PODCAST · education
HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS
by Hot Flashes & Cool Topics
As the weekly podcast voice for women in midlife and beyond, we talk about everything from menopause to relationships, women’s health and wellness to career and travel. We also talk to incredible celebrities who are redefining this time of life. Join the conversation!
Episodes
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Real Housewives of 1939: Illeana Douglas Reveals Old Hollywood’s Scandal, Glamour & Feuds
Who remembers the stories of Norma Shearer and her feud with Joan Crawford? This week, we invited actress, producer, and author Illeana Douglas to discuss her new book, Jungle Red: The Making of MGM’s The Women, an in-depth exploration of the legendary 1939 Hollywood film The Women and the...
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Should I Say Something? The Psychology of Honesty, Boundaries & Difficult Conversations with Vanessa Bohns
When should you speak up, and when is it better to keep something to yourself? This week, we welcome Vanessa Bohns, social psychologist at Cornell University and author of Should I Say Something? The Science of What to Share and What to Keep to Yourself, for an insightful conversation about the...
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Breast Cancer Beyond the Pink: Understanding Risk, Screening, Treatment & Life After Diagnosis
What happens after a breast cancer diagnosis and how can patients make informed decisions about screening, treatment, menopause, and life beyond cancer? This week, Dr. Eleonora Teplinsky author of Beyond the Pink: Navigating Life, Health, and Breast Cancer, breaks down the complex realities of...
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Menopause & Nutrition: The Midlife Power Foods You Need with Dr. Ian Smith
What if menopause could be viewed not as the end of something, but as the beginning of a new chapter? In this episode, Dr. Ian Smith joins us for an in-depth conversation about menopause nutrition, perimenopause, healthy aging, weight management, inflammation, muscle loss, and the role of food in...
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Carla Hall on “Carla Bakes,” Her One Woman Show & Why You Should Never Underestimate Her
SHE'S BACK!! We are thrilled that our friend and celebrity baker, Carla Hall returns for a wide ranging conversation about reinvention, creativity, aging, baking, self confidence, and the importance of refusing to let other people underestimate you. Carla opens up about her one woman show…
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How to Create Healthy Boundaries Without the Guilt with Therapist Jessica Miller
What happens when a relationship becomes emotionally draining? In this insightful conversation with therapist, Jessica Miller, we explore the importance of recognizing unhealthy relationships, setting necessary boundaries, and giving yourself permission to walk away from friendships or...
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You Don’t Need More Clothes: Chellie Carlson Shares the Style Shift Every Woman Over 50 Needs
You are not born with style, you learn it. And when it comes to personal style after 50, it’s never too late to figure out what makes you feel comfortable, confident, and completely yourself. This week, we’re joined by stylist Chellie Carlson to talk about creating a wardrobe and personal style...
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When News Breaks: Carol Lin on 9/11, Loss, and Finding Hope
Next week is the 25th Anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. This week, we are reliving some of those critical moments from the view of former CNN anchor, Carol Lin. Carol was one of the first news anchors to report that morning. Carol shares her experience and how her team carried many of us through...
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The Waltons Star, Judy Norton Talks Resilience, Purpose & Personal Growth
Goodnight John Boy! Goodnight Mary Ellen! In this week's episode, Judy Norton (best known as Mary Ellen Walton from the iconic television series The Waltons) shares her personal story of overcoming fear, building confidence, and embracing life’s next chapters. With a career spanning more than…
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Finding Joy in the Smallest Moments with “Grandfluencer” Diane Shiffer, Your Chubby Vintage Nana
WELCOME TO SEASON 8! If you are joining our community for the first time. we are thrilled to have you join us. Hot Flashes & Cool Topics podcast talks about everything for women over 50. In the heartfelt first episode of this season, we welcome Diane Shiffer, the beloved social media creator…
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Reinventing Life After 60: Elizabeth Perkins Talks Menopause, Women’s Health & Finding Herself Again (Replay)
SEASON 8 STARTS NEXT WEEK! In our final replay episode of Season 7, we revisit our conversation with actress and advocate Elizabeth Perkins. Elizabeth shares her personal experiences with reinvention, motherhood, menopause, women’s health, and the freedom that comes from finally putting yourself...
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How to be a Good Grandparent: Boundaries, Communication, and Building Strong Family Relationships REPLAY
One more replay to go until Season 8 starts! On this replay episode, we talk with DeeDee Moore, founder of More Than Grand. DeeDee explains that being a successful parent does not automatically prepare someone to be a successful grandparent. DeeDee encourages grandparents to view boundaries not…
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Ozempic, Wegovy & GLP-1 Medications Explained: Cost, Side Effects, Insurance Coverage & Long-Term Weight Loss: REPLAY
In this replay episode, we interview obesity medicine specialist Dr. Alexandra Sowa, author of The Ozempic Revolution. The discussion demystifies GLP-1 medications such as Ozempic, Wegovy, semaglutide, and tirzepatide, explaining how they work, who they are designed for, and why they represent a...
