Send us a textEver find yourself thinking, “Isn’t midlife supposed to be more fun?” You’re not alone, and that’s exactly why today’s episode, “How You Reclaim Pleasure in Midlife,” is such an important listen. I’m joined by the fabulous “pleasure queen,” Natty Frasca, a coach for midlife women dedicated to helping us rekindle joy, purpose, and playfulness as we navigate this pivotal chapter of life.In this conversation, Natty and I break down what it really means to reclaim pleasure in midlife. We talk about why pleasure isn’t selfish or frivolous but absolutely essential. You’ll learn why most of us have lost touch with what lights us up, how “mom guilt” and old scripts hold us back, and most importantly, how small acts of joy can become life-changing.If you’re ready to stop living on autopilot, reconnect with your desires, and show up as the most vibrant version of yourself (for you and everyone you love), this episode will give you the practical tools and encouragement to start reclaiming your pleasure right now. What You'll Learn:Why pleasure is a vital part of midlife wellness, not a selfish indulgence Understand how prioritizing your own joy has a positive impact on everyone around you.Simple ways to start reclaiming pleasure even when guilt shows up Learn Natty’s “compounding pleasure” technique and start with tiny, guilt-free steps.Reconnect with your true desires and sense of aliveness Discover why so many women forget what they want, and how to gently rediscover it.Model resilience and joy for your children and community See how your transformation can inspire the next generation to embrace pleasure and self-love.Concrete first steps for your own midlife pleasure journey Try Natty’s “desire ritual,” get micro-action ideas, and learn how to find the right circle of support.Call to Action:Ready to reclaim your pleasure in midlife?Learn more and access resources: https://createthebestme.com/ep120Related Episodes:🎧 Listen to this episode: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1949561/episodes/17204469 Connect with Natty Frasca: Website: https://thefemininerebellion.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefemininerebellionFree resource from Natty: https://thefemininerebellion.com/pleasure Have a story to share or questions about pleasure in midlife? Reach out to Natty or jump onto her email list for weekly inspiration! #Midlife #Pleasure #WomenEmpowerment #SelfCare #HowYouReclaimPleasureInMidlife #CreateTheBestMe #FeminineRebellion #MidlifeTransformation #SelfDiscov📨 Newsletter: https://createthebestme.com/newsletter/ 👀 Connect With Me: Website: https://createthebestme.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/createthebestme Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carmenhecox/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@carmenhecoxYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@createthebestme LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carmen-hecox 📽️ Video Request: https://forms.office.com/r/LvLV1AsBfv
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37:23
Menopause Myths Busted: The Truth About Hormones
Send us a textAre you still believing menopause means the end of vibrancy or that hormone therapy is just too risky? In "Menopause Myths Busted: The Truth About Hormones," I sit down with renowned hormone expert Dr. Prudence Hall, who has over 40 years of experience, to unravel everything you thought you knew about menopause, hormones, and aging.This episode digs deep into menopause myths, the truth about hormone therapy, and why your best years are far from behind you. Dr. Hall reveals what most doctors get wrong about menopause (hint: they’re barely taught about it in med school!), the vast difference between bioidentical and synthetic hormones, and why one-size-fits-all medicine leaves too many of us suffering needlessly. We discuss the life-changing benefits of hormone optimization—from hot flash relief to preventing heart disease, boosting brainpower, restoring libido, and even safeguarding bone health. If you’ve ever felt dismissed, worried about cancer risks, or convinced you’re "too old" to feel great again, this is the episode that could reset your entire approach to wellness!What You'll Learn:Why most doctors are undertrained in menopause—and how this impacts your care.The real difference between bioidentical and synthetic hormones, and what’s actually safest for you.How estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone work together to shape your health, mind, mood, and longevity.What to expect from individualized hormone therapy at any age (even if you’re decades past menopause!).The truth about hormones and cancer risk—plus the latest findings on preventing chronic illnesses during menopause. Call to Action: Ready to rewrite the story of your health? Start here: Learn more & download Dr. Hall’s free book “Radiant Again and Forever”: https://thehallcenter.com📕 Resources: https://createthebestme.com/ep119Learn more & download Dr. Hall’s free book “Radiant Again and Forever”: https://thehallcenter.com Disclaimer: The information provided in this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for guidance on your own health and treatment. The views expressed by guests are their own.#menopause #MenopauseMyths #hormonehealth #bioidenticalhormones #DrPrudenceHall #TheHallCenter #functionalmedicine #hormonetherapy #womenswellness #perimenopause #radiantagain #CreateTheBestMe📨 Newsletter: https://createthebestme.com/newsletter/ 👀 Connect With Me: Website: https://createthebestme.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/createthebestme Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carmenhecox/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@carmenhecoxYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@createthebestme LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carmen-hecox 📽️ Video Request: https://forms.office.com/r/LvLV1AsBfv
