HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS

Hot Flashes & Cool Topics
  • 4.8 (144)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

The podcast voice for women 50+. We talk about everything to do with this time of life from relationships and careers, women’s health and wellness to celebrity interviews. New episode every Wednesday.

  1. 5d ago

    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 everyday decisions that shape our relationships, careers, and personal lives. Drawing on psychological research, Vanessa explores why we often overestimate how negatively people will react when we speak up, share our feelings, ask personal questions, or offer honest feedback. From deciding whether to tell a friend about a potentially unfaithful partner to figuring out when to share good news, bad news, or a personal struggle, this conversation offers practical, research-backed guidance for navigating life's most uncomfortable social situations. The discussion examines the difference between kindness and honesty, revealing why the two are not mutually exclusive and how compassionate honesty can help people learn, grow, and strengthen relationships. Vanessa also explains the psychology behind benign and malicious envy, why sharing our successes can inspire others, and how our own actions can challenge social norms such as ghosting in dating and the workplace. We also explore the benefits of asking deeper questions to build meaningful connections, the surprising power of vulnerability, and why sharing difficult experiences can bring people closer together. She challenges the common belief that we must always share our struggles to feel better, highlighting the importance of personal boundaries and choosing the right time and place to open up. She also discusses over-apologizing, how to express empathy without taking responsibility for things that aren't our fault, and how to make a sincere apology without putting the burden on someone else to make us feel better. Finally, the conversation tackles ethical dilemmas and the difficult choices that arise when two competing values such as honesty, loyalty, fairness, and care—seem equally important. She shares a practical framework for identifying your goals, considering short- and long-term consequences, and making thoughtful decisions you can stand behind, even when there is no perfect answer. Whether you're navigating friendships, family dynamics, dating, workplace relationships, or the complexities of life after 50, this episode will help you rethink what it means to speak up, stay silent, and communicate with confidence and compassion. Show Notes/Links: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Book: Link JOIN THE HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS PODCAST COMMUNITY: Website: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Newsletter: Link Mail hotflashescooltopics@gmail.com Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hotflashesandcooltopics Facebook : www.facebook.com/hotflashescooltopics YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HotFlashesCoolTopics

  2. Oct 7

    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 breast cancer and offers practical guidance for patients, survivors, previvors, and families. For anyone facing an abnormal mammogram or new breast cancer diagnosis, the episode offers an important message: take a breath and gather information before making decisions. Dr. Teplinsky explains the role of the breast surgeon, the value of getting a second opinion, and why understanding the specific type and biology of a breast cancer is critical. The discussion explores breast cancer staging and tumor biology, including stage 0 disease, DCIS, LCIS, hormone receptor status, HER2 status, tumor grade, lymph node involvement, and prognostic staging. Rather than focusing exclusively on the number of a cancer stage, patients are encouraged to understand the characteristics of their individual cancer and how those factors influence treatment. Dr. Teplinsky also explains the major categories of breast cancer treatment, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone-blocking therapy, anti-HER2 therapy, immunotherapy, and other targeted treatments. She emphasizes that not all breast cancers are the same and that treatment should be individualized according to the cancer's type, stage, biomarkers, and other clinical factors. The episode also explores the rapidly evolving fields of molecular and biomarker testing, personalized medicine, artificial intelligence in breast cancer risk assessment, and breast cancer vaccine research. Listeners will learn how these technologies may help physicians better understand tumor behavior and identify targeted treatment options. Clinical trials are another important topic. Dr. Teplinsky encourages patients to ask their medical teams whether a clinical trial may be appropriate and discusses how resources such as ClinicalTrials.gov and nonprofit organizations can help patients identify potential opportunities. The conversation goes beyond diagnosis and treatment to address the realities of living with and beyond breast cancer. Whether you have recently been diagnosed with breast cancer, are supporting someone who has, have a strong family history, are considering genetic testing, or simply want to better understand breast cancer prevention and screening, this episode offers evidence-based information and practical questions to bring to your healthcare team. Show Notes/Links: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Beyond the Pink: Book Link   JOIN THE HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS PODCAST COMMUNITY: Website: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Newsletter: Link Mail hotflashescooltopics@gmail.com Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hotflashesandcooltopics Facebook : www.facebook.com/hotflashescooltopics YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HotFlashesCoolTopics

  3. Sep 30

    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 managing midlife health. Dr. Ian wrote The New Menopause Kitchen to help women navigate the physical and nutritional changes that occur during perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause. His approach focuses on making nutrition simple, actionable, and accessible rather than overwhelming.  Menopause is not a period of resignation—it can be an opportunity to rethink nutrition, movement, strength, and long-term health. By prioritizing protein, fiber, calcium, vitamin D, nutrient-dense whole foods, muscle-building exercise, and an anti-inflammatory lifestyle, women can build a practical foundation for health throughout midlife and beyond.

