The Dusty Muffins

The Dusty Muffins

Welcome to The Dusty Muffins, where three menopause specialists unite to inspire, empower, and uplift you through the wild ride of menopause and perimenopause. We're here to answer your burning questions, educate, and advocate with a touch of humor and a lot of heart. Whether you're curious, confused, or ready for authentic discussion, pull up a chair and join us. Remember: while we're clinicians, we're not your doctors. This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. We encourage you to partner with your own medical clinician to address your unique health needs. This is The Dusty Muffins, where menopause meets sisterhood and strength! CONTACT: Rebbecca Hertel, DO, MSCP Osteopathic Midlife Health Rebbecca Hertel Consulting, LLC Website Instagram Linkedin Facebook Substack Aoife O’Sullivan, MD, MSCP Portland Menopause Doc LLC Website Instagram Linkedin Christine Hart Kress, DNP, MSCP Website Instagram Linkedin Become a supporter of this podcast: TheDustyMuffins333@gmail.com

  1. The Hidden Heart Threat Most Doctors Never Talk About: Lipoprotein (a)

    1D AGO

    The Hidden Heart Threat Most Doctors Never Talk About: Lipoprotein (a)

    Your heart is telling a story—but are you running the right tests to hear it? In this eye-opening and essential episode of The Dusty Muffins, our expert trio—Dr. Aoife O'Sullivan (MD, MSCP), Dr. Christine Hart Kress (DNP, MSCP), and Dr. Rebbecca Hertel (DO, MSCP)—sit down with preventive cardiologist Dr. Sunny Intwala to decode what standard cholesterol panels are missing and why menopause is a critical inflection point for heart health. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in women, yet so much of the risk remains invisible until it's too late. This conversation is your guide to getting ahead of the curve with cutting-edge prevention. In this episode, you'll discover: 🫀 The Hidden Risk Factor: Why Lipoprotein(a) —a genetic marker you've likely never heard of—is a game-changer for assessing your true cardiovascular risk, and why routine tests won't catch it. 📋 Beyond the Basic Panel: The advanced assessments (like APO-B and coronary artery calcium scores) that provide a much clearer picture of your heart health than standard cholesterol testing alone. 👩‍👧 The Family History Factor: Why your mother's or grandmother's heart story is critical medical data, and how to translate that into actionable prevention. ⚖️ Menopause as a Reveal: How the hormonal shifts of midlife can unmask underlying cardiovascular risks, making this the perfect moment for a heart health deep dive. 💊 Medications, Myths & Momentum: The truth about statins, the genetics passed to you by your parents, new breakthrough medications, and why fear should never stand between you and life-saving cardiovascular disease risk prevention. Tune in for an episode that could literally save your life. It's time to stop guessing and start scanning, testing, and advocating for the heart you'll rely on for decades to come. The Dusty Muffins: 📸 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/thedustymuffins 🔗 Linktree → https://linktr.ee/thedustymuffins Hosts: 👩⚕️ Dr. Aoife O'Sullivan → https://www.instagram.com/portlandmenopausedoc 👩⚕️ Dr. Rebbecca Hertel → https://www.instagram.com/drrebbeccaherteldo 👩⚕️ Dr. Christine Hart Kress → https://www.instagram.com/christinehartkress_dnp Guest – Dr. Sunny Intwala of Nuvance Health, now part of Northwell Health: 🌐 Nuvance Health → https://www.nuvancehealth.org 📱 Nuvance Health Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/nuvancehealth 📄 MDPI Profile → https://www.mdpi.com/2077-0383/15/2/740 💼 LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/sunny-intwala-md-mba-2b9a128/ Disclaimer: The Dusty Muffins are doctors, but they're not YOUR doctors. This is for entertainment and informational purposes only. Always consult your own healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.

