Episodes

Discover the surprising connection between menopause and brain health as we unpack the mysteries of estrogen's role in protecting against dementia. Bree Luck shares the latest insights, including those from Dr. Lisa Mosconi's revelatory work, alongside personal anecdotes and lifestyle tips for cognitive well-being. We're also delighted to welcome artist and podcaster, Zya Be on the show, as we uncover the power of intuition and balance through physical activities, and the transformative potenti...

with special guest, Ann Douglas In this episode we delve deep into the heart of midlife with insights, stories, and a healthy dose of reality. We're joined by Ann Douglas, a renowned author and speaker, who shares her journey from being Canada’s go-to parenting advice author to exploring the nuanced and vibrant terrain of midlife. Listen in as we discuss the challenges, triumphs, and unexpected joys of navigating the middle chapters of our lives, debunking myths and celebrating the strength and...

This week, we sit down with the vibrant Sonia Hunt, author of the book “Nut Job: How I Crushed my Food Allergies to Thrive”. Sonia shares her personal journey from diagnosis to empowerment, offering invaluable insights and tips for anyone looking to navigate the often daunting landscape of food sensitivities. Whether you're a seasoned food allergy warrior or just starting to explore the impact of diet on well-being, this episode is packed with practical advice, heartfelt stories, and a generous ...

In this heartening episode of the Pause to Go podcast, host Bree Luck invites listeners on a journey of resilience and self-discovery during midlife. Multiple guests - Susan, Matthew, Anna, James, Betsy and more - share their engrossing personal journeys spanning careers, health battles, and deepening self-awareness. From embracing our shadow selves to returning to old passions, these stories inspire all to navigate the ebbs and flows of life with courage and optimism. The episode celebrates the...

In this episode, we delve into topics revolving around midlife transitions, self-discovery, sensuality, and sexuality. Bree Luck speaks with expert guest Chloe DeSousa, a sex, intimacy, and relationship coach with a focus on somatic approaches to engaging with oneself and others. Together, they navigate interesting aspects of body image, aging, trauma, and relationships. DeSousa explains her appreciation for Tantra's philosophy of connecting the body and spirit and shares tips on shedding shame ...

In this episode of Pause to Go, host Bree Luck engages in a heartfelt conversation with Dr. Cathy Ames Turner, a pastor, coach, scholar, and mother who achieved her doctorate in her sixties. Reflecting on her transformative journey from middle school to menopause, she speaks about her self-discovery, the evolution of her relationships, and her strides in education. The discussion shifts to meaningful experiences concerning issues like racial disparities in healthcare, the need for better menopau...

Welcome to this fourth episode in a series on Menopausal Hormone Therapy. Today, we're getting into the nitty-gritty of selecting the right healthcare provider for your menopause journey, recognizing the warning signs when it's time to reconsider your current provider, and exploring effective non-hormonal treatment options. Join me as we discuss how to navigate these crucial decisions with confidence and a bit of humor. Whether you're curious about non-hormonal therapies or just need some tips ...

In this heartfelt episode of 'Pause to Go', host Bree Luck diverges from her planned discussion on menopausal hormone therapy to commemorate an episode released a year ago featuring her grandmother, Anne Hodnett, whom Bree recalls as a significant role model. They discuss poignant experiences such as dealing with the loss of loved ones and surviving challenging times, highlighting the value of heartfelt conversations and self-awareness. Bree also invites Ronda Rich, Anne Hodnett's dear friend an...

In the third episode of this series on MHT, We discuss the critical topic of the history of women and people with uteruses and ovaries in clinical research. The episode dives into how these groups were only regularly included in clinical studies from the 1990s and discusses the consequences of this. Bree Luck unpacks the effects of this shift on menopausal hormone therapy, its efficacy, risks involved, and also the terms often involved in understanding related studies. The episode stresses the i...

In this solo episode, we dive into the topic of hormones and hormone therapy. Join Bree Luck as she explores the effects of hormones and discusses the various ways menopausal hormone therapy can alleviate side effects of perimenopause. 00:02 Welcome to Pause to Go 00:44 Hormones and Stress during the Holiday Season 01:46 Understanding Hormone Fluctuations 03:55 What is Menopausal Hormone Therapy? 04:47 Types of Estrogen Therapy 07:12 Combination Therapy with Estrogen and Progestogen 14:07...

In this episode, Bree discusses the hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause, including key hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, among others. The conversation also includes how these changes cause various symptoms, why these are natural transformations and not a disease, and when it's advisable to consult a doctor. Bree also shares some of her personal experiences regarding her hormone levels and her decision not to use hormone therapy (at least for now!), encou...

In this episode, Bree sits down with career coach Julie Artis to discuss the nuances and strategies for women navigating midlife career changes. Julie brings neuroscience into the mix, providing actionable tools for managing stress and reprogramming limiting beliefs. From overcoming the 'good girl' mentality to hands-on exercises for calming nerves before big events, Julie shares how shifting one's mindset can lead to powerful changes. Some of our topics of discussion include Julie's menopause...

