In this episode, Jennifer talks with Nicole Lange, LicAc, MAOM, a thought leader and fierce advocate addressing what she sees as a PTSD epidemic in fertility care. As founder of Life Healing Life in Minneapolis, MN, Nicole has pioneered a harm-prevention approach that protects patients from the treatment-induced trauma affecting nearly 50% of people in fertility treatment.

Since 2006, Nicole has revolutionized fertility care through her evidence-based practice that integrates reproductive science with trauma-informed care, traditional Chinese medicine, and nervous system regulation. She maintains the critical 25/75 ratio: 25% addressing reproductive anatomy, 75% supporting whole-person wellness—the factors determining 80% of outcomes.

Key topics discussed:

• Nicole’s wellness journey: navigating trauma and PTSD with western medicine and ultimately finding whole body health and healing with traditional Chinese medicine and a patient-centered model.
• Is there a PTSD epidemic in fertility care? 
• Understanding trauma; how it presents and how people experience it
• Iatrogenic harm or trauma that occurs when treatment is not patient centered addressing the mind-body connection
• Salutogenesis and the creation of health
• Finding meaning in your journey and making it more manageable and tolerable, and tools to do so
• Components of a patient-centered fertility journey include listening and learning
• “Baby Blinders”: when you’re doing all the things to get pregnant, without thinking about you, holistically
• Nicole’s patient-centered fertility work, including addressing trauma

Connect with Nicole:

• Programs and resources at lifehealinglife.com
• Fertility freebies, online courses and content (blog, YouTube, etc.) at lifehealinglife.com/online-fertility-education

Connect with Jennifer:

• Schedule a free Fertility Support Session
• Follow her on Instagram for more tips and insights: @jennredmondinhc

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with women in your life who can benefit from this information.

Disclaimer: The Cycles and Seasons podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional regarding any symptoms or medical problems you are experiencing.

In this episode, Jennifer talks with Marina Kay, an Executive Coach and Breathwork Facilitator focusing on stress and burnout prevention in high achievers and entrepreneurs. Her passion is helping women affected by chronic stress feel calm, confident and resilient. She uses full spectrum breathwork protocols, from functional to somatic, helping her clients relax, restore and recharge the body.

Marina is the founder of Women Who Breathe, an online women’s community with live virtual breathwork sessions, courses on nervous system and hormonal health, and quarterly health challenges for women in high stress careers. 

 Key topics discussed:

• Marina's evolution from stress, burnout and hormone imbalance to embracing safety, health and wellness through breathwork and stress management.
• Understanding cortisol and how it functions in the body, and what happens when we have too little or too much. 
• Understanding your cortisol through self reflection and intuition and/or testing cortisol.
• Circadian rhythm, your sleep/wake cycle and hormone production. 
• How breathwork helps tame hormone chaos and promote calm.
• Practical breathwork techniques.

Connect with Marina:

• WomenWhoBreathe.com
• Instagram: WomenWhoBreathe
• YouTube
• InsightTimer

 Connect with Jennifer

• Schedule a free Fertility or Perimenopause Support Session
• Follow Jennifer on Instagram for more tips and insights: @jennredmondinhc
• Join her email list for exclusive tips, free resources and honest conversations about what it really takes to feel good in your body—through perimenopause, fertility challenges, and everything in between. Plus, you’ll be the first to know about upcoming talks, programs and ways to connect.

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with women in your life who can benefit from this information.

Disclaimer: The Cycles and Seasons podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional regarding any symptoms or medical problems you are experiencing.

 Episode 11: Sleep Wisdom for Women

In this episode Jennifer talks with Jen Patenaude, the founder of Jennifer Eve Wellness. With a passion for guiding entrepreneurs and busy executives to their best selves, she specializes in transforming sleep from a mere afterthought to the cornerstone of peak performance and wellness. 

