Not Your Mother's Menopause with Dr. Fiona Lovely | Perimenopause and Menopause Support

In this lively and wide-ranging conversation, Dr. Fiona Lovely welcomes back Dr. Carrie Jones, a naturopathic physician and internationally recognized expert in women's health and hormones. Known as the "Queen of Hormones," Dr. Jones brings over two decades of clinical experience to a discussion that moves seamlessly from the deeply clinical to the delightfully personal. The two explore how the definition of perimenopause has been far too narrow, with symptoms often beginning in a woman's thirties—years before most doctors think to look. Dr. Jones also highlights a significant shift in the field: new position papers from international menopause societies now recommend that women who reach menopause before age 45 be treated differently, with hormone replacement positioned as protection for the brain, bones, and heart, not merely symptom relief. Beyond the clinical, the conversation celebrates the friendships that sustain women through this transition and challenges the notion that menopause should be endured in silence. Dr. Jones shares her own experience of moving through the "I don't care" era with newfound peace, and she offers candid reflections on everything from Korean skincare to strength training. Listeners will walk away informed, encouraged, and reminded that the wisest years are still ahead. Connect with Dr. Carrie Jones: IG: @dr.carriejones Tiktok: @dr.carriejones Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@drcarriejones Spotify: Hello Hormones w/ Dr. Carrie Jones Apple Podcast: Hello Hormones w/ Dr. Carrie Jones Website: www.drcarriejones.com Thank you to our sponsors for this episode: 💙🌿BEAM Minerals to help with stress related depletion - this is your 2026 pro-health move! Did you know that chronic stress can zap your energy and your minerals? You FEEL better quickly, with this easy to take supplement - replenishing all lost minerals. Give BEAM a try - beamminerals.com and use the code LOVELY for 20% off your first order! 😴 Support for Deeper Sleep with BiOptimizers: We talk a lot about hormone and nervous system balance, and quality sleep is foundational to both. Most supplements rely on just one cheap form of magnesium, but Magnesium Breakthrough includes all seven essential forms to truly nourish your nervous system and support deep, restful sleep. BiOptimizers has spent over two decades in their own lab perfecting this blend. Visit bioptimizers.com/lovely and use promo code LOVELY at checkout. How to work with Dr. Lovely: We get many requests for this info, so here it is! First off, thank you for listening to the NYMM podcast. It's because of your support - listening and sharing the episodes and using our product links, we can continue to dispense this information.❤️ Thank you! 🙏🏼 Follow Dr. Lovely on IG and TikTok : @drfionalovely Follow the podcast on Facebook: www.facebook.com/@notyourmothersmenopausepodcast Please sign up for our newsletter - Fiona's Friday Favourites! This is where we make the first announcements, share course offerings, drop new episodes, blog posts and the coveted 'Fiona's Favourites' column, etc. drlovely.com to sign up to the email list and get our 5 brain health tools for menopause guide! Finally, a humble request: If you love the podcast, please leave us a review! It helps more people find useful info for a challenging time: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/not-your-mothers-menopause-with-dr-fiona-lovely/id1097326296 Please scroll to the bottom of the page to leave a review. Thank you! 💕🤗 Partnerships by Category3 Media Group

In this fascinating episode, Dr. Fiona Lovely sits down with Dr. Michael Bader, a psychoanalyst with over 45 years of experience, for a deep dive into the psychology of sexual desire, pleasure, and the often-unexamined beliefs that shape our erotic lives. Together, they explore why sexual excitement is not simply a biological drive that bursts into consciousness, but rather something the mind carefully regulates based on unconscious assessments of safety and danger. Dr. Bader introduces listeners to the concept of pathogenic beliefs—the unconscious rules we form in childhood about what we are "supposed" to feel or not feel. These beliefs, often rooted in guilt or shame, can create roadblocks to sexual excitement into adulthood that no amount of hormone replacement therapy alone can fix. He explains how sexual fantasies function as creative solutions, momentarily bypassing these inhibitions and allowing pleasure to flow. Listeners will walk away with a new understanding of their own erotic minds and practical insight into how psychological safety, guilt, and shame influence their capacity for pleasure. Dr. Bader offers a compassionate perspective, reminding women that understanding these dynamics is valuable—but that acceptance without judgment is also a valid and healthy outcome. Tune in for a conversation that is as enlightening as it is liberating. Connect with Dr. Bader: Website: https://michaelbader.com/ X: https://x.com/psychpolitics YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjTd0ydMlfFZO__pCjDrZxw Thank you to our sponsor for this episode: 🌱 Ready to level up your nutrition? Check out AG1 for nutritional insurance on busy days! Visit our partner page here, to discover the ultimate all-in-one nutritional supplement. Plus, our podcast subscribers score exclusive freebies! 💚 💧If you're noticing fine lines, wrinkles, or sagging skin — thanks menopause —ugh, me too. Menopause can deplete your skin's collagen, speeding up aging. But here's the game-changer: Vitali Skincare has built its entire line on the power of GHK-Cu copper peptides — a proven ingredient that signals your skin's stem cells to produce new, healthy collagen. Head to vitaliskincare.com and use the code LOVELY at checkout for 20% off. 💙 How to work with Dr. Lovely: We get many requests for this info, so here it is! First off, thank you for listening to the NYMM podcast. It's because of your support - listening and sharing the episodes and using our product links, we can continue to dispense this information.❤️ Thank you! 🙏🏼 Follow Dr. Lovely on IG and TikTok : @drfionalovely Follow the podcast on Facebook: www.facebook.com/@notyourmothersmenopausepodcast Please sign up for our newsletter - Fiona's Friday Favourites! This is where we make the first announcements, share course offerings, drop new episodes, blog posts and the coveted 'Fiona's Favourites' column, etc. drlovely.com to sign up to the email list and get our 5 brain health tools for menopause guide! Finally, a humble request: If you love the podcast, please leave us a review! It helps more people find useful info for a challenging time: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/not-your-mothers-menopause-with-dr-fiona-lovely/id1097326296 Please scroll to the bottom of the page to leave a review. Thank you! 💕🤗 Partnerships by Category3 Media Group

In this solo episode, Dr. Fiona Lovely kicks off a new season of the Not Your Mother's Menopause Podcast with a powerful conversation about the evolving landscape of menopause care. She reflects on how the conversation has shifted from merely tolerating symptoms to embracing whole-person, life-course care that values women well beyond their reproductive years. This is not just about hot flashes and fractured sleep—it's about asking what matters most to each woman and supporting her unique priorities. Dr. Fiona tackles one of the most unsettling symptoms of perimenopause: brain fog. Drawing on research from Lisa Mosconi and Roberta Brinton, she explains that while brain fog feels frightening, it is actually a sign of the brain's adaptation and resilience, not a verdict on cognitive decline. She reassures listeners that cognitive performance does not significantly decline during the transition, and that the brain often stabilizes and rebounds post-menopause. The episode also addresses the latest data on HRT, dispelling outdated fears and clarifying that informed choice is not dangerous—but dismissal is. Dr. Fiona emphasizes that there is no automatic expiration date on HRT and that continuing therapy beyond age 65 can be appropriate for persistent symptoms or quality of life concerns. Finally, she shares her excitement about the upcoming fall enrollment of the Menopause Doula Certification: a program that trains women in Dr. Lovely's methods to support others through the transition with education, advocacy, and compassionate validation. This episode is a rallying cry for women to ask better questions, seek better care, and embrace the decades ahead with confidence and clarity. Thank you to our sponsors for this episode: 🌵If vaginal dryness or discomfort is disrupting your day, Womaness's Melt For You inserts offer a gentle, deeply restorative way to find relief. Completely hormone-free and safe to use alongside HRT, these applicator-free suppositories use hyaluronic and lactic acids to naturally replenish moisture, stabilize hydration, and support your vaginal microbiome. Because supporting your body through menopause means feeling comfortable and confident in your own skin. Head to womaness.com and use code LOVELY for our discount. 💧If you're noticing fine lines, wrinkles, or sagging skin — thanks menopause —ugh, me too. Menopause can deplete your skin's collagen, speeding up aging. But here's the game-changer: Vitali Skincare has built its entire line on the power of GHK-Cu copper peptides — a proven ingredient that signals your skin's stem cells to produce new, healthy collagen. Head to vitaliskincare.com and use the code LOVELY at checkout for 20% off. 💙 Dr. Fiona Lovely is a longevity, health and wellness expert with specialties in menopause medicine, functional neurology and functional medicine. She is speaking to the topics of women's health around perimenopause and menopause. How to work with Dr. Lovely: We get many requests for this info, so here it is! First off, thank you for listening to the NYMM podcast. It's because of your support, we can continue to dispense this information.❤️ Follow Dr. Lovely on IG and TikTok : @drfionalovely Follow the podcast on Facebook: www.facebook.com/@notyourmothersmenopausepodcast Please sign up for our newsletter - Fiona's Friday Favourites! This is where we make the first announcements, share course offerings, drop new episodes, blog posts and the coveted 'Fiona's Favourites' column, etc. drlovely.com You can also find some great resources there! Finally, a humble request: If you love the podcast, please leave us a review! It helps more people find useful info for a challenging time: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/not-your-mothers-menopause-with-dr-fiona-lovely/id1097326296 Please scroll to the bottom of the page to leave a review. Thank you! 💕🤗 Partnerships by Category3 Media Group

