The Hotflash inc podcast

Send a textIn this episode of the Hot Flash inc Podcast, host Annemarie McQueen sits down with Dr Stuart Phillips, a professor of Kinesiology at McMaster University, to explore the intricacies of exercise, aging, and nutrition, particularly focusing on the impact of these factors during perimenopause and menopause. They discuss common societal pressures and misinformation women face around exercise and health during midlife, emphasizing the importance of consistent and practical workout routines. Dr Phillips debunks myths about hormone therapy, estrogen, and muscle health, and offers evidence-based recommendations for maintaining physical function and overall well-being. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that sheds light on the real science behind muscle health, the benefits of physical activity, and practical advice for women navigating this challenging life stage.Topics Covered:Menopause and exercise challengesStarting the conversation with Dr PhillipsThe importance of consistency in exerciseSocial media’s impact on fitness adviceDebunking the heavy-lifting mythProgressive overload explainedBalancing exercise and lifeThe benefits of muscle healthThe importance of health span and physical mobilityBone health: hormone therapy vs. activityExercise and mental health benefitsHormone therapy and muscle mass: the evidenceFascia and connective tissue: the overlooked componentsInactivity and its impact on agingSupplements: creatine, protein, and moreWeight-loss drugs and muscle loss concernsLongevity and lifestyle: a balanced perspectiveAdvice for women in perimenopauseWhere to find Dr Stuart PhillipsX: @mackinprofInstagram: @mackinprofLinkedIn @stuartphillipsFacebook: SMPPh.D Sponsor shoutout: Has your doctor told you that you’re too young for peri/menopause, but you know you just don’t feel like yourself? You’re not alone – perimenopause can start earlier than you think. That’s why MenoLabs is here, to support you with a range of products and the information you need to confidently speak up and get the care you deserve. They also offer science-backed solutions like their best-seller, MenoFit, a probiotic designed to help relieve symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats and more – all while supporting your overall health and wellness. Don’t settle for less during this season of your life. Visit Menolabs.com and get the support you need today! Hotflash inc listeners get 20% off with code: HOTFLASH20Join the Hotflash inc perimenoposse: Web: hotflashinc.comNewsletter: Hotflash inc. on SubstackTikTok: @hotflashincInstagram: @hotflashincX: @hotflashinc Episode website: Hotflashinc Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | YouTube | Substack See hotflashinc.com/privacy-policy for privacy information

Send a textWelcome to the Hotflash inc Podcast! I’m Ann Marie McQueen, journalist and founder of Hotflash Inc, and today I’m joined by Dr Tiffany Duffing, PhD, a licensed clinical psychologist, US Army Veteran, and co-founder of GI Psychology. Dr Duffing is an expert in the gut–brain connection, integrative therapy and clinical hypnosis for GI disorders, chronic pain, insomnia, and anxiety. There is such an intersection with everything we are facing in perimenopause, so stay tuned as we dive into the science behind one of the most  practical tools for healing.HighlightsDr Duffing’s path to GI Psychology and clinical hypnosisOvercoming skepticism: “If you don’t show me the data, I’m gonna go collect some information.”Dr Duffing’s personal experience with gut issues and family historyThe emotional and mental toll of GI distressPerimenopause, menopause, and the gut: what the research saysThe gut–brain connection explained: enteric nervous system, vagus nerve, and moreHow stress, trauma, and hypervigilance affect gut healthThe power of clinical hypnosis and how it worksSelf-hypnosis, apps, and how to find a qualified providerDr Duffing’s advice: “If you have physical distress, Google Scholar that and see how clinical hypnosis can help. Boom.”Sponsor shoutout: Has your doctor told you that you’re too young for peri/menopause, but you know you just don’t feel like yourself? You’re not alone – perimenopause can start earlier than you think. That’s why MenoLabs is here, to support you with a range of products and the information you need to confidently speak up and get the care you deserve. They also offer science-backed solutions like their best-seller, MenoFit, a probiotic designed to help relieve symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats and more – all while supporting your overall health and wellness. Don’t settle for less during this season of your life. Visit Menolabs.com and get the support you need today! Hotflash inc listeners get 20% off with code: HOTFLASH20Where to find Dr Tiffany:Website: gipsychology.comIG: duffing4gastrohealthLinkedIn: Dr. DuffingAmerican Society of Clinical Hypnosis (ASCH)Society for Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis (SCEH)Evia App for Hot FlashesJoin the Hotflash inc perimenoposse: Web: hotflashinc.comNewsletter: Hotflash inc. on SubstackTikTok: @hotflashincInstagram: @hotflashincX: @hotflashinc Episode website: Hotflashinc Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | YouTube | Substack See hotflashinc.com/privacy-policy for privacy information