• Key topics discussed: 
• Root causes of poor sleep 
• Sleep hygiene and sleep environment 
• Synching up your body’s rhythm with nature’s rhythm 
• Melatonin orchestrates the sleep process 
• Tips for restorative sleep 
• Sleep and fertility, perimenopause and hormone health 

Resources Mentioned: 

• Connect with Jen Patenaude: Website; Instagram; LinkedIn 
• Free Sleep Quiz 

Connect with Jennifer Redmond: 

• Schedule a free Fertility or Perimenopause Support Session
• Follow her on Instagram for more tips and insights: @jennredmondinhc

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with women in your life who can benefit from this information.
 
Disclaimer: The Cycles and Seasons podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional regarding any symptoms or medical problems you are experiencing.
 

Episode 10: PCOS and Fertility

In this episode, Jennifer talks about PCOS (polycystic ovarian syndrome) with Dr. Aaron Styer. Dr. Styer is a reproductive endocrinologist and the co-founding partner and co-medical director of CCRM Fertility Boston. 

One in 10 women have PCOS in some form: it’s one of the most common endocrine disorders. This episode provides wide ranging information on how PCOS may be diagnosed and treated and how to best manage your fertility if you’re trying to conceive with PCOS.

Key topics discussed:

• What PCOS is, and its varied symptoms
• Testing and treatment for PCOS
• The role of nutrition and lifestyle in managing PCOS
• Your menstrual cycle is a vital sign and a good indicator of your health
• PCOS and pregnancy 
• The use of GLP agonists (weight loss drugs) for PCOS and fertility

Resources mentioned:

·       Dr. Aaron Styer, CCRM Fertility Boston 

Connect with Jennifer:

• Follow Jennifer on Instagram for more tips and insights: @jennredmondinhc

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with women in your life who can benefit from this information.

Disclaimer: The Cycles and Seasons podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional regarding any symptoms or medical problems you are experiencing. 

Episode 9: Perimenopause after Infertility

In this episode, Jennifer talks about how the emotional and physical aspects of perimenopause can be difficult to navigate after a fertility journey, and she offers strategies to help support you.

Key topics discussed:

• Perimenopause, which signals nearing the end of your reproductive years, can trigger past emotions tied to infertility, including loss
• The role of self-compassion and self-care
• Perimenopause symptoms can bring back memories or mirror changes you experienced when trying to conceive
• Strategies to support you

This episode provides the perspective that perimenopause after infertility can be challenging, but information and strategies will help you more easily manage this transition.

Resources Mentioned:

·       Schedule your free Perimenopause Support Session

Connect with Jennifer:

• Follow Jennifer on Instagram for more tips and insights: @jennredmondinhc

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with women in your life who can benefit from this information.

Disclaimer: The Cycles and Seasons podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional regarding any symptoms or medical problems you are experiencing.

Episode 8: Acupuncture for Fertility

In this episode, Jennifer talks with Erin Walker, a Licensed Acupuncturist who specializes in fertility and perinatal care. Erin is the owner of Boston Integrated Health in Boston, MA,

Key topics discussed:

• Erin’s journey to becoming an acupuncturist who specializes in fertility
• All the ways acupuncture can support your whole body, including your menstrual cycle and fertility
• The philosophy behind acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine
• What happens in an acupuncture session
•  The benefit of working with a fertility acupuncturist when you’re trying to conceive naturally or with fertility treatment – and what treatment might look like
• What the research does – and doesn’t – say regarding acupuncture and fertility
• The Yin and Yang of your menstrual cycle
• What Arvigo Mayan Abdominal Massage is, and how it can benefit your fertility and encourage connection to your body

This episode provides the perspective that taking a whole-body approach to fertility, which acupuncture supports, can enhance fertility and your overall health and wellbeing.

Resources Mentioned:

• Erin Walker, Licensed Acupuncturist: BostonIntegrativeHealth.com 
• AllPaths Family Building Professional Resource List
• Find a Practitioner: ABORM (The Acupuncture and TCM Board of Reproductive Medicine)

Connect with Jennifer:

• Schedule a free Fertility Support Session
• Follow her on Instagram for more tips and insights: @jennredmondinhc

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with women in your life who can benefit from this information.

