Cooking show host Sunny Anderson was only nineteen when she was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, a form of Inflammatory Bowel Disease. But as Sunny puts it, "it sure as heck didn't pick the weak one!" Alongside board certified gastroenterologist Dr. Aja McCutchen, our guests discuss how this disease specifically affects women and Sunny shares her experience of living loud and proud with UC. If you've been recently diagnosed, this candid and informative discussion is an excellent starting place as you begin to navigate a life with UC.

Resources: 

• ThisIsLivingWithUC.com

Note: This podcast is provided for educational purposes only and is not meant to replace discussions with a healthcare provider. Please speak with your healthcare provider regarding any health questions. The opinions expressed in this podcast are the opinions of the individuals recorded and are not necessarily opinions endorsed by Pfizer. Guests in this podcast were compensated for their time. This podcast is only intended for residents of the United States. 

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Women's Health is your destination for compelling, stand-out series that touch on all aspects of women's health. While each series may focus on a different topic, they're united in their commitment to candid conversations that destigmatize women's health issues and highlight real life people. Learn more about each series featured below:

• menopause: unmuted is honest, hopeful, life-affirming, and features real women talking candidly about their menopause, and its impact on relationships, friends, family, and work. Each episode shares deeply personal accounts of the different emotional and physical symptoms experienced. Our host, leading women’s health expert Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, provides an expert perspective, busting myths and offering evidence-based information.

These podcasts are not designed to provide medical advice or promote or recommend any treatment option. This podcast feed is powered by Pfizer.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Maricia offers a candid look at her menopause journey, which has unfolded over decades. Despite dealing with hot flashes in her seventies, Maricia continues to approach this stage of life with positivity, showing women that aging can be a time of empowerment and reinvention.

With warmth and humor, she discusses her approach to thriving in this stage of life—staying engaged with her passions, celebrating her role as a grandmother, and encouraging women to embrace aging with confidence. Her story serves as a powerful reminder that life after menopause can be full of purpose and joy.

Useful Links: 

• Find more information and resources on menopause and certified menopause practitioners at The Menopause Society: menopause.org
• Are you interested in sharing your menopause story on the podcast? You can pass your contact details to the production team for further consideration by filling out this form. 

Disclaimer: menopause: unmuted is designed to raise awareness, encourage communication, and share information. It is not designed to provide medical advice or promote or recommend any treatment option.

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Women's Health is your destination for compelling, stand-out series that touch on all aspects of women's health. While each series may focus on a different topic, they're united in their commitment to candid conversations that destigmatize women's health issues and highlight real life people. Learn more about each series featured below:

• menopause: unmuted is honest, hopeful, life-affirming, and features real women talking candidly about their menopause, and its impact on relationships, friends, family, and work. Each episode shares deeply personal accounts of the different emotional and physical symptoms experienced. Our host, leading women’s health expert Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, provides an expert perspective, busting myths and offering evidence-based information.

These podcasts are not designed to provide medical advice or promote or recommend any treatment option. This podcast feed is powered by Pfizer.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Edi shares her powerful story of navigating menopause and the growth she experienced through this transitional life stage. Beginning her journey at the start of the pandemic, she faced physical symptoms, including hot flashes, stiffness, and vertigo, in addition to significant emotional changes. 

Rather than feeling defeated, she used these challenges to deepen her connection with her emotions and examine her lifestyle choices. Edi discovered that menopause provided a unique opportunity to let go of perfectionism and embrace a more balanced, flexible approach to work and life. Her story also highlights how menopause reshaped her views on intimacy, enhancing her relationship with her partner and fostering a deeper understanding of her own needs. Edi’s experience encourages listeners to view menopause as a chance for meaningful growth, connection, and self-acceptance.

Useful Links: 

• Find more information and resources on menopause and certified menopause practitioners at The Menopause Society: menopause.org
• Learn more about sex and menopause in one of our previous episodes An Intimate Menopause with Dr. Laurie Mintz
• Learn more about emotional health and menopause in one of our previous episodes A Calm Menopause with Dr. Pauline Maki
• Are you interested in sharing your menopause story on the podcast? You can pass your contact details to the production team for further consideration by filling out this form. 