Send a textThis week on the Hotflash inc Podcast, I’m talking with board-certified pelvic floor physical therapist Dr Sara Reardon, aka The Vagina Whisperer. With 650,000 followers on Instagram and 8 million TikTok views, Sara has become a trusted source for breaking down pelvic floor health in a way that’s clear, empowering and, yes, even fun.Her upcoming book, FLOORED: A Woman’s Guide to Pelvic Floor Health at Every Age and Stage (out June 10 from HarperCollins Park Row), is an honest, comprehensive guide to the often-ignored foundation of our bodies. In our conversation, we get into how stress, childbirth, perimenopause and menopause affect the pelvic floor — and how we can take back our strength and vitality at every age.From the perils of peeing too fast to disappearing orgasms, Dr Sara brings science, compassion and truth to a topic most of us were never taught about.Episode highlights:Understanding Stress and Pelvic Floor TensionIntro to the Hot Flash Ink PodcastPelvic Floor 101: Anatomy and FunctionPelvic Floor Health During PerimenopauseThe Role of Hormones and StressSponsor shoutout: Has your doctor told you that you’re too young for peri/menopause, but you know you just don’t feel like yourself? You’re not alone – perimenopause can start earlier than you think. That’s why MenoLabs is here, to support you with a range of products and the information you need to confidently speak up and get the care you deserve. They also offer science-backed solutions like their best-seller, MenoFit, a probiotic designed to help relieve symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats and more – all while supporting your overall health and wellness. Don’t settle for less during this season of your life. Visit Menolabs.com and get the support you need today! Hotflash inc listeners get 20% off with code: HOTFLASH20This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.Where to find Dr Sara Preorder FLOORED by Dr Sara Reardon (HarperCollins, June 10) Instagram: @the.vagina.whispererWebsite: thevagwhisperer.comTikTok: @thevaginawhispererJoin the Hotflash inc perimenoposse: Web: hotflashinc.comNewsletter: Hotflash inc. on SubstackTikTok: @hotflashincInstagram: @hotflashincX: @hotflashinc Episode website: Hotflashinc Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | YouTube | Substack See hotflashinc.com/privacy-policy for privacy information

Dr. Heidi Lescanec, a seasoned naturopathic physician, shares her insightful approach to navigating perimenopause and menopause. She introduces the concept of 'The Pink Zones,' environments that empower women in midlife. The discussion dives into the interplay between hormone health and emotional well-being, urging women to prioritize connection and self-care. Heidi also challenges outdated menopause narratives, encouraging a shift in perspective to view this transition as a transformative opportunity rather than a decline.

Send a textIn this episode, Ann Marie McQueen speaks with globally recognized strategist Dr Lydia Kostopoulos, whose work spans emerging technology, national security, and macrotrends. But it’s her deep interest in human performance and healthy aging that brings her into the perimenopause conversation.Lydia shares her experience preparing for this life phase with intention, data, and strategy – including a military-style “perimenopause game plan”. Through her Project N of 1 series and personal research, she’s built a unique, highly organized approach to symptom tracking, risk assessment, and hormone therapy prep – while emphasizing emotional and psychological resilience.What we cover:• Why Lydia created her Perimenopause Game Plan series as part of Project N of 1• Her strategic approach to tracking symptoms, health data, and preparing for hormone therapy• Insights from interviewing women across generations, disciplines, and cultures• Why mental and emotional health are critical pillars of healthy agingQuote:“If you don’t know you have choices, then you never had a choice.” – Dr Lydia KostopoulosResources & Links:Perimenopause Game Plan YouTube PlaylistDr Lydia Kostopoulos on LinkedInInstagram: @hilydiakX @lkcyberEpisode sponsor: Thanks to Menolabs for sponsoring this episode. Perimenopause can start earlier than you think. That’s why Menolabs is here to support you with trusted information and science-backed products like MenoFit, a probiotic designed to help relieve symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and more, all while supporting your overall wellness. Use code HOTFLASH20 for 20% off at menolabs.com *This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend who’s navigating big transitions. Leave a review, subscribe, and don’t forget to follow me on Instagram at @hotflashinc for daily inspiration and support in midlife and beyond.Join the Hotflash inc perimenoposse: Web: hotflashinc.comNewsletter: Hotflash inc. on SubstackTikTok: @hotflashincInstagram: @hotflashincX: @hotflashinc Episode website: Hotflashinc Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | YouTube | Substack See hotflashinc.com/privacy-policy for privacy information