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Moon Unit Zappa on Earth to Moon: Family Trauma, Healing, and Living Her Best Midlife (Replay)
In this intriguing replay episode, we welcome writer, actress, comedian, artist, podcaster, and author of the deeply personal memoir Earth to Moon, Moon Unit Zappa. Moon shares what it was really like growing up as the daughter of legendary musician Frank Zappa and Gail Zappa, revealing a…
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Annette O'Toole Shares Her Secrets to Healthy Aging, Confidence & Hollywood Success: REPLAY
Annette O’Toole, the acclaimed actress best known for playing Hope McCrea on Netflix’s hit series Virgin River and Martha Kent on Smallville, joins us for this inspiring replay conversation about her remarkable career, aging in Hollywood, marriage, motherhood, and finding lasting success in an...
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Margaret Cho on Menopause, Comedy & Finding Yourself (Replay)
Comedy legend Margaret Cho joins us for a refreshingly honest and often hilarious conversation about her standup tour, Choligarchy and she shares why she believes laughter is one of the most powerful tools for speaking truth to power. We also dive into one of the most surprising topics of the...
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The Thyroid Fix: Hormones, Weight Gain & Tests Your Doctor May Be Missing
In this episode, Dr. Amie Hornaman, the “Thyroid Whisperer” and author of The Thyroid Fix, breaks down the complexities of thyroid health, explaining why millions of people continue to struggle with symptoms despite being told their thyroid is "normal." She explores the key differences between...
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Kim Alexis on Health, Vitality, and Aging Gracefully
Kim Alexis, one of the most recognizable supermodels of the 1980s, joins the podcast to share her inspiring journey from the fashion runway to broadcasting, authorship, and podcasting. Discovered by a modeling agency in Buffalo at just 17 years old, Kim quickly rose to international fame and…
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A Love Letter to Caregivers: The Paper Bag Plan with Filmmaker Anthony Lucero
On this special bonus episode, we sit down with filmmaker Anthony Lucero, writer and director of Paper Bag Plan, a moving film that shines a light on the realities of family caregiving, disability advocacy, and long term planning for individuals with special needs. Drawing from his own deeply...
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Loving the Fire: Deborah Santana Shares Her Story of Awakening
This week, we are sharing an inspirational conversation with activist and author, Deborah Santana. In her new book, Loving the Fire: Choosing Me, Finding Freedom, Deborah shares her powerful story of resilience, self discovery, and reclaiming her voice after years of putting others first. Raised…
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Midlife Gets a Bad Rap: Margie Lachman on How Midlife is Your Primetime
This week we are discovering a fresh perspective on midlife with psychologist Dr. Margie Lachman, author of Primetime. Drawing on more than 30 years of research, Dr. Lachman challenges common myths about the so called “midlife crisis,” revealing that middle adulthood is often a period of peak...
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Morgan Fairchild: Glamour, Grace & Great Stories
On this week’s episode, we step into the glamorous world of Morgan Fairchild, one of television’s most iconic leading ladies. Morgan is a celebrated actress known for portraying powerful, sophisticated women on hit series including Search for Tomorrow, Dallas, Flamingo Road, Paper Dolls, Falcon...
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Does Heat Therapy Improve Health? Sauna Science with Bill Gifford
This week’s podcast guest is Bill Gifford, bestselling author and science journalist. He joins us to discuss his new book, HOTWIRED: How the Hidden Power of Heat Makes Us Stronger, and the groundbreaking research on heat therapy, sauna benefits, and human performance. Drawing from cutting edge...
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Back to the New Zoo Review: 54 Years of Love and Smiles with Doug & Emmy Jo
Calling all New Zoo Review kids! In this unforgettable conversation, Doug and Emmy Jo share the inspiring story behind the creation of The New Zoo Revue, their real life love story, and the lasting cultural impact the series continues to have on longtime fans. From surprising crowds at Comic-Con...
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Mariel Hemingway Shares How to Age Boldly and Embrace Your Authentic Self
Show Notes/Links: www.hotflashescooltopics.com New Episode with Mariel Hemingway! Actress and wellness advocate Mariel Hemingway joins Bridgett and Colleen to discuss authentic living, women’s empowerment, and thriving in midlife. Mariel shares how her programs Rise to Remember and Return of the...
