Not Your Mother's Menopause With Dr. Fiona Lovely

Today we hear from Dr. Fiona Lovely as she explains her journey to becoming a Menopause Doula and the start of the movement she is creating to help women support women.  She discusses the Menopause Doula Matrix and the 8 pillars of health that are affected by the renovation our bodies undergo during this season of life we call menopause. If you are feeling called to know more about this movement, we are meeting again Wednesday November 19th at 10am MT.  Register at menopausedoulacouncil.com to receive the links to the webinar and replays.   Thank you to our sponsors for this episode:

In this powerful and personal episode of the Not Your Mother's Menopause Podcast, Dr. Fiona Lovely is joined by her longtime friend, Dr. Vanda Corbett, to pull back the curtain on one of women's health's most devastating secrets: adenomyosis. Often called the "evil twin" of endometriosis, this condition affects a staggering 25-60% of women, yet remains shrouded in misinformation and diagnostic neglect. Dr. Corbett, a wellness professional with a doctorate in chiropractic and a master's in positive psychology, shares her own harrowing journey with adenomyosis, detailing the severe pain and debilitating heavy bleeding that were normalized and dismissed by multiple medical professionals. She recounts being presented with only two bleak options: a lifetime of powerful opioids or a hysterectomy. This candid conversation then takes a turn toward profound hope as Dr. Corbett reveals how a connection made through this very podcast led her to a life-changing, non-invasive treatment halfway across the world. She provid

Get ready to have your mind blown by one of the most exciting frontiers in health science. In this episode of the Not Your Mother's Menopause Podcast, I'm sitting down with the incredibly knowledgeable Kyal Van Der Leest, an Australian Nutritionist and Naturopath who is truly pioneering the future of wellness.  If you've heard the term "peptides" buzzing around but aren't quite sure what they are or how they could revolutionize your health, especially during the hormonal shifts of menopause, this conversation is your essential guide. We dive deep into the fascinating world of peptides, explaining them not as foreign chemicals, but as the body's own innate messengers that speak its language fluently. Kyal masterfully breaks down how these powerful chains of amino acids act as targeted instructions for healing, regeneration, and repair in a way that traditional supplements and pharmaceuticals simply can't.  The conversation gets particularly illuminating as we explore the profound gut-brain connection and how a

✨In this special bonus episode of the Not Your Mother's Menopause podcast, I share my own story of becoming a menopause coach for women.  For 20 years, I've walked beside women in midlife — through the confusion, the hot flashes, the anxiety, the sleepless nights, and the deep questioning of "what is happening to me?"   I share the surprising (and unexpected) story of the very first patient I helped and how it lit a fire in me that burns bright to this day!  

Forget everything you thought you knew about aging skin! In this spooky Halloween episode, Dr. Fiona Lovely is joined by Debbi Barber, the inspiring founder of Vitali Skincare, to banish the fear of "scary menopause skin" for good. Debbi shares her incredible personal journey from a 37-year marketing career to becoming a skincare innovator after a life-changing discovery. She opens up about her own experience with crepey skin and fine lines, which led her to the powerful, healing properties of the "blue peptide," GHK-Cu, under the guidance of her mentor, peptide expert Dr. Suzanne Ferree. This is a masterclass in clean, effective skincare for the second half of life. Debbi and Fiona dive deep into why our skin changes so dramatically during menopause, the critical importance of protecting your skin barrier, and the common mistakes we make with exfoliation. They pull back the curtain on the truth about hidden ingredients like "fragrance" and discuss why Debbi is so passionate about creating products free from

In this episode of Not Your Mother's Menopause,  Dr. Fiona Lovely is joined by Dr. Siobhan Matthews, a neuroscientist and Chief Scientific Officer at MitoQ, for a profound discussion on the pivotal role of mitochondria in brain health and aging. Dr. Matthews, whose career was inspired by her grandmother's experience with Alzheimer's, shares her extensive research journey on mitochondrial science, anti-aging the brain and nutritional neuroscience. The conversation illuminates the critical connection between mitochondrial health and the cognitive changes many women experience during perimenopause and menopause. Dr. Matthews explains how the decline in estrogen can directly impact mitochondrial function in the brain, potentially leading to symptoms like brain fog and fatigue. She provides insightful information on how supporting cellular energy production and protecting against oxidative stress can be a powerful strategy for maintaining cognitive vitality. The discussion also explores the broader implications of

