Real Menopause Talk: Recent Episodes
Real Menopause Talk
Real Menopause Talk is an opportunity for every woman (and man too) to share and hear stories about real life experiences of Peri to Post Menopause and the impact it has on all life has to offer. Real Menopause Talk is also a platform for the best resources available so women no longer have to do their own research; they can find solutions and support that suit them, from HRT to diet advice from acupuncture to bonafide supplements. It is a resource in itself as simply being part of a trusting, safe community can improve symptoms. Sometimes just knowing you are not the only one, is a step in the right direction.
Fiona Clark is a massively well-respected voice in the Menopause world. She is a journalist and health writer, now with more than 20 years' experience in writing for publications that go to medical practitioners as well as consumers.
She is also the founder of Harley Street Emporium, a practice that focuses on evidence-based information for women in menopause and health in general.
Her new book, 'Menowars' grabbed me by the title because I discovered it at the exact time where I had had enough of the division in the Menospace. When I started the podcast in October 2021, it was a welcoming, 'come on board and join us all to help one another' kind of a vibe. Over the past 5 years it has split, sometimes quite viciously, into exclusive camps.
Just opening Menowars, the subheading of 'Why menopause's moment has gone wrong & how you can navigate your way through it' had me hooked.
Today, Fiona and I discuss ( and laugh about) the complexities surrounding menopause, including the need for better education and awareness among healthcare professionals and the public. We explore the emotional and physical challenges women face during this transition, the importance of understanding heart health specific to women, and the necessity of open conversations about women's health issues. Fiona shares her personal experiences (also with some hilarity!) with healthcare and emphasises the need for advocacy and better resources for women navigating menopause.
00:00Introduction to Menopause and Its Challenges
05:22The Need for Education and Awareness
10:51Understanding Menopause Guidelines and Research
16:38Heart Health and Women: A Critical Discussion
22:03Personal Experiences with Healthcare
27:45Mental Health and the Emotional Journey of Menopause
33:12The Importance of Open Conversations
38:58Conclusion and Resources for Women
You can find Fiona on IG @fiona_clark_writes and https://mref.uk
and you can find Menowars here: MENOWARS
Drop me a line to discover more about my coaching - there are only 2 spots available for 2025 in my Strength, Nutrition & Menopause Coaching so get in touch fast.
hatty@realmenopausetalk.com
Thank-you for listening, I look forward to seeing you in the next episode.
Lara Briden has a refreshingly honest approach to menopause and all that that encompasses. For me, she has always been a person to offer solid, genuine advice based on knowledge and experience so I was delighted when she agreed to join me on the podcast. You are not broken, you are not deficient and it is not your fault. This is a very important and powerful message that I wish all women could hear from even before Perimenopause all the way through to Post Menopause... and probably for life in general. We cover a vast range of highly relevant and current topics in our conversation including insulin resistance, what metabolism really means, the role of cortisol (the real role!), testosterone for women, HRT and what menopause even is now! Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Women's Health and Menstrual Cycle 02:48 Understanding Female Physiology and Hormonal Differences 05:24 The Role of Cortisol in Women's Health 08:10 Navigating Insulin Resistance and Its Implications 11:11 The Impact of Hormones on Weight Gain 13:51 Addressing Insulin Resistance: Symptoms and Solutions 16:41 Metabolism Myths and Realities 19:21 The Importance of Blood Markers in Health Assessment 22:16 Reversing Insulin Resistance and Improving Health 32:11 Understanding Health Markers 32:43 The Progesterone-Cortisol Connection 35:16 Testosterone's Role in Women's Health 36:33 Navigating Hormonal Replacement Therapy 39:14 Clarifying Menopause Terminology 42:36 Experiences with Hormonal Treatments 49:36 Evolutionary Perspectives on Menopause 52:44 Living Well Through Menopause 56:28 Final Thoughts and Advice You can find Lara at https://larabriden.com and on all platforms as Lara Briden. If you have been feeling flat, low and perhaps a bit lost then drop me a line to rediscover your zest and power. My Life and Performance Coaching appoinments are now open. The Real Menopause Method (strength and nutrition coaching for women) remains alive and well and has 2 slots left for this current season. You can reach me here: https://realmenopausetalk.com and at hatty@realmenopausetalk.com I look forward to hearing from you xoxo.
Sam Fitzgibbons and I met over Instagram through the weird and wonderful web of algorithms. For some intangible reason, I was instantly drawn to her and once we started actually talking, it was clear why.
Sam is a Spiritual Shadow Coach. I'll let her explain what that means in this episode. What I will tell you is that she is so comfortable to be with, she imparts knowledge in a very down-to-earth manner and what she says simply makes sense.
Perimenopause has a way of shining a light on all the aspects of ourselves that we really need to address - past trauma, shame, the stories we have created for ourselves, our sense of self - and some of these can often bring up more questions than we began with. Who am I? What do I do next? How do I find my purpose? All of which are questions very close to my own heart and ones I struggled with for a while too. I am happy to say, there are answers to all of these and when you get clear on them, you feel like a brand new person - actually, that's not quite accurate: you feel like yourself, just gleaming bright and brilliant as you were meant to be.
Sam and I discuss HRT, how issues can show up, where to begin, what used to work and what works now and so much more.
Look Sam up, @theshadowandtheself Unfu*k Menopause
And get in touch with me about Performance & Life Coaching to get unstuck and live life in true technicolour. hatty@realmenopausetalk.com
Thank you for listening! I look forward to seeing you in the next episode. xoxo
Today’s episode is something I have been thinking about for quite a while.
I never had a plan to do a solo episode but now feels like the right time.
Stay tuned until the end for a limited-time-only freebie offer! I decided it was time to share a bit of my own self and life through my experience of parenting, divorce, career transitions, competing as a bodybuilder, resilience and health challenges, particularly focusing on recent changes and strategies that have had a profoundly positive impact.
I share a little of all of the 'squiggles' I have gone through, the impact of societal expectations coupled with the importance of self-acceptance and how I have finally achieved this and feel genuinely healthy. I share my coaching philosophy, emphasising nutrition, personal growth, and the need for being physically, emotionally and energetically nourished in midlife.
The episode concludes with my latest update - tune in for details - as a Life and Performance Coach, and an invitation to engage with my new direction.
"I knew I had to make a choice."
"I am now at peace with all my messes."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Real Menopause Talk & today's solo episode
02:56 Navigating Life's Challenges: Divorce and Motherhood
06:07 Career Changes
07:48 Bodybuilding: Identity, Health & Purpose
10:31 Understanding Perimenopause: Personal Insights
13:25 The Role of Nutrition and HRT in Wellbeing
16:04 Finding Purpose and Authenticity in Midlife
18:44 Embracing Non-Linear Life Paths
21:00 The Importance of Connection and Community
23:37 Energies, alignment, integrity, authenticity and nourishment
26:09 Conclusion: Values and Future Directions
27:00 Being a Life and Performance Coach
For all feedback and questions and application for today's giveaway, please drop me a line: hatty@realmenopausetalk.com
I can't wait to hear from you.
Gabriel Weston is an award-winning writer, tv broadcaster, surgeon, mother of four and, I am fortunate to add, great friend. Her trailblazing medical memoir, 'Direct Red' was released to critical acclaim 15 years ago; she returns now with a profound and provocative journey through the human body: Alive, An Alternative Anatomy. In today's conversation, Gabriel shares her insights life as a whole. We meander through so many topics that apply to our lives as women in our fifties with teenage kids. She shares how she is currently navigating midlife, of course we talk about her experiences of menopause and paint a very honest picture of modern motherhood. The importance of self-care is not something that is lost on Gabriel and hearing her talk about it as a woman and as a surgeon is fascinating.
She discusses her journey as a surgeon and author, emphasizing the need for women to embrace their bodies and the changes that come with ageing whilst reflecting on her personal experiences with vulnerability and the lessons learned through her family's challenges.
Key Moments * Menopause can profoundly affect emotional stability. * Adventures in midlife are still possible and fulfilling. * Yoga has been a significant tool for self-care. * Motherhood brings both challenges and a sense of independence. * Understanding the body requires a connection to its humanity. * Personal experiences shape our views on vulnerability. * Ageing can be embraced as a beautiful phase of life. * Connection to oneself is crucial for well-being. * Women are encouraged to redefine their narratives around ageing. * Future endeavours can be exciting and full of potential.
Chapters 00:00Introduction and Background 02:55Adventures in Midlife 05:44Navigating Menopause 08:42The Role of Yoga and Self-Care 11:38Motherhood and Independence 14:36The Journey of Understanding the Body 17:27The Intersection of Anatomy and Humanity 20:30Personal Experiences with Vulnerability 23:03The Importance of Connection 26:10Reflections on Aging and Self-Acceptance 29:09Looking Ahead: Future Endeavors You can find Gabriel on IG https://www.instagram.com/gabrielwestonalive/ and get her brilliant book, 'Alive - An Alternative Anatomy' at all good book stores both in person and online. I love hearing your feedback, stories and comments - and yes, rants are welcome! Do drop me a line. And of course, contact me via DM or good old fashioned email hatty@realmenopausetalk.com to talk about my personal 1:1 coaching so that you can excel at work and in life. I am excited to see what you can do.
Tanith Carey is an award-winning writer, journalist and trained Gestalt Phsycotherapist. You may have heard of Anhedonia but be a little hazy on what it really means - who better to talk to about it than someone who has written an entire book explaining the intricacies of this prevalent condition. In this conversation, we delve into the concept of anhedonia, particularly in the context of women experiencing menopause. She shares her personal journey of feeling joyless despite having a fulfilling life and explains the physiological and psychological factors contributing to this state. Our discussion explores the impact of hormonal changes, the role of cortisol, and the importance of recognizing anhedonia as a legitimate experience. Tanith offers strategies for reclaiming joy, emphasizing the need for awareness, intentionality, and building a personal toolkit for happiness. Key Points * Anhedonia is increasingly recognized as a significant issue, especially for women in menopause. * Hormonal changes during menopause can lead to feelings of joylessness and anxiety. * Cortisol levels can rise due to modern stressors, impacting overall well-being. * Dopamine plays a crucial role in anticipation and seeking joy. * Recognizing anhedonia is essential for addressing emotional numbness. * Neurodiverse individuals may experience heightened feelings of anhedonia due to cognitive exhaustion. * Building a toolkit for joy involves intentional actions and awareness of small moments of happiness. * Somatic therapy can help address emotional disconnection and promote healing. * Diet and gut health are linked to emotional well-being and serotonin production. * Communication with loved ones about feelings of blah can foster understanding and support.
Chapters 00:00Introduction and Overview of Anhedonia 01:26Tanith Carey's Background and Journey 04:09Understanding Anhedonia and Its Impact 06:58The Role of Hormones and Stress 09:43Cortisol and Modern Life 12:45Recognizing Anhedonia vs. Depression 15:19Anhedonia in Neurodiverse Individuals 15:50Understanding Anhedonia and ADHD 17:19The Importance of Naming Emotions 18:48Exploring the Gut-Brain Connection 20:14The Impact of Illness on Mental Health 21:30Research Insights on Joy and Reward 23:08The Role of Nature in Well-Being 24:54Practical Tips for Cultivating Joy 26:23Behavioral Activation and Intentional Happiness 28:40Communicating Feelings in Relationships You can find Tanith on Instagram @tanithcarey or @tanithcareytherapy and her book Feeling Blah is out now wherever you choose to get your books - I highly recommend! Who do you know who wants to rediscover their zest in midlife and beyond? Drop me a line hatty@realmenopausetalk.com to find out about my Real Menopause Method and how you, or your friend, can look great and feel great , build strength and love you life. Only a few spaces available so get in touch!
Many of you will know The Real Slim Sherri from Instagram and TikTok - she is well known for her no- holds barred, unfiltered truths around growing up in the 70's and 80's, midlife, life as a Gen X woman and menopause.
I have loved her page ever since I discovered it and so was thrilled, (I mean so thrilled!) when she was booked to be a guest on the podcast. And what a way to open Season 7!
In this engaging conversation, Sherri Dindal - her real name - shares her journey through midlife, discussing the challenges and triumphs of menopause, the importance of humor in healing, and her mission to empower women. She reflects on her upbringing, career changes, and the creation of her wellness brand, Wholesome Hippie, which focuses on natural health products. Sherri emphasizes the significance of community and support for women navigating this phase of life, and she shares insights on parenting in midlife, highlighting the unique challenges and joys of raising children while experiencing personal growth. All, of course, with a good dash of humour thrown in.
00:00Introduction and Connection 01:10Growing Up Gen X: A Journey Through Childhood 03:07Career Path: From Law Enforcement to Content Creation 05:18Navigating Midlife: The Impact of Menopause 07:10The Power of Humor in Addressing Serious Topics 09:32Empowering Women: Embracing Authenticity in Midlife 11:46Raising the Next Generation: Lessons Learned 13:58Reflections on Motherhood and Personal Growth 17:46Navigating Parenting in a Digital Age 20:45The Challenges of Parenting Teens 22:45The Unexpected Journey into Comedy 29:40Embracing Life After 50 30:18Health and Wellness: The Wholesome Hippie Journey 33:36Building a Wellness Brand from Personal Experience 36:24Innovative Solutions for Anxiety and Sleep 38:49Natural Alternatives for Hormonal Balance 41:53Aging Gracefully and Mindfully 43:37Final Thoughts and Recommendations Here are all the links to Sherri https://www.instagram.com/wholesomehippynaturals/ https://www.facebook.com/wholesomehippynaturals https://www.tiktok.com/@WHOLESOMEHIPPYNATURALS https://www.tiktok.com/@therealslimsherri https://www.instagram.com/therealslimsherri https://www.facebook.com/sherri.dindal And you can find me here: https://realmenopausetalk.com https://www.instagram.com/realmenopausetalk/ or drop me a line hatty@realmenopausetalk.com
Jenni Smith and Kay Walsh are a bright, colourful breath of fresh air.
