Magnificent Midlife

Want to rethink everything you thought you knew about menopause? I’m thrilled to welcome back Tania Elfersy, someone I really admire and a woman with a truly refreshing take on this stage of life. This is a conversation between two women who care deeply about the state of the menoverse today! I first came across Tania while writing my book and was immediately struck by her wisdom and insight. The last time she joined me on the podcast, our conversation about menopause was very feisty – and this one is just as spirited. Tania brings such clarity, compassion and common sense to the menopause conversation. I can’t wait for you to hear this episode – it’s sure to challenge, inspire and maybe even transform how you think about current menopause narratives. We talk about: -How fear-based menopause marketing took root in the UK and spread globally -Why so much hormone therapy research is being misunderstood, misrepresented, and selectively used -The real impact of celebrity endorsements and influencer-led “menopause awareness” campaigns -How the pharmaceutical and wellness industries are profiting from women’s insecurities -What’s missing from the current menopause conversation – and why context matters -How women are being encouraged to medicalize a natural transition -The dangers of cherry-picked data and the confusion between relative and absolute risk -The quiet manipulation happening behind so-called “menopause revolutions” -Why women deserve full, unbiased information before making health decisions -How to separate fact from marketing spin in an age of social media misinformation -Why questioning, staying curious, and trusting your intuition are radical acts of self-care And more! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it and leave us a 5* review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you’re listening. You can read a blog about this podcast episode here.  Order Rachel’s book, Magnificent Midlife: Transform Your Middle Years, Menopause And Beyond, recommended in The New York Times as one of seven top books about menopause at magnificentmidlife.com/book The paperback can also be purchased on Amazon or other online retailers: UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ US & Canada: https://www.amazon.com/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ You can listen to all the other episodes and get the show notes at magnificentmidlife.com/podcast. Podcast recommended by the Sunday Times. Feedspot #9 in 40 Best Midlife Podcasts and #7 in 60 Best Women Over 50 Podcasts You'll find lots of strategies, support, and resources to help make your midlife magnificent at magnificentmidlife.com. Check out Rachel's online Revitalize Experience, a 6-week intensive small group mentoring experience or 1-1 Midlife Mentoring.

We’re bringing back another powerful episode for our special Menopause Matters Season - this time with the fabulous Karen Newby. Karen is a nutritionist who’s been practising nutritional therapy for over a decade, specialising in women’s hormonal health - particularly menopause. She’s the author of The Natural Menopause Method, a brilliant nutritional guide to perimenopause and beyond, and her brand-new book The Natural Menopause Method Cookbook is out now. In her new book, Karen has compiled 60 simple, flavour-packed recipes designed to help combat and minimise the most common menopause symptoms. These are meals made for time-poor menopausal women who still want to eat well — full of nutrition and bursting with taste. From Salmon Traybake with Tarragon Pesto to ‘Stop Feeling 100’ Joint Rejuvenation Smoothie, these recipes tackle issues like fatigue, hot flushes, brain fog, irritability, and sleeplessness — showing how food can truly be medicine for this stage of life. In our conversation, Karen brings a wealth of knowledge about how nutrition can support our hormones and overall wellbeing through this transition. Here’s what we cover: -How we can best prepare ourselves for perimenopause -The first signs of perimenopause and what can be done about them -Good and bad estrogens -What we can learn from other cultures in terms of food and hormones -The importance of phytoestrogens -Food as medicine -How to stop sugar cravings and why they happen -Why modern life can make menopause worse -Why women may get heavier periods as they move into perimenopause -The importance of maintaining blood sugar levels -The role of the adrenal glands -Why we need to get better at managing stress -Why there’s no quick fix when it comes to menopause -Six simple nutritional shifts to support perimenopause -Why we need to start putting ourselves first And more! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it and leave us a 5* review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you’re listening. Order Rachel’s book, Magnificent Midlife: Transform Your Middle Years, Menopause And Beyond, recommended in The New York Times as one of seven top books about menopause at magnificentmidlife.com/book The paperback can also be purchased on Amazon or other online retailers: UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ US & Canada: https://www.amazon.com/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ You can listen to all the other episodes and get the show notes at magnificentmidlife.com/podcast. Podcast recommended by the Sunday Times. Feedspot #9 in 40 Best Midlife Podcasts and #7 in 60 Best Women Over 50 Podcasts You'll find lots of strategies, support, and resources to help make your midlife magnificent at magnificentmidlife.com. Check out Rachel's online Revitalize Experience, a 6-week intensive small group mentoring experience or 1-1 Midlife Mentoring.

