Create The Best Me

Carmen Hecox
  • 5.0 (14)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

We're an age-positive podcast that celebrates the richness of midlife and beyond. Hosted by Carmen Hecox, a seasoned transformational coach, our platform provides an empowering outlook on these transformative years. With a keen focus on perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause, Carmen brings together thought leaders, authors, artists, and entrepreneurs for candid conversations that inspire and motivate.   Each episode is packed with expert insights and practical advice to help you navigate life's challenges and seize opportunities for growth, wellness, and fulfillment. From career transitions and personal development to health, beauty, and relationships, "Create The Best Me" is your guide to thriving in midlife. Tune in and transform your journey into your most exhilarating adventure yet.

  1. 19H AGO

    Why Your Doctor Says You’re “Normal” But You Feel Like Crap (Perimenopause vs. Burnout)

    Are you tired of being told your labs are “normal” when you know something is off? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Will Haas, founder and CEO of VYVE Wellness in Charlotte. Together, we discuss the frustrations so many high performers (especially women) face when they hit that midlife wall: unexplained fatigue, brain fog, stubborn weight, and a new reality where old routines just don’t work anymore. We dive into: The difference between burnout and perimenopause (and why they so often overlap)Why standard labs don’t always reveal the real cause behind your symptomsWhat deeper tests really show about hormones, recovery, and cellular healthHow to use heart rate variability (HRV) as your “check engine” light for burnoutThe truth about GLP-1 drugs, “skinny fat,” and rebuilding your metabolism the right wayIf you’ve ever left the doctor’s office feeling dismissed or confused…the conversation is about to change. Music from: Epidemic Sound   Call to Action:  Ready to stop settling for "normal"? Hit Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss an episode! Comment below: What is one change you are going to make to your recovery routine this week?Share: Send this to a friend who needs to hear this exact message today.Make sure to come back next week, we have another amazing episode lined up with more strategies to help you navigate midlife with energy and confidence!   📕 Resources:  https://createthebestme.com/ep168 https://vyvewellness.com/get-started   Related Episodes: 🎧 Listen to these episodes next:  https://www.buzzsprout.com/1949561/episodes/19143428  https://www.buzzsprout.com/1949561/episodes/19069119    #vyvewellness #DrWillHaas #Perimenopause #MidlifeHealth #FunctionalMedicine #BurnoutRecovery #GLP1 #MitochondrialHealth #CreateTheBestMe #takecontrolofyourhealth  📨 Newsletter: https://createthebestme.com/newsletter/   👀 Connect With Me: Website: https://createthebestme.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/createthebestme Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carmenhecox/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@carmenhecox YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@createthebestme LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carmen-hecox   📽️ Video Request: https://forms.office.com/r/LvLV1AsBfv

    44 min

  2. MAY 8

    Perimenopause Brain Fog vs. Memory Loss: What's Normal vs. What's Not

    Is it just brain fog or something more serious? In this episode, I dive into one of midlife’s most misunderstood and frightening symptoms: perimenopause brain fog. If you’ve ever lost your train of thought mid-sentence, missed a word that was right there, or worried that these slips mean you’re starting to lose your memory for good, you’re not alone. Together, we cut through the confusion between brain fog and true memory loss. I give you a clear checklist of what’s a normal (if frustrating) part of perimenopause and what signs signal it’s time to check in with your doctor. I’ll walk you through the brain biology behind the “vocabulary gap,” how estrogen and acetylcholine affect your mind, the best foods to support cognitive health, and the science-backed habits that help your brain stay sharp through every hormonal shift life throws your way. What You’ll Learn: The difference between brain fog and permanent memory loss (why worry isn’t always warranted)Seven completely normal symptoms of perimenopausal brain fog and the five that mean it’s time to call your doctorHow estrogen and acetylcholine shape your memory, and why word-finding gets harder in midlifeThe foods and nutrients that protect your brain and support memory (hello, blueberries and eggs!)How “cognitive reserve” can help your brain reroute around fog and the three habits that build it, starting todayMusic by:  Epidemic Sound Call to Action: Drop a comment and tell me: which of the 7 brain fog symptoms did you recognize in yourself? I read every single one. 📕 Resources:  https://createthebestme.com/ep167   Related Episodes: 🎧  Listen to these episodes next:  https://www.buzzsprout.com/1949561/episodes/19069119  https://www.buzzsprout.com/1949561/episodes/18414779   #perimenopausebrainfog #menopausebrainfog #brainfogsymptoms #brainfogcauses #menopausememoryloss  📨 Newsletter: https://createthebestme.com/newsletter/   👀 Connect With Me: Website: https://createthebestme.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/createthebestme Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carmenhecox/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@carmenhecox YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@createthebestme LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carmen-hecox   📽️ Video Request: https://forms.office.com/r/LvLV1AsBfv

