Why’s menopause still a whispered secret? I’m joined by Tamsen Fadal, Emmy-winning journalist turned advocate, behind The M Factor documentary and her book How to Menopause (out March 2025). She exposes the raw truth: her brain fog struggles, dismissive doctors, and the staggering fact that a billion women navigate this, yet we’re left in the dark. We dig into the taboo, how menopause shakes up work and relationships, and those unexplainable heavy, sweaty moments. Tamsen flips it with real fixes—morning walks, strength training, and rejecting ageism. It’s a gritty, joyful call to own this wild chapter of mid-life. Get your copy of Tamsen’s much anticipated book here . Follow Tamsen on Instagram . Owning Your Menopause is produced by Urban Podcasts .…

How does poor sleep affect your mental and physical health during menopause, and what can you do about it? In this episode, I chat with sleep expert Kathryn Pinkham, founder of the Insomnia Clinic, to uncover the real connection between menopause and sleep. Kathryn explains how hormonal shifts—particularly the drop in progesterone and oestrogen—can seriously mess with your sleep. Many women get stuck in a frustrating loop of stress, anxiety, and fatigue, making restful nights even more elusive. She shares practical, research-backed tips to improve your sleep, like resetting your body clock and changing your sleep mindset. Plus, we talk through common challenges like hot flashes and anxiety, and how they can keep you awake. If menopause has been stealing your sleep, Kathryn’s advice—on everything from bedtime routines to managing stress, diet, and exercise—can help you finally get the rest you deserve. Kathryn Pinkham is the founder of The Insomnia Clinic , the UK’s leading service for insomnia. She has been featured on ITV, partners with David Lloyd Clubs and worked with major organisations including Lloyd Bank, JP Morgan, Deloitte and the NHS, to help individuals and employees improve their sleep and overall well-being. You can follow Kathryn on Instagram. Owning Your Menopause listeners will benefit from Kathryn’s Sleep Well Live Better coursefor £99 at this link. Owning Your Menopause is produced by Urban Podcasts .…

What if we could break the silence and change the conversation about menopause and perimenopause? In this episode, I sit down with Davinia Taylor, a former actress turned wellness advocate, who’s making waves in biohacking and hormone health. Davinia sharesher journey from struggling with fatigue and hormonal imbalances to creating Will Powders, a line of clean wellness products designed to help women take charge of their health. We explore the often-overlooked aspects of perimenopause, like insulin resistance and the effects of poor food choices on hormone balance. Davinia explains how biohacking—using innovative gadgets and lifestyle changes—can help women navigate this stage of life with energy and confidence. Along the way, we discuss her approach to food, fitness, and the importance of hormone regulation in living a vibrant life, free from the outdated menopause myths. Born in Lancashire in the late 1970s, Davinia Taylor, founder of WillPowders , is a globally renowned biohacking pioneer, champion of women’s health and longevity, and a double Sunday Times Number One best-selling author of It’s Not a Diet and Hack Your Hormones . A proud recovering alcoholic, and in her words, an Accidental CEO, Davinia Taylor is a determined force to be reckoned with. Learn more and follow Davinia on Instagram . Owning Your Menopause is produced by Urban Podcasts .…

How can exercise and strength training transform the recovery process after breast cancer and menopause? In this episode, I sit down with Sarah Newman, the founder of Get Me Back, a fitness programme designed to help women rebuild strength and confidence after breast cancer. Sarah, having gone through her own cancer journey, now uses her experience to empower women to regain their physical and mental health through tailored exercise routines. Sarah shares how cancer treatment impacts the body—losing muscle mass, joint pain, and the fatigue that often follows—and how strength training can make all the difference. She explains how her programme has been designed to cater to those at different stages of recovery, from those just starting to reclaim their strength to those who are a few years post-treatment. We explore the importance of rebuilding trust in your body after cancer, the role of strength training in supporting bone health, and how exercise can help manage the challenging symptoms of menopause. Sarah also sheds light on the often-overlooked impact of chemotherapy on mental health and cognitive function, revealing how exercise can significantly improve cognition and mood. Owning Your Menopause are delighted to have collaborated with Sarah and Get Me Back to offer members and non-members alike her Breast Cancer Fitness Recovery Program: Listeners can learn more here . If you or someone you know is navigating recovery after breast cancer or menopause, Sarah’s insights will give you practical advice on how to approach fitness, boost confidence, and regain control over your health: Follow Sarah on Instagram at @getmeback . Owning Your Menopause is produced by Urban Podcasts .…

