio and strength training. Nutrition and internal balance also play important roles in overall physical and mental health. Start with activities that are enjoyable and seek professional guidance and accountability to stay consistent. These elements are vital for achieving and maintaining optimal health.Connect with Rebekah Rotstein, NCPT:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebekah-rotsteinFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebekah.rotsteinInstagram: https://www.i

In this episode, Dr. Samantha Dunham joins us for a conversation on the crisis around menopausal care as often, women experience menopausal symptoms without understanding what's happening and without knowing where to go for help.Dr. Samantha Dunham is a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist (OB/GYN), a certified menopause practitioner, and the co-director of the Center for Midlife Health and Menopause at NYU Langone Health. She's also a Clinical Associate Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine. Dr. Dunham practices general gynecology and preventive women's health, with a special focus on perimenopause and menopause and their roles in disease development. At the Center for Midlife Health and Menopause, she educates patients on what to expect during perimenopause and menopause and collaborates with them to develop treatment plans tailored to their symptoms and goals.Menopause is a unique and individual experience. Women experience different symptoms at different stages of their lives, and they're affected by factors such as ethnicity, genetics, nutrition, diet, exercise, and fitness. Symptoms can include mood changes, sleep disturbances, hot flashes, joint pains, weight changes, brain fog, heart palpitations and more, and can last for up to ten years. In this episode, Dr. Dunham discusses:The need for holistic and integrative medical care for women in midlifeDiagnosis of and education about perimenopauseDifferent hormonal, non-hormonal and complimentary treatments available for the symptoms of menopause and perimenopause How women should advocate for themselves to receive the integrative medical care they need, including when they are dismissed when trying to talk with their healthcare provider about what they believe are menopausal symptomsThe women who see Dr. Dunham range from those experiencing symptoms to those who want to know more about what to expect during menopause. The unpredictability of menopause is what drives all of them want to understand the changes happening in their bodies. Listen to this very informative episode to learn more about how menopause might affect you and the medical care you can and should seek to receive to help you navigate and manage your health at midlife to optimize your well-being.Connect with Dr. Samantha Dunham:Bio: https://nyulangone.org/doctors/1124045802/samantha-m-dunham Website: https://nyulangone.org/care-services/center-for-midlife-health-menopause LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthadunham Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/NYULangoneFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/NYULangoneYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/nyulmc/custom

In this episode, we talk about the balance of physical movement and mental clarity, and how they lead to emotional balance and help you set and implement your goals. with guest Sonia Satra.Sonia Satra, certified Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) Practitioner, is an executive coach, author and mind-body thought leader who specializes in personal transformation by integrating the mind, body, and emotion to create lasting change. Formerly an onscreen and stage actress, she had a deep desire to do something more, something that helps and impacts others. This led her to getting her coaching certificate, and at a pivotal moment when she had to choose between an acting role or a speaking gig, she chose the one that fulfilled her.Sonia is the founder & CEO of Moticise, a program that helps participants move their whole self – mind, body, and heart – toward the thing they want most. With seven purposeful questions guided around a specific goal, it helps determine a specific action item they can take. It uses physical movement to help think through larger challenges and goals.The balance of our mind, body, and emotions is incredibly important for our overall well-being. We need to be fulfilled by a purpose and secure in our identity. This requires asking ourselves intentional questions and making some changes in our life, sometimes even difficult ones.In this episode, Sonia discusses:The courage to changeWhy people go through career changes in midlifeWhy she went through her own career changeHow to define our identity and fulfilling our purposeListen to this insightful episode to learn more about the balance of our whole wellbeing, and the importance of living a purposeful life. And remember, when you're stuck on something, sometimes you just need to get up and move.Connect with Sonia Satra:Website: https://www.soniasatra.com   Facebook: https://facebook.com/soniasatramoticise/  Instagram: @soniasatra_moticiseLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/soniasatra1  Twitter: @soniasatraYouTube: https://youtube.com/user/motivationalsonia 

