Menopause - The Real Deal

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Could THAT Be Menopause? The Surprising Symptoms We Don't Talk About

Wed, 09 Sep 2026 01:00:00 +0100

What if some of the strange changes happening to your body aren't random after all?

When we think about menopause symptoms, hot flushes, night sweats and changing periods probably spring to mind. But hormonal changes can affect far more of the body than many women realise, sometimes showing up in ways that seem completely unrelated to menopause.

In this episode, I'm joined by GP and BMS-accredited Menopause Specialist and Trainer Dr Rebeccah Tomlinson for a fascinating conversation about the lesser-known symptoms of perimenopause and menopause, including some that surprised even us as health professionals.

Together, we uncover just how wide-ranging the effects of hormonal change can be, including some symptoms neither of us would immediately have associated with menopause. It's a conversation that shows just how much there still is to understand about the way hormones can affect us, and why joining the dots isn't always as straightforward as we might think.

REBECCAH REVEALS

Why symptoms that appear completely unrelated to menopause can sometimes have a hormonal connection, and why they can be so easily missed.
How declining and fluctuating hormones can affect areas of the body we don't necessarily associate with menopause, from our joints and connective tissues to our skin, senses and nervous system.
Why some women suddenly develop fears or anxiety around things they've done confidently for years, and what hormones could have to do with it.
How hormonal changes can sometimes mimic other conditions, potentially leading women down a path of referrals, investigations and even treatment that doesn't address what's actually driving their symptoms.
Why vaginal and bladder symptoms are about far more than dryness, and why recognising and treating them could have implications for women's health well beyond menopause.

BEST MOMENTS

“We kind of push it away as just part of getting older rather than actually, is this hormonally driven?”

“The body doesn't read the textbook. It just does what it wants to do.”

“And then you wonder why we sit here and think we're going mad, because you're just like, well, that's not in any book I've read.”

“A lot of consultations don't get to that last bit of the conversation. We get to, ‘Everything's normal. Fine, go.’”

EPISODE RESOURCES

Website: https://empoweralltraining.co.uk/

Corporate Training: https://empoweralltraining.co.uk/corporate-training/

Clinician Training: https://empoweralltraining.co.uk/clinician-training/

Patient Advice and Guidance Clinics: https://empoweralltraining.co.uk/patient-clinics/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@empoweralltraining?_r=1&_t=ZN-99YrEVpfJaB

Want practical, evidence-informed support with menopause? Visit Panacea Pause to explore Michelle’s resources, services and ways to work with her.

ABOUT MICHELLE

CONNECT WITH MICHELLE

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michelle.rowlinson.official/

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

When Menopause Isn't on Your Radar: Joining the Dots Between Food, Mood & Health | Babita Paul

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 01:00:00 +0100

What happens when you know something isn't right with your health, but you can't work out what's going on or why you suddenly don't feel like yourself?

Changes in our physical and mental health can creep in gradually, making it difficult to understand what is happening or whether seemingly unrelated symptoms might actually be connected. And when the answers we're given don't explain the whole picture, knowing where to look next can be even harder.

My guest today is Babita Paul, a registered nutritionist with the Royal Society for Public Health and certified menopause coach, whose own experience of struggling with her health eventually changed the direction of her life and led her to retrain to help other women.

Together, we explore what Babita's experience taught her about how interconnected our health can be and why understanding what is happening in our bodies isn't always straightforward. We also talk about looking beyond individual symptoms and solutions, becoming more aware of what affects our own health, and how Babita went from trying to find answers for herself to supporting other women.

BABITA REVEALS

Why she didn't connect what was happening to her health with perimenopause at the time, and what she was eventually able to recognise with hindsight.

What happened when, with her GP monitoring her blood results, she began making changes to her diet and lifestyle, and how that experience ultimately led her to retrain.
What chronic inflammation actually means, how it differs from acute inflammation and some of the ways it may show up in everyday life.
Why she believes the gut has an important role to play during menopause and how her interest in gut health became part of the work she does today.
How menopause-related changes can be misunderstood in the workplace, particularly when a woman herself doesn't yet understand what is happening.
Why making lots of changes at once can become another source of overwhelm, and the value of finding manageable changes that work for you.

BEST MOMENTS

“This person that was looking back at me in my reflection in the mirror was just not me. It didn't feel like me. I didn't know the person. I didn't know myself.”

“I was struggling, but I couldn't say what was happening to me because I didn't actually know.”

“You've no longer got buffers where you could get away with it before. You've got to listen now to your body.”

“Everything works together, nothing really works in isolation.”

“If you're already in burnout, you don't need another big to-do list to do for your health. You really don't. Just little steps.”

EPISODE RESOURCES

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/babitapaulmenopauseadvocate

Email: info@ncmenopause.com

Want practical, evidence-informed support with menopause? Visit Panacea Pause to explore Michelle’s resources, services and ways to work with her.

ABOUT MICHELLE

CONNECT WITH MICHELLE

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michelle.rowlinson.official/

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Menopause, Longevity & Why Your Best Years Could Still Be Ahead | Dr Karina Loyo

Wed, 26 Aug 2026 01:00:00 +0100

What if menopause isn't the beginning of the end, but the point where we start thinking differently about how we want to live the next 30, 40 or even 50 years?

We're often taught to think about ageing in terms of what we'll lose: strength, independence, mobility, health and eventually our ability to do the things we love. But how much of that decline is inevitable, and how much influence do the choices we're making now have over the way we'll live later?

My guest today is Dr Karina Loyo, a Longevity Architect™, author and speaker whose fascination with healthy ageing began when, at just 19 years old, she unexpectedly found herself helping to care for her grandparents. That experience sparked a question that has shaped more than 30 years of her work: how can we remain healthy, independent and in control of our lives for as long as possible?

Together, we explore why menopause and midlife can be an important opportunity to invest in our future health rather than fear getting older. We discuss muscle, movement and the surprisingly simple things we can build into everyday life, but also the parts of longevity we hear far less about, including friendships, purpose, caregiving and financial security. And Karina introduces a completely different kind of "Try-Athlete", which might just change how you think about what you're capable of in the years ahead.

KARINA REVEALS

Why we can spend more than 40 hours planning a one-week holiday, yet barely any time planning what we want the next 30 or 40 years of our lives to look like.
Why being afraid of looking foolish could be stopping us from discovering the things that make us feel most alive as we get older.
The little-known condition affecting our muscles as we age, why we hear far less about it than osteoporosis, and the knock-on effects it can have on our health.
Why the friendships we make and maintain could have a surprisingly powerful influence on how long and how well we live.
How caring for an ageing parent can quietly change the course of our own future, and why a health crisis in one generation can become a financial crisis in the next.