How does pelvic health impact your overall well-being, particularly during menopause? In this episode, I speak with Clare Bourne, a highly respected physiotherapist who specialises in pelvic health. She shares invaluable insights into the often-overlooked connection between pelvic floor health, menopause, and overall physical and emotional well-being. Clare breaks down the myths surrounding pelvic health and how hormonal changes during menopause, especially the decline in estrogen, affect the pelvic floor, and the broader implications this has on bladder, bowel, and sexual health. Clare highlights the importance of early intervention and the benefits of strengthening the pelvic floor before issues arise. With a focus on educating women about the significance of pelvic health, she shares how a holistic approach to well-being—incorporating gut health, bone density, and mental health—can support long-term health. She offers actionable tips for improving pelvic health through lifestyle changes, including hydration, fibre intake, and exercise, while emphasising the critical link between pelvic floor strength and maintaining an active, independent life. Clare Bourne is a specialist pelvic health physiotherapist and author of Strong Foundations , based in London, with a passion to support women and men throughout their lives. She believes in talking openly about taboo topics and ensuring everyone feels comfortable to get support even for problems that may feel embarrassing to talk about. She worked extensively in the NHS before starting up her own private practice. She is a Mum of 2 and has learnt first hand the importance of care and support during the perinatal period. She is also co-founder of the Pelvic Health Practice , a specialist team of pelvic health physios providing home visits across London. To learn more, you can follow Clare on Instagram. Owning Your Menopause is produced by Urban Podcasts .…

In this episode, Rebekah Brown, the founder of Liminal, shares her inspiring journey from corporate life to creating a wellness brand dedicated to supporting women through the challenges of menopause. Discover how her own messy, unspoken journey with perimenopause ignited a passion to help other women find balance and agency in this transformative stage of life. Rebekah shares the importance of blending personal experience with scientific research to create supportive products and a community where women can feel heard and empowered. She reflects on the societal norms around aging and the unique challenges women face when navigating midlife, and how, despite the struggles, there is a huge opportunity for personal growth, health, and well-being. Through Liminal, Rebekah is shifting the narrative around menopause, encouraging women to embrace their changing bodies and rewrite their stories. Learn about the power of self-care, listening to your body, and creating a supportive community as part of a wellness journey that is not just about surviving menopause but thriving through it. To learn more about Liminal visit their website or follow them on Instagram You can also use the code OYM15 for 15% off across the site! Owning Your Menopause is produced Urban Podcasts .…

What happens when we finally start to embrace the uncomfortable truths in life? In this episode of Owning Your Menopause, I’m joined by the inspiring Anna Martha, bestselling author, speaker, and podcaster. We delve into her own personal journey of vulnerability, burnout, and self-acceptance, and explore how embracing life’s challenges can lead to a more authentic, fulfilling life. Anna shares her experiences of navigating motherhood, mental health, and career changes, drawing from her latest book, The Uncomfortable Truth. We also discuss the vital importance of setting boundaries, prioritising self-care, and overcoming the pressures that many women face as they enter midlife. From battling the guilt of not always being ‘present’ for our families to acknowledging our own emotional needs, this conversation reveals powerful insights on how to better care for ourselves—physically and mentally—during life’s most demanding seasons. Anna’s vulnerability and candidness open up a much-needed discussion about the harsh truths women encounter, from the challenges of motherhood to recognising when it’s time to take care of ourselves before others. Anna Mathur is a psychotherapist, bestselling author, and speaker dedicated to making mental health support accessible to everyone. With a passion for taking therapy beyond the consulting room, Anna shares her personal and professional insights through books, her popular podcast The Therapy Edit , online courses, and a vibrant presence on social media. Her podcast has surpassed 3 million downloads, featuring conversations with prominent guests such as Fearne Cotton and Liz Earle. Her latest book, The Uncomfortable Truth , explores how embracing life's uncertainties can transform fear into empowerment, offering practical tools to navigate worry and anxiety. This joins her previous works, including Mind Over Mother and Know Your Worth , which address themes of self-worth, motherhood, and mental well-being. Follow Anna on Instagram @annamathur for daily insights, or explore her work further on her website. You can purchase The Uncomfortable Truth on Amazon. Owning Your Menopause is produced by Urban Podcasts .…