In this episode, we focus on the importance of sleep and how aging & menopause can affect our sleep habits with guest, Dr. Whitney Roban, PhD.Dr. Roban is a renowned sleep expert, author, and founder of Solve Our Sleep, a one-stop shop for family, educational, and corporate sleep needs, offering various sleep supports via her family sleep private practice, her educational sleep consulting, and her corporate sleep wellness programming. Dr. Roban's mission is to provide the sleep education and support we need not only to survive but to thrive. Her training and experience as a Clinical Psychologist bring a wealth of expertise to the conversation.Dr. Roban is a member of the National Menopause Foundation's Medical Advisory Committee (MAC). She's a sought-after presenter and resident sleep expert to corporations, schools, hotels, spas, and wellness companies. She's also been featured in national media such as The New York Times, CNN, The TODAY Show, NBC News, ABC News, Fox News, Forbes, and Rolling Stone.This episode delves into the complexities of sleep patterns, especially during the menopausal phase, where women can experience hot flashes, night sweats, and other symptoms that can disrupt sleep. Dr. Roban offers practical insights and strategies for building good sleep habits at every stage of life and shares the benefits of getting personalized support.In this episode, Dr. Roban discusses:Why our sleep habits change over the years as we ageWhat we can do to improve sleep habitsWhy sleep is so important to our overall healthConnect with Dr. Whitney Roban, PhD:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitney-roban-ph-d-6039b25a/Instagram: https://instagram.com/solveoursleepFacebook: https://facebook.com/solveoursleepWebsite: https://www.solveoursleep.com/ 

In this episode, we focus on heart health and menopause, and how we can be proactive in keeping our hearts healthy as we age with guest Michelle Routhenstein.Michelle is the owner and president of Entirely Nourished LLC, a specialized private practice in nutrition counseling and consulting focused on the prevention and management of heart disease. Using a science-based and holistic approach, she helps enhance women's heart health by addressing cardiometabolic risk factors and sharing how to decrease the likelihood of cardiovascular issues. She's committed to educating individuals on nurturing their hearts for healthy and thriving lives and adopts a dynamic perspective on nutrition that addresses the root causes of chronic diseases, safeguarding individuals' hearts for longevity.After recognizing the shared struggles of preparing meals that are not only nutritious but also delicious and enjoyable, Michelle wrote "The Truly Easy Heart Healthy Cookbook" to help others prepare healthy meals with a few simple ingredients. The passion that drove her to write this book is the same passion that drives her to keep on telling people to take ownership of their health, and that's evident throughout this episode.Michelle serves as a member of the Forbes Health advisory board, is acknowledged as a thought leader and expert in the field of heart disease management and prevention, and is a member of the National Menopause Foundation's Medical Advisory Committee (MAC). She's delivered numerous lectures on heart health to diverse audiences and has been cited in reputable journals as well as national media including Medical News Today, Fox News, Forbes Health, Livestrong, Eating Well, Health and VeryWell. Our health journey is incredibly unique. We have different diets that work for us, different medical backgrounds, lifestyles, and habits. If you add in the changes women's bodies go through during menopause, it can be overwhelming. The important step is to understand your health and make small changes over time. These can add up to help prevent further complications.In this episode, Michelle:Encourages us to measure the risk factors for our heart health.Explains how menopause increases women's risk of heart disease.Shares the importance of nutrition for heart health.Breaks down some of the misconceptions about a heart-healthy diet.Connect with Michelle Routhenstein, MS, RD, CDCES, CDNLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-routhenstein-ms-rd-cde-cdn-362aaa21/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heart.health.nutritionist/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/entirelynourished/Website: http://www.entirelynourished.com

In this episode, we discuss how important our pelvic floor is to our overall health with guest Ingrid Harm-Ernandes. Many women experience symptoms in the pelvic region during menopause. These are known as genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) and are often not discussed with women as they transition through menopause.Ms. Harm-Ernandes is a physical therapist, board certified in Women's Health (WCS) and Pelvic Floor Biofeedback who has been specializing in women's health for 27 years. During her 20-year tenure at Duke University Health System, she treated a wide variety of pelvic patients in the Urogynecology and Physical Therapy (PT) clinics. In addition to her role as the Co-Director and a mentor for new Pelvic PTs in the Duke Women's Health Physical Therapy Residency Program, she was also responsible for the Women's Health team program development and participated in Pelvic Floor Disorder Network (PFDN) research projects.One of the frustrating things Ingrid encountered during her practice was how it would take patients experiencing symptoms decades before they would see her and get the help they needed. As a pelvic health PT specialist, she has addressed a myriad of pelvic health conditions that dramatically impact women's lives. She realized that there is a lack of education in pelvic health on both the practitioner's and patient's side. In 2021 she published her book, The Musculoskeletal Mystery - How To Solve Your Pelvic Floor Symptoms, which helps to better educate patients and practitioners about women's bodies, pelvic health conditions they may suffer, and what pelvic PT is all about. Her book contains guidance and support for those suffering from the physically, emotionally stressful, and often undiagnosed, pelvic floor disorders, pelvic pain, irritable bowel syndrome, endometriosis, Interstitial Cystitis, prostatitis, pain or discomfort during sex, and incontinence.Ingrid is a member of the National Menopause Foundation's Medical Advisory Committee (MAC). She is passionate about demystifying and destigmatizing this topic by providing individuals with the knowledge they need to advocate for themselves and get proper pelvic care. In this episode, Ingrid talks about:The importance of our pelvic floorThe effects of menopause on the pelvic floorThe importance of holistic health during menopauseThe value and importance of incorporating healthy habits and practices from an early age.Connect with Ingrid Harm-Ernandes, PT WCS, BCB-PMDLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ingrid-harm-ernandes-5057773b/Instagram: @harmernandesFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/ingrid.harmernandes.71/Additional informational link:American Physical Therapy Association

