Best The Curl Plug Podcasts (2025)

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Healing Your Gut, Thriving in Community And Navigating Menopause with MenoLabs, Natasha Rao and Dr. Maggie Ney 58:59

Play Pause

2M ago58:59

58:59

In this episode of The Pause Pod, I'm joined by MenoLab's Natasha Rao and Dr. Maggie Ney, ND, MSCP to explore menopause through science, personal stories, and community support. The conversation covers breaking stigma, the importance of diverse research, and practical tools for managing symptoms—highlighting gut health, hormone balance, and individ…

1
100th Episode Finale! | Switch 2, DK Bananza, & Name That Tune! 59:26

2M ago59:26

59:26

It's official: This is our 100th episode! Join us for impressions of the Switch 2, Donkey Kong Bananza, and Marcus FINALLY having his revenge on Jared with a special Name That Tune! Thank you for listening to and supporting our show. We've had such a good run, and we hope you'll keep an eye out for some of our future projects, maybe even including …

1
Millennial Menopause: Empowering Women Through The Transition with Lauren Tetenbaum 28:45

2M ago28:45

28:45

In this episode of The Pause Pod, I chat with Lauren A. Tetenbaum, a licensed therapist and author of Millennial Menopause. Lauren shares her journey from law to women’s health advocacy, discusses the mental health challenges of menopause, and highlights the need for better education and support for millennials. We explore systemic healthcare issue…

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Unleashing the Power of Sisterhood: Transforming Women’s Health Conversations with Elizabeth Elfenbein 1:02:23

4M ago1:02:23

1:02:23

In this episode of The Pause Pod, I sat down with Elizabeth Elfenbein, founder of Under the Sisterhood. Elizabeth shares her personal health journey with Graves’ disease, the importance of self-care, and the value of community support. We discussed breaking taboos around menopause, advocating for women’s health, and fostering authentic connections.…

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Sassy and Science-Backed: Menopause Solutions with Kate Wells 54:45

5M ago54:45

54:45

In this episode of The Pause Pod, I'm joined by hormone expert and CEO of Parlor Games, Kate Wells. Among other things, we dive into physiology and the science-backed solutions that can bring relief and vitality. Kate shares her journey and the inspiration behind Parlor Games, its flagship products like Silky Peach Cream and Vibrant Third, and why …

1
Start Your Menopause Toolkit with the Right Tools For Your Health & Wellbeing 37:46

5M ago37:46

37:46

In this episode of The Pause Pod, I delve into essential tools and resources for thriving through menopause. I emphasize the importance of information, nutrition, supplements, mindset shifts, community support, and technology. I also highlight valuable books and organizations dedicated to menopause support. My aim is to empower you with knowledge a…

1
The Role of Rituals in Reconnecting with Your Body During Menopause & Growing Older 37:30

6M ago37:30

37:30

In this episode of The Pause Pod, I explore "The Power of Daily Practices," focusing on the importance of personal rituals for people experiencing menopause or midlife (aka growing older) transitions. I share some of my own practices, such as mirror work, daily prayers, moisturizing, and "sunset surrender," which involves reflecting on and releasin…

1
From Diagnosis to Empowerment: Conquering Cancer & Menopause with a Pausitive Outlook 56:28

6M ago56:28

56:28

In this episode, Teyonna Bowman, a two-time breast cancer survivor and founder of Pausitive Outlook, shares her journey of being diagnosed with hormone-sensitive invasive breast cancer at 35 and experiencing a recurrence before 40. Her treatments led to medically induced menopause, prompting her to advocate for early detection and open conversation…

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Wanderstop | Review 27:52

7M ago27:52

27:52

As admirers of Davey Wreden’s previous work, we’re now thrilled to review his latest game, “Wanderstop”, a cozy tea-making game with a character-driven narrative and some poignant moments that are darker than you’d typically expect from this type of fare. We’ll stay spoiler-free for our discussion here, but if you’d like to play the game fresh plea…

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The Legend of Zelda: Name That Tune MASTER QUEST! 40:12