BEST MOMENTS

“We shouldn't even dwell in who we were before, because the truth is we can create anybody we want to be in our future. It's up to us.”

“I'm too old. Says who? Says who?”

“Just try new things and you will discover that there's so many more dimensions to you than you ever thought possible.”

“We've got to save enough for retirement, right? But then we don't really hear you've got to save your body for retirement too.”

EPISODE RESOURCES

WEBSITE: https://www.drkarina.com

Dr. Karina's Community: https://www.drkarina.com/karina-loyo-ph-d-community

LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drkarinaloyo

FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/drkarinaloyo

@agingwithKarina

INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/agingwithkarina/

Longevity Blueprint for Health, Wealth and Purpose Book Info: https://www.drkarina.com/longevity_blueprint

Family Care Plan: https://amzn.to/3S8RVwy

My List of Healthy Lifelong Habits (Free download): https://www.drkarina.com/life-long-habits

ABOUT MICHELLE

CONNECT WITH MICHELLE

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michelle.rowlinson.official/

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Enter the Saga: https://thewarriorgoddesssaga.com

Lost Yourself in Menopause? Why Midlife Could Be a Homecoming | Lisa Barwise

Wed, 19 Aug 2026 01:00:00 +0100

What if feeling like you've lost yourself in menopause doesn't mean you're disappearing, but that you're beginning to uncover who you are now?

Many women reach midlife feeling as though something has shifted beyond the physical symptoms of menopause. We may find ourselves questioning things we've accepted for years, feeling differently about our bodies and relationships, or wondering why we no longer recognise the woman we've become.

My guest today is Lisa Barwise, a wellness alchemist, fitness feminist and author of Unarmoured and Burned. After reaching a point in her own life when she realised she could no longer keep pushing through, Lisa began to look more deeply at what women carry with them into midlife and what can happen when we begin to put some of it down.

Together, we explore menopause through a much wider lens than symptoms alone, looking at identity, health, strength, ageing and the expectations women can accumulate over a lifetime. We also discuss why this stage can be incredibly difficult, while at the same time becoming a point at which we begin to question what we want, what still fits and how we want the next part of our lives to look.

LISA REVEALS

What she means by “armour weight”, the different forms it can take and why some of what women carry in midlife has nothing to do with calories or the number on the scales.
Why she describes menopause as a “homecoming”, and how questioning some of the identities and expectations we've accumulated can help us reconnect with ourselves.
How the “inner mean girl” can influence our confidence and self-trust, and why learning to recognise those deeply ingrained messages matters.
What Lisa means by “sacred strength”, and why becoming stronger physically can also change how we see ourselves and what we believe we're capable of.
Why she believes ageing and decline aren't the same thing, and why it's never too late to become stronger, change our habits or discover what works for us.

BEST MOMENTS

“We can make things happen, we can push on, but at what cost?”

“Menopause isn't something to fix. It's just a transition. It's just part of who we are.”

“Self-trust is the doorway to your intuition.”

“I think that it can be our strongest era when we start to do the shifts... to realise the potential that we have.”

EPISODE RESOURCES

Instagram: www.instagram.com/lisa_barwise

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000241260393

Website: thewarriorgoddesssaga.com

ABOUT MICHELLE

CONNECT WITH MICHELLE

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michelle.rowlinson.official/

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Are We Overcomplicating Menopause? Why Getting Back to Basics Matters | Jenine Wright

Wed, 12 Aug 2026 01:00:00 +0100

When we're surrounded by supplements, diets, exercise trends and conflicting health advice, it's easy to believe that improving our health needs to be complicated. But are we spending so much time searching for the next solution that we're overlooking the things that could make the biggest difference?

My guest today is Jenine Wright, an Exercise Physiologist and Nutrition Therapy Practitioner with more than 30 years' experience in health and wellness. Her approach is about moving away from quick fixes and looking at the foundations that support our health throughout life, and become even more important as we move through perimenopause, menopause and beyond.

Together, we explore why women are becoming increasingly overwhelmed by conflicting health advice, how to question who and what we're trusting online, and why movement, nutrition, sleep, stress, relationships and our environment all matter.

We also discuss the impact of increasingly sedentary lifestyles, what endocrine-disrupting chemicals are and where we encounter them, the reality of our changing food environment, and simple changes that can help us take greater control of our health without feeling we need to change everything at once.

JENINE REVEALS

Why chasing supplements, diets and wellness trends without addressing the foundations of our health is like putting frosting on a cake that doesn't taste good.
Why movement matters so much during menopause and as we age, and how even small increases in what we're able to do can make a difference.
Where endocrine-disrupting chemicals can be hiding in our everyday lives and realistic ways to reduce our exposure without becoming overwhelmed.
How her Live Better Journal helps people identify what's affecting their health, cut through information overload and make sustainable changes one step at a time.

BEST MOMENTS

"We tell them what they want to hear instead of what they need to hear."

"If you think about the amount of money that we're spending, billions of dollars on these supplements, and we're not fixing our foundations. So at the end of the day, you're adding this frosting on your cake. And your cake tastes terrible."

"People that don't have the money to spend on all of these fixes, on all of these supplements, they feel like, 'Well, then there's no chance for me.' And that's just not true."

"At the end of the day, you can have an anti-inflammatory diet by just eating whole foods and avoiding all of the stuff that's packaged."

ABOUT MICHELLE

CONNECT WITH MICHELLE

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michelle.rowlinson.official/

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

The Menopause Treatment Debate: Has the Evidence Outgrown the Guidelines?

Wed, 05 Aug 2026 01:00:00 +0100

If menopause treatment is about replacing missing hormones, why are progesterone and testosterone still so often overlooked?

For many women, HRT can be life changing.

For others, it never seems to make enough difference.

So what if the conversation is more complex than we've been led to believe?

In this episode, I explore one of the biggest debates in menopause care today. As research continues to evolve, more questions are being asked about the wider roles of progesterone and testosterone, how current prescribing guidance reflects the evidence, and whether some women are still missing out on treatment approaches that could make a real difference.

Whether you're trying to understand your own treatment options or you're a healthcare professional wanting to better understand the evidence, this episode will challenge the way you think about hormone replacement therapy.

