Menobodies

Beth Lohman

Menobodies Podcast: Empowering Your Midlife Journey Welcome to the Menobodies Podcast — the space where perimenopause and menopause aren’t whispered about, but spoken of loud and clear. I’m Beth Lohman — a mental-health therapist, personal trainer, and wellness pro with over 19 years of experience — and I’m here to bring you the insights, strategies, and community you deserve as you navigate this stage. In each episode, we’ll dig into the mind-body connection of midlife health, unravel the research (skip the gimmicks!), talk honestly about the changes in your body and mindset, and outline actionable plans you can start today. Whether you’re just stepping into perimenopause, already in full swing, or somewhere in-between — you’ll find a trusted voice, a clear path, and a community in your corner. What to expect: Real talk about hormonal shifts, fitness, mental health and how they all intersectEvidence-based insights and no-fluff guidance from someone who’s been in your shoesGuest experts, personal stories, and practical take-aways you can actually useA mission to empower you to know what’s best for your body and design your own menopause roadmap.Ready for a new chapter that’s informed, intentional, and rooted in what you need? Subscribe today and join the Menobodies community — because this isn’t about slowing down, it’s about showing up for yourself like never before.

  1. 1d ago

    Sitting with Emotion - Processing Hard Emotions

    ☕ Grab your coffee and settle in for a chitty-chat about something we all experience: uncomfortable emotions. Midlife brings a lot of change. We may be parenting children through new phases, caring for aging parents, grieving loved ones, navigating career changes, and adjusting to bodies and minds that seem to be changing right along with us. And sometimes? We just have to sit in it. In this episode of Menobodies, we're talking about what it means to feel sadness, guilt, doubt, grief, and other uncomfortable emotions without immediately trying to fix, avoid, numb, or run away from them. Beth shares a recent realization: feeling emotions deeply doesn't mean they have to consume us. We can feel sadness, cry, experience tension or anxiety, and still continue moving through life. 💛 In this episode, we talk about: Why so many Millennials and Gen Xers were never taught how to normalize difficult emotions* What it really means to "sit with" an emotion* Learning to get comfortable feeling uncomfortable* Expanding our emotional window of tolerance * Why feeling sad doesn't automatically mean something is wrong* How movement, breathing, and gentle self-awareness can help emotions lose some of their power* Knowing when an emotion feels too overwhelming to manage alone and when professional support may help Sometimes strength isn't about avoiding hard feelings. Sometimes strength is allowing yourself to feel deeply and trusting that you can move through it. ✨ Menobodies, you are stronger than you think. You are allowed to feel deeply—and still be okay. If you're going through a hard time, you're not alone. Reach out and connect with the Menobodies community on social media or ema info@bethlohman.com Until next time, sending lots of love and light your way. 💛 Connect with Beth: 💌 Email: info@bethlohman.com  📱 Instagram & Facebook: @menobodies 🌐 Website: https://www.bethlohman.com/ 🗞️Newsletter:subscribe here