7M ago40:12

40:12

Connor from the ZU podcast joins Jared this week for an ultra-hard gauntlet of obscure Zelda music! Can you correctly identify these 15 tracks from across the mainline titles, spin-offs, and Japanese exclusives? Let us know how you do! Check out the ZU podcast HERE: https://zeldauniverse.net/media/podcasts/ And Connor’s other platforms: Bluesky) @c…

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The Butterfly Effect: Transforming Your Perimenopausal Experience 1:08:05

8M ago1:08:05

1:08:05

In this episode of The Pause Pod, I delve into the often-overlooked topic of perimenopause with guests EJ Kim and Marina Pen, founders of NNABI. EJ shares her struggles with PCOS and the confusion surrounding her perimenopausal journey, while Marina discusses her experiences with endometriosis. Both highlight the lack of information and support for…

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Name That Tune - 2024 Games Edition! 26:20

9M ago26:20

26:20

It is our OTHER yearly tradition to surprise Marcus with a “Name That Tune” featuring themes from 2024’s biggest video game releases! Can you beat Marcus? Let us know how well you score! Most of all, happy new year! We look forward to hearing from you in 2025! YouTube Version (with cheat sheet): https://youtu.be/_yzM_9pdELc If you have upcoming ind…

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Our Top Games of the Year - 2024 36:43

9M ago36:43

36:43

It is our yearly tradition to discuss our top games this year, and boy was 2024 STACKED! Sit back, relax, and enjoy as we talk about our top 5 games and way, way too many honorable mentions. Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction 3:16 - How is the Backlog is coming along? 4:50 - Marcus’s #5 6:32 - Jared’s #5 9:26 - Marcus’s #4 13:49 - Quick Tangent 14:31 …

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Demystifying Menopause With Dr. Dineasha Potter-McQuilkin, MD, FACOG, DIPABLM, MACP 46:02

11M ago46:02

46:02

In this episode of The Pause Pod, I sit down with Dr. Potter-McQuilkin, a double board-certified physician specializing in gynecology and lifestyle medicine, as well as a certified menopause practitioner. In the midst of perimenopause herself, she shares her expertise on managing menopause symptoms and empowering women through holistic care. We tou…

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The Rise of the Golden Idol | Developer Interview (+FREE GAME GIVEAWAY!) 29:04

11M ago29:04

29:04

Marcus has been working on a new detective video game with his creative partner Nathan, and today we’re going to dive into what that was like! Join us as we discuss what makes for a good murder mystery scenario, some behind-the-scenes development stories, and find out whether this game truly is the “soulslike” of detective video games. If you’re in…

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UFO 50 | Our TOP 10 Games! 33:28

12M ago33:28

33:28

UFO 50 is one of the most ambitious indies we've ever played: 50 games in one, and some of which are all-time classics! Here are our top ten. If you have upcoming indie game recommendations, or just want to reach out, feel free to contact us at LevelWithUsPodcast [at] gmail [dot] com! We are on all major podcasting platforms: https://anchor.fm/leve…

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Murder Trivia Challenge! [Podcast Plug] 3:03

12M ago3:03

3:03

I guested on Marcus's podcast this week to try and stump him and his co-host Nathan with a trivia challenge! It was a lot of fun, and even if you haven't listened to their show, I recommend checking it out! Link below: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6vhMLSn3txDw3YvpTluvVe?si=t9zLCtw2Rhyaw2CgIPwv_Q

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The Plucky Squire (feat. Cy from Fireplace Gaming!) 31:55

1y ago31:55

31:55

Cy from Fireplace Gaming joins in this week to take a look at The Plucky Squire, which was just released! In this 2D top-down / 3D platform hybrid, you manipulate a storybook and engage in really well-designed puzzles. Take a listen to hear our thoughts on the game, and be sure to check out Cy’s other videos HERE: https://www.youtube.com/@fireplace…

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Astro Bot | Mini-Review 4:02

1y ago4:02

4:02

Pure bliss. It's nice to remember why I love video games. If you have a game recommendation, write us at LevelWithUsPodcast{AT]gmail[DOT}com ! Check out Digital Foundry's excellent video on how the game is a technical marvel: https://youtu.be/1qhV6Tv1FkM?si=fG9HXcagd8UmC6In

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Cat Quest III | Mini-Review 5:47