In today's conversation, Jenni and Kay share how they got into sewing, what they have done with this connection, their experiences with perimenopause and menopause (of course!) and... wait for it... how their passion takes them to Hawaii. Yes, they are in fact globe trotting quilt makers and dress makers. We discuss how sewing is something of a therapeutic outlet, how we need to rekindle our creativity in midlife and how they actively empower other women through craft. The conversation highlights the importance of community, open dialogue about women's health issues, and the need to role model self care. There is a real joy that comes from creating something unique and they have given me real food for thought about alternative ways to combat stress. "Don't be scared, just get stuck in." Takeaways: * Sewing can be a therapeutic outlet for mental health. * Motherhood often leads to a loss of personal identity. * Perimenopause symptoms can be subtle and varied. * Community support is crucial during life transitions. * Open conversations about menopause can reduce stigma. * Sewing fosters creativity and provides a sense of accomplishment. * Exercise and routine can help manage menopause symptoms. * HRT can alleviate anxiety and other symptoms of menopause. * Empowerment comes from sharing experiences with others. * Creating a supportive environment encourages women to learn new skills. Creativity can be a powerful form of self-care. * Sewing fosters community and connection among diverse individuals. * Inspiring younger generations to embrace crafting is essential. * Upcycling allows for personal expression and environmental awareness. * Overcoming the fear of failure is key to unlocking creativity. * Sharing projects can build joy and community spirit. * The experience of menopause can be enriched by creative pursuits. * Everyone has the potential to be creative, regardless of past experiences. * Building confidence in sewing starts with small, manageable projects. * Connecting with others through shared interests can lead to lasting friendships.
00:00 Introduction and Backgrounds 06:04 Navigating Motherhood and Identity 12:02 Understanding Perimenopause and Menopause 17:54 Sewing as a Therapeutic Outlet 19:54 The Power of Creativity and Community 21:59 Inspiring the Next Generation 25:02 Embracing Upcycling and Personal Expression 28:05 Overcoming Creative Fears 29:59 Building Joy Through Connection 32:09 Future Projects and Aspirations 35:01 Wisdom from the Journey of Menopause You can find Jenni and Kay on IG @jenniandkaycreate or on their website and their inspiringly creative book, Menopause Makes is out on March 14th 2025.
You can always reach me by email hatty@realmenopausetalk.com or here https://realmenopausetalk.com
In this engaging conversation, Carol King shares her ride through perimenopause, the need for open conversations about women's health and her rise to TikTok fame as THE Menopause Auntie. She started experiencing extreme fainting episodes which understandably concerned her and her family. Moving to Barbados, from the UK, she found limited knowledge or understanding of what could be happening. She emphasizes the significance of lifestyle changes, finding joy, and reclaiming one's identity during this transformative phase of life. Carol also highlights her efforts to create community resources and her upcoming book that aims to educate and empower women navigating menopause through humour. * Carol King moved to Barbados and embraced a new life. * Perimenopause symptoms can start much earlier than expected. * Women often face challenges in getting their symptoms taken seriously. * Humor can be a powerful tool in coping with menopause. * Creating a supportive community is essential for women. * Lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, can significantly improve health. * Finding joy in daily life is crucial for mental well-being. * Reclaiming one's identity is important during midlife transitions. * Education and open conversations about menopause are vital. * Carol's book aims to provide accessible information on menopause with humour.
- "Women want to have the conversation."
- "Laughter is medicine."
- "I intentionally look for joy."
Chapters 02:00 Introduction to Carol King 04:00 Understanding Perimenopause 06:59 The Journey of Discovery 09:59 The Importance of Conversation 13:03 Using Humor to Cope 15:53 Finding Solutions and Support 19:03 Lifestyle Changes for Better Health 21:55 The Role of Joy in Life 24:56 Reclaiming Identity and Purpose 28:11 Creating Community and Resources 30:53 The Launch of a Book 33:54 Final Thoughts and Advice 'Are You There God, It's Me In Menopause' is out on February 18th, 2025 at all good bookstores and online. You can enjoy Carol's content @menopause101 on IG & TikTok and YouTube! If you would like to speak to me about joining The Real Menopause Method, drop me an email hatty@realmenopausetalk.com to book a call. There is more information on the website https://realmenopausetalk.com Spaces are limited and tend to book up fast, so please get in touch and I look forward to talking to you.
In our conversation today, Nicki shares her personal journey with hormonal health, detailing her struggles with perimenopause and the lack of information available at the time. She emphasises the importance of understanding hormonal changes, especially during menopause and post-menopause, and discusses the new challenges women face in their 50s. She highlights the significance of community, connection, and mental health in aging, as well as the need for proper nutrition and rest. Nicki encourages women to embrace this stage of life as an opportunity for growth and self-care, rather than viewing it as an end and gives us details on how to do just this. Takeaways * Nicki's journey into hormonal health began in her early 40s. * She experienced exhaustion and brain fog, leading her to seek help. * Her father, a hormone doctor, educated her about perimenopause. * Nicki emphasizes the importance of lifestyle changes for hormonal balance. * Post-menopause brings new challenges, including health risks and emotional well-being. * Community and connection are vital for mental health as we age. * Rest is crucial for managing stress and overall health. * Nutrition plays a key role in aging well and managing symptoms. * Women should focus on self-care and personal fulfillment post-retirement. * Nicki's new book addresses life after menopause and offers guidance.
"This can't be it, you know, I've got to do this."
06:21 Nicki's Journey and the Importance of Hormone Balance 13:19 Changing the Perception of Aging 18:05 Building Connections and Community 26:01 The Importance of Rest and Self-Care 31:23 Finding Your Nutrition Plan 35:15 Embracing the Opportunities of Post-Menopause You can find Nicki at https://happyhormonesforlife.com and on IG @happyhormonesforlife and her books are available in all good book retail outlets NOW :-) Feel free to get in touch about anything nutrition, training and Menopause related at hatty@realmenopausetalk.com and I will get back to you as soon as I can. Thank-you for listening and I look forward to seeing you in the next episode.
Nikkiey Stott, founder of Warrior Babe, shares her journey from growing up in a divorced family to becoming a successful bodybuilder and fitness coach. She discusses the challenges women face during menopause and how her company helps them through nutrition, strength training, and mindset shifts. Nikkiey emphasizes the importance of nourishing the body with the right food and debunking the myth of getting bulky from lifting weights. She encourages women to focus on self-discipline rather than relying on motivation and to keep the promises they make to themselves. Nikkiey's ultimate goal is to empower women to achieve their fitness goals and live a healthy, balanced life.
Takeaways:
- Nourishing the body with the right food is key to overall health and achieving fitness goals.
- Strength training is essential for building lean muscle, boosting metabolism, and improving bone density.
- Developing self-discipline is more important than relying on motivation to stay consistent with fitness and nutrition.
- Women should focus on increasing their protein intake to support muscle growth and hormonal balance.
- Overcoming the fear of getting bulky from lifting weights and embracing the benefits of strength training is crucial for women's health and longevity.
00:00Introduction and Background 03:58Dealing with a Cease and Desist and Rebranding 06:18Preparing for Perimenopause and Menopause 08:54The Importance of Rest and Overcoming Guilt 09:31Challenges Faced by Women in Menopause and How to Overcome Them 14:47Creating a Supportive All-Female Community 19:05Changing the Narrative Around Food and Body Image 25:45Addressing the Fear of Getting Bulky from Lifting Weights 29:45Starting from Scratch: Nutrition, Strength Training, and Mindset 35:04The Power of Self-Discipline in Achieving Goals You can find Nikkiey at https://warriorbabe.com/ If you have any questions about nutrition, training, or of course Menopause, please reach out as it is always a pleasure to hear from you. hatty@realmenopausetalk.com Thanks for listening and I look forward to seeing you in the next episode. xoxo
Leslie Kenny reversed her autoimmune diseases and rejuvenated her biological age, literally saving herself from a 5 year prognosis in her thirties. Here, she discusses her process and the 12 hallmarks of ageing, she shares her experience with rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, her decision to take control of her health, and the treatments that led to her remission.
Leslie also talks about her experience with perimenopause and menopause and the importance of managing cortisol and progesterone levels. She introduces the 12 hallmarks of ageing, including stem cell dysfunction, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation, impaired autophagy, and more.
She highlights the role of spermidine in rejuvenating senescent immune cells. Spermidine, a compound found in plants and semen, has the ability to inhibit nine out of 12 hallmarks of ageing. It is crucial for the survival and growth of the next generation, present in breast milk and semen. As we age, our ability to produce spermidine decreases, making it important to obtain it from our diet. Lifestyle choices, such as a diet rich in prebiotic fibre from plants, can increase the production of spermidine in our bodies. Spermidine supplementation has been shown to promote hair growth, improve sleep, enhance heart health, and activate autophagy, a process that removes dysfunctional cells and mitochondria.
You can find Leslie at https://oxfordhealthspan.com/ and use code HATTY15 for a 15% discount on Primeadine.
Feel free to reach out and drop me a line with any questions, comments or feedback as I always love to hear from you: hatty@realmenopausetalk.com
00:00Introduction and Background 02:18Diagnosis and Taking Control of Health 06:24Navigating Perimenopause and Menopause 08:07Understanding the 12 Hallmarks of Aging 21:26The Importance of Spermidine in Reproduction and Gut Health 23:12The Role of Diet and Lifestyle in Spermidine Production 35:57Activating Autophagy with Spermidine
With less than 2,000 signatures needed to make the total 200,000, I felt it was a great opportunity to re-release Diane's Episode for any of you who may have missed it and to get those signature numbers up! I will leave the link right here to sign the petition - please do if you haven't already .
#MakeMenopauseMatter Diane is the OG Menopause Warrior. After her own incapacitating experience of Menopause, she decided that nobody should ever have to go through what she and her loved ones had to endure. From this, MenopauseSupport and the MakeMenopauseMatter campaign were born. In this episode, she tells her story and all I shall say at this point is, thank goodness for her dogs and her husband Martin. Diane and her team at Menopause Support work tirelessly to make the changes she wants to see and, to date, the MakeMenopauseMatter campaign has close on 200,000 signatures. As well as educating and changing the world for the better, she reminds us to look at ourselves, “Have you spent your whole life prioritising other people? Maybe you should move yourself up the list a little more. This can be a wonderful time of transition and transformation and is full of Opportunity.” You can find Diane, and please take a moment to SIGN & SHARE the petition at https://menopausesupport.co.uk and here: https://www.change.org/p/make-menopause-matter-in-healthcare-the-workplace-and-education-makemenopausematter on IG @dianedanzebrink
The word ‘menopause’ was not used in Donna’s household growing up, even when her mother underwent a hysterectomy. But Donna knew. Donna Klassen, co-founder of Let's Talk Menopause, dedicates herself to providing a platform that educates, destigmatizes, and offers vital community support surrounding menopause.
She and I may have different experiences of Menopause but we both come at it with the same heart and a desire to ensure nobody feels isolated or alone during this deeply nuanced life transition.
Diagnosed with estrogen-positive breast cancer at 52, Donna's journey into postmenopause was accelerated following a double mastectomy and an oophorectomy. As she grappled with symptoms like hot flashes and brain fog, she was met with a notable absence of guidance from her medical community. Drawing from her tenure as a clinician and director at The Motherhood Center of New York, where she witnessed the transformative power of community in areas like infertility and postpartum depression, Donna is passionate about championing menopause and ensuring it's understood and supported by all.
In this episode we discuss attitudes, progress and legislation in the US compared to the UK just as the bill for the Menopause Research and Equity Act 2023 was going to Congress.
Donna is all about the very simple but powerful, ‘and’. Nothing need be one or the other, it can be many things and this is especially true when it comes to menopause symptoms and, in fact, this whole life phase which is a time of vulnerability and opportunity. She encourages us all to put ourselves out there and ‘Go Big!’
You can find Donna on the website and on social media as @letstalkmenopause and I believe even at the time of release, you can still fill out a form HERE that allows you to write directly to your member of Congress and leads to the website letstalkmenopause.org
You can handpick your Menopause Therapist right HERE
When I started this podcast, I was thinking of women of a similar age to me who were going through the Menopause Transition. I soon learned there are many types of Menopause, all equally significant and rarely spoken about. The list includes surgical menopause, early menopause, premature menopause and trans menopause.
Today, I have the privilege of being able to share a trans male menopause story.
Tate Smith is an award-winning trans activist, consultant, and speaker, passionate about trans male visibility, educating others and debunking common myths surrounding trans people. Tate's accolades include being named one of Attitude Magazine's 10 LGBTQ+ Trailblazers To Watch Out For In The Future, and in 2022 he was selected as a LinkedIn Top Voice, and nominated for PinkNews' Community Role Model.
I was so delighted to meet Tate to hear his deeply personal, often challenging experience which he tells with candour, charm and humour, no mean feat given the level of vulnerability he opens himself up to. There are so many avenues we could have ventured down as there is so much to talk about - isn't there always?! We had to discuss testosterone and its effects - bear in mind here Tate's end game but also listen out for the potential benefits - we also touch on male privilege and insights he has gained having presented female for 19 years and now living as his true, male self.
His menopause symptoms will be familiar to many of you and, as he says, "we're all in this together".
You can find Tate as @tatemichaelsmith on IG, and Linked In and at https://tatesmith.uk
Go to Real Menopause Therapy HERE
I hope you have a peaceful and joyful holiday period and I look forward to seeing you in 2024.
Julian wants to bring Menopause out of the darkness and he's well placed to do so as founder of Propaganda Agency and chair of Gen M.
We start our conversation with some of Julian's working background because, whilst interesting in its own right, it gives some context to how and why he does what he does today in the 'Menosphere'. We get a little bit of the history of make-up as we know it today, his former company Illamasqua and I tell you, he is a visionary.
It's easy for those of us who are in this space to simply demand the highest quality solutions to Menopause symptoms but Julian offers an alternative perspective and one that really got me thinking. We still need to reach so many millions of women who remain unaware of what is happening to them in Perimenopause and some of them are scared. Awareness must come first. Of course none of us want to be taken for a ride as a consumer but his view is good food for thought.