Disclaimer: The Cycles and Seasons podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional regarding any symptoms or medical problems you are experiencing.

Episode 7: Nutrition in Perimenopause

In this episode, Jennifer talks about how the right nutrition can not only boost hormone health and improve overall well being, it can help manage some symptoms related to perimenopause including hot flashes, weight gain, poor sleep, achy joints and erratic energy. 

Key topics discussed:

•  Bio individuality: There’s no one right way to eat for everyone.
•  The 14-Day Reset
•  The Perimenopause Plate: Protein, veggies, healthy fat
•  Daily and weekly nutrition for perimenopause
•  Meal planning and prep
•  The benefits of fueling and nourishing your body in perimenopause

This episode provides the perspective that nutrition in all its forms will support you in this season and can help ease the symptoms of perimenopause

Resources Mentioned:

• 14-Day Reset Waitlist

Connect with Jennifer:

• Schedule a free Perimenopause Support Session
• Follow her on Instagram for more tips and insights: @jennredmondinhc

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with women in your life who can benefit from this information.

Disclaimer: The Cycles and Seasons podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional regarding any symptoms or medical problems you are experiencing.

Episode 6: Reflections and Intentions

As 2024 draws to a close, on this episode we’ll take some time to reflect on the year you’ve lived and take some time to envision the one you’re about to create.

Whether you're navigating fertility challenges or the ups and downs of perimenopause, this conversation offers you tools, insights and inspiration for a meaningful transition into 2025.

Key topics discussed:

• Reflecting on 2024 and where you are today
• Setting intentions for 2025
• A fertility client’s reflections for 2024
• Nutrition tips for energy and hormonal health
• 4-7-8 breath work for grounding
• The importance of support for fertility and perimenopause

This episode provides the perspective that you can approach the New Year feeling empowered and more resilient regardless of the season you’re in.

I'm wishing you so much love and good health in 2025!

Resources Mentioned:

• Journal Prompts
  • What went well for you this year?
  • What challenged you, and how did you grow through it?
  • What moments of joy, connection, or resilience stood out?
  • Fertility: Where are you today in your fertility journey?
  • Perimenopause: This phase is not an ending but a transition into a new      chapter. What does that mean for you?

Connect with Jennifer:

• Schedule a free Fertility or Perimenopause Support Session
• Follow Jennifer on Instagram for more tips and insights, or DM her your questions: @jennredmondinhc

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with women in your life who can benefit from this information.

Disclaimer: The Cycles and Seasons podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional regarding any symptoms or medical problems you are experiencing.

Episode 5: Fertility and the Holidays

In this episode, Jennifer talks with Kate Weldon LeBlanc, the executive director of All Paths Family Building about managing the holidays when you're on a family building journey. Kate leads the strategic vision of the organization and works collectively with the staff, Board of Directors and professional members to grow the services of AllPaths Family Building. Kate has a strong personal and professional commitment to the AllPaths mission.

Key topics discussed:

• Kate’s personal connection to the AllPaths mission
• Winter holidays can amplify hard feelings related to family building
• Tips for coping with the holidays
• All Paths support services, including peer-led support groups
• All Paths advocacy work and policies that may be forthcoming regarding fertility and family building with the incoming administration

This episode provides the perspective that self-care isn’t selfish and if you’re on a family building journey, you need to “find your people”.

Resources Mentioned:

• AllPaths Family Building
• AllPaths Family Building Support Groups

Connect with Jennifer:

• Schedule a free Fertility Support Session
• Follow her on Instagram for more tips and insights: @jennredmondinhc

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with women in your life who can benefit from this information.

Disclaimer: The Cycles and Seasons podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional regarding any symptoms or medical problems you are experiencing.