IN THIS EPISODE

• Why menopause treatment remains so heavily centred around oestrogen

• The ongoing debate around progesterone and testosterone

• What current prescribing guidance says

• The wider roles of progesterone throughout the body

• Why progesterone after hysterectomy remains such a debated topic

• Why testosterone is still so difficult for women to access in the UK

• Why some women are left believing HRT simply didn't work for them

• Where the evidence is beginning to take us

BEST MOMENTS

"Hormones don't work in isolation. They're an orchestra, not a solo performance."

"Medicine evolves. Research evolves. Our understanding of women's hormones should evolve alongside it."

"Sometimes the question isn't whether HRT didn't work. It's whether the right hormone was ever being replaced."

"Better questions lead to better research. Better research leads to better guidelines. Better guidelines lead to better outcomes for women."

Know someone who's still searching for answers? Share this episode with them.

ABOUT MICHELLE

CONNECT WITH MICHELLE

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/michelle.rowlinson.official/

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://www.breakthroughcoachingtas.com/breakthrough-community

Your Body Isn't Working Against You: Menopause, Stress & The Nervous System - with Donna Selby

Wed, 29 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0100

Have you ever felt like your body has suddenly turned against you?

For many women, perimenopause and menopause can bring anxiety, exhaustion, brain fog, overwhelm and a whole host of physical symptoms that seem to appear out of nowhere. It's easy to feel like your body is failing you.

But what if it wasn't?

In this episode, I'm joined by holistic coach and intuitive guide Donna Selby for a fascinating conversation about the connection between menopause, chronic stress and the nervous system, and why what feels like your body working against you may actually be your body's way of asking you to slow down and pay attention.

Donna shares the deeply personal story of the breakdown that changed the course of her life, how years of putting everyone else first left her physically and emotionally exhausted, and why learning to regulate her nervous system transformed the way she understood both her health and herself.

Together, we explore the impact of chronic stress, people-pleasing, guilt and boundaries during midlife, practical techniques to help calm the nervous system, and why changing the questions we ask ourselves can sometimes change everything.

Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by your symptoms or simply looking for a different perspective on menopause, this episode offers reassurance, hope and practical strategies to help you move forward with greater self-awareness and self-compassion.

Donna Reveals

Why feeling like your body is "failing" or "turning against you" may actually be your body's way of signalling overload.
How chronic stress can leave the nervous system stuck in fight-or-flight, and why teaching your body that it's safe is often the first step towards feeling better.
Why boundaries, self-compassion and letting go of guilt can have a powerful impact on your wellbeing during midlife.
Simple breathing techniques and daily practices that can help calm an overwhelmed nervous system.
Why replacing "Why is this happening to me?" with "What is this teaching me?" can help you approach life's challenges from a place of curiosity rather than fear.

BEST MOMENTS

"Our bodies are constantly communicating with us, especially during times of stress, transition and change."

"What feels like your biggest breakdown can sometimes become your greatest breakthrough."

"You cannot think your way out of stress or fight-or-flight. You need to teach the body first that it is safe."

"Everything happens for you, not to you. Instead of asking 'Why is this happening to me?', ask 'What is this teaching me?'"

EPISODE RESOURCES

Youtube Starfish Breath Technique Clip https://youtu.be/jsUPnzAd44I

Break through coaching Tasmania https://www.facebook.com/breakthroughcoachingtasmania

HOST BIO

A best-selling author and sought-after speaker, Michelle combines deep clinical expertise with relatable, real-world experience. Through her podcast, "Menopause - The Real Deal," she offers evidence-based guidance, authentic conversations, and practical strategies. Listeners trust Michelle for her empathetic understanding and her commitment to helping women thrive, making her a leading voice in the menopause space.

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

When Your Body Is Trying To Tell You Something: Menopause and Intuition with Felicia Linsky

Wed, 22 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0100

When Your Body Is Trying To Tell You Something: Menopause and Intuition with Felicia Linsky

Sometimes the biggest health challenges don't arrive overnight. They begin with subtle whispers from our mind and body that something isn't quite right.

Today’s guest, Felicia Linsky, also known as The Wellbeing Whisperer, spent three decades in Hollywood helping some of the world's biggest names look and feel their best. Following six cancer diagnoses and profound personal challenges, she discovered that her true purpose was helping others reconnect with themselves and learn to trust what their mind and body have been trying to tell them all along.

Together, we explore the common traps we fall into as women when we put everyone else's needs ahead of our own, and discuss how the simple principles in her book Reclaim You can help us reconnect with who we are, trust our intuition, and prioritise our wellbeing before life's whispers become screams.

Felicia Reveals

Why paying attention to the subtle signs and gut feelings our body gives us could change, or even save, our lives.
Why advocating for yourself when you know something isn't right is so important, particularly when others dismiss your concerns.
Why putting yourself first isn't selfish and how continually pouring from an empty cup ultimately affects those we love most.
How taking small moments for yourself each day can help you reconnect with who you are and what truly matters.

BEST MOMENTS

"Sometimes our mind and body whisper to us long before they start screaming."

"If you don't put the mask on first, there will be nothing for you to offer."

"We get so lost in the noise and the bullshit that we don't remember who we are."

"None of the rest of this stuff matters if this inside job isn't managed, heard, seen, and cared for."

EPISODE RESOURCES

Whisper to Power™ App https://www.felicialinsky.com/whisper-free

Felicialinsky.com

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://www.peripowerful.com

Menopause and the Body Revolt: Reclaiming Vitality When Everything Changes - with Ira Tabachnik

Wed, 15 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0100

Have you ever felt like you were doing everything right for your health, only to have your body suddenly completely revolt?

In this episode, I sit down with special guest Ira Tabachnik, the founder of Peri Powerful, who spent over twenty years thriving in a fast-paced corporate career before being hit by severe insomnia, chronic pain, and profound emotional overwhelm in her early forties.

Ira details her personal journey from standard medical dead-ends to taking radical responsibility for her own physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Together, we explore how the sudden upheaval of perimenopause can actually become a beautiful catalyst for deep self-discovery, body literacy, and personal growth.

If you are ready to move beyond simply surviving your symptoms and want to learn how to actively co-create a vital, joyous second half of life, this comforting conversation is exactly what you need to hear.

