Tech meets empathy - Dr. Nicole Avard

This episode is proudly sponsored by PhycoHealthEXCITING NEWS!! Today’s sponsor PhycoHealth is offering a Holiday BRAIN FOG BUNDLE for only $95.00 exclusively for Menopause: the Future! listeners, when you use the PROMO CODE PhycoFuture20 LINK BELOW:https://www.phycohealth.com/products/brainfog-bundleWHAT'S IN THE BUNDLE?SeaFibre-3 by PhycoHealth is a unique gut-brain support blend combining algal Omega-3 and clinically studied seaweed fibre. PhycoHealth's clincial research on seaweed and algal molecules revealed important links between diet, impulsivity, inflammation and gut repair — all factors now being explored in the context of menopausal brain fog (the topic we’re discussing today).Also offered in the pack is their wildly, popular product Nourish Moisturiser with seaweed extract in a 250ml bottle.Please take advantage of this exclusive offer which is the perfect way to support your mind, mood, and skin heading into the beautifully chaotic family season. And we thank Dr. Pia Winberg and PhycoHealth for supporting the podcast! MORE INFORMATION ON PHYCOHEALTHSeaFibre-3 by PhycoHealth was designed specifically gut health and inflammation impacts on skin.. but these impacts go far beyond elevated skin dryness - it even has effects on brain and it is deeply relevant to what women experience during this phase.In clinical studies outside the menopausal population, PhycoHealth’s unique seaweed fibre (SXRG84) demonstrated:*improvements in gut repair and inflammation markers,*up-regulation of sirtuin pathways (SIRT proteins) linked to brain aging and resilience,*changes in behaviour such as reduced impulsivity, when combined with algal Omega-3.These mechanisms are now being explored in relation to menopausal brain fog, where inflammation, stress signalling, neurotransmitter shifts, and gut permeability are increasingly recognised as drivers of cognitive dips.SeaFibre-3 delivers two ocean-derived compounds essential for gut–brain support:Sulfated seaweed fibre (SXRG84) — shown to modulate inflammation pathways that impact memory, mood, and neural clarity.Algal Omega-3 DHA — known to shape brain flexibility, emotional steadiness, and the gut microbes that influence cognition. A novel fact for listenersDuring menopause, declining oestrogen reduces butyrate-producing gut bacteria, which are crucial for maintaining the gut barrier and reducing neuroinflammation. Reduced butyrate is increasingly associated with brain fog, slowed processing, and mood fluctuation. This gut-driven neural stress is one reason women feel “not themselves” — a mechanism perfectly aligned with the gut–brain pathways SeaFibre-3 is built to support.While studies are ongoing, SeaFibre-3 offers nutritional inputs — fibre, Omega-3, anti-inflammatory pathways — that help fill modern gaps affecting brain performance and clarity.Proudly brought to you by PhycoHealth — healing humans without harming oceans.Welcome to the final episode of “Menopause: The Future!” Series 2, where we’re closing out with a crucial topic: sleep disturbance in perimenopause and menopause. This week, Dr. Ginni Mansberg—GP, media communicator, and author of “The M Word”—joins our discussion on why sleep suffers during this transition, and what really works to improve it. Ginni brings clinical expertise and a passion for science-based advice, unpacking how hormonal changes affect mood, cognition, and quality of rest. She guides us through evidence-backed solutions—from therapies and lifestyle tweaks to emerging tech—while debunking common myths about “miracle” fixes.Together with Professor Jayashri Kulkarni’s vision for smarter, more sensitive menopause care, we explore what the future holds: AI-powered sleep tracking, personalised medicine, and integrated support that truly listens to women’s experiences. We also discuss how policy, access, and self-advocacy are vital for shaping care that’s effective and compassionate. Expect practical tips, nuanced perspectives, and fresh ways to help every woman take charge of her sleep and wellbeing in midlife._______________________________________________________________________________This episode is proudly sponsored by PhycoHealthPhycoHealth is not just another wellness company — it’s Australia’s first to cultivate and extract a truly unique seaweed ingredient with its own molecular structure, proven in clinical studies to benefit gut health, skin vitality, and whole-body resilience.From perimenopause through post-menopause, PhycoHealth’s range of foods, supplements, and skincare deliver the fibre, hydration, inflammation balance, and nutritional support women need most. This is not a reformulation — it’s a breakthrough in nutritional and preventative health, built on decades of medical and marine science.At PhycoHealth, we believe in healing humans without harming oceans.Learn more at www.phycohealth.com________________________________________________________________________________DR. GINNI MANSBERG WEBSITE:https://drginni.com.au/THE M WORD - BOOK - BY GINNI MANSBERGhttps://www.amazon.com.au/Word-menopause-revised-updated-bestseller/dp/1761500252THIS WAY UP - UNIVERSITY OF NSW - INSOMNIA PROGRAMhttps://thiswayup.org.au/programs/insomnia-program/GINNI'S SKINCARE RANGE - ESK - EVIDENCE SKINCAREhttps://www.eskcare.com/pages/dr-ginni-mansberg"MENOPAUSE: THE FUTURE!" is a CLKProductionsMedia Production all rights reservedProduced and written by Caroline Kelly - [email protected]**FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM - clkproductionsmediaContent Design and Socials - Daniel Borbely - Sequenced By [email protected]**No speakers receive any funding from Besins Healthcare Australia and have no conflict of interest to declare.**Theramex Australia is not a sponsor of this episode of "Menopause: The Future!"Episode 6 kindly sponsored by Besins Healthcare Australia.