Episode 4: Fertility Yoga

In this episode, Jennifer talks with Kerry Hinds, the owner and founder of Fertile Body Yoga, a virtual yoga studio that is dedicated to supporting women navigating their fertility journey - whatever it may look like.

Key topics discussed:

• Kerry’s fertility journey: IUI and IVF in Germany, failed fertility treatment, miscarriage and loss, taking a pause, and 2 children conceived without fertility treatment
• What fertility yoga is, and how it supports fertility
• How fertility yoga goes beyond movement to support you physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually
• Who can benefit from fertility yoga and why it is safe and nurturing when you’re trying to conceive with or without fertility treatment
• The science behind fertility yoga
• Tips for modifying yoga poses when you’re trying to conceive
• The ripple effect of fertility yoga

Resources Mentioned:

• Research on Stress and Fertility and How Yoga Can Help
• Free Fertility Yoga Class
• Free 2WW Meditation

Connect with Jennifer:

• Schedule a free Fertility Support Session
• Follow her on Instagram for more tips and insights: @jennredmondinhc

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with women in your life who can benefit from this information.

Disclaimer:The Cycles and Seasons podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional regarding any symptoms or medical problems you are experiencing.

Episode 3: Menopause 101

In this episode, Jennifer explains what exactly is going on in our bodies during perimenopause and menopause. She wants to empower you to understand the signs and symptoms, and so you can support your hormonal health.

Key topics discussed:

• Hormonal fluctuations and changes are natural, but nobody has ever talked to us about it
• Perimenopause is a very natural transition leading to menopause
• Menopause is when you haven’t had a period for 1 year
• Changes during your menstrual cycle’s luteal phase and follicular phase in perimenopause and related symptoms
• Menopause may be a relief, a time of reflection, a time of mourning or a combination of all
• My perimenopause story: the elephant on my chest
• 34 symptoms associated with perimenopause
• Nutrition, in all its forms, can impact and improve hormone health and help manage some perimenopause symptoms

This episode provides the perspective that women need to be informed to be empowered to better support themselves in this season of life.

Resources Mentioned:

• 34 Symptoms of Perimenopause at jennredmond.com/symptoms

Connect with Jennifer:

• Follow her on Instagram for more tips and insights (@jennredmondinhc)

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with women in your life who can benefit from this information.

Disclaimer: The Cycles and Seasons podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional regarding any symptoms or medical problems you are experiencing.

In this episode, Jennifer shares her top tips for eating to support your fertility. 

While there is no one way to eat that is right for everyone, there are some overarching principles, with science to back them up, about the role of nutrition in a fertility journey. She shares information on how the foods you are eating may be supportive or unsupportive to your fertility and health goals, and what foods to consider incorporating into your diet.

Key topics discussed:

• Eat real, whole foods: Vegetables and fruits, whole grains, nuts, seeds, wild fish, chicken.
• Eat the rainbow: Avoid processed foods.
• Choose organic: What organic means for produce, meats and dairy products. Clean 15 and Dirty Dozen lists when choosing when to eat organic.
• Eat healthy sources of protein: Can reduce the risk of infertility including ovulatory infertility. Wild fish, eggs, nuts, seeds, beans, legumes. Protein from dairy.
• Evaluate gluten: Found in wheat, rye and barley; most bread, pasta, crackers, cookies, desserts. Possible link between gluten sensitivity and infertility. My gluten story.
• Pay attention to carbs: All carbs are not created equal. Choose slow carbs over fast carbs.
• Break up with sugar: Inflammatory, causes inconsistent energy, health consequences, addictive. Can impact fertility.
• Mediterranean diet is a good model for fertility: Wild caught fish, real whole foods, veggies, fruits, olive oil, beans legumes, whole grains. High in omega 3 fatty acids.

This episode provides the perspective that you don’t need to make these changes all at once. Start with one change and take actionable, incremental steps to support your fertility with nutrition.

Resources Mentioned:

• Clean 15 and Dirty Dozen, at ewg.org or on the EWG app

Connect with Jennifer:
Follow her on Instagram for more tips and insights (@jennredmondinhc). Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with women who can use a holistic perspective to support their fertility.