In this episode, Dr. Fiona Lovely sits down with Angelo Keely, a nutrition and protein optimization expert, for a conversation that every woman in midlife needs to hear. The topic? Why protein intake needs actually increase with age—especially during perimenopause and menopause—and how getting this right can be a game-changer for strength, metabolism, and overall vitality. Angelo breaks down the often-overlooked reality of sarcopenia, the gradual loss of muscle mass that sneaks in as women age, and explains why maintaining muscle is not just about looking toned—it's about bone health, metabolic function, and long-term independence. He shares practical strategies for hitting daily protein goals without overeating, and clarifies the important distinction between standard protein powders and essential amino acids (EAAs), explaining what the body actually absorbs and utilizes. The conversation also tackles the rise of GLP-1 medications and the risks of rapid weight loss without proper muscle support. Angelo offers straightforward guidance on how to pair these medications with resistance training and targeted amino acid support to preserve lean mass and vitality. Listeners will walk away with simple, sustainable strategies for fueling their bodies for strength and longevity—no matter their age. Discover how to protect your muscle, protect your health, and age on your own terms. Check out Kion and learn more at getkion.com/lovely (Bonus: you get 20% off!!) Thank you to our sponsors for this episode: 💙🌿BEAM Minerals to help with stress related depletion - this is your 2026 pro-health move! Did you know that chronic stress can zap your energy and your minerals? You FEEL better quickly, with this easy to take supplement - replenishing all lost minerals. Give BEAM a try - beamminerals.com and use the code LOVELY for 20% off your first order! 🧪Women in perimenopause and menopause talk about wanting the same things — less bloating, no afternoon crash after eating, steady energy. MassZymes is perfect for helping your body's ability to actually process what you eat. MassZymes from BiOptimizers uses a full-spectrum blend of 18 enzymes. That means you're getting more out of the food you eat. Plus, it works across different stomach acid levels, which can really matter as we age. Go to bioptimizers.com/lovely and use code LOVELY for a discount. Dr. Fiona Lovely is a longevity, health and wellness expert with specialties in menopause medicine, functional neurology and functional medicine. She is speaking to the topics of women's health around perimenopause and menopause. She is the Founder of the Menopause Doula Council and Certification. How to work with Dr. Lovely: We get many requests for this info, so here it is! First off, thank you for listening to the NYMM podcast. It's because of your support, we can continue to dispense this information.❤️ Follow Dr. Lovely on IG and TikTok : @drfionalovely Follow the podcast on Facebook: www.facebook.com/@notyourmothersmenopausepodcast Please sign up for our newsletter - Fiona's Friday Favourites! This is where we make the first announcements, share course offerings, drop new episodes, blog posts and the coveted 'Fiona's Favourites' column, etc. drlovely.com You can also find some great resources there! Finally, a humble request: If you love the podcast, please leave us a review! It helps more people find useful info for a challenging time: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/not-your-mothers-menopause-with-dr-fiona-lovely/id1097326296 Please scroll to the bottom of the page to leave a review. Thank you! 💕🤗 Partnerships by Category3 Media Group

Navigating the conversation about hormone replacement therapy can feel overwhelming, especially when there is so much conflicting information circulating. In this listener favorite episode, Dr. Fiona Lovely cuts through the noise and provides listeners with the essential tools they need to advocate for themselves when speaking with their healthcare providers about HRT. She addresses the questions that come up time and again—who is a candidate, what are the real risks and benefits, and what specific products women should be asking for. Dr. Fiona breaks down the latest research in a clear, accessible way, empowering women to move past outdated fears and have informed, productive conversations with their doctors. She also shares practical resources, including directories for finding qualified practitioners who specialize in menopause care, and highlights the importance of doing thorough research before choosing a provider or clinic. This episode is a must-listen for any woman navigating perimenopause or menopause who wants to take charge of her health and make confident decisions about hormone therapy. Tune in to learn exactly what you need to know before your next appointment. Thank you to our sponsors for this episode: 💙If you're noticing fine lines, wrinkles, or sagging skin — thanks menopause —ugh, me too. Menopause can deplete your skin's collagen, speeding up aging. But here's the game-changer: Vitali Skincare has built its entire line on the power of GHK-Cu copper peptides — a proven ingredient that signals your skin's stem cells to produce new, healthy collagen. Head to vitaliskincare.com and use the code LOVELY at checkout for 20% off. Be sure to check out the Vita exosome serum for less saggy, dull skin. 🌵If vaginal dryness or discomfort is disrupting your day, Womaness's Melt For You inserts offer a gentle, deeply restorative way to find relief. Completely hormone-free and safe to use alongside HRT, these applicator-free suppositories use hyaluronic and lactic acids to naturally replenish moisture, stabilize hydration, and support your vaginal microbiome. Because supporting your body through menopause means feeling comfortable and confident in your own skin. Head to womaness.com and use code LOVELY for a special discount. Dr. Fiona Lovely is a longevity, health and wellness expert with specialties in menopause medicine, functional neurology and functional medicine. She is speaking to the topics of women's health around perimenopause and menopause. How to work with Dr. Lovely: We get many requests for this info, so here it is! First off, thank you for listening to the NYMM podcast. It's because of your support, we can continue to dispense this information.❤️ Follow Dr. Lovely on IG and TikTok : @drfionalovely Follow the podcast on Facebook: www.facebook.com/@notyourmothersmenopausepodcast Please sign up for our newsletter - Fiona's Friday Favourites! This is where we make the first announcements, share course offerings, drop new episodes, blog posts and the coveted 'Fiona's Favourites' column, etc. drlovely.com You can also find some great resources there! Finally, a humble request: If you love the podcast, please leave us a review! It helps more people find useful info for a challenging time: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/not-your-mothers-menopause-with-dr-fiona-lovely/id1097326296 Please scroll to the bottom of the page to leave a review. Thank you! 💕🤗 Partnerships by Category3 Media Group

