Answering Menopause Questions You're Too Shy To Ask – With Comedian Victoria Emes And Kelly Bedford (funniest episode yet?)
In this week’s episode of Is It Hot In Here?, menopause doctor Dr Naomi Potter is joined by the brilliant duo Victoria Emes and Kelly Bedford to answer all the menopause questions you’ve always wanted to ask (but maybe never dared).From meno-pot bellies and mystery period changes, to “what on earth is going on down there?” and learning how to give far fewer Fs — nothing is off limits.You might know Victoria from her laugh-out-loud social media videos, and Kelly from her 20+ years as a personal trainer helping women feel stronger, fitter and more confident. Together they co-founded FitBtch Power, a fitness platform designed to support women through perimenopause and beyond — and their honest, hilarious, inclusive approach makes this a must-listen.If you’re feeling overwhelmed, confused, or just want to be prepared for what’s coming, this episode will have you laughing, nodding along, and most importantly, feeling empowered.(Friendly warning: don’t listen on a full bladder, as uncontrollable laughter is inevitable).Stay up to date with Is It Hot In Here? podcast on Instagram: @hotinhere_podcastFollow Victoria Emes below:Victoria's Instagram: @victoriaemesVictoria's TikTok: @victoriaemesVictoria's YouTube: @victoriaemesFollow Kelly Bedford below:Kelly's Instagram: @fitnessfoxlondonKelly's website: https://www.fitnessfoxlondon.com/ Check out Fitch Btch:Fit Btch website: https://www.fitbtchpower.com/ Fit Btch's YouTube: @fitbtchpowerFit Btch's Instagram: @fitbtchpowerFit Btch's TikTok: @fitbtchpowerFollow Dr. Naomi Potter below:Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotterNaomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotter00:00 – Meet Victoria and Kelly (and how Fit Btch began)03:01 – Victoria’s leap from gold leotards to viral comedy07:39 – What Fit Btch is and how it helps midlife women10:50 – Victoria’s changing cycles and perimenopause chat online13:36 – Myth-busting belly fat, sweat and skin changes17:53 – Vaginal changes, dryness… and “scarfing” explained20:17 – Signs of perimenopause and when to consider HRT24:04 – She gave HRT to her dog!27:52 – HRT vs lifestyle: finding the right balance29:45 – Why beginner-friendly fitness boosts women’s confidence38:34 – Social media, perimenopause fears and going sober50:57 – The Urban Menopause Dictionary: lightning fanny, brain farts & more#menopause #victoriaemes #naomipotter
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Can Masterchef Champion Thomasina Miers Turn Me Into A Chef? (nutrition in menopause)
Warning: do not listen on an empty stomach!For this week's episode of Is It Hot In Here? podcast, Dr Naomi Potter is joined by chef, writer and Masterchef Champion, the wonderful Thomasina Miers.One thing you should know about Naomi is that she might be a world-class menopause Doctor, but she's not the best in the kitchen... But can Tommi change this? The podcast team set Naommi the challenge of following one of the simplest (and yummiest!) recipes in Tommi's new Mexican cookbook. In this episode, Naomi and Tommi also discuss:🌶️ Learning to love food again🌶️ How to nourish your body in midlife (even if you hate cooking)🌶️ The link between food and hormones 🌶️ Tommi's perimenopause experience🌶️ Menopause and ADHDAnd so much more.This episode is full of flavour, vibrancy, and comfort. Do let us know if you enjoy!Stay up to date with Is It Hot In Here? podcast on Instagram: @hotinhere_podcastFollow Tommi Miers below:Tommi's Instagram: @thomasinamiers Tommi's TikTok: @tho_masinamiersTommi's new cookbook Mexican Table: https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/470665/mexican-table-by-miers-thomasina/9781837833900 Follow Dr. Naomi Potter below:Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotterNaomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotter00:00 – Introduction to Thomasina Miers01:42 – From Masterchef winner to food campaigner04:18 – Why cooking feels overwhelming for busy mums07:05 – How to make healthy meals simple and fast10:12 – Nutrition during perimenopause and menopause13:47 – The power of seasonal eating17:20 – Managing burnout with nourishing food21:09 – Why food culture impacts women’s health24:45 – Small swaps to boost daily nutrition28:36 – Finding joy in cooking again32:14 – Quick recipes for midlife energy36:25 – Why gut health matters in menopause40:02 – Naomi and Thomasina’s personal food tips43:10 – Final thoughts on food, women, and midlife#menopause #masterchef #nutrition
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How Your Own Trauma Impacts Menopause – Child Therapist Kate Silverton Explains
