228. Hot flashes, menopause, and an entrepreneur who wants to solve women's problems

As someone who has been deeply immersed in the world of aging and senior care, I've noticed that there’s a significant aspect of aging that often goes unspoken: menopause and perimenopause. Despite the numerous conversations about other transitional stages in life, this particular journey at the end of our reproductive cycles is seldom discussed openly.

What is even more puzzling is that so many of us experience it, yet it remains a taboo subject.

Menopause and Perimenopause: The Unspoken Journey

Have you ever found yourself wondering why menopause isn’t ever talked about? I certainly have. As I explored the topic further alongside Carin Luna-Ostaseski, the founder of "Hot or Just Me," I realized how crucial it is to shine a light on these changes that profoundly impact our lives.

Carin began her journey into understanding menopause in her early forties, grappling with hot flashes, brain fog, and anxiety. Despite common symptoms that many women experience, she found herself asking, "Is it hot or is it just me?" This sparked the creation of her online shop, offering products and solutions for managing these symptoms.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Perimenopause
01:26 Introducing Carin Luna-Ostaseski
02:42 Carin's Journey with Perimenopause
03:40 Lori's Experience with Menopause
04:36 Discussing Hormone Replacement Therapy
05:49 Hot Flashes and Night Sweats
08:09 Carin's Business: Hot or Just Me
09:44 Menopause and Andropause
12:01 Carin's Background in Whiskey
14:01 Supporting Women Entrepreneurs
15:22 Menopause in the Workplace
16:30 Starting a New Business at Any Age
26:04 Tips for Better Sleep
29:55 Conclusion and Promo Code

Community and Support in Menopause

In my conversation with Carin, we explored various facets of menopause that are essential yet often overlooked. From hormonal changes affecting libido and causing discomfort during intercourse to lifestyle adjustments, there's much to learn.

Carin's shop provides a treasure trove of solutions, from cooling sheets and blankets to low libido products, catering to the nuanced needs women face during this transition.

Understanding the Broader Impacts

Carin also highlighted the importance of discussing the broader implications of menopause and how they intertwines with our personal and professional worlds. She emphasized the need for more initiatives in workplaces to support women undergoing menopause, ensuring the right resources and accommodations are available. This not only aids women in coping well but also ensures they can continue contributing effectively to their workplaces.

The Silver Linings of Midlife Entrepreneurship

Interestingly, Carin’s journey also echoes a broader theme of reinvention during midlife. Her transition from a successful whiskey entrepreneur to founding "Hot or Just Me" illustrates the potential to embark on new ventures and create meaningful change, even in later stages of life. It’s inspiring to see how life experiences, challenges, and passions can coalesce to foster new beginnings and opportunities for growth.

Creating Conversations That Matter

The discussions with Carin and experiences shared by women bring to light the necessity of having open, honest conversations about menopause. Whether through support networks, products designed to alleviate symptoms, or workplace initiatives, it’s time we started treating menopause as a journey worth discussing instead of a hidden struggle.

By sharing these insights and stories, I hope to encourage more women to engage in these

If you’re intrigued by Carin’s story or looking for resources to help manage menopause, I invite you to check out "Hot or Just Me" for innovative and supportive solutions. Additionally, if you’re passionate about aging with grace and style, continue following my podcast and website for more empowering content.