Julian shares with us how he became such a champion of the underdog that is Menopause and the real emotional trigger that encouraged him along this path. It is a story which many of you may find deeply upsetting and is one that you will know if you have heard of David Salmon. It is truly heartbreaking and still needs to be told so nobody else may suffer the same.
Julian talks about how men can help, how brands are innately powerful in our society and how women don't need to be told what to do: "A Choice. That's what women need, a choice."
You can find Julian @Julian Kynaston on Linked In
Click here for Real Menopause Therapy Sign Up Here For Free
This is possibly one of the most important episodes yet because of the information, passion, honesty and balance that Catherine offers.
Catherine initially built her career in finance, working for an investment bank. When she 'met' Perimenopause, she soon realised that brain fog had no place in her life as she needed to be switched on at all times and function at a high level. She began to puzzle out what was going on.
Once she realised what was happening and that it was normal, it was a huge relief and opened up the headspace to investigate how to support herself on a practical level, through this transitional time. This ultimately fuelled her passion to bring awareness to Menopause today and in essence, this is why and how this podcast began in the first place: to help women with their personal puzzle and to bring relief, knowing their experience is normal and shared by many others.
Catherine talks sense, real sense about symptom management as well as the broader picture of respecting one another's freedom of choice. And yes, we even discuss the recent NICE guidelines on CBT and HRT - we dare to go there! :-)
"There's no magic bullet to Menopause because of the individual nature of the experience."
Catherine O’Keeffe is a Menopause Workplace Consultant, founder of Wellness Warrior, and creator of the Menopause Success Summit. Catherine is the author of the best seller All you need to know about menopause. She helps organisations implement a comprehensive menopause strategy that leads to meaningful change. She’s helped hundreds of companies choose support over silence including Workday International, StateStreet, Department of Health, Sainsburys, and Microsoft. Catherine is on a mission to shatter the menopause taboo, for good.
You can find @Catherine O'Keeffe on LI and @wellnesswarrior.ie on IG
Access Real Menopause Therapy HERE
Jodie Patterson sees herself as a Starfish - she has the ability to stretch far and wide and reach people as she does so. At 53, she has perfected the art through many careers, self-grown businesses, 5 children (currently spanning 30 - 14 years of age), volunteer work, art and a vibrant life of travel and friendships.
Jodie is a Native New Yorker who grew up on the Upper West Side in a creative neighbourhood and an actively Black family. She comes from a long line of activists and entrepreneurs and continues this lineage with many successes along the way, clearly drawn towards women with strong voices who inspire, she embodies these qualities too.
'The Bold World' is one of the most striking and memorable books I have ever read. I cried, I laughed, I resonated and learned. It is Jodie's story of her life so far and the transformation of her family both immediate and extended. When her son, Penelope, came to her aged 2 and said, "Mama, I'm not a girl. I am a boy." it blew her world wide open. In this book, she shares just how. I am not letting go of my own copy but I am giving it out to everyone I know and you should too.
This episode is not all about Menopause. It is about identity, creativity, community, freedom, curiosity, transition and transformation and how all of it is an inside job,
"We can be who we are from the inside out."
You can find Jodie on IG @jodiepatterson and https://jodiepatterson.com and you can find "The Bold World" wherever you choose to get your books. If you are in the UK, you may have to be a little more patient for it to arrive but it is well worth the wait :-)
Selene Yeager is an elite athlete who started professionally competing at 40. She's also a Health & fitness writer who lives what she writes as a NASM certified trainer, USA Cycling coach, Pn1 certified nutrition coach, pro licensed off-road racer, and All-American Ironman triathlete and content creator for Feisty Media.
Selene is grounded and into her own zone and power, Post Menopause. But it didn't start off like that. Perimenopause was a deeply confusing time to her because, like so many of us, it caught her unaware, She lost muscle seemingly overnight, her joints started aching like never before and her sleep became unusually erratic. She is keen to share as much information about this time of life as possible and to make sure that we all do the same in order to take the shock, confusion and fear out of it. We must share all the information from night sweats to vaginal dryness and everything in between.
In this episode we discuss the changing landscape of elite endurance sports - spoiler alert: more mature women are competing and they're winning! We talk about new studies emerging on women that are relevant to hormonal health, muscle health and brain health and one that has just dropped on low carb availability: could you be sensitive to carbohydrate deprivation? Is intermittent fasting or low-carb dieting not feeling good to you? And why should we exercise after all?
You can find Selene on IG @FitChick3, on https://seleneyeager.contently.com and if you haven't found it yet - listen to Hit Play Not Pause, you're in for a treat.
Dr Colette Haydon oozes French charm and is wonderfully frank and easy to talk to. She gives real, raw insights into how menopause was for her and feels it is crucial to be honest with those who ask - especially when it comes to the question, "How long does it last?"
At 64, she still has symptoms from time to time so what does she do about it?
Colette gives a great explanation of how night sweats and disturbed sleep create anxieties and additional symptoms, she talks about the crucial role of therapy for her in dealing with these anxieties when she felt she couldn't do so in her usual way and she shares The Secret of Beauty.
Having worked as a pharmacist and consultant for major brands in the cosmetics industry, she set up her own range of skincare in her late 50's. Colette explains why your favourite moisturiser has stopped working for you and how to bring joy to your daily skincare routine, "It's a moment with yourself. It's just lovely."
You can find Dr Colette Haydon on IG @lixirskin and on her website lixirskin.co.uk and her products are available at Sephora, John Lewis, Selfridges, Liberty, Harrods and many more.
100 Episodes in!
There have been occasions when I have not expected to reach 100 episodes. As anyone knows, who has a podcast, there is a huge amount of time and effort that goes into putting even 1 episode together, especially when it is created by one person from conception to release. So why do it?
Right from the beginning, I wanted people's stories to be told. I didn't want anyone else to feel as lost and confused as I did when Perimenopause hit.
It seems there are thousands more people like me and I have the honour of meeting just a few of them - to share their stories, their expertise, knowledge and energy. I love meeting these brilliant, inspiring people - they lift my day and I hope they lift yours too.
Imagine my joy, when the gorgeous Lisa Stockman, a truly inspiring stylist - reached out and we ended up meeting in person - for real - in person and she came all the way from Melbourne to London!
So we had to do things a little differently and film an episode. I will be the first to admit that it doesn't work so well as a podcast in audio-only form but we had so much fun and I hope it goes some way to showcase Lisa's talent. I know I left feeling inspired to up my getting-dressed game (buttoning my shirt properly and zipping my fly is a start - see video 🤦🏼♀️)
Lisa is a natural born stylist who has actively been picking out clothes for people from the age of 9! She gives the gift of confidence with simple, easy to do tips and tricks that really make you feel great.
She gives us the inside scoop on shopping for jeans, the benefits of a v-neck, how to style shirts, blazers, shoes and it's all within everyone's grasp.
"Tits Up, Shoulders Back, Ladies" xoxo
You can find Lisa on IG @lisastockmanstylist and her website https://www.lisastockman.com.au
Head over to YouTube for the full effect.
Please share REAL MENOPAUSE TALK The Podcast with everyone you know and LEAVE A REVIEW as this is what will ultimately make the difference and it helps us keep the podcast going. 🌎 😍 🙏
Follow us wherever you get your podcasts and subscribe to our newsletter by signing up on the website realmenopausetalk.com😃
#realmenopausetalk #perimenopause #menopause #fashion
When Chana and I spoke for this recording, it was right at the beginning of the current conflict in Israel and Chana lives right in the heart of Jerusalem. This speaks volumes for the kind of person she is - giving, calm, centred and willing to share her insights so that others may benefit.
In this episode we talk about her illustrious career in Hollywood, the extreme trauma and injury she experienced which left her in great physical pain, her 10 year Perimenopause which included horrendous brain fog, "like thinking through molasses", and the difference between feeling depressed and suffering from depression, which many of us understand first hand.
Chana's most recently published book, 'Very Well' is a novel about Menopause. And it makes for a fascinating read. She weaves the way she healed her debilitating pain into the stories of the characters so that the reader can understand how to move through life with less suffering and more joy. She has another book on the way - so get yourself on the list!
You can find Chana at https://www.chanastudley.com and @chanastudley on IG on LinkedIn and where ever you get your books.
It is very clear that Dr Monica Williams cares deeply for people and their complete wellbeing. It seems she always has done, as though caring is written into her DNA. Having trained originally as a paediatrician, and worked in family medicine for over 25 years, Dr Monica now takes care of as many people as she can through functional and integrative medicine. Today, we discuss the differences that women of colour may experience when it comes to Perimenopause and Menopause. Dr Monica shares her own experience of fibroids and the impact of stress on general health. We talk about how education and being aware and prepared can change the course of someone's physical condition, how to address concerns around Menopause even when they feel taboo and the importance of making sure that everyone - EVERYONE - has access to the healthcare they deserve. You can find Dr Monica on IG @deep-rooted-health and at https://www.deeprootedhealth.org
If you have been around here for a while, you cannot have failed to have encountered Amanda Thebe - fitness and women's health expert, fount of knowledge on all things Menopause and exactly the person you would want to have a good natter with.
I am fortunate enough to have her as my guest this week!
As author of best-seller Menopocalypse, host of her FB Group Menopausing So Hard, member of the Canadian and North American Menopause Society and with 30 years in the fitness industry, she has seen it all and isn't afraid to tell it how it is.
In this episode, we talk about her own Menopause, of course, the most common symptoms women endure - the migraines, weight gain, anxiety, brain fog and depression - the glorious hindsight of Perimenopause, her methods for not only getting through, but getting the most out of this phase of life and the freedom it can ultimately bring. All, naturally, in the most relatable way.
You can find Amanda on IG @amanda.thebe, on her website https://amandathebe.com and of course her book is available in book stores IRL and online.
We're back to round off Season 5, all with a fresh new look and more fabulous guests. It is SO good to have you here. Thank-you for your continued support and feedback. It is thanks to today's guest, that we go right back to our roots. The reason Real Menopause Talk was set up in the first place was to share real life experiences of Peri to Post Menopause and share our tips, struggles and successes. And this is exactly what you will find as Michelle Baines and I have a chat in this episode. She reached out to me, wanting to share her story so far so that others can relate and nobody need feel alone, which was how she felt when she first started experiencing symptoms. Her headaches, digestive issues, depression and anxiety became overwhelming and even the day before we recorded, she had spent 3 hours in her car, in tears. When it's bad, it's bad and I'm sure we can all understand how that feels. This all highlights the importance of education of our doctors, ourselves and the generations coming up behind us. For physical AND mental health support. Michelle has one message here: "Be more Brave" ❤️
If you're a friend of the show, you will remember the lovely Victoria Hardy from Season 3, when she talked about how surgical menopause changed her life at home and at work, the struggles, frustrations and the way she handled the hurdles - powerfully, I would say.
We get to catch up with her here, about a year on from our last conversation: she's come a long way, transformed how she feels and... she's written a book. But it is so much more than a book. 'My Menopause, My Journal, My Rules' is somthing to be treasured. It's a work of art, an intimate look into Victoria's life, a diary, it's interactive, it's other people's stories, it's informative and supportive, encouraging and a massive great hug just when you need it. After all, "Being yourself is a fucking Superpower!"
In this episode, Victoria fills us in on her most recent year, what made her choose to write a book, how she created such a beautiful work, her transformation and what propels her to continue speaking up about menopause and being a proud representative for those in surgical menopause.
You can find Victoria on IG @ginge_unhinged and TikTok @gingeunhinged and you can buy her book 'My Menopause, My Journal, My Rules' at gingeunhinged.com and on Amazon.
Lisa and Adrienne are joyous company and in our time together, they taught me a thing or two about keeping life interesting and fun!
They met in North Carolina, where they now live together, at a running club - and they've been running together ever since.
Between them, they have an extraordinary list of credentials, including physical therapy, integrative manual therapy, personal training and massage therapy. Having studies as atheletes, the natural progression for them, was to share their knowledge and insight into living well, especially post Menopause, with all women, not just the super athletic.
In this episode, they share their personal and individual experiences of Menopause, what they have learnt from it and from each other and how they are navigate ageing. For most of us, the notion of 'getting older' hold negative connotations but Lisa and Adrienne and turning this idea on its head - just wait until you hear how they continue to challenge themselves and enjoy life - true renegades!
You can find Adrienne and Lisa on their website: agelikearenegade.com and on socials as @age_like_a_renegade
When you meet somebody who just 'gets it' and who solves every problem they encounter with an openness and a curiosity that is at the same time intriguing and calming, it is so easy to listen. Jacqui Burge is just that person.
Going from a rock and roll lifestyle, touring with Nirvana in the 90's, into the Health & Wellness industry was a natural progression for Jacqui. This may sound like a contradiction but it actually makes perfect sense and many of us have lived our twenties and thirties like rockstars and are now embracing good long-term lifestyle choices and health.
In this episode we talk about the benefits of tequila at lunchtime - yes really! - about solutions for constipation (at last an episode that addresses the reality) and sleep issues and, of course, her protein and supplement business with co-founder of XO Jacqui, Alexis Davis. A business run by women for women that truly understands the demands on us, the physical transformations we go through and the support we need.
You can find Jacqui at xojacqui.com and on IG @xojacquiproducts and the protein blend is available on Amazon.
Daria Tiesler has many stories to tell. A former pro-athlete, mother, wife and high end personal trainer, she calls herself a 360 degree Transformation Coach and she really does delve deep into creating profound wellbeing for her clients by looking at the spiritual as much as the physical.
In this episode, she shares her life and experiences, why she feels so strongly about training women who are Peri to Post Menopausal, why she wants them to set new goals and really live their lives to the fullest. We also talk about the greater meaning and purpose of Perimenopause - what this transition can bring when it comes to the change in attitude towards ourselves along with the challenges of making ourselves a higher priority on a long list of things to do.
Daria talks freely about the benefit of exercise on maintaining healthy balanced. hormones and the added bonus that, "if we add lean muscle mass, we don't have to work as hard at this." Choosing our time, and the people in our lives wisely has powerful, positive consequences and Daria is here to share them all.
