The Change

In this season four finale, Cathy and Laura delve into the complex and often controversial topic of weight loss, particularly in midlife. They discuss the impact of reality TV shows like 'The Biggest Loser' on body image, the role of celebrity endorsements in promoting weight loss drugs, and the societal pressures that women face regarding their bodies. They discuss the Netflix documentary ‘Fit for TV: The Reality of The Biggest Loser’ which you can watch here. The discussion highlights the need for honest conversations about health and the challenges of navigating weight loss in a world that often equates beauty with worth.Hosts:Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/Audio Producer: Samantha Thomas https://www.instagram.com/samanthalthomas_/ Thanks for listening to The Change, a fully independent podcast. We appreciate your support and listens, so if you like what we do please tell your friends and leave a five star review! Send us a voice message here: ⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-change-pod/message⁠And don’t forget to follow The Change on Instagram @the_change_pod and email us with your questions, feedback and ideas: changepod2023@gmail.com

Cathy and Laura as they sit down with Jane Hollier, the writer behind the poignant Substack series "Letters to My Dead Mum."In this episode, Jane shares her journey through a conservative religious upbringing, the complexities of family estrangement, and the healing power of writing. Discover how Jane navigated her mother's remarriage, the blending of families, and her path to self-discovery.Guest: Jane HollierJane Hollier is the writer behind the sometimes funny, sometimes serious, and always awkward Substack, Letters to my Dead Mum. In this series Jane explores heartbreak, religion, blended families, and the complex grief of losing an estranged parent. Jane has been a freelance writer for 15 years. She has a daughter, two cats, and a beloved house plant called Donna. Read Jane’s Substack ‘Letters to My Dead Mum’Follow Jane on InstagramHosts:Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/Audio Producer: Samantha Thomas https://www.instagram.com/samanthalthomas_/ Thanks for listening to The Change, a fully independent podcast. We appreciate your support and listens, so if you like what we do please tell your friends and leave a five star review! Send us a voice message here: ⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-change-pod/message⁠And don’t forget to follow The Change on Instagram @the_change_pod and email us with your questions, feedback and ideas: changepod2023@gmail.com

Laura and Cathy chat with Samantha Thomas, a former media professional and TV producer turned life coach, about her transformative journey. From the bustling newsrooms of Paris to the serene wellness retreats of Phuket, Sam shares her experiences of navigating career changes, overcoming personal challenges, and finding her true calling in mental fitness coaching.Sam delves into choosing a career in TV and media as a coping mechanism and creative outlet. She shares how she flew to Paris to work in a 24/7 newsroom and the challenges and rewards that came with it. Sam describes transitioning from media to her current work in coaching and her passion for helping others achieve mental fitness.Guest: Samantha ThomasSamantha Thomas is a life coach and founder of Mynd Gym, dedicated to promoting mental and emotional fitness. With a rich background in media, Sam now focuses on empowering individuals to embrace change and live fulfilling lives. She also happens to be our amazing podcast producer!https://www.myndgym.life/

Join Laura and Cath for an incredibly honest chat with the amazing Sarah MacDonald –a voice you'll know from ABC Sydney and Triple J! Sarah peels back the curtain on her incredibly full life, candidly sharing how she balances being a mum to young adults, a wife, and a dedicated caregiver to aging parents, illuminating the demands of the "sandwich generation."Sarah dives into her exhilarating "year of play," exploring new career paths after a significant professional shift. A true Gemini, she thrives on change, and you'll love hearing about her exciting new venture: writing a musical! We tackle the big questions: the future of media in the age of AI, the timeless power of storytelling, and how to combat burnout. Don't miss Sarah's liberating take on midlife and "invisibility" – she sees it as her new superpower, opening doors to freedom and unexpected opportunities!Guest: Sarah MacDonald https://www.instagram.com/sarah.macdonald.insta/Links: https://linktr.ee/sarahmacpeacelovestrengthhttps://www.violet.org.au/Hosts:Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/Audio Producer: Samantha Thomas https://www.instagram.com/samanthalthomas_/ Thanks for listening to The Change, a fully independent podcast. We appreciate your support and listens, so if you like what we do please tell your friends and leave a five star review! Send us a voice message here: ⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-change-pod/message⁠And don’t forget to follow The Change on Instagram @the_change_pod and email us with your questions, feedback and ideas: changepod2023@gmail.com