Have you ever wondered about the connection between your ever-evolving roles in life and your identity? Our latest episode of 'Pause to Go Podcast' delves into this important topic. Join Bree Luck on a journey exploring 'The Shifting Identity in Perimenopause'. Explore your Inner Role System with Bree https://calendly.com/awkwardsage/90-minute-session Want to Support the Pause to Go Podcast? Here are three ways: 1. Leave a written review on Apple Podcasts or drop 5 stars on Spotify 2. ...

Lisa Manyon, the bestselling author of "Spiritual Sugar: The Divine Ingredients to Heal Yourself With Love" shares her midlife health journey and her unique perspective on "Healing with Love." Lisa not only shares her own account, which involved dealing with fibroids and cancer, but she also provides a roadmap for integrating love and spirituality into one's healing journey through her book (now available where many books are sold). Lisa discusses her Seven Spiritual Principles, which include: ...

Join me on the Pause To Go podcast as I celebrate 50 years by delving into the beautiful complexities of midlife and menopause. Discover 50 valuable insights and lessons (one for each year of my life) for embracing change, finding joy in small moments, and prioritizing self-care. Midlife is not a crisis, it's an opportunity. Embrace new beginnings and transformation. Move forward with confidence. - Bree Luck Check out the North American Menopause Society (NAMS) website to find a menopause spec...

Unleashing Your Authentic Self: Navigating Perimenopause with Compassion - Jamie Virostko In a world of hormonal peaks and valleys, Jamie Virostko shares her intimate journey through perimenopause, exposing the emotional rollercoaster of grief, sensuality, and self-discovery. But just when she thought she had found her footing, a series of life events left her questioning who she could trust. Find out how Jamie navigated these difficult situations and what it means for her journey through perim...

In this solo episode, we explore the concept of mindset during perimenopause and menopause. Our mindset significantly influences how we perceive ourselves and navigate life's changes. We'll discuss psychological studies supporting the impact of language and self-talk on personal outcomes. The goal is to cultivate a growth-oriented and positive mindset to enhance well-being and resilience. Segment 1: Understanding the Impact of Mindset Dr. Carol Dweck, a psychology professor, introduced two key...

If you're feeling a deep sense of frustration and sadness because your attempts to connect with your adult child are met with resistance or distance, then you are not alone! Join our guest, Carol Mishkin, as she shares her strategies for improving communication and fostering healthier relationships with adult children. In this episode, you will be able to: Understand how aging can become an avenue for personal evolution. Recognize the impact language has on constructing our world views. Get ...

Liberating Choices: Exploring the Power of Letting Your Hair Go Gray. "Dear Bree, Should I let my hair go gray? I'm a 45 year old woman, and I've been dyeing my hair since I was 17. Frankly, I'm sick of it. It's expensive and takes up so much time. On the other hand, I'm afraid that I'll look old if I go natural. Why am I afraid of looking old? What the heck is that about? " Sound familiar? Society tells you that in order to feel beautiful and accepted, you must conform to ageist beauty standa...

In the depths of despair, Cora Schenberg had just about given up , and was resolved to live a life of inexplicable pain. But after attending a workshop led by James Yates , she found strength to embark on a relentless pursuit for answers, refusing to accept the dismissals and vague explanations she had endured for far too long. Little did she know, this journey would lead her to a shocking revelation that would change everything... Keep advocating for yourself, even when doctors dismiss your co...

Does this sound familiar? Are you experiencing frequent migraines that are disrupting your daily life? Have you been told to simply power through the pain, only to find that it doesn't provide the relief you desperately need? We understand the frustration and agony you're going through. It's time to break free from ineffective actions and find real solutions. In this episode, we'll look at recent studies that examine the causes of migraines during perimenopause and provide you with examples of e...

This week's interview is with Wendy Leigh, an insightful educator and intimacy coach who has made it her mission to help individuals claim ownership of their desires and strengthen their self-awareness. With a previous career in nonprofit leadership development and a personal journey of redefining her own sexuality, Wendy is uniquely positioned to guide clients through an exploration of their own sexual experiences and relationships. Her work encourages open dialogue, acceptance and understandin...

On this episode of Pause to Go, host Bree Luck introduces the fourth season of the podcast, which will focus on midlife concerns and adventures, particularly perimenopause and menopause. Bree explains that she started the podcast to better understand what was happening in her own body and brain, and to explore the societal aspects of being a woman in midlife. Throughout the season, listeners can expect to hear heartfelt conversations, personal stories, and expert insights on making the most of l...

Dancer/Artist/Activist/Educator/Instigator Zap McConnell and I talk about why there's always a time to dance -- and discuss everything from finding a sense of time through movement to using dance as a form of activism. You can find Zap and support her phenomenal work through the following links: zap:::mcconnell​ zapmcconnell.com -MFA graduate in Dance Performance from Hollins University -creator/@hand productions -co-creator/chicken bank collective chickenbankcollective.com -creator/angr...