We’re bringing back another great episode for our special Menopause Matters Season — this time with the fabulous Tania Dalton. Tania is a healthy aging coach and fitness trainer, known for her inspiring approach to redefining what’s possible as we age. She’s passionate about showing that menopause isn’t an ending, but the beginning of a whole new chapter. Since we first recorded this episode, Tania has continued her mission, working as an online health coach helping women over 50 regain their energy so they can thrive in their careers and their lives. She’s also launched an exciting new venture — the Midlife Women’s Clinic, an online service for Australian women navigating perimenopause. The clinic provides education and connects women with GPs, Nurse Practitioners, Naturopaths, Psychologists, Nutritionists, and other experts who specialise in perimenopause. Tania brings such inspiration and practical wisdom to this conversation, sharing how lifestyle choices can transform how we age and how midlife can be the most empowering time of all. Here’s what we cover: -Why Tania became so interested in how lifestyle impacts aging -Why she’s determined to show women menopause isn’t the end so much as a whole new beginning -Simple and effective ways to transform life -Staying active despite osteoarthritis -Training for an ironman challenge (she since completed this!) -Being willing to try things while accepting you may not be able to complete them -Why Tania feels menopause has been the best thing to happen to her -The importance of prioritizing sleep -How Tania manages stress -The importance of getting outside a lot, especially first thing in the morning -How living more simply can help with health -How Tania has accepted her aging self -Optimal nutrition in midlife and beyond -Increasing variety in your diet to assist your microbiome -The importance of strength training and getting clear on what we need to do -Incorporating HIIT sessions where possible -Incidental exercise – staying mobile throughout the day -The impact of stress on increasing belly fat in midlife -How to simply incorporate meditation -Not letting perfectionism stop her from going for things -What Tania most wants women to know And more! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it and leave us a 5* review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you’re listening. Order Rachel’s book, Magnificent Midlife: Transform Your Middle Years, Menopause And Beyond, recommended in The New York Times as one of seven top books about menopause at magnificentmidlife.com/book The paperback can also be purchased on Amazon or other online retailers: UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ US & Canada: https://www.amazon.com/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ You can listen to all the other episodes and get the show notes at magnificentmidlife.com/podcast. Podcast recommended by the Sunday Times. Feedspot #9 in 40 Best Midlife Podcasts and #7 in 60 Best Women Over 50 Podcasts You'll find lots of strategies, support, and resources to help make your midlife magnificent at magnificentmidlife.com. Check out Rachel's online Revitalize Experience, a 6-week intensive small group mentoring experience or 1-1 Midlife Mentoring.

We’re bringing back another ground-breaking episode for our special Menopause Matters Season — this time with the inspiring Karen Arthur. Karen is an educator, fashion designer, dancer, podcaster, broadcaster, author and artist. She’s the host of the Menopause Whilst Black podcast, which she created to amplify the voices of Black women going through menopause. Karen brings such honesty, creativity, and joy to this conversation. She reminds us that menopause isn’t one size fits all and that midlife can be a time to set boundaries, honour ourselves, and open up to what’s possible. And that representation matters. Here’s what we cover: -How the Black Lives Matter movement inspired Karen to create her podcast -Why menopause isn’t one size fits all -The importance of workplace support through menopause -The different menopause experience of Black women -How to actually make a difference around racial injustice -Karen’s personal journey with depression -Her realization she was going through menopause and how it changed her life -Experiences with therapy and the importance of doing it when you’re ready -Knowing when to seek help and when to say no -Establishing boundaries with yourself and your body -Honouring the ageing process and embracing midlife -What menopause can truly give us And so much more! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it and leave us a 5* review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you’re listening. Order Rachel’s book, Magnificent Midlife: Transform Your Middle Years, Menopause And Beyond, recommended in The New York Times as one of seven top books about menopause at magnificentmidlife.com/book The paperback can also be purchased on Amazon or other online retailers: UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ US & Canada: https://www.amazon.com/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ You can listen to all the other episodes and get the show notes at magnificentmidlife.com/podcast. Podcast recommended by the Sunday Times. Feedspot #9 in 40 Best Midlife Podcasts and #7 in 60 Best Women Over 50 Podcasts You'll find lots of strategies, support, and resources to help make your midlife magnificent at magnificentmidlife.com. Check out Rachel's online Revitalize Experience, a 6-week intensive small group mentoring experience or 1-1 Midlife Mentoring.