We have an absolutely unmissable conversation with the phenomenal Hannah Vanderheide! Laura and Cath sit down with this multi-talented force – an incredible actor, writer, and voice artist – as she shares her story. Hannah bravely shares the seismic shifts and personal challenges she faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, giving us an intimate look at how it reshaped her creative path. She also speaks candidly about her incredibly resilient health journey, navigating complex diagnoses like Graves' and Addison's disease while fiercely pursuing her passions.The discussion then dives into the hot-button topic of AI's evolving role in the writing industry, exploring its potential impacts on creators. Hannah powerfully emphasizes the bedrock importance of community support in her career, revealing how connections have been her constant lifeline.This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in creativity, resilience, and the ever-changing landscape of the arts!Guest: Hannah Vanderheide https://www.instagram.com/han.vee/Links: https://www.hannahvanderheide.com/Hosts:Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/Audio Producer: Samantha Thomas https://www.instagram.com/samanthalthomas_/ Thanks for listening to The Change, a fully independent podcast.  We appreciate your support and listens, so if you like what we do please tell your friends and leave a five star review! Send us a voice message here: ⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-change-pod/message⁠And don’t forget to follow The Change on Instagram @the_change_pod and email us with your questions, feedback and ideas: changepod2023@gmail.com

Laura and Cathy chat to money expert and writer Sarah Megginson to discuss the significant financial challenges women face, particularly in midlife. They discuss the impact of the gender pay gap, unconscious bias, and the effects of peri and menopause on income. Sarah emphasises the importance of financial education and awareness, sharing practical tips for managing finances and advocating for better support systems for families. The discussion also touches on Sarah’s personal experience acting as a surrogate for Lisa Messenger and the positive and surprising impact it has had on her life.Guest: Sarah Megginson of Money MargaritaLinks:State of women’s wealth report Sarah Megginson’s book co written with Lisa Messenger, The Power of TwoThe Byron Bay Writers Festival Tickets Mentions: Hosts:Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/Audio Producer: Samantha Thomas https://www.instagram.com/samanthalthomas_/ Thanks for listening to The Change, a fully independent podcast. We appreciate your support and listens, so if you like what we do please tell your friends and leave a five star review! Send us a voice message here: ⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-change-pod/message⁠And don’t forget to follow The Change on Instagram @the_change_pod and email us with your questions, feedback and ideas: changepod2023@gmail.com

Cathy and Laura chat to Claire Mason who has recently been through a lot of change. Claire shares her transformative journey of sobriety, the challenges and joys of caring for her ageing father, and her aspirations for the future beyond her career as a flight attendant.She discusses the importance of self-love and acceptance, especially during life changes such as perimenopause. Claire emphasises the beauty in caring for aging parents - her dad’s viral Reel - and the need for open conversations about end-of-life experiences. About Claire: Claire Mason is a flight attendant, content creator, carer, and storyteller sharing real, raw moments from her solo, sober life. From viral Reels to caregiving insights, she creates content that connects, uplifts, and empowers always grounded in authenticity and humour.Follow Claire’s journey on Instagram here and check out her podcast Booze Free Bants hereMentions: Hosts:Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/Audio Producer: Samantha Thomas https://www.instagram.com/samanthalthomas_/ Thanks for listening to The Change, a fully independent podcast. We appreciate your support and listens, so if you like what we do please tell your friends and leave a five star review! Send us a voice message here: ⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-change-pod/message⁠And don’t forget to follow The Change on Instagram @the_change_pod and email us with your questions, feedback and ideas: changepod2023@gmail.com