  2. Sep 3

    Electrolytes in perimenopause and menopause

    ☕ Welcome to Menobodies! Grab your coffee because today we’re talking about something you probably associate with kids’ sports, endurance athletes and Gatorade commercials… Want this podcast info sent to your inbox? Join the Menobodies newsletter (I promise not to spam you. It’s about 1x/month 🙂) Electrolytes! 💧⚡ But could electrolytes actually be helpful during perimenopause and menopause? I’ve been doing some digging to better understand the connection between hormones, hydration and electrolytes—and I’m sharing what I learned along with my own experience. 💧 Why Electrolytes During Perimenopause? Estrogen and progesterone play a role in fluid balance, and those hormones can fluctuate significantly during perimenopause. Add in hot flashes and night sweats, and dehydration can become another piece of the puzzle. We’ll talk about: What electrolytes actually areSigns of dehydrationHow hydration may affect muscles, nerves and balanceWhy drinking more water isn’t always the whole answerHydrating foodsElectrolyte drinks and what to look for ⚡ What Are Electrolytes? The big ones you’ve probably heard of are sodium, potassium and magnesium, but electrolytes also include chloride, calcium, phosphate and bicarbonate. They help support things like fluid balance, nerve signaling and muscle function. I’ll also share some of the symptoms I noticed for myself—including foot cramps, muscle twitches and changes in my balance—and what made me start paying closer attention to electrolytes. 🥤 Do We Need Gatorade? Maybe—but traditional sports drinks can contain a lot of added sugar, which may not be necessary for everyday hydration. We’ll talk about sugar, artificial sweeteners and my own experience giving up my beloved 32-ounce afternoon Diet Dr Pepper. 😂 🔎Electrolytes I Tried  I’ve experimented with several powdered electrolyte products, including: Celsius HydrationLMNTInstant Hydration I’ll share what I liked, what I noticed and how I compared them based on sodium, potassium, magnesium, sugar and sweeteners. Spoiler: I didn’t find one clear winner, but I did find that electrolytes seemed to help with some of the symptoms I was experiencing. ⚠️ Important Reminder This is my experience and education—not medical advice. Symptoms like fatigue, dizziness, muscle cramps, heart palpitations and balance changes can have many causes, so talk with your healthcare provider before changing your hydration or electrolyte routine. I’ve also included my sources so you can do your own research and bring them to your provider. 💬 Have you noticed changes in hydration, muscle cramps or dizziness during perimenopause? Or do you have an electrolyte product you swear by? Come chat with me! 📱 Facebook & Instagram: Menobodies 📧 info@bethlohman.com 🛒 Here are the links for the electrolyte products I tried. I’m an Amazon Associate, so purchases through those links may provide a small amount of support for Menobodies and bethlohman.com. Celcius HydrationLMNTInstant Hydration 📚 ReferencesWinona Menopause Dehydration: Managing Thirst and Fluid RetentionCalcium, potassium, magnesium, and sodium are key electrolytes that support bone health, muscle function, and many other body systems affected by hormonal fluctuations during menopause.  Summary: need to stay hydrated. Hormones cause dehydration.Not always electrolyte additives.Menopause Natural Solutions Electrolytes for the Menopausal TransitionThe electrolyte family includes vital minerals like sodium, potassium, chloride, magnesium, calcium, phosphate, and bicarbonate. Summary: lists what electrolytes do in body and symptoms of being lowWarning: sells her productsElectrolytes & Midlife: What Every Woman Over 40 Should KnowSummary: simple breakdownSuggested electrolytesMenopause Natural Solutions:Electrolytes for the Menopausal TransitionWhat electrolytes do in the bodyLink to what they do in peri/menopauseLMNT Article How Electrolytes Fuel Hormone Balance for WomenGreat article, while it’s by a company, does not push the product, qualified authorSimple readGreat explanations Connect with Beth: 💌 Email: info@bethlohman.com  📱 Instagram & Facebook: @menobodies 🌐 Website: https://www.bethlohman.com/ 🗞️Newsletter:subscribe here

  3. Aug 27

    Breast Health in Midlife - My Journey, Mammograms, MRIs, Biopsy, and Advocacy

    ☕️ Hey there, Menobodies! Grab your favorite drink and settle in for a chitty chat because today I’m sharing a very personal update. First, a few fun midlife moments—from my inexplicable love of dumpsters and decluttering 😂 to VHS nostalgia and another unsuccessful attempt to convince my dad to join me on the podcast. Then we’re getting into the big topic: my breast health journey. ❤️ If you’ve been listening for a while, you may remember me talking about my mammogram, dense breast tissue, my family history of breast cancer, and getting a breast MRI. Today, I’m walking you through what happened next—including an ultrasound, a breast MRI with biopsy, a whole lot of waiting, some unexpected bruising, and finally… benign results! 🙌 I’m also talking about what it felt like to be supported by the women caring for me during the biopsy, the emotional moment when I got the results, and what healing looked like afterward. And because healthcare isn’t just about the medical procedure, we’re talking about advocacy and the cost of care, including some pretty shocking insurance estimates and why I believe we all need to become better advocates for ourselves. Plus, a few more health updates—including my second colonoscopy, an iron infusion, and where things currently stand with my perimenopause symptoms. ❤️ The biggest takeaway: Take care of your breast health, ask questions, know your options, check with your insurance, and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. And remember, around here there is NO TMI. If you have questions about my experience, send them my way! In this episode: ✨ My breast health journey from mammogram to biopsy ✨ Why my family history and dense breast tissue led to additional screening ✨ What a breast MRI and biopsy were actually like ✨ The incredible women who supported me during the procedure ✨ Waiting for—and finally receiving—benign biopsy results 🙌 ✨ Healing, bruising, ice packs, and the joys of wearing multiple sports bras 😂 ✨ Why checking with your insurance before procedures matters ✨ Healthcare costs and the importance of advocacy ✨ My second colonoscopy and the doctor with the power washer 😂 ✨ An iron infusion and ongoing perimenopause care ✨ A reminder to be patient, keep asking questions, and advocate for yourself 💗 Take care of your girls, Menobodies. And if you have questions, you can always reach out through Menobodies on Facebook or Instagram or email info@bethlohman.com. Connect with Beth: 💌 Email: info@bethlohman.com  📱 Instagram & Facebook: @menobodies 🌐 Website: https://www.bethlohman.com/ 🗞️Newsletter:subscribe here