Ira Reveals

How legitimate healing begins the moment you stop passively delegating your health to a third party and instead activate your own curiosity
Why perimenopause is rarely just a physical transition; it acts as a magnifying glass that brings unresolved emotional baggage, childhood wounds, and relationship stressors directly to the surface to be healed.
How everyone enters midlife with a finite amount of genetic and lifestyle "free health" resources, and why ignoring your body's early warning signs could lead to a sudden, systemic collapse.
The simple, tailored, and time-tested lifestyle shifts that can provide highly personalised frameworks that modern mainstream medicine often overlooks.

BEST MOMENTS

"I considered myself an epitome of health. My ego was very high up there."

"There is no one who is going to save me. I really have to take responsibility for my health from this point on."

"We are not being taught to take care of ourselves and to advocate for ourselves in the health department."

"If you want the change, you have to start loving that uncomfortableness. It is a bridge towards something amazing that can happen."

EPISODE RESOURCES

peripowerful.com/blog

peripowerful.com/coaching

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://www.melodygrace.org/

“What Is Happening To Me?” The Emotional Side of Perimenopause with Melody Grace

Wed, 08 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0100

Have you ever found yourself reacting in ways that feel completely out of character?

In this deeply personal and eye-opening episode, I am thrilled to be joined by clinical hypnotherapist, mindfulness teacher, and creator of the Already Whole app, Melody Grace.

Together, we pull back the curtain on the intense emotional disregulation that so often defines the perimenopause transition, from unexpected outbursts to a profound loss of identity. Melody reframes this turbulent phase not as a breakdown but as an invitation to reconnect with yourself, redefine your boundaries, and discover who you are beyond years of putting everyone else first.

This conversation is a hopeful, empowering reminder that you are not broken, you are simply ready to rediscover who you truly are.

Melody Reveals

Perimenopause acts as a natural boundary-setter, forcing women to stop tolerating the unsustainable expectation that they must always put others first.
Hormonal shifts directly impact the nervous system, leading to intense, unfamiliar emotional spikes like rage or deep anxiety that can make you feel entirely disconnected from yourself.
Just as we maintain physical hygiene, women must practice active energetic boundaries to avoid absorbing the stress and negativity of the world around them.
True healing happens in the gaps between therapy sessions, making daily, accessible tools vital for navigating moments of panic or despair when they actually occur.

BEST MOMENTS

"I found myself disregulated, and that looked like shouting, and I'm not a person who typically yells. I'm like, 'What is happening inside of me?'"

"To feel regulated in ourselves means that our mind and our heart and our body are in sync."

"We often live in a disconnected place. The anxiety and the stress kind of takes us out of our body."

"Women are not broken, they are already whole."

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://studio.com/melody/alreadywhole?a=michelle-rowlinson&c=KD1dfGdf

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://uk.linkedin.com/in/andreaclareart

Reclaim Your Passions And Beat The Menopause Brain Fog - with Andrea Clare

Wed, 01 Jul 2026 00:00:00 +0100

For many women, the brain fog experienced during menopause can be a frightening time. We lose control of the now, and wonder where the person we were before has gone.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Andrea Clare, a passionate menopause educator, who’s on a mission to unite the menopause community in the hopes that working as a team, we can lessen the impact that menopause can have upon our lives. As the founder of the Scottish Summit, she’s here today to offer practical advice on how we can beat the brain fog and reclaim the person we used to be. If you’ve ever lost sight of the person you thought you were, then this conversation could be exactly what you need.

Andrea Reveals

Many life-altering symptoms such as intense brain fog or severe anxiety are frequently dismissed as "just stress" or signs of aging rather than hormone fluctuations.
Reconnecting with a childhood passion or trying a completely new creative outlet (like painting, gardening, or pottery) serves as an effective, grounding tool to calm the nervous system and reclaim your identity.
Because adequate menopause training is still shockingly absent for many medical and healthcare professionals, women must educate themselves, track their symptoms, and actively advocate for their own care.
You may never return to the exact same person you were before perimenopause, but that is not a failure. Menopause is an invitation to evolve into a wiser, stronger, and more resilient version of yourself.

BEST MOMENTS

"I was so ignorant of what was going on in my body. You're grappling for answers as to why you are feeling the way you're feeling, behaving the way you are."

"Discover what brings you joy, and it could be something that you loved as a child. Just to be able to sit and do that. I've rediscovered myself."

"Take responsibility for your body. Don't expect that you can now go and speak to a GP and they're going to make it all right. There is no magic tablet."

"You're never going to get back to how you were prior to the perimenopause. But you can still be amazing. Because this is a new chapter. It’s a new phase of life."

EPISODE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kym-australia-33aaa7301/

Beyond the Scale: Protecting Your Bone Density and Body Composition in Menopause

Wed, 24 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0100

Have you ever felt like your body is rewriting its own rules without your permission?

Today’s episode isn't just about hot flashes and sleepless nights. It’s about reclaiming your strength and confidence. Today I’m joined by the amazing Kym, a health and fitness expert, who’s here to unpack the many ways in which you can take back control of your body, your weight and your health, no matter what stage of life you’re in.

We also talk about the impact that menopause can have upon our wellbeing, our confidence, and our body composition. If you’re struggling to reconcile the body you’ve got with the body you’d like, then this week’s show is definitely for you.

Kym Reveals

Standard training and diet advice tailored for younger bodies often fail to support the unique hormonal needs of women navigating menopause.
Beyond the commonly discussed hot flashes, fluctuating hormone levels significantly impact tendon strength, soft tissue recovery, and emotional resilience.
There remains a significant shortage of comprehensive education for personal trainers and health professionals regarding the physiological realities of menopause.
Body-identical, plant-based HRT offers a nuanced approach to managing changes, yet awareness and ease of access remain major hurdles for many women.

BEST MOMENTS

“Women are losing performance that they'd worked years to build and being told that their efforts were either attitude or 'eat less or work harder, train harder'"

“You can train as a twenty-year-old, but your body's not the same”

“Your periods, your cycles are different now, and as women back then, we would all just push through."

“There's always something new popping up, it's the changes. Those wonderful ladies that went before me, they are right. Absolutely."

EPISODE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://www.instagram.com/karengibbardmenopausecoach/

Beyond the Hot Flush: Karen Gibbard on Identity, Brain Fog, and Finding Yourself Again

Wed, 17 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0100

What if the reason so many women feel frightened, overwhelmed, or like they are losing themselves during perimenopause is because no one prepared them for just how much it can affect the brain, body, emotions, and identity all at once?

