HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS

"I don't want to grow up, I'm a Toys R Us kid!" "Aflac, Aflac, Aflac" These 30 second jingles are imbedded in our GenX brains and our guest this week is the reason. Advertising legend, award-winning creative leader, and bestselling author Linda Kaplan Thaler joins us to discuss her memoir My Life in 30 Seconds, and the powerful life lessons behind her extraordinary career. From creating some of America's most memorable advertising campaigns to building a successful women-led advertising agency, Linda shares why kindness, creativity, grit, and genuine human connection are essential ingredients for lasting success. Linda is the creative mind behind iconic advertising campaigns and memorable slogans, including Toys “R” Us's “I Don't Want to Grow Up, I'm a Toys “R” Us Kid,” the famous Aflac duck campaign, Herbal Essences' breakthrough marketing, Kodak Moments, and successful brand campaigns for household names like Dawn and Swiffer. In this candid conversation, she reveals how seemingly simple ideas can transform brands, capture the public's imagination, and create lasting emotional connections with consumers. A central theme of the episode is the power of nice. Linda explains why kindness is not a weakness, why ethical business practices can create long-term success, and how treating people well can open doors in unexpected ways. Through moving personal stories, including a lesson in integrity from her six-year-old son and a meaningful connection with General Colin Powell that touched her father's life, she illustrates how small acts of kindness can have an extraordinary impact. Whether you're an entrepreneur, business leader, creative professional, marketer, woman navigating a career change, or someone looking for inspiration in midlife and beyond, this episode offers valuable insights on leadership, personal growth, branding, resilience, and living a more meaningful life. Show Notes/Links: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Linda Kaplan Thaler: Book JOIN THE HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS PODCAST COMMUNITY: Website: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Newsletter: Link Mail [email protected] Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hotflashesandcooltopics Facebook : www.facebook.com/hotflashescooltopics YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HotFlashesCoolTopics

What if breast cancer treatment could prioritize both survival and quality of life? In this last episode of October, Dr. Lucy De La Cruz joins us to discuss the latest advances in breast cancer surgery, robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy, immediate breast reconstruction, and sensory nerve restoration. Dr. De La Cruz shares why women deserve to understand all their surgical options and how personalized, patient-centered care can help women navigate breast cancer treatment with greater confidence, dignity, and control. For women with breast cancer, BRCA gene mutations, or an elevated risk of developing breast cancer, understanding available treatment and preventive surgery options can make a meaningful difference. Dr. De La Cruz discusses the importance of finding an experienced, specialized breast surgery team, understanding individual eligibility, and asking about surgical experience, complication rates, reconstruction options, and sensory recovery. Show Notes/Links: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Dr. De La Cruz: Website JOIN THE HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS PODCAST COMMUNITY: Website: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Newsletter: Link Mail [email protected] Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hotflashesandcooltopics Facebook : www.facebook.com/hotflashescooltopics YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HotFlashesCoolTopics Medical Disclaimer: The information shared in this podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to serve as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The views and opinions expressed by the guest are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the podcast hosts or producers. Every breast cancer diagnosis and treatment journey is unique. Surgical options, including lumpectomy, mastectomy, robotic nipple-sparing mastectomy, breast reconstruction, and resensation procedures, may not be appropriate for every patient. Individual outcomes, risks, benefits, eligibility, and insurance coverage vary. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional regarding your specific medical condition and treatment options. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information discussed in this podcast.

Who remembers the stories of Norma Shearer and her feud with Joan Crawford? This week, we invited actress, producer, and author Illeana Douglas to discuss her new book, Jungle Red: The Making of MGM’s The Women, an in-depth exploration of the legendary 1939 Hollywood film The Women and the remarkable women who shaped its creation. Blending classic Hollywood history, behind the scenes stories, and insightful commentary on women’s roles in the entertainment industry, Douglas uncovers the ambition, rivalries, resilience, and personal struggles behind one of MGM’s most glamorous productions. Beyond the glamour, the conversation explores the double standards faced by women in Hollywood, the pressures of maintaining a public persona, the complicated relationships between career and motherhood, and the difference between a star’s carefully constructed image and her private life. Douglas draws on her own experience as an actress and lifelong movie enthusiast to explain why understanding the personal histories behind classic films creates a richer appreciation of their performances and cultural significance. Whether you love classic Hollywood movies, film history, Old Hollywood gossip, costume design, or stories about trailblazing women, this episode offers a compelling look at the people behind the legend of The Women and the enduring struggle for women to be recognized, respected, and given the opportunity to succeed. Show Notes/Links: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Book: Link JOIN THE HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS PODCAST COMMUNITY: Website: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Newsletter: Link Mail [email protected] Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hotflashesandcooltopics Facebook : www.facebook.com/hotflashescooltopics YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HotFlashesCoolTopics

When should you speak up, and when is it better to keep something to yourself? This week, we welcome Vanessa Bohns, social psychologist at Cornell University and author of Should I Say Something? The Science of What to Share and What to Keep to Yourself, for an insightful conversation about the everyday decisions that shape our relationships, careers, and personal lives. Drawing on psychological research, Vanessa explores why we often overestimate how negatively people will react when we speak up, share our feelings, ask personal questions, or offer honest feedback. From deciding whether to tell a friend about a potentially unfaithful partner to figuring out when to share good news, bad news, or a personal struggle, this conversation offers practical, research-backed guidance for navigating life's most uncomfortable social situations. The discussion examines the difference between kindness and honesty, revealing why the two are not mutually exclusive and how compassionate honesty can help people learn, grow, and strengthen relationships. Vanessa also explains the psychology behind benign and malicious envy, why sharing our successes can inspire others, and how our own actions can challenge social norms such as ghosting in dating and the workplace. We also explore the benefits of asking deeper questions to build meaningful connections, the surprising power of vulnerability, and why sharing difficult experiences can bring people closer together. She challenges the common belief that we must always share our struggles to feel better, highlighting the importance of personal boundaries and choosing the right time and place to open up. She also discusses over-apologizing, how to express empathy without taking responsibility for things that aren't our fault, and how to make a sincere apology without putting the burden on someone else to make us feel better. Finally, the conversation tackles ethical dilemmas and the difficult choices that arise when two competing values such as honesty, loyalty, fairness, and care—seem equally important. She shares a practical framework for identifying your goals, considering short- and long-term consequences, and making thoughtful decisions you can stand behind, even when there is no perfect answer. Whether you're navigating friendships, family dynamics, dating, workplace relationships, or the complexities of life after 50, this episode will help you rethink what it means to speak up, stay silent, and communicate with confidence and compassion. Show Notes/Links: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Book: Link JOIN THE HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS PODCAST COMMUNITY: Website: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Newsletter: Link Mail [email protected] Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hotflashesandcooltopics Facebook : www.facebook.com/hotflashescooltopics YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HotFlashesCoolTopics

What happens after a breast cancer diagnosis and how can patients make informed decisions about screening, treatment, menopause, and life beyond cancer? This week, Dr. Eleonora Teplinsky author of Beyond the Pink: Navigating Life, Health, and Breast Cancer, breaks down the complex realities of breast cancer and offers practical guidance for patients, survivors, previvors, and families. For anyone facing an abnormal mammogram or new breast cancer diagnosis, the episode offers an important message: take a breath and gather information before making decisions. Dr. Teplinsky explains the role of the breast surgeon, the value of getting a second opinion, and why understanding the specific type and biology of a breast cancer is critical. The discussion explores breast cancer staging and tumor biology, including stage 0 disease, DCIS, LCIS, hormone receptor status, HER2 status, tumor grade, lymph node involvement, and prognostic staging. Rather than focusing exclusively on the number of a cancer stage, patients are encouraged to understand the characteristics of their individual cancer and how those factors influence treatment. Dr. Teplinsky also explains the major categories of breast cancer treatment, including surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone-blocking therapy, anti-HER2 therapy, immunotherapy, and other targeted treatments. She emphasizes that not all breast cancers are the same and that treatment should be individualized according to the cancer's type, stage, biomarkers, and other clinical factors. The episode also explores the rapidly evolving fields of molecular and biomarker testing, personalized medicine, artificial intelligence in breast cancer risk assessment, and breast cancer vaccine research. Listeners will learn how these technologies may help physicians better understand tumor behavior and identify targeted treatment options. Clinical trials are another important topic. Dr. Teplinsky encourages patients to ask their medical teams whether a clinical trial may be appropriate and discusses how resources such as ClinicalTrials.gov and nonprofit organizations can help patients identify potential opportunities. The conversation goes beyond diagnosis and treatment to address the realities of living with and beyond breast cancer. Whether you have recently been diagnosed with breast cancer, are supporting someone who has, have a strong family history, are considering genetic testing, or simply want to better understand breast cancer prevention and screening, this episode offers evidence-based information and practical questions to bring to your healthcare team. Show Notes/Links: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Beyond the Pink: Book Link   JOIN THE HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS PODCAST COMMUNITY: Website: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Newsletter: Link Mail [email protected] Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hotflashesandcooltopics Facebook : www.facebook.com/hotflashescooltopics YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HotFlashesCoolTopics    

What if menopause could be viewed not as the end of something, but as the beginning of a new chapter? In this episode, Dr. Ian Smith joins us for an in-depth conversation about menopause nutrition, perimenopause, healthy aging, weight management, inflammation, muscle loss, and the role of food in managing midlife health. Dr. Ian wrote The New Menopause Kitchen to help women navigate the physical and nutritional changes that occur during perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause. His approach focuses on making nutrition simple, actionable, and accessible rather than overwhelming.  Menopause is not a period of resignation—it can be an opportunity to rethink nutrition, movement, strength, and long-term health. By prioritizing protein, fiber, calcium, vitamin D, nutrient-dense whole foods, muscle-building exercise, and an anti-inflammatory lifestyle, women can build a practical foundation for health throughout midlife and beyond.

SHE'S BACK!! We are thrilled that our friend and celebrity baker, Carla Hall returns for a wide ranging conversation about reinvention, creativity, aging, baking, self confidence, and the importance of refusing to let other people underestimate you. Carla opens up about her one woman show, “Please Underestimate Me,” a biographical theatrical production inspired by the many twists, turns, starts, and restarts throughout her life. From working as an accountant and modeling in Europe to becoming a caterer, television personality, cookbook author, and celebrated chef, Carla reflects on what it means to follow the road wherever it leads instead of boxing yourself into a predetermined idea of what comes next. We talk more about reinvention after 50. Carla shares her desire to inspire women, particularly women 50 and older, to “unbox” themselves and rediscover who they are beyond traditional roles and expectations. She discusses the Me Menu, a personal-development concept she created with executive coach Deb Regal, designed to help people turn some of their attention back toward themselves and explore what they want from the next chapter of life. The conversation also explores Carla's latest cookbook, Carla Hall's Carla Bakes: Sweet and Savory Recipes from the Heart, including the stories, techniques, and lessons behind the recipes. The episode goes beyond food, touching on the value of admitting what you don't know, asking for help, staying curious, and continuing to learn at every age. Carla's story demonstrates how embracing uncertainty can open the door to unexpected opportunities. She also shares a particularly emotional story about her lifelong admiration for Carol Burnett and the extraordinary moment when Burnett contributed a voiceover to Carla's One Woman show. For Carla, the experience represented a full circle moment between the 12-year-old girl who dreamed of becoming the “Black Carol Burnett” and the accomplished woman she became decades later. Listeners will also hear about Carla's continued creative projects, including her work with The Chew alumni on YouTube, her ongoing television appearances, and much more.  As always, she is excited for the next adventure!

What happens when a relationship becomes emotionally draining? In this insightful conversation with therapist, Jessica Miller, we explore the importance of recognizing unhealthy relationships, setting necessary boundaries, and giving yourself permission to walk away from friendships or relationships that no longer support your emotional well-being. Jessica shares valuable insight into why people often feel obligated to stay in draining friendships and relationships and why ending a friendship can sometimes be the healthiest choice. The conversation offers practical perspective on navigating difficult relationships, protecting your peace, and building connections that are supportive, fulfilling, and mutually healthy.  We also discuss when it is necessary to go no contact. Whether you're struggling with a toxic friendship, questioning whether a relationship is still serving you, or simply looking for ways to create healthier connections, this episode provides thoughtful advice and encouragement. Show Notes/Links: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Jessica Miller Website: Mind Your Boundaries JOIN THE HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS PODCAST COMMUNITY: Website: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Newsletter: Link Mail [email protected] Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hotflashesandcooltopics Facebook : www.facebook.com/hotflashescooltopics YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HotFlashesCoolTopics  

You are not born with style, you learn it. And when it comes to personal style after 50, it’s never too late to figure out what makes you feel comfortable, confident, and completely yourself. This week, we’re joined by stylist Chellie Carlson to talk about creating a wardrobe and personal style that actually works for women over 50. And her first piece of advice? Stop shopping and start with your closet. Take a peek inside your wardrobe and ask yourself: Do you actually wear more than 20% of what you own? If the answer is no, it may be time for a serious closet reset. Chellie believes the first step to discovering your personal style is removing the clutter. That might mean donating more than 50% of your wardrobe, and yes, that can sound painful! But clearing out the clothes you don't wear creates space to see what you truly love, what feels comfortable, and what you want to wear more of now. We’re talking about why you should size up when something doesn’t fit, let go of clothes that no longer serve you, and stop feeling guilty about wearing the same pieces again and again. You don’t need 10 white T-shirts, 3great ones might be plenty. And there is absolutely nothing wrong with repeating an outfit or styling one quality garment multiple ways. We also discuss the temptation to buy something simply because it’s on sale. A bargain isn't a bargain if you don't love it, wear it, or feel great in it. Chellie shares practical, budget-friendly styling tips to help women over 50 define their personal style, simplify their wardrobe, dress with confidence, and shop with intention without breaking the bank. Because great style isn't about having more clothes. It’s about having the right clothes for the woman you are today. Show Notes/Links: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Chellie Carlson: Website JOIN THE HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS PODCAST COMMUNITY: Website: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Newsletter: Link Mail [email protected] Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hotflashesandcooltopics Facebook : www.facebook.com/hotflashescooltopics YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HotFlashesCoolTopics

Next week is the 25th Anniversary of the 9/11 attacks. This week, we are reliving some of those critical moments from the view of former CNN anchor, Carol Lin.  Carol was one of the first news anchors to report that morning.  Carol shares her experience and how her team carried many of us through that horrible day. Carole also discusses her fascinating and deeply personal book, When News Breaks, her career experiences, and the unexpected connections she has made throughout her life. When News Breaks is more than a memoir about being a journalist on 9/11. It's a powerful story about the duality of womanhood and the impossible pressure many women feel to succeed at work while simultaneously being present for their families, partners, and children. Show Notes/Links: www.hotflashescooltopics.com JOIN THE HOT FLASHES & COOL TOPICS PODCAST COMMUNITY: Website: www.hotflashescooltopics.com Newsletter: Link Mail [email protected] Instagram https://www.instagram.com/hotflashesandcooltopics Facebook : www.facebook.com/hotflashescooltopics YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@HotFlashesCoolTopics WE APPRECIATE POSITIVE RATINGS AND REVIEWS!