1y ago5:47

5:47

Cat Quest III may sound like a silly game, but trust me when I say it's worth checking out. It may just surprise you...Check out my other reviews on GG!https://ggapp.io/jkrgamerIf you have upcoming indie game recommendations, or just want to reach out, feel free to contact us at LevelWithUsPodcast [at] gmail [dot] com!…

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SteamWorld Heist II | REVIEW (+Free Game Giveaway!) 26:29

1y ago26:29

26:29

The SteamWorld series has ALWAYS been excellent, but how does this new sea-faring sea-quel hold up? Marcus re-joins us this week to discuss it! And stay tuned to the end to find out how you can win a FREE COPY of SteamWorld Heist II! YouTube version: https://youtu.be/a9QzL7qu5dQ If you have upcoming indie game recommendations, or just want to reach…

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A Quick Update 2:25

1y ago2:25

2:25

A new YouTube-exclusive episode is up! Please consider subscribing: https://youtu.be/9r9phVKhulw More episodes are on the way. Thank you for your patience!

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Metroid: Other M & Star Fox Zero | Nintendo's Black Sheep? 10:46

1y ago10:46

10:46

Are Metroid: Other M and Star Fox Zero really that bad? ...I don't think so. In fact, I think there's actually a lot to love about these "black sheep"! Join me as I try to find all of their good qualities! Check out my other reviews on GG! https://ggapp.io/jkrgamer If you have upcoming indie game recommendations, or just want to reach out, feel fre…

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Embracing Holistic Wellness: LaShanna Moore's Journey From Creative Arts To Health Advocacy 53:44

1+ y ago53:44

53:44

In this episode of The Pause Pod, I explore the inspiring journey of LaShanna Moore, a passionate advocate for holistic wellness who transitioned from the creative arts to health advocacy. LaShanna's unique path highlights the connections between creativity, empathy, and health. Her story of transformation and dedication reveals how her experiences…

1
A Midlife Renaissance: Strategies For Reinventing Your Next Chapter 54:12

1+ y ago54:12

54:12

If you know you know. Reinventing yourself as you grow older or as the menopausal transition unfolds is a powerful way to embrace change and discover new paths. But it’s not always easy. This time in life is perfect for exploring fresh interests, starting different careers, deepening relationships. It's about using life's experiences to shape a fut…

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Isles of Sea & Sky | Mini-Review 3:58

1+ y ago3:58

3:58

With a simple premise and controls, Isles of Sea and Sky is a lovely puzzle game with lovely vibes. If you're a fan of block-pushing games in The Legend of Zelda, or just love the gameboy aesthetic, this one is well worth checking out. Here are my thoughts on the game. Check out on Steam! https://store.steampowered.com/app/1233070/Isles_of_Sea_and_…

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No Rest For The Wicked | Mini-Review (Early Access) 6:31

1+ y ago6:31

6:31

I don’t love Soulslikes…but I quite like No Rest for the Wicked so far. Here are my thoughts on the early access release! Check out my other reviews on GG! https://ggapp.io/jkrgamer If you have upcoming indie game recommendations, or just want to reach out, feel free to contact us at LevelWithUsPodcast [at] gmail [dot] com!…

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Want A Strong Pelvic Floor During Menopause? Press play to learn how 51:13

1+ y ago51:13

51:13

In this episode of The Pause Pod, I'm chatting with Dr. Melanie Llanes, a pelvic health expert, about the critical role of pelvic floor health during perimenopause and menopause. Dr. Llanes discusses the "five S's" of pelvic floor function, the impact of hormonal changes, and common issues like urinary incontinence and pain during intercourse. She …

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Name That Tune - Nintendo 64 Edition (feat. Nintendrew!) 35:14

1+ y ago35:14

35:14

Nintendrew joins this week to play a good old-fashioned game of Name That Tune! As an avid collector of N64 games, how will he fare against some cruelly obscure tracks from that console's library? Let us know how well YOU do in the game as well! And thanks for listening!Nintendrew YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@Nintendrew?si=rKyOxHtOcY62cWJ8…

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A Transformative Approach to Nourishing Your Whole Life With Michelle Dwyer 1:05:12

1+ y ago1:05:12

1:05:12

In this episode of "The Pause Pod," I chat with Michelle Dwyer, a holistic health coach and certified nutrition consultant, about her journey into health coaching and her personal experiences with perimenopause. Michelle discusses the importance of considering the whole person for health and well-being, including routines and habits that support a …