    18 min

  3. MAY 1

    The Brain Pattern That Keeps Ambitious Women Single

    How can you be a rockstar at work, run a household, and still find love completely bewildering? If you've ever felt like your love life is a cluttered pantry full of outdated stories and expired patterns, this episode is for you. I sat down with a powerhouse guest, board-certified integrative Neurosomatic practitioner and identity architect, Riana Malia, to tackle the unconscious patterns that keep high-achieving women single (and what to do about them). We cover why doing more doesn’t work in love, how to break free of old cycles fast, and the simple shift that will change the way you love, lead, and trust yourself. If you’re ready for real clarity and want to stop settling for chicken when you really want ribeye, don’t miss this conversation. What You’ll Learn 1. Why more “doing” doesn’t fix your love life Discover why high-achieving women get stuck in love even when they’re unstoppable everywhere else and what truly changes the game. 2. The 10%/90% shift for crystal clarity Understand why the conscious brain is only 10% of the story, while the unconscious makes up the powerful 90%, shaping your results in love and life. 3. How to clear old stories and expired patterns (for good) Learn Riana Malia’s “clear to create” methodology so you can stop telling the old story, detox dysfunctional patterns, and make room for extraordinary love. 4. The Clarity Codex: get specific about what you want Stop second-guessing yourself and learn to build your love “menu” based on your real desires, values, and non-negotiables. 5. How clearing love blocks transforms every relationship Hear real-world results of this work, not just in romance but with friends, children, coworkers, and most importantly, yourself. Music by: Epidemic Sounds Call to Action:   What is ONE “expired pattern” from your relationship pantry that you are throwing out today? 👇 Let me know in the comments! Don't forget to take Riana's free ELI assessment linked below! 📕 Resources:  https://createthebestme.com/ep166 https://rianamalia.com https://quiz.rianamalia.com Related Episode: 🎧 Listen to this episode next:  https://www.buzzsprout.com/1949561/episodes/17901989   #CreateTheBestMe #HighAchievingWomen #RelationshipAdvice #SubconsciousHealing #DatingInMidlife #ManifestingLove #NeurosomaticHealing #WomensEmpowerment 📨 Newsletter: https://createthebestme.com/newsletter/   👀 Connect With Me: Website: https://createthebestme.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/createthebestme Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carmenhecox/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@carmenhecox YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@createthebestme LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carmen-hecox   📽️ Video Request: https://forms.office.com/r/LvLV1AsBfv