Disclaimer: menopause: unmuted is designed to raise awareness, encourage communication, and share information. It is not designed to provide medical advice or promote or recommend any treatment option.

_______________

Women's Health is your destination for compelling, stand-out series that touch on all aspects of women's health. While each series may focus on a different topic, they're united in their commitment to candid conversations that destigmatize women's health issues and highlight real life people. Learn more about each series featured below:

• menopause: unmuted is honest, hopeful, life-affirming, and features real women talking candidly about their menopause, and its impact on relationships, friends, family, and work. Each episode shares deeply personal accounts of the different emotional and physical symptoms experienced. Our host, leading women’s health expert Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, provides an expert perspective, busting myths and offering evidence-based information.

These podcasts are not designed to provide medical advice or promote or recommend any treatment option. This podcast feed is powered by Pfizer.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this inspiring episode, Kwavi shares her journey of redefining life after 50 and helping other women do the same. As a certified life coach, she encourages women to see midlife as a time of growth, joy, and self-discovery. Kwavi discusses her own experiences with menopause and aging, challenging societal expectations, and embracing this stage with confidence.

Kwavi highlights the importance of self-care and self-acceptance during midlife, when many women question their identity and purpose. Listen in for Kwavi’s insights on breaking free from limiting beliefs, prioritizing self-love, and celebrating the unique opportunities that midlife brings.

Useful Links: 

• Find more information and resources on menopause and certified menopause practitioners at The Menopause Society: menopause.org
• Learn more about sex and menopause in one of our previous episodes An Intimate Menopause with Dr. Laurie Mintz
• Are you interested in sharing your menopause story on the podcast? You can pass your contact details to the production team for further consideration by filling out this form.

Disclaimer: menopause: unmuted is designed to raise awareness, encourage communication, and share information. It is not designed to provide medical advice or promote or recommend any treatment option.

_______________

Women's Health is your destination for compelling, stand-out series that touch on all aspects of women's health. While each series may focus on a different topic, they're united in their commitment to candid conversations that destigmatize women's health issues and highlight real life people. Learn more about each series featured below:

• menopause: unmuted is honest, hopeful, life-affirming, and features real women talking candidly about their menopause, and its impact on relationships, friends, family, and work. Each episode shares deeply personal accounts of the different emotional and physical symptoms experienced. Our host, leading women’s health expert Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, provides an expert perspective, busting myths and offering evidence-based information.

These podcasts are not designed to provide medical advice or promote or recommend any treatment option. This podcast feed is powered by Pfizer.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Patty shares her journey through perimenopause and menopause, highlighting the physical and emotional symptoms she faced, such as night sweats, migraines, and anxiety. Initially unaware of the menopause connection, she sought medical advice that helped her understand her changing body. She also found that many of her friends and coworkers were going through similar experiences, creating valuable support networks along the way.

Patty reflects on the lack of information provided by doctors, which left her feeling unprepared for this phase of life. However, she celebrates her newfound self-acceptance and healthier lifestyle, which includes no longer smoking and taking better care of herself. By sharing her story, Patty encourages women to listen to their bodies, seek help, and have more open discussion about menopause.

Useful Links: 

• Find more information and resources on menopause from The Menopause Society at: menopause.org
• Learn more about mental health and menopause in one of our previous episodes A Calm Menopause with Dr. Pauline Maki
• Are you interested in sharing your menopause story on the podcast? You can pass your contact details to the production team for further consideration by filling out this form. 

Disclaimer: menopause: unmuted is designed to raise awareness, encourage communication, and share information. It is not designed to provide medical advice or promote or recommend any treatment option.

_______________

Women's Health is your destination for compelling, stand-out series that touch on all aspects of women's health. While each series may focus on a different topic, they're united in their commitment to candid conversations that destigmatize women's health issues and highlight real life people. Learn more about each series featured below:

• menopause: unmuted is honest, hopeful, life-affirming, and features real women talking candidly about their menopause, and its impact on relationships, friends, family, and work. Each episode shares deeply personal accounts of the different emotional and physical symptoms experienced. Our host, leading women’s health expert Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, provides an expert perspective, busting myths and offering evidence-based information.