    1 hr
  2. The Menopause Reset: Muscle, Metabolism, and Sustainable Health

    FEB 8

    The Menopause Reset: Muscle, Metabolism, and Sustainable Health

    Why does the number on the scale creep up during menopause, and why do old diets suddenly stop working? In this clarifying and empowering episode of The Dusty Muffins, our expert trio—Dr. Aoife O’Sullivan (MD, MSCP), Dr. Christine Hart Kress (DNP, MSCP), and Dr. Rebbecca Hertel (DO, MSCP)—tackle one of the most common and frustrating midlife challenges head-on. This conversation goes far beyond simple "calories in, calories out." The docs break down the hormonal overhaul happening in your body and provide a science-backed, actionable strategy for feeling strong and healthy. In this episode, you’ll discover: ⚖️ The Hormonal Reality: How shifting estrogen and testosterone levels directly impact your metabolism, fat storage, and hunger signals. 💪 Your #1 Metabolic Asset: Why preserving and building muscle mass is the most critical factor for managing weight and energy during menopause—and how to do it. 🍗 The Plate Revolution: The specific dietary shifts you need to make (hint: more protein, smart fats) to support your changing body, not fight it. 🧠 The Stress-Weight Connection: How chronic stress hijacks your hormones and practical strategies to manage it for better metabolic health. 🦠 Gut Health = Hormone Health: The surprising link between your microbiome and your hormonal balance, and why gut health is non-negotiable. Tune in for an episode that replaces shame and confusion with a clear, compassionate, and effective roadmap. It's time to work with your body, not against it. The Dusty Muffins: 📸 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/thedustymuffins 🔗 Linktree → https://linktr.ee/thedustymuffins Hosts: 👩⚕️ Dr. Aoife O’Sullivan → https://www.instagram.com/portlandmenopausedoc 👩⚕️ Dr. Rebbecca Hertel → https://www.instagram.com/drrebbeccaherteldo 👩⚕️ Dr. Christine Hart Kress → https://www.instagram.com/christinehartkress_dnp Disclaimer: The Dusty Muffins are doctors, but they’re not YOUR doctors. This is for entertainment and informational purposes only. Always consult your own healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.

    41 min
  3. Pain is Not a Part of the Plan: Reclaiming Sexual Health with Dr. Andrea Martin

    FEB 1

    Pain is Not a Part of the Plan: Reclaiming Sexual Health with Dr. Andrea Martin

    Is pain during sex "just something you deal with"? Absolutely not. In this essential and liberating episode of The Dusty Muffins, our expert trio—Dr. Aoife O’Sullivan (MD, MSCP), Dr. Christine Hart Kress (DNP, MSCP), and Dr. Rebbecca Hertel (DO, MSCP)—are joined by sexual health specialist Dr. Andrea Martin to dismantle the myths and address the real issues surrounding women's intimate well-being. This is a candid, no-holds-barred conversation that moves from the bedroom to the doctor's office, giving you the language and knowledge to advocate for your pleasure and health. In this episode, you’ll discover: 🛑 Why "Powering Through" is Dangerous: The real physical and emotional consequences of ignoring pain during sex, and why it should never be normalized. 🗺️ Your Body's Blueprint: A crucial refresher on female anatomy (yes, including the clitoris!) and why knowing your body is the first step to empowerment. 💬 The Truth About Faking It: How pretending to enjoy sex harms both you and your partner, and how to start an honest conversation about pleasure and desire. 🏥 How to Be Your Own Advocate: Practical scripts for talking to your doctor about intimate pain, getting the right referrals (like pelvic floor physical therapy), and challenging misdiagnoses. 🛠️ Real Solutions That Work: From non-invasive treatments for adhesions to managing conditions like painful bladder syndrome, learn about the effective options available to you. Tune in for an episode that replaces shame with solutions and silence with advocacy. Your sexual health is non-negotiable. Disclaimer: The Dusty Muffins are doctors, but they’re not YOUR doctors. This is for entertainment and informational purposes only. Always consult your own healthcare provider for personalized medical advice. The Dusty Muffins: 🔗 Linktree → https://linktr.ee/thedustymuffins 📸 Instagram → @thedustymuffins Hosts: 👩⚕️ Dr. Aoife O’Sullivan → @portlandmenopausedoc 👩⚕️ Dr. Rebbecca Hertel → @drrebbeccaherteldo 👩⚕️ Dr. Christine Hart Kress → @christinehartkress_dnp Guest – Dr. Andrea Martin: 📸 Instagram → @andrea.sexplains.it.all 🌐 Website → https://glowhealthbyandrea.com

