Closet Philosophy

• Ep. 22: Menopause, perimenopause, and personal power with 'The M Factor' producer Denise Pines

  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 If this episode resonated, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share Closet Philosophy with your friends!  

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• Ep. 21: Jennine and Kristen on the power of visibility after 40

  Jennine and Kristen dive deep into the complex experience of visibility for women as they age, sharing candid stories and discussing cultural, psychological, and societal shifts that impact self-expression and confidence beyond 40. This episode explores the challenges women face in retaining visibility, feeling confident, and expressing authentic style, offering hope and actionable insights for listeners. Key Topics: The first personal experiences of feeling invisible: Jennine and Kristen recount moments in retail and influencer settings where age influenced how they were treated. The myth that women’s value revolves around youth and male attention, and the shifting priorities toward self-authenticity in later years. Statistics from a menopause and aging study: Over two-thirds of women over 45 feel ignored by men in public spaces, and many cite issues like graying hair and access to fashionable clothing as confidence barriers. The challenge and power of speaking up: Including an incident at a coffee shop that went viral, and how fear of being labeled a "Karen" hinders self-advocacy for older women. Personal style as visibility: Discussion of how style can be a tool for self-expression and why hiding in “invisible” clothing is a missed opportunity during the most powerful years of women’s lives. Erasure of older women in media and fashion, contrasted with real examples of powerful, stylish women over 50, and how Hollywood continues to favor male experience at the expense of older female visibility. Breaking stereotypes: Examples from film, fashion, and real life illustrating authenticity, confidence, and visibility for women at any age. Quotes to Remember: “Women want to be seen for who they are now—not as a younger version of themselves.” “Visibility is not just about being seen by men; it’s about being recognized and respected in your own right.” “Now is the time to figure out what visibility means and how to pursue it with intention.” Call to Action: How do you want to be visible? Share your story with us—we want to hear from listeners! Drop a comment or get in touch to join the conversation on confidence, style, and living authentically at every age.  

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• Ep. 20: Persistence and reinvention: Musician and creator Cat Pierce on creativity, confidence, and personal style

  In this episode of the Closet Philosophy podcast, hosts Jennine and Kristen sit down with Cat Pierce—writer, artist, entrepreneur, and musician, best known as half of the band The Pierces. Cat shares her inspiring journey of continual reinvention, highlighting how creativity flourishes at every stage of life, especially beyond the age of 40. The conversation delves into themes of overcoming societal expectations, building inner and outer confidence, and finding empowerment through personal style, beauty rituals, and creative experimentation. Cat discusses launching her beauty and lifestyle brand, Omen, the viral “Higher Self Therapy” series on Instagram, and the importance of reframing midlife as a time of transformation and vibrancy. The episode also explores personal challenges Kat faced—such as stage fright, people-pleasing, and post-divorce healing—and how creativity and self-love underpin resilience. Listeners are encouraged to embrace play, reimagine what’s possible at every age, and nurture their creative spark to unlock personal and collective growth. Find Cat on Instagram, check out her skincare brand Omen, and listen to her music, and watch her videos!

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• Ep. 19: Style, confidence, and redefining beauty with Angel Edme

  This week on Closet Philosophy, Jennine and Kristen sit down with fashion creator Angel Edme. Her bold style and fearless approach to self-expression embody what it means to use style as self-expression. Angel Edme is a fashion, beauty, and lifestyle creator based in New York—known for her razor-sharp style, unfiltered honesty, and a deep passion for helping people show up as their boldest, truest selves. She started behind the camera as a storyteller, and now she’s in front of it—empowering real people to reclaim their confidence through fashion, skincare, and creative self-expression. Angel doesn’t just serve looks—she sparks transformation. Whether she’s sharing outfit inspiration, speaking truth on identity and visibility, or demystifying beauty standards, Angel brings style, and substance to everything she does. Get ready for a conversation on personal power, redefining beauty, and why what you wear is never just about clothes. Highlights include: How growing up shaped her approach to style. Why “styling principles” should be tools, not rules. Her process for mindful shopping and choosing pieces with versatility. The rise of African designers bringing bold creativity and inclusivity. Practical advice for anyone struggling with body image and confidence. Angel reminds us that the most stylish thing you can wear is self-love—and that what you wear is never just about clothes. 👉 Follow Angel on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, and check out her Substack Stuff I Wouldn’t Gatekeep for her latest fashion, travel, and beauty insights.

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• Ep. 18: Revealing yourself through style, story, and self-trust with model and author Alicia Johnson

  in this inspiring conversation, we talk with Alicia Johnson—global marketing strategist, Ford model, and author of Buried Treasure: A Field Guide to the Life-Changing Magic of Revealing Yourself. Alicia shares how she re-entered the modeling world in her 60s through a twist of serendipity, the challenges and biases that still exist for older plus-size women in fashion, and how personal style can be a radical act of self-acceptance. We explore the deeper meaning of authenticity, why self-trust is the foundation of showing up fully, and how movement—not dieting—can be a key to reclaiming joy. Alicia also offers practical tools for reconnecting with your body, noticing where emotions live physically, and using clothing to express your most powerful self. Other highlights include: The magical story of Alicia’s unexpected contract with Ford Models The ongoing cultural double standard for older women’s bodies How hope differs from optimism (and why it matters) Practical style advice from tailoring to designer investment pieces Why authenticity is an active, ongoing practice—not a buzzword If you’ve ever wondered how personal style intersects with healing, agency, and joy, this episode will leave you feeling empowered to reveal yourself—inside and out. Find Alicia online: alicialjohnson.com | Instagram & Substack: @alicialjohnson

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