Could the secret to thriving through menopause lie in your gut? Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Dr. Megan Rossi, internationally recognized as The Gut Health Doctor and one of the UK’s leading experts in gut health. In this episode, Dr. Rossi unveils the powerful connection between your gut and menopause, sharing how gut health can influence everything from weight gain and digestion to mood and mental clarity during this transformative time. Discover how changes in the gut microbiome—the trillions of bacteria in your gut—can worsen menopausal symptoms and what you can do to restore balance. Dr. Rossi explains why a plant-rich diet is key to supporting your gut, improving hormone regulation, and enhancing overall well-being. You’ll also learn practical tips for managing bloating, stress, and low mood with simple dietary tweaks. From the role of fiber and prebiotics to the surprising benefits of fermented foods, Dr. Rossi shares science-backed strategies to help you reclaim control of your health and feel your best. 💡 Don’t miss this empowering episode—it’s packed with actionable advice and fresh insights into how your gut can be a game-changer during menopause. ➡️ Learn more about Dr. Megan Rossi and her work: The Gut Health Doctor . ➡️ Follow her on Instagram: @TheGutHealthDoctor .…

How can self-care be a catalyst for growth during menopause rather than a source of guilt or shame? In this episode of the Owning Your Menopause podcast, I sit down with Suzy Reading, a chartered psychologist, yoga teacher, and author, to explore the vital role of self-care during this significant life transition. With her wealth of professional knowledge and personal experiences, Suzy provides invaluable insight into how women can embrace this stage of life with resilience and mindfulness. We discuss how reframing menopause as a time for growth and reinvention can empower women to navigate the challenges with grace. Suzy shares her unique blend of relaxation techniques, mindful movement, and psychological strategies, offering listeners practical tools to enhance their emotional and physical well-being. We also explore the guilt many women feel around self-care and how societal pressures can make rest seem indulgent, when in fact, it’s essential healthcare. From developing a daily rhythm to embracing gentle movement and adapting to winter’s introspective qualities, Suzy offers actionable advice to help women honour their bodies and minds. Her latest book, Self-Care for Winter , provides further guidance on nurturing our environment and embracing the need for rest during the colder months. Our conversation is a refreshing reminder that menopause is not just a challenging phase but also an opportunity for reinvention, self-exploration, and deeper connection to oneself. Suzy is a mother of two, an author, Chartered Psychologist and yoga teacher. She specialises in self-care, helping people manage their stress, emotions, and energetic bank balance. It was her life experience of motherhood colliding with the terminal illness of her father that sparked her passion for self-care which she now teaches to her clients, young and old, to cope during periods of stress, loss and change and to boost their resilience in the face of future challenges. Her first book ‘ The Self-Care Revolution ’ published by Aster came out in 2017 and she’s had the opportunity to write extensively on how to nourish yourself, with titles including 'Stand Tall Like a Mountain: Mindfulness & Self-Care for Children and Parents ', 'The Little Book of Self-Care ’, ‘ Self-Care for Tough Times ’ , her first children’s book ‘ This Book Will (Help) Make You Happy ’, her first journal And Breathe , her first deck of cards, “ The Little Box of Self-Care ’, followed by Sit to Get Fit and Rest to Reset . Her latest book Self-care for Winter was published earlier this year. Join Suzy’s Wellbeing Community on Instagram or suzyreading.co.uk . Owning Your Menopause is produced by Urban Podcasts .…

Have you ever wondered about the hidden connections between gut health, hormones, and the rollercoaster of perimenopause? In this episode, I’m joined by Cat Sims—content creator, author, and podcast host—as we dive into the profound impact of hormonal shifts on our minds and bodies. Together, we uncover how perimenopause can disrupt gut health, triggering symptoms from anxiety to insomnia, and we share practical lifestyle tips to help ease the journey. Cat opens up about her own struggles, from navigating sobriety and sugar addiction to balancing the demands of motherhood with ADHD, breaking down the societal pressures women face in midlife. We also tackle the importance of mental health, sharing candid stories and insights on how support, self-care, and lifestyle adjustments can make all the difference. Follow Cat on Instagram , TikTok and Substack . With Thanks to the sponsors of the episode, The Better Menopause . Owning Your Menopause is produced by Urban Podcasts .…

Have you ever wondered how the right nutrition can transform your menopause experience?In this episode of the Owning Your Menopause, Rhiannon Lambert, an illustrious nutritionist and champion for women's health joins me. Rhiannon shares the critical nutrients that every menopausal woman needs and busts the myths surrounding weight loss and dieting. We also explore the importance of unsaturated fats, plant-based proteins, and redefining our relationship with food, amidst societal messages and modern dietary fads. Learn how to take charge of your menopause adventure with wisdom, compassion, and a plate full of vibrant, nutrient-rich foods, redefining what it means to truly thrive. You can join the Owning Your Menopause online community, which will help you navigate your way positively and confidently through menopause to thrive in midlife. If you’re inspired by Rhi and her words, you’ll find plenty more of them in her most recent book, The Science of Plant Based Nutrition. The Owning Your Menopause podcast is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts .…

