Why does the menopause transition feel so overwhelming for modern women — and why are so many clients stuck in information overload?
In this episode of Health Coach Radio, Erin Power sits down with Bree Rudner, a health coach specializing in women in their 40s and 50s and a coach on Dr. Mindy Pelz's team.
Bree shares her personal journey from an autoimmune diagnosis in her late 30s to building a coaching practice rooted in physical foundations, mental well-being, and simplicity. Together, Erin and Bree explore why confusion has become one of the biggest barriers to progress — and how health coaches can create relief by removing decision fatigue and focusing on what actually works.
What This Conversation Covers
From autoimmune diagnosis to coaching
Bree recounts navigating the low-fat era, developing rheumatoid arthritis, and ultimately reclaiming her health through nutrition and lifestyle changes. When others began asking how she did it, coaching became the natural next step.
Quick wins build trust
Bree explains why she starts with the physical body, especially blood sugar regulation. Protein is her go-to "quiet win" because it increases satiety, reduces cravings, and gives clients fast, tangible results.
Stress is the elephant in the room
Many women resist admitting they're stressed, believing they have it handled. Bree breaks down how the "superwoman" mindset, constant rushing, and multiple roles quietly deplete women during midlife.
Confusion is the modern barrier
Today's clients aren't lacking information — they're drowning in it. Bree shares why health coaches provide massive value by offering a structured, personalized framework that allows clients to tune out the noise.
Fasting as decision relief
Working with Dr. Mindy Pelz reinforced how fasting can be helpful not just metabolically, but psychologically. Removing constant food decisions creates mental space and lowers stress for many women.
Midlife and the culture clash
Women in menopause were shaped by the thin ideal of the 1990s, which conflicts with the current need for protein, strength training, and muscle preservation. This disconnect creates frustration and resistance during the transition.
Testing as validation
Bree discusses how functional testing like the DUTCH test helps clients feel seen and validated when traditional labs look "normal" despite persistent symptoms.
Episode Timestamps
0:33 Bree's health journey and autoimmune diagnosis
3:40 Starting with physical foundations for quick wins
5:43 Protein as a powerful first intervention
7:36 Stress as the hidden driver of symptoms
11:47 Chronic rushing and depletion in midlife
13:40 Confusion as a major coaching challenge
14:15 Fasting and decision fatigue
18:13 Menopause as an initiation, not a failure
20:17 Meditation as an anchor
27:06 Gen X diet culture vs midlife needs
33:00 DUTCH testing and client validation
40:00 Working with Dr. Mindy Pelz
42:26 Reframing menopause and aging well
51:40 The most rewarding part of Bree's work
Where to Find Bree
Instagram: @breerudner
Website: breerudner.com
Ready to Turn Your Passion for Health Into Lasting Impact?
Health Coach Radio is your backstage pass into the world of health and wellness coaching, hosted by Primal Health Coach Institute Coaching Director Erin Power and powered by the legacy of founder Mark Sisson. Each episode brings real stories, expert strategies, and practical insights to help you grow as a coach and make a meaningful impact.
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