Today I am joined by Karen Gibbard, a menopause coach, change management practitioner, and integrative support advocate who discusses her personal perimenopause experience, which began at the age of 41 and brought severe cognitive changes that left her fearing she had onset dementia. We explore the profound emotional toll of menopause, including the loss of confidence, identity shifts, and the grief that can accompany this transition. Karen also shares how her professional background in change management helped her reframe menopause as a major life transition, and we discuss why women who cannot take HRT often feel excluded from the conversation, highlighting the vital need for holistic and community-based support.

Karen Reveals

Menopause can begin in a woman's early 40s (or even 30s) with severe brain fog, memory lapses, and psychological shifts long before any changes occur in her menstrual cycle.
Viewed through the lens of change management, menopause is one of the most significant biological, psychological, and emotional transitions a woman will experience, impacting relationships, work, and identity.
The transition brings a profound sense of loss; of confidence, loss of self, and a deep sense of grief, particularly surrounding the end of fertility, which requires dedicated emotional support.
For women who cannot or choose not to take HRT, there is a critical need for accessible, alternative support systems, including lifestyle adjustments, workplace policies, and community-based safe spaces.

BEST MOMENTS

"I honestly thought that I had early-onset dementia, and it was terrifying. You get to a point sometimes where you barely remembered your own name."

"There's nothing bigger than this in terms of change management. No bigger transition, I don't think, exists."

"Don't settle for 'no.' Don't settle for 'there is nothing I can do to help you.”

"I think what's most missing is that ability to listen. To truly listen. It's that ability to validate another human being"

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenmgibbard/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61582032600965

www.karengibbard.co.uk

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Menopause Symptoms That No One Warns You About

Wed, 10 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0100

Have you ever experienced one symptom, then another, and thought, “What on earth is going on with my body?”

In this episode, I explore some of the lesser-known symptoms that can occur during perimenopause and menopause and why they can leave women feeling confused, worried, dismissed, or searching for answers in all the wrong places.

You aren’t losing your plot, and you certainly aren’t alone. Your hormones are simply sending your body off-script, and it is time we joined the dots.

Michelle Reveals

Hormones influence virtually every system in the body, which means fluctuating levels can trigger a massive range of unexpected physical and emotional responses.
Conditions like Burning Mouth Syndrome, formication (the sensation of insects crawling under the skin), and unexplained vocal changes are deeply unsettling but entirely tied to changing hormone levels.
Many women are dismissed by professionals or given ineffective localised treatments because their symptoms don't fit the classic textbook definition of menopause.
Understanding the physiological "why" behind these symptoms helps women move past confusion and anxiety, empowering them to advocate for better care and support.

BEST MOMENTS

"Nobody really sits women down and explains that hormones influence virtually every system in the body."

"The problem is that when those symptoms appear, they don't arrive with a little label attached saying, 'Hello, I'm from perimenopause.'"

"Not because symptoms aren't real, not because they're imagining them, but because nobody is joining the dots."

"Sometimes the scariest part isn't the symptom itself. It's not knowing why it's happening."

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Redefining Menopause as a Public Health Issue - with Beverley Powell

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:00 +0100

I talk with the incredible Beverley Powell, strategic EDI specialist, leadership coach, and founder of Rest, Rise, Reclaim, to blow the lid off the silent struggles high-functioning women face in midlife.

Together, we explore how professional women quietly mask their exhaustion under immense pressure, and why we must urgently shift the narrative from viewing menopause as a lonely, individual burden to recognising it as a critical public health priority.

It’s a powerful call to action for anyone who has ever felt like they had to just keep pushing through, offering you the validation, hope, and empowering tools you need to reclaim your body, your boundaries, and your voice.

Beverley Reveals

Why high-performing women in leadership positions often master the art of hiding distress and over-performing to appear fine externally, which drastically accelerates midlife burnout.
How menopause impacts women socially, economically, and politically as a systemic public health issue, not just a minor workplace or individual inconvenience.
For women with darker skin tones, managing vitamin D3 levels is essential, as deficiencies closely tie into crucial midlife health factors like chronic stress, inflammation, and cardiovascular risks.
Why chronic stress and past trauma fundamentally alter the nervous system, drastically intensifying menopausal symptoms like brain fog, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm.

BEST MOMENTS

"Masking is just a process of hiding distress. It's about suppressing emotions or over-performing to appear fine externally."

"It's a public health issue. Because menopause affects women socially, economically, politically, because we are no longer working."

"We have some talented women who've worked many years, who have a lot of insight and knowledge, but suddenly the menopause kicks in and they need to leave."

"Your body may be asking for support, so rest and change, not more self-criticism."

EPISODE LINKS

Website: https://restrisereclaim.com/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beverley-powellukcoachleader/

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Rebecca with homemade feather boa

Menopause And Mental Health - with Rebecca Bloom

Wed, 27 May 2026 00:00:00 +0100

I talk with licensed mental health counsellor and art therapist Rebecca Bloom to unpack why so many perimenopausal women are being misdiagnosed with psychiatric conditions like anxiety and depression. We dive into the shocking lack of menopause education among medical and mental health professionals, share our own messy personal experiences with perimenopause, and explore how local and systemic hormone shifts deeply affect our relationships, intimacy, and nervous systems.

Together we create a validating reminder that you are not going crazy, you are going through a profound physiological shift, and there is hope, community, and the right medical support waiting to help you reclaim your life

Rebecca Reveals

How menopause receives virtually zero attention in medical and specialist mental health training
Why women are frequently misdiagnosed with new-onset clinical depression or anxiety because professionals fail to recognise that the simultaneous collapse of multiple bodily systems is actually perimenopause.
How midlife and older women's health is historically understudied and ignored, forcing women to turn to OSINT (open-source intelligence), peer research, and community groups to figure out their own symptoms.
How post-menopause brings a liberating phase of life where the stabilising of hormones allows women to shed societal norms, care less about outside opinions, and enthusiastically lean into their own joy and creative projects.

BEST MOMENTS

"Imagine if five bodily systems went down at once. How would you respond? You'd probably feel really crazy and really crappy."

"My sex therapy training was 90 hours of training. We spent nine minutes on menopause. No one's talking about it, or thinking about it, or teaching about it."

"I always tell women, one in seven women leave their jobs during menopause because it is so stressful."

"I'm like fully in my 'crone' era of like, it doesn't matter what the outside world thinks. This is going to give me incredible joy."