    49 min

  4. APR 24

    This Simple Morning Shift Ends the Cortisol Belly Fat Cycle

    Is your stubborn belly fat refusing to budge, even though you’re eating right, moving your body, and getting good sleep? In this episode, I break down the real reason so many women in midlife struggle with “cortisol belly” and the exact morning shift that can help you finally end the cycle. Forget blaming willpower. Instead, I’ll walk you through the unseen hormone connection sabotaging your efforts and share the science-backed five-step morning protocol I use to reset my cortisol, reclaim my metabolism, and give my body permission to let the belly fat go. If you’ve tried everything but still wake up feeling stuck, this episode is your action plan to move forward one doable morning at a time. What You'll Learn Why you can do “everything right” and still gain belly fat in midlifeHow cortisol targets belly fat and why it’s different from fat anywhere elseThe crucial role morning routines play in your stress and fat storageFive specific, actionable steps to reset your cortisol and metabolism when you wake upThe science behind light exposure, coffee timing, protein, nervous system hacks, and digital boundaries, and how these tiny shifts compound into BIG transformationMusic:  Epidemic Sound Call to action: 👍 Drop a comment with the step you'll start tomorrow, and don’t forget to subscribe. Your best self is just a morning away! Catch another amazing episode created just for you next week! 📕 Resources:  https://createthebestme.com/ep165   Related Episodes: 🎧 Listen to these episodes next: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1949561/episodes/18414779 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1949561/episodes/18261094    #Cortisol #MidlifeWeightLoss #MorningRoutine #CreateTheBestMe #MenopauseHealth #releasemidlifebellyfat 📨 Newsletter: https://createthebestme.com/newsletter/   👀 Connect With Me: Website: https://createthebestme.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/createthebestme Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carmenhecox/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@carmenhecox YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@createthebestme LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carmen-hecox   📽️ Video Request: https://forms.office.com/r/LvLV1AsBfv

    16 min

  5. APR 17

    Here's What Most People Get Wrong in Retirement

    Retirement planning can feel overwhelming, especially for women, and it’s easy to fall into the trap of delaying big decisions or thinking “we” have it covered, when it turns out your name might not even be on that 401(k). In this episode, I sit down with retirement consultant and consumer advocate Marcia Mantell, who has spent over 30 years translating Social Security, Medicare, and retirement rules into clear, practical guidance. We explore why women face a retirement gap, debunk Social Security myths, and discuss delaying planning until it’s urgent. Marcia offers practical steps to boost your confidence and control over your future, regardless of age. What You’ll Learn: The Hidden Retirement Gap for Women Why women often have less in retirement, even if they were high earners or took “time out” for family, and how missing career years affect Social Security.The Truth About Social Security Social Security isn’t a personal bank account or a one-stop retirement solution. Learn how benefits are calculated, what ‘35 years” really mean, and why claiming early at 62 can permanently reduce your check.No Such Thing as a Joint 401(k) Why “we” doesn’t exist in retirement accounts, the key difference between owning and being a beneficiary, and what every married (or divorced!) woman should know about her account name.Don’t Fall for the COLA Myth Cost-of-living increases sound helpful, but Marcia explains why they won’t replace early benefit reductions and what truly protects your retirement income.It’s Never Too Late to Make a Difference Whether you’re behind in savings or starting to think about retirement at 50 or 60, Marcia shares three realistic steps any woman can take now to improve her security and peace of mind for the next 30 years. Music by:  Epidemic Sound  Call to Action: If you found value in this conversation, hit that Subscribe button and leave a comment below: What is your biggest financial fear or goal when it comes to retirement?  📕 Resources:  https://createthebestme.com/ep164 https://boomerretirementbriefs.com/  https://mantellretirementconsulting.com/ https://www.ssa.gov/myaccount/   ⚖️ Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational use only, not financial, investment, or legal advice. Consult your advisor before making retirement decisions. Guest views are their own and may not reflect those of Create The Best Me. #RetirementPlanning #WomenAndMoney #SocialSecurity #CreateTheBestMe #MidlifeWomen #FinancialLiteracy #RetirementTips 📨 Newsletter: https://createthebestme.com/newsletter/   👀 Connect With Me: Website: https://createthebestme.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/createthebestme Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carmenhecox/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@carmenhecox YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@createthebestme LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carmen-hecox   📽️ Video Request: https://forms.office.com/r/LvLV1AsBfv