Disclaimer: The Cycles and Seasons podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional regarding any symptoms or medical problems you are experiencing.

Episode 19: Managing stress and building resilience in mid-life

In this episode, Jennifer talks with Rachel Posner, C-IAYT, E-RYT, a yoga therapist and mindfulness coach helping people reduce stress, build resilience and thrive. Her work is informed by the intersection of mindfulness, neuroscience and psychology and her teachings integrate best practices for the mind, body and brain. Rachel has been in the wellness field for 24 years and is driven by a deep desire to help people feel calm, connected and engaged in their lives. Rachel offers individual yoga therapy sessions, mindfulness courses, yoga memberships and retreats.

Key topics discussed:

• Nervous system 101 and getting to know your nervous system
• How we respond in fight, flight and freeze and how to adapt
• Are you really stressed out, or are you responding to stressors?
• Reframing resilience
• Mindfulness is the most effective tool for managing your nervous system
• Breathwork and movement 
• Perimenopause and stress
• The importance of self-compassion
• Deeping your connection with your body, including with yoga therapy

Connect with Rachel:

• Rachelposner.com
• Free nervous system regulation practice
• Free 7-day membership trial

Connect with Jennifer:

• Schedule a free Perimenopause Support Session
• Follow her on Instagram for more tips and insights: @jennredmondinhc

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with women in your life who can benefit from this information.

Disclaimer: The Cycles and Seasons podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional regarding any symptoms or medical problems you are experiencing.

In this introductory episode of Cycles and Seasons: From Fertility to Menopause, host Jennifer Redmond, an integrative nutrition coach and hormone health educator with decades of expertise, shares her personal and professional journey that led her to her career supporting women of all ages and in all seasons of life.

Jennifer also provides an overview on how a whole-body approach to hormone health can support you, whether you’re navigating fertility, perimenopause or menopause, and why good nutrition is often the best way to start.

Tune in for insights and tips on how you can start improving your hormone health today, boost fertility and address symptoms associated with perimenopause and menopause.

Cycles and Seasons Podcast Trailer

Episode 18: Strength and Fitness in Perimenopause and Menopause

In this episode, Jennifer talks with Dr. Maria Luque, an energetic and accomplished fitness and menopause expert, former health science professor, and United States Air Force veteran. With a PhD and MS in Health Sciences and over two decades of fitness experience, she combines academic expertise with practical insights. 

Dr. Luque is certified as a Certified Health Education Specialist, ACE Certified Personal Trainer, ACE Fitness Nutrition Specialist, and NASM Women’s Fitness Specialist. Passionate about helping women in midlife re-imagine exercise, body image, and well-being, she’s the founder of Fitness in Menopause, a company dedicated to helping women be healthier, stronger, saner, and more open to fun and adventure. 

 Key topics discussed:

• Body image and mindset
• You’re not doing things wrong – you need to do things differently
• Setting SMART, non-weight related goals
• Movement snacking and habit snacking
• Strength training
• Weighted vests
• Core strength and exercises
• Menopause is not a linear journey
• Reframing the narrative to a non-weight-centric approach

 Connect with Dr. Maria Luque:

• www.FitnessInMenopause.com
• www.DrMariaLuque.com
• Instagram: @drmarialuque
• LinkedIn: Maria Luque, PhD

Connect with Jennifer:

• Schedule a free Perimenopause Support Session
• Follow her on Instagram for more tips and insights: @jennredmondinhc

 Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with women in your life who can benefit from this information.

 Disclaimer: The Cycles and Seasons podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional regarding any symptoms or medical problems you are experiencing.

In this episode, Jennifer talks with Alyssa Rose. Alyssa walks with those navigating life's  most profound transitions. As a Grief Tender and Death Doula in Portland Oregon, she bridges ancient ritual practices with modern somatic therapies to create sacred spaces for those facing loss, death and deep change.