In this episode we discuss how physical activity affects the quality of life of women going through menopause, with guest Maria Luque, Ph.D. Dr. Luque is a menopause fitness expert, health science professor, U.S. Air Force veteran, and busy mom. Her vision is to help all women in menopause become stronger, healthier, saner, and much more open to fun and adventure. Dr. Luque, Ph.D., is a health educator and fitness expert with 20+ years of experience. She received both her Master of Science in Health Education and her Ph.D. in Health Sciences from Trident University International. She is a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES), ACE Certified Personal Trainer and ACE Fitness Nutrition Specialist. In addition, she is an IDEA Fitness Association presenter & fitness expert and teaches workshops for fitness professionals. She leads group and personal training, is a contributing writer at IDEA Fitness Journal & American Fitness, and teaches at the College of Health and Human Services at Trident University International.With her expertise in menopause and fitness, Dr. Luque helps empower women during peri/menopause in a weight neutral, evidence-based way, to help cut through the misinformation.Dr. Luque is also the founder of Fitness in Menopause, which provides different health & fitness programs specifically for menopausal women, all designed to improve quality of life by helping women tap into their own wisdom and self-knowledge.In this episode, Dr. Luque talks about:Focusing on improving our quality of life, and how it's different for each womanThe challenges women face as they pursue fitness during menopauseHow women can be supported and empowered during menopauseThere's no universal fitness journey. A woman's approach to fitness should support her needs, lifestyle, and goals and adjust to the changes in her body. Connect with Dr. Maria LuqueWebsite: https://www.drmarialuque.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmarialuque/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drmarialuque/ Fitness in Menopause: https://www.fitnessinmenopause.com/about

Today's episode of the Positive Pause is with Meera Bhogal. Meera, who is lives in the UK, is a menopause expert, personal trainer & fitness coach and provides training, classes & advocacy on the topic of menopause throughout the UK and around the globe. She is passionate about  raising awareness of menopause, especially in South Asian communities, where it is not spoken about openly. She developed the Don't Pause for Menopause, a successful bespoke 8-week program designed to coach perimenopausal, menopausal and postmenopausal women. The program is led by nutrition and wellbeing professionals, and participants learn how to manage their fitness, nutrition and lifestyle to feel confident, strong and happy. Meera is also the Founder & Recipe Creator of MeerasMadeFromScratch.co.uk, and its products, recipes and programs have been featured in several magazines, newsletters, blogs and other media forms globally. In addition, Meera is Founder of Oak Lee Montessori School in the UK, which she opened in 2010 using her expertise as a practitioner for 20 years holding both a Montessori Diploma and a NNEB Diploma (now known as a Diploma in Childcare and Education), nursery nurse, and being a mother of 2 girls (now grown), and her ongoing passion for children's health and wellbeing, to design a unique environment and create a methodology that has the Montessori ethos at its heart.In this episode, Meera talks about:Her personal menopause journey struggles and wanting to help education other women on their own journey regarding diet, fitness & moreGiving women a choice on managing their perimenopause & menopause symptomsEncouraging women to learn about menopause and their value in society post-menopauseThe importance of learning about the changes and needs of your body, and the importance of community.Every woman's experience with menopause is unique -- the symptoms and the time it starts as well as the length will be different for each individual. There are also cultural differences surrounding menopause, and ethnicity can be a large factor in a woman's experience.Meera advocates for giving women power during their perimenopause / menopause journey. Giving women the knowledge and tools they need to identify and decide what's best for them. While free and easy to access resources on menopause aren't as available as we'd like, we have more than we've had in the past.Connect with Meera Bhogal:Website: https://meerabhogal.com Meera's Menopause Program: https://meerasmadefromscratch.co.uk/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meerabhogal/?hl=enLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meerabhogal/?originalSubdomain=uk