In this powerful and thought-provoking episode of "Not Your Mother's Menopause," host Dr. Fiona Lovely welcomes back integrative oncologist and breast surgeon Dr. Jenn Simmons for their annual conversation. As we enter Breast Health Awareness Month, Dr. Simmons presents a compelling critique of the current screening paradigm, challenging long-held beliefs about mammograms. She delves into the concerning issue of over-diagnosis, explaining how finding and treating certain conditions, like DCIS, may not correlate with saving lives and can instead lead to unnecessary treatments with significant side effects. The discussion offers a hopeful path forward, focusing on true prevention and empowering women with knowledge. Dr. Simmons introduces innovative, less invasive screening options and emphasizes the foundational principle that breast health is overall health. She also tackles the controversial topic of hormone replacement therapy after a breast cancer diagnosis, sharing her clinical perspective on its safety a

In this episode of Not Your Mother’s Menopause, Dr. Fiona Lovely welcomes back gerontologist and podcaster Zora Benhamou for a deeply personal discussion on her recent bilateral hip replacement surgery at just 54 years old. What begins as a conversation about lifestyle and health choices unfolds into an honest exploration of living with chronic pain, the challenges of delaying surgery, and the emotional weight of making such a life-altering decision. Zora shares her years-long effort to manage pain and preserve mobility without surgical intervention, and the turning point that ultimately led her to pursue hip replacement. Together, she and Dr. Lovely discuss the multifaceted contributors to early osteoarthritis, from genetics and lifestyle factors to the potential influence of menopause and shifting hormone levels. They also touch on the vital role of muscle strength in recovery, the importance of choosing healthcare providers you can trust, and the empowerment that comes with advocating for your own well-bei

In this episode of Not Your Mother's Menopause Podcast, Dr. Fiona Lovely is joined by Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist and Founder of Rucking Women, Colleen Flaherty.  For years, Colleen has been a guiding force in women's health, teaching how to cultivate stronger, more mobile bodies for healthier pregnancies, positive body relationships, and optimal recoveries. Now, she brings her extensive expertise to the menopause conversation, focusing on a powerful, simple, and transformative fitness trend: rucking. Discover why rucking—the straightforward act of walking with a weighted backpack or vest—is becoming a solid tactic for women in perimenopause and beyond. Colleen breaks down how this accessible practice is a game-changer for building crucial bone density, enhancing muscle strength, and boosting metabolic health without the strain of high-impact workouts. She and Dr. Lovely delve into why it’s time to move away from frantic cardio and embrace strength-based movements that honor our changing ho

In this solo episode of the Not Your Mother's Menopause Podcast, Dr. Fiona Lovely provides a vital and compassionate guide to the Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM). She begins by explaining that the GSM is a spectrum of symptoms affecting the genitourinary tract due to declining estrogen and androgenic hormones (like testosterone and DHEA) during the menopause transition. Dr. Lovely details the common yet often unspoken symptoms, which can include vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, urinary urgency, recurrent bladder infections, and changes in libido and sensation. She emphasizes that these changes are not something to suffer through in silence and offers clear, actionable solutions. We discuss treatment using low-dose vaginal estrogen, a safe and effective option for nearly everyone that directly addresses the root cause of tissue thinning and fragility. Dr. Lovely provides practical application advice and recommends specific formulations. Beyond treatment, she encourages open communication with ou

In this enlightening episode of Not Your Mother's Menopause, host Dr. Fiona Lovely welcomes Dr. Alan Bauman, a board-certified hair restoration physician with over 28 years of experience. Dr. Bauman, founder and CEO of Bauman Medical, shares his extensive expertise on hair loss, particularly as it relates to hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause. The conversation delves into the science behind hair follicles, the impact of genetics and lifestyle, and the latest advancements in hair restoration. Episode Highlights: Understanding Hair Loss: Dr. Bauman explains the mechanisms of androgenic alopecia (pattern hair loss) and how hormonal shifts during menopause can accelerate thinning and shedding. Early Intervention Matters: Emphasizing that "time equals follicles," Dr. Bauman stresses the importance of early evaluation and personalized treatment plans to preserve and restore hair health. Comprehensive Approach: Beyond traditional treatments, the discussion covers compounded pharmaceuticals, low-leve