We’re bringing back another great episode for our special Menopause Matters Season – this time with the brilliant Angela Counsel. Angela is a naturopath, kinesiologist, and mindset coach working with women in midlife. Like me, she’s on a mission to spread the word that menopause doesn’t have to be a struggle. It can be a time of stepping into your wisdom and falling in love with yourself and your life. This conversation was recorded at a time when Covid-19 was very much part of our everyday lives, so we talk a lot about how to support both our hormonal balance and our immune systems in that context. Angela shares deep knowledge and practical tips, all grounded in her belief that midlife is a time of empowerment, not decline. This conversation is very much grounded in Lifestyle Medicine. Here’s what we cover: -How our jobs can impact our health -How a miscarriage led Angela to study naturopathy -The impact of stress on women’s bodies and how it can cause early menopause -The importance of hormonal balance at all stages of our lives -How it’s not normal to experience lots of symptoms around the time of menopause, if we do that means there are issues that need to be dealt with -The many unnatural products in our lives that can impact our health -The impact of stress on our immune systems and immune -related health issues -If you struggle to get over a minor illness such as a cold then your immune system isn’t working properly -Never getting sick is not necessarily a good thing either -The body’s natural response to viral illness and how we can get in the way of that -Our over reliance on taking a pill to get better -Eating better, cleaner food to avoid pesticides -Vinegar can help to remove waxy coatings on fruit and pesticides -Eating organic if you can, especially if soft like broccoli and berries -Stress, fear and toilet paper -Alcohol, stress and the impact on menopause -The impact of vitamin D levels on people’s Covid response -Why Australia has coped comparatively well with the pandemic And lots more! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it and leave us a 5* review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you’re listening. Order Rachel’s book, Magnificent Midlife: Transform Your Middle Years, Menopause And Beyond, recommended in The New York Times as one of seven top books about menopause at magnificentmidlife.com/book The paperback can also be purchased on Amazon or other online retailers: UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ US & Canada: https://www.amazon.com/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ You can listen to all the other episodes and get the show notes at magnificentmidlife.com/podcast. Podcast recommended by the Sunday Times. Feedspot #9 in 40 Best Midlife Podcasts and #7 in 60 Best Women Over 50 Podcasts You'll find lots of strategies, support, and resources to help make your midlife magnificent at magnificentmidlife.com. Check out Rachel's online Revitalize Experience, a 6-week intensive small group mentoring experience or 1-1 Midlife Mentoring.

We’re bringing back another episode for our special Menopause Matters Season — this time with the wonderful Clarissa Kristjansson. She’s a Mindfulness and Menopause expert, author of The Mindful Menopause, and host of the Thriving Thru Menopause podcast. Clarissa is passionate about changing the way women think about menopause and aging. She brings such warmth and wisdom to this conversation, showing how mindfulness and a truly holistic approach can transform our experience of midlife. Her work continues to challenge unhelpful narratives and empower women to take charge of their own journey. Here’s what we cover: Why Clarissa became so passionate about menopause The power of mindfulness and a truly holistic approach Busting myths and unhelpful menopause narratives How women can take charge of their own experience Menopause, ageism, and the challenges of the workplace The potential impact of toxins in our lives Clarissa’s best tips for thriving through midlife and beyond And more! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it and leave us a 5* review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you’re listening. Order Rachel’s book, Magnificent Midlife: Transform Your Middle Years, Menopause And Beyond, recommended in The New York Times as one of seven top books about menopause at magnificentmidlife.com/book The paperback can also be purchased on Amazon or other online retailers: UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ US & Canada: https://www.amazon.com/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ You can listen to all the other episodes and get the show notes at magnificentmidlife.com/podcast. Podcast recommended by the Sunday Times. Feedspot #9 in 40 Best Midlife Podcasts and #7 in 60 Best Women Over 50 Podcasts You'll find lots of strategies, support, and resources to help make your midlife magnificent at magnificentmidlife.com. Check out Rachel's online Revitalize Experience, a 6-week intensive small group mentoring experience or 1-1 Midlife Mentoring.