Send a textAre psychedelics a missing key to personal transformation in midlife?This week, I speak with Rob Grover and Gary Logan, the founders of The Journeymen Collective, a luxury guided psilocybin retreat company based in the mountains outside Vancouver, BC. These two have helped entrepreneurs, performers, couples—and yes, many women navigating perimenopause, menopause, and midlife transitions—use guided mushroom journeys to reconnect to themselves and release emotional burdens that therapy, medication, or self-help books haven’t resolved.We talk grief, depression, anxiety, the inner critic, and how to tap into the body’s sacred intelligence when everything feels disconnected. Rob and Gary explain the difference between “tripping” and undergoing a true guided journey, and why that distinction matters so deeply for healing and growth.Highlights: “Most people who find us have done the therapy, read the books, tried the biohacking—and still feel stuck.”– Rob Grover“This isn’t about escaping—it’s about meeting yourself more deeply than ever before.” – Gary LoganHow grief led both Rob and Gary to their first journeys with magic mushrooms—and why it changed everything.Why psilocybin is not a shortcut or magic bullet, but a profound reset for the nervous system.The science, spirituality, and deep preparation that goes into their luxury retreats.Why talk therapy for 10 years often gets outpaced by 4 days of immersive guided work.A frank and beautiful discussion about anger, sadness, menopause symptoms—and how they’re often calls to listen to the body, not suppress it.Links + resources:Learn more: The Journeymen CollectiveFollow Rob and Gary on Instagram and LinkedInMentioned: Red School: Menstruality EducationResearch: MAPS – Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic StudiesUse code HOTFLASH20 for 20% off at MenoLabs.comEpisode sponsor: Thanks to Menolabs for sponsoring this episode. Use code HOTFLASH20 for 20% off at menolabs.comJoin the Hotflash inc perimenoposse: Web: hotflashinc.comNewsletter: Hotflash inc. on SubstackTikTok: @hotflashincInstagram: @hotflashincX: @hotflashinc Episode website: Hotflashinc Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | YouTube | Substack See hotflashinc.com/privacy-policy for privacy information

Join Jennifer Jefferies, a seasoned Australian naturopath known for her vibrant approach to health, as she discusses thriving through menopause. She debunks the myth that menopause is a disaster, emphasizing that adrenal burnout often lies at its core. Jen shares her ‘bare-ass minimum’ wellness plan, including the power of fun, early bedtimes, and eating close to nature. Discover why it’s essential to reclaim your health wisdom and navigate this life stage with joy and balance instead of fear.

Send a textThis podcast originally ran on July 11, 2024In this episode, host and midlife and menopause journalist Ann Marie McQueen speaks with iconic American model Kim Alexis.They explore Kim's extensive career when she dominated the modeling industry. They talk about what it was like to appear on over 500 magazine – sometimes all of them at once – and cover her journey through competitive sports, her faith, clean living, marriage and menopause.Kim shares personal stories about her transition into menopause, her choice to use hormone therapy – and the controversial delivery method of pellets – and how she navigates various health claims and misinformation prevalent in the social media age.They also discuss the impact of environmental disruptors on health and, possibly, menopause, the evolving standards of beauty and self-image in aging, and the importance of self-care, self-inquiry, adaptation and outreach in midlife.Highlights:02:32 Kim Alexis on Social Media and Going Viral03:01 Natural Beauty and Aging Gracefully06:06 The Modeling Industry Then and Now10:54 Health, Fitness, and Post-Modeling Career12:30 Navigating Nutrition and Wellness Trends21:13 Adapting to Life's Changes21:19 Skincare from the Inside Out22:32 Personal Skincare Routines23:45 Hormonal Shifts and Menopause28:33 Hormone Therapy Controversy33:21 Emotional and Soul Searching36:49 Finding Love Later in Life39:02 Advice for Reinventing Yourself42:40 Future Plans and Giving BackJoin the Hotflash inc perimenoposse: Web: hotflashinc.comNewsletter: Hotflash inc. on SubstackTikTok: @hotflashincInstagram: @hotflashincX: @hotflashinc Episode website: Hotflashinc Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | YouTube | Substack See hotflashinc.com/privacy-policy for privacy information