This episode is proudly sponsored by PhycoHealthEXCITING NEWS!! Today’s sponsor PhycoHealth is offering a Holiday BRAIN FOG BUNDLE for only $95.00 exclusively for Menopause: the Future! listeners, when you use the PROMO CODE PhycoFuture20  HERE -https://www.phycohealth.com/products/brainfog-bundleWHAT'S IN THE BUNDLE?SeaFibre-3 by PhycoHealth is a unique gut-brain support blend combining algal Omega-3 and clinically studied seaweed fibre. PhycoHealth's clincial research on seaweed and algal molecules revealed important links between diet, impulsivity, inflammation and gut repair — all factors now being explored in the context of menopausal brain fog (the topic we’re discussing today).Also offered in the pack is their wildly, popular product  Nourish Moisturiser with seaweed extract in a 250ml bottle.Please take advantage of this exclusive offer which is the perfect way to support your mind, mood, and skin heading into the beautifully chaotic family season. And we thank Dr. Pia Winberg and PhycoHealth for supporting the podcast! MORE INFORMATION ON PHYCOHEALTHSeaFibre-3 by PhycoHealth was designed specifically gut health and inflammation impacts on skin.. but these impacts go far beyond elevated skin dryness -  it even has effects on brain and it is deeply relevant to what women experience during this phase.In clinical studies outside the menopausal population, PhycoHealth’s unique seaweed fibre (SXRG84) demonstrated:*improvements in gut repair and inflammation markers,*up-regulation of sirtuin pathways (SIRT proteins) linked to brain aging and resilience,*changes in behaviour such as reduced impulsivity, when combined with algal Omega-3.These mechanisms are now being explored in relation to menopausal brain fog, where inflammation, stress signalling, neurotransmitter shifts, and gut permeability are increasingly recognised as drivers of cognitive dips.SeaFibre-3 delivers two ocean-derived compounds essential for gut–brain support:Sulfated seaweed fibre (SXRG84) — shown to modulate inflammation pathways that impact memory, mood, and neural clarity.Algal Omega-3 DHA — known to shape brain flexibility, emotional steadiness, and the gut microbes that influence cognition. A novel fact for listenersDuring menopause, declining oestrogen reduces butyrate-producing gut bacteria, which are crucial for maintaining the gut barrier and reducing neuroinflammation. Reduced butyrate is increasingly associated with brain fog, slowed processing, and mood fluctuation. This gut-driven neural stress is one reason women feel “not themselves” — a mechanism perfectly aligned with the gut–brain pathways SeaFibre-3 is built to support.While studies are ongoing, SeaFibre-3 offers nutritional inputs — fibre, Omega-3, anti-inflammatory pathways — that help fill modern gaps affecting brain performance and clarity.Proudly brought to you by PhycoHealth — healing humans without harming oceans.PhycoHealth Brain Fog Bloghttps://www.phycohealth.com/blogs/news/brain-fog-not-woo-not-weakness-a-biological-reality________________________________________________________________________________Associate Professor Caroline Gurvich unpacks the phenomenon of brain fog in perimenopause and menopause, examining symptoms like forgetfulness, poor concentration, and mental fatigue that can impact daily life. Caroline discusses how hormonal changes affect cognitive health and delves into the promising role of MHT and wearable technologies in the future of menopause care. With new devices now capable of tracking sleep, stress, and other cognitive indicators, women and clinicians gain real-time data to better understand and manage brain fog. Caroline also highlights the latest research and strategies for supporting mental clarity and preventing cognitive decline, reflecting the podcast’s commitment to combining cutting-edge science, technology, and women’s lived experiences. This episode empowers both women and healthcare professionals to approach brain fog with new tools, knowledge, and hope for more personalised menopause care.Associate Prof. Caroline Gurvich - Monash Universityhttps://research.monash.edu/en/persons/caroline-gurvich/HER Centre Australia - Cognition and Hormoneshttps://www.monash.edu/medicine/her-centre/research/cognition-and-hormones"MENOPAUSE: THE FUTURE!" is a CLKProductionsMedia Production - all rights reservedProduced and written by Caroline Kelly - [email protected] Design and Socials - Daniel Borbely - Sequenced By [email protected]**No speakers receive any funding from Besins Healthcare Australia and have no conflict of interest to declare.**Theramex Australia is not a sponsor of this episode of "Menopause: The Future!"