    45 min
  4. From Fear to Facts: The End of the Black Box Warning

    JAN 18

    From Fear to Facts: The End of the Black Box Warning

    Pop the confetti—it’s a landmark moment for women’s health! In this celebratory and vital episode of The Dusty Muffins, our expert trio—Dr. Aoife O’Sullivan (MD, MSCP), Dr. Christine Hart Kress (DNP, MSCP), and Dr. Rebbecca Hertel (DO, MSCP)—break down the FDA’s historic removal of the black box warning from estrogen products and what it really means for you. For decades, flawed science cast a shadow of fear over hormone therapy, sidelining millions from safe, effective treatment. No more. The docs dive into the past, present, and future of menopause care with clarity and conviction. In this episode, you’ll discover: 📦 Why the "Black Box" Was All Wrong: How outdated, problematic studies created decades of unnecessary fear and confusion around estrogen. 🛡️ The Gold Standard for GSM: Why local (vaginal) estrogen is not only safe but should be the first line of defense for genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), including urinary symptoms. 💊 Your Body, Your Blueprint: The critical importance of individualized hormone therapy—because one-size-fits-all never worked. 🗣️ Your Right to Better Care: How to advocate for yourself with a healthcare system still catching up on the latest evidence, and why you should never settle for dismissive care. 🔮 The Future is Nuanced: How women’s health is evolving beyond just hormones to include holistic, evidence-based practices that prioritize your quality of life. Tune in for an empowering episode that turns a bureaucratic update into a rallying cry for smarter, fearless, and personalized healthcare. The Dusty Muffins: 📸 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/thedustymuffins 🔗 Linktree → https://linktr.ee/thedustymuffins Hosts: 👩⚕️ Dr. Aoife O’Sullivan → https://www.instagram.com/portlandmenopausedoc 👩⚕️ Dr. Rebbecca Hertel → https://www.instagram.com/drrebbeccaherteldo 👩⚕️ Dr. Christine Hart Kress → https://www.instagram.com/christinehartkress_dnp Disclaimer: The Dusty Muffins are doctors, but they’re not YOUR doctors. This is for entertainment and informational purposes only. Always consult your own healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.

    48 min
  5. The Midlife Conversation You Deserve: A Breast Specialist's Perspective

    11/17/2025

    The Midlife Conversation You Deserve: A Breast Specialist's Perspective

    Navigating the intersection of menopause and breast health can be confusing and fraught with misinformation. In this essential episode of The Dusty Muffins, our specialist trio—Dr. Aoife O’Sullivan (MD, MSCP), Dr. Christine Hart Kress (DNP, MSCP), and Dr. Rebbecca Hertel (DO, MSCP)—sit down with breast health expert Dr. Sabrina Sahni, M.D., to bring clarity and confidence to this critical topic. This is a deep dive into the facts you need to make empowered decisions for your body. They tackle outdated myths, highlight the latest evidence, and provide a clear path forward for personalized care. In this episode, you’ll discover: 🔬 PEt & Breast Health: The Real Story: Cutting through the fear and misconceptions surrounding hormone therapy and its risks, based on current evidence-based practices. 📄 The Critical Role of Breast Density: Why your mammogram report’s mention of "dense breasts" is a key piece of your health puzzle and how it impacts your screening needs. 🧬 Who Needs Genetic Testing? A clear guide on understanding your family history and when to consider genetic testing for breast cancer risk. 🎓 The Education Gap: Why many clinicians are still misinformed about menopause management and how you can advocate for better, more nuanced care. 💪 Your Health, Your Voice: Practical strategies for becoming your own best advocate, ensuring your quality of life is a top priority in every medical decision. The Dusty Muffins: 📸 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/thedustymuffins 🔗 Linktree → https://linktr.ee/thedustymuffins Hosts: 👩⚕️ Dr. Aoife O’Sullivan → https://www.instagram.com/portlandmenopausedoc 👩⚕️ Dr. Rebbecca Hertel → https://www.instagram.com/drrebbeccaherteldo 👩⚕️ Dr. Christine Hart Kress → https://www.instagram.com/christinehartkress_dnp Guest – Dr. Sabrina Sahni: 🌐 Mayo Clinic Profile → https://www.mayoclinic.org/biographies/sahni-sabrina-m-d/bio-20509454 📸 Instagram → @sabrinaksahnimd Tune in for an episode that replaces anxiety with actionable knowledge, empowering you to take control of your health during midlife and beyond. Disclaimer: The Dusty Muffins are doctors, but they’re not YOUR doctors. This is for entertainment and informational purposes only. Always consult your own healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.

