Simply Nourish: Empowering women through menopause and beyond

In this episode, I host a panel discussion with menopause GP Dr Victoria Price and two women sharing lived experience, Maria Cairns & Julia Burt. Together we explore the science, symptoms, and real-life impact of menopause, along with practical ways to support health, energy, and wellbeing through midlife. An honest, supportive conversation designed to help women feel informed and empowered through this important life transition. We will have to come back for part 2 as we only just got started!https://www.simplynourish.co.nz/https://www.instagram.com/simplynourishnz

Kerri Baker doesn’t mince words — she’s raw, real, and relentless. From 105kg in 2019 to stepping on the bodybuilding stage at 50, she shares the grit, discipline, sacrifices, and criticism behind her transformation. No shortcuts, just hard work, pride, and a midlife reinvention that proves it’s never too late to chase strength and purpose.https://www.simplynourish.co.nzhttps://www.facebook.com/simplynourish https://www.instgram.com/simplynourishnz

Sports dietitian Jaqueline Shang joins Simply Nourish to discuss nutrition for menopausal athletes including pre-imposed workout fueling, recovery, supplements, bone and muscle health, and the hidden impact of undereating. A practical and empowering conversation for women who want to stay strong and active in midlife and beyond.https://www.simplynourish.co.nz/https://www.bbgbuilt.co.nz@thetennisdietitian

In Part 2 of this inspiring conversation, Annie returns to share more from her extraordinary Te Araroa journey and life on the trail. We dive deeper into the realities of long-distance walking — the physical challenges, the mental resilience required, and the unexpected lessons that emerge when you strip life back to the basics.This episode is a powerful reminder that adventure doesn’t have an age limit. Annie reflects on how this stage of life shaped her experience, the courage it takes to back yourself, and what’s possible when women give themselves permission to keep exploring, growing, and saying yes to new challenges. A must-listen for anyone navigating the menopause transition and wondering, “What’s next for me?”https://www.simplynourish.co.nz/https://www.facebook.com/simplynourishhttps://www.instagram.com/simplynourishnz

What happens when a 68-year-old woman decides to walk the entire length of New Zealand (3000kms), the Te Araroa Trail?In part one, Brenda talks with Annie Wolf about the bold leap that turned retirement into a life-changing adventure. It’s a conversation full of heart, humour and the incredible strength that shines through when women in midlife choose to back themselves.https://www.simplynourish.co.nz/https://www.facebook.com/simplynourishhttps://www.instagram.com/simplynourishnz

In this episode of Simply Nourish, Brenda chats with Loretta Hogg of Loretta Loves Lifting. Loretta shares how strength training can empower women through midlife and menopause, building muscle, bone health, energy, and confidence. From elite athletes to everyday women, discover practical tips and inspiration to lift, thrive, and feel strong at every stage of life.Connect with Loretta:Instagram: @lorettalovesliftinghttps://www.instagram.com/lorettalovesliftingWebsite: https://www.lorettaloveslifting.comConnect with Simply Nourish:Website: https://www.simplynourish.co.nzInstagram: @simplynourishnzFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/simplynourishConnect with BBG BuiltWebsite: https:/www.bbgbuilt.co.nzInstagram: https:/www.instagram.com/bbg_built

Dr Anastasia Hronis, author of the bestselling The Dopamine Brain, joins me to share insights on motivation, habits, and living with purpose. We explore brain health, sleep, and neuroplasticity, with practical tips for thriving in midlife and beyond.  A conversation full of inspiration, science, and actionable tips for women ready to nourish their body, mind, and spirit.www.simplynourish.co.nzwww.bbgbuilt.co.nzhttps://www.ausihw.com.au/anastasiahronis

What does it take to reinvent yourself after 50? To move through adversity, loss, and the challenges of menopause — and still find the strength to create something vibrant and life-changing?In this episode of the Simply Nourish Podcast, Brenda Bickerstaff sits down with Gillian Halkett, founder of Dance Fitness Christchurch, one of the city’s largest independent dance fitness communities. Gillian’s journey is one of resilience, joy, and reinvention — a story that will inspire women everywhere navigating midlife and beyond.Gillian shares openly about:💃 Her love of dance and how it became a source of healing and empowerment🔥 The difficult years of bullying in the fitness industry — and how she found the strength to keep going🌿 Her personal menopause journey and the challenges of navigating change at midlife❤️ How grief, including the loss of her daughter, shaped her outlook on life, resilience, and community🌟 The creation and growth of Dance Fitness Christchurch, from a small hall class to a thriving community of nearly 500 membersThis conversation is about more than movement. It’s about finding your voice, rebuilding confidence, and recognising that midlife is not the end — it’s a new beginning. Gillian’s story shows what’s possible when we step forward with courage, community, and joy.🎧 Tune in if you’re ready for real talk on:Menopause and midlife transitionsBuilding resilience after adversityHealing through movement and danceCommunity, connection, and joyThriving after 50✨ Episode Extras🎶 Check out Gillian’s Boogie Wonderland September 2025 playlist here:https://open.spotify.com/playlist/20N9zl9G1jFMm7usk9aipc?si=a2rNLd98TZCbcnJ-K0PkBw📲 Connect with Gillian on Facebook: Dance Fitness Chch✨ The Simply Nourish Podcast is about real women, real stories, and real change. Hosted by Brenda Bickerstaff, this monthly show explores health, wellbeing, and transformation through the menopause transition and beyond.

The Story Behind Simply Nourish: Strength, Menopause & Finding Purpose