Prepare to discover a revolutionary approach to health and longevity that is transforming how we think about healing! In this fan-favorite episode, Dr. Fiona Lovely sits down with Kyal Van Der Leest, an Australian Nutritionist and Naturopath who is at the forefront of bio-identical and peptide-based therapies. If you've heard the word "peptides" trending in wellness circles but aren't sure how they fit into your health strategy—especially through the hormonal shifts of perimenopause and menopause—this episode is your definitive, easy-to-understand roadmap. Rather than viewing peptides as synthetic additives, Kyal breaks down how these short chains of amino acids function as your body's own natural cellular messengers. Discover how targeted peptide therapies can communicate directly with your cells to spur healing, repair, and regeneration in ways traditional supplements and pharmaceuticals simply can't match. In This Episode, You'll Discover: Peptides 101: What peptides actually are and why they speak your body's exact biological language. Targeted Cellular Repair: How peptide signaling works to trigger tissue restoration, hormonal optimization, and metabolic recovery. The Gut-Brain Axis & Leaky Gut: The specific peptide mechanics that directly block zonulin—the protein responsible for gut permeability—to help seal and heal the intestinal lining. Short-Term Interventions for Long-Term Health: Why peptide therapy isn't meant to be a lifetime dependency, but rather a temporary, high-impact tool to reset your foundational health. Integrating Peptides Safely: Practical insights on using peptide therapy as part of a holistic, root-cause approach to midlife wellness. They can be taken orally - safe and effective and legal! You can find out more about LVLUP Health and Kyal here. (You can use code LOVELY for a special discount!) Thank you to our sponsors for this episode: 🌱 Ready to level up your nutrition? Check out AG1 for nutritional insurance on busy days! Visit our partner page here, to discover the ultimate all-in-one nutritional supplement. Plus, our podcast subscribers score exclusive freebies! 💚 🌿Women in perimenopause and menopause talk about wanting the same things — less bloating, no afternoon crash after eating, steady energy. MassZymes is perfect for helping your body's ability to actually process what you eat. MassZymes uses a full-spectrum blend of 18 enzymes. That means you're getting more out of the food you eat. Plus, it works across different stomach acid levels, which can really matter as we age. Go to bioptimizers.com and use code LOVELY for a special discount for our listeners. 🧪 How to work with Dr. Lovely: We get many requests for this info, so here it is! First off, thank you for listening to the NYMM podcast. It's because of your support, we can continue to dispense this information.❤️ Follow Dr. Lovely on IG and TikTok : @drfionalovely Follow the podcast on Facebook: www.facebook.com/@notyourmothersmenopausepodcast Please sign up for our newsletter - Fiona's Friday Favourites! This is where we make the first announcements, share course offerings, drop new episodes, blog posts and the coveted 'Fiona's Favourites' column, etc. drlovely.com You can also find some great resources there! Finally, a humble request: If you love the podcast, please leave us a review! It helps more people find useful info for a challenging time: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/not-your-mothers-menopause-with-dr-fiona-lovely/id1097326296 Please scroll to the bottom of the page to leave a review. Thank you! 💕🤗 Partnerships by Category3 Media Group

In this special re-airing, listeners are invited to revisit a highly requested interview from the Women Aging Powerfully 2025 Summit. The host Leah Vachani sits down with menopause medicine and functional neurology expert Dr. Fiona Lovely to pull back the curtain on Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause, or MSM. Drawing on two decades of clinical experience, Dr. Lovely expertly details this underdiagnosed condition, which affects seventy-one percent of women and manifests as joint stiffness, declining muscle mass, and bone density loss. The conversation provides a comprehensive look at the body's response to estrogen loss and the protective role of contemporary Hormone Replacement Therapy. Listeners will discover how bioidentical progesterone and topical estradiol can reduce pain while preserving muscle. Furthermore, the discussion highlights the necessity of optimizing daily protein intake to stabilize blood sugar and fight sarcopenia. Resistance training is presented as non-negotiable for metabolic health, alongside practical strategies for advocating for proper medical care. Episode Highlights: Understanding MSM and its prevalence among women. The protective benefits of bioidentical progesterone and estradiol. Why optimal protein consumption is crucial for fighting sarcopenia. The importance of resistance training and balance exercises for cognitive and metabolic health. Practical tips for advocating for contemporary treatments at the doctor's office. For full access to the summit, visit https://womenagingpowerfully.com . Thank you to our sponsors for this episode: 💧If vaginal dryness or discomfort is disrupting your day, Womaness's Melt For You inserts offer a gentle, deeply restorative way to find relief. Completely hormone-free and safe to use alongside HRT, these applicator-free suppositories use hyaluronic and lactic acids to naturally replenish moisture, stabilize hydration, and support your vaginal microbiome. Because supporting your body through menopause means feeling comfortable and confident in your own skin. Head to womaness.com and use code LOVELY for a special discount. 💙If you're noticing fine lines, wrinkles, or sagging skin — thanks menopause —ugh, me too. Menopause can deplete your skin's collagen, speeding up aging. But here's the game-changer: Vitali Skincare has built its entire line on the power of GHK-Cu copper peptides — a proven ingredient that signals your skin's stem cells to produce new, healthy collagen. Head to vitaliskincare.com and use the code LOVELY at checkout for 20% off. Be sure to check out the Vita exosome serum for less saggy, dull skin. How to work with Dr. Lovely: We get many requests for this info, so here it is! First off, thank you for listening to the NYMM podcast. It's because of your support - listening and sharing the episodes and using our product links, we can continue to dispense this information.❤️ Thank you! 🙏🏼 Follow Dr. Lovely on IG and TikTok : @drfionalovely Follow the podcast on Facebook: www.facebook.com/@notyourmothersmenopausepodcast Please sign up for our newsletter - Fiona's Friday Favourites! This is where we make the first announcements, share course offerings, drop new episodes, blog posts and the coveted 'Fiona's Favourites' column, etc. drlovely.com to sign up to the email list and get our 5 brain health tools for menopause guide! Finally, a humble request: If you love the podcast, please leave us a review! It helps more people find useful info for a challenging time: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/not-your-mothers-menopause-with-dr-fiona-lovely/id1097326296 Please scroll to the bottom of the page to leave a review. Thank you! 💕🤗 Partnerships by Category3 Media Group

If you've been chalking up your exhaustion, brain fog, and irritability to "just another day in perimenopause," Dr. Fiona Lovely is here to challenge that assumption. In this loved solo episode, she shines a much-needed spotlight on iron deficiency anemia—a condition that affects billions worldwide and is disproportionately common in women, yet frequently overlooked by conventional medicine. Dr. Lovely walks listeners through the telltale signs: fatigue, mood swings, hair loss, cold intolerance, and cracked lips at the corners of the mouth. Sound familiar? These symptoms are so easily dismissed as normal menopausal woes, but they may point to something far more treatable. She explains why women in the menopause transition are particularly vulnerable—thanks to heavy menstrual bleeding—and why iron debt can persist for years even after periods stop. The episode provides a thorough breakdown of the lab work that actually matters, moving far beyond the standard CBC. Dr. Lovely lists the markers every woman should request, including ferritin, transferrin, and TIBC, and explains why many doctors miss the full picture. She also covers the best dietary sources of iron, the difference between heme and non-heme iron, and practical strategies to boost absorption—like pairing iron with vitamin C and avoiding coffee or calcium around supplement time. This is not a quick fix, but with the right testing, the right supplements, and patience, energy can be restored. As Dr. Lovely reminds listeners, if something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. Be the squeaky wheel. Episode Highlights: The common symptoms of iron deficiency that are often mistaken for perimenopause. Why ferritin is the first marker to drop and what it reveals about your iron stores. How proton pump inhibitors and low stomach acid sabotage iron absorption. The surprising iron-rich foods that outrank beef liver, including clams and oysters. Why replenishing iron takes time—often a year or more—and which supplements are gentler on digestion. Tune in and learn why that relentless fatigue might not be "just menopause" after all—and how to finally reclaim your energy. Thank you to our sponsors for this episode: 🌱 Ready to level up your nutrition? Check out AG1 for nutritional insurance on busy days! Visit our partner page here, to discover the ultimate all-in-one nutritional supplement. Plus, our podcast subscribers score exclusive freebies! 💚 🌿Women in perimenopause and menopause talk about wanting the same things — less bloating, no afternoon crash after eating, steady energy. MassZymes is perfect for helping your body's ability to actually process what you eat. MassZymes uses a full-spectrum blend of 18 enzymes. That means you're getting more out of the food you eat. Plus, it works across different stomach acid levels, which can really matter as we age. Here's what you get when you go to bioptimizers.com/lovely and use code LOVELY to get 15% off your entire order. 🧪 How to work with Dr. Lovely: We get many requests for this info, so here it is! First off, thank you for listening to the NYMM podcast. It's because of your support - listening and sharing the episodes and using our product links, we can continue to dispense this information.❤️ Thank you! 🙏🏼 Follow Dr. Lovely on IG and TikTok : @drfionalovely Follow the podcast on Facebook: www.facebook.com/@notyourmothersmenopausepodcast Please sign up for our newsletter - Fiona's Friday Favourites! This is where we make the first announcements, share course offerings, drop new episodes, blog posts and the coveted 'Fiona's Favourites' column, etc. drlovely.com to sign up to the email list and get our 5 brain health tools for menopause guide! Finally, a humble request: If you love the podcast, please leave us a review! It helps more people find useful info for a challenging time: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/not-your-mothers-menopause-with-dr-fiona-lovely/id1097326296 Please scroll to the bottom of the page to leave a review. Thank you! 💕🤗 Partnerships by Category3 Media Group