You can find Daria on IG @daria.tiesler and her website houseofholisticperformance.com
And on a final note, we're thrilled to have been mentioned by Feedspot as number 28 out of the 60 Best Menopause Podcasts - thank-you Feedspot! https://blog.feedspot.com/menopause_podcasts/
Siobhan McCarthy is the Co-Founder of Living M. Living M is the most luxurious thing to happen to my skin since Perimenopause began and I say that from the bottom of my heart. It is also so much more than skincare - there is a warm community and camaraderie that brings women together.
For many of us, it's easier to see when our symptoms began; for Siobhan, it was in her late 30's when Perimenopause simply wasn't on her radar and because they weren't "the classics" she thought she was probably imagining it. I am sure many of you can relate. And sure enough, just as one thing is under control, another pops up elsewhere.
In this episode, we discuss her experience of eczema, dry eye, surprising skin changes and, her least favourite symptom - brain fog. Siobhan also brings up the relevant and interesting topic of resistance to ageing and how this can feed into something of a denial when it comes to Menopause - especially because of the way society has viewed women in Menopause.
"The fear of dying is human, the fear of ageing is cultural."
Speaking to Siobhan makes me smile, I hope listening to her makes you smile too.
You can find Siobhan on wearelivingm.com and on IG, FB and Twitter all as @wearelivingm
Maryjane Fahey is an artist, creator, writer, straight talker, and Founder of Glorious Broads.
Maryjane is the Original Glorious Broad - calling out ageism, discovering bold kindred spirits on the streets of New York, creating beauty, writing for the soul, lifting weights and sipping martinis. She draws the most inspiring, creative and glamorous people to her as she is one herself and takes absolutely zero crap.
Every time I visit her website or IG page, I feel enriched. Maryjane and all her Glorious Broads are exactly who I want to be - they are themselves - unapologetic, open, interesting, curious, and magnetic at all ages. They're a feast for the senses and make you think - understand who you are and who you can be. And it's all with a sense of fun and great enjoyment!
In this episode, we talk about art, pleasure, the changes friendships go through, working out who you are, partners, sex, sensuality and her philosophy in life, "Take more chances when you see the exit is nearer. I always thought I would write a play and now I'm doing it. Push yourself to take those chances in life."
You can find Maryjane at gloriousbroads.com and on socials as @gloriousbroads
Photograph by Russ Rowland
Elizabeth Sherman has many qualifications in the realm of Health and Wellbeing. She is a Master Certified Health and Life Coach who helps women in Perimenopause and Menopause manage their symptoms as well as other stressful demands that accompany this life season.
She has her own podcast, Done with Dieting, which offers tools and skills to feel good around food and to make smart choices more easily.
Who would you like, alive or dead, to run your life with you? It's a fun concept and one that can actually propel you forward to succeeding in all sorts of areas of living with power and fun.
In this episode, we discuss a later-in-life diagnosis of ADD and ADHD - what this looks like to others, navigating a new way of identifying and communicating this with the people around you.
We also talk about complicated relationships with food and how to address what may be lifelong beliefs now that we really need to fuel ourselves optimally.
Plus, Elizabeth shares some illuminating insights into the relationship so many women have with pleasure and how to find pleasure in healthy choices.
You can find Elizabeth here:
Website: [www.elizabethsherman.com]
Podcast: Done with Dieting [www.elizabethsherman.com/podcast]
Facebook: [www.facebook.com/totalhealthbyeliz]
Instagram: [www.instagram.com/donewithdietingpodcast]
LinkedIn: [https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethsherma]
And on a final note, we're thrilled to have been mentioned by Feedspot as number 28 out of the 60 Best Menopause Podcasts - thank-you Feedspot! https://blog.feedspot.com/menopause_podcasts/
If you want to know what NASA and Menopause have in common, this is the episode for you.
Today, we combine Menopause, Business, Sex and Innovation, celebrating openness and creativity - all delivered by Amy Buckalter.
Amy's early work was with Nike and Sports Brand Management which opens us up to so many possible puns and a world of innuendo while we discuss personal lubrication and intimacy. So I apologise in advance! But, as you will soon discover, Pulse is indeed a game-changing device and is not only a creation of great beauty but also joy - read into that what you will!
Amy shares her experience of Menopause, what drove her to create a solution for vaginal dryness and so much more. Keeping midlife interesting and open to new experiences is what it is all about and Amy is a great role model. So tune in and enjoy!
You can find Amy at lovemypulse.com and on IG @lovemypulse
Clara Mosha is full of life and vibrancy. Previously a Masters Figure Champion in bodybuilding, competitive Strong Woman and Power Lifter she now specialises in coaching women over 40 to be their fittest and strongest yet.
If you know anything about these worlds, you will know that her achievements are no mean feat and if you are resisting the land of lifting, prepare to have your mind changed dramatically and all those popular beliefs blown :-)
Her focus on coaching midlife women comes as no surprise given how caring she is and her deep understanding not only of the female body but also of the demands put on it outside the gym. As a working mum of twins, she is all too familiar with how crammed life can be and how easy it is to make excuses to neglect ourselves. Diet, sleep and training are all key components to living well in our forties and beyond.
We have a lot of fun talking about role models, perceptions in and out of the gym, the beauty of strength training and, of course, her own experience of Menopause and how she learned to 'tame' her symptoms. You're going to love what she says it has taught her and 'the gift' it gives.
You can find Clara and Ultimate Physique Training on IG and YouTube @uptbyclaramosha on FB as Clara Mosha and her website https://ultimatephysiquetraining.podia.com/
Dr Lisa Petty @drlisapetty is living proof that education about this life phase... you know the one 😉, yes we're talking Menopause of course, can mean the difference between sinking and riding the storm like a champion.
This is why we have to share our knowledge with the generation coming up behind us so that they know, understand, can prepare and live gloriously well.
Lisa knew exactly what to expect and decided that she was going to glide through Perimenopause. So she did.
Lisa describes her process as the intersection between science and woo which I think is perfectly fitting.
She offers simple strategies to immediately get out of our head and into our body, reducing stress and increasing our intuition because, as we all know, midlife involves so much mentally, physically and emotionally with more than enough on our plate at all times.
In this episode we talk about how mindset is King... or Queen, about The Stirrings, you know that feeling when you know you have more to give but haven't quite found what it is yet let alone how to do it and we finally go there - Boredom! The boredom that can creep in during midlife and you start to wonder, is that all there is? So listen in and discover how to transform something mundane into something miraculous!
You can find Lisa, the Midlife Alchemist and Women's Coach, here on IG @drlisapetty and on her website lisapetty.com and on both LI and FB as Lisa Petty PHD.
How could we all have NOT known?
Dr Heather Hirsch recently appeared on @oprahdaily to discuss Menopause with Oprah herself, Drew Barrymore, Maria Shriver and Dr Sharon Malone and this proved to all of us that there are still millions of women out there who are just as unaware as we all were when we started experiencing Perimenopause.
In this episode we talk about education and she actually puts the onus on the medical community to learn about this life stage. We also discuss her new book 'Unlock Your Menopause Type' in which she demonstrates personalising your treatment plan, going through many symptoms individually and offering a variety of solutions.
If you want to know some more about HRT / MT / MHT this is an interesting listen as Heather breaks down her opinion on the 'window of opportunity'.
She also really nails long term self care and reveals the number 1 essential ingredient for great health.
'Unlock Your Menopause Type' is out on June 6th 2023.
You can find Dr Heather on IG @heatherhirschmd and her website heatherhirschmd.com and on all social media with the same handle.
Lavina Mehta MBE is a very busy woman so I was delighted when she agreed to have a chat and share her expertise, her success and of course her personal experience of Menopause with me. Lavina’s story is one of giving and she continues to give to all. Starting her online workouts during lockdown with her family, from her youngest son to her elderly grandparents, her ‘exercise snacks’ lead her to be recognised with an MBE. Today she talks about her Perimenopause, why she became an ambassador for Menopause Mandate, how her mum is such an inspiration in the kitchen and how she is such a great role model for the South Asian community. Her aim is to bring simple, easy, do-able Menopause and health management that work with you and your schedule no matter how pressed for time you might be. You can find Lavina on IG @feelgoodwithlavina on her website feelgoodwithlavina.com and on all social media with the same handle.
Kate Oakley went from 25 years in Human Resources to becoming a Personal Trainer. She credits Perimenopause for the shift in thinking from, “I’m too old” to “Why the hell not?!” Her experience of this life phase hasn’t been plain sailing and she shares her retrospective of body temperature changes, insomnia, anxiety and dramatic mood changes and like SO many of us, she was caught unprepared and unaware of what was happening to her. Kate is now happier with her own level of ambition than she was in her twenties, feeling great, following her passion and helping women feel and look their very best. In this episode we discuss weight management, the surprising progress that can easily be made, the power of the scales and how to ditch them for better mental health and what really works. You can find Kate (soon) on her website https://yourfuturefit.com and you can see her workouts and message her on IG @yourfuturefit
Kate Oakley went from 25 years in Human Resources to becoming a Personal Trainer. She credits Perimenopause for the shift in thinking from, “I’m too old” to “Why the hell not?!” Her experience of this life phase hasn’t been plain sailing and she shares her retrospective of body temperature changes, insomnia, anxiety and dramatic mood changes and like SO many of us, she was caught unprepared and unaware of what was happening to her. Kate is now happier with her own level of ambition than she was in her twenties, feeling great, following her passion and helping women feel and look their very best. In this episode we discuss weight management, the surprising progress that can easily be made, the power of the scales and how to ditch them for better mental health and what really works. You can find Kate (soon) on her website https://yourfuturefit.com and you can see her workouts and message her on IG @yourfuturefit Kate Oakley - Perimenopause changed me! - A new career: weight loss that really works Real Menopause Talk Download
Amy Anthony is one of America’s top certified Aromatherapists and self-proclaimed Aromatic Gardner, currently based in New York City. Working in a corporate environment was a success in many ways for Amy but eventually, the plants found her and lead her to become the sought after voice she is today on how essential oils can support our health, connect us with nature, enhance mental clarity and help cope with life’s overall challenges. Today, Amy shares with us how she supports her clients to find relief from their symptoms, she talks about supporting hormones, oils for energy, sexual wellness and getting into your body. She also shares her personal and very current discovery of fibroids and what she is doing to care for herself at this time. Being so open and telling of her experience re-enforces the power of conversation, especially when it comes to women’s health. You can find Amy on her website https://nycaromatic.com and on IG @nycaromatica
Claire Hattrick is on a roll! Mum to twin girls who are now fully grown, accomplished adults, once a car sales executive turned beauty therapist, she is educating as many people as she can as Menopause Advocate. Clipboardclaire.com started off as a family run project and is now a full fledged business helping women understand Peri to Post Menopause and navigate their way through this time of life and its potential pitfalls. Claire openly shares her truly extraordinary story of the loss of joy that so many of us experience and find difficult to explain, insomnia and extreme joint issues, and when I say extreme, I mean extreme. She takes us step by step through the nine and a half years she endured before diagnosis of Menopause and subsequent recovery. She is a deeply passionate and well loved campaigner, striving to end the mystery around Menopause. You can find Claire on her website https://clipboardclaire.com @clipboardclaire on IG @clipboardclair3 on Twitter and Claire Hattrick on LinkedIn
Pauline has extraordinary knowledge of the human body and women’s health. How we operate and what we need to operate at our best, is her day to day and she is clearly passionate about every aspect of what she does. This is another jam-packed episode. Here, Pauline gives us a thorough lesson in understanding the sex hormones oestrogen and progesterone in how they work and what they do for us. We discuss the ketogenic diet, metabolic flexibility, how to get the best from intermittent fasting, weight management and how to overcome the evening snack-attack. As you may agree, Menopause shines a light on how we take care of ourselves, where we need to alter our priorities and even where we need to heal. Pauline is all too aware of this and supports women through the process of cleaning this up, especially from their 40’s onwards. As a heads up, we talk in some depth about emotional eating as a coping mechanism from adverse childhood experiences and eating as filling an emotional gap all of which is a sensitive subject for many. “It’s not you. You’re fighting a primal instinct.” And as a friendly reminder to everyone, the best of you is yet to come. You can find Pauline on her website https://sowandarrow.com @paulinejcox on IG
Post Cancer & Surgical Menopause are two huge and hugely important subjects. Dani has experienced both. She is a mum to 3 girls, a nutrition coach, yoga teacher and many more wonderful things. She is also a delight to talk to. Surviving Breast Cancer at 33, she then had her ovaries removed aged 39. That’s a lot to take in. If you are a Cancer Survivor or are undergoing treatment, if you know someone who is a Cancer Survivor or is undergoing or about to have treatment, please listen to Dani’s episode or pass it on. Today, Dani shares her whole experience from diagnosis through to her current plans. She is wide open about asking questions, finding your tribe, what to eat, the mistakes she made along the way, menopause treatment options and what has been a success for her. We talk about using certain drugs as treatment for symptoms they may not be widely known for - not re-appropriation as such, more like use with knowledgable application. We also discuss how our body may have different needs Post Menopause, questions to ask your medical teams and so much more…even her husbnd’s love of fish & chips! “Give it a go! There’s always a real chance it might really work for you!” You can find Dani on her website https://www.healthywholeme.com/ @healthywholeme on IG @Dani Binnington on LinkedIn
Katie Isles is delightfully easy company and so willingly open about all the ups and downs that go along with living a life! This is the blueprint for a normalised, run-of-the-mill conversation that we should all be able to have. Like so many of us, Katie hadn’t a clue when Perimenopause hit her, aged 45. She suffered crippling fatigue, anxiety, mood swings and was in denial for as long as she could be because she didn’t feel like the Menopausal woman portrayed in the media. She entered what she has called, ‘The Perimenopause Wilderness’. Katie shares her hugely relatable story about her woeful lack of knowledge- which I say with zero judgement, especially having been in the same position - and how she has pulled herself out of the depths. She is living proof that there are many parts to the jigsaw puzzle which include mindset and sheer determination. “You will have superwoman days & days where you just want your elasticated jogger & Ginger Nuts.” You can find Katie using #madformidlife and @katieisles on IG @isleskate on Twitter
Jay Courtney is the most fantastic role model for Post-Menopause and clearly a great friend to many. She shares with us a fascinating insight into life in the 1970’s, when many of us were growing up which provides an added perspective on Menopause and women’s self belief. It has certainly spurred me on even more to embrace the awakening and spirit of change at this time of life. ‘Juicy Crones’ is a most energising and uplifting look at yet another part of life that is overlooked: the. ‘what next?’ after retirement and indeed Menopause and the ensuing discovery of Self. “Embrace Ageing! And have fun for goodness’ sake!” This episode reminds me of my Mum and her friends who she would talk to about all the juicy parts of life - straight in, no smalltalk, just the most fruity, raunchy naked truth! So I dedicate this to all of you Juicy Crones xoxo. You can find ‘Juicy Crones - Free for the Strangest Adventures’ where ever you buy books and for a giveaway at time of release - check us out on Instagram.