    1h 4m

  6. APR 7

    How to Build 7 Figure Business When You're Starting Over at 40

    What if you could launch a business with just $500, no viral dances, no endless hustle on social, and no second mortgage, and grow it to seven figures? In this episode, I’m diving deep with a true unicorn, Lindsay Pinchuk, who did exactly that. Lindsay breaks down how simple, old-school marketing still wins, why nurturing a real community beats chasing followers, and what actually happens “after the big win,” including the story behind selling the business and discovering the dream exit isn’t always a fairytale. Whether you’re wondering if you’re too old to start over or convinced you need more money to begin, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what’s truly essential and what you can finally stop overcomplicating. 5 Key Lessons from This Episode Foundational marketing principles work every time. Consistency and fundamentals will take you further than chasing every new trick 43:36.Community is the greatest asset, not just a following. Building a space for real two-way engagement will sustain your brand (and your joy) 18:31.Partnerships don’t have to be complicated or paid. The simplest collaborations, where you “borrow” each other’s communities, can spark exponential growth 08:22.Your business will change, and that’s a good thing. The willingness to adapt, listen, and pivot is what separates lasting entrepreneurs from burnt-out ones 17:42.Sweep your message everywhere, not just social. Relying on one channel is risky; use Lindsay’s SWEEP method (Social media, Website, Email, Events, Partnerships/Publicity) to multiply your impact without multiplying your workload 38:09.Music:  Epidemic Sounds Call to Action:  Want more? Ready to simplify your business journey and connect with women who “get it”?  Learn more about Dear FOUNDHER community, newsletter, and podcast by clicking on the links below.  🔔 Subscribe and join our community to stay inspired and informed!  💬 Share your biggest takeaway in the comments. What will you simplify after watching?  Next week, join me for another amazing episode created just for you! #FemaleFounders #BusinessAfter40 #LindsayPinchuk #CreateTheBestMe #MarketingStrategy #EntrepreneurLife #DearFoundHer 📕 Resources:  https://createthebestme.com/ep162  https://www.dearfoundher.com/ https://www.instagram.com/dearfoundher Related Episode: 🎧 Listen to this episode next:  https://www.buzzsprout.com/1949561/episodes/17707610  📨 Newsletter: https://createthebestme.com/newsletter/   👀 Connect With Me: Website: https://createthebestme.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/createthebestme Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carmenhecox/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@carmenhecox YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@createthebestme LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carmen-hecox   📽️ Video Request: https://forms.office.com/r/LvLV1AsBfv

    46 min

  7. MAR 22

    Hard Choices Now, Youthful Forever | The 6 Standards That Change Everything

    Is it really possible to get stronger, healthier, and more independent as we age without living in the gym or going under the knife? In this episode, I sit down with world champion weightlifter, poet, and co-creator of The Happy Body program, Jerzy Gregorek, to challenge everything you think you know about aging. Forget Botox and fillers today, we're talking about the real secret to "aging backwards" and reclaiming vitality at any age. Jerzy Gregorek shares the surprising science behind muscle, strength, and micro progression, revealing how you can transform your body and mindset, starting right where you are. From the jaw-dropping story of an 83-year-old still deadlifting heavy weights, to a cancer survivor who rebuilt her bone density after chemo, this episode is packed with real-life proof that your next decade can be your best yet. What You'll Learn: Assessment Is Power: Why getting real about your strength, flexibility, posture, and daily movement is the first step to lasting change.The Compound Interest of Health: How micro progression, tiny, measurable improvements, can make you dramatically stronger and more capable over time.Why Strength Training is Non-Negotiable: Especially for women over 50, lifting weights beats cardio for muscle, metabolism, balance, and independence.The "Easy Choices, Hard Life" Principle: How making hard choices now leads to lifelong vitality and why settling for comfort makes aging harder.Mindset and Motivation: How to stop judging yourself, embrace long-term goals, and stay inspired, especially when progress is slow.Call to Action Learn more about The Happy Body, dive into the philosophy and real-life tactics inside The Happy Body book, or check out the latest coaching options by clicking the links below.  📕 Resources:  https://createthebestme.com/ep160 Learn more about Jerzy and Aniela’s program: https://thehappybody.com/ Join for a Single Day Free 30-minute Zoom Happy Body Workout Session Monday – Friday 9:00 AM PST https://jerzy-gregorek.mykajabi.com/offers/gafK9LZs Join The Happy Body Monthly link: https://jerzy-gregorek.mykajabi.com/offers/wu6A6eFu   “Prisoner No More” documentary https://vimeo.com/1107291303   Related Episode: 🎧 Listen to this episode next!  https://www.buzzsprout.com/1949561/episodes/17980534    #AgingBackwards #JerzyGregorek #TheHappyBody #Sarcopenia #FitnessMotivation #Longevity #HealthSpan #WeightliftingForSeniors #CreateTheBestMe 📨 Newsletter: https://createthebestme.com/newsletter/   👀 Connect With Me: Website: https://createthebestme.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/createthebestme Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carmenhecox/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@carmenhecox YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@createthebestme LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carmen-hecox   📽️ Video Request: https://forms.office.com/r/LvLV1AsBfv