Drawing from her extensive work with hundreds of families and communities, Alyssa’s unique approach to grief care honors the somatic, emotional and spiritual dimensions of the liminal and alchemical process of grieving.

Alyssa is passionate about creating a grief literate culture that is resilient and compassionate enough to hold us through life’s challenges and uncertainties.  It is here that we practice belonging and transform a culture sick with loneliness into one ripe with connection. 

Key topics discussed:

• The many ways that grief shows up in a fertility journey
• The 5 gates of grief
• When grief coincides with joy
• Making the invisible visible
• The power of rituals, practices or grief connection to help mark your grief
• Ask for what you want from others, such as, “Do you need to be helped, heard or hugged?”
• Grief is an ongoing expression of our love, and is not linear
• What to do when grief feels too hard
• Navigating grief as partners
• Practical tips for handling grief when it catches you off guard

Resources Mentioned:

• Frances Weller

Connect with Alyssa:

• www.alyssarosehealingarts.com 
• alyssarosehealingarts@gmail.com
• Instagram: @alyssarosehealing
• Alyssa’s Retreats/Rituals 

Connect with Jennifer:

• Schedule a free Fertility Support Session
• Follow her on Instagram for more tips and insights: @jennredmondinhc

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with women in your life who can benefit from this information.

Disclaimer: The Cycles and Seasons podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional regarding any symptoms or medical problems you are experiencing.

In this episode, Jennifer talks with Kendra Quincy Knauf. Kendra is a licensed mental health counselor with a specialization in perinatal mental health, particularly supporting people dealing with fertility challenges, pregnancy after loss, and postpartum identity.  She has worked in multiple settings, particularly in the community mental health space with a diverse group of clients over the past ten years.  Currently she has a telehealth private practice.  

Kendra spent years undergoing fertility treatments and is a NICU mom.  Kendra lives in the metro-Boston area with her family, and volunteers with her town government, undergraduate alumni organization, and is a dog foster parent.  Kendra is an avid reader, a fiber artist, dog mom, and enjoys spending time outdoors.  She is often spotted at the local library.  Kendra received her bachelor's degree in history from Dartmouth College and holds a Master of Education from University of Pennsylvania, and a Master of Counseling from University of Massachusetts Boston.  

Kendra is also a beloved former client of Jennifer’s. 

Key points discussed: 

• 1 in 6 struggle with infertility, and rates of anxiety and depression are higher in those men and women 
• Everybody’s fertility journey is unique, and feeling isolated is a common thread in those journeys 
• Kendra’s fertility journey 
• Support is available and how to find reliable and trusted sources of information 
• The benefits of group support 
• The importance of self-advocating for your care, assembling a team and becoming a partner in your care 
• Practical ways to support your mental health day-to-day 
• How to find a therapist or mental health provider who is a good fit for you

  Resources Mentioned: 

• AllPaths Family Building
• Resolve: The National Infertility Association 
• Spirit Babies book 
• Postpartum Support International 
• Psychology Today therapist search 

Connect with Kendra: 

• Kendraknauf.com 
• info@kendraknauf.com 
• Instagram: @kendra.knauf.lmhc 

Connect with Jennifer: 

• Schedule a free fertility Support Session

In this episode, Jennifer talks with Louise Neil, B.Sc, PCC, a Women’s Career Empowerment Strategist and founder of Menomentum, a movement dedicated to transforming how we experience and support menopause in the workplace. Louise helps midlife women navigate career pivots, reclaim confidence and align their work with who they are now, not who they were 10 years ago. 

Through Menomentum, she partners with organizations to break the silence around menopause and build inclusive, supportive environments where women can thrive professionally—even through hormonal upheaval. She also offers 1:1 menopause doula support for women who are struggling with perimenopause and menopause, providing compassionate guidance, education and space to be seen and heard. 