We’re revisiting another brilliant conversation for our special Menopause Matters Season — this time with the inspiring Breeda Bermingham. She’s a social entrepreneur, founder of the Midlife Women Rock Project, and author of Midlife Women Rock: A Menopause Story for a New Generation. A former midwife and nurse, Breeda went back to full-time education at 49, completing both a psychology degree and a master’s in sociology. Impressive doesn’t even begin to cover it! This was such a moving conversation — Breeda’s wisdom and passion continue to have a profound impact on me. With more and more fear around menopause conversations, Breeda’s call to action on menopause is just as timely as ever. Here’s what we cover: -Why she wrote her book and the urgency of changing menopause narratives -Breaking taboos and giving women’s voices space to be heard -The legacy of Feminine Forever and the medicalization of menopause -Her Menopause Cafés in Ireland and the power of shared stories -What it was like returning to full-time study at 49 -Practical ways women can take more control of their experience -Why sleep is so critical for long-term health -Celebrating how amazing women are before, during, and after menopause And so much more!   If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it and leave us a 5* review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you’re listening. Order Rachel’s book, Magnificent Midlife: Transform Your Middle Years, Menopause And Beyond, recommended in The New York Times as one of seven top books about menopause at magnificentmidlife.com/book The paperback can also be purchased on Amazon or other online retailers: UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ US & Canada: https://www.amazon.com/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ You can listen to all the other episodes and get the show notes at magnificentmidlife.com/podcast. Podcast recommended by the Sunday Times. Feedspot #9 in 40 Best Midlife Podcasts and #7 in 60 Best Women Over 50 Podcasts You'll find lots of strategies, support, and resources to help make your midlife magnificent at magnificentmidlife.com. Check out Rachel's online Revitalize Experience, a 6-week intensive small group mentoring experience or 1-1 Midlife Mentoring.

This is a re-release episode with the brilliant Jackie Lynch, Registered Nutritional Therapist and author of The Happy Menopause. I just love that title! Jackie’s work is all about how nutrition can help us flourish in midlife and beyond. ✨ Book news! Jackie’s latest book The Happy Menopause Guide to Energy: Nutrition to Rejuvenate Your Brain & Body is now out. While her original book The Happy Menopause: Smart Nutrition to Help You Flourish is a symptom-by-symptom guide you can dip in and out of, this new sister copy takes a different approach. It’s essentially a journey through one of her clinical programmes in book form. So many of the women Jackie sees in her clinic struggle with physical and/or mental energy in midlife, so she decided to take a deep dive into the subject. In this new book, she guides readers through a step-by-step process to regain mental clarity, physical stamina, and overall vitality. It helps you pinpoint what’s draining your energy and create a tailored action plan to rejuvenate brain and body. Available now in book, ebook, and audio form, in all the usual places. If you’d rather read a summary transcription of this podcast episode, you can do that here. We talk about: -Why Jackie believes menopause is a transformational time in a woman’s life (in a good way) -Estrogen as the biddable, nurturing hormone -Why some women suffer badly in menopause and others don’t -The massive importance of diet and lifestyle in midlife and beyond -How the manner in which we lived when younger can impact our menopause experience -The impact of stress and the myth of having it all -How I got my periods back after a diagnosis of early menopause -The importance of maintaining stable blood sugar levels -How the body produces stress hormones when blood sugar levels are not stable -How menopause may not be to blame for what’s happening to us -How our thoughts and beliefs can impact our experience of menopause -The importance of eating more protein with every meal and snack -Getting magnesium, calcium and iron from leafy green vegetables -How phytoestrogens mimic the actions of estrogen in the body -The wonder food that is flaxseed -The physiological stress we can put on our bodies through diet and lifestyle -Understanding whether HRT is right for you and how to balance that with diet and lifestyle -Why HRT is not a quick solution and still needs a good diet for the best support -How I weaned myself off HRT at 51 -How just small nutritional changes can make a huge difference -Jackie’s own midlife reinvention And more! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it and leave us a 5* review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you’re listening. Order Rachel’s book, Magnificent Midlife: Transform Your Middle Years, Menopause And Beyond, recommended in The New York Times as one of seven top books about menopause at magnificentmidlife.com/book The paperback can also be purchased on Amazon or other online retailers: UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ US & Canada: https://www.amazon.com/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ You can listen to all the other episodes and get the show notes at magnificentmidlife.com/podcast. Podcast recommended by the Sunday Times. Feedspot #9 in 40 Best Midlife Podcasts and #7 in 60 Best Women Over 50 Podcasts You'll find lots of strategies, support, and resources to help make your midlife magnificent at magnificentmidlife.com. Check out Rachel's online Revitalize Experience, a 6-week intensive small group mentoring experience or 1-1 Midlife Mentoring.