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Karen Duffy Talks MTV, Sarcoidosis, and the Secrets to a Beautiful Life
Karen Duffy returns with an inspiring conversation about resilience, reinvention, and living beautifully, no matter the circumstances. From her iconic days as an MTV VJ and actress to becoming a New York Times bestselling author, Karen shares unforgettable stories and hard earned wisdom from a…
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A New Vision for Women's Health with Meghan Rabbitt
Looking for the go-to encyclopedia on women’s health? We found it. This week’s guest, Meghan Rabbitt, author of The New Rules of Women’s Health, shares a science-backed roadmap to thriving at every age. Featuring research from 130+ leading female health experts, this comprehensive resource covers...
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Keisha Lance Bottoms on Strength, Leadership and Telling Her Story
Former Atlanta Mayor, Keisha Lance Bottoms joins us for a powerful and deeply personal conversation about her new memoir, The Rough Side of the Mountain. She opens up about the family challenges that shaped her path to public service and the defining moments from her time as mayor of Atlanta...
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Jennie Garth Talks Midlife Reinvention and Choosing Herself
I Choose Me! In this inspiring podcast episode, Jennie Garth discusses her new book I Choose Me and she opens up about midlife reinvention, overcoming limiting beliefs, and learning to prioritize herself. Jennie shares candid insights on divorce, motherhood, mental health, and rebuilding...
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Ann Dowd Reveals All: Aunt Lydia and The Testaments
Get ready for an amazing conversation with someone you love to hate! Ann Dowd (aka Aunt Lydia) joins us for a candid conversation about building a career on her own terms and why her most powerful roles came later in life. Best known for her chilling portrayal of Aunt Lydia in The Handmaid’s…
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Healthcare Explained: What You Really Need to Know with Expert Rebecca Bloom
Insurance coverage is confusing—and that confusion hurts people when they’re sick. In this episode Rebecca Bloom, attorney, longtime women’s health advocate, and author of When Women Get Sick, explains how to navigate the healthcare and insurance landscape so you get the care and support you…
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JoBeth Williams Returns to Talk Hollywood and Becoming a Grandmother
JoBeth Williams returns to HFCT! We are thrilled to continue our conversation with actress and producer JoBeth Williams. JoBeth is busier than ever with the movie, Not Without Hope, and producing the recent Actor Awards. She also shares more great stories from her past movies including Kramer vs....
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“GenX isn’t Aging Differently, We’re Just Built to Last” and Other Truisms with Sherri Dindal
Gen X isn’t aging differently, we’re built to last! That’s just one of the sharp, funny one-liners shared by content creator Sherri Shindal, who’s built a massive audience of over 7 million followers by celebrating Generation X life. Sherri didn’t set out to become a viral creator, but her...
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June Squibb at 96: Career, Life and What's Next
We are not worthy! Our guest this week is iconic actress June Squibb, whose remarkable career continues to thrive at 96. Best known for her acclaimed performances in films like Nebraska, Thelma, and Eleanor the Great, Squibb has built one of the most enduring acting careers in Hollywood. In this...
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How to Age Proof Your Brain with Dr. Majid Fotuhi
SUBSCRIBE to Hot Flashes & Cool Topics podcast for free on any podcast platform. Show Notes/Website: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Do you know there are ways to age proof your brain? Do you know the tips and tricks for brain training? This week, we have invited Dr. Majid Fotuhi to explain how we…
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Bonus Episode: Confessions of a GenX Woman
It's time for a bonus episode. Our guest, Dani Alpert, joins Bridgett to share relatable life stories form her new book, Hello? Who is This? Margaret? The book describes blind ambition, stubborn optimism, and perseverance filtered through candid stories that feel like pep talks wrapped in...
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Weighted Vests in Midlife: Are They Worth the Hype?
It's a common sight: Couples walking with weighted vests. Are they worth the hype? The quick answer is yes! In today's episode, our guest, Michael Easter talks about how carrying weight can dramatically improve strength, endurance, mood, and longevity. His new book, Walk With Weight: The…
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Elizabeth Vargas: Truth, Trauma and Triumph
New Episode with Elizabeth Vargas. Many will remember Elizabeth Vargas as a journalist from shows including 20/20 and Good Morning America. Elizabeth has traveled the world covering breaking news stories, reporting in-depth investigations, and conducting newsmaker interviews. She currently…
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The Essential Guide for Financial Caregivers with CFP Beth Pinsker
* Request A copy of the Free Financial Caregivers Resource Guide: LINK We don't talk enough about the financial toll of caregiving. Many caregivers are not just dealing with a loved one's emotional and physical needs, but financial needs as well. In today's new episode, we are sharing expert…
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Carrie Preston Talks Elsbeth and Embracing Life Over 50
Powerful women over 50 are finally taking center stage on TV. This week, we’re thrilled to welcome Emmy Award winning actress, producer, and director Carrie Preston for an inspiring conversation about her career, creativity, and personal journey. As the lead of the hit series Elsbeth, Carrie is...
