Welcome back to an empowering episode of the Nutrition and Life podcast! Today, Lisa Franz dives into the vital and often misunderstood topic of menopause with acclaimed author, fitness professional, and women’s health advocate Amanda Thebe. Prepare for a raw, real, and scientifically-grounded discussion covering everything from early symptoms and lifestyle strategies to managing relationships and debunking trends in menopause advice. Lisa Franz and Amanda Thebe unpack the emotional, physical, and social realities of menopause, from the confusing onset of perimenopausal symptoms to the nuances of exercise recommendations for women over 35. Whether you’re heading into menopause, supporting a loved one, or simply want to understand this essential life stage, you’ll find practical tips, myth-busting insights, and heartfelt encouragement. So grab your favorite beverage, settle in, and get ready for an episode that will leave you feeling informed, inspired, and empowered to embrace this pivotal chapter! Timestamp Overview: [00:00] – Introduction & Amanda’s Background[00:26] – Main Goals: Empowerment and Education[01:04] – Amanda’s Journey: Fitness, Health, & Perimenopause Discovery[02:52] – Navigating the Medical System and Finding Answers[04:35] – Early Adopter of the Menopause Conversation[04:57] – Social Media, Fear, & The Menopause Narrative[08:22] – Early Perimenopausal Symptoms & Confusion[09:00] – Hormonal Changes Explained[10:37] – Symptoms: Emotional & Physical Impact[13:02] – Genitourinary Syndrome & Pelvic Health[14:41] – Mindset: “You’re Not Broken!”[17:13] – Life Changes, Mindset Shifts & Accepting Yourself[19:40] – Practical Strategies: Menopocalypse Book[21:02] – Exercise, Sleep, Stress, Nutrition, & Resilience[24:26] – Busting Fitness Myths & Finding Joy[26:42] – Barriers, Individualization, & Research Nuances[29:35] – Autoregulation & Daily Wins[30:40] – Brain Changes, Mental Health, & Partner Support[32:40] – How Men & Families Can Be Allies[35:15] – Changing Generational Conversations[37:08] – Communication, Connection, & Intimacy[39:05] – Lifestyle Changes, Alcohol, & Partnership[39:21] – Wrapping Up, Key Takeaways, & Amanda’s ResourcesConnect with Amanda Thebe: Instagram: @amanda.thebeWebsite: https://amandathebe.com/If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe, share, and leave a rating or review! Your support allows us to keep bringing empowering, insightful conversations to help you thrive through every stage of life. Join us next week for more wisdom, growth, and inspiration on the Lisa podcast!