Nicola is all about the easy fix - not the quick fix! - the easy, simple strategy that you can implement seamlessly into your already busy life to make it better. She and I actually met about 25 years ago (ever have that moment where you stop and think, ‘25 years?? God that’s a long time) but knew each other in the realms of a very social group and media. It is now an absolute joy to reconnect in the midlife, women’s health and menopause arena. Nicola has many brilliant and high powered cards to play when in comes to solutions for women’s health. She is a registered nutritional therapist, clinical hypnotherapist, a Master Practitioner for eating disorders and a member of The Institute for Functional Medicine. All of which come in handy when addressing hormonal imbalances of Peri to Post Menopause in midlife. In this episode we talk about her health and Perimenopause, nutrition and optimising hormones, cleaning out excess hormones, bowel movements, collagen, stress and island life. You can find Nicola on IG @urbanwellnessuk and her website information go to: https://urbanwellness.co.uk/
Kate is a busy woman. She is a mother of three, a wife, personal trainer and she runs her own business: Owning Your Menopause. All this, and she is refreshing to talk to , down to earth, open and honest. She makes no secret of the fact that she struggles initially with Perimenopause even as a fit, health conscious woman. Furthermore, like most of us, her transition has not been smooth and linear. The difference for her now is that she knows what to do to make herself feel better, when she hits the dips. And she goes all in to help herself and others. Kate’s goal is to help as many women as possible to move through this transition of Perimenopause feeling strong, in control, fit and healthy. In this episode we talk about her experience of Perimenopause, the fundamentals of fitness and overall health, how to get started and how to embrace it as part of your happy, vibrant lifestyle. You can find Kate on IG @katerh_fitness and @owningyourmenopause and for the app and her website information go to: https://owningyourmenopause.com
Farah has a lot to share and great advice to give. In her work as a clinical natropathic nutritionist and dna neutrogenomics (don’t worry, this is a new realm to me too) practitioner, she has most angles covered when it comes to optimal health. She explains how she took her own, at that time miserable, experience of Perimenopause and used herself as a guinea pig through her study and experimentation to bring her to where she is now - better energy than in her 30’s! In this episode, she gives us a wide range of excellent advice on sleep, movement, keeping your vaginal microbiome happy, detox strategy and what to ask for in a blood test; All in the name of symptom management and elimination - much of it that you can do today! “Menopause, for me, is a time to be freed from worry.” You can find Farah on IG @integrity_nutrition_and_ health at https://integritynutritionandhealth.com
Debs Wallbank is what she says she is: Menopausitivity! But it wasn’t always like that. Her story starts in a way that many of us may be familiar with - fatigue, confusion and brain fog. Her list of symptoms then expands into joint aches, itchy skin, depression and many more. She says herself that there weren’t may symptoms that she didn’t have. In this episode, she tells us the whole story and why it is so absolutely essential for everyone to be educated on the fundamentals of Menopause as par for the course. Understanding the simple biology would save lives. We discuss the importance of knowing your options, the benefits and risks of HRT and what to ask your GP. Debs’ personal story may be a work in progress but she has triumphs to share and is excited about what happens next…and so am I! You can find Debs on IG @themenopauseconfidencecoach and at https://menopausitivity.co.uk
Emily Barclay was training for and taking part in triathlons and iron man competitions when she was suddenly struck by debilitating fatigue, seemingly out of nowhere. She had no idea what had hit her and caused such a dramatic change in her physical (and consequently mental) capabilities and being. So she set about getting to the root of it, although it wasn’t as simple as it might have been. In this episode, we explore Emily’s Perimenopause in detail, how it changed her life and how she became the Founder of The Perimenopause Hub. We share the wonder of dogs, discuss the importance of the right kind of support, what is truly important to her and her three wishes as The Perigodmother, “Because ultimately I just want everyone to feel epic again.” You can find Emily on IG @perimenopausehub, on LinkedIn @EmilyBarclay and at https://perimenopausehub.com
BRANDS - LISTEN UP! - This is what women want: We’re powerful, strong, discerning. We need purposeful engagement with the older woman, we want to see the things we need becoming available to us, and that is everything from effective handcream to modern legislation. Claire Lowson’s passion is re-branding age as ‘The Coming of Age’. Did you know, most life decades measure more life satisfaction that the one previous? In this Episode we discuss Claire’s experience, women’s sense of identity at various points of life, optimising the workplace, coming to motherhood in your forties, roles models ‘through the ages’ and so much more. “Let’s re-brand age and make it the place to be.” You can find Claire on IG @clairelowson_supermenopause and at The Propaganda Agency https://propaganda.co.uk
Tania Elfersy is a wife, mum of three, educator, certified transformative coach and author. She has lived in London, Paris, Ho Chi Min City and now resides in Israel. If you are interested in how simple a natural cure can be for Perimenopause symptoms, and how swift, this episode is for you. As I am sure you know, a holiday can transform the way you feel mentally and physically. Tania examines this notion at a deep level and shares how she cured her Perimenopause symptoms (migraines, ,mood swings, night sweats, skin problems and sore breasts) in a matter of days. We talk about Menopause in history, which is truly eye-opening and fascinating, how HRT is not a pre-ordained part of your life (with notable exceptions such as surgical menopause for example), how so many 40 somethings know nothing of Perimenopause and the ancient wisdom of the body. “Our healing is so much simpler than we think.” You can find Tania on her website https://thewiserwoman.com
Maryon Stewart is possibly best known as a tv presenter and author but she is renowned for her charitable endeavours and her work in the field of non-drug medicine specialising in Menopause. If you cannot or choose not to take HRT, this episode is for you. And even if you do choose hormone replacement, there is more to learn about successful symptom management! I ask Maryon, “Am I missing out if I don’t take HRT?” and “How quickly can symptoms be resolved naturally?” We talk about how she managed her own Perimenopause, her book, ‘Manage Your Menopause Naturally’, her Midlife Refuel Club and the importance of doing something that lights up your heart every day. “You can get back to your normal, sexy self again.” You can find Maryon on Instagram @maryonstewartmenopause & on her website https://maryonstewart.com and her book is available in all the usual places.
Kath Berry holds a masters degree in acupuncture for drug and alcohol addiction, is a mother of two and has lived around the world. Ever wondered why you can't party like you used to? Kath has the answers. Currently living in Ibiza, party capital of the world, she found perimenopausal and menopausal women coming into her clinic saying they were not getting any pleasure from recreational alcohol and drug use in the way they had done. For over 4.5 years, she gathered the world’s top brains on Menopause, even coaxing one out of retirement, to collate research, knowledge and understanding into a book - ‘Menopause, A comprehensive guide for Practitioners’ - to educate practitioners further and to bring them up to date on Menopause research to better support their clients. In essence, she has the ‘Blueprint for Menopause’ and she feels it is her responsibility to live this blueprint and to thrive through midlife and the rest of life. In this episode, we talk about sleep, alcohol and cocaine, the importance of sex and staying in touch with your vagina and how Perimenopause is a great time to do a life audit of things that no longer serve you - including friends. “We need to reframe feeling invisible as a new space to be more authentic, a space to wear, do and say what you want and for women as a whole to show up as powerful & influential.” You can find Kath on Instagram @kathbberry & on the website https://www.treatingwomen.com/contact
Dr Ron Eaker is a breath of fresh air. He has a profound knowledge, understanding and appreciation of women (he clearly loves his wife, two daughters and female pets!) and he genuinely wants to support us all. He also wants us to fully understand our bodies and take a holistic approach to feeling good - not adequate - good! “You can really blossom and find joy at this time of life.” Many of us have had negative experiences at this life phase with physicians but if anyone is lucky enough to go straight to Dr Eaker, they will only know understanding, compassion and positive action. This is women’s health at its best! In this episode, we discuss the starting point of expectation, that Peri through to Post Menopause is a natural, normal and inevitable part of life but the symptoms are not. He shares his approach to weight management, stress management and sex drive and how he likes women to live their happiest, healthiest lives. You can find Dr Ron Eaker on Instagram @mymdvip & on his website https://roneaker.com
A mini pod to mark World Menopause Day and a few reasons why some of the wonderful women I met at the rally outside the Houses of Parliament are supporters of the Menopause Mandate and are fiercly advocating for women’s health. With enormous thanks to Carolyn Harris, Mariella Frostrup and Diane Danzebrink for being instrumental in bringing this together among many others and for their comments, thanks go to: Carol Vorderman @carolvorders Kate Rowe-Ham @katerh_fitness Lavina Mehta @feelgoodwithlavina Lisa Snowdon @lisa_snowdon Penny Lancaster @penny.lancaster Sam Simister @genm_official & Victoria Hardy @ginge_unhinged #MenopauseMandate
Alexandra and Sjanie are the co-founders and co-directors of Red School. Red school provides a radical new approach towards women’s health, creativity, leadership and spiritual life, accessed through Menstrual Cycle Awareness. For those of you who are sceptical, bear with me here because I felt the same way until I read their first book, ‘Wild Power’. As testimony to Alexandra and Sjanie’s teachings, my 16 year old daughter is actually on board with the seasonal approach to her cycle (although not yet embracing the process fully!) and my 10 year old is no longer fearful of starting her period. For those of you who already know - just dive in! When I heard about ‘Wise Power’, I was intrigued and extremely excited. And it doesn’t disappoint. Alexandra suffered from endometriosis and from her pain, she began work. Together, she and Sjanie have encapsulated the potency and power of what is at work both during menstruation and, most importantly here, Menopause. The work that both these wonderful women do is extraordinary yet somehow the deep spirituality is relatable and accessible, plus the understanding and compassion that they have is profoundly human which actually makes it even more extraordinary. In this episode, we talk about how Menopause is currently portrayed in the world, the fact it has a voice, how naming the experience can make you feel seen and the importance of story telling. There is much to be celebrated about this life phase and much to be learned. We also mention mental health so if you are struggling, please, please get in touch and we can support you and point you in the right direction. You are not alone. “Menopause is this extraordinary awakening moment.” You can find Alexandra & Sjanie on Instagram @red.school & on the website https://www.redschool.net and the must read Wise Power is available now.
Thelma is a former celebrity publicist and has spent the past ten years as a women’s health coach, encouraging black women and women of colour into deep, radical nourishing self and health care. Thelma sees ageing as a plus and something that makes us “extra wise, seasoned, and spicy - let’s face it nobody wants to be bland and boring.” She is adamant that we don’t have to experience Menopause the way our mothers did and she can’t wait to show the world that ageing never looked so good. In this episode, we cover so much ground and have a good giggle: Thelma shares her Perimenopause experiences in depth, how you get to know yourself and your body really well through this stage of life, how stress can manifest itself and trigger Menopause symptoms, plus representation, food and culture and how it may be worth it to try, try and try again when it comes to HRT. “You can’t out HRT bad lifestyle choices.” You can find Thelma on Instagram @after9lifestyle & on her website https://after9lifestyle.com
Dr Louann Brizendine is Professor of Neuropsychiatry at the University of California, SF, Founder of the Women’s Mood & Hormone Clinic and Author of The Male Brain, The Female Brain and The Upgrade. If you haven’t read The Upgrade already - please do! It is the most positive, informative and relatable book I have come across so far and is packed full of useful information on how to get the very best out of this phase of life. “Being true to yourself is something we have all been so hungry for.” In this episode, we discuss what happens when you sleep - and how to get more of it, why mood swings happen, what is going on in our brains and bodies with irregular periods, arguments for consideration with regards to HRT, sensitivity to heat changes and I get properly called out when it comes to coffee! “A key piece in your toolbag?… saying ‘Let me finish this first’.” You can find Louann on Instagram @louannbrizendine & on her website https://louannbrizendine.com and The Upgrade can be found in all the usual places. I cannot recommend it highly enough :-)
Sally Mueller was tired, irritable, had mood swings and dry skin but put it all down to travelling for work and perhaps being a little burnt out. She then discovered she had early onset osteoporosis and was in Perimenopause. Her search for remedies and solutions was so disheartening that she decided to take on the Menopause space and renovate it from the ground up. She and Michelle Jacobs, created Womaness and they take their responsibility to help and support women very seriously. In this episode, Sally shares her experience, her ‘aha’ moment and how she is working to Modernise Menopause, spark Menopositivity and take care of Sleep, Skin and Sexual Wellness for women across the globe. “We do want to celebrate it and talk about it.” PLUS you can join the Womaness team throughout the month of October on their Menopositivity Tour - tune in to find out more. I would also love to meet you as I will be in Santa Monica at the start of their tour on October 1st - drop me a line if you’re going to be there! You can find Sally on Instagram @thesallym & on her website https://womaness.com and Womaness @mywomaness
Sally Mueller was tired, irritable, had mood swings and dry skin but put it all down to travelling for work and perhaps being a little burnt out. She then discovered she had early onset osteoporosis and was in Perimenopause. Her search for remedies and solutions was so disheartening that she decided to take on the Menopause space and renovate it from the ground up. She and Michelle Jacobs, created Womaness and they take their responsibility to help and support women very seriously. In this episode, Sally shares her experience, her ‘aha’ moment and how she is working to Modernise Menopause, spark Menopositivity and take care of Sleep, Skin and Sexual Wellness for women across the globe. “We do want to celebrate it and talk about it.” PLUS you can join the Womaness team throughout the month of October on their Menopositivity Tour - tune in to find out more. I would also love to meet you as I will be in Santa Monica at the start of their tour on October 1st - drop me a line if you’re going to be there! You can find Sally on Instagram @thesallym & on her website https://womaness.com and Womaness @mywomaness
Gayle Stevens-White has many wonderful strings to her bow. She comes from a teaching background and is currently a grass roots activist for Women’s Health and Menopause as well as running a business and a home. She had lost the ability to function, was suffering from debilitating fatigue, chronic overwhelm and for her, the toughest challenge of Perimenopause was a feeling of zero cognitive function. If this sounds at all familiar, listen in - there is a positive! In this episode, Gayle shares what she did to get herself feeling fit, healthy and able to function well and the process she went through. She is frank, funny and has a few tales to tell along the way. You’ll love spending time with her! You can find Gayle on Instagram @gswmenoflock and @rockandrebellion and @menopausecafe & on her website https://menoflock.com
Gayle Stevens-White has many wonderful strings to her bow. She comes from a teaching background and is currently a grass roots activist for Women’s Health and Menopause as well as running a business and a home. She had lost the ability to function, was suffering from debilitating fatigue, chronic overwhelm and for her, the toughest challenge of Perimenopause was a feeling of zero cognitive function. If this sounds at all familiar, listen in - there is a positive! In this episode, Gayle shares what she did to get herself feeling fit, healthy and able to function well and the process she went through. She is frank, funny and has a few tales to tell along the way. You’ll love spending time with her! You can find Gayle on Instagram @gswmenoflock and @rockandrebellion and @menopausecafe & on her website https://menoflock.com
Today’s Bonus Episode is an International smorgasboard of experience and information and continuing on from yesterday’s Bonus Episode with a cause, we share more information about how you can get involved in this year’s GLOBAL MENOPAUSE WALK. Nathalie Bonfé, originally from France and now based in Conneticut is a research scientist gone rogue. She holds a PhD in Philosophy, Molecular Biology & Biochemistry. These days, she specialises in Women’s Health, runs Menopause cafés and is an End of Life Doula. Sallyanne Brady has gone from feeling lost on a dark path in Perimenopause to running the number one support group for women going through Perimenopause in Ireland: The Irish Menopause. “If it’s this easily fixed, why did I not know this and why does nobody else know?” Both, clearly care enormously about others and support them with all their knowledge and heart. Unsurprisingly, they are instrumental in Stride by Side, the Global Menopause Walk of 2022: The goal is to walk or move 50,000 steps throughout the month of October. Why 50,000? 50 is because approximately 50% of the population will experience Menopause, because it is roughly the average age of Menopause and the length of a marathon. The purpose is to raise money for research into Women’s Health. To find out more and register NOW, go to: https://www.charityfootprints.com/StrideBySide/ You can find Nathalie on https://nathaliebonafe.com/ @nath_bonafe on Insta https://www.facebook.com/nathaliemlbonafe You can find Sallyanne on https://theirishmenopause.com @theirish_menopause on Insta https://www.facebook.com/theirishmenopausepage AND https://www.facebook.com/groups/287737948785200 https://twitter.com/IrishMenopause
Today’s Bonus Episode is an International smorgasboard of experience and information and continuing on from yesterday’s Bonus Episode with a cause, we share more information about how you can get involved in this year’s GLOBAL MENOPAUSE WALK. Nathalie Bonfé, originally from France and now based in Conneticut is a research scientist gone rogue. She holds a PhD in Philosophy, Molecular Biology & Biochemistry. These days, she specialises in Women’s Health, runs Menopause cafés and is an End of Life Doula. Sallyanne Brady has gone from feeling lost on a dark path in Perimenopause to running the number one support group for women going through Perimenopause in Ireland: The Irish Menopause. “If it’s this easily fixed, why did I not know this and why does nobody else know?” Both, clearly care enormously about others and support them with all their knowledge and heart. Unsurprisingly, they are instrumental in Stride by Side, the Global Menopause Walk of 2022: The goal is to walk or move 50,000 steps throughout the month of October. Why 50,000? 50 is because approximately 50% of the population will experience Menopause, because it is roughly the average age of Menopause and the length of a marathon. The purpose is to raise money for research into Women’s Health. To find out more and register NOW, go to: https://www.charityfootprints.com/StrideBySide/ You can find Nathalie on https://nathaliebonafe.com/ @nath_bonafe on Insta https://www.facebook.com/nathaliemlbonafe You can find Sallyanne on https://theirishmenopause.com @theirish_menopause on Insta https://www.facebook.com/theirishmenopausepage AND https://www.facebook.com/groups/287737948785200 https://twitter.com/IrishMenopause
This is a Bonus Episode for more than one reason. Bonus because I am joined by TWO powerhouse, fabulous women to talk about Peri to Post Menopause and their experiences. Bonus because it’s an extra episode this week and possibly most importantly, bonus because YOU can get involved. Emily Barclay heads up The Perimenopause Hub, bringing together world wide resources and experts on Perimenopause and Menopause so that women feel supported and heard. “Just getting that word, Perimenopause, was a weight lifted.” Loretta Dignam is an award-winning Marketer of the Year, who is CEO of The Menopause Hub, Ireland's first and only dedicated multidisciplinary menopause clinic, opened in December 2018. In this episode we discuss, Testosterone, Brain Health, Chronic Fatigue, the Wilderness of Perimenopause, Dry Eye, Migraines, being sent to A&E for symptoms and Loretta’s story of hot flash magnets - not to be missed! Most importantly, we introduce the Menopause Walk 22 - Stride by Side - what, when and why and how YOU can get involved. https://www.charityfootprints.com/StrideBySide/ You can find Emily at https://perimenopausehub.com Perimenopause Hub on FB, @perimenopausehub on Insta @perimenohub on Twitter. You can find Loretta at https://www.themenopausehub.ie/ @menopausehub on Insta The Menopause Hub on LinkedIn
This is a Bonus Episode for more than one reason. Bonus because I am joined by TWO powerhouse, fabulous women to talk about Peri to Post Menopause and their experiences. Bonus because it’s an extra episode this week and possibly most importantly, bonus because YOU can get involved. Emily Barclay heads up The Perimenopause Hub, bringing together world wide resources and experts on Perimenopause and Menopause so that women feel supported and heard. “Just getting that word, Perimenopause, was a weight lifted.” Loretta Dignam is an award-winning Marketer of the Year, who is CEO of The Menopause Hub, Ireland's first and only dedicated multidisciplinary menopause clinic, opened in December 2018. In this episode we discuss, Testosterone, Brain Health, Chronic Fatigue, the Wilderness of Perimenopause, Dry Eye, Migraines, being sent to A&E for symptoms and Loretta’s story of hot flash magnets - not to be missed! Most importantly, we introduce the Menopause Walk 22 - Stride by Side - what, when and why and how YOU can get involved. https://www.charityfootprints.com/StrideBySide/ You can find Emily at https://perimenopausehub.com Perimenopause Hub on FB, @perimenopausehub on Insta @perimenohub on Twitter. You can find Loretta at https://www.themenopausehub.ie/ @menopausehub on Insta The Menopause Hub on LinkedIn
When you combine open, honest, feisty, and strong with a good sense of humour and a full tonne of knowledge, you get Erin Holt. Having struggled with an eating disorder for 13 years, she decided to educate herself so that she could heal. She has a great, high energy and solid knowledge laced with humour for a unique and customised approach to women’s health. She dives deep with women to get to the root cause of their health issues and finally get answers to their mystery symptoms. “We shouldn’t normalise suffering. Perimenopause is not a time when you need to suffer.” In this episode, Erin shares how to set your day up for success, why we should have confidence in our own knowledge, especially when it comes to our own bodies, and she gives seriously sound advice if you are ready to take charge of your life. You can find Erin on Instagram @the.funktional.nutritionist & on her website https://www.thefunktionalnutritionist.com and her podcast is https://www.thefunktionalnutritionist.com/the-funktional-nutrition-podcast
When you combine open, honest, feisty, and strong with a good sense of humour and a full tonne of knowledge, you get Erin Holt. Having struggled with an eating disorder for 13 years, she decided to educate herself so that she could heal. She has a great, high energy and solid knowledge laced with humour for a unique and customised approach to women’s health. She dives deep with women to get to the root cause of their health issues and finally get answers to their mystery symptoms. “We shouldn’t normalise suffering. Perimenopause is not a time when you need to suffer.” In this episode, Erin shares how to set your day up for success, why we should have confidence in our own knowledge, especially when it comes to our own bodies, and she gives seriously sound advice if you are ready to take charge of your life. You can find Erin on Instagram @the.funktional.nutritionist & on her website https://www.thefunktionalnutritionist.com and her podcast is https://www.thefunktionalnutritionist.com/the-funktional-nutrition-podcast
Freddy’s story is one of self reinvention time and again, especially during her perimenopausal and menopausal years. Now 20 years Post Menopause she is able to share with us why Menopause is so much more than the end of bleeding. From suicidal ideation through divorce to dancing on stage and celebrating herself, Freddy now shares her knowledge and experience with others and the glory of being Post Menopause. “It’s a really interesting thing, that morning when you wake up and think, I don’t give a damn anymore.” In this episode, we discuss her life, her strategies, the impact of declining estrogen on people’s lives, “Menopause is never a solitary experience” and what symptoms she believes you should look out for. She also has five things she would like to say to men. You can find Freddy on LinkedIn @FreddyCarrick and you can find her book, ‘Menopause Unzipped’ and her tracker, “What the Heck is Wrong with Me?” on Amazon.
Are you having good orgasms? A practising midwife for 20 years, Nadine has gathered and harnessed an expansive knowledge of herbology, breathwork, fire walking and sexuality to become the Embodied Wild Woman and Sacred Sexuality Coach she is today. Are you feeling like a shadow of your former self, unseen, low libido, a bit lost? Is there help? Yes! Nadine understands we need to be seen, nourished and cherished and sexuality is about far more than just sex, it’s a life force. “Women Change The World.” In this episode, we talk a lot about the importance of sex and sexuality. How, when it comes to midlife, you don’t want to be worrying about your floppy boobs falling into your armpits! How women’s number one sexual need is to feel desired and why you need to find your passion - what lights you up?! “Perimenopause is your life saying, ‘Stop messing around!’ We are no longer going to compromise.” You can find Nadine on IG @iamnadinerobinson and on her website https://nadinerobinson.com
After 6 years of struggling with fertility issues and 2 rounds of IVF, Sarah Banks created the IVF Positivity Planner. After much research, most recently she has come up with the Menopause Positivity Planner - a coaching programme in a book, designed to help women navigate their way through Perimenopause. Entering her forties, Sarah herself is acutely aware of the potential rigors of Perimenopause and keeping a beady eye out for signals and symptoms. She is as keen to talk about Menopause as we are here at Real Menopause Talk so that everyone can have the information they need to make choices that help them. In this episode, we cover some of the surprising similarities between IVF and HRT and we discuss emotional aspects of Menopause, how to regain control, boost your confidence and find support so that overwhelm doesn’t overtake you. You can find Sarah on IG @menopausepositivityplanner and on her website https://positivityplanners.com
As well as her stellar fashion pedigree, and understanding of women as a whole, Gloria has positivity in abundance. A born and bred Londoner with Caribbean parents, Gloria brings vibrancy and life, innovation and thoughtfulness to her work. She looks at the whole person before she starts to style them and pays careful attention to cut, colour and personality. In this episode, we discuss her attitude to Menopause, “The more I fought it, the more it raged against me, so I had to stop and embrace it.” , the dreaded trouser try-on and how it’s not you, it’s them and simple tricks to make dressing easy and fun again, even in the face of hot flashes. She also has a free e-book that she is happy to share! “Don’t let the Menopause define us, it should be us defining the Menopause.” You can find Gloria on IG @themenopausestylist and on her website https://gloriasmythe.com
Knickers, pants, undies, skims, lingerie - what ever you call it - there are deep life lessons in your knicker drawer. Kerry Hales is a highly skilled Transformation Coach, a great person to have a chat with and her insight into underwear is second to none! Her Perimenopause symptoms were wide ranging like many of us: night sweats, insomnia, bone aches, fatigue and really low periods of time thinking, “What’s the fucking point?” In this episode, we talk about coming off HRT, weight gain and fluid retention, why you don’t want to mess with a woman in her 50s and the transformational properties of overhauling your undies. You’ll never look at your knicker drawer in the same way again. You can find Kerry on IG @kerry_hales and her book ‘Life Lessons From Your Knicker Drawer’ is readily available.
Louise Pitman has a deep connection to her own body and a great understanding of others. She is the one person I have met who instinctively knew she was having her final period and could therefore predict her day of Menopause. When you hear how she moved from working in the criminal justice system, supporting men, to teaching yoga and giving womb massage, supporting women, you can see how supporting others is deeply rooted in her psyche. In this episode, we talk menopause symptoms, how Louise knew she was in Menopause and how she wants more men to understand and get involved. You can find Louise at https://louisepitmanyoga.com and on IG @louisepitmanwellbeing
Emma Skeates is not your average Menopausal woman and yet, if you’ve ever had a day where everything feels like it’s falling apart, she’ll make you feel like you’re in good company. Emma has a knack of making you laugh at all the mishaps that brain fog and insomnia can cause. She openly and candidly shares her mishaps and laughs at herself as much as anything. I mean, you’d have to if you went to the vet and forgot the dog, right?! In this episode, we discuss her Menopause symptoms, post hysterectomy, her forgetfulness, her solutions and her phenomenally popular books: ‘Confessions of a Menopausal Mayhem Mother’ and Mad Dogs and a Menopausal English Woman’. At the time of recording, she was just about to go on holiday, I think Greece had quite an adventure! You can find Emma on IG @menopausalmayhemmothers
Rhian Stephenson is a busy woman who manages to make other women’s lives less busy, less complicated and more vital. Formerly CEO of Psycle, she now runs her own company, ARTAH, as well as a young family, including a two year old daughter and a brand new baby girl. She grew up in Canada in a natropathic environment and was an accomplished athelete so it comes as no surprise that she lives and breathes fitness and overall health. In this episode, we discuss her keen interest in keeping women wonderful through Perimenopause and beyond, recognising that it is a demanding time of life when we need to feel our best and how nutrition and simple, highly effective supplements are at the core of great health. Rhian is offering all Real Menopause Talk listeners 10% off when they visit Artah: To access Rhian’s generous discount go to https://bit.ly/ARTAHRMT You can find Rhian at artah.co and on IG @artahhealth
Dr Shahzadi Harper started her career as an NHS GP but knew she had more to achieve in the future. She now runs The Harper Clinic which specialises in Menopause and is co-author of The Perimenopause Solution, which I highly recommend. Symptoms she sees in clients every day include low sex drive, low confidence and a general sense of having lost a sense of self, “Why should women lose their sparkle?” she asks. Women’s health needs greater attention. For example, erectile dysfunction has been addressed as a matter of importance over the years but Menopause affects every single woman, not just a select few. In this episode, we learn how Dr Harper set up her clinic - it’s probably not what you’re expecting! - and her vital ingredients for re-building confidence and how to feel lighter and brighter. You can find Dr Shahzadi Harper on IG @drshahzadiharper (The Perimenopause Doctor) and @theharperclinic
Laura Shuckburgh is the very embodiment creating a fresh start by following your instinct, heart and soul. She discovered Perimenopause when she found herself crippled by sudden out-of-the-blue anxiety, to the point where she had to stay in bed. After a lot of research and soul searching she took control and began her “Part 2” living life in a way she wanted and that fulfilled her and made her happy. In this episode, we find her in her camping car in the South of France on her great big adventure, coaching women through Perimenopause and Menopause, travelling and falling in love. You can find Laura on IG @marvellous_midlife and https://marvellousmidlife.co.uk
Linda Davidson enjoyed an acting career that spanned fifteen years, with enduring success in television and theatre. She retired from acting and entered the world of the internet and tech at a prime time when the world wide web was on the brink of world domination. She is now in Global Transformation, is a mentor to many and runs ground breaking programmes in tech and education as you will hear. In this episode, we talk anxiety, the disappearance of libido, the media’s role in normalising Menopause and the fact that, nearing her 58th birthday, she’s still kickin’ it.
Dr Nichola Conlon has cracked the code to reversing some of the effects of Perimenopause plus a whole lot more. “The effect that Perimenopause has on us in terms of ageing is quite shocking in terms of biological age.” She talks us through the science behind the role of estrogen in whole body function and what NAD+ can do for humans. Spoiler alert… reverse biological signs of decline in the brain and the whole of the physical body. It is a fascinating and exciting listen. As a younger woman, she shares her insights into Menopause which is food for thought for the generation coming up behind us. She has given all our listeners a Discount code to see the results from Nuchido Time + for ourselves. Just use code RMT10 at the checkout. https://nuchido.com You can find Nichola on IG @nuchido and @drnicholaconlon
Kim is a busy, successful woman in Perimenopause. She is a mum, a nan and a coach to many high performing women…who are often also going through Perimenopause. To HRT or not to HRT is a big question and has been for Kim herself. The request she get the most is, “Can I please have my smile back?” so Kim shares how she would suggest we might do this for ourselves and what is helping her with her own desire to come back to the joy in life. We discuss the changes in attitude towards hormone replacement therapy, including her own and all the ways to optimise your health with or without HRT. We also go into encouraging good energy and positive exercise plus the role that cortisol plays in the body and how it can exacerbate anxiety. She holds a wealth of knowledge and power and is ready to, “Bring The Fire” which, incidentally, is the title of her book coming out in September 2022 - so look out for it folks! “As Oestrogen drops, women give fewer monkeys about what other people think. They can be more honest.” You can find Kim @kimrainecoaching and at https://kimrainecoaching.com
Victoria is a mum of two, a wife and works for a large bank. She is a writer, content creator on IG and podcaster. She is also a fierce advocate for Women’s Health. At just 38, she is 4 years post hysterectomy and has had 19 operations due to severe endometriosis. Victoria tells a deeply moving story that sees her still finding her way through Menopause and all the challenges that brings, especially in terms of mental health. Despite her intense symptoms, she is a ray of light. Determined, vibrant and outgoing, she brings humour to even the darkest moments and is so open, humble and engaging, you can’t help but want to listen to what she has to say. She encourages women to ask questions - a lot of questions - and to know what you are entitled to and what an HRT check really looks like. “We need to see that Menopause has no gender, no age - it just needs understanding.” You can find Victoria on Instagram at @ginge_unhinged
Lee is a celebrated psychologist and wellbeing consultant, a radio host, award winning entrepreneur and proud dad. As a champion of Menopause awareness and education, Lee has been dubbed the Trojan Horse of Menopause - a moniker he is happy to adopt. In this episode, Lee opens up about how he has found triumph in the face of adversity and when his immune system failed him, how he found a deeper resilience becoming a father and learning to walk at the same time as his daughter learnt to walk. As a keen advocate for helping women stay in the workplace, he explains why a lack of Menopause understanding can be a barrier at board level and how men can approach Menopause with curiosity and sensitivity. “When you include men in the discourse, they start to recognise how important women are in their lives.” There is also a surprising silver lining for men as they discover more about women’s health… You can find Lee at https://essentialise.co.uk
Nicci is a married mum who was born here, grew up in South Africa and recently moved back to the UK. After her hysterectomy due to fibroids, she found herself barely capable of even the smallest daily tasks such as taking a shower and was totally unprepared for such a radical change to her character post op. In fact, she was unprepared full stop. She tells us of her deep struggle to regain control of herself, her life and work. This is essential listening for anyone who is about to have a hysterectomy of any sort or if you know someone who is. Her advice and her list of questions pre-surgery are absolutely essential and something everyone should know. Now a powerful Meno Warrior and advocate for women’s health, you can find Nicci @themwordandme
#MakeMenopauseMatter Diane is the OG Menopause Warrior. After her own incapacitating experience of Menopause, she decided that nobody should ever have to go through what she and her loved ones had to endure. From this, MenopauseSupport and the MakeMenopauseMatter campaign were born. In this episode, she tells her story and all I shall say at this point is, thank goodness for her dogs and her husband Martin. Diane and her team at Menopause Support work tirelessly to make the changes she wants to see and, to date, the MakeMenopauseMatter campaign has close on 200,000 signatures. As well as educating and changing the world for the better, she reminds us to look at ourselves, “Have you spent your whole life prioritising other people? Maybe you should move yourself up the list a little more. This can be a wonderful time of transition and transformation and is full of Opportunity.” You can find Diane, and please take a moment to SIGN & SHARE the petition at https://menopausesupport.co.uk and on IG @dianedanzebrink
Carolyn Harris is Menopause Royalty. As an MP she has orchestrated dramatic and ongoing change for the way Menopause is treated in the UK. HRT is already free in Wales and Scotland and a reduction in HRT prescription costs will come in for England in the near future. Undergoing her own Perimenopause was not simple. She was going through deepest grieving after the sudden loss of her son, Martin, working full time and running a home. She had been advising other women about Menopause but had not connected the dots for herself and put all her symptoms down to grief. In her current work as a Member of Parliament she is chair of the APPG and The Menopause Task Force making the difference in the workplace and in all realms of life for women globally, “We will change this”. There is so much more to say but it is better to hear it from Carolyn herself so download her Episode to hear how to, “Keep Women Wonderful.” Keep up to date on @carolynharrismp and at https://carolynharris.org.uk
Lavinia Winch knows what she is talking about and you instinctively feel you are in safe hands with her. She is happily married, a mother of three adult children, a grandmother and going to celebrate her 70th birthday this year. When Viagra came on to the market, did anyone ever think how it might impact Menopausal women? Lavinia will tell you. She explains here, the difference between vaginal moisturiser and lubricant as well as how to use them effectively. In her current work as an Ambassador for Yes Organics (there are only 2, so she’s pretty rare!) she has attended more than 200 Menopause Conferences. She also has her personal experience of Menopause followed by a Radical Hysterectomy at the age of 62 when she was diagnosed with endometrial cancer. She is kind, empathetic and deeply knowledgable. If you are holding an event or workshop, especially for those post cancer, she is a wonderful speaker. You can find Yes Organics and Ah!Yes https://yesyesyes.org for the UK https://ahyes.org for the US and @yes_organics on IG for UK and @ahyesorganics on IG for US You can also reach Lavinia directly on lavinia@yesyesyes.org
Katrine has travelled and worked as an osteopath and manual therapist all over the world, starting life in Canada and finally settling in London in the UK. As we know, reducing our stress is key to living a healthier, happier life. One of Katrine’s super powers is teaching Intelligent Stress Management - simple, practical, scientifically proven techniques that can be done anywhere. I’ve tried it - it works! By reducing stress, you are reducing inflammation and can do this just by putting yourself in a more positive space. This calms anxiety, reduces brain fog and hot flashes. In finding this time of Menopause a time of joy and peace, Katrine is full of positivity and wants us all to be able to live life with joy. Join her FREE event every last Wednesday of the month to discover some of this practical magic (it is wonderful and in 35 minutes you can learn a lot!): https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/weaddheart-london-mayfairmarylebone-online-tickets-253262965347 You can find Katrine on her website: https://kcmt.co.uk and on Instagram as @katrinecakuls
Dominique is a mother to two boys and Founder of Periwink. She has has a longterm preoccupation with longevity and health and started biohacking before it became a “thing”.She started lifting in her forties and won state and national records. Clearly already living a healthy lifestyle, her “Peri-slam” was just that, a total slam and when a vulture set up shop in her backyard, she knew she had to take action. From her Peri-slam, Dominique created Periwink: a series of lifestyle, health and movement programmes designed to support the Peri to Post Menopausal transition. She brings women together to train, cook and support one another and, above all, be part of a solid community. You can find her short 5 days courses, 9 week programmes and so much more at: https://periwink.me and on Instagram as @periwink.me
Elizabeth Joseph has declared herself a Menopause Guinea Pig. I n an attempt to combat her debilitating Perimenopause symptoms, she was willing to give anything a go. And now… you name it, she’s tried it from taping and tapping to fart pants and hormone yoga. If she hasn’t discovered it yet, it may not even exist. She has been so open and brutally honest about her entire experience of Perimenopause that she has connected with thousands of women who feel just like she does. Emerging as ‘a great big chuffing butterfly’ from seismic wobbles, she is living proof that this is the time in our lives we get to have some fun and reinvent ourselves. She makes us laugh, inspires and keeps it real. Find her accounts and reports on @elizabethjosephnavigating
Dr Terry specialises in hormonal acne, aesthetic treatments and hormonal balance, especially for Perimenopause and Menopause. She has an impressive list of highly respected medical credentials and is a working mother who understands the pressures and stresses of modern day life. She shares her experience of Perimenopause, what she does to take care of herself and maintain optimum health. She is a fierce believer that you should do what you need to do to make yourself happy, without fear of judgement and to, “Eat Well, Rest Well, Love Well.” You can find Dr Terry at: https://drterryloong.com and @dr_terry_
Louise is a full time TCM Practitioner and mother based in Newcastle Upon Tyne. Her passion is endometriosis and she treats many, many women for fertility. As she grows with her patients and enters Perimenopause herself, she is seeing more evidence of this in her clinic. Insomnia is the symptom that she battles with the most at the moment but she sees it regularly in clinic as well. The trouble with Perimenopause is that there are often fewer physical symptoms and more emotional and mental ones that take their toll. The often dismissed lack of joy, for example but this can be huge, “I want some joy back”, she says. For this reason, she urges us to talk to our partners and others so that they can better understand and support. She is happy to see changes in perception of Menopause beginning to happen: “It’s women changing the narrative now.” You can find Louise at: https://louisecollyeracupuncture.co.uk
Rhiannon runs her own divorce consultancy. Previously a family law solicitor, she now provides practical help and emotional support to people struggling with divorce or separation. In this episode, we cover A LOT. Not only is Rhiannon’s Perimenopause story fascinating but her relationship perspective and advice is gold. A couple of years ago, Rhiannon underwent a hysterectomy, keeping her ovaries. Post operation, she was left with no support other than how to manage after any surgery. It wasn’t until she broke both her ankles and had a bone density scan, that someone recommended HRT. Perimenopause hadn’t been something she talked about much but as she opens up more, her friends are beginning to do the same. Professionally, she has noticed divorce ‘symptoms’ and Perimenopause symptoms have much in common which can be something to consider before making any big relationship decisions. If you are having relationship challenges, or know someone who is, you will want to hear every word Rhiannon has to say and keep her right by your side. You can find Rhiannon at: https://rhiannonford.co.uk @thedivorcenavigator
Susan is a Dyslexia Tutor , mother of three grown-up children (aged 17 - 24) and a Specialist Menopause Yoga Teacher. She is some years Post Menopause and shares her retrospective experience of Peri all the way through to Post Menopause and reflects on what she may have done differently with the knowledge she has today. We have come a long way from women ‘having a turn’ and being sent to a sanatorium but we are still at the tip of the iceberg. She says of midlife, “It’s great! The future looks good. We have so much life to live” You can reach Susan at: susanbowman09@sky.com