  4. Sep 23

    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, “Please Underestimate Me,” a biographical theatrical production inspired by the many twists, turns, starts, and restarts throughout her life. From working as an accountant and modeling in Europe to becoming a caterer, television personality, cookbook author, and celebrated chef, Carla reflects on what it means to follow the road wherever it leads instead of boxing yourself into a predetermined idea of what comes next. We talk more about reinvention after 50. Carla shares her desire to inspire women, particularly women 50 and older, to “unbox” themselves and rediscover who they are beyond traditional roles and expectations. She discusses the Me Menu, a personal-development concept she created with executive coach Deb Regal, designed to help people turn some of their attention back toward themselves and explore what they want from the next chapter of life. The conversation also explores Carla's latest cookbook, Carla Hall's Carla Bakes: Sweet and Savory Recipes from the Heart, including the stories, techniques, and lessons behind the recipes. The episode goes beyond food, touching on the value of admitting what you don't know, asking for help, staying curious, and continuing to learn at every age. Carla's story demonstrates how embracing uncertainty can open the door to unexpected opportunities. She also shares a particularly emotional story about her lifelong admiration for Carol Burnett and the extraordinary moment when Burnett contributed a voiceover to Carla's One Woman show. For Carla, the experience represented a full circle moment between the 12-year-old girl who dreamed of becoming the “Black Carol Burnett” and the accomplished woman she became decades later. Listeners will also hear about Carla's continued creative projects, including her work with The Chew alumni on YouTube, her ongoing television appearances, and much more.  As always, she is excited for the next adventure!

  5. Sep 16

    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 relationships that no longer support your emotional well-being. Jessica shares valuable insight into why people often feel obligated to stay in draining friendships and relationships and why ending a friendship can sometimes be the healthiest choice. The conversation offers practical perspective on navigating difficult relationships, protecting your peace, and building connections that are supportive, fulfilling, and mutually healthy.  We also discuss when it is necessary to go no contact. Whether you're struggling with a toxic friendship, questioning whether a relationship is still serving you, or simply looking for ways to create healthier connections, this episode provides thoughtful advice and encouragement. Show Notes/Links: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Jessica Miller Website: Mind Your Boundaries JOIN THE HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS PODCAST COMMUNITY: Website: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Newsletter: Link Mail hotflashescooltopics@gmail.com Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hotflashesandcooltopics Facebook : www.facebook.com/hotflashescooltopics YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HotFlashesCoolTopics

  6. Sep 9

    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 that actually works for women over 50. And her first piece of advice? Stop shopping and start with your closet. Take a peek inside your wardrobe and ask yourself: Do you actually wear more than 20% of what you own? If the answer is no, it may be time for a serious closet reset. Chellie believes the first step to discovering your personal style is removing the clutter. That might mean donating more than 50% of your wardrobe, and yes, that can sound painful! But clearing out the clothes you don't wear creates space to see what you truly love, what feels comfortable, and what you want to wear more of now. We’re talking about why you should size up when something doesn’t fit, let go of clothes that no longer serve you, and stop feeling guilty about wearing the same pieces again and again. You don’t need 10 white T-shirts, 3great ones might be plenty. And there is absolutely nothing wrong with repeating an outfit or styling one quality garment multiple ways. We also discuss the temptation to buy something simply because it’s on sale. A bargain isn't a bargain if you don't love it, wear it, or feel great in it. Chellie shares practical, budget-friendly styling tips to help women over 50 define their personal style, simplify their wardrobe, dress with confidence, and shop with intention without breaking the bank. Because great style isn't about having more clothes. It’s about having the right clothes for the woman you are today. Show Notes/Links: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Chellie Carlson: Website JOIN THE HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS PODCAST COMMUNITY: Website: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Newsletter: Link Mail hotflashescooltopics@gmail.com Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hotflashesandcooltopics Facebook : www.facebook.com/hotflashescooltopics YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HotFlashesCoolTopics

  7. Sep 2

    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 that horrible day. Carole also discusses her fascinating and deeply personal book, When News Breaks, her career experiences, and the unexpected connections she has made throughout her life. When News Breaks is more than a memoir about being a journalist on 9/11. It's a powerful story about the duality of womanhood and the impossible pressure many women feel to succeed at work while simultaneously being present for their families, partners, and children. Show Notes/Links: www.hotflashescooltopics.com JOIN THE HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS PODCAST COMMUNITY: Website: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Newsletter: Link Mail hotflashescooltopics@gmail.com Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hotflashesandcooltopics Facebook : www.facebook.com/hotflashescooltopics YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HotFlashesCoolTopics WE APPRECIATE POSITIVE RATINGS AND REVIEWS!

  8. Aug 26

    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 five decades, Judy has continually reinvented herself as an actress, writer, director, producer, singer, and performer. She opens up about the fear and anxiety she experienced as a young actress, the challenges of Hollywood, and how learning to trust herself helped her move beyond self doubt and step confidently outside her comfort zone. Beyond acting, she has pursued extraordinary challenges, including earning two world records in skydiving, competing in horse shows, and completing marathons and triathlons. Judy also shares why some of our most rewarding and meaningful chapters can come later in life and why it’s never too late to try something new. Show Notes/LInks: www.hotflashescooltopics.com JOIN THE HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS PODCAST COMMUNITY: Website: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Newsletter: Link Mail: hotflashescooltopics@gmail.com Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hotflashesandcooltopics Facebook : www.facebook.com/hotflashescooltopics YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HotFlashesCoolTopics PLEASE RATE/REVIEW.  THANK YOU!

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4.8
out of 5
144 Ratings

About

The podcast voice for women 50+. We talk about everything to do with this time of life from relationships and careers, women’s health and wellness to celebrity interviews. New episode every Wednesday.

Information

  • Creator
    Hot Flashes & Cool Topics
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    435
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Hot Flashes & Cool Topics
  • Show Website
    HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS

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