Hello, Hot Flash: Christian Menopause, Weight Loss, Hormones & Midlife Health

 
Show Notes
Menopause often brings along unexpected gut issues like bloating, constipation, and IBS, turning everyday comfort into a challenge. In today’s episode, we're diving into the powerful gut-brain connection and exploring how to restore your digestive health during this time.
Our guest, Dr. Tiffany Duffing, co-founder of GI Psychology, will break down how hormonal shifts, stress, and inflammation can disrupt your microbiome. She’ll share holistic strategies to soothe your symptoms, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, clinical hypnosis, and simple lifestyle changes.
Discover how to calm your gut, reduce bloating, and reclaim your digestive wellness—so you can enjoy your favorite foods and feel your best during menopause!
Timestamps: 
(00:03:11) Gut-brain connection explained
(00:06:10) Menopause impacts gut
(00:07:09) Stress, inflammation effects
(00:16:50) Therapy for hypersensitivity
(00:20:00) Benefits of clinical hypnosis
(00:25:48) Managing thoughts, emotions
 
About The Guest
 
Tiffany Duffing, PhD., is a licensed clinical psychologist, U.S. Army Veteran, and the co-founder of GI Psychology, a practice specializing in treating children, adolescents, and adults with various GI disorders. With a passion for serving her community, Dr. Duffing specializes in the integrative framework that pulls from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Clinical Hypnosis. She has successfully achieved therapeutic goals with children aged nine and above, adolescents, adults, and couples. Her areas of focus include gastrointestinal disorders, chronic pain, insomnia, and anxiety.
 
For Tiffany, empowering patients to create comfort is her biggest priority. Starting from the first intake session, Dr. Duffing focuses on listening actively and relaying what they have said to them to ensure complete understanding. In her career, Dr. Duffing has embraced the health psychology model, emphasizing the collaboration between psychologists, physicians, dietitians, and nurses to address the whole person. 
 
Dr. Duffing maintains active involvement in the American Society of Clinical Hypnosis (ASCH) and the Society for Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis (SCEH). She is also a volunteer Board member of the Association of Northern Virginia Clinical Psychologists (NVCP). In addition to her clinical work, Dr. Duffing serves as president of GI Psychology and ensures the practice's commitment to providing comprehensive mental health services for patients with complicated gastro-psychological conditions.
 
Learn more about her work in the following channels:
 
http://gipsychology.com
https://www.facebook.com/GIPsychology
https://www.instagram.com/gipsychusa/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/gipsychology/posts/?feedView=all
https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyduffing/
 
Additional Resources
 
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Show Notes
Hormones are crucial in shaping your overall well-being, affecting everything from mood and energy to sleep quality. Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) has become a popular “natural” option for addressing hormonal imbalances. But what exactly sets BHRT apart from traditional hormone therapies, and how can it benefit you?
In this episode, I sit down with BHRT expert Donna White, who shares her journey through hormone imbalances and her expertise in BHRT. Donna provides an in-depth look at how BHRT works, how it differs from conventional treatments, and the potential benefits for managing symptoms of perimenopause, menopause, and more.
Tune in to understand BHRT, explore its benefits, and learn what factors to consider when deciding if it’s the right choice for your health. 
Timestamps: 
(00:04:00) How Do Bioidentical Hormones Work
(00:06:02) Different Types of Hormones
(00:08:14) Young Women's Hormone Issues
(00:13:54) Hormones and Mental Health: What’s the Link
(00:17:30) How Do Hormones Affect Weight Management
(00:22:20) Cancer Myths Around Hormone Therapy
(00:27:01) Who’s Right for BHRT?
(00:32:02) Hormone Therapy Acceptance
 
About The Guest
 
After experiencing severe hormone problems in her mid-20s, Donna White was inspired to begin the veracious study of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. Driven by her desire for other women not to suffer as she did with premenstrual syndrome, perimenopausal or menopausal symptoms, Donna has become an internationally known speaker, published a book, written several ebooks and providers training manuals, appeared on radio and TV shows, hosted three radio shows and filmed and recorded educational videos and podcasts.
 