Maryon Stewart is known as the pioneer of the natural menopause movement. She created a non-drug but scientifically based program to overcome issues associated with menopause and has helped thousands of women. She’s written 28 books and is also a campaigner for education around drugs. She’s made it her mission to ensure women have all the information they need to manage menopause effectively without the need for medication in most instances. We talk about: -What it means to manage your menopause naturally -Why HRT isn’t the magic solution to hormonal issues -The need for a midlife refuel -The biggest nutritional deficiencies seen in midlife women -The most common issues women present with who come to consult with Maryon -The most embarrassing issues women are coping with -Maryon’s advice for low libido and vaginal dryness -How we can improve our diet and what it helps -Bloating in midlife and how to fix it -Why we can get more urinary tract infections and what to do about that And more!   If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it and leave us a 5* review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you’re listening. Order Rachel’s book, Magnificent Midlife: Transform Your Middle Years, Menopause And Beyond, recommended in The New York Times as one of seven top books about menopause at magnificentmidlife.com/book The paperback can also be purchased on Amazon or other online retailers: UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ US & Canada: https://www.amazon.com/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ You can listen to all the other episodes and get the show notes at magnificentmidlife.com/podcast. Podcast recommended by the Sunday Times. Feedspot #9 in 40 Best Midlife Podcasts and #7 in 60 Best Women Over 50 Podcasts You'll find lots of strategies, support, and resources to help make your midlife magnificent at magnificentmidlife.com. Check out Rachel's online Revitalize Experience, a 6-week intensive small group mentoring experience or 1-1 Midlife Mentoring.

In this solo episode, host Rachel Lankester introduces a brand-new special season of the Magnificent Midlife Podcast: Menopause Matters. With World Menopause Day around the corner, Rachel is shining a spotlight on some of the inspiring menopause conversations from the Magnificent Midlife archives. She shares her own early menopause diagnosis story, why lifestyle (as) medicine (the theme of this year's World Menopause Day) is so powerful, and what listeners can expect from this empowering rerun series. She talks about: -Why she has created a dedicated menopause season -Her own early menopause diagnosis at 41 -The theme of lifestyle as medicine for World Menopause Day -Nutrition, fitness, culture, stress, and relationships etc. during menopause -Revisiting expert voices including Maryon Stewart, Karen Newby, Jackie Lynch, Karen Arthur, and Breeda Bermingham and more! -How these timeless conversations support hormonal health through perimenopause and beyond -Why menopause isn’t an end point, but an ongoing journey -Her passion for the Women’s Rugby World Cup and the fantastic influence this is having on female body positivity – a bit random! And more!   If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it and leave us a 5* review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you’re listening. Order Rachel’s book, Magnificent Midlife: Transform Your Middle Years, Menopause And Beyond, recommended in The New York Times as one of seven top books about menopause at magnificentmidlife.com/book The paperback can also be purchased on Amazon or other online retailers: UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ US & Canada: https://www.amazon.com/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ You can listen to all the other episodes and get the show notes at magnificentmidlife.com/podcast. Podcast recommended by the Sunday Times. Feedspot #9 in 40 Best Midlife Podcasts and #7 in 60 Best Women Over 50 Podcasts You'll find lots of strategies, support, and resources to help make your midlife magnificent at magnificentmidlife.com. Check out Rachel's online Revitalize Experience, a 6-week intensive small group mentoring experience or 1-1 Midlife Mentoring.

Want to add something fabulous to your life? Meet Melissa Talago, a serial entrepreneur and portfolio careerist with a single minded passion: to live a life less ordinary. She runs Hoomin, providing content marketing and communications leadership to tech companies. She's also the founder of Glamoraks, a global community for women who hike. She wrote a book on how to divorce amicably and in her spare time, works for adventure travel company Water by Nature, taking guests on sailing trips. This is Melissa's second appearance on the podcast, as I wanted to catch up on all the exciting things she does to make her life less ordinary. We talk about: - Melissa’s inspiring journey and career transformation - Balancing her career and personal life - Her insights from Glamoraks - Her backpacking adventures - How to live a life less ordinary - Overcoming challenges and embracing change - The power of travel and human connections - Encouraging all of us to take action - Living a life with purpose And much more! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it and leave us a 5* review on iTunes or wherever you’re listening. Order the ebook or audiobook (narrated by Rachel) versions of Rachel’s book, Magnificent Midlife: Transform Your Middle Years, Menopause And Beyond at magnificentmidlife.com/book The paperback can be purchased on Amazon or other online retailers: UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ US & Canada: https://www.amazon.com/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ You can listen to all the other episodes and get the show notes at magnificentmidlife.com/podcast. Recommended by the Sunday Times. Feedspot #9 in 40 Best Midlife Podcasts and #7 in 60 Best Women Over 50 Podcasts You'll find lots of strategies, support, and resources to help make your midlife magnificent at magnificentmidlife.com. Check out Rachel's online Revitalize Experience, a 6-week intensive small group mentoring experience or 1-1 Midlife Mentoring.