In this episode of Not Your Mother's Menopause Podcast, Dr. Fiona Lovely sits down with Dr. Louann Brizendine, the renowned neuropsychiatrist and author of the groundbreaking book The Upgrade (released in 2022). Dr. Brizendine, who founded the first U.S. clinic focused on women's mood and hormone-related brain function, brings her decades of expertise to a conversation that reframes everything women have been told about life after fertility. The episode challenges the narrative that menopause marks an ending. Instead, Dr. Brizendine introduces listeners to the Upgrade—the wisdom phase that emerges after the hormonal chaos of perimenopause settles. She explains how the transition, formerly known as perimenopause, is a period of significant brain and body shifts, but what follows is a time of clarity, freedom, and renewed purpose. Women often feel joyless and irritable during the transition, but Dr. Brizendine offers hope, sharing that the happiness quotient actually increases with each decade of life. Listeners will learn practical brain and body hacks, including how to support the vagus nerve for better heart-brain communication and the importance of hormone therapy timing for brain protection. Dr. Brizendine also addresses the controversy surrounding HRT, urging women to consider estrogen not just for symptom relief but as prevention for cognitive decline. This is a conversation about reclaiming authentic selfhood, leaving behind the people-pleasing tendencies of the fertile years, and stepping into a powerful new identity. The message is clear: the good stuff is coming. Episode Highlights: Dr. Brizendine defines the transition versus the Upgrade and why the language matters. The connection between dropping estrogen and changes in mood, memory, and metabolism. How progesterone acts like natural valium—and what happens when it drops. The importance of timing hormone therapy for optimal brain protection. Practical techniques for calming the nervous system and enhancing vagal tone. Tune in to discover why the second half of life holds more freedom, joy, and possibility than women have ever been led to believe. Follow Dr. Louann Brizendine: IG | Website | Buy her book, The Upgrade Thank you to our sponsors for this episode: 💙If you're noticing fine lines, wrinkles, or sagging skin — thanks menopause —ugh, me too. Menopause can deplete your skin's collagen, speeding up aging. But here's the game-changer: Vitali Skincare has built its entire line on the power of GHK-Cu copper peptides — a proven ingredient that signals your skin's stem cells to produce new, healthy collagen. Head to vitaliskincare.com and use the code LOVELY at checkout for 20% off. Be sure to check out the Vita exosome serum for less sagging, dull skin. 🌵If vaginal dryness or discomfort is disrupting your day, Womaness's Melt For You inserts offer a gentle, deeply restorative way to find relief. Completely hormone-free and safe to use alongside HRT, these applicator-free suppositories use hyaluronic and lactic acids to naturally replenish moisture, stabilize hydration, and support your vaginal microbiome. Because supporting your body through menopause means feeling comfortable and confident in your own skin. Head to womaness.com and use code LOVELY for a special discount. 💦 How to work with Dr. Lovely: We get many requests for this info, so here it is! First off, thank you for listening to the NYMM podcast. It's because of your support - listening and sharing the episodes and using our product links, we can continue to dispense this information.❤️ Thank you! 🙏🏼 Follow Dr. Lovely on IG and TikTok : @drfionalovely Follow the podcast on Facebook: www.facebook.com/@notyourmothersmenopausepodcast Please sign up for our newsletter - Fiona's Friday Favourites! This is where we make the first announcements, share course offerings, drop new episodes, blog posts and the coveted 'Fiona's Favourites' column, etc. drlovely.com to sign up to the email list and get our 5 brain health tools for menopause guide! Finally, a humble request: If you love the podcast, please leave us a review! It helps more people find useful info for a challenging time: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/not-your-mothers-menopause-with-dr-fiona-lovely/id1097326296 Please scroll to the bottom of the page to leave a review. Thank you! 💕🤗 Partnerships by Category3 Media Group

This episode is a re-airing of a listener-favorite (and for good reason), Dr. Fiona Lovely welcomes back Sarah Kennedy, founder and CEO of Calocurb, for a candid look at why weight management during perimenopause and menopause feels like an uphill battle. The truth is, the average woman gains around 22 pounds during the menopause transition—and being told to simply "eat less" completely ignores the physiological storm happening beneath the surface. Sarah breaks down how dropping estrogen levels alter fat distribution, slow metabolism, and increase insulin resistance, making midlife weight gain a biological reality, not a personal failure. The conversation cuts through the myth that hunger is a matter of willpower. Sarah explains that eating is a primal drive controlled by the hypothalamus, and factors like stress, poor sleep, and alcohol can easily override even the most determined frontal lobe. She also highlights the critical importance of maintaining muscle mass during this stage of life to prevent sarcopenia and frailty, emphasizing that adequate protein intake and resistance exercise are non-negotiable—especially for those using weight-loss medications. Sarah shares her personal journey with yo-yo dieting and how discovering a natural approach to appetite modulation has transformed her relationship with food. She offers an encouraging perspective that post-menopause can be a time of renewed peace and vitality, sharing that she is now the same size she was at 25. Listeners will walk away with practical strategies, a deeper understanding of their changing bodies, and genuine hope that the other side of menopause is not only manageable but truly liberating. Tune in to learn why hunger is not your enemy and how to work with your biology rather than against it. You can find Calocurb here and if you use code LOVELY10 get 10% off your first order! Thank you to our sponsors for this episode: 💙🌿BEAM Minerals to help with stress related depletion - this is your 2026 pro-health move! Did you know that chronic stress can zap your energy and your minerals? You FEEL better quickly, with this easy to take supplement - replenishing all lost minerals. Give BEAM a try - beamminerals.com and use the code LOVELY for 20% off your first order! 🙀Women in perimenopause and menopause talk about wanting the same things — less bloating, no afternoon crash after eating, steady energy. MassZymes is perfect for helping your body's ability to actually process what you eat. MassZymes uses a full-spectrum blend of 18 enzymes. That means you're getting more out of the food you eat. Plus, it works across different stomach acid levels, which can really matter as we age. Here's what you get when you go to bioptimizers.com/lovely and use code LOVELY to get 15% off your entire order. How to work with Dr. Lovely: We get many requests for this info, so here it is! First off, thank you for listening to the NYMM podcast. It's because of your support - listening and sharing the episodes and using our product links, we can continue to dispense this information.❤️ Thank you! 🙏🏼 Follow Dr. Lovely on IG and TikTok : @drfionalovely Follow the podcast on Facebook: www.facebook.com/@notyourmothersmenopausepodcast Please sign up for our newsletter - Fiona's Friday Favourites! This is where we make the first announcements, share course offerings, drop new episodes, blog posts and the coveted 'Fiona's Favourites' column, etc. drlovely.com to sign up to the email list and get our 5 brain health tools for menopause guide! Finally, a humble request: If you love the podcast, please leave us a review! It helps more people find useful info for a challenging time: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/not-your-mothers-menopause-with-dr-fiona-lovely/id1097326296 Please scroll to the bottom of the page to leave a review. Thank you! 💕🤗 Partnerships by Category3 Media Group