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Balatro, Sifu, & More! | Backlog Brunch 24:53

1+ y ago24:53

24:53

We’re back with another "Backlog Brunch!" Today we discuss a whole litter of titles we haven’t had the chance to bring up on the show before, such as Balatro, Sifu, Coral Island, and River City Girls 2, among others! If you have upcoming indie game recommendations, or just want to reach out, feel free to contact us at LevelWithUsPodcast [at] gmail …

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Breaking Barriers: How Denise Pines is Redefining Menopause & Women's Health 56:06

1+ y ago56:06

56:06

In this podcast episode, Denise Pines, president of the Osteopathic Medical Board of California and founder of WisePause Wellness, discusses her advocacy for women's health during menopause. She shares her struggles with menopause, the creation of WisePause Wellness, and Tea Botanics to address menopausal symptoms. Denise emphasizes the need for mo…

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Penny's Big Breakaway | Review (+FREE GAME GIVEAWAY!) 30:24

1+ y ago30:24

30:24

The Sonic Mania team returns - and so does Ray Hargreaves! Today we discuss Penny’s Big Breakway, a skill-based 3D Platformer (with an emphasis on the skill) by the former developers of Sonic Mania. We hope you enjoy our thoughts, Jared being awarded his very first quick jab, as well as a free game giveaway! To find out how you can win a free copy …

1
Nostalgic Trivia Battle! 44:12

1+ y ago44:12

44:12

Today we reminisce about the good ol’ days of subpar Gameboy platformers, candy-themed web games, and driving each other crazy, with a nostalgic trivia battle! One advantage of us co-hosts being brothers is we know exactly what games each other has played, so we hope you enjoy 40+ minutes of us trying to stump each other, and going on plenty of nos…

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Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown | Review 34:22

1+ y ago34:22

34:22

Dallin returns to help us review the newest triple-A Metroidvania: Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown! There’s a lot to love about this game: Excellent Combat, a fun water level(?!), and an engaging mechanic new to the genre. Join us as we chat about this and much more, with only a tiiiiny rant about notification settings in this week’s episode of Le…

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Maintaining Muscle Mass During Menopause: Tina Tang's Guide To Strength Training 48:02

1+ y ago48:02

48:02

Menopause has its pros and cons. Many are happy to never have a period again. but it’s safe to say, no one wants to witness their muscles wane. In this episode of The Pause Pod, I chat with fitness trainer Tina Tang about the benefits of strength training for women over 40, particularly during menopause. Tina shares her journey from finance and jew…

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Rootless Harmony: The Seaweed Story of Hormone Health & Preserving Our Planet 1:20:56

2y ago1:20:56

1:20:56

Rootless: Where self-care meets planetary care. In the latest episode of The Pause Pod, I explore the wonders of seaweed as a source of hormonal health and well-being with Sachi Singh - founder and CEO of Rootless and seaweed's number one fan - and Chief of Staff, Dr. Gabby Pavelko They discuss the diverse types of seaweed and their nutrient-rich p…

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Name That Tune - 2023 Games Edition! 33:39

2y ago33:39

33:39

Surprise!! We’re back with one last little episode before the new year starts. It’s become a yearly tradition for Jared to spring a “Name That Tune” challenge on Marcus with absolutely no warning! Will you best him at it? Let us know! Image Source: https://www.polygon.com/23648669/best-video-games-2023 We’ll be taking a break for a while, but if yo…

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Laura Lacey's Nutritional Lifeline For Thriving Through Pregnancy, Peri and Post Menopause 53:42

2y ago53:42

53:42

With over 15 years of experience as a health and hormonal nutritionist, Laura Lacey enters The Pause Pod and sheds some light on the commonality between pregnancy, perimenopause and post-menopause. This episode features her personal experience and valuable knowledge on how nutrition can help manage symptoms like hot flashes and insulin resistance. …

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Our Top Games of the Year - 2023 30:12