Have you ever wondered how you can take charge of your health during the tumultuous journey of perimenopause? In this episode, we’re joined by Pauline Cox, a functional nutritionist and a dedicated advocate for women's health. Together, we explore the transformative phase of perimenopause, shedding light on the intricate relationship between hormonal balance and nutrition. Pauline shares her personal journey through hormonal fluctuations, revealing the fears many women face and how education can empower them to reclaim control over their health. With her wealth of knowledge, she offers practical strategies that women can easily implement to navigate this critical stage. Curious about supplements? Pauline provides insights into essential nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and vitamin D, explaining how they can support hormonal health. Pauline Cox is a highly respected nutritionist, author, and speaker dedicated to empowering people through functional medicine and optimal health practices. With a deep focus on hormonal health, nutrition, and lifestyle medicine, Pauline’s work emphasizes evidence-based strategies for vibrant health and longevity. She co-founded Sow & Arrow , a health-focused company that provides nourishing, whole-food products, and educational resources. Pauline is also the author of Primal Living in a Modern World , where she explores ancestral health practices and their role in achieving optimal well-being. Her engaging, science-backed approach to nutrition and wellness has made her a sought-after speaker and educator across various platforms. You can learn more about Pauline’s work and health philosophies on her website or connect with her on Instagram for tips on nutrition, lifestyle, and wellness. With Thanks to the sponsors of the episode, The Better Menopause . Owning Your Menopause is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts .…

Could childhood experiences shape our emotions during menopause? In this episode of Owning Your Menopause, I sit down with psychodynamic coach Lavinia Brown to explore the deep connection between unresolved childhood traumas and the emotional rollercoaster that many women face during perimenopause. Lavinia opens up about her own journey, from battling eating disorders to finding healing through inner child work. We explore the idea of "small t trauma"—the subtle yet significant emotional wounds we carry from childhood—and how these unresolved issues can resurface during menopause, leading to feelings of anger, anxiety, or confusion. Lavinia shares insights on tracking your cycle, recognising emotional patterns, and understanding how our children can mirror unresolved emotions. We also discuss how modern parenting dynamics have evolved, with children today being more vocal and emotionally aware than previous generations. Connect with Lavinia Website Instagram YouTube Facebook Explore Lavinia's programmes Signature Holistic Healing Cycle awareness/tracking You can join the Owning Your Menopause online community, which will help you navigate your way positively and confidently through menopause to thrive in midlife. The Owning Your Menopause podcast is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts .…

In this episode of Owning Your Menopause, I sit down with the remarkable Tamzin Outhwaite—an acclaimed actress and the founder of the charity We Free Women. Tamsin takes us on an incredible journey, sharing her experiences from her early days in amateur dramatics to her remarkable success on stage, TV, and film. We explore how her career has evolved and how the landscape of women’s roles in acting is changing, particularly as they age and navigate the transformative phase of menopause. Tamzin opens up about the pressures female actors face around appearance and age, and how the industry is slowly but surely changing. She shares her own experiences with perimenopause, how the pandemic sparked a journey of self-discovery, and why community and support are essential during this phase. Tamzin's perspective is a powerful reminder that self-care, shedding societal expectations and finding strength in solidarity allows us to uplift one another and transform menopause into a time of rediscovery and renewed purpose. You can join the Owning Your Menopause online community, which will help you navigate your way positively and confidently through menopause to thrive in midlife. This episode is sponsored by liveliminal.com , use code OYM15 to get 15% off. The Owning Your Menopause podcast is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts .…

What if menopause could be a time of empowerment rather than a daunting transition? In this episode of Owning Your Menopause , I sit down with the incredible Jools Oliver—a multifaceted entrepreneur, mother of five, and soon-to-be midwife—to explore how she's navigating the complexities of midlife with grace, humor, and resilience. Jools shares her personal journey through motherhood, mental health challenges, and the often-overlooked experience of perimenopause. We talk about her 24-year marriage celebration that took her from the Maldives to an Elvis-themed vow renewal in Las Vegas, and how the evolving needs of her children add new layers to her role as a mother. We dive deep into mental health, discussing the heightened anxiety many women face during menopause and how Jools has managed her own fears, especially after battling long COVID. Jools shares her mother’s inspiring commitment to fitness at 83, proving the lifelong benefits of staying active. You can join the Owning Your Menopause online community, which will help you navigate your way positively and confidently through menopause to thrive in midlife. This episode is sponsored by liveliminal.com , use code OYM15 to get 15% off. The Owning Your Menopause podcast is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts .…