Ideas, Speakers & Lectures

The story of the Aspen Institute began in 1945, when Chicago businessman Walter Paepcke and his wife, Elizabeth, visited Aspen, Colorado, and were inspired by its natural beauty and potential as a gathering place for artists, academics, leaders, and musicians to explore the deeper values of society and culture. Their vision sparked what became known as the Aspen Idea: the belief that nurturing mind, body, and spirit leads to human flourishing. More than 75 years later, that vision continues through Aspen Community Programs, which offer locals and visitors year-round opportunities for civil dialogue, intellectual exploration, and meaningful connection. Designed for both adults and teens, the programs foster curiosity and conversation around the ideas shaping today’s world. Committed to accessibility and inclusion, Aspen Community Programs provide scholarships and affordable ticketing to ensure broad participation. Whether attending in person, tuning in online, or supporting the scholarship fund, audiences are invited to take part in this ongoing exchange of ideas.

Aspen Institute Community Programs: The New Menopause: Navigating Your Path Through Hormonal Change with Purpose, Power, and Facts

Aspen Public Radio

Published June 13, 2025 at 12:45 PM MDT

Featuring Dr. Mary Claire Haver, board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist and author of “The New Menopause,” in conversation with Soledad Hurst, philanthropist and former on-air reporter/anchor for Bloomberg TV. Drawing from the latest scientific research and insights from her book, Dr. Haver explores the complex and often misunderstood transition of perimenopause and menopause. She discusses the profound effects of hormonal shifts on metabolism, heart health, brain function, bone density, and overall well-being. With a focus on evidence-based strategies, she offers practical guidance on nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle choices that empower women to take control of their health and embrace this stage of life with confidence and vitality. Presented as part of the Advancing Women’s Health Series.

Dr. Mary Claire Haver, MD, FACOG, CMP is a board-certified Obstetrician and Gynecologist who graduated from Louisiana State University Medical Center and completed her residency at the University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB). She is also a Certified Culinary Medicine Specialist and a Menopause Society Certified Menopause Practitioner from The Menopause Society. In 2021, she established Mary Claire Wellness, a clinic dedicated to providing comprehensive care for menopausal patients. In 2023, she launched ThePauseLife.com as a trusted resource for menopausal women worldwide. With over 4 million followers on social media, Dr. Haver is recognized as a thought leader and author who provides valuable advice for women going through different stages of menopause. She aims to “demystify menopause” and promote self-advocacy for women’s health. This led her to publish, The New Menopause, which is now a #1 New York Times Bestseller.

Soledad Hurst is a philanthropist who lives full-time in Aspen. A graduate of the Yale Law School, with a psychology degree from University of Oregon (Summa Cum Laude), Hurst started her career as a corporate lawyer in New York City at Davis Polk & Wardwell. She shifted to investment banking at Allen & Company and ultimately became an on-air television reporter/anchor covering the NASDAQ and New York Stock Exchange for Bloomberg Television. Soledad has served on the boards of numerous organizations, including The Children’s Hospital of Colorado, American Hospital of Paris Foundation, FINCA International, Roundabout Theater, Theatre Aspen, Meridian International, Summit 54 and Aspen Country Day School, among others.

The Advancing Women’s Health Series explores key topics in women’s health and well-being through engaging conversations with leading medical and wellness experts. The series highlights practical strategies for improving health outcomes and covers a wide range of subjects, including hormonal health, prevention, mobility, nutrition, and the latest innovations in integrative and precision medicine aimed at supporting longevity and overall vitality.