EPISODE LINKS

Website

Instagram

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

The Hidden Neurological Side of Menopause with Dr Ali Ajaz

Wed, 20 May 2026 00:00:00 +0100

What if the reason so many women are being told they are anxious, burnt out, or depressed is simply because medicine still fails to fully understand the impact of hormones on the female brain and body?

In this eye-opening episode , I sit down with consultant psychiatrist Dr Ali Ajaz to bridge the massive gap between psychiatry, neuroendocrinology, and women’s mental health.

Together, we explore what is actually happening to the female brain during perimenopause and menopause, and why symptoms like anxiety, brain fog, ADHD traits, insomnia, and emotional dysregulation are so often misunderstood or misdiagnosed as psychiatrict disorders.

If you have ever felt dismissed by a healthcare professional or confused by "normal" blood tests while feeling anything but normal, this validating and eye-opening conversation will give you the clarity, hope, and scientific validation you deserve.

Dr Ajaz Reveals

How sex hormones like oestrogen, progesterone, and testosterone function as neuroactive steroids in the brain.
Why the modern medical system is largely built around historic models of male biology, and women's health is often siloed rather than viewed holistically.
How psychological trauma alters the body's stress response axis over the long term, which can trigger severe psychological boundaries to collapse, leading to profound emotional dysregulation.
Why the widespread panic surrounding Hormone Replacement Therapy stemming from the 2002 Women's Health Initiative study is largely due to misinterpreted data.

BEST MOMENTS

"Hormones are psychiatry"

"Women's health has been considered to be a subset of a medical specialty, where really it should be a foundational pillar of medicine."

"Modern medicine loves giving labels. The labels in and of themselves are very limited in their meaning. They're there really to help direct which medications are licensed for a certain label. They don't really have any utility around actually why someone is depressed."

"The story of HRT and cancer is medicine's most consequential examples of misinterpreted data. The conversation has been completely disproportionate to the actual evidence."

EPISODE LINKS

Website: https://draliajaz.co.uk

Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@draliajaz?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/draliajaz/

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynnette-ellison-wing-woman

Reclaiming Your Energy, Confidence And Identity In Menopause - with Lynnette Ellison

Wed, 13 May 2026 00:00:00 +0100

I’m joined by the fabulous Lynnette Ellison, the founder of Wing Woman Plus, and a career professional who’s mastered that tense balancing act between being a carer, conducting a career, and still regaining that sense of self and self-worth that so many women feel slipping through their fingers during perimenopause and menopause.

We discuss proven science-backed strategies designed to help you to achieve hormonal harmony, and the mindset shifts necessary to feel like yourself again with the aim of leaving you feeling deeply seen, thoroughly informed, and genuinely excited about the wisdom and strength many women do not realise is possible during this pivotal phase of life.

Lynnette Reveals

How understanding your unique hormonal blueprint can transform your daily energy levels and long-term wellness.
Why small, consistent shifts in nutrition and movement are your greatest allies in managing symptoms like brain fog and sleep disturbances.
Why this life stage is the perfect catalyst for setting new boundaries and prioritising your own needs without apology.
Practical tips for navigating medical appointments and ensuring your voice is heard by healthcare providers.

BEST MOMENTS

"Menopause is not a pause on life; it’s a recalibration of your power."

"We have to stop treating symptoms in isolation and start looking at the incredible, complex woman as a whole."

"You aren't losing your mind; you are shedding an old skin to make room for a version of yourself that is far more resilient."

"The greatest gift of this transition is the clarity it brings. Suddenly, you realise you have no more time to waste on things that don't serve your soul."

EPISODE LINKS

https://wingwomanplus.co.uk

HOST BIO

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/michelle.rowlinson.official/

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Free 30-Minute Consultation Call

Reclaiming Your Career After Menopause: Pushing Through The Pivot Point - with Debbie Taylor

Wed, 06 May 2026 00:00:00 +0100

This time I’m joined by life coach Debbie Taylor to talk about the reality of how perimenopause and menopause can affect women in the workplace, and why so many women are misunderstood, unsupported, or even pushed out of their jobs as a result.

When perimenopause hits, we can feel like our super powers are being stripped away, replaced by brain fog, fatigue, and an overwhelming sense of disconnect at work. Couple this with a shocking lack of support from professionals who should know better, and many women can suddenly feel left behind and undervalued.

Debbie talks about how she helps high-capacity women navigate this messy transition, helping them understand their nervous systems and reclaim their identity so they can move forward with hope and a renewed sense of purpose.

Debbie Reveals

Why many women experience a peak in career pressure just as hormonal shifts begin, leading to a perfect storm of burnout and misunderstood symptoms.
Menopause isn't just about hormones; it’s an unveiling of the long-term stress and damage we've done to our nervous systems by pushing through for decades.
While Hormone Replacement Therapy is a vital tool, it was originally designed for post-menopausal women; perimenopausal women often need a more nuanced approach that includes lifestyle and stress management.
One in ten women leave their jobs specifically due to menopause symptoms, often because they feel managed out rather than supported by their employers.

BEST MOMENTS

"Menopause is the 366th day after your last period. Actually, we only experience perimenopause and post-menopause."

"What most women are experiencing is not just about hormones; it's about what their nervous system is doing. What it's revealing is all this damage we've been doing to ourselves for 20 years."

"We are the 'f*** it' generation. We have grown up louder than our mothers and grandmothers were ever allowed to be."

"It’s the first time in my life that I love myself... to be able to step into who you actually are once you hit this era is magical."

EPISODE LINKS

https://messylifecoach.co.uk

https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbie-taylor-messy-life-coach-264b7733

hello@messylifecoach.co.uk

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Why You Feel Like You’re Losing Yourself

Wed, 29 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0100

If you’ve been feeling like a stranger in your own body, waking up at 3:00 AM with a racing heart or snapping at your loved ones for no clear reason, I want you to know that you are not going crazy and you are certainly not alone.

For too long, our experiences have been dismissed as "just stress" or "just your hormones," but in this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what is actually happening inside your brain.

My goal is to move us past the labels of anxiety or burnout and into a place of true understanding and self-compassion. This phase of life is a challenge, but when we understand the why behind our symptoms, we can stop blaming ourselves and start finding the support we truly deserve to feel like ourselves again.