Today's episode of the Positive Pause is with Dr. Mache Seibel. Dr. Seibel is known for his expertise in helping menopausal women regain control over their lives, work, and relationships. With an impressive 25-year tenure as a Harvard Medical School faculty member, he's not only shaped the field, but has also made a significant impact as the Founding Editor of The Hot Years™ magazine. author of the best-selling books, The Estrogen Window and The Estrogen Fix, and Editor of the #1 digital magazine for midlife women HotYearsMag.com. His latest book is Working Through Menopause: The Impact on Women, Businesses and The Bottom Line. Before transitioning to focus on menopause, Dr. Mache was a leading expert in infertility who performed some of the first In vitro fertilization successes in the United States. He's a recipient of numerous awards, recognizing his contributions in speaking, writing, media coverage, research, and even music.Despite the vast strides made in medical research, there's still a significant gap in our understanding of women's health.In this episode, Dr. Seibel delves into:Dispelling common misconceptions about menopause.The workplace challenges faced by women navigating menopause.Practical changes to support women during this transition.Dr. Seibel also shares invaluable guidance on how women can approach menopause confidently, what women can and should do to prepare for menopause, and how to initiate conversations that answer their questions with their healthcare providers. Tune in for a wealth of insights on managing menopause in the workplace and beyond.Connect with Dr. SeibelWebsite: https://drmache.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doctorseibel  FB: https://www.facebook.com/TheHotYears  Twitter: https://twitter.com/drmacheseibel  

Today's episode of the Positive Pause is with Josselyne Herman-Saccio. For more than 30 years, Josselyne has been leading transformative programs and coaching people who experience themselves stuck or "messablewith" in certain areas. She has worked with and impacted over 200,000 people directly in the areas of business and career, relationships and family, communication and self-expression, fulfilling vision, resolving conflict, and overall “well” being. In addition, since 2008, as the founder of the nonprofit organization, United Global Shift​, she has worked with leaders from more than 20 countries.Josselyne penned the concept “Unmessablewith” which means being able to create at any moment instead of just reacting. It means that no matter what you're dealing with, no matter the person or the circumstance, you're able to create at any time. Discovery is a very powerful place. That's where breakthroughs happen. – Josselyne Herman-SaccioIn this episode, Josselyne shares the following practices she applies to be able to create the life she wants:Breaking down false mindsetsCreating vs. managing your lifeUtilizing calendars as a tool to createEvery decade of my life has been more exciting than the previous one. – Claire GillShe also shares stories throughout the years, how she constantly made decisions that led to her creating the life she wanted. And if there's anything Josselyne can leave you with, it's this message: get clear about what you want, then act on it.Fun fact: In 1993, Josselyne's pop group, Boy Krazy, fulfilled her lifelong dream when their debut single, "That's What Love Can Do", knocked Whitney Houston's "I Will Always Love You" out of the #1 spot on the Billboard Top 40 Charts. This is when Boy Krazy joined the ranks of the Beatles and Elvis Presley as artists whose debut single went #1, truly a dream come true.To hear all the wisdom and practical advice Josselyne shares, listen to the full episode. Connect with Josselyne:The Art of Being UnmessablewithJHA ManagementLinkedInInstagramCalendar Workshop