In this rerelease of a need-to-know solo episode, Dr. Fiona Lovely pulls back the curtain on one of the most overlooked yet critical pieces of the women's health puzzle: the connection between low iron and mental health. Many women navigating perimenopause and menopause are walking around with iron deficiency or other forms of anemia, completely unaware that their fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, and even depression could be rooted in something as measurable as their ferritin levels. Dr. Lovely breaks down exactly why this happens, how standard lab ranges often miss the mark, and what optimal iron status actually looks like for women in midlife. (hint: it's 80+, not 10 or less like we have been lead to believe is "normal".) This short but mighty episode is packed with clinical pearls that could change the way listeners view their own symptoms. Dr. Lovely explains the physiological mechanisms behind iron's role in neurotransmitter production and oxygen delivery to the brain, making it clear that mental health cannot be separated from physical health. She also offers practical guidance on testing, interpretation, and what steps to take if you suspect your iron levels are suboptimal. Whether you're struggling with low mood, exhaustion that coffee can't fix, or simply feeling like you're running on empty, this episode will give you the clarity and actionable information you need to advocate for yourself. Don't let this deficiency steal your vitality. Tune in to learn how to connect the dots between your iron and your overall wellbeing. Thank you to our sponsors for this episode: 🌱 Ready to level up your nutrition? Check out AG1 for nutritional insurance on busy days! Visit our partner page here, to discover the ultimate all-in-one nutritional supplement. Plus, our podcast subscribers score exclusive freebies! 💚 🌵If vaginal dryness or discomfort is disrupting your day, Womaness's Melt For You inserts offer a gentle, deeply restorative way to find relief. Completely hormone-free and safe to use alongside HRT, these applicator-free suppositories use hyaluronic and lactic acids to naturally replenish moisture, stabilize hydration, and support your vaginal microbiome. Because supporting your body through menopause means feeling comfortable and confident in your own skin. Head to womaness.com and use code LOVELY for a discount. 💧If you're noticing fine lines, wrinkles, or sagging skin — thanks menopause —ugh, me too. Menopause can deplete your skin's collagen, speeding up aging. But here's the game-changer: Vitali Skincare has built its entire line on the power of GHK-Cu copper peptides — a proven ingredient that signals your skin's stem cells to produce new, healthy collagen. Head to vitaliskincare.com and use the code LOVELY at checkout for 20% off. Be sure to check out the Vita exosome serum for less saggy, dull skin. 💙 How to work with Dr. Lovely: We get many requests for this info, so here it is! First off, thank you for listening to the NYMM podcast. It's because of your support - listening and sharing the episodes and using our product links, we can continue to dispense this information.❤️ Thank you! 🙏🏼 Follow Dr. Lovely on IG and TikTok : @drfionalovely Follow the podcast on Facebook: www.facebook.com/@notyourmothersmenopausepodcast Please sign up for our newsletter - Fiona's Friday Favourites! This is where we make the first announcements, share course offerings, drop new episodes, blog posts and the coveted 'Fiona's Favourites' column, etc. drlovely.com to sign up to the email list and get our 5 brain health tools for menopause guide! Finally, a humble request: If you love the podcast, please leave us a review! It helps more people find useful info for a challenging time: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/not-your-mothers-menopause-with-dr-fiona-lovely/id1097326296 Please scroll to the bottom of the page to leave a review. Thank you! 💕🤗 Partnerships by Category3 Media Group

In this empowering episode, Dr. Fiona Lovely welcomes nurse practitioner Shelby Sheppard, a trusted hormone and sexual health expert who has been caring for Dr. Lovely's own patients for years. Shelby's journey from labor and delivery RN to founding Pause Health reflects her deep commitment to offering women the time, space, and personalized care they deserve—something that simply cannot happen in the standard medical seven-minute appointment. The conversation opens with the remarkable story of how Shelby helped a patient navigate postpartum depression using supplemental progesterone, challenging conventional medical dogma. They then dive into the blind spots of thyroid care, explaining why TSH alone is an unreliable marker and why T4-only medications often leave women feeling unwell. Shelby shares her philosophy of offering patients a menu of options rather than a one-size-fits-all approach. They explore the newly renamed PMOS (Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome) from PCOS, the underutilized role of testosterone in women's health, and the profound impact of GLP-1 medications on metabolic health and mental well-being. The episode also addresses sexual health, pleasure anatomy, and why women deserve to feel plugged back in—not just for sex, but for life. Together, they talk about: Why progesterone can be a game-changer for postpartum mood support as well as perimenopausal sleep disturbances, anxiety and others. The limitations of TSH testing for thyroid and why free T3 and reverse T3 matter. How GLP-1s combined with hormone therapy offer superior metabolic results. Testosterone's role in motivation, confidence, and overall vitality. Practical tips for navigating libido changes and communicating with partners. Tune in to learn why women's health is not a one-size-fits-all prescription—and how to become your own best advocate. Connect with Shelby: Website: www.pausehealth.ca Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pause_health Thank you to our sponsors for this episode: 🧪Women in perimenopause and menopause talk about wanting the same things — less bloating, no afternoon crash after eating, steady energy. MassZymes is perfect for helping your body's ability to actually process what you eat. MassZymes uses a full-spectrum blend of 18 enzymes. That means you're getting more out of the food you eat. Plus, it works across different stomach acid levels, which can really matter as we age. Here's what you get when you go to bioptimizers.com/lovely and use code LOVELY for 15% off your order! 🌵If vaginal dryness or discomfort is disrupting your day, Womaness's Melt For You inserts offer a gentle, deeply restorative way to find relief. Completely hormone-free and safe to use alongside HRT, these applicator-free suppositories use hyaluronic and lactic acids to naturally replenish moisture, stabilize hydration, and support your vaginal microbiome. Because supporting your body through menopause means feeling comfortable and confident in your own skin. Head to womaness.com and use code LOVELY for a special discount. How to work with Dr. Lovely: We get many requests for this info, so here it is! First off, thank you for listening to the NYMM podcast. It's because of your support - listening and sharing the episodes and using our product links, we can continue to dispense this information.❤️ Thank you! 🙏🏼 Follow Dr. Lovely on IG and TikTok : @drfionalovely Follow the podcast on Facebook: www.facebook.com/@notyourmothersmenopausepodcast Please sign up for our newsletter - Fiona's Friday Favourites! This is where we make the first announcements, share course offerings, drop new episodes, blog posts and the coveted 'Fiona's Favourites' column, etc. drlovely.com to sign up to the email list and get our 5 brain health tools for menopause guide! Finally, a humble request: If you love the podcast, please leave us a review! It helps more people find useful info for a challenging time: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/not-your-mothers-menopause-with-dr-fiona-lovely/id1097326296 Please scroll to the bottom of the page to leave a review. Thank you! 💕🤗 Partnerships by Category3 Media Group

In this deeply transformative episode, Dr. Fiona Lovely welcomes Jeffrey Tambor, a seasoned healer and co-founder of The Thriving Institute™, who has dedicated over two decades to understanding and resolving trauma at its deepest roots. Alongside his partner, Dr. Valerie Rein—who pioneered the concept of Patriarchy Stress Disorder (PSD)—Jeffrey brings a unique perspective on how inherited stress and conditioning live in women's bodies, often without their conscious awareness. Jeffrey shares his personal journey from a debilitating depression in his youth to becoming a guide for women navigating the often turbulent waters of perimenopause and menopause. Together, they explore the concept of PSD - Patriarchy Stress Disorder, explaining how trauma from this life and from generations past—both the big "T" and little "t" varieties—gets passed down epigenetically and manifests as that nagging feeling of never being enough. He discusses why traditional talk therapy and mindset work often fall short when addressing these inherited patterns and offers hope that healing can be faster and more accessible than most women realize. Jeffrey reframes perimenopause not as a crisis to be managed, but as a powerful invitation to shed old identities, reclaim sovereignty, and step into a life of full aliveness. The conversation also touches on how men can show up as conscious allies, the liberating power of rage, and why the world desperately needs awakened grandmothers leading the way. Episode Highlights: What Patriarchy Stress Disorder (PSD) is and how it differs from personal trauma. Why the feeling of "never being enough" often has nothing to do with you personally. How perimenopause serves as an invitation to shed old conditioning and step into authentic power. The difference between processing trauma personally versus addressing inherited ancestral patterns. How to begin moving from survival mode into a state of true thriving and embodiment. Find out more at https://drvalerie.com/ Follow them on Youtube | LinkedIn | IG | FB Tune in to discover that there is nothing wrong with you—and that the freedom you've been longing for is closer than you think. Thank you to our sponsors for this episode: 😴 Introducing AGZ from AG1 - the nightly drink for winding down and resting up. It's a melatonin-free formula with clinically-studied ingredients like valerian, ashwagandha, saffron, and magnesium L-threonate to support your body's natural sleep cycle. If you're ready to turn down the stress and focus on the rest, head to drinkag1.com/fionalovely . 🤰The transition through midlife often brings a frustrating trio of shifts: the stubborn bloating, those unpredictable energy swings, and changes to the midsection that feel completely outside of your control. Harnessing the power of S-Equol, B. breve, and chromium, this formula is uniquely designed to support healthy estrogen signaling and metabolic function. It's about more than just numbers; it's about stabilizing blood sugar, restoring gut comfort, and supporting a healthy body composition so you can feel like yourself again. Go to www.mitoq.com and use code LOVELY10 for 10% off your first order! 🌵If vaginal dryness or discomfort is disrupting your day, Womaness's Melt For You inserts offer a gentle, deeply restorative way to find relief. Completely hormone-free and safe to use alongside HRT, these applicator-free suppositories use hyaluronic and lactic acids to naturally replenish moisture, stabilize hydration, and support your vaginal microbiome. Because supporting your body through menopause means feeling comfortable and confident in your own skin. Head to womaness.com and use code LOVELY. How to work with Dr. Lovely: We get many requests for this info, so here it is! First off, thank you for listening to the NYMM podcast. It's because of your support - listening and sharing the episodes and using our product links, we can continue to dispense this information.❤️ Thank you! 🙏🏼 Follow Dr. Lovely on IG and TikTok : @drfionalovely Follow the podcast on Facebook: www.facebook.com/@notyourmothersmenopausepodcast Please sign up for our newsletter - Fiona's Friday Favourites! This is where we make the first announcements, share course offerings, drop new episodes, blog posts and the coveted 'Fiona's Favourites' column, etc. drlovely.com to sign up to the email list and get our 5 brain health tools for menopause guide! Finally, a humble request: If you love the podcast, please leave us a review! It helps more people find useful info for a challenging time: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/not-your-mothers-menopause-with-dr-fiona-lovely/id1097326296 Please scroll to the bottom of the page to leave a review. Thank you! 💕🤗 Partnerships by Category3 Media Group