    47 min
  6. From Silence to Strategy: A Modern Playbook for Menopause

    11/09/2025

    From Silence to Strategy: A Modern Playbook for Menopause

    A new generation is changing the conversation around menopause, and this episode is your front-row seat! The specialist trio of The Dusty Muffins—Dr. Aoife O’Sullivan (MD, MSCP), Dr. Christine Hart Kress (DNP, MSCP), and Dr. Rebbecca Hertel (DO, MSCP)—are joined by author and women's advocate Lauren Tetenbaum for a powerful discussion on taking control of your health journey. This conversation is all about action, access, and advocacy. They tackle how to build a proactive plan for menopause and why a unified front is the future of effective treatment. In this episode, you’ll discover: 🔑 Knowledge as Your Key: How arming yourself with information is the ultimate form of empowerment, transforming you from a passive patient into an informed advocate for your own care. 🩺 The Power of the Dream Team: Why the best menopause care isn't a solo mission, but a collaborative effort that can involve your doctor, a coach, and your entire support network. 🚫 Smashing the Stigma: The importance of breaking generational silence and having open, honest conversations to normalize this universal life transition. 🌟 The Generational Shift: How millennials are proactively preparing, asking tough questions, and demanding better, more personalized healthcare options than ever before. 💼 From Personal to Professional: How Lauren’s own journey fueled her mission to educate and empower women through writing, training, and advocacy. The Dusty Muffins: 📸 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/thedustymuffins 🔗 Linktree → https://linktr.ee/thedustymuffins Hosts: 👩⚕️ Dr. Aoife O’Sullivan → https://www.instagram.com/portlandmenopausedoc 👩⚕️ Dr. Rebbecca Hertel → https://www.instagram.com/drrebbeccaherteldo 👩⚕️ Dr. Christine Hart Kress → https://www.instagram.com/christinehartkress_dnp Guest – Lauren Tetenbaum (The Counselaur): 🌐 Website → https://thecounselaur.com 📸 Instagram → @thecounselaur Tune in for an energizing and strategic episode that will leave you feeling equipped, supported, and ready to demand the care you deserve. Disclaimer: The Dusty Muffins are doctors, but they’re not YOUR doctors. This is for entertainment and informational purposes only. Always consult your own healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.

    39 min
  7. Thriving, Not Just Surviving: A Modern Guide to Menopause Treatment

    11/03/2025

    Thriving, Not Just Surviving: A Modern Guide to Menopause Treatment

    Ready to cut through the confusion and get the real scoop on hormone therapy? In this powerhouse episode of The Dusty Muffins, our specialist trio—Dr. Aoife O’Sullivan (MD, MSCP), Dr. Christine Hart Kress (DNP, MSCP), and Dr. Rebbecca Hertel (DO, MSCP)—break down everything you need to know about navigating menopause with knowledge, humor, and confidence. This is your ultimate field guide to the change, straight from the experts who live and breathe this stuff. They’re demystifying the science and sharing the practical tips you won't always get from a rushed doctor's appointment. In this episode, you’ll discover: 💊 Your Hormone Therapy Menu: A clear breakdown of the options—from patches and gels to pills—and how to figure out what might be right for YOU. 🔬 Bioidentical Explained: What this term actually means and how these hormones differ from what your body produces naturally. 📊 Why Tracking is Everything: How logging your symptoms is the first step to taking control of your menopause journey and having productive conversations with your doctor. 🩺 Be Your Own Advocate: Why many doctors aren't menopause experts and the crucial questions you need to ask to get the care you deserve. ❤️ The Lube Lowdown: Straight talk on vaginal estrogen and why lube isn't a luxury, it's a necessity for comfort and intimacy. Tune in for an episode that’s equal parts science class, support group, and comedy hour. Consider this your official permission slip to ask questions, demand better, and thrive through menopause. The Dusty Muffins: 📸 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/thedustymuffins 🔗 Linktree → https://linktr.ee/thedustymuffins Hosts: 👩⚕️ Dr. Aoife O’Sullivan → https://www.instagram.com/portlandmenopausedoc 👩⚕️ Dr. Rebbecca Hertel → https://www.instagram.com/drrebbeccaherteldo 👩⚕️ Dr. Christine Hart Kress → https://www.instagram.com/christinehartkress_dnp Disclaimer: The Dusty Muffins are doctors, but they’re not YOUR doctors. This is for entertainment and informational purposes only. Always consult your own healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.