In this week’s episode, Dr. Fiona Lovely is joined by the brilliant Dani Hamilton, a Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and blood sugar expert who is shattering everything we thought we knew about metabolic health. Forget restrictive diets and brutal biohacks. Dani guides us back to the most powerful, overlooked healing source we have: nature itself. After reversing her own PCOS and health crises, she discovered that even clients doing "everything right" were still stuck. Her answer? A deep dive into the quantum and circadian rhythms of light, water, and magnetism. Want the first look at episodes like this and Dr. Lovely's coveted product recommendations? Sign up for Fiona's Friday Favourites newsletter! This conversation is a masterclass in bio-harmonization. Dani unleashes her signature blend of groundbreaking science and straight talk, revealing how our modern indoor lives are sabotaging our health. She explains why artificial blue light is a metabolic nightmare and how the sun’s infrared rays are

Today’s episode of Not Your Mother's Menopause, Dr. Fiona Lovely is joined by the legendary Susan Bratton, "Intimacy Expert to Millions." We dive deep into the heart of female pleasure, shattering the patriarchal myths that have left so many women feeling broken or bored in the bedroom. Susan brings her signature blend of science, savvy, and straight talk to the conversation, offering a masterclass in reclaiming your sexual vitality. She explains why the female arousal cycle is fundamentally different from the male one and why giving yourself 15-20 minutes to achieve true engorgement—your "lady boner"— is the non-negotiable key to mind-blowing pleasure and natural lubrication. This episode is packed with actionable advice, including: How to use the free Sex Life Bucket List to explore 48 erotic play dates with your partner. Why Yoni Massage is the #1 sex trend of the year and how it transforms intimacy. The critical role of nitric oxide for blood flow and the regenerative power of nitric oxide A tanta

In this week’s essential episode, Dr. Lovely is joined by Dr. Vonda Wright, an acclaimed orthopedic surgeon and longevity specialist, to decode a hidden crisis for women in midlife: the mysterious aches and pains that often get dismissed.  Dr. Wright introduces her groundbreaking research on the Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause (MSM), putting a name to the frozen shoulders, unexplained tendonitis, bone loss, muscle loss and joint pain that derail so many women's lives at midlife. This conversation is a powerful deep dive into the undeniable link between declining estrogen and the health of your entire musculoskeletal system. Dr. Wright shares why her paper became a viral sensation with over 418,000 downloads, what this says about the gaps in women’s healthcare, and how you can move from feeling like you're "falling apart" to building a resilient, powerful body.  What You’ll Hear: The MSM Breakdown: What it is and the most common conditions (it’s probably not just "aging"). The Estrogen Connection: Ho

In this special episode, we’re sharing Dr. Lovely’s interview from the Women Aging Powerfully Summit with host Leah Vachani. With 20 years of clinical experience in women's physical and mental health, Dr. Lovely pulled back the curtain on Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause (MSM)—a debilitating but rarely discussed condition tied to estrogen loss. Here are the key insights from their conversation. Highlights from the interview: MSM affects 71% of women, yet remains underdiagnosed, with symptoms like joint stiffness, bone density loss, and declining muscle mass. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is protective: Bioidentical progesterone (key for nerve messages to the brain and back) and estradiol reduce pain, improve bone density, and preserve muscle. Protein is a game-changer: Most women eat only 55–75g/day, but keeping protein consumption optimal stabilizes blood sugar, and fights sarcopenia. Movement is non-negotiable: Resistance training and balance exercises (like single-leg stands) prevent falls

