In this episode of Closet Philosophy, hosts Jennine and Kristen sit down with Denise Pines, an influential filmmaker and leader in the effort to normalize conversations about perimenopause and menopause. 

She’s a Peabody-winning filmmaker, health advocate, founder of Tea Botanics and WisePause Wellness, and president of the Osteopathic Medical Board of California. Together, they unravel the cultural silence around menopause and perimenopause, discuss Denise’s influential documentaries (The M Factor and upcoming Before the Pause, and explore how personal style, society, and women's health intersect.

Highlights

• Denise’s personal and professional journey in women’s health, filmmaking, and advocacy

• The impact of The M Factor and the new focus on perimenopause in Before the Pause

• Why perimenopause and menopause remain so misunderstood—and what has to change in medicine and culture

• The legislative fight to improve menopause training for doctors in California (AB 360 and beyond)

• Common but rarely discussed menopause symptoms, and why early education matters

• How Denise balances her multifaceted career and the wellness routines that keep her energized

• When Denise met Prince (!)

• How aging changes personal expression, style, and purpose

Connect with Denise:

LinkedIn

The M Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause

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