In this enlightening conversation with Cathy and Laura, Dr. Fatima Khan shares her extensive knowledge on women's health, focusing on the transitions of puberty, pregnancy and in particular perimenopause, and menopause. She emphasizes the importance of understanding hormonal changes and their impact on mental health, advocating for a holistic approach that includes nutrition, stress management, and self-care. Dr. Khan discusses the societal pressures women face and the need for self-compassion and connection with others. She provides practical strategies for navigating these life stages, encouraging women to prioritise their well-being and embrace the changes they experience.With thanks to Dr Fatima Khan.Visit her website hereFollow her on Instagram hereHosts:Cathy O’Brien Laura Jackel Audio Producer: Samantha Thomas Thanks for listening to The Change, a fully independent podcast. We appreciate your support and listens, so if you like what we do please tell your friends and leave a five star review! Send us a voice message here: ⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-change-pod/message⁠And don’t forget to follow The Change on Instagram @the_change_pod and email us with your questions, feedback and ideas: changepod2023@gmail.com

Join Cathy and Laura as they open up about unexpected curveballs life threw their way leading up to Season Four. From grappling with unexpected evacuations to navigating the depths of mental health struggles. They lay bare the raw, emotional toll of profound change. Discover why leaning on community support became their lifeline and how, even in our hyper-connected world, finding genuine balance is more crucial than ever. This episode isn't just a conversation; it's a testament to resilience and the power of connection in the face of unseen battles.Hosts:Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/Audio Producer: Samantha Thomas https://www.instagram.com/samanthalthomas_/ Thanks for listening to The Change, a fully independent podcast. We appreciate your support and listens, so if you like what we do please tell your friends and leave a five star review! Send us a voice message here: ⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-change-pod/message⁠And don’t forget to follow The Change on Instagram @the_change_pod and email us with your questions, feedback and ideas: changepod2023@gmail.com

This January, join Cathy and Laura for a bite-sized summer treat! From uplifting stories to their take on the not-so-great news items and maybe even a little WTF moment or two! Expect plenty of laughs, juicy gossip and a sprinkle of summer recommendations. It’s the perfect way to catch up, stay in the know, and enjoy some light-hearted chats during your holiday break. Hosts: Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/ Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/ Audio Producer:  Marissa Roberts: https://www.instagram.com/marissarobertsofficial/ Thanks for listening to The Change, a fully independent podcast.  We appreciate your support and listens, so if you like what we do please tell your friends and leave a five star review!  Send us a voice message here: ⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-change-pod/message⁠ And don’t forget to follow The Change on Instagram @the_change_pod and email us with your questions, feedback and ideas: changepod2023@gmail.com

In this episode, the last of season three, Cathy and Laura reflect on the highlights of their podcasting year, discussing memorable guests and emotional moments.  As they approach the holiday season, they share their experiences with gift-giving, family dynamics, and the emotional load that comes with it, ultimately seeking to create new traditions that prioritise community over materialism.  Recommendations: TV -  The Last of Us on Binge Podcast - Legacy Book - The List by Yomi Adegoke  Hosts: Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/ Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/ Audio Producer:  Marissa Roberts: https://www.instagram.com/marissarobertsofficial/ Thanks for listening to The Change, a fully independent podcast.  We appreciate your support and listens, so if you like what we do please tell your friends and leave a five star review!  Send us a voice message here: ⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-change-pod/message⁠

We couldn't get enough of Gina so we're bringing you this very special extended cut video version of Season 3, Episode 12 -Enjoy! --- Gina Chick has had her share of grief, discomfort and growth. She once sat literally alone with it all for 67 days in the Tasmanian wilderness to be the winner of Season 1 of Alone. In her incredible recently released book “We Are the Stars” Gina shares her journey from childhood wonder to navigating the complexities of adulthood and motherhood.  In this episode we talk to Gina about the importance of reconnecting with our inner child, the natural rhythms of life, while also addressing the grief and letting go that comes with motherhood. We talk about the need for women to embrace their power and navigate societal expectations during this transformative phase of life.  Laura, Cathy and Gina delve into the nature of grief, highlighting its transformative power and the necessity of allowing oneself to feel and process emotions fully. Through storytelling and shared experiences, we illustrate the interconnectedness of love, loss, and the human experience. This is an episode NOT to be missed.  With our deepest thanks and gratitude to Gina.  Gina Chick's Instagram Mentions:  We Are the Stars by Gina Chick Hosts: Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/ Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/ Audio Producer:  Marissa Roberts: https://www.instagram.com/marissarobertsofficial/ Thanks for listening to The Change, a fully independent podcast.  We appreciate your support and listens, so if you like what we do please tell your friends and leave a five star review!  Send us a voice message here: ⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-change-pod/message⁠