Michelle Reveals

How progesterone is the calming hormone that supports GABA, your brain's natural chill-out neurotransmitter
Why oestrogen doesn't just regulate your cycle; it influences a cocktail of vital neurotransmitters meaning fluctuations can cause everything from memory lapses to a total loss of drive.
How your stress response system (the HPA axis) becomes much more reactive during menopause, making it harder for your body to come back down after a stressful event
Why menopausal symptoms mimic clinical anxiety, burnout, or even ADHD, many women are given a label rather than an explanation, leading to treatments that address the surface symptoms

BEST MOMENTS

"These hormones are not just sitting there quietly in the background. They are interacting directly with your brain."

"You’re tired, but your brain won’t switch off... your mind decides now is the perfect time to replay every conversation you’ve ever had since 1998."

"It’s not that you’ve suddenly become less capable... it’s that the chemical environment your brain relies on to function properly is no longer stable."

"No woman needs to be suffering through this completely natural phase of life. With the right education and support, it can feel very different."

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://www.moveatworkchallenge.com/ADHDhabits

The Truth About Perimenopause, ADHD, and Brain Health - with Dr. Saara Haapanen

Wed, 22 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0100

This time, I talk to performance and wellness expert Dr. Saara Haapanen to uncover why so many high-functioning women feel like they are losing their focus and motivation during perimenopause. We explore the fascinating and often overlooked link between hormonal fluctuations and neurodiversity, specifically how the drop in oestrogen can unmask ADHD traits or cause existing coping strategies to crumble.

Dr. Saara shares her powerful "13 M's" framework to help us understand the various factors affecting our performance, moving us away from all-or-nothing thinking and toward small, sustainable wins.

It’s a conversation that’ll leave you feeling validated, informed, and hopeful, equipped with practical tools like movement-based regulation and mindset shifts to help you reclaim your sense of self and thrive through this transition

Saara Reveals

Why oestrogen levels fluctuate wildly during perimenopause before eventually declining, and how these shifts can significantly impair motivation, focus, and emotional regulation.
How many women discover they have ADHD during perimenopause because the hormonal support they relied on to mask their symptoms disappears.
How you can physically grow the part of the brain that handles difficult tasks by making and keeping small promises to yourself
Why sustainable wellness isn't about massive overhauls; it is about timeline splits, where making a choice that is just 1% better for your future self can create a trajectory for long-term success.

BEST MOMENTS

"If you would never utter these words to your best friend or to another human being, why are you uttering them to yourself?"

"There's no wagon. You're not on or off the wagon. You have every single day of your life... it’s about making a choice for your future self in that moment."

"ADHD is a superpower as long as you know how to work with it."

"If it doesn't challenge you, it doesn't change you, but your ACC is the part of your brain that you can grow every time you do something hard."

SHOW RESOURCES

https://drsaara.com/

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://bay-lifestyle.com/

Why Honoring Your Menopause Instincts Are Vital - with Johanna Godinez

Wed, 15 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0100

I sit down with Johanna Godinez to explore her journey of navigating menopause after facing a medical system that often feels dismissive of symptoms.

Johanna shares how she moved away from standard hormonal treatments to reclaim her health through a more holistic path, examining the profound impact of daily habits, stress management, and the fascinating practice of seed cycling, proving that even when the road to menopause begins unexpectedly early, there is immense power in listening to your body and finding a rhythm that works for you.

Far too often, symptoms and concerns about menopause health are dismissed by the experts on high. But this conversation offers you the same sense of hope and autonomy that Johanna’s story brings, reminding us all that we can find balance and vitality at any stage of life.

Johanna Reveals

No one knows your body better than you do, which is why women should seek alternative perspectives when medical advice feels blunt or incomplete.
Seed Cycling is a transformative nutritional tool, using specific seeds like flax, pumpkin, sesame, and sunflower to support hormone production and detoxification throughout the lunar or menstrual cycle.
High cortisol levels from chronic stress can throw the entire endocrine system out of balance; Johanna advocates for yoga and breath work to regulate the nervous system and protect hormonal health.
A combination of movement, proper sleep, and a plant-aligned diet provides more sustainable relief for menopause symptoms.

BEST MOMENTS

“The doctor told me that my hormones were like a 70-year-old’s hormones. Even for someone who didn't want children, I felt like the doctor no tact."

"Yoga is a practice about understanding your mind and understanding how you create your own reality. It's not about what happens, but how you react to what happens."

"No doctor knows more about what I’m feeling than what I do. Honouring that is so important."

"The mind is a great servant, but it's not a very good master. And when it's the master, there's an issue in all of our being."

SHOW RESOURCES

https://www.instagram.com/bay_lifestylepr

Video clip: https://youtu.be/GaEx7s3Hpfg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n6Q5Lr38FmU

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

bit.ly/relaxationwithsally

Menopause As A Metamorphosis: Navigating The Nervous System with Sally Garozzo

Wed, 08 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0100

In this episode, I’m joined by clinical hypnotherapist Sally Garozzo to dive deep into why perimenopause can feel so overwhelming, especially when long-standing stress or past traumas come to the surface.

Together we explore the idea that menopause isn’t just a hormonal shift, but a profound neurological and psychological transition, talking openly about the metamorphosis of this stage of life, the power of hypnotherapy to rewire our responses to stress, and why it is finally time to stop carrying everyone else’s expectations.

Sally Reveals

Why trauma and chronic stress don't just affect our emotions. They physically alter the brain's threat detection system which can make menopausal symptoms like anxiety and insomnia feel much more intense.
How during perimenopause, the drop in progesterone can leave the nervous system without its usual buffer, potentially leading to progesterone intolerance or heightened reactivity.
Why menopause is an opportunity to shed a false identity or roles we played in the past to become more authentic and attuned to our own needs.
How through tools like hypnotherapy and somatic awareness, it is possible to dial down a heightened alarm system and move from a state of constant activation to one of safety and regulation.

BEST MOMENTS

"Think of a caterpillar inside a cocoon turning to mush. I will emerge as a butterfly, but right now I'm going into that mushy stage and I really don't have very much capacity to do the things I used to do."

"The call of menopause is to become more of ourselves"

"I tend not to pathologise things. There's always a reason why we're experiencing burnout, insomnia, anxiety, or depression, and that's what I'm very curious about in my practice."

"Self-care, self-care, self-care. Strip it all back. Say no, do the bare minimum, and ask for help."

SHOW RESOURCES

www.sallygarozzo.com

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://www.subscribepage.com/the-essential-thyroid-testing-checklist

The Hidden Connection Between Thyroid, Autoimmunity, and Menopause - with Helen Mallaburn

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0100

I’m joined by nutritional therapist Helen Mallaburn to unpack the complex and often overlapping relationship between thyroid health and menopause. After years of navigating her own diagnoses of Hashimoto’s and fibromyalgia, and being told that the fatigue and brain fog were "just hormones”, Helen pulls back the curtain on why they might actually be signs of an underlying thyroid or autoimmune condition.