    23 min
  8. Anxiety, ADHD & The Change: Navigating Menopause & Mental Health

    10/27/2025

    Anxiety, ADHD & The Change: Navigating Menopause & Mental Health

    Feeling unlike yourself? You're not alone, and it's not your fault. In this crucial episode of The Dusty Muffins, our expert trio—Dr. Aoife O’Sullivan (MD, MSCP), Dr. Christine Hart Kress (DNP, MSCP), and Dr. Rebbecca Hertel (DO, MSCP)—delve deep into the mental and emotional whirlwind of perimenopause and menopause. This is the conversation that validates what so many women feel but are often told to just "push through." The docs break down the powerful science behind why your brain feels like it's betraying you and what you can actually do about it. In this episode, you’ll discover: 🧠 The Hormone-Mind Connection: The scientific link between fluctuating hormones and very real mood changes, anxiety, and depression. 💊 Beyond the Prescription Pad: Why SSRIs aren't always the answer and when addressing the hormonal root cause is the key to effective treatment. 📝 The Meno-D Questionnaire: Learn about this essential tool that helps clinicians identify menopause-related mood disorders—so you can get the right diagnosis. ⚡ ADHD Unmasked: How the hormonal shifts of menopause can suddenly unmask or exacerbate ADHD symptoms in women who never struggled before. ❤️ Your Mental Health is Health: Actionable steps for self-care, open communication, and prioritizing your well-being during this transformative transition. Tune in for an episode that offers validation, clarity, and hope. It's time to stop blaming yourself and start empowering yourself. The Dusty Muffins: 📸 Instagram → https://www.instagram.com/thedustymuffins 🔗 Linktree → https://linktr.ee/thedustymuffins Hosts: 👩⚕️ Dr. Aoife O’Sullivan → https://www.instagram.com/portlandmenopausedoc 👩⚕️ Dr. Rebbecca Hertel → https://www.instagram.com/drrebbeccaherteldo 👩⚕️ Dr. Christine Hart Kress → https://www.instagram.com/christinehartkress_dnp Disclaimer: The Dusty Muffins are doctors, but they’re not YOUR doctors. This is for entertainment and informational purposes only. Always consult your own healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.

    43 min
See All (44)

4.9
out of 5
27 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Dusty Muffins, where three menopause specialists unite to inspire, empower, and uplift you through the wild ride of menopause and perimenopause. We're here to answer your burning questions, educate, and advocate with a touch of humor and a lot of heart. Whether you're curious, confused, or ready for authentic discussion, pull up a chair and join us. Remember: while we're clinicians, we're not your doctors. This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. We encourage you to partner with your own medical clinician to address your unique health needs. This is The Dusty Muffins, where menopause meets sisterhood and strength! CONTACT: Rebbecca Hertel, DO, MSCP Osteopathic Midlife Health Rebbecca Hertel Consulting, LLC Website Instagram Linkedin Facebook Substack Aoife O’Sullivan, MD, MSCP Portland Menopause Doc LLC Website Instagram Linkedin Christine Hart Kress, DNP, MSCP Website Instagram Linkedin Become a supporter of this podcast: TheDustyMuffins333@gmail.com

Information

  • Creator
    The Dusty Muffins
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    44
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright The Dusty Muffins, LLC
  • Show Website
    The Dusty Muffins

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