Real Menopause Talk

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

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

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

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

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

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