  4. Aug 20

    Secrets in PeriMenopause, Feeling Alone

    💬 You’re Not the Only One Last week, we talked about the many symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. This week, Beth digs into something that can make those symptoms even harder: feeling alone in what we’re experiencing. We’re often taught what is “appropriate” to talk about—and menopause symptoms aren’t always on that list. That silence can leave us questioning ourselves, feeling embarrassed, anxious, frustrated, ashamed, or wondering, “Is this just me?” ☕️ In this episode, Beth shares some real-life moments from her week, including anxiety, guilt, parenting stress, a questionable Facebook Marketplace purchase 😂, and a neighborhood grandpa who came through when she needed a little extra support. Then we get into the bigger conversation: What happens when we stop keeping our menopause experiences to ourselves? Beth explores ways to start feeling less alone—from talking with someone you trust, finding a support group, joining a community, or simply being brave enough to say, “Hey, I’m struggling with this too.” ❤️ You don’t have to navigate perimenopause or menopause in isolation. There are people who get it, and there is support available. 🏡 Plus, there’s exciting news: bethlohman.com is officially LIVE! It’s your new home base for Menobodies, menopause education, resources, courses, and more. And you can find your way there through menobodies.com too! In this episode: ✨ Why menopause symptoms can feel so isolating ✨ The shame and judgment that can keep us quiet ✨ How talking about our experiences can create connection ✨ Finding support through friends, groups, therapy, and community ✨ Why you might find menopause conversations in unexpected places ✨ A reminder that you are not the only one going through this ✨ The launch of bethlohman.com 🎉 Connect with Beth: 💌 Email: info@bethlohman.com  📱 Instagram & Facebook: @menobodies 🌐 Website: https://www.bethlohman.com/ 🗞️Newsletter:subscribe here