What if the key to reducing stress, taming inflammation, and building true resilience was already wired inside you? In this illuminating episode, Dr. Fiona Lovely welcomes fellow chiropractor and functional medicine expert Dr. Navaz Habib, bestselling author of Activate Your Vagus Nerve and Upgrade Your Vagus Nerve, to explore the body's most underappreciated healing pathway. Dr. Habib shares his personal journey from chronic health struggles to discovering functional medicine, which led him to a powerful realization: uncontrolled inflammation is the common thread behind most chronic illnesses, and the vagus nerve holds the master switch. He breaks down why eighty percent of vagus nerve signals travel from the body to the brain—not the other way around—and how this changes everything for women navigating perimenopause. Listeners will learn why declining estrogen leaves them more vulnerable to inflammation, how heart rate variability serves as a window into nervous system health, and why protecting sleep is non-negotiable. Dr. Habib also delivers a memorable distinction between comfort and safety, explaining why scrolling a phone may feel soothing but never truly calming. He then offers three practical pillars of vagus nerve training: nasal breathing, diaphragmatic breathing, and longer exhales, with simple temperature therapy to build adaptive capacity. Episode Highlights: Why chronic inflammation is the common path behind most modern illnesses. The surprising truth is that 80% of vagus nerve signals travel from organs to the brain. How declining estrogen during perimenopause worsens inflammation without a strong vagus nerve. The critical difference between comfort and safety—and why your phone can't give you either. Three specific breathing techniques to build vagal tone and increase heart rate variability. Simple temperature contrast methods to build resilience, starting with just twenty seconds. Tune in to learn how to stop seeking comfort and start building the nervous system resilience every woman in midlife deserves. Thank you to our sponsors for this episode: If you're noticing fine lines, wrinkles, or sagging skin — thanks menopause —ugh, me too. Menopause can deplete your skin's collagen, speeding up aging. But here's the game-changer: Vitali Skincare has built its entire line on the power of GHK-Cu copper peptides — a proven ingredient that signals your skin's stem cells to produce new, healthy collagen. Head to vitaliskincare.com and use the code LOVELY at checkout for 20% off. Be sure to check out the Vita exosome serum for less saggy, dull skin. Women in perimenopause and menopause talk about wanting the same things — less bloating, no afternoon crash after eating, steady energy. MassZymes is perfect for helping your body's ability to actually process what you eat. MassZymes uses a full-spectrum blend of 18 enzymes. That means you're getting more out of the food you eat. Plus, it works across different stomach acid levels, which can really matter as we age. Here's what you get when you go to bioptimizers.com/lovely and use code LOVELY for 15% off your entire order. How to work with Dr. Lovely: We get many requests for this info, so here it is! First off, thank you for listening to the NYMM podcast. It's because of your support, we can continue to dispense this information.❤️ Follow Dr. Lovely on IG and TikTok : @drfionalovely Follow the podcast on Facebook: www.facebook.com/@notyourmothersmenopausepodcast Please sign up for our newsletter - Fiona's Friday Favourites! This is where we make the first announcements, share course offerings, drop new episodes, blog posts and the coveted 'Fiona's Favourites' column, etc. drlovely.com You can also find some great resources there! Finally, a humble request: If you love the podcast, please leave us a review! It helps more people find useful info for a challenging time: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/not-your-mothers-menopause-with-dr-fiona-lovely/id1097326296 Please scroll to the bottom of the page to leave a review. Thank you! 💕🤗 Partnerships by Category3 Media Group

If you have ever stood in front of your refrigerator wondering how on earth you are supposed to eat 100 grams of protein a day without turning mealtime into a second job, this episode is for you. In this conversation, Dr. Fiona Lovely welcomes Liz Baker Plosser, former Editor-in-Chief of Women's Health magazine and author of Own Your Morning. Liz has spent more than two decades translating health research for women, and she is here to cut through the noise on protein, essential amino acids, and creatine for midlife. Liz and Dr. Lovely discuss why our bodies become less efficient at using protein as estrogen declines, and why aiming for 100 grams or more daily is not about diet culture but about protecting muscle, brain function, and overall energy. They break down the distinct roles of essential amino acids for repair and recovery versus creatine for strength and cognitive performance, including new research showing creatine can help sharpen the brain after a broken night of sleep. Liz also shares how she uses a simple morning supplement routine as an insurance policy, allowing her to live flexibly without obsessing over every meal. For any woman who has felt overwhelmed by the conflicting advice on social media or dismissed midlife fatigue as normal, this episode offers a clear, science-backed path forward. To get the essential amino acid supplement we speak about in this episode go to: getkion.com/lovely to get 20% off! You can find Liz Baker Plosser on Instagram @lizplosser and on her Substack, Best Case Scenario, at substack.lizplosser.com. Thank you to our sponsors for this episode: 🌱 Ready to level up your nutrition? Check out AG1 for nutritional insurance on busy days! Visit our partner page here , to discover the ultimate all-in-one nutritional supplement. Plus, our podcast subscribers score exclusive freebies! 💚 💙🌿BEAM Minerals to help with stress related depletion - this is your 2026 pro-health move! Did you know that chronic stress can zap your energy and your minerals? You FEEL better quickly, with this easy to take supplement - replenishing all lost minerals. Give BEAM a try - beamminerals.com and use the code LOVELY for 20% off your first order! The transition through midlife often brings a frustrating trio of shifts: the stubborn bloating, those unpredictable energy swings, and changes to the midsection that feel completely outside of your control. Harnessing the power of S-Equol, B. breve, and chromium, this formula is uniquely designed to support healthy estrogen signaling and metabolic function. It's about more than just numbers; it's about stabilizing blood sugar, restoring gut comfort, and supporting a healthy body composition so you can feel like yourself again. Go to www.mitoq.com and use code LOVELY10 for 10% off your first order! How to work with Dr. Lovely: We get many requests for this info, so here it is! First off, thank you for listening to the NYMM podcast. It's because of your support, we can continue to dispense this information.❤️ Follow Dr. Lovely on IG and TikTok: @drfionalovely Follow the podcast on Facebook: www.facebook.com/@notyourmothersmenopausepodcast Please sign up for our newsletter - Fiona's Friday Favourites! This is where we make the first announcements, share course offerings, drop new episodes, blog posts and the coveted 'Fiona's Favourites' column, etc. drlovely.com You can also find some great resources there! Finally, a humble request: If you love the podcast, please leave us a review! It helps more people find useful info for a challenging time: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/not-your-mothers-menopause-with-dr-fiona-lovely/id1097326296 Please scroll to the bottom of the page to leave a review. Thank you! 💕🤗 Partnerships by Category3 Media Group