These podcasts are not designed to provide medical advice or promote or recommend any treatment option. This podcast feed is powered by Pfizer.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Darlene and Ben share their unconventional love story, which was challenged and strengthened by Darlene’s menopause experience. Although Ben is 20 years younger than Darlene, he has proven to be an exemplary partner and source of support for Darlene as she struggled with menopause symptoms. In addition to the broader impact of menopause symptoms on her daily life, Darlene also shares how her symptoms affected her work and how she felt unsupported in her workplace. This experience eventually led her to take time off work, however, it also inspired her to become an advocate to help educate, bring awareness, and support others going through menopause in the workplace. Ben has extended his committed support for Darlene by joining her in these advocacy efforts. The couple also talks about their shared passion for fitness and powerlifting, which has brought joy and confidence to Darlene in her midlife years. 

Content warning: this episode mentions the topic of suicidal ideation.  

Useful Links: 

• If you are in need of immediate support, you can call, text, or chat the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 (available free of charge in the United States 24/7)
• Learn more about strength training and menopause in one of our previous episodes A Strong Menopause with Susan Niebergall.
• Are you interested in sharing your menopause story on the podcast? You can pass your contact details to the production team for further consideration by filling out this form. 

_______________

Women's Health is your destination for compelling, stand-out series that touch on all aspects of women's health. While each series may focus on a different topic, they're united in their commitment to candid conversations that destigmatize women's health issues and highlight real life people. Learn more about each series featured below:

• menopause: unmuted is honest, hopeful, life-affirming, and features real women talking candidly about their menopause, and its impact on relationships, friends, family, and work. Each episode shares deeply personal accounts of the different emotional and physical symptoms experienced. Our host, leading women’s health expert Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, provides an expert perspective, busting myths and offering evidence-based information.

These podcasts are not designed to provide medical advice or promote or recommend any treatment option. This podcast feed is powered by Pfizer.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode shares the stories of Stephanie and Karen, two friends based in the north of England. In addition to both experiencing menopause, Stephanie and Karen both battled with breast cancer. The two have supported each other through “the really big stuff” and underscore the importance of strong friendships in midlife. This episode demonstrates that it is never too late to form deep friendships and how valuable it can be to connect with others who are going through similar experiences.

Useful Links: Listen to more episodes featuring the experience of fibroids (Kathie’s Story and Sateria’s Story), hysterectomy (Deborah’s Story), and cancer (Rebecca’s Story), during midlife.

Are you interested in sharing your menopause story on the podcast? You can pass your contact details to the production team for further consideration by filling out this form.

Disclaimer: menopause: unmuted is designed to raise awareness, encourage communication, and share information. It is not designed to provide medical advice or promote or recommend any treatment option.

_______________

Women's Health is your destination for compelling, stand-out series that touch on all aspects of women's health. While each series may focus on a different topic, they're united in their commitment to candid conversations that destigmatize women's health issues and highlight real life people. Learn more about each series featured below:

• menopause: unmuted is honest, hopeful, life-affirming, and features real women talking candidly about their menopause, and its impact on relationships, friends, family, and work. Each episode shares deeply personal accounts of the different emotional and physical symptoms experienced. Our host, leading women’s health expert Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, provides an expert perspective, busting myths and offering evidence-based information.

These podcasts are not designed to provide medical advice or promote or recommend any treatment option. This podcast feed is powered by Pfizer.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This episode features sisters Suzanne and Becky, as they reflect on their menopause journeys. Although they have similar outlooks on this stage of life, Suzanne entered perimenopause after undergoing surgery to manage symptoms due to uterine fibroids. In the episode, Becky and Suzanne recount their mother’s avoidant approach to menopause and more broadly, on differing attitudes to menopause across generations. Both sisters shared experiences of challenge and change in their working lives through midlife, and how they persevered through these times of turbulence. Their stories give an optimistic and grounded perspective on the menopause experience, with both women expressing a newfound sense of freedom they have both discovered in this life stage. 