  5. Aug 13

    Menopause Symptoms: The Ultimate Perimenopause Symptom Round-Up

    🔥 The Perimenopause & Menopause Symptom Round-Up Think of this episode as the grandkid round-up from Encanto — except instead of rounding up grandchildren, we're rounding up menopause symptoms. And yes, apparently my brain can remember an Encanto lyric perfectly while simultaneously forgetting why I walked into a room. 🌡️ The Classic Symptoms You probably know about:Hot flashesNight sweatsFatigueBrain fogMemory problemsForgetting words mid-sentenceForgetting why you walked into a roomWeight gain, especially around the midsectionSleep problemsDifficulty falling asleepWaking during the night and staying awake for hoursAnd yes, I walked into a room and forgot why I was there at least four times before noon last week. 🙄 💧 Skin, Hair & Body Changes Perimenopause can also show up in ways you might not immediately connect to hormones: Dry skinDry eyesItchy or crawling skin sensationsOily skinAcneHair thinningWeak or brittle nailsIncreased facial hairChanges in body odorDry mouthTaste changes 🦴 Pain, Muscles & Physical Changes Other potential symptoms and changes include: Joint painHeadaches or migrainesLoss of muscle mass (sarcopenia)Bone loss/osteoporosisWeak pelvic floorUrinary incontinenceStool incontinenceTingling in the hands, arms, or feet Estrogen plays an important role in many systems throughout the body, including bone and muscle health — which is one reason the transition through menopause is about so much more than hot flashes. 🚽 Urinary & GI Symptoms Yep… we're going there. Hormonal changes can also be associated with:UTIsChanges in bladder functionConstipationBloatingOther gastrointestinal changes And apparently my body has chosen constipation as its personal brand. 😂 ❤️ Sexual Health Hormonal changes can affect sexual health, too, including: Decreased libidoVaginal drynessPain during sexOther changes in sexual function These are common conversations in menopause care — but they're still conversations many women aren't having with their doctors. 🫀 Other Physical Symptoms Some women also experience: Heart palpitationsTinnitus/ringing in the earsSore gumsAllergies or changes in allergy symptoms And yes, sometimes the symptom is something you would never in a million years think was connected to perimenopause. 🩸Symptoms You May Notice in Your Lab Work Some changes aren't necessarily things you feel right away. They may show up through bloodwork or other medical testing. These can include changes in: CholesterolA1CInsulin sensitivity/resistanceThyroid functionBlood pressureCortisolLiver health For me, skyrocketing cholesterol was actually my first clue that something was changing. I didn't know it could be connected to perimenopause. I just assumed I had somehow done something wrong. That is part of why understanding the broader picture matters. 🧬 Other Health Changes As estrogen levels change, some women may also experience new or more noticeable health conditions. Examples discussed in this episode include: Autoimmune conditionsADHD symptoms or diagnosisArthritis This is one area where I really encourage you to talk with your healthcare provider rather than assuming every new symptom is “just aging.” 🧠 Mental Health Symptoms Matter Too And we absolutely cannot forget the brain. Perimenopause can affect mental and emotional health, including: Mood swingsIncreased anxietyDepressionIrritabilityFeeling more emotionally sensitiveFeeling less able to cope with stressFeeling like you don't handle things the way you used toChanges in empathy or emotional bandwidth If you find yourself thinking, “Why am I suddenly struggling with things I used to handle just fine?” — that's worth paying attention to. 📣 You Are Allowed to Advocate for Yourself Here's the biggest takeaway: Don't automatically chalk new symptoms up to getting older. If something is changing in your body, talk to your healthcare provider. And if you're told: “Your labs are normal, so it can't be perimenopause.” …you are allowed to ask questions. You are allowed to advocate. You are allowed to bring resources. And if necessary, you are allowed to find another provider who will listen. Your symptoms deserve to be taken seriously. 🌱 Lifestyle Still Matters Hormones aren't the only piece of the puzzle. Nutrition, movement, stress management, sleep, and self-care can all play important roles in how we feel during perimenopause and menopause. I've talked about several of these topics in previous Menobodies episodes, so go digging through the archives! 💬 What Did I Miss? And ya'll… I know I missed some. There are SO many possible symptoms and experiences during perimenopause and menopause. So tell me: 👉 What symptoms have you experienced? 👉 Did I miss one that surprised you? 👉 Is there a symptom you're wondering about? Send me a message on Facebook or Instagram at @Menobodies, or email me at info@bethlohman.com. If there's something you want me to research, tell me! It might just become a future episode. ❤️ One Last Thing So go watch Encanto. Google “I’ve Got the Power.” Or just take a deep breath and remind yourself: You are not crazy. Your body is going through a massive transition, and the symptoms can be weird, frustrating, confusing, and downright exhausting. You don't have to figure it all out alone. I'm here for ya. ❤️ 📚 Resources Mentioned 🔹 Midi — Complete List of Menopause Symptoms A comprehensive look at menopause symptoms across different ages and stages. 🔹 Dr. Mary Claire Haver — The New Perimenopauese A widely discussed resource on perimenopause, symptoms, hormones, and midlife health. 🎧 Keep Listening If you're navigating perimenopause or menopause and want honest conversations about hormones, menmenopause and want honest conversations about hormones, mental health, symptoms, wellness, and the ridiculousness of midlife, check out the other episodes of Menobodies. Because sometimes you need research. Sometimes you need resources. And sometimes you just need someone to say: “Yep. Me too.” 💜 Connect with Beth: 💌 Email: info@bethlohman.com  📱 Instagram & Facebook: @menobodies 🌐 Website: https://www.bethlohman.com/ 🗞️Newsletter:subscribe here