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53:09
The Hidden Effects of Unresolved Sexual Trauma
Send us a textThe Hidden Effects of Unresolved Sexual Trauma is something most people hope never to face, yet countless survivors find that trauma they thought was buried resurfaces in unexpected, and often disruptive, ways. In this episode, I sit down with somatic psychotherapist and author Erika Shershun, who specializes in helping survivors understand and heal from the hidden effects of unresolved sexual trauma. Drawing not only from her clinical expertise but also her own personal healing journey, Erika reveals why these experiences linger and how real, lasting transformation is possible. From mysterious physical symptoms to emotional triggers that appear years later, Erika and I dive deep into just how powerfully the body and mind store trauma. We discuss why survivors sometimes “forget” what happened, how triggers can unlock painful memories, and why shame often keeps people silent for decades. With empathy and hope, Erika shares actionable steps for beginning the healing process, whether you’re ready to talk to a therapist or need a gentle way to start. If you or someone you love has experienced sexual trauma, understanding the hidden effects of unresolved sexual trauma is a vital first step toward healing. What You’ll Learn:Why old wounds pop up when you least expect them, and what “unresolved” really meansHow sexual trauma is stored in the body, not just the mind, and why memories can come flooding back years laterThe ways unresolved trauma can manifest: PTSD, hyperarousal, digestive issues, people-pleasing, anger, and moreThe impact of shame and secrecy, and why survivors often freeze or struggle to speak upPractical steps to start healing safely, including grounding exercises, using workbooks, and finding a trauma-informed therapist Call to Action: Ready to learn more and start your healing journey?Download a free chapter of Erika’s workbook “Healing Sexual Trauma” and her digital guide, “The Many Ways to Ground”: https://healingsexualtrauma.comDive deeper into the subject with the full episode and resources: https://createthebestme.com/ep118Work with Erika Shershun https://erikashershuntherapy.com/ ⚖️ Disclaimer: This episode discusses sensitive topics, including sexual trauma. The information shared in this episode is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical or mental health advice. Please seek support from a qualified professional if you need help or are experiencing a crisis. The views expressed by guests are their own. #TheHiddenEffectsofUnresolvedSexualTrauma #SexualTrauma #TraumaHealing #PTSDRecovery #SomaticTherapy #MentalHealth #HealingJourney📨 Newsletter: https://createthebestme.com/newsletter/ 👀 Connect With Me: Website: https://createthebestme.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/createthebestme Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carmenhecox/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@carmenhecoxYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@createthebestme LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carmen-hecox 📽️ Video Request: https://forms.office.com/r/LvLV1AsBfv
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41:24
Not Stuck—Growing: Find YOUR Midlife Purpose
Send us a textAre you feeling lost in midlife, wondering, “Now what?” In “Not Stuck—Growing: Find YOUR Midlife Purpose,” I explore what happens when old milestones no longer bring fulfillment and why that sense of restlessness isn’t failure; it’s a powerful call to grow. If you’ve ever felt like you’re stuck after 50, I want to show you how this can be the start of your most meaningful chapter yet. In “Not Stuck—Growing: Find YOUR Midlife Purpose,” I share the real reason so many of us hit a wall after years of living up to the expectations of family and career. You’ll discover the simple, step-by-step journaling method that helped me, and can help you reveal your “why,” reconnect with what sparks your joy, and uncover hidden gifts you may have set aside. Plus, I offer encouragement for anyone navigating menopause, loneliness, or a loss of identity, and practical inspiration for making small, sustainable changes every day. What You’ll Learn:Why feeling “stuck” is really an invitation to grow beyond old rolesHow to journal your way to clarity on your values, strengths, and passionsThe importance of uncovering lifelong patterns through childhood memories and feedback from othersHow negative self-talk keeps you from your best self, and how to break the cycleEasy daily shifts that move you closer to your midlife purpose and joy Call to Action: If this resonated, please LIKE, COMMENT, and SUBSCRIBE!Tell me below: what’s one small change you’re making today as you find your midlife purpose?📕 Resources: https://createthebestme.com/ep115 Related Episodes:🎧 Listen to these episodes: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1949561/episodes/17119307 https://www.buzzsprout.com/1949561/episodes/17040186 #MidlifePurpose #NotStuckGrowing #CreateTheBestMe #WomenOver50 #FindYourWhy #PersonalGrowth #MidlifeTransformation #RediscoverYourself #notstuckgrowing #FindYourMidlifePurpose📨 Newsletter: https://createthebestme.com/newsletter/ 👀 Connect With Me: Website: https://createthebestme.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/createthebestme Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carmenhecox/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@carmenhecoxYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@createthebestme LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carmen-hecox 📽️ Video Request: https://forms.office.com/r/LvLV1AsBfv
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9:35
Is Your Dream Home Making You Sick?
