HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS

Comedy legend Margaret Cho joins us for a refreshingly honest and often hilarious conversation about her standup tour, Choligarchy and she shares why she believes laughter is one of the most powerful tools for speaking truth to power. We also dive into one of the most surprising topics of the episode: menopause. Margaret opens up about why she calls it one of the best things that has ever happened...

In this episode, Dr. Amie Hornaman, the “Thyroid Whisperer” and author of The Thyroid Fix, breaks down the complexities of thyroid health, explaining why millions of people continue to struggle with symptoms despite being told their thyroid is "normal." She explores the key differences between hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, with a special focus on Hashimoto's disease, the autoimmune condition...

Kim Alexis, one of the most recognizable supermodels of the 1980s, joins the podcast to share her inspiring journey from the fashion runway to broadcasting, authorship, and podcasting. Discovered by a modeling agency in Buffalo at just 17 years old, Kim quickly rose to international fame and became part of an elite generation of supermodels who defined an era of fashion. Beyond modeling, Kim succe...

On this special bonus episode, we sit down with filmmaker Anthony Lucero, writer and director of Paper Bag Plan, a moving film that shines a light on the realities of family caregiving, disability advocacy, and long term planning for individuals with special needs. Drawing from his own deeply personal experiences, Anthony shares how caring for his physically disabled brother and coping with the lo...

This week, we are sharing an inspirational conversation with activist and author, Deborah Santana. In her new book, Loving the Fire: Choosing Me, Finding Freedom, Deborah shares her powerful story of resilience, self discovery, and reclaiming her voice after years of putting others first. Raised by pioneering interracial parents and married for decades to legendary musician Carlos Santana, Deborah...

This week we are discovering a fresh perspective on midlife with psychologist Dr. Margie Lachman, author of Primetime. Drawing on more than 30 years of research, Dr. Lachman challenges common myths about the so called “midlife crisis,” revealing that middle adulthood is often a period of peak well-being, personal growth, resilience, and life satisfaction. She explains how personality can continue...

On this week’s episode, we step into the glamorous world of Morgan Fairchild, one of television’s most iconic leading ladies. Morgan is a celebrated actress known for portraying powerful, sophisticated women on hit series including Search for Tomorrow, Dallas, Flamingo Road, Paper Dolls, Falcon Crest, Friends, and Murphy Brown. We explore her remarkable career and her passionate advocacy for envir...

This week’s podcast guest is Bill Gifford, bestselling author and science journalist. He joins us to discuss his new book, HOTWIRED: How the Hidden Power of Heat Makes Us Stronger, and the groundbreaking research on heat therapy, sauna benefits, and human performance. Drawing from cutting edge research in evolutionary biology, thermal physiology, longevity, and mental health, Bill explains how sau...

Calling all New Zoo Review kids! In this unforgettable conversation, Doug and Emmy Jo share the inspiring story behind the creation of The New Zoo Revue, their real life love story, and the lasting cultural impact the series continues to have on longtime fans. From surprising crowds at Comic-Con appearances to hearing heartfelt memories from viewers who grew up with the show, their journey is fill...

Show Notes/Links: www.hotflashescooltopics.com New Episode with Mariel Hemingway! Actress and wellness advocate Mariel Hemingway joins Bridgett and Colleen to discuss authentic living, women’s empowerment, and thriving in midlife. Mariel shares how her programs Rise to Remember and Return of the Queen help women reconnect with their inner strength, overcome feelings of invisibility, and build heal...

Karen Duffy returns with an inspiring conversation about resilience, reinvention, and living beautifully, no matter the circumstances. From her iconic days as an MTV VJ and actress to becoming a New York Times bestselling author, Karen shares unforgettable stories and hard earned wisdom from a life lived in the spotlight and beyond. But this episode goes deeper. As one of over 51 million U.S. adul...

Looking for the go-to encyclopedia on women’s health? We found it. This week’s guest, Meghan Rabbitt, author of The New Rules of Women’s Health, shares a science-backed roadmap to thriving at every age. Featuring research from 130+ leading female health experts, this comprehensive resource covers hormones, fertility, menopause, chronic pain, and more. This book is empowering women to make smarter,...

Former Atlanta Mayor, Keisha Lance Bottoms joins us for a powerful and deeply personal conversation about her new memoir, The Rough Side of the Mountain. She opens up about the family challenges that shaped her path to public service and the defining moments from her time as mayor of Atlanta including navigating cyberattacks, leading through the COVID-19 pandemic, and responding to the nationwide...