CLKProductionsMedia thanks this week's generous sponsors of this episode;Proudly supported by Theramex AustraliaProudly sponsored by Besins Healthcare AustraliaIn this episode of "Menopause: The Future," Dr. Nicole Avard, co-founder of Metluma, reveals how cutting-edge wearable tech—think smart rings and watches—is transforming menopause care. Discover how Metluma’s doctor-led, science-backed approach combines real-time health data with genuine empathy, offering women personalised clinical treatments, alternative therapies, and holistic coaching. Hear how this innovative, team-based model is empowering women to reclaim control and clarity over their health journey.METLUMA WEBSITEhttps://metluma.com/UMA 40https://metluma.com/uma40/"MENOPAUSE: THE FUTURE!" is a CLKProductionsMedia Production all rights reservedProduced and written by Caroline Kelly - [email protected] Design and Socials - Daniel Borbely - Sequenced By [email protected]** No speakers receive any funding from Besins Healthcare Australia or Theramex Australia and have no conflict of interest to declare.

Dr Eveline Mu—research fellow at HER Centre Australia and award-winning neuroscientist—shares the latest insights into menopausal depression and PMDD, and how innovative treatments are reshaping women’s mental health care. Dr Mu’s research investigates how hormonal fluctuations, especially in oestrogen and progesterone, trigger mood changes in sensitive women during menopause and PMDD, and why personalised care is urgently needed.As a close collaborator of our co-host, Professor Jayashri Kulkarni, Dr Mu leads studies on novel hormone therapies (like transdermal estradiol with micronised progesterone), and explores the genetic and epigenetic reasons some women are especially affected. Recognition for her work includes the WHRTN Early and Mid-Career Researcher Award, the Ian Parker Bipolar Research Fund PhD Scholarship, and the Monash University ‘Hidden Gem’ Award for 2025.MENO-D SCALEhttps://www.monash.edu/__data/assets/pdf_file/0006/3793488/2024_MENO-D.pdf"MENOPAUSE: THE FUTURE!" is a CLKProductionsMedia Production all rights reservedProduced and written by Caroline Kelly - [email protected] Design and Socials - Daniel Borbely - Sequenced By [email protected]**No speakers receive any funding from Besins Healthcare Australia and have no conflict of interest to declare.**Theramex Australia is not a sponsor of this episode of "Menopause: The Future!"