  6. Jul 30

    The Sandwich Generation, Basement Boxes & Holding All the Feelings

    This week's episode is a quick coffee chat ☕ because life has been moving at marathon pace...in a sprint. Between kids needing us, aging parents needing us in new ways, and all the everyday chaos (yes, even the ongoing constipation saga 😅), I wanted to check in with you. After spending the weekend helping my dad sort through decades of memories in his basement, I found myself laughing at old letters, school keepsakes, dance costumes, and photos while also sitting with the grief that comes with watching our parents grow older. ❤️ We talk about: 📦 What it's really like living in the "sandwich generation" 💌 The joy of rediscovering old memories and family history 🧢 Finding photos and keepsakes from my dad's time as a Vietnam veteran 💔 Why end-of-life conversations are incredibly hard—but such a gift for the people we love 🌿 Learning to hold grief, gratitude, laughter, and joy at the same time If you're navigating this season of caring for aging parents while raising kids, I hope this episode reminds you that every emotion is welcome. You are not alone, and there is no right way to feel your way through this chapter. 💛 I'd love to hear your story. Connect with me on Instagram or Facebook @menobodies or email info@bethlohman.com. Connect with Beth: 💌 Email: info@bethlohman.com  📱 Instagram & Facebook: @menobodies 🌐 Website: https://www.bethlohman.com/ 🗞️Newsletter:subscribe here

  7. Jul 23

    Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy: What every woman, especially those in midlife, need to know with pelvic floor PT Rachel

    Have you ever wondered if leaking when you laugh, sneeze, cough, or run is just part of getting older—or having babies? Spoiler alert: It's common, but it isn't something you have to live with. 🙌 In this episode of Menobodies, I'm joined by my own pelvic floor physical therapist, Rachel, who helped me go from leaking during runs to graduating pelvic floor therapy (yes...I rang the bell! 🔔). Together, we answer your biggest questions about pelvic floor health, menopause, pregnancy recovery, pain during sex, constipation, back pain, and why Kegels aren't always the answer. 💛 In This Episode We Discuss: ✨ What pelvic floor physical therapy actually is—and who can benefit 🏃‍♀️ Why leaking urine during exercise, coughing, or laughing is treatable 👶 Why pelvic floor therapy should be standard after having a baby 💪 Internal vs. external pelvic floor therapy (and why internal exams are always your choice) 🤰 How C-sections affect your core, scar tissue, and pelvic floor 🩺 Whether insurance typically covers pelvic floor physical therapy ⏳ How long it usually takes to see improvement 🏠 Why your home exercises matter just as much as your appointments ❌ Why doing endless Kegels may actually make symptoms worse 🚽 Pelvic floor habits that may be making bladder issues worse—including "just in case" peeing 💕 How pelvic floor therapy can help reduce pain during sex 🧠 The connection between stress, trauma, the nervous system, and your pelvic floor 🦴 Why back pain, hip pain, and even foot mechanics can affect your pelvic floor 💩 The surprising connection between constipation and pelvic floor dysfunction 🙋‍♀️ How to know when it's time to seek help—and why you don't have to "just live with it" 💬 My Biggest Takeaway One of my favorite reminders from Rachel: Just because something is common doesn't mean it's normal. Whether you've had babies, are navigating perimenopause or menopause, struggle with leakage, constipation, pelvic pain, or painful sex—there are treatment options available, and you deserve to know about them. ❤️ Remember You do not have to suffer in silence. Pelvic floor physical therapy can improve your quality of life, and in many cases you may even be able to schedule an evaluation without a physician referral (depending on your insurance). If this episode helps you, please share it with a friend, sister, coworker, or anyone who needs to hear that help is available. 💛 🎧 Subscribe & Connect If you're loving the Menobodies podcast, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share the show—it helps more women find honest conversations about perimenopause, menopause, hormones, and thriving through midlife. Follow Menobodies: 📱 Instagram & Facebook: @Menobodies 📧 Questions or episode ideas: info@bethlohman.com Referenced in Podcast Melinda Gates (not Meg as I said in podcast 🙄) donates $215 million (not $25 like I also messed up in podcast 🙄🙄) - Time Article One of many articles regarding states and Menopause Employment Law - WorkCare Article Connect with Beth: 💌 Email: info@bethlohman.com  📱 Instagram & Facebook: @menobodies 🌐 Website: https://www.bethlohman.com/ 🗞️Newsletter:subscribe here