Lucy Goff lives London with her husband, daughter and dog. She is not phased by Perimenopause because she knows she has a way through. In this episode she explains that she never envisaged setting up her own company but her own illness lead her down a route to healing that was so powerful that she decided to bring the solution to genuine wellbeing to market. She says of midlife, “It’s the first time in your life when you start to take a real look at what’s working and what’s not.” This ethos of products that disrupt broken markets and show us what really works is what drives her to new creations. You can find Lyma at https://lyma.life
Dr Andie Siggers is a GP and Functional Medicine Practitioner. Carol Milliner is a Health and Lifestyle Coach. They make up half of Change The Change. They each have two children and an impressive passion for fitness having run ultra marathons together. It was this friendship and Perimenopause discussions through running that brought the team together to change the way Menopause was managed. With experts in Nutrition, Fitness, Lifestyle and Medicine, they look at the whole picture of how a woman can restore her whole being mentally and physically and give her ‘health for life’. Neither of them had the ‘traditional’ hot flashes: Andie was poleaxed by uncharacteristic and debilitating exhaustion and Carol found many symptoms creeping into her life. Andie gives us an insight as to why the UK GP system operates as it does with regards to Menopause and tells us how to talk to your GP successfully. To find them visit: https://changethechange.co.uk @change_thechange
Herschel “Buzz” Peddicord lives and works in Wisconsin, USA. He has dedicated his life to female pelvic health. His mother challenged him to find a solution to her many night time visits to the bathroom…so he did. We discuss the two types of incontinence, sexual health and what Buzz has created to solve all of these problems that women can encounter after childbirth and in later life. He describes why incontinence occurs and why it is so important to address it sooner rather than later. “I think that 50 and above is Prime Time for women and you should be able to enjoy it.” He also has a few words to say about what men can do to support the women in their lives. You can find Buzz at https://incontrolmedical.com
Charlotte is a Menopause Nutritionist with an astounding knowledge of hormones and their wide ranges of functions. Due to a myriad of health issues, she underwent a rather sudden hysterectomy at the age of 44 and overnight went into Menopause, feeling as though she had been ‘hit by a bus’. She tells us of her GP’s reaction to her HRT prescription and then throws divorce into the mix as well. Tune in to find out how she supported her health and managed her way through this period of her life. Having always been interested in nutrition, she has a wealth of experience both professionally and personally. Charlotte specialised very early on in Menopause and the management of hormones through food, either in conjunction with HRT or without. She takes a holistic approach to her clients and always looks at the Big Picture to optimise health and wellbeing. To find Charlotte visit: Current website: https://charlottehunternutrition.co.uk Future website (coming soon): https://mymenopausenutritionist.com Enquiries: hello@charlottehunternutrition.co.uk
Charlotte Cave is an exceptional hairdresser. She treats everyone as though they were a good friend and her best client, as do the rest of her team. When you leave her chair, you feel as though you could take on the world and all that it may throw at you…glamorously. She owns two salons in South London, is a wife and a mother to two sons. In this Episode, Charlotte is contagiously candid about her experience of Peri to Post Menopause and shares her lowest ebbs with humour and grace. She also tells us that most of us are washing out hair wrong - erm, guilty! - and how to do it so that even with the hormonal changes we undergo as we get older, we can have beautiful tresses. Hair is deeply important to how many of us feel about ourselves and she gives great advice on how to care for it at home so it feels and looks great. If you fancy trying out her magic in person, you can find her at https://charlottecave.com
Christine and her husband Christophe own a magnificent tourist estate that can accommodate 42 people and receptions for up to 100 and an adjacent restaurant in the South of France. It’s the sort of place that if you stay there, you can’t help but feel great by the time you leave. Between them they have four grown-up sons, two cats and a selection of chickens. In this Episode, Christine shines a light on her experience of the French attitude towards Menopause including doctors, men and women. Her own knowledge of Perimenopause and onwards was limited to the cessation of periods and a vague notion of women sweating. Around the same time as moving to Mas des Oules, the menopause entered her life... unawares. Nobody talks about menopause around her, so when the first symptoms came on (problems sleeping, concentrating, excessive anxiety, slow digestion), she didn't make the connection. She didn't understand what was happening to her, associating it with depression when she was having one of the happiest times of her life... She is a true advocate for talking up when nobody else is and she is passionate about preparing young women so that they are not scared and are simply prepared. Her Instagram is a peek into Mas des Oules and a visual treat: @masdesoules
Gia is a renowned and highly regarded Make-Up Artist having worked with ‘A List’ actors, models and singers, worked on editorial for the likes of Vanity Fair and Vogue as well as high profile advertising campaigns. When she discovered a staggering 75% of women are put off exercise for fear of being judged on their appearance, she decided something had to be done. She created Skin In Motion, a cruelty-free, vegan skin care and make-up line designed specifically to stay put during exercise and for Menopause. “It just gives you that little boost of confidence.” Gia is offering 20% off all products (what a treat!) which are not only great in themselves, but come beautifully packaged and will make you smile. Simply go to https://skininmotion.com and use code REAL20 at the checkout. But hurry as the offer expires 11/02/22 :-) And go to Instagram for top tips: @skin.in.motion Skin In Motion is a Founding Partner of GenM who we interviewed in Season 1, Ep17
Outside of Instagram, Lotti is a mother of two, a wife and works in safeguarding in a secondary school. Inside Instagram, she documents her experiences of Perimenopause with great candour and humour. In this Episode, she shares the fear she felt when, out of the blue, her mind was filled with dark and intrusive thoughts; it was tough and upsetting because she couldn’t rationalise anything about these thoughts, why they were there or where they had come from. Lotti details how she combatted these and the many other Perimenopause symptoms. Check her out on Instagram: @moodswingsandotherthings She’s the hilarious friend you need at this time of life :-)
Julie works independently and alongside Sarah Davison who you may remember as our homeopath from Season 1’s Episode 15. Julie’s first symptoms of Perimenopause were night sweats but when she went to her GP, he told her that his wife also had those and he was going to send her for a chest x-ray. She tells us where she went from there. Julie shares her professional tips for how to manage Menopause well, why all the food groups are good for us and she has a surprising hack for restoring your energy. You can find Julie on Instagram: @NutriTherapi
Benvon is a skilled COO and mother of three. She tells us of her deeply intense years of Perimenopause when she was entirely unaware of what was happening to her. She felt as though she was genuinely losing her mind and became so ill that she even feared she was dying. When she finally sought help, the doctor discovered a complete lack of oestrogen in her body and she was then gradually able to come back to herself, her life and her family. She is an advocate for talking about Menopause and its wide range of symptoms and for supporting women of this life stage as we are a terrific talent pool and not to be ignored!
Karen Arthur is a Fashion Creative and podcast host of Menopause Whilst Black, she is also a mum, a grandmother and creator of Wear Your Happy ® In this first Episode of Season 2, she shares with us how she went from a busy, fulfilling and dynamic career as a teacher to closing herself off due to the onset of Menopause and addresses what it is to be Black and Menopausal. To get her through, she gave herself the greatest gift she could have done at this time: therapy. Karen decided she would “curate a life I love” which has lead her to all the things that fill her life currently and you can see all the vibrant beauty for yourself on her pages and sites. Take a look!
Lisa is a skilled Entrepreneur and mother. She leads a busy, fun life and believes we all have to have more fun! Her experience of Perimenopause has been a very uncomfortable series of urinary tract infections which lead her to through investigation of causes and treatments. She is a true advocate of taking care of your vaginal and gut flora as it can truly impact your quality of life. Vaginal dryness is nothing to be ashamed about, it is just a physical symptom that can be looked after. “One minute you’re fine, then all of a sudden it’s like a desert! We need to talk about this more because it is so important and all part of women’s health.”
Lily is a Registered Nutritionist and works predominantly in London. She has first hand experience of medicine is food, curing herself through nutrition from chronic psoriasis when she was a child. She supports her clients through the right foods, being an advocate for the Mediterranean diet as a broad protocol, and through supplementation. Lily talks us through the key foundations to good health especially through Peri to Post Menopause. You can find her at https://lilysoutternutrition.com
Janice is a vibrant, successful, active working mother of two. Born in the UK, she lived in America growing up and is now back in the UK. She had intense joint pain to the point where it was difficult for her to walk far, her periods were so intense she would barely leave home for these few days and she experienced immense fatigue. All of this began to make sense when she discovered she had zero sex hormones in her blood stream. She tells us how she coped, where she is at now and how she sees her future.
Two pioneers of the Menopause Revolution, Sam Simister & Heather Jackson tell us their personal experiences and how that lead to the birth of GenM. They are leading the way for companies and individuals to recognise Menopause and the 15.5million women in the UK plus millions more around the world who feel underserved and actually holding these companies to account to take action. This is about collaboration, for everyone from the individual, to the company to the consumer and all genders to get the very most out of the Menopausal woman and all that she has to offer. Listen in to find out how we can all do more to revitalise and normalise this life phase and go to https://gen-m.com
Kimberly was born in the mid-West in the US and currently lives in California. She is mother to two sons and a daughter, writes a blog and went to college whilst home-schooling her daughter and working full time. Having come to Perimenopause completely unaware and unprepared, she found the symptoms both baffling and challenging until she decided to use Google as her best friend and teacher. This process shone a light so bright on her life that she had to address things she had long tried to bury and with this she found healing and her silver lining. She speaks kindly and compassionately so that other women may be prepared. “Give yourself a little grace…or a lot of grace at this time.”
Sarah is a fully qualified Homeopath, Coach and Natural Menopause Expert. This Episode is a ‘must’ for anyone seeking a natural way to be supported through Peri to Post Menopause. Sarah explains how there is great complexity to natural medicine - did you know there are 551 remedies for hot flashes alone?! - and self prescribing is very hit and miss. By addressing the individual holistically, it is very possible to have a healthy, happy natural Menopause.
Meg Black is a mother of four, born in New Zealand and now living in the UK. Her mother was part of the 1990’s study into HRT which had a massive impact on her family. Meg talks to us about how she has chosen to navigate her own Menopause treatment. Meg is wonderfully positive and a real action taker; it’s great to listen to her take on pregnancy and Menopause and some of the perhaps surprising similarities between the two.
Kate Codrington is a woman of many talents: Menopause Mentor, Workshop Facilitator, Podcaster, Writer and Therapist. In this episode, Kate talks us through some simple steps that we can take to guide us through the sometimes turbulent times of Perimenopause. She reassures us that messiness and shame is universal which is such a relief! She encourages us to find communities where people are real and honest about their experiences and reveals how this system of Peri to Post Menopause works, leading us to our Second Spring which is, “bloody great!” Kate’s first book, ‘Second Spring - The Guide To Self Care For Menopause’ comes out on 17th February 2022, published by Harper Collins.
Matilda Gill is a freelance Film Producer and mother of two teenagers. She went through early Menopause at the age of just 36 which is about 10 years earlier than average. She shares with us how this has affected her and her view of life today. Matilda is the very embodiment of “Menopause doesn’t make you old” and she tells us exactly why.
Pamela Windle is a fully qualified Women’s Health Coach specialising in Nutrition and Hormones, Gut Health and overall wellbeing. With additional tools such as NLP and Hypnotherapy, there is nothing she cannot improve. Her story is inspiring and uplifting and offers jewels of information essential to your Peri to Post Menopause toolkit. She talks us through how she combatted a debilitating illness and how she now helps women improve their health and transition with strength and power through the Menopause.
Vicki Baker is a mother to two teenagers and a professional gardener. She provides us with another aspect of Menopause - not everyone has to suffer through it. Honesty and openness are essential components to this conversation and speaking up is what will make a difference to women everywhere. Hearing another aspect of Menopause, that it really isn’t a big deal for all of us and at the same time, having enormous compassion for those that do struggle with this life stage.
Sophie Fletcher is a clinical hypnotherapist and Bestselling Author of three books, the latest of which is Mindful Menopause. Her book (and audiobook), offers accessible tools to understand what is happening in your mind and body throughout Peri to Post Menopause. These tools enable women to erase specific symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia and hot flushes. There are plenty of brilliantly helpful free downloads too! She shares with us her experience of this life phase, how she lost her hair and identity with it and now loves the bright white mane that is reviving. She tells us how she navigates her way through the transition with grace and fun.
Kate danced professionally in Russia and for the Royal National Ballet in the UK. She is now a mother of two, runs her own ballet school and lives with her children, her husband and her dog Sydney.
She shares with us, her experience of dancing and the pressures on young girls at that time to remain a certain size and weight and the impact that this had on her body. She also talks to us about her experience and that of those around her of the menopause.
Jo Darling is a women’s health expert, oncology expert and founder of Menopoised®. She has produced, tiny jewel-like magnets which take the heat out of Menopause, using acupressure points on the body, some sublime essential oil blends to alleviate other symptoms and has more exciting products in the pipeline. These are proven to work for 80% of women and look beautiful at the same time.
Sophie runs her own graphic design company, has a husband, three sons and a tremendous support network which has guided her and buoyed her through her Menopause journey.
She talks to us about her previous knowledge of symptoms, her own experience and shares strategies and lifestyle changes that have helped her through this transition.
Helen’s credentials as Chief Marketing Officer for companies such as the Ofcom, the BBC, DFS and Boots mean that she has a keen understanding of people and what they need. Combining this with her own needs and following her motto of ‘Feel the Fear and do it anyway!”, she and her close friend Dr Clare Spencer set up My Menopause Centre, an online resource for women all over the world to understand their symptoms of Peri to Post Menopause and ultimately, should they wish, start on HRT.
Helen discusses the Menopause in the workplace, what needs to change and how we can go about this. She shares her own experience of Perimenopause and describes just how My Menopause Centre came to be, “It’s just too important.”
Peggy has lived in the US, India and currently, the UK. She talks of her personal experience of going through the Menopause whilst raising a family, lecturing and travelling for research. She explains her keys symptoms, what she found when she sought help and what is working for her now.
As always, please get in touch to share your story and to let us know how you’re getting on.
Rebekah Brown, founder of M Powder, talks to us about her experience of Perimenopause, how it affected her at work, her family life and what ultimately led her to create M Powder.
We hear about her journey from de-hydrating fruit and vegetables in her kitchen to running a successful and ever-growing company that provides the first powder supplement range for each stage of Menopause - all of which have been developed with doctors and natropaths and trialled and verified by women in the community.
She shares her tips on thriving through this stage of life and the change she would like to see in the world.
Visit her online store for more information on her blends and, as ever, drop us an email to tell us how you’re doing.