Helen brings her vast knowledge of body science, as well as the backing of the thriving community she has created in order to empower others with the scientific knowledge and practical nutritional strategies she used to reclaim her own health, proving that with the right testing and lifestyle shifts, you don't have to just get used to feeling unwell.

Helen Reveals

How many classic menopause signs like unexplained weight gain, chronic fatigue, and brain fog are also hallmark symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, making it easy for one to be mistaken for the other.
Why comprehensive medical checks should include Free T4, Free T3, and thyroid antibodies to accurately diagnose conditions like Hashimoto’s.
How shifting to a whole-food, anti-inflammatory diet can significantly reduce the chronic inflammation that drives autoimmune flares and worsens menopausal symptoms.
How high cortisol levels from chronic stress suppress thyroid hormone production and increase Reverse T3, acting like a brake system on your metabolism and energy.

BEST MOMENTS

"I was pretty much told that basically this is just how it's going to be and you need to just adapt and get used to it... I didn't really want to accept that."

"TSH isn't a thyroid hormone; it's a stimulating hormone produced by your brain... whether your thyroid decides to do that is a completely different matter."

"Our endocrine system likes everything to be in balance. If one system isn't in balance, it will try and compensate with the other hormone systems."

"Your body has that remarkable capacity to heal, and if you give it a chance, it will restore that balance for you."

SHOW RESOURCES

The Essential Thyroid Testing Checklist (free guide):

Thyroid Health: Hashimoto's & Hypothyroidism Nutrition & Recovery Facebook Support Group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/hashimotosnutritionandhealth/

Website: www.helenmallaburn.com

Email: helen@helenmallaburn.com

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

The Menopause Industry The Real Deal — From Taboo to Multi-Billion Pound Industry with Naomi Darom

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100

In this episode, I step outside the clinic and into the heart of our culture to explore how menopause has transformed from a silent life stage into a multi-billion pound industry. I’m joined by the brilliant Naomi Darom, a journalist and sociologist who began asking the tough questions after her own experience with perimenopause: Why are so many of us under-diagnosed? Why does the market rush in with glossy, expensive solutions just as healthcare gaps become visible?

Together, we peel back the layers of menopause branding, celebrity-backed products, and the history of how we’ve been treated

Naomi Reveals:

The Truth About The Menopause Industrial Complex: As clinical care for menopause often falls short, a lucrative market of supplements, smart rings, and celebrity-branded creams has rushed in to fill the void
The History of Dismissal: Historically, menopause treatments were often marketed to husbands rather than women, with the promise that a feminine and pliant wife would be restored
The Power of the Menopause Club: The rise of open conversation among women and celebrities has been instrumental in breaking the taboo, allowing women to validate each other's experiences and share reliable information.
Why We Should Be Advocating for Systemic Change: The true solution lies not in expensive products, but in systemic shifts: more research funding for women's health

BEST MOMENTS

"We don't get a menopause talk the way we get a puberty talk... no one prepares you for it."

"Nature abhors a vacuum, so the market gets into it... it’s a pink tax. It's the same as any other product that's marketed for women; we're going to pay more just because it's marketed for us."

"Are you empowering us by getting us to spend more money? I don't find that very empowering, actually."

"If you are lucky enough to reach a certain age and you have ovaries, you're going to probably go through menopause. This is just a natural part of aging."

SHOW RESOURCES

Naomi Darom - https://naomidarom.substack.com/

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

HRT Facts for Menopause: What Women Are Often Not Told

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100

This time I’m diving deep into the often-confusing world of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) to clear up the misinformation that keeps so many of us from feeling our best.

I’m sharing four critical facts about HRT that are rarely discussed, from how your daily habits like swimming or saunas can impact your patches, to the truth about medical deal-breakers like migraines or high BMI. Together we’ll shift the narrative from fear to empowerment, showing you that menopause isn’t a temporary phase to get through, but a time where you deserve a high quality of life and evidence-based care.

Whether you’ve been told HRT isn’t right for you, or you’re worried about fixed time limits on your treatment, I’m here to give you the clarity and hope you need to advocate for your health and reclaim your vibrancy.

Michelle Reveals

How your daily routine, particularly activities involving high heat or prolonged water exposure like swimming, hot tubs, and saunas, can affect how well HRT patches adhere and how quickly the hormones are absorbed into your system.
Why many common health conditions, such as migraines, high blood pressure, or diabetes, do not automatically rule out HRT
Why there is no fixed time limit for how long a woman can stay on HRT; since the body does not restart hormone production on its own, treatment can be continued as long as the benefits outweigh the risks.
How Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause affects roughly half of post-menopausal women, and local oestrogen can reduce symptoms like bladder urgency and vaginal discomfort by 60%

BEST MOMENTS

"Menopause isn't temporary. Once we are menopausal, our ovaries don't suddenly restart hormone production a few years later."

"Having certain medical conditions does not automatically rule HRT out. It's about looking at each woman individually, weighing up whether the benefits outweigh the risks, and making informed decisions."

"Local vaginal oestrogen can reduce genitourinary symptoms by around 60%. 60%! That is huge."

"Menopause care is not one size fits all. It's about understanding what's happening in your body”

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://www.hypocore.co.uk

Understanding Pelvic Health through Menopause with Francoise De Smet

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100

I sit down with women's health practitioner Francoise De Smet to pull back the curtain on a topic far too many of us have been taught to suffer through in silence: pelvic floor dysfunction.

For years, women have been told that leaks and heaviness are just part of aging, but Francoise is here to flip that narrative on its head. We dive deep into the crucial distinction between a weak and a hypertonic pelvic floor, explaining why traditional kegels might actually be making your symptoms worse. By learning to manage internal pressure through lateral breathing and posture, you’ll learn to reconnect with your core and reclaim a sense of strength and function that you might have thought was gone for good.

Francoise Reveals

Why many pelvic issues, like leaking when sneezing or coughing, are actually caused by a hypertonic or overactive pelvic floor
How hypopressives use lateral breathing and specific postures to manage internal pressure, lifting and restoring the entire core
Why internal pressure management is key. When the diaphragm and abdominal walls are tight or dysfunctional, every cough or jump sends