Learn more about her work in the following channels:
 
https://bhrttrainingacademy.com/
https://www.facebook.com/BHRTTrainingAcademy/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/bhrt-training-academy/
https://www.instagram.com/bhrt_training_academy/
 
Additional Resources
 
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Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos. 

Show Notes
Are menopause symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings making you feel overwhelmed? Many women struggle with the thought, “I can’t do this myself,” especially when everything feels out of control. But what if I told you that embracing your power and shifting your mindset could truly help?
Today, we’re joined by health coach Carole Murko, who transformed her life after overcoming an eye disease. Her journey taught her the powerful benefits of practices like meditation, breathwork, and self-love. In this episode, you’ll learn practical mindset techniques that can help you reclaim your health and confidently navigate menopause on your own terms.
Timestamps: 
(00:00:58) How Self-Love Transforms Your Life
(00:04:28) Qigong for Menopause
(00:05:54) Alternative Healing Methods
(00:09:26) How to Age Gracefully and Positively
(00:11:06) What Role Does Sisterhood Play in Support
(00:14:04) Effective Techniques for Stress Relief
(00:25:07) How Meditation Bridges Modern and Ancient Practices
 
About The Guest
 
Carole Murko is the master of change. Her path from Wall Street Analyst, to NPR and PBS Cooking host, and now to a mindset expert, and health and self-mastery coach is what drives her passion to help others make changes in their own lives and enable them to master their own thoughts and become the best version of themselves. She proclaims, “I help people find the healer within themselves.”
 
Carole’s hallmark program is Dr. Joe Dispenza’s neuroscience-based change program, CHANGE YOUR MIND…CREATE NEW RESULTS. She teaches this within corporations to corporate leaders and their teams, entrepreneurs, individuals (one-on-one), and retreat-style to groups. In addition, she coaches women on healing journeys. The program is designed to create a fundamental understanding of how our brain and body work so you can begin to master your thoughts to create your future. To master yourself. In her humble opinion, Carole says, “It is mind-blowingly effective when participants practice the tools and experience the transformation that changes their lives, their organization, or their health.” Carole is also a Dragon’s Way Qigong Instructor, a Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach, a NeuroChangeSolutions HeartMath Coach, and Certified Infinite Possibilities and Playing the Matrix Instructor.
 
Learn more about her work in the following channels:
 
http://www.loveeatheal.com/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093812554445
https://www.instagram.com/loveeatheal/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/carole-murko-2b310b/
 
Additional Resources
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Shaklee Vitamins - https://HelloHotFlash.com/shop

Show notes
In today’s episode, we’re cracking the code on easing the financial burden of major medical care. Join us as attorney Joanna Fawzy Doran shares essential tips and strategies for managing the high costs associated with serious health conditions.
Joanna, who brings her expertise from years of advocating for patients, will teach how to navigate the complex world of medical expenses effectively. She’ll cover practical steps for negotiating with insurance companies, understanding your rights, and exploring available financial assistance programs you might not know exist.
If you’re facing the stress of major medical bills or just want to be prepared for potential challenges, this episode provides crucial information to help you reduce costs and manage your healthcare finances more effectively.
 
Timestamps: 
(00:03:39) Knowing your rights
(00:06:38) Appeals in insurance
(00:08:12) Resources and support
(00:10:51) Legal protections overview
(00:17:47) Assistance programs
(00:23:18) ACA benefits explained
(00:30:23) Coverage of preventive services
 
About The Guest
Joanna Fawzy Doran, Esq. is the CEO of Triage Cancer and a cancer rights attorney. She has spent almost 30 years advocating for and educating individuals with cancer, their families and healthcare professionals. Joanna is an engaging and dynamic speaker who can provide insight into the legal and practical issues that can occur when dealing with cancer and other major medical diagnoses, including health insurance, employment and financial concerns.
 