Useful Links: 

• You can hear more about the experience of uterine fibroids and menopause by listening to Sateria’s Story from last season.
• Learn more about strength training and menopause in one of our previous bonus episodes  A Strong Menopause with Susan Niebergall.
• Are you interested in sharing your menopause story on the podcast? You can pass your contact details to the production team for further consideration by filling out this form.

Disclaimer: menopause: unmuted is designed to raise awareness, encourage communication, and share information. It is not designed to provide medical advice or promote or recommend any treatment option.

_______________

Women's Health is your destination for compelling, stand-out series that touch on all aspects of women's health. While each series may focus on a different topic, they're united in their commitment to candid conversations that destigmatize women's health issues and highlight real life people. Learn more about each series featured below:

• menopause: unmuted is honest, hopeful, life-affirming, and features real women talking candidly about their menopause, and its impact on relationships, friends, family, and work. Each episode shares deeply personal accounts of the different emotional and physical symptoms experienced. Our host, leading women’s health expert Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, provides an expert perspective, busting myths and offering evidence-based information.

These podcasts are not designed to provide medical advice or promote or recommend any treatment option. This podcast feed is powered by Pfizer.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The debut episode of this season features couple Karen and Mark, who got married in the midst of Karen’s menopause journey. Tender, uplifting, and honest: their story captures how good communication through the menopause experience can help strengthen a relationship. Karen has used her own experiences to help other women, and Mark adds an invaluable perspective, as the first male voice of the podcast. Their story is about getting second chances in midlife and exemplifies how important patience and good communication are for supporting a partner through menopause. 

Useful Links: 

• You can learn more about brain fog and how to help have a calm menopause in our previous bonus episode A Calm Menopause with Dr. Pauline Maki
• Are you interested in sharing your menopause story on the podcast? You can pass your contact details to the production team for further consideration by filling out this form.

Disclaimer: menopause: unmuted is designed to raise awareness, encourage communication, and share information. It is not designed to provide medical advice or promote or recommend any treatment option.

_______________

Women's Health is your destination for compelling, stand-out series that touch on all aspects of women's health. While each series may focus on a different topic, they're united in their commitment to candid conversations that destigmatize women's health issues and highlight real life people. Learn more about each series featured below:

• menopause: unmuted is honest, hopeful, life-affirming, and features real women talking candidly about their menopause, and its impact on relationships, friends, family, and work. Each episode shares deeply personal accounts of the different emotional and physical symptoms experienced. Our host, leading women’s health expert Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, provides an expert perspective, busting myths and offering evidence-based information.

These podcasts are not designed to provide medical advice or promote or recommend any treatment option. This podcast feed is powered by Pfizer.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Do you have a menopause experience that you’d like to share? Go to https://bit.ly/menopauseunmuted to share your contact details with our production team, who may be in touch. 

Seeking guests for our next season of menopause: unmuted! And this season, we’re giving guests the opportunity to invite a loved one, to help share their menopause story. This could be a husband or partner, a friend, sister, mother or daughter – anyone in your life who played a key role in your menopause experience.

menopause: unmuted is designed to raise awareness, encourage communication, and share information. It is not designed to provide medical advice or promote or recommend any treatment option.

_______________

Women's Health is your destination for compelling, stand-out series that touch on all aspects of women's health. While each series may focus on a different topic, they're united in their commitment to candid conversations that destigmatize women's health issues and highlight real life people. Learn more about each series featured below:

• menopause: unmuted is honest, hopeful, life-affirming, and features real women talking candidly about their menopause, and its impact on relationships, friends, family, and work. Each episode shares deeply personal accounts of the different emotional and physical symptoms experienced. Our host, leading women’s health expert Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, provides an expert perspective, busting myths and offering evidence-based information.

These podcasts are not designed to provide medical advice or promote or recommend any treatment option. This podcast feed is powered by Pfizer.

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.