Show Notes

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.

Hormonal changes can be a rollercoaster for both parents and their children—especially when perimenopause and puberty collide. In this episode, we dive into how fluctuating estrogen and testosterone levels affect emotional regulation, mood swings, and communication within the home.

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.

Show Notes

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.