Learn more about her work in the following channels:
 
https://triagecancer.org/
https://www.facebook.com/TriageCancer
https://www.instagram.com/triagecancer/
https://www.linkedin.com/groups/4423897/
https://x.com/TriageCancer
 
Additional Resources
Today's episode is sponsored by Midi Health.  The experts at Midi Health understand exactly what you’re going through because they specialize in menopause care. Their clinicians provide safe, effective, and FDA-approved solutions designed specifically for you. Plus, Midi care is covered by major insurance providers, so you don’t have to worry about hidden costs or membership fees.   You deserve to feel great, and Midi can help you get there. Schedule a virtual visit today to discuss your symptoms in depth with their experts. You’ll leave feeling heard and with a personalized plan to start feeling better. Visit JoinMidi.com and take the first step toward relief."

Show Notes
Today’s episode explores an unconventional approach to menopause management: the potential of cannabis. If you’re navigating menopause and searching for relief, have you considered cannabis? 
Join Dr. Lauren Streicher, a leading expert in women’s health, as she uncovers the latest insights on this intriguing topic. Dr. Streicher breaks down the endocannabinoid system, clarifies the differences between THC and CBD, and explains how these elements could impact your menopause symptoms. She also discusses the benefits, health risks, and the crucial “start low and go slow” strategy.
For those feeling curious, hesitant, or seeking clarity, this episode serves as an essential guide to understanding the role of cannabis in menopause management.
Timestamps: 
 
(00:01:27) Cannabis for Menopause
(00:03:51) THC vs. CBD Differences
(00:06:27) Women Share Cannabis Experiences
(00:09:16) Cannabis vs. Hormone Therapy
(00:12:03) Cardiovascular Concerns Discussed
(00:18:20) Postmenopausal Cannabis Metabolism
(00:21:19) Dosage and Drug Interactions
(00:33:01) FDA and Cannabis Research
 
About The Guest
Lauren Streicher, MD is the Medical Director of Community Education and Outreach for Midi Health, the leading virtual clinic for women navigating perimenopause and menopause. In addition to her role with Midi, Dr. Streicher is a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine and founded the Northwestern Medicine Center for Sexual Medicine and Menopause. She is a Certified Menopause Practitioner of The Menopause Society, serves on the Editorial Board of the journal Menopause and is a Senior Research Fellow for the Kinsey Institute, Indiana University. In addition to her role as Midi’s Medical Director of Community Education and Outreach, Dr. Streicher educates women through her podcast, “Dr. Streicher’s Inside Information,” is the author of 5 bestselling books on women’s health and is a columnist for Prevention Magazine and The Ethel by AARP. In addition to her consumer books and articles, Dr. Streicher has authored multiple scientific publications, serves on many advisory boards and has been the recipient of many awards including the North American Menopause Society Media Award. 
Learn more about her work in the following channels:
 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-streicher-md-1b314b13/
https://twitter.com/drstreicher
https://www.facebook.com/DrStreicher/
https://www.instagram.com/drstreich/
https://www.youtube.com/c/DrStreicherTV
 
Additional Resources
 
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Show Notes
Making the leap from corporate to entrepreneurship can be daunting, but it's a journey that many successful midlife women have navigated. 
 
In today’s episode, Toni Eastwood shares her own experience transitioning from the corporate world to starting her own business. She discusses the common challenges women face, like imposter syndrome and fear of risk, as well as strategies for finding your purpose, creating work-life balance, and designing a fulfilling entrepreneurial path. 
 
Whether you're considering entrepreneurship or already running your own business, this episode offers valuable guidance on overcoming obstacles and embracing the freedom and flexibility of being your own boss.
 
Timestamps: 
(00:07:00) Women's career transition challenges
(00:08:14) Importance of career identity
(00:13:01) Post-corporate identity struggles
(00:15:45) Menopause impacts on careers
(00:20:16) Balancing entrepreneurial life
(00:25:07) Time management routines
 
About Our Guest
Toni Eastwood has spent the last 30+ years researching how successful people become, successful, she specialises in Helping 40+ Women Leaders to navigate from Corporate into Entrepreneurship. Ignite their Purpose and Create the Life they Truly Desire. Using her proven ASPIRE Model. She is and Award Winning Entrepreneur, Mentor, NXD, Podcast Host. Awarded an OBE, by the Queen in 2007.
 