How can past trauma crop lead to burn out, menopausal problems, and other health issues later in life?In this episode, Dr Naomi Potter talks to former BBC News presenter turned child therapist Kate Silverton. She opens up about her own menopause journey; in her 20s, Kate had a life threatening health issue that led to the removal of her left ovary. Years later, the faced a full hysterectomy which plunged her into medically induced menopause overnight. As this experience unfolded, Kate learnt the importance of not 'grinning and bearing' our way through menopause, but recognising the mental load that comes with it and the need to ask for help. But we aren't just focussing on Kate's own experience today. We're shedding light on a fascinating study that Kate brings to the table. Together, the pair unpick the link between past trauma and burnout in midlife, how unresolved childhood experiences can resurface during menopause, and the crucial role therapy can play in building resilience.Warm, wise, and full of honest truths, we hope you all enjoy this conversation.Stay up to date with Is It Hot In Here? podcast on Instagram: @hotinhere_podcastFollow Kate Silverton below:Kate's Instagram: @katesilverton Kate's TikTok: @katesilvertonofficialKate's website: https://www.katesilverton.com/Follow Dr. Naomi Potter below:Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotterNaomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotterFurther reading and sources for the link between childhood trauma and burnout later in life: Scared Sick by Meredith Wiley: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Scared-Sick-Childhood-Trauma-Disease-ebook/dp/B06XCD4L9SThe book Scared Sick: The Role of Childhood Trauma in Adult Disease by Robin Karr-Morse and Meredith Wiley explores how early life stress and trauma—especially in infancy and early childhood—can lead to long-term dysregulation of the nervous, immune, and endocrine systems.Key Conclusion Related to Women in Their Forties:The authors highlight that many women in their 40s begin to experience immune-related illnesses (like autoimmune disorders, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, or inflammatory conditions) that seem to appear “out of nowhere.” However, Scared Sick argues that these conditions are often the long-delayed effects of unresolved early trauma or chronic stress.00:00 – Kate Silverton’s menopause story02:02 – Surgical menopause and its immediate impact04:06 – Stopping HRT while travelling05:59 – Feeling low and visiting the GP08:55 – Realising the impact of losing ovaries10:46 – Deciding to restart HRT12:21 – Finding the right HRT dose14:27 – Options for changing HRT methods16:47 – GP knowledge and when to see a specialist17:24 – Menopause management as an art and a science18:38 – Factors affecting how HRT works19:05 – Testosterone replacement – who it’s for21:23 – Career change from journalism to child therapy25:07 – How childhood trauma can resurface at menopause28:58 – Addressing anxiety when HRT isn’t enough30:07 – The pressure on modern women and need for community33:09 – Research linking early trauma and menopause symptoms34:45 – Advice for menopausal women with a trauma history36:33 – Where to find trauma-informed help38:22 – The myth of perfection and self-compassion39:29 – Managing menopausal rage with children43:45 – Rebuilding communication with family during menopause48:59 – Where to find Dr Naomi Potter’s resources#katesilverton #menopause #childhoodtrauma
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Why Your HRT Isn't Working (and how to fix it)
Why is your Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) not working properly? Dr. Naomi Potter – menopause specialist – explains why in today's episode. From incorrect doses and unexpected side effects, there are a number of reasons why your HRT might not be offering the results you're hoping for. However, the brighter side is there is nearly always something that can be done about it.Please note, this episode is not a substitute for medical advice and we do encourage any women watching, who are struggling with their HRT for menopause, to speak to their own GP and seek further information where necessary. Stay up to date with the podcast by following us on Instagram at: @hotinhere_podcastFollow Dr. Naomi Potter below:Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotterNaomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotterNaomi’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568826081861&mibextid=wwXIfr&rdid=4ZBW1Wvx7aqTigrV&share_url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fshare%2F18evLF7Fep%2F%3Fmibextid%3DwwXIfr#00:00 – Introduction: Why your HRT might not be working00:29 – Why some women don’t feel benefits01:21 – Managing HRT side effects01:53 – Why it’s important not to switch HRT too soon02:14 – Is HRT a quick fix?03:12 – Common reasons HRT may not work03:40 – Reason 1: Your dose might be too low04:31 – Reason 2: You’re not absorbing it properly06:00 – Why symptoms can return over time07:54 – Lifestyle factors affecting your HRT08:27 – How activity and water impact HRT patch absorption09:44 – When to consider switching from HRT patches10:32 – HRT and bleeding: What to expect11:13 – Managing bleeding without a coil11:41 – Weight loss