Gina Chick has had her share of grief, discomfort and growth. She once sat literally alone with it all for 67 days in the Tasmanian wilderness to be the winner of Season 1 of Alone. In her incredible recently released book “We Are the Stars” Gina shares her journey from childhood wonder to navigating the complexities of adulthood and motherhood.  In this episode we talk to Gina about the importance of reconnecting with our inner child, the natural rhythms of life, while also addressing the grief and letting go that comes with motherhood. We talk about the need for women to embrace their power and navigate societal expectations during this transformative phase of life.  Laura, Cathy and Gina delve into the nature of grief, highlighting its transformative power and the necessity of allowing oneself to feel and process emotions fully. Through storytelling and shared experiences, we illustrate the interconnectedness of love, loss, and the human experience. This is an episode NOT to be missed.  With our deepest thanks and gratitude to Gina.  Gina Chick's Instagram Mentions:  We Are the Stars by Gina Chick Hosts: Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/ Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/ Audio Producer:  Marissa Roberts: https://www.instagram.com/marissarobertsofficial/ Thanks for listening to The Change, a fully independent podcast.  We appreciate your support and listens, so if you like what we do please tell your friends and leave a five star review!  Send us a voice message here: ⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-change-pod/message⁠

Steph, a former contestant on MasterChef, discusses her experience on the show and her journey to becoming a successful social media influencer.  Cath and Laura ask Steph all the pervy questions about the audition process for MasterChef, her favourite Aldi centre aisle purchase and the lessons she learned about being her authentic self.  Steph explains how she has built a large following on social media by creating relatable and easy-to-follow cooking content and her exciting plans coming soon!!  And of course we ask Steph about her menopause journey. With thanks to Steph de Sousa.  Steph de Sousa’s instagram  Easy Recipe Gang website Mentions:  Air Fryer Queen by Steph de Sousa  Hosts: Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/ Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/ Audio Producer:  Marissa Roberts: https://www.instagram.com/marissarobertsofficial/ Thanks for listening to The Change, a fully independent podcast.  We appreciate your support and listens, so if you like what we do please tell your friends and leave a five star review!  Send us a voice message here: ⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-change-pod/message⁠

In this bonus conversation, Cathy and Laura do a debrief on what just happened in the US now that Trump has been voted in… again.  They reflect on how the result is making them and women around the world feel and the scary emboldening of far right extremists and misogynists.  The discussion delves into why it’s important to check your privilege and some hopeful thoughts about what’s ahead for Australia.   Recommendations:  Leigh Sales article on why the Democrats lost Article explainer on the 4B movement  Hosts: Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/ Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/ Audio Producer:  Marissa Roberts: https://www.instagram.com/marissarobertsofficial/ Thanks for listening to The Change, a fully independent podcast.  We appreciate your support and listens, so if you like what we do please tell your friends and leave a five star review!  Send us a voice message here: ⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-change-pod/message⁠

In this conversation, Cathy and Laura reconnect after five weeks apart, sharing personal updates about their lives, including challenges faced during travels, the impact of grief and their big feelings about the current U.S. election. In this episode’s change chat ‘big theme’, Cathy and Laura explore the complexities of ageing, nostalgia, and the generational shifts in identity and relevance.  They reflect on the physical and mental challenges of ageing, and the bittersweet nature of facing inevitable losses while also still trying to look forward to joyful moments.  The discussion delves into the feeling of suddenly becoming the 'adult in the room' and the struggle to maintain relevance in a youth-centric culture.  Sherri Dindal - Gen X content creator and comic  The Holderness Family ‘Everyone Forgets About Gen X’  Recommendations:  Firebrand Movie with Jude Law The Diplomat with Keri Russell Wifedom by Anna Funder We are the Stars by Gina Chick Hosts: Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/ Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/ Audio Producer:  Marissa Roberts: https://www.instagram.com/marissarobertsofficial/ Thanks for listening to The Change, a fully independent podcast.  We appreciate your support and listens, so if you like what we do please tell your friends and leave a five star review!  Send us a voice message here: ⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-change-pod/message⁠