Send us a textIn this episode, I dive into a topic we rarely talk about but need to—hidden mold and mycotoxins in our homes—with special guest Seth Jones. Once a globe-trotting DJ and music producer, Seth’s own encounter with building-related illness led him to found Superstratum and dedicate his life to protecting people from the invisible (and often misunderstood) dangers lurking in “perfect” homes.Together, we bust the myth that only old, musty houses have mold problems. Seth reveals why new builds could be the most toxic of all, how airtight construction traps moisture and poisons inside, and what symptoms to look out for if you suspect your environment is making you sick. We discuss the science of mycotoxins—what they do in your body, why most doctors miss the warning signs, and how you can actually get rid of them from your space.If you or someone you love has persistent gut issues, brain fog, skin flare-ups, or mysterious chronic fatigue, this episode is a must-listen. It’s not just about fixing your living space—it’s about reclaiming your health and peace of mind.What You’ll Learn:Is Your Dream Home Actually Dangerous? Why new, perfectly built homes are often trapped with toxic air and moisture—and what the construction industry gets wrong about mold.The Hidden Threat of Mycotoxins How these invisible chemical weapons from mold can trigger gut issues, autoimmune disorders, brain fog, and more, even after the visible mold is gone.Why Testing for Mold (and Mycotoxins) Isn’t So Simple The limitations of standard mold tests, what really needs to be done to make a home safe, and why “remediation” may not mean you’re in the clear.A Step-by-Step Detox Protocol You Can Do Yourself Seth’s proven system for reclaiming your space, from deep cleaning to gas treatments to protective coatings—all safe for your family and pets.The Emotional Toll of Building-Related Illness The confusion, anxiety, and even relationship turmoil that comes from invisible illness—and how to trust your body when others doubt your experience.Call to Action: Ready to learn if your dream home is harming your health—and what you can do about it? Seth and his team are ready to help you detoxify your home and take back your well-being. For DIY guidance, professional services, or to get your questions answered, reach out!📕 Resources: https://createthebestme.com/ep116https://superstratumlabs.com/Be sure to use the discount code CREATETHEBESTME10 to receive 10% off your order. #IsYourDreamHomeMakingYouSick #MoldAwareness #ToxicHomes #Mycotoxins #HealthyHome #BuildingHealth #ChronicIllness #SethJones #SuperStratum #CreateTheBestMe📨 Newsletter: https://createthebestme.com/newsletter/ 👀 Connect With Me: Website: https://createthebestme.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/createthebestme Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carmenhecox/ TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@carmenhecoxYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@createthebestme LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carmen-hecox 📽️ Video Request: https://forms.office.com/r/LvLV1AsBfv
We're an age-positive podcast that celebrates the richness of midlife and beyond. Hosted by Carmen Hecox, a seasoned transformational coach, our platform provides an empowering outlook on these transformative years. With a keen focus on perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause, Carmen brings together thought leaders, authors, artists, and entrepreneurs for candid conversations that inspire and motivate. Each episode is packed with expert insights and practical advice to help you navigate life's challenges and seize opportunities for growth, wellness, and fulfillment. From career transitions and personal development to health, beauty, and relationships, "Create The Best Me" is your guide to thriving in midlife. Tune in and transform your journey into your most exhilarating adventure yet.
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