Learn more about her work in the following channels:
 
https://quantumvantage.co.uk/
https://www.facebook.com/toni.eastwood.73
https://www.instagram.com/tonieastwood_obe/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonieastwoodobe/
 
Additional Resources
 
Like to watch your podcast episodes? Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos.  
Listen to my limited series podcast "Christian Women and Menopause" for Bible-based strategies on dealing with menopause symptoms like stress, anxiety, and depression.

Struggling with menopause symptoms like hot flashes or brain fog? Imagine if a simple technique could help ease these challenges. It’s called Tapping, and it might be just what you need.
In today’s episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Jill Wener, a board-certified internist and EFT practitioner. Dr. Jill reveals how tapping has become a powerful tool for managing menopause symptoms and balancing emotional well-being. She explains how this technique works to regulate the nervous system and address issues like hot flashes and stress.
Dr. Jill also explores how tapping can support broader issues, including racial trauma and health equity, and offers practical advice on patient advocacy.
Don’t miss this insightful conversation!
Timestamps: 
(00:02:55) Understanding Tapping: How It Reduces Stress  
(00:07:11) Using Tapping to Alleviate Symptoms  
(00:10:48) Finding Emotional Grounding with Tapping  
(00:13:46) Tapping as a Tool for Sustainable Activism  
(00:17:08) The Versatility of Tapping in Healthcare  
(00:25:25) How Tapping Empowers Healthcare Advocacy
 
About The Guest
Jill Wener, MD, is a board-certified Internist, EFT/tapping practitioner and trainer, anti-racism educator, DEI consultant, trauma specialist, allyship coach, expert in physician wellness, and Co-Founder and Partner at Conscious Anti-Racism, LLC. She is passionate about helping people take responsibility for their problems and teaching them practical, easy, rewarding, and trauma-informed tools to take self-improvement to the next level. Jill is the co-creator of the CME-accredited Conscious Anti-Racism training programs, the host of the Conscious Anti-Racism podcast, and the co-author of the best-selling Conscious Anti-Racism book. She has created CME-accredited EFT/tapping and meditation courses. 
Jill has worked with clients such as Georgia Aquarium, Yale University, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, Seattle Children’s Hospital, Centene, Santa Clara Medical Society, Rush University Medical Center, the Pittsburgh Business Group on Health, Atkins Global, and the National Alliance for Healthcare Purchaser Coalitions. 
Learn more about her work in the following channels:
https://www.jillwener.com/
http://www.instagram.com/jillwenerMD
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillwenermd/
Additional Resources
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Show Notes
Feeling tired, gaining weight, or struggling with mood swings? The solution might be balancing your thyroid and hormones. 
In this episode, Dr. Amy Brenner, a board-certified gynecologist, shares her personal journey of finding whole-body health through hormone optimization. After years of feeling off despite following all the right advice, she discovered that comprehensive hormone testing—including thyroid, adrenals, blood sugar, and nutrients—was the key to real balance.
Tune in to learn about common thyroid symptoms, essential tests to ask your doctor for, and lifestyle changes that can boost your energy and mood. Hear Dr. Brenner’s story and get tips for better, more comprehensive care.
Timestamps: 
(00:00:34) Whole body gynecology approach
(00:07:35) Symptoms of thyroid dysfunction
(00:09:17) Comprehensive thyroid testing
(00:12:33) Interplay: Thyroid and sex hormones
(00:15:54) Lifestyle changes for health
(00:19:24) Advocating for health panels
 
Additional Resources
Help us make a difference in women’s healthcare. Take a few minutes and complete this survey.
Like to watch your podcast episodes?  Well, so do I! Subscribe to my YouTube page, @hellohotflashpodcast, to see the videos.  
EP. 082 - How To Use Biohacking To Support Adrenal Fatigue
Ep. 122 - How To Heal Your Thyroid
 
About Our Guest
Dr. Amy Brenner is board certified in gynecology and Functional Medicine. She has been treating women with a whole body approach for approximately 15 years. Her special interest is treating women who are post menopausal.
 
Learn more about her work in the following channels:
 
http://www.dramybrenner.com
https://www.instagram.com/amybrennermd/