Today, Dr. Lovely welcomes a conversation with Amitay Eshel, co-founder and CEO of Young Goose and host of the Biohacking Beauty podcast. Amitay, an entrepreneur in the biohacking and beauty industries, explains the science behind accelerated skin aging during perimenopause and menopause, focusing on how declining estrogen impacts essential skin components like collagen, elasticity, hyaluronic acid, and cellular autophagy.   Highlights from our chat: NAD+ is a foundational molecule for cellular repair and longevity, whose levels decline rapidly with age and are further reduced by falling estrogen, leaving skin "starved". Amitay focuses on an "upstream" method of anti aging with the skin, providing NAD+ precursors like NMN to replenish energy and repair functions, rather than just treating visible wrinkles. Spermadine is introduced as a "magical molecule" essential for triggering autophagy, the body's vital cellular recycling process that renews older cells and boosts collagen production. Women e

Chef Mareya Ibrahim (also known as Chef Mareya, 'The Fit Foodie') is a chef, holistic nutritionist, brain health coach, author, and inventor. She hosts The Real Dish podcast and wrote Eat Like You Give a Fork. She also created Fit and Fab Over 40, Meal Prep Club, and Eat to Thrive programs, and was a signature chef for The Daniel Plan.   In this conversation, you will hear: Chef Mareya  shares her inspiring personal journey of healing from severe injuries like a tibial fracture, torn ACL, and meniscus without surgery in her 50s. She overcame intense anxiety and heart palpitations, discovering they were linked to a magnesium deficiency.  The conversation highlights a crucial shift in mindset towards health in midlife: moving from exercising and eating for thinness to focusing on strength and functional fitness. Chef Mareya emphasises prioritising protein, colourful produce, and healthy fats, viewing food as information for cells rather than just calories. She started competitive bodybuilding in her

In this week’s episode, Dr. Fiona Lovely speaks with Gerardo Gutierrez - “Guti”, founder of Mitolux, about one of the most overlooked pillars of wellness: sunlight. After facing pre-diabetes, low testosterone, and depression, Gerardo turned away from lifelong medications and toward natural healing. His recovery began with daily sun exposure—a simple shift that dramatically improved his hormone levels, mood, and overall vitality. Gerardo now educates others on the science of light: how UVB, red, and infrared wavelengths support vitamin D production, hormone balance, mental clarity, and even skin health. He also shares why he created the Mitolux lamp—to help people safely access the benefits of sunlight indoors, especially in modern lifestyles that keep us indoors and afraid of the sun. If you’ve ever wondered whether sunlight could be more healing than harmful, this episode is a must-listen. Topics We Cover in This Episode: How Guti reversed chronic health issues using sunlight instead of pharmaceuticals W

In this week's episode,  Dr. Fiona Lovely speaks with Cathy Eason, a certified holistic nutritionist and clinical educator, about nitric oxide (NO), often called the "miracle molecule" for its vital role in blood flow and thus, overall health.  We talk about the groundbreaking findings from a pilot study on nitric oxide’s impact on women's sexual health, revealing significant improvements in desire (75%), lubrication (58%), orgasm (83%), and reduced discomfort (83%) among participants who took two capsules of nitric oxide daily for 60 days. Beyond sexual function, we discuss optimal blood flow, facilitated by nitric oxide, which is essential for nutrient and oxygen delivery, waste removal, and hormone transmission throughout the body. Cathy Eason explains that nitric oxide levels naturally decline by about 50% by age 40, which is concerning for women during perimenopause and menopause.  It impacts cardiovascular health, brain function, and energy levels. You can boost your nitric oxides by eating foods like l

In this week’s episode, Dr. Joy Kong shares her pioneering work in stem cell therapy and regenerative medicine. From reversing signs of aging to offering hope for chronic conditions, Dr. Kong explains how ethically sourced umbilical cord-derived stem cells act as the body’s ultimate repair crew. She shares a moving case study of a child with autism who experienced life-changing improvements after stem cell therapy, and breaks down why we lose stem cells as we age—and what we can do to replenish them. Dr. Kong also talks about how this cutting-edge science supports women in midlife, with benefits for hormonal balance, cognitive function, and vitality. She even gives us a peek into her personal anti-aging routine, including her potent stem cell skincare line and regular IV infusions. If you’re curious about the future of longevity, disease prevention, and rewriting the rules of aging, this episode is for you. What You’ll Hear: ✨ How umbilical cord-derived stem cells regenerate tissues and calm inflammation ✨ A