  8. Jul 16

    Breathwork in Perimenopause: The Healing Practice I Didn't Expect

    Summer has been...well, a lot. 😅 Between a dog wearing the cone of shame 🐶, recording this episode while fighting off a surprise summer cold 🤧, staring at a never-ending to-do list (hello school supplies ✏️📚), and my ongoing battle with constipation 💩 (because apparently that's my personality now 🙃), it would have been easy to spend this episode venting about all the ways perimenopause has been showing up lately. Instead, I want to share something that completely surprised me—and honestly, moved me. ✨ A guided breathwork session. Not just taking a few deep breaths at therapy. Not a quick meditation. A full experience that used intentional breathing as a pathway into emotional healing, nervous system regulation, and reconnecting with myself. If you're a little skeptical (or think this sounds a bit too "woo"), stay with me. 💛 The science behind breath and the nervous system is real, and this experience gave me a whole new appreciation for what our bodies are capable of. 🎙️ In This Episode ✨ A peek behind the scenes of my chaotic summer life 🤧 Why I showed up to record with a summer cold and an overflowing to-do list 💩 My latest perimenopause update—including the constipation saga that just won't quit 🌬️ What a guided breathwork session actually looks like from beginning to end 😬 Why I was surprisingly nervous before the session 💛 How breath became a doorway into emotional awareness and healing 🧠 The connection between breathing, your nervous system, stress, and emotional regulation 🌸 Why I believe breathwork can be an incredibly supportive practice during perimenopause and midlife 📍How to find a qualified breathwork facilitator in your own community—or virtually 💭 My Biggest Takeaway Perimenopause isn't just about hormones. It's about learning new ways to support our bodies, calm our nervous systems, process emotions we've been carrying for years, and create space to heal. Sometimes healing doesn't come from another supplement, another lab test, or another thing to add to your checklist. Sometimes it starts with something as simple—and as powerful—as your next breath. 💕 💛 Resources Mentioned - Danielle 🌬️ If you're in the Indianapolis area, I highly recommend connecting with Danielle for breathwork sessions. If you're outside Central Indiana, ask about virtual sessions or search for a certified breathwork facilitator near you. Bolder Life Solutions Website IG: bolderlifesolutions TikTok: bolderlifesolutions Danielle's art and dancing inspiration IG: drawingndancing 🎧 If This Episode Resonated... Please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with a friend who's navigating perimenopause, menopause, or simply feeling overwhelmed by the mental and emotional load of midlife. Every share helps more women realize they're not alone. 💛 Connect with Menobodies 📱 Follow along for more honest conversations about perimenopause, menopause, hormones, pelvic health, constipation, mood changes, and thriving in midlife. Because no one should have to navigate this season alone. ❤️ Connect with Beth: 💌 Email: info@bethlohman.com  📱 Instagram & Facebook: @menobodies 🌐 Website: https://www.bethlohman.com/ 🗞️Newsletter:subscribe here

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Menobodies Podcast: Empowering Your Midlife Journey Welcome to the Menobodies Podcast — the space where perimenopause and menopause aren’t whispered about, but spoken of loud and clear. I’m Beth Lohman — a mental-health therapist, personal trainer, and wellness pro with over 19 years of experience — and I’m here to bring you the insights, strategies, and community you deserve as you navigate this stage. In each episode, we’ll dig into the mind-body connection of midlife health, unravel the research (skip the gimmicks!), talk honestly about the changes in your body and mindset, and outline actionable plans you can start today. Whether you’re just stepping into perimenopause, already in full swing, or somewhere in-between — you’ll find a trusted voice, a clear path, and a community in your corner. What to expect: Real talk about hormonal shifts, fitness, mental health and how they all intersectEvidence-based insights and no-fluff guidance from someone who’s been in your shoesGuest experts, personal stories, and practical take-aways you can actually useA mission to empower you to know what’s best for your body and design your own menopause roadmap.Ready for a new chapter that’s informed, intentional, and rooted in what you need? Subscribe today and join the Menobodies community — because this isn’t about slowing down, it’s about showing up for yourself like never before.

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