Dr. Sarah McKay is a neuroscientist, author, and science communicator passionate about making brain science accessible and practical. With a PhD in neuroscience, she specializes in exploring the female brain and its transformations across life stages. Her books, The Women's Brain Book and Baby Brain, delve into the neuroscience of health, hormones, and motherhood. She’s also the director of The Neuroscience Academy, bridging the gap between cutting-edge research and everyday life. We talk about: - Dr McKay's passion for science communication - Her inspiration for writing her books - Understanding the brain and menopause - Advancements in menopause research - Challenges in menopause research and communication - The impact of menopause on cognition and mood - Menopause in the workplace - The need for reliable data and room for nuance - Lifestyle and menopause management - The need for humor in menopause - Future directions in menopause research  And lots more! If you want to understand what happens to our brains in midlife, this podcast is a must listen. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it and leave us a 5* review on iTunes or wherever you’re listening. Order the ebook or audiobook (narrated by Rachel) versions of Rachel’s book, Magnificent Midlife: Transform Your Middle Years, Menopause And Beyond at magnificentmidlife.com/book The paperback can be purchased on Amazon or other online retailers: UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ US & Canada: https://www.amazon.com/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ You can listen to all the other episodes and get the show notes at magnificentmidlife.com/podcast. Recommended by the Sunday Times. Feedspot #9 in 40 Best Midlife Podcasts and #7 in 60 Best Women Over 50 Podcasts You'll find lots of strategies, support, and resources to help make your midlife magnificent at magnificentmidlife.com. Check out Rachel's online Revitalize Experience, a 6-week intensive small group mentoring experience or 1-1 Midlife Mentoring.

Lara Briden is a naturopathic doctor and women's health advocate with over 25 years of clinical experience. Lara has written Period Repair Manual and Hormone Repair Manual. Her latest book, Metabolism Repair For Women,  a compassionate, science based guide to balancing insulin, losing weight and improving health, empowers women to understand and heal their metabolism for lasting health. Lara is also one of my co-founders at MenoClarity. We talk about: - The inspiration for and differences in Lara's books - The importance of understanding metabolic dysfunction - The role of hormones like insulin, estrogen, and testosterone in metabolic health and how they interact during different life stages - The impact of our modern lifestyle - Challenges in balancing blood sugar - Defining metabolic dysfunction and its manifestations - The impact of insulin resistance on women's health - Strategies to restore metabolic balance - The role of circadian rhythm - Practical tips for improving metabolic health  And lots more! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it and leave us a 5* review on iTunes or wherever you’re listening. Order the ebook or audiobook (narrated by Rachel) versions of Rachel’s book, Magnificent Midlife: Transform Your Middle Years, Menopause And Beyond at magnificentmidlife.com/book The paperback can be purchased on Amazon or other online retailers: UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ US & Canada: https://www.amazon.com/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ You can listen to all the other episodes and get the show notes at magnificentmidlife.com/podcast. Recommended by the Sunday Times. Feedspot #9 in 40 Best Midlife Podcasts and #7 in 60 Best Women Over 50 Podcasts You'll find lots of strategies, support, and resources to help make your midlife magnificent at magnificentmidlife.com. Check out Rachel's online Revitalize Experience, a 6-week intensive small group mentoring experience or 1-1 Midlife Mentoring.

Tracey Yarad is an Australian singer-songwriter and pianist who transformed personal heartbreak into powerful storytelling. After a devastating betrayal in midlife, she channelled her pain into her one-woman musical show All The Pretty Things, now touring in Australia and the UK. Through raw honesty, humour, and music, she’s helping others heal while reclaiming her own voice. So powerful and inspiring! We talk about: - Tracey's journey and the birth of her show - The betrayal and its impact - The aftermath and healing process - The evolution of her show and its emotional depth - The role of meditation and celibacy - Her move to New York and new beginnings - The creation of her book and its impact - The power of forgiveness and letting go - Broader lessons and connections And lots more! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it and leave us a 5* review on iTunes or wherever you’re listening. Order the ebook or audiobook (narrated by Rachel) versions of Rachel’s book, Magnificent Midlife: Transform Your Middle Years, Menopause And Beyond at magnificentmidlife.com/book The paperback can be purchased on Amazon or other online retailers: UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ US & Canada: https://www.amazon.com/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ You can listen to all the other episodes and get the show notes at magnificentmidlife.com/podcast. Recommended by the Sunday Times. Feedspot #9 in 40 Best Midlife Podcasts and #7 in 60 Best Women Over 50 Podcasts You'll find lots of strategies, support, and resources to help make your midlife magnificent at magnificentmidlife.com. Check out Rachel's online Revitalize Experience, a 6-week intensive small group mentoring experience or 1-1 Midlife Mentoring.