In this episode of Menopause: The Future!, we explore Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM), a common but often overlooked condition affecting many women during and after menopause. GSM results from decreasing oestrogen levels, causing changes in the vulva, vagina, and urinary tract. Typical symptoms include vaginal dryness, burning, itching, discomfort during sex, and urinary problems such as urgency, frequent infections, and incontinence. These symptoms can significantly affect quality of life but are frequently under-reported due to embarrassment or lack of awareness. Emerging diagnostic tools and treatments offer new hope for effective management and improved wellbeing. Dr Kelly Casperson shares insights from her forthcoming book, The Menopause Moment, releasing in Australia on 18th September 2025, which provides compassionate, evidence-based guidance on menopause care including GSM. This episode highlights the importance of recognising GSM as a treatable aspect of menopause, encouraging women to seek help and empowering healthcare professionals to better support their patients.Dr. Kelly Casperson Websitehttps://kellycaspersonmd.com/"The Menopause Moment" by Dr. Kelly Casperson - (book available 18/9/25 in Australia)https://www.amazon.com.au/Midlife-Matters-Stronger-Through-Menopause/dp/1399813633"MENOPAUSE: THE FUTURE!" is a CLKProductionsMedia Production all rights reservedProduced and written by Caroline Kelly - [email protected]**FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM - clkproductionsmediaContent Design and Socials - Daniel Borbely - Sequenced By [email protected]**No speakers receive any funding from Besins Healthcare Australia and have no conflict of interest to declare.**Theramex Australia is not a sponsor of this episode of "Menopause: The Future!"

In this episode, Dr. Ceri Cashell shares her dynamic approach to shaping the future of perimenopause and menopause care in Australia. As a proactive GP and co-founder of Healthy Hormones, Dr. Cashell discusses her mission to upskill GPs, promote professional education, and foster greater public awareness around female hormonal health. She delves into the importance of extended GP consultations, the role of digital tools and AI in empowering patients, and her advocacy for more inclusive, accessible menopause care. Dr. Cashell also offers a behind-the-scenes look at the “So Hot Right Now” event and recaps highlights from the recent Digital Health Festival, including the promise - and limits - of technology in tackling persistent gender bias in healthcare. Join us for inspiring insights on tailored, patient-centred menopause support and hear Dr. Cashell’s vision for future-proofing clinical practice and empowering women at every stage of their hormonal health journey.This episode is proudly sponsored by PhycoHealthPhycoHealth is not just another wellness company - it’s Australia’s first to cultivate and extract a truly unique seaweed ingredient with its own molecular structure, proven in clinical studies to benefit gut health, skin vitality, and whole-body resilience.From perimenopause through post-menopause, PhycoHealth’s range of foods, supplements, and skincare deliver the fibre, hydration, inflammation balance, and nutritional support women need most. This is not a reformulation - it’s a breakthrough in nutritional and preventative health, built on decades of medical and marine science.At PhycoHealth, we believe in healing humans without harming oceans.Learn more at www.phycohealth.com________________________________________________________________________________DR CERI CASHELLhttps://drcericashell.com/HEALTHY HORMONEShttps://www.healthyhormones.au/join"SO HOT RIGHT NOW" MEDICAL CONFERENCE - ON DEMAND DIGITAL RECORDINGhttps://community.healthyhormones.au/checkout/so-hot-right-now-sydney-opera-house-recording"MENOPAUSE: THE FUTURE!" is a CLKProductionsMedia Production all rights reserved**FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM - clkproductionsmediaProduced and written by Caroline Kelly - [email protected] Design and Socials - Daniel Borbely - Sequenced By [email protected]**No speakers receive any funding from Besins Healthcare Australia and have no conflict of interest to declare.**Theramex Australia is not a sponsor of this episode of "Menopause: The Future!"

Senator Larissa Waters is the newly elected leader of the Australian Greens - (since the recording of this podcast Feb 20th 2025) - becoming only the second woman to head the party in its history. At the time of recording, she was the federal spokesperson on Women and Democracy and has been a vocal advocate for gender equality, environmental justice, and democratic reform. She has worked on issues such as domestic violence prevention, renewable energy transitions, and corporate political donations reform. Senator Waters was instrumental in tabling the landmark consensus multi-partisan report that formed the Senate Inquiry into Issues related to Menopause and Perimenopause."MENOPAUSE: THE FUTURE!" is a CLKProductionsMedia Production all rights reservedProduced and written by Caroline Kelly - [email protected] Design and Socials - Daniel Borbely - Sequenced By [email protected]**No speakers receive any funding from Besins Healthcare Australia and have no conflict of interest to declare.SENATE INQUIRY REPORThttps://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate/Community_Affairs/Menopause/Report 

Dr. Louise Newson is a UK powerhouse in the Menopause space who advocates for better menopause care and awareness. She created the Balance App, a free menopause support resource with over a million downloads and hosts the UK's top-ranked medical podcast "The Dr. Louise Newson Podcast"."MENOPAUSE: THE FUTURE!" is a CLKProductionsMedia Production all rights reservedProduced and written by Caroline Kelly - [email protected] Design and Socials - Daniel Borbely - Sequenced By [email protected]**BESINS HEALTHCARE AUSTRALIA IS NOT A SPONSOR OF THIS EPISODE OF "MENOPAUSE: THE FUTURE!"SENATE INQUIRY REPORThttps://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate/Community_Affairs/Menopause/ReportNEWSON HEALTHhttps://www.newsonhealth.co.uk/staff/dr-louise-newson/BALANCE APPhttps://www.balance-menopause.com/balance-app/THE DR. LOUISE NEWSON PODCASThttps://open.spotify.com/episode/1AxlmFpXuwslxZ0wQjBFAT?si=01EfdMQTT-GPpjRstoXZ2g

"MENOPAUSE: THE FUTURE!" is a CLKProductionsMedia Production all rights reservedProduced and written by Caroline Kelly - [email protected] Design and Socials - Daniel Borbely - Sequenced By [email protected]**THIS EPISODE IS NOT SPONSORED BY BESINS HEALTHCARESENATE INQUIRY REPORThttps://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate/Community_Affairs/Menopause/ReportKAZ COOKE WEBSITEhttps://kazcooke.com.au/IT'S THE MENOPAUSE BOOK - KAZ COOKEhttps://kazcooke.com.au/book/its-the-menopause/

JEAN HAILES SUBMISSION TO THE SENATE INQUIRYhttps://www.jeanhailes.org.au/news/jean-hailes-welcomes-senate-inquiry-report-on-perimenopause-and-menopauseJEAN HAILES PRACTITIONERS TOOLKIT FOR MANAGING MENOPAUSEhttps://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-professionals/webinars/the-updated-practitioners-toolkit-for-managing-menopauseAUSTRALASIAN MENOPAUSE SOCIETYhttps://www.menopause.org.au/"MENOPAUSE: THE FUTURE!" is a CLKProductionsMedia Production all rights reservedProduced and written by Caroline Kelly - [email protected] Design and Socials - Daniel Borbely - Sequenced By [email protected]**No speakers receive any funding from Besins Healthcare Australia and have no conflict of interest to declare.SENATE INQUIRY REPORThttps://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate/Community_Affairs/Menopause/Report