2y ago30:12

30:12

It’s that time of year again, where we sit back and reflect on the frankly INSANE amount of games released in the past 12 months. These are each of our top 5 games of 2023 - and Jared’s #2 may SHOCK you! Also, listen for a surprise reveal at the end… Wishlist Rise of the Golden Idol HERE: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2716400/The_Rise_of_the_G…

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Born of Bread | Indie Game Spotlight (+FREE GAME GIVEAWAY) 17:24

2y ago17:24

17:24

Ahhh, do you smell that? Something special is ready to be taken out of the oven! We do really love a fresh-baked Paper Mario-inspired, don’t you? Take a listen to this episode to hear our thoughts on the game, including a few bread puns along the way! Win a FREE COPY of Born of Bread by entering our giveaway! https://sweepwidget.com/c/75462-b5ol7q1…

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Do This Petite Practice To Stay Rooted & Grounded 9:44

2y ago9:44

9:44

Today in this short episode, I'm exploring the power of intentional pauses in our fast-paced lives. I'll be delving into the world of petite pauses – those brief moments of stillness that have the incredible power to root, ground, and bring the body to a place of calm. Tune in and learn how this petite practice can help you navigate life's storms. …

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Beyond Hot Flashes: Menopause, Brain Health & Resilience with Sharon Fraser 42:59

2y ago42:59

42:59

The decline of estrogen and other important hormones during menopause causes more than hot flashes. Their decline can also have a significant impact on cognitive function. As a result, understanding the connection between menopause and the brain is crucial for our well-being. In today's episode, our featured health and wellness coach, Sharon Fraser…

1
SteamWorld Build | Review 5:19

2y ago5:19

5:19

The SteamWorld Series of games are well known for being exceptionally good - so good, in fact, that one of them is in my top 5 games of all time. So, with the newest entry about to come out, how well does the developer do as they try and tackle the “City-Builder” genre? Listen to find out in this mini-review of the game! You can purchase the game o…

1
Cobalt Core | Review 22:26

2y ago22:26

22:26

Deckbuilding! In! SPACE! We have played the new indie title Cobalt Core and we love its single-axis combat system and its charming writing. This week we review the game with all our regular segments, with only a slight amount of spoiler-censorship at the end. You can purchase the game HERE - Steam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2179850/Cobalt_…

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Headbangers: Rhythm Royale | First Impressions 16:30

2y ago16:30

16:30

Welcome to the show where, at least this week, we talk about pigeons and make obnoxious noises! We got our hands on the new “Rhythm Royale” game, Headbangers! Listen to our overall thoughts on the game, and when you’re done you can enter our giveaway for a FREE copy of the game by clicking HERE: https://sweepwidget.com/c/74475-7z6kp5gq You can also…

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Shift Happens: Menopause and Career Changes With Trae Bodge 55:21

2y ago55:21

55:21

In this podcast episode, shopping expert, Trae Bodge explores the often-overlooked intersection of menopause and career changes. She shares personal experiences and insights, discussing the challenges of menopausal symptoms, self-care strategies, and the power of "embracing her" - the person you are becoming. You will gain valuable insights and ins…

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Super Mario TRIVIA CHALLENGE (& thoughts on Super Mario Wonder!) 35:47

2y ago35:47

35:47

Mamma Mia! Mario Wonder just came out, which means it’s time to flex our knowledge of the series with a little trivia challenge! Stick around to the end to hear our thoughts on Wonder, as well as a… semi-decent Mario impression. Check out Jared’s GG profile HERE: https://ggapp.io/jkrgamer If you have indie recommendations, or just want to reach out…

1
Moonstone Island | Indie Game Spotlight 17:07

2y ago17:07

17:07

Take a little farm-sim, mix it with creature collecting, top it off with a little deck building, and you get the new indie title Moonstone Island! This week we discuss this game’s multiple facets, from its card-based combat to how low your chances of flirting are (in the game, AND real life!). Purchase Moonstone Island here! https://store.steampowe…

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Sea of Stars | Review 25:27

2y ago25:27

25:27

It seemed impossible, but Sea of Stars somehow flipped the script and made JRPGs fun. This week we discuss the game’s fantastic combat design & visuals, do a cooking show, and correct ourselves at the last possible second. Purchase Sea of Stars here! Switch: https://www.nintendo.com/us/store/products/sea-of-stars-switch/ Steam: https://store.steamp…