Send a textThis podcast originally ran on August 1, 2024You may have been hearing a lot about testosterone lately – what it is, why we need it, why we can’t get it… I’ve gone to Melbourne, Australia to ask an expert in women’s hormones across our lifespan, and one of the few people who has studied testosterone in-depth.Professor Susan Davis is a clinician researcher, consulting endocrinologist and head of the Monash University Women’s Health Research Program in Melbourne.She is going to help us to tackle the current confusion – and hype – over testosterone, armed with what she knows best: the evidence. We talk about it all: the evidence, benefits, and potential misconceptions about testosterone supplementation for women, especially during menopause and perimenopause; the difficulty in measuring testosterone accurately, the placebo effect, risks and benefits of different hormone therapies, including testosterone pellets and creams, and the critical importance of credible sources of information. Professor Davis also highlights her extensive research, including studies on the cardiovascular effects of low testosterone and the physiological impacts on women's health.Highlights:03:38 Testosterone's role in a women's hormone structure06:35 Challenges in measuring testosterone19:50 Testosterone and cardiovascular health30:02 The misleading promises of testosterone therapy32:55 The controversy surrounding pellets36:17 Breast cancer risks and hormone therapy40:15 Testosterone for menopausal symptoms42:12 The role of DHEA in hormone therapy44:49 The impact of birth control pills46:26 Navigating hormone therapy and misinformation50:50 Current research and future directions53:33 The Influence of social media on health information56:10 Conclusion and credible resourcesJoin the Hotflash inc perimenoposse: Web: hotflashinc.comNewsletter: Hotflash inc. on SubstackTikTok: @hotflashincInstagram: @hotflashincX: @hotflashinc Episode website: Hotflashinc Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | YouTube | Substack See hotflashinc.com/privacy-policy for privacy information

Send a textThis podcast originally ran on October 15, 2024.Hotflash inc founder and host Ann Marie McQueen sits down with Dr Leigh Erin Connealy, a leading figure in integrative medicine, known for her unique approach in combining conventional and alternative treatments in addressing chronic illnesses and cancer. Dr Connealy is the founder of the Center for New Medicine and the Cancer Center for Healing in Irvine, California and author of two books: The Cancer Revolution and the Be Perfectly Healthy. She is also co-founder of leading hormone brand, Raena Health.She talks about why so many people are getting cancer, how to make chemotherapy more effective and less lethal, why prevention needs to be the focus. For Dr Connealy, the question we need to be asking: what is going on with your terrain, and why is it making cancer? Everything from the food we eat to the chemicals we surround ourselves with to the emotional work we aren’t doing is causing this. And find out what she thinks our number one risk is – why and what we can do about it. (It’s probably not what you are thinking)Dr Connealy wants us all to know that in most cases, cancer is 10 years in the making. She has really good guidance for women considering hormone therapy, explaining the differences in synthetic hormones and the importance of the “orchestra”, including progesterone and pregnanalone, and more than one kind of estrogen. She explains why there is no one solution that fits all women – even though that’s what mainstream medicine wants us to believe – and gives guidance on the particular cocktail, with tweaks, that she likes to prescribe. She also gives her take on whether hormone therapy prevents cancer – its worth listening to the end just to hear what she has to say about that – and addresses that ongoing fear women have, which is weighing our fear of breast cancer risk when considering hormone therapy.Dr Connealy is recognized for her personalized, holistic approach. This episode is nothing short of a masterclass on how to get our inner house in order.Highlights:01:56 The importance of personalized medicine02:07 The rise of chronic diseases03:09 The need for preventive healthcare04:44 Challenges in cancer treatment13:08 The importance of self-care14:40 The impact of EMFs on health28:12 The power of essential oils28:46 Reprogramming the mind with EVOX29:41 Healing affirmations and subconscious reprogramming33:37 The importance of sleep and water purification34:14 Nourishing rour body with proper nutrition35:01 The role of exercise and movement35:47 Detoxification and cleasing methods38:42 Understanding hormonal health and therapy39:23 Personal experiences with hormonal treatments46:10 The importance of individualized hormonal careJoin the Hotflash inc perimenoposse: Web: hotflashinc.comNewsletter: Hotflash inc. on SubstackTikTok: @hotflashincInstagram: @hotflashincX: @hotflashinc Episode website: Hotflashinc Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google Podcasts | YouTube | Substack See hotflashinc.com/privacy-policy for privacy information