Rebekah Rotstein is the creator of the medically endorsed Buff Bones® system, providing bone health, education and exercise to manage and prevent bone and joint issues for people of all ages. She’s an industry leader in Pilates, bone health and movement education. Rebekah was diagnosed with osteoporosis at the age of 28 and has been helping people improve their bone health ever since.  She talks about: Her osteoporosis diagnosis The impact of exercise and diet on bone health Midlife prevention and bone health awareness Understanding osteoporosis and misconceptions Primary and secondary osteoporosis Bone health beyond density The Buff Bones® program and movement education The importance of strength training and impact exercises Cultural differences in bone health awareness And lots more! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it and leave us a 5* review on iTunes or wherever you’re listening. Order the ebook or audiobook (narrated by Rachel) versions of Rachel’s book, Magnificent Midlife: Transform Your Middle Years, Menopause And Beyond at magnificentmidlife.com/book The paperback can be purchased on Amazon or other online retailers: UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ US & Canada: https://www.amazon.com/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ You can listen to all the other episodes and get the show notes at magnificentmidlife.com/podcast. Recommended by the Sunday Times. Feedspot #3 in best midlife podcasts and #14 in best women over 50 podcasts worldwide. You'll find lots of strategies, support, and resources to help make your midlife magnificent at magnificentmidlife.com. Check out Rachel's online Revitalize Experience, a 6-week intensive small group mentoring experience or 1-1 Midlife Mentoring.

A solo midlife update from Rachel, with a difference, sharing her recent solo trip to Albania, and what’s been going on in life. She talks about: - Initial nervousness and changing travel plans - Conquering driving fears while navigating Albania’s challenging roads - Initial hotel challenges - Exploring Gjirokastër and its extraordinary architecture - Finding local heroes to help when she got rather stuck - Exploring the haunting history of communist Albania through bunkers and surveillance centres - Albanian blood feuds and the impact they continue to have - The archeological wonder of Butrint - The Albanian coast including Ksamil and Himare - Staying in the stunning ancient multi-layered town of Berat - Navigating Tirana and reflections on history - Personal life changes and future plans And more! Book mentioned in the podcast: Broken April by Ismail Kadare The Albania blog post mentioned: Albania Solo

Samhita Mukhopadhyay is the former editor of Teen Vogue and Feministing and the editorial director at The Meteor. She’s the author of The Myth of Making It: A Workplace Reckoning, which explores the contradictions and inequities of success in the modern workplace, particularly for women and marginalized groups. She’s also written Outdated: Why Dating is Ruining Your Love Life and was the co-editor of the anthology Nasty Women: Feminism, Resistance, and Revolution in Trump’s America. She wrote her master’s thesis on The Politics of the Feminist Blogosphere and is passionate about examining power, gender, and cultural narratives through a feminist lens. We talk about: Why Samhita wrote her book The systemic challenges in the workplace for women The impact of gendered expectations The American ethos of work and success What it means for Samhita to be a feminist at work Redefining success and prioritizing self-care What it means for Samhita to be in the realm of being an older woman Burnout as a systemic problem Samhita’s vision for the book (and society) And more! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it and leave us a 5* review on iTunes or wherever you’re listening. Order the ebook or audiobook (narrated by Rachel) versions of Rachel’s book, Magnificent Midlife: Transform Your Middle Years, Menopause And Beyond at magnificentmidlife.com/book The paperback can be purchased on Amazon or other online retailers: UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ US & Canada: https://www.amazon.com/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ You can listen to all the other episodes and get the show notes at magnificentmidlife.com/podcast. Recommended by the Sunday Times. Feedspot #3 in best midlife podcasts and #14 in best women over 50 podcasts worldwide. You'll find lots of strategies, support, and resources to help make your midlife magnificent at magnificentmidlife.com. Check out Rachel's online Revitalize Experience, a 6-week intensive small group mentoring experience or 1-1 Midlife Mentoring.