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This is What Menopause Looks Like: Stories with Author Lidia Yuknavitch
Storytelling has the power to transform how we understand our bodies and our lives. On this week’s episode, we welcome Lidia Yuknavitch, acclaimed author and editor of the new book The Big M: 13 Writers Take Back the Story of Menopause, for a bold conversation about reclaiming menopause through...
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Thinning Hair, Hormones & Menopause: The Real Story with Nutrafol’s Dr. Isabelle Raymond
Did you know that nearly 50% of women experience hair changes during menopause? In this expert-led conversation, we uncover the truth behind menopausal hair thinning, shedding, and texture changes with Dr. Isabelle Raymond, SVP of Clinical and Medical Affairs at Nutrafol. Dr. Raymond is dedicated...
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Annabeth Gish Talks Menopause, Midlife and Career Milestones
It's another "pinch me" week! We are thrilled to welcome iconic actress Annabeth Gish to the podcast for an inspiring and deeply relatable conversation. Best known for her memorable roles in film and television, Annabeth opens up about important midlife topics that resonate with so many women...
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Ageless without Surgery: Noninvasive Solutions with Dr. Doris Day
HAPPY NEW YEAR! We believe that women of any age deserve to feel beautiful, confident, and empowered in their skin. Aging is natural—and so are the many noninvasive skincare and anti-aging options available today. Feeling your best doesn’t have to mean Botox, fillers, or cosmetic surgery. So what...
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Rewriting the Middle: Healing Eating Disorders in Midlife with Mallary Tenore Tarpley
13% of women over 50 struggle with the symptoms of an eating disorder. * Whether it is a recurrence or brought on by life transitions, hormones or stress, the numbers are rising. For our last episode of 2025, we are joined by Mallary Tenore Tarpley. Mallary is an assistant professor of journalism...
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Marlo Thomas Talks Hope, Healing, and St. Jude
At this time of year, we could think of no better guest to join us than Marlo Thomas. Marlo is an actress, producer, author and perhaps, she is best know as the National Outreach Director for St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Founded in 1962 by her Dad, Danny Thomas, St. Jude continues to be...
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Carla Hall and Deb Riegel Invite Women 50+ to Grow with the MeMenu
You know we love Carla Hall! Her energy and love of life is contagious and we always enjoy when she joins us on Hot Flashes & Cool Topics podcast. This week, Carla is joined by her business partner Deb Riegel to share her new project, MeMenu. The MeMenu is a guided personal growth program for...
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Aging Well for Women with Dr. Mindy Pelz
Holiday Gift Guide: Link Who wants to age well? Of course, we all do! This week, we are speaking with Dr. Mindy Pelz, author of the new book AGE LIKE A GIRL: How Menopause Rewires Your Brain, Increased Confidence, and Renewed Energy. Dr. Pelz gives us her vision of what is happening to and for...
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Gabrielle Carteris Talks 90210, SAG/AFTRA and Her Joyful Life Journey
HFCT 7th Annual Holiday Gift Guide: Link How many of you were fans of 90210? Of course, we all watched the drama! We are excited to share this week's conversation with Actress, Trade Union Leader, Gabrielle Carteris. Many will remember Gabrielle as Andrea Zuckerman on 90210 (and the reboot)and…
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Singer Lurleen Ladd Talks Creating Opportunities for Female Musicians 40+
Seasoned female musicians are another group of women who are often overlooked in the professional world. This week's guest is singer and founder of Wavemakers, Lurleen Ladd. Lurleen created Wavemakers- Women in Music 40+ as a platform to amplify women's voices, their talents and to address the...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
As the weekly podcast voice for women in midlife and beyond, we talk about everything from menopause to relationships, women’s health and wellness to career and travel. We also talk to incredible celebrities who are redefining this time of life. Join the conversation!
HOSTED BY
Hot Flashes & Cool Topics
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS have?
HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS currently has 435 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS about?
As the weekly podcast voice for women in midlife and beyond, we talk about everything from menopause to relationships, women’s health and wellness to career and travel. We also talk to incredible celebrities who are redefining this time of life. Join the conversation!
How often does HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS release new episodes?
HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS publishes regularly with 435 episodes available. Check the episode list for the typical release schedule.
Where can I listen to HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS?
You can listen to HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS?
HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS is created and hosted by Hot Flashes & Cool Topics.
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