Louise is the founder of Pivoting Point Career Solutions, and co-host of The Empowered and Embodied Show podcast. Whether she’s speaking to corporate leaders or supporting a woman privately in transition, Louise brings empathy, honesty and a deep belief that midlife isn’t the end—it’s the power pivot. 

Key points discussed: 

• 1 in 10 women are leaving their jobs due to effects of perimenopause. 
• 78% of women feel that perimenopause symptoms impact their performance at work. 
• The intersection of perimenopause-related physical and emotional changes that impact women at work. 
• Oprah and other famous women are talking about perimenopause, but how do you take what they’re saying and make it actionable? 
• How can we empower and educate ourselves with information and ask for what we need in the workplace (and from our healthcare providers)? 
• How can we educate employers to become menopause-friendly (which helps their bottom line)? 
• Initiatives and accommodations that offer menopause support in the workplace. 
• Understanding and managing brain fog; helping your body recalibrate from hormone changes. 

Resources Mentioned: 

•  The Menopause Society 
• The Menopause Foundation of Canada 

Connect with Louise: 

• LinkedIn 
• Menomentum.org 
• Empowered and Embodied Show 

Connect with Jennifer: 

• Schedule a free Perimenopause Support Session

 In this episode, Jennifer talks with Dr. Camilla Moore, a Diplomate of the American College of Lifestyle Medicine and certified instructor of Harvard Medical School's SMART program. She offers evidence-based solutions through self-guided online courses, on-demand programs and personalized one-on-one coaching. Her approach helps people identify and address hidden stress triggers that often go unnoticed.              

Key topics discussed: 

• Camilla’s fertility journey 
• Look at your life as energy: charges and drains 
• Trust is the path to letting go 
• Practicing mindfulness and meditation 
• Managing your stress response 
• Finding time vs. creating space 

Connect with Camilla: 

•  LinkedIn 
• Instagram: @drcamillamoore 

Connect with Jennifer: 

• Schedule a free Fertility Support Session
• Follow her on Instagram for more tips and insights: @jennredmondinhc

 

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with women in your life who can benefit from this information.
 
Disclaimer: The Cycles and Seasons podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional regarding any symptoms or medical problems you are experiencing.
 

 In this episode, Jennifer talks with Dr. Melissa Hines, PT, DPT, about the importance of pelvic floor health. Melissa is a licensed physical therapist in MA and founder of Wellest Integrative Health, the only interdisciplinary premier pelvic health clinic in Boston. Melissa is also co-founder of the Institute for Pelvic Health, a pelvic health education platform for nurse practitioners, midwives and OBGYNs. 

Key topics discussed: 

• Understanding your pelvic floor 
• How estrogen decline impacts your pelvic floor 
• Why all women can benefit from pelvic floor therapy 
• What pelvic floor therapy treats 
• Kegel exercises are over prescribed 
• The importance of vaginal moisturizer 
• Painful sex 
• Working with a pelvic floor PT 
• The role of menopausal hormone therapy related to the pelvic floor 
• How to find a pelvic care practitioner 
• Functional strength training, resistance training, lifestyle modifications and stress management for pelvic health 

Resources Mentioned: 

• Kindra vagina moisturizer 
• Coconut oil 
• Vital V 
• V Magic 
• Slippery Stuff 
• Good Clean Love 
• Pelvicrehab.com 
• Pelvicptrising.com     

 Connect with Melissa: 

• Wellesthealth.com 
• Request an appointment 
• Email: Melissa@wellesthealth.com 
• Instagram: @wellesthealth
• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• Institute for Pelvic Health  

Connect with Jennifer: 

• Schedule a free Perimenopause Support Session
• Follow her on Instagram for more tips and insights: @jennredmondinhc

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with women in your life who can benefit from this information.
 
Disclaimer: The Cycles and Seasons podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional regarding any symptoms or medical problems you are experiencing.
 

Episode 12: Fertility awareness cycle tracking

In this episode Jennifer talks with Julie Lipsett, a licensed therapist and certified fertility awareness educator who helps people feel more connected to their bodies and cycles. Through her work, she empowers individuals to navigate hormonal shifts with confidence, use cycle awareness to feel more at home in their bodies, and advocate for their health.