Lesley Jane Seymour is a media entrepreneur and the former editor of More magazine. She founded Covey Club, an online community for women over 40, which grew out of a survey that More magazine readers took after the iconic magazine closed. She's been a leading light in the media industry for many years, and she was the editor of Marie Claire magazine before taking over More. She's passionate about helping women 40+ create fabulous change in their lives. We talk about: - The closure of More magazine - The creation and mission of Covey Club - The power of midlife women - Older women saving the world - The fight for gender equality - Networking and support for entrepreneurs - Lesley's transition to entrepreneurship - The power of women supporting women - Lesley's work with Michelle Obama - Lesley’s decision to leave publishing - Embracing lifelong learning and new experiences And lots more! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it and leave us a 5* review on iTunes or wherever you’re listening. Order the ebook or audiobook (narrated by Rachel) versions of Rachel’s book, Magnificent Midlife: Transform Your Middle Years, Menopause And Beyond at magnificentmidlife.com/book The paperback can be purchased on Amazon or other online retailers: UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ US & Canada: https://www.amazon.com/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ You can listen to all the other episodes and get the show notes at magnificentmidlife.com/podcast. Recommended by the Sunday Times. Feedspot #3 in best midlife podcasts and #14 in best women over 50 podcasts worldwide. You'll find lots of strategies, support, and resources to help make your midlife magnificent at magnificentmidlife.com. Check out Rachel's online Revitalize Experience, a 6-week intensive small group mentoring experience or 1-1 Midlife Mentoring.

I always love chatting to this returning guest! Kate Codrington is the author of The New York Times recommended book, Second Spring: The Self-Care Guide To Menopause, and her second book is The Perimenopause Journal: Unlock Your Power, Own Your Wellbeing, Find Your Path. This is a beautiful journal full of love and wisdom to help women process the momentous changes that perimenopause brings. This is a super fun conversation with lots of wisdom and inspiration to help you thrive through the perimenopause transition. If you haven’t already, make sure to listen to Kate’s first interview on the podcast too! We talk about: - Kate’s new book and its purpose - The role of positivity in perimenopause - Spiritual and emotional aspects of perimenopause - Leadership and the role of postmenopausal women - The importance of authentic leadership, whether it involves standing on a stage or being a compassionate presence in small moments - The seasons of perimenopause - The importance of space and self-care - The gifts of perimenopause - The impact of deficiency narratives - The importance of age respect and voice And lots more! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it and leave us a 5* review on iTunes or wherever you’re listening. Order the ebook or audiobook (narrated by Rachel) versions of Rachel’s book, Magnificent Midlife: Transform Your Middle Years, Menopause And Beyond at magnificentmidlife.com/book The paperback can be purchased on Amazon or other online retailers: UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ US & Canada: https://www.amazon.com/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ You can listen to all the other episodes and get the show notes at magnificentmidlife.com/podcast. Recommended by the Sunday Times. Feedspot #3 in best midlife podcasts and #14 in best women over 50 podcasts worldwide. You'll find lots of strategies, support, and resources to help make your midlife magnificent at magnificentmidlife.com. Check out Rachel's online Revitalize Experience, a 6-week intensive small group mentoring experience or 1-1 Midlife Mentoring.

Dr Anisha Patel is a GP specializing in women's health whose world was turned upside down with a diagnosis of stage three bowel cancer. She's the author of the brilliant book Everything You'd Hoped You'd Never Need To Know About Bowel Cancer. I found this such a powerful book, with lessons for all of us whether or not we have cancer. This is a very inspiring conversation about women's health and how we can all take better care if ourselves. We talk about: - Anisha's cancer journey - How she found the strength to write her book - Vulnerability and the emotional aspects of cancer - Openness about one's health with children and family - The long-term effects and life after cancer - Surviving the survival - Psychosocial impacts and support - Anisha’s work with charities to set up a life after cancer clinic to provide specialized support - Histamine intolerance and menopause - Balancing hormone therapy and histamine intolerance - Empowering women with knowledge And lots more! If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it and leave us a 5* review on iTunes or wherever you’re listening. Order the ebook or audiobook (narrated by Rachel) versions of Rachel’s book, Magnificent Midlife: Transform Your Middle Years, Menopause And Beyond at magnificentmidlife.com/book The paperback can be purchased on Amazon or other online retailers: UK: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ US & Canada: https://www.amazon.com/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ Australia: https://www.amazon.com.au/Magnificent-Midlife-Transform-Middle-Menopause/dp/173981150X/ You can listen to all the other episodes and get the show notes at magnificentmidlife.com/podcast. Recommended by the Sunday Times. Feedspot #3 in best midlife podcasts and #14 in best women over 50 podcasts worldwide. You'll find lots of strategies, support, and resources to help make your midlife magnificent at magnificentmidlife.com. Check out Rachel's online Revitalize Experience, a 6-week intensive small group mentoring experience or 1-1 Midlife Mentoring.