In today's episode of The Positive Pause, Bonnie Tandy Leblang, National Menopause Foundation Board Member, leads the conversation on the fun of life with guest, Silvia Baldini.Silvia is a branding expert and an Italian-born chef known for her work with popular Italian ingredients. She's knowledgeable and passionate about food and wellness, and she holds the belief that wholesome cooking and traditional wisdom combined with technology will be the key to living a happy and healthy life. Silvia is an exceptional and passionate speaker, storyteller, educator, vibrant creator, product developer, and food entrepreneur.Silvia approaches life with an excitement that comes across in this episode. She applies this in her cooking and her approach that it should go beyond just wanting to feed yourself. Her love for food has led her to look for and learn about the best quality ingredients she can use to create the best dishes and the best experiences.  Her pursuit of quality ingredients led to some of her most exciting work, like launching The Secret Ingredient Girls, developing Coconut X Oil (which will re-launch in September 2023), and collaborating with Grace Farms to create a line of locally manufactured products with ethically sourced ingredients.When it comes to her experience with menopause, and those of the women around her, Silvia is frustrated at how little it's talked about and how little women actually know, and calls for more research and education to go behind it. She believes that it shouldn't stop women from living their best life, and that products can be developed to help women during this time.Important LinksSilvia Baldini WebsiteThe Secret Ingredient GirlsGrace Farms

In today's episode of The Positive Pause, we get to hear a relatable discussion on some of the shared struggles of women: low self-image, comparison, practicing self-compassion, going through menopause. Claire is joined by Dr. Ellen Albertson.Dr. Albertson is also known as The Midlife Whisperer™. She is a Psychologist, Registered Dietitian, Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach, Mindful Self-compassion Teacher, and author. She helps women transform themselves so they have energy, confidence, and clarity to make their next chapter their best chapter.In this episode, Dr. Albertson shares that there are two parts to improving our self-image: getting rid of basing our self-work on our looks and practicing self-compassion. She breaks down her research on self-compassion, what it is, how to practice it, and her discovery that in order for us to love our bodies, the only successful approach is by practicing compassion.Menopause can also be the perfect time for transformation. Though a difficult time, it's still a great time to slow down, take a pause, and take in your life, check what is and isn't working, and ask how you can take better care of yourself. It's a great opportunity to transform your entire self.Menopause is a journey and it's different for each woman, but it can be a beautiful time if we allow ourselves to go through it with compassion and take it as a time for ourselves.Important LinksNational Menopause FoundationFollow Dr. Ellen Albertson:WebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedInRock Your Midlife Podcast

Today's guest is Ann Garnier, a healthcare leader and the driving force behind Lisa Health, the creator of the Midday App for menopause and healthy aging. As co-founder and CEO, Ann has dedicated her career to improving women's health using technology. Her passion for transforming women's health after 40, coupled with her expertise in artificial intelligence and advanced technology, positions Ann as a true trailblazer in the realm of midlife women's health and menopause support.We've all heard the myths: that technology can't help midlife women, that digital health can't provide menopause support, and that it's not safe to share personal health information online. Ann Garnier is here to share the truth about women's health and technology and how it can help all of us. Acknowledging menopause as a life stage enables women to better manage their health and wellness during this time, fostering a positive, informed approach to their journey. In this episode, Garnier shares her insights on addressing menopause as a life stage. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing that every woman's experience with menopause is unique, highlighting the need for personalized guidance and support. Ann also highlights the abundance of misinformation and ineffective solutions in the menopause space. She stresses the importance of guiding women through their menopause journey with evidence-based and science-backed guidance. Garnier's dedication to accurate information and personalized support is exemplified in the development of the Midday App.Claire and Ann also discuss the importance of providing accurate information. The Midday App was developed through collaborative research with top clinical and research institutions, such as Mayo Clinic and others. The app ensures that all information provided is supported by scientific evidence. Garnier emphasizes the need to break down ageist assumptions by demonstrating the potential of technology to transform women's health in midlife.Download the Midday app from Lisa Health 

Heidi Skolnik is joining Claire on the podcast today. Considered a thought leader in nutrition, Heidi has influenced millions through her media work, writing and thriving consulting business. Heidi has been part of The Women's Sports Medicine Center at HSS for over 20 years. Her company Nutrition Conditioning, oversees the Performance Nutrition program at The Juilliard School and the School of American Ballet and she has consulted with numerous Broadway shows.Her book Whole Body Reset: Your Weight-Loss Plan for a Flat Belly, Optimum Health and a Body You'll Love at Midlife and Beyond is the topic for today's conversation.Weight gain is one of the things that affect women as they enter menopause. Heidi joined journalist and author Stephen Perrine to answer the question about why this happens. AARP staff also tested the science as part of this project. Our metabolism does not change in any significant way as we age. That's right! It's steady throughout our life. What does change is less muscle which begins declining at about age 30 and continues unless we actively work to maintain muscle. If muscle loss is the issue, what can we do about that? We are always breaking down and building back metabolically. When we are younger, building back happens quickly. As we age, the process continues but we don't build back muscle at the same rate. Part of the solution is protein timing. We need to hit 25 grams of protein at every meal to overcome the resistance to muscle-building. Heidi outlines how you can do this by adding protein at each meal since most of us consume most of our protein at the end of the day. All foods fit. Heidi explains why timing is key to your nutrition overall. The benefits impact our muscles, bone health, weight gain or loss as well as strength and balance. Staying active and functional as we age is related to keeping our muscles strong. The concept of aging is changing. That's the good news. We now know things that we can do to not just extend our lives but to also to stay active so we can do the things we want to do. Heidi shares several easy concepts that will help support a long active lifestyle. It's not an either or, it's both. Good nutrition, more muscle and staying active are part of a complete solution to aging well. She recommends thinking about fat loss and muscle maintenance and growth instead of weight loss. Learning to eat in a way that support muscle mass is a great first step. Changing habits is part of the solution. Part of the solution is making changes in movement, nutrition, and lifestyle. Addressing things like portion control, moving more, adding resistance training, and making sure you add more protein and fiber to each meal will all make positive impacts to your health. Start where you are. Heidi encourages all of us to focus on the process and the behavior. We have control of our choices each day and making incremental changes in those choices can result in better health outcomes. If you're looking for specifics about how-to the book is a great place to start. There are things all of us can do to feel good. Resources: Whole Body Reset BookHeidi's WebsiteHeidi on InstagramSupport the show

Joining me on the podcast today is Jennifer Garrison PhD. Jennifer is an assistant professor at the Buck Institute for Research on Aging and also holds appointments in the Department of Cellular and Molecular Pharmacology at University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) and the Davis School of Gerontology at the University of Southern California.Dr. Garrison's research focuses on understating how chemical communication between the brain and other tissues influence aging. Running a research lab is just one part of Dr. Garrison's work. Understanding aging on a molecular level is a key part of her work at the Buck Institute. The goal is to understand the underlying causes of aging as a way to tackle multiple diseases at the same time. “The goal is to increase health span . . . increase that period of time when you are healthy.”  Jennifer Garrison Jennifer explains that she believes that the brain is the key player for systemic aging. She explains how the brain is controlling what's happening, by listening to and recording feedback from all the organs in your body. Dr. Garrison organized the International Scientific Conference Focused on Reproductive Aging. As we make progress extending healthy longevity, reproductive longevity must also be addressed. It's not just a physical issue but affects gender equality as well. A goal is to get rid of menopause and if that's not possible, then to extend it until much later in life. There's a lack of understanding about why women experience menopause at all. Jennifer paints the big picture that is fascinating. Did you know that only humans and a few species of whales even experience menopause? The research is underfunded, and Dr. Garrison is advocating that scientists and clinicians to talk and collaborate about these issues. The male body has been the baseline. Researching women's bodies is still underfunded and Dr. Garrison along with organizations like the Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation are trying to bring awareness and the need for more research. Funding is key to bringing the scientists and physicians together who can begin to answer fundamental questions about women's bodies and reproductive health. What should every woman know about reproductive aging? The ovary isn't just for fertility. It produces endocrine hormones and other chemicals that are essential for general health that have nothing to do with fertility. Those functions are what Dr. Garrison wants to learn how they can be extended to improve overall health. Reproductive aging centers around equality. Every aspect of a woman's life is affected by the fact that she will go through a decline when menopause begins. Dr. Garrison wants this to be a conversation that's reframed with a holistic point of view. It's a unique time in history to be able to marry reproductive health with longevity. Ambassadors are welcome to have conversations about women's health and the incredible work being done by Dr. Garrison and others. Connect with Dr. Garrison: Buck InstituteSupport the show

Ageism is real and we all likely know someone who has experienced it. In this episode, Claire Gill speaks with Patti Temple Rocks, author of I'm Not Done Yet: It's Time to Talk About Ageism in the Workplace. In her close to four decades in the communications business, Patti has held senior leadership positions in four different areas of the industry: Public Relations, Advertising, Corporate, and Start-Up. Patti is known as an inspirational leader, innovative thinker, problem-solver, growth driver, passionate brand steward and both an agent for change and a counselor during that change. She was shocked to see her female professional mentors being slowly edged out of their leadership positions once they reached a certain age. And then it happened to her. The experienced inspired her to write about what really happens to women and men in business when they are impacted by ageism and why it's bad for business. She and Claire discussed how ageism impacts so many areas of women's lives at menopause.Support the show

In this episode, National Menopause Foundation Board Member, Bonnie Tandy Leblang, RD, interviews fellow nutritionists and authors of THE MENOPAUSE DIET PLAN: A Natural Guide to Managing Hormones, Health, and Happiness. Hillary Wright and Elizabeth Ward, registered dietitians and good friends since college, bring more than 60 years of combined knowledge as health professionals - and their experiences as post-menopausal women - to deliver a comprehensive, customizable, plant-based eating and lifestyle plan, combining evidence-based advice with real-life circumstances and personal experience. Ms. Tandy Leblang was able to talk with them a bit about their book and what they hoped it will do to change how women experience menopause.Support the show (https://www.nationalmenopausefoundation.kindful.com/?campaign=1034852)

There are many physical changes women experience at menopause. Some of these changes can be difficult to acknowledge and understand. In this episode of The Positive Pause we speak with Dr. Heather L. Johnson, an actively practicing gynecologist and author of two books, who, after delivering more than 3,500 babies over 40 years, recently retired as an obstetrician. Dr. Johnson shares recommendations on what to discuss with your gynecologist as you approach menopause and how to discuss even the most awkward questions you may have. She also shares some of the most common questions she gets from her patients. For more information and insights from Dr. Johnson, check out our “Inspirational Insights” section. You can also learn more and connect with Dr. Johnson via her website: https://askdrheatherjohnson.com/. And be sure to check out her book too, What They Don't Tell You about Menopause: A Gynecologist's Unofficial Guide to Premenopausal, Perimenopausal and Postmenopausal Life.Support the show (https://www.nationalmenopausefoundation.kindful.com/?campaign=1034852)

For about 75% of women, hot flashes and night sweats are a fact of life during perimenopause and menopause. Entrepreneur Lara Smith was inspired to create a beautiful and comfortable sleepwear product to help her sister who suffered through night sweats caused by cancer treatment. The result, Lusomè, is beautifully designed sleepwear using the most innovative moisture management technology possible for naturally blended fabrics. We hear from Lara about how she was able to use her network of contacts and her expertise in retail. We also discuss Lara's efforts to give back to women in need via Sweet Dreams.  All listeners to the Positive Pause can use the code: MPFOUNDATION20 to get 20% off their purchase of Lusomè.Support the show (https://www.nationalmenopausefoundation.kindful.com/?campaign=1034852)

It's estimated that more than 100,000 Americans give birth in their 40s each year, a number that has been steadily growing. It's wonderful that the option of having children or adopting children is available to women later in life than was previously the norm. But, it's still not the norm. For those who have become mom's later in life, this episode of the Positive Pause is for you. Our guest is Robin Gorman Newman, founder of Motherhood Later….Than Sooner - https://motherhoodlater.com/meet-robin.Support the show (https://www.nationalmenopausefoundation.kindful.com/?campaign=1034852)

In this episode National Menopause Foundation board member, Susan Randall, MSN, FNP-BC, talks with Claire Gill, CEO of the National Menopause Foundation about osteoporosis and bone health. Susan is former head of education for the National Osteoporosis Foundation.  All women begin to lose bone at a faster rate at menopause due to a decrease in estrogen. Our experts discuss what you need to know about how to stay bone strong. If you want more information about menopause and bone health please click HERE to view our webinar with Susan Randall. Support the show (https://www.nationalmenopausefoundation.kindful.com/?campaign=1034852)

In this episode we discuss how women should consider adjusting their exercise routines to better respond to physical and mental changes at midlife. Fitness expert and best selling author Debra Atkinson share tips on how to listen to your body and develop an exercise routine that best meets your needs given what stage of menopause you may be in and what symptoms you're experiencing. Learn more about Debra at www.flippingfifty.com.Support the show

In this first episode of The Positive Pause, we interview Dr. Andrea Singer, MD, FACP, CCD, associate professor and chief, Division of Women's Primary Care and director of bone densitometry, in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital in Washington, D.C., about women's sexual health at menopause. We discuss physical changes for women during menopause, treatments for physical symptoms related to sexual health at menopause and how women can approach their doctor or healthcare provider about questions or concerns they may have about sexual health.Support the show (https://www.nationalmenopausefoundation.kindful.com/?campaign=1034852)