Cathy and Laura chat with Kerryn about her busy life as a police officer, mother of four, and author. They discuss the challenges of raising twins, dealing with intrusive questions, and finding time to write. Kerryn shares her approach to fitting writing into her schedule, using short bursts of time and setting goals. She also talks about her inspiration for writing crime fiction and creating memorable characters.  It is a powerful interview highlighting the importance of supporting and encouraging others, as well as the power of storytelling. With thanks to Kerryn Mayne.  Kerryn Mayne’s instagram  Kerryn Mayne website Hosts: Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/ Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/ Audio Producer:  Marissa Roberts: https://www.instagram.com/marissarobertsofficial/ Thanks for listening to The Change, a fully independent podcast.  We appreciate your support and listens, so if you like what we do please tell your friends and leave a five star review!  Send us a voice message here: ⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-change-pod/message⁠

Kat Taylor, Season 2 winner of Ch9’s Parental Guidance sits down with Cath and Laura to have a hilarious chat about the roller coaster of peri/menopause, parenting and everything in between.  Kat talks about the need for safe spaces for women to share their experiences and support each other.  We talk about Kat’s experience with perimenopause and the challenges she has faced. Including the emotional breakdown she had while searching for a sentimental book, which led her to discover that she was in the thick of perimenopause.  With thanks to Kat Taylor.  Kat Taylor's Instagram Kat Taylor’s TikTok Mentions and fabulous menopause resources: Dr Fatima Khan - Menopause Specialist  Dr Ginni Mansberg  Dr Mary Claire Dr Naomi Potter Dr Jen Hacker Pearson Dr Louise Newsome - Menopause Doctor Dr Ceri Cashell Kaz Cooke Hosts: Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/ Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/ Audio Producer:  Marissa Roberts: https://www.instagram.com/marissarobertsofficial/ Thanks for listening to The Change, a fully independent podcast.  We appreciate your support and listens, so if you like what we do please tell your friends and leave a five star review!  Send us a voice message here: ⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-change-pod/message⁠

In this episode Belinda shares her colorful and eventful life story, from being a single mother to battling postnatal depression and breast cancer.  She discusses her journey of overcoming alcohol addiction and finding her passion for coaching and supporting women. We talk about how it is important to embrace change, support each other through life’s challenges and remember to celebrate all the stages of our lives.  With thanks to Belinda Stark.  Belinda Stark's instagram Belinda Stark website Embrace Midlife with Belinda Stark Mentions:  Sissy Mt Eliza website Hosts: Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/ Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/ Audio Producer:  Marissa Roberts: https://www.instagram.com/marissarobertsofficial/ Thanks for listening to The Change, a fully independent podcast.  We appreciate your support and listens, so if you like what we do please tell your friends and leave a five star review!  Send us a voice message here: ⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-change-pod/message⁠

Jayne McCartney, a sexologist, shares her journey into the field and the importance of sexual exploration and self-reflection. Cath and Laura have a fabulous chat with Jayne about how sexuality can vary in midlife and the importance of communication at all stages.  Jayne is passionate about celebrating all milestones in our lives including menopause and that women need more support as we go through it.  With thanks to Jayne McCartney.  Jayne McCartney’s instagram  Jayne McCartney website  Mentions:  Come As You Are by Dr. Emily Metkoski Welcome to Sex by Dr Melissa Kang & Yumi Stynes  Scarlet teen website  Hosts: Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/ Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/ Audio Producer:  Marissa Roberts: https://www.instagram.com/marissarobertsofficial/ Thanks for listening to The Change, a fully independent podcast.  We appreciate your support and listens, so if you like what we do please tell your friends and leave a five star review!  Send us a voice message here: ⁠⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/the-change-pod/message⁠