Key topics discussed:

• What the fertility awareness method is, and how it can be helpful when you’re trying to conceive
• The value in tracking basal body temperature and cervical mucous in understanding your menstrual cycle and ovulation
• Charting your menstrual cycle – how and why
• PCOS, irregular cycles and understanding your unique menstrual cycle
• Your menstrual cycle is a vital sign
• Julie’s PCOS story and how the Fertility Awareness method supports her

This episode provides the perspective that understanding your menstrual cycle is not only a helpful resource when you’re trying to conceive and can also be a window into your hormone health and overall health.

Resources mentioned:

•  Monthly Cycle Charting Meetups

Connect with Julie: 

• Website
• Instagram

 Connect with Jennifer:

• Schedule a free Fertility Support Session
• Follow her on Instagram for more tips and insights:@jennredmondinhc 

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with women in your life who can benefit from this information.

Disclaimer: The Cycles and Seasons podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional regarding any symptoms or medical problems you are experiencing.

In this episode, Jennifer talks with Merle Bombardieri. Merle has been a private practice clinical social worker and psychotherapist for over 35 years and was the Clinical Director of Resolve: The National Infertility Association for 2 years. 

 Merle is the author of the bestselling book The Baby Decision originally published in 1981.

The revised 2016 second edition of The Baby Decision is based on 35 more years of her work guiding decision-makers in educational workshops; long-distance consulting for people around the world; and psychotherapy. 

 In 2023, Merle was joined in her practice by her daughter Vanessa who is a certified coach. Together, they focus their practice on coaching so they can assist as many people as possible in parenthood decision-making.
 
Merle is currently working on her second book, Baby or Childfree.  

Key topics discussed:

• Merle’s “baby decision”
• Finding support when facing fertility struggles
• Exploring options with less fear and more clarity
• Merle’s advice for people who are trying to decide whether continue or stop fertility treatment
• The importance of grieving, and a grieving exercise
• Decision making from a place of empowerment not defeat
• Reframing fears about not having children
• Fertility decisions for partners, who may not be in agreement about what’s next
• How to feel better, stronger, and reclaim power and control over your life again

Resources Mentioned:

• The Baby Decision, Merle Bombardieri
• Living the Life Unexpected: How to find hope, meaning and a fulfilling future without children, Jody Day
• The Next Happy: Let go of the life you planned and find a new way forward, Tracy Cleantis
• So Now What? Create a life you love without the children you always dreamed of, Lana Manikowski
• AllPaths Family Building
• The Childless Collective 
• RESOLVE: The National Infertility Association 

Connect with Merle: 

• Website: thebabydecision.com
• Instagram: @thebabydecision 
• Facebook: @thebabydecision 

Connect with Jennifer:

• Schedule a free Fertility Support Session
• Follow her on Instagram for more tips and insights: @jennredmondinhc
• Subscribe to her newsletter

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with women in your life who can benefit from this information.

Disclaimer: The Cycles and Seasons podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional regarding any symptoms or medical problems you are experiencing.

In this episode Jennifer talks about why perimenopause often feels like a perfect storm of change. (Spoiler alert: because it is!), and strategies to help navigate hormonal shifts that affect you physically, emotionally and cognitively.

Key topics discussed:

• Physical, emotional and cognitive changes happening in perimenopause
• Nutrition tips to help you feel more balanced and energized
• A small but powerful change to start feeling more grounded and empowered today
•  My top piece of advice for embracing this season with confidence and clarity
• Connect with Jennifer:
• Schedule a free Perimenopause Support Session
• Follow her on Instagram for more tips and insights: @jennredmondinhc

Don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with women in your life who can benefit from this information.

Disclaimer: The Cycles and Seasons podcast is for general educational and informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your healthcare professional regarding any symptoms or medical problems you are experiencing.