In this episode of Not Your Mother's Menopause, Dr. Fiona Lovely welcomes award-winning journalist Meghan Rabbitt, author of The New Rules of Women's Health. Meghan shares how her own health journey—from dismissing severe symptoms to discovering a uterus full of fibroids—led her to write a comprehensive guide for women. She explains why the old "bikini medicine" approach is insufficient and how conditions like pregnancy complications and severe hot flashes can signal future heart disease risk. Importantly, Meghan reframes menopause as a brain shift, not just an ovarian one, and offers practical tools for navigating medical appointments with confidence. Episode Highlights: Why keeping a "reporter's notebook" of symptoms can transform your doctor's visit. The importance of asking for a lifetime breast cancer risk assessment, such as the Tyrer-Cuzick model (find it here.) How women's pain is often dismissed and why boasting about high pain tolerance can delay necessary treatment. The evolving understanding of hormone therapy, including why many clinicians now prefer the term "menopause hormone therapy." Practical advice on using vaginal estrogen and the value of consulting your pharmacist. You know your body better than anyone. Bring that notebook to your next appointment and ask the questions that matter. For guidance to support those conversations, grab a copy of The New Rules of Women's Health . Connect with Meghan: Website: https://newrulesofwomenshealth.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meghanrabbitt/ Thank you to our sponsors for this episode: If you're noticing fine lines, wrinkles, or sagging skin — thanks menopause —ugh, me too. Menopause can deplete your skin's collagen, speeding up aging. But here's the game-changer: Vitali Skincare has built its entire line on the power of GHK-Cu copper peptides — a proven ingredient that signals your skin's stem cells to produce new, healthy collagen. Head to vitaliskincare.com and use the code LOVELY at checkout for 20% off. Be sure to check out the Vita exosome serum for less saggy, dull skin. 😴 Introducing AGZ from AG1 - the nightly drink for winding down and resting up. It's a melatonin-free formula with clinically-studied ingredients like valerian, ashwagandha, saffron, and magnesium L-threonate to support your body's natural sleep cycle. If you're ready to turn down the stress and focus on the rest, head to drinkag1.com/ . You'll get a FREE Frother with your first purchase of AGZ. How to work with Dr. Lovely: We get many requests for this info, so here it is! First off, thank you for listening to the NYMM podcast. It's because of your support, we can continue to dispense this information.❤️ Follow Dr. Lovely on IG and TikTok : @drfionalovely Follow the podcast on Facebook: www.facebook.com/@notyourmothersmenopausepodcast Please sign up for our newsletter - Fiona's Friday Favourites! This is where we make the first announcements, share course offerings, drop new episodes, blog posts and the coveted 'Fiona's Favourites' column, etc. drlovely.com You can also find some great resources there! Finally, a humble request: If you love the podcast, please leave us a review! It helps more people find useful info for a challenging time: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/not-your-mothers-menopause-with-dr-fiona-lovely/id1097326296 Please scroll to the bottom of the page to leave a review. Thank you! 💕🤗 Partnerships by Category3 Media Group

In this episode, Dr. Fiona Lovely welcomes two distinguished guests who are reshaping the conversation around women's pelvic health. Dr. Christine Vaccaro, a double board-certified urogynecologist and reconstructive pelvic surgeon, brings her expertise in clitoral anatomy, interstitial cystitis, and the critical role of both estrogen and testosterone in bladder function. She is joined by Heather Florio, CEO of Desert Harvest, whose decades of research-driven work offer practical solutions for those suffering from chronic bladder pain. Together, they discuss why conditions like interstitial cystitis are so frequently misdiagnosed as recurrent UTIs, how androgen-blocking medications can have lasting effects on the pelvic floor, and why a thorough, systematic pelvic exam remains the gold standard for accurate diagnosis. The conversation also explores the similarities between male and female anatomy in development (we all begin with a clitoris!), the importance of self-exploration for maintaining intimacy, and the growing need for better clinician education on menopause and sexual medicine. No matter what you are experiencing, this conversation offers clarity, compassion, and a path forward. Connect with the guests : Dr. Christine Vaccaro: @drchristinevaccaro on Instagram Heather Florio: Instagram ( @hmflorio ) | X ( @DesertHarvest ) | TikTok ( @desertharvest ) Thank you to our sponsors for this episode: If you're noticing fine lines, wrinkles, or sagging skin — thanks menopause —ugh, me too. Menopause can deplete your skin's collagen, speeding up aging. But here's the game-changer: Vitali Skincare has built its entire line on the power of GHK-Cu copper peptides — a proven ingredient that signals your skin's stem cells to produce new, healthy collagen. Head to vitaliskincare.com and use the code LOVELY at checkout for 20% off. Women in perimenopause and menopause talk about wanting the same things — less bloating, no afternoon crash after eating, steady energy. MassZymes is perfect for helping your body's ability to actually process what you eat. MassZymes uses a full-spectrum blend of 18 enzymes. That means you're getting more out of the food you eat. Plus, it works across different stomach acid levels, which can really matter as we age. Here's what you get when you go to bioptimizers.com/lovely and use code LOVELY: 15% off your entire order + A free bottle of Masszymes — BiOptimizers' best-selling digestive enzyme — added to your order automatically when you use our exclusive code. If night sweats and restless sleep are disrupting your rest, Cozy Earth's bamboo sheets and pajama sets are temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking — designed to sleep several degrees cooler than cotton. Because supporting your body through menopause starts with how you sleep. Visit cozyearth.com and use code LOVELY for 20% off. How to work with Dr. Lovely: We get many requests for this info, so here it is! First off, thank you for listening to the NYMM podcast. It's because of your support, we can continue to dispense this information.❤️ Follow Dr. Lovely on IG and TikTok : @drfionalovely Follow the podcast on Facebook: www.facebook.com/@notyourmothersmenopausepodcast Please sign up for our newsletter - Fiona's Friday Favourites! This is where we make the first announcements, share course offerings, drop new episodes, blog posts and the coveted 'Fiona's Favourites' column, etc. drlovely.com You can also find some great resources there! Finally, a humble request: If you love the podcast, please leave us a review! It helps more people find useful info for a challenging time: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/not-your-mothers-menopause-with-dr-fiona-lovely/id1097326296 Please scroll to the bottom of the page to leave a review. Thank you! 💕🤗 Partnerships by Category3 Media Group

Dr. Fiona Lovely welcomes back Dr. Siobhan Mitchell, Chief Scientific Officer of MitoQ and an expert in nutritional neuroscience, for a conversation that digs deeper into the metabolic shifts women experience at midlife. Dr. Mitchell explains how declining estrogen directly impacts mitochondrial health, which in turn affects everything from energy levels and muscle strength to where the body stores fat. Listeners will learn why the same diet and exercise routines may stop working during perimenopause, and why that stubborn belly fat is not a personal failure but a biological response to changing hormones. Dr. Mitchell discusses the protective role of estrogen, the emerging understanding of the estrobolome, and practical options for support including HRT, phytoestrogens from sources like soy, and the lesser-known compound S-equol. She also shares what she wishes she had known earlier about stress and risk-taking, offering a personal insight that may resonate with many listeners navigating midlife changes. Episode Highlights: How declining estrogen leads to reduced mitochondrial function, affecting energy, muscle strength, and inflammation throughout the body Why women gain visceral belly fat during perimenopause even when diet and exercise have not changed How the estrobolome, or gut bacteria responsible for recycling estrogen, can be supported to improve metabolic outcomes The role of phytoestrogens and S-equol, including why only about twenty percent of Western women can produce this beneficial compound naturally How HRT, phytoestrogens, and targeted supplements can work together or separately to support women through the menopausal transition This episode offers a clear roadmap for women who want to understand what is happening inside their bodies and take informed steps toward maintaining their health through the menopausal transition. Thank you to our sponsors for this episode: The transition through midlife often brings a frustrating trio of shifts: the stubborn bloating, those unpredictable energy swings, and changes to the midsection that feel completely outside of your control. Harnessing the power of S-Equol, B. breve, and chromium, this formula is uniquely designed to support healthy estrogen signaling and metabolic function. It's about more than just numbers; it's about stabilizing blood sugar, restoring gut comfort, and supporting a healthy body composition so you can feel like yourself again. Go to www.mitoq.com and use code LOVELY10 for 10% off your first order! If night sweats and restless sleep are disrupting your rest, Cozy Earth's bamboo sheets and pajama sets are temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking — designed to sleep several degrees cooler than cotton. Because supporting your body through menopause starts with how you sleep. Visit cozyearth.com and use code LOVELY for 20% off. Dr. Fiona Lovely is a longevity, health and wellness expert with specialties in menopause medicine, functional neurology and functional medicine. She is speaking to the topics of women's health around perimenopause and menopause. How to work with Dr. Lovely: We get many requests for this info, so here it is! First off, thank you for listening to the NYMM podcast. It's because of your support, we can continue to dispense this information.❤️ Follow Dr. Lovely on IG and TikTok : @drfionalovely Follow the podcast on Facebook: www.facebook.com/@notyourmothersmenopausepodcast Please sign up for our newsletter - Fiona's Friday Favourites! This is where we make the first announcements, share course offerings, drop new episodes, blog posts and the coveted 'Fiona's Favourites' column, etc. drlovely.com You can also find some great resources there! Finally, a humble request: If you love the podcast, please leave us a review! It helps more people find useful info for a challenging time: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/not-your-mothers-menopause-with-dr-fiona-lovely/id1097326296 Please scroll to the bottom of the page to leave a review. Thank you! 💕🤗 Partnerships by Category3 Media Group