drugs and progesterone absorption12:40 – Mood-related side effects of progesterone13:29 – Adjusting how you take progesterone13:51 – What is a low-progesterone regime?14:18 – Oestrogen-related side effects: Migraine and breast tenderness15:21 – How to manage breast tenderness15:48 – HRT and fluid retention16:32 – Could your HRT product be faulty?18:15 – What to ask your doctor if HRT isn’t working18:42 – What are the alternatives to HRT?19:37 – Non-hormonal medications for symptom relief19:58 – Are herbal remedies effective for menopause?20:20 – Psychological therapies and complementary treatments20:45 – Final advice and where to learn moreFor more information and support about menopause, you can go to: https://www.menopausecare.co.uk/#hormonereplacementtherapy #hrt #menopause
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Everyone Said I Was Bipolar, But It Was ACTUALLY Menopause – Cally Beaton Finally Speaks Out
How can perimenopause be mistaken for bipolar disorder? In this episode, Dr Naomi Potter talks to comedian, writer and speaker Cally Beaton about how she was wrongly diagnosed with bipolar disorder when she was actually perimenopausal — a misdiagnosis that happens in more cases than you might realise. Cally also shares how she reinvented herself in midlife to become a stand-up comedian, how she's struggling to access the HRT she needs, and gets advice from Dr Naomi Potter on how to beat those menopause-induced nighttime surges of anxiety. This is an eye-opening conversation full of laughter, information, and great advice for midlife women.Stay up to date with Is It Hot In Here? podcast on Instagram: @hotinhere_podcastFollow Cally Beaton below:Cally's Instagram: @callybeatoncomedianCally's TikTok: @callybeatoncomedianCally's podcast Namaste Motherf**kers: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/namaste-motherf-kers/id1562113984Cally's new book Namaste Motherf**kers: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Namaste-Motherf-kers/dp/B08JJZF3MCFollow Dr. Naomi Potter below:Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotterNaomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotter00:00 – Intro to Cally00:28 – From TV boardrooms to comedy clubs00:59 – Joan Rivers gives life-changing advice02:33 – Taking the leap into standup03:21 – From corporate gloss to vulnerability04:26 – Learning through failure in comedy05:05 – Balancing comedy and corporate life05:35 – cComedy secret revealed in New York07:51 – The hormonal chaos of our 40s08:42 – Perimenopause is the real issue09:19 – When Cally hit rock bottom10:23 – Juggling too much and crashing10:54 – Post-stage breakdown and relentless tears11:25 – Accessing private psychiatric treatment12:08 – Diagnosed with bipolar at 4712:54 – Prescribed heavy-duty bipolar meds13:46 – Finally a GP mentions hormones14:16 – Realising it was perimenopause all along14:36 – Off bipolar meds, onto HRT15:08 – Misdiagnosis of women in psychiatry16:34 – Hormonal turbulence or psychiatric issue?17:14 – Fear of long-term bipolar medication18:01 – Finally coming off the wrong meds19:34 – Overprescribing and polypharmacy problems20:11 – HRT patch frustration begins20:49 – Side effects and stock issues22:10 – Why HRT access is so hard25:06 – Perimenopause symptoms: depression to anxiety25:55 – Hot flushes, night sweats and brain fog26:35 – The stubborn menopause tummy fat27:15 – Brain fog vs stage clarity27:51 – Crippling sleep anxiety in midlife29:02 – Sleep schedule struggles as a comedian29:26 – Cally’s current HRT regime30:03 – Trouble replacing the mirena coil30:56 – Alternative progesterone options31:48 – Regular pushback from GPs32:31 – Long-term safety of HRT33:36 – Alternatives to HRT patches34:35 – Chronic sleep deprivation struggles35:07 – Could progesterone help with sleep?35:28 – Questions from Cally’s community35:45 – When is a good time to stop HRT?36:24 – Managing withdrawal and symptoms36:46 – On max HRT and still foggy37:09 – Lifestyle factors beyond hormones38:05 – Absorption issues and patch quality38:28 – Testosterone and brain clarity39:00 – What to expect post-menopause39:49 – Hormonal chaos eventually settles40:44 – Libido tips and tricks41:15 – Understanding the causes of low libido43:12 – Cally’s upcoming book and tour44:07 – Fearless reinvention through midlife44:50 – Mess, midlife, and moving forward46:10 – Outro#callybeaton #naomipotter #namastemotherfuckers
Part open-clinic, part talk show, this is the podcast for women navigating perimenopause, menopause, and midlife health.
Each week, menopause Doctor Naomi Potter is joined by a new guest to explore the real-life impact of their hormonal changes. From hot flushes and anxiety, to brain fog and sleep problems, no topic is off limits.
Whether you’re wondering if HRT is right for you, want to restore your libido, or need a help managing menopause symptoms, this is a safe space for women to face their midlife insecurities. So settle in, embrace the hormones, and enjoy the laughs along the way.
UK