    54 min

  8. MAR 12

    Your 3 PM Slump Has Nothing to Do with Age

    Ever wonder why you always seem to crash at 3 PM, eyelids heavy, brain fog taking over, and the only solution your body screams for is sugar or caffeine? You’ve probably been told it’s just getting older or a willpower issue, but that’s not the real story. In this episode, I break down the real science behind the 3 PM energy crash, especially for women over 50. We’ll talk about how hormone changes, stress, and hidden “energy vampires” drain your tank before lunch and, most importantly, what you can do to fix it. Spoiler: It doesn’t involve another cup of coffee. If you’re ready to say goodbye to that relentless afternoon slump, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you keep your energy high and your boundaries firm so you can create the best you, every single day. What You'll Learn: Why your 3 PM crash isn’t about being lazy or getting older (really!)The surprising role your cortisol rhythm and estrogen drop play in energy lossThe 3 “energy vampires” that are draining your tank before noon: over-functioning, anticipatory anxiety, and the “false yes.”My 3-step protocol: simple, real-world fixes that actually work (including the protein anchor and 20-minute nothing break)How setting boundaries can be the single most powerful energy boost of midlifeDon’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this with a friend who’s always tired by 3 PM and drop a “NO MORE LEAKS” in the comments if you’re ready to reclaim your energy!  ✨ Next week: Another amazing episode created just for you, don’t miss it!  📕 Resources:  https://createthebestme.com/ep159 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1949561/episodes/18510213  Related episodes: 🎧 Listen to these episodes next:  https://www.buzzsprout.com/1949561/episodes/18550342 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1949561/episodes/17441076   #MenopauseExhaustion #ChronicFatigue #WomenOver50 #EnergyLeaks #CreateTheBestMe #CortisolControl 📨 Newsletter: https://createthebestme.com/newsletter/   👀 Connect With Me: Website: https://createthebestme.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/createthebestme Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carmenhecox/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@carmenhecox YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@createthebestme LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carmen-hecox   📽️ Video Request: https://forms.office.com/r/LvLV1AsBfv

    9 min
See All (164)

Trailer

5
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

We're an age-positive podcast that celebrates the richness of midlife and beyond. Hosted by Carmen Hecox, a seasoned transformational coach, our platform provides an empowering outlook on these transformative years. With a keen focus on perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause, Carmen brings together thought leaders, authors, artists, and entrepreneurs for candid conversations that inspire and motivate.   Each episode is packed with expert insights and practical advice to help you navigate life's challenges and seize opportunities for growth, wellness, and fulfillment. From career transitions and personal development to health, beauty, and relationships, "Create The Best Me" is your guide to thriving in midlife. Tune in and transform your journey into your most exhilarating adventure yet.

Information

  • Creator
    Carmen Hecox
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    164
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Create The Best Me
  • Show Website
    Create The Best Me

You Might Also Like