In this powerful episode, Dr. Fiona Lovely welcomes back her friend and colleague, Dr. Amie Hornaman—known globally as "The Thyroid Fixer." Dr. Amie is a functional medicine expert, host of the top-rated The Thyroid Fixer podcast, and author of the new book The Thyroid Fix: The No-Nonsense Guide to Reclaiming Your Health . Together, they pull back the curtain on why conventional medicine continues to fail women when it comes to thyroid and hormone health. Dr. Amie shares her journey of being misdiagnosed and how that fueled her mission to help women stop wishing on a rainbow for their health to improve. She explains why relying solely on TSH and T4 is a dangerous gamble, revealing that the real story lies in free T3 and reverse T3. Listeners will learn why T4-only medication like Synthroid often falls short and how to advocate for proper testing and treatment. The conversation also explores the forgotten thyroid hormone T2, its role in burning fat without losing muscle, and how GLP-1 medications intersect with thyroid function. Dr. Amie provides scripted, respectful language for women to use with their doctors, including a powerful "nuclear option" to ensure their concerns are documented. Episode Highlights: Why TSH is a misleading marker and which two tests truly matter for thyroid health. The problem with T4-only medication and why it can backfire. How to approach your doctor without overwhelming them—three bullet points, no life stories. The fascinating role of T2 in metabolism and weight loss. A candid discussion on thyroid nodules, unnecessary surgeries, and patient advocacy. Tune in to learn how to become the CEO of your own health, because waiting for your doctor to catch up is no longer an option. Thank you to our sponsors for this episode : Women in perimenopause and menopause talk about wanting the same things — less bloating, no afternoon crash after eating, steady energy. MassZymes is perfect for helping your body's ability to actually process what you eat. MassZymes uses a full-spectrum blend of 18 enzymes. That means you're getting more out of the food you eat. Plus, it works across different stomach acid levels, which can really matter as we age. Here's what you get when you go to bioptimizers.com/lovely and use code LOVELY: 15% off your entire order AND a free bottle of Masszymes — BiOptimizers' best-selling digestive enzyme — added to your order automatically when you use our exclusive code. 💙🌿BEAM Minerals to help with stress related depletion - this is your 2026 pro-health move! Did you know that chronic stress can zap your energy and your minerals? You FEEL better quickly, with this easy to take supplement - replenishing all lost minerals. Give BEAM a try - beamminerals.com and use the code LOVELY for 20% off your first order! If you're noticing fine lines, wrinkles, or sagging skin — thanks menopause —ugh, me too. Menopause can deplete your skin's collagen, speeding up aging. But here's the game-changer: Vitali Skincare has built its entire line on the power of GHK-Cu copper peptides — a proven ingredient that signals your skin's stem cells to produce new, healthy collagen. Head to vitaliskincare.com and use the code LOVELY at checkout for 20% off. Dr. Fiona Lovely is a longevity, health and wellness expert with specialties in menopause medicine, functional neurology and functional medicine. She is speaking to the topics of women's health around perimenopause and menopause. How to work with Dr. Lovely: We get many requests for this info, so here it is! First off, thank you for listening to the NYMM podcast. It's because of your support, we can continue to dispense this information.❤️ Follow Dr. Lovely on IG and TikTok : @drfionalovely Follow the podcast on Facebook: www.facebook.com/@notyourmothersmenopausepodcast Please sign up for our newsletter - Fiona's Friday Favourites! This is where we make the first announcements, share course offerings, drop new episodes, blog posts and the coveted 'Fiona's Favourites' column, etc. drlovely.com You can also find some great resources there! Finally, a humble request: If you love the podcast, please leave us a review! It helps more people find useful info for a challenging time: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/not-your-mothers-menopause-with-dr-fiona-lovely/id1097326296 Please scroll to the bottom of the page to leave a review. Thank you! 💕🤗 Partnerships by Category3 Media Group

In this episode, Dr. Fiona Lovely welcomes back friend Andrea Donsky, the nutritionist, author, podcaster and seven-time published menopause researcher known to her 350,000 TikTok followers as the "Menopause Educator and Researcher." Did you know there are 103 documented menopause symptoms? Andrea shares groundbreaking updates to her peer-reviewed research published in the Journal of Menopause, including the stunning finding that hot flashes are no longer even among the top ten most common symptoms (and yet, medicine guidelines still use it as the benchmark for when a woman is in menopause.) Andrea and Dr. Lovely discuss medical dismissal, the surprising reality of phantom smells like burning toast, and why under-eating actually raises cortisol and increases belly fat. Finally, we talk about Andrea's new book: Nourishing Menopause , is available now from Simon and Schuster. Listeners are encouraged to visit wearemorphus.com to contribute to her ongoing research and help change the conversation for women everywhere. Follow Andrea on TikTok and Instagram @andreadonsky and @wearemorphus to learn more. Episode Highlights: - Why hot flashes fell from number ten to number eleven on the symptom list - The shocking average of thirty-one symptoms per woman, many of them brain-based (especially the top ten!) - How phantom smells affect nearly three quarters of women - Why being gentler with yourself is essential for managing stress Andrea's new book, Nourishing Menopause , is available now from Simon and Schuster. Listeners are encouraged to visit wearemorphus.com to contribute to her ongoing research and help change the conversation for women everywhere. Follow Andrea on TikTok and Instagram @andreadonsky and @wearemorphus to learn more. TikTok: @andreadonksy and @wearemorphus Instagram: @andreadonsky and @wearemorphus Thank you to our sponsors for this episode: 🌱 Ready to level up your nutrition? Check out AG1 for nutritional insurance on busy days! Visit our partner page here , to discover the ultimate all-in-one nutritional supplement. Plus, our podcast subscribers score exclusive freebies! 💚 ✨Did you know that estrogen actually helps to protect our heart? When estrogen starts to diminish as we head to menopause, we have more oxidative stress on our arteries. Thankfully, MitoQ has a special anti-oxidant Mitoquinol that boosts our mitochondria and limits that stress. Even better they have a new product called Hormonal Metabolic Control that is specifically for us women. You can check it out at MitoQ.com . Use LOVELY10 for 10% off your first order. Dr. Fiona Lovely is a longevity, health and wellness expert with specialties in menopause medicine, functional neurology and functional medicine. She is speaking to the topics of women's health around perimenopause and menopause. How to work with Dr. Lovely: We get many requests for this info, so here it is! First off, thank you for listening to the NYMM podcast. It's because of your support, we can continue to dispense this information.❤️ Follow Dr. Lovely on IG and TikTok : @drfionalovely Follow the podcast on Facebook: www.facebook.com/@notyourmothersmenopausepodcast Please sign up for our newsletter - Fiona's Friday Favourites! This is where we make the first announcements, share course offerings, drop new episodes, blog posts and the coveted 'Fiona's Favourites' column, etc. drlovely.com You can also find some great resources there! Finally, a humble request: If you love the podcast, please leave us a review! It helps more people find useful info for a challenging time: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/not-your-mothers-menopause-with-dr-fiona-lovely/id1097326296 Please scroll to the bottom of the page to leave a review. Thank you! 💕🤗 Partnerships by Category3 Media Group