I Choose Me! In this inspiring podcast episode, Jennie Garth discusses her new book I Choose Me and she opens up about midlife reinvention, overcoming limiting beliefs, and learning to prioritize herself. Jennie shares candid insights on divorce, motherhood, mental health, and rebuilding confidence, while exploring tools like radical acceptance, the “We’ll See Method,” and self-reflection. She als...

Get ready for an amazing conversation with someone you love to hate! Ann Dowd (aka Aunt Lydia) joins us for a candid conversation about building a career on her own terms and why her most powerful roles came later in life. Best known for her chilling portrayal of Aunt Lydia in The Handmaid’s Tale, Dowd reflects on the faith and resilience it took to become one of the today's most compelling actors...

Insurance coverage is confusing—and that confusion hurts people when they’re sick.  In this episode Rebecca Bloom, attorney, longtime women’s health advocate, and author of When Women Get Sick, explains how to navigate the healthcare and insurance landscape so you get the care and support you need. We cover choosing the right coverage, understanding in-network vs. out-of-network costs, verifying w...

JoBeth Williams returns to HFCT! We are thrilled to continue our conversation with actress and producer JoBeth Williams.  JoBeth is busier than ever with the movie, Not Without Hope, and producing the recent Actor Awards.  She also shares more great stories from her past movies including Kramer vs. Kramer. Her most exciting new position is first time grandmother to her granddaughter, Lilly. She is...

Gen X isn’t aging differently, we’re built to last! That’s just one of the sharp, funny one-liners shared by content creator Sherri Shindal, who’s built a massive audience of over 7 million followers by celebrating Generation X life. Sherri didn’t set out to become a viral creator, but her relatable, sarcastic takes on growing up in the 70s and 80s struck a nerve in a big way. From “no video to pr...

We are not worthy! Our guest this week is iconic actress June Squibb, whose remarkable career continues to thrive at 96. Best known for her acclaimed performances in films like Nebraska, Thelma, and Eleanor the Great, Squibb has built one of the most enduring acting careers in Hollywood. In this episode, June discusses her latest projects, including her recent run on Broadway in Marjorie Prime and...

SUBSCRIBE to Hot Flashes & Cool Topics podcast for free on any podcast platform. Show Notes/Website: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Do you know there are ways to age proof your brain? Do you know the tips and tricks for brain training? This week, we have invited Dr. Majid Fotuhi to explain how we can age proof our brain.  Dr. Fotuhi is a neurologist, neuroscientist and professor at Johns Hopkins...

It's time for a bonus episode. Our guest, Dani Alpert, joins Bridgett to share relatable life stories form her new book, Hello? Who is This? Margaret?  The book describes blind ambition, stubborn optimism, and perseverance filtered through candid stories that feel like pep talks wrapped in cautionary tales.  In other words, a genx life story. Show Notes/Links: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Find Us...

It's a common sight: Couples walking with weighted vests.  Are they worth the hype? The quick answer is yes! In today's episode, our guest, Michael Easter talks about how carrying weight can dramatically improve strength, endurance, mood, and longevity.  His new book, Walk With Weight: The Definitive Guide to Rucking offers actionable guidance for every level, from beginners with a backpack to eli...

New Episode with Elizabeth Vargas.   Many will remember Elizabeth Vargas as a journalist from shows including 20/20 and Good Morning America. Elizabeth has traveled the world covering breaking news stories, reporting in-depth investigations, and conducting newsmaker interviews. She currently anchors “Elizabeth Vargas Reports” (weeknights, 7 p.m. ET), an hour-long weekday news program on NewsNation...

* Request A copy of the Free Financial Caregivers Resource Guide: LINK   We don't talk enough about the financial toll of caregiving.   Many caregivers are not just dealing with a loved one's emotional and physical needs, but financial needs as well.   In today's new episode, we are sharing expert advice from Certified Financial Planner, Beth Pinsker.  Beth's new book, My Mother's Money: A Guide t...

Powerful women over 50 are finally taking center stage on TV. This week, we’re thrilled to welcome Emmy Award winning actress, producer, and director Carrie Preston for an inspiring conversation about her career, creativity, and personal journey. As the lead of the hit series Elsbeth, Carrie is redefining what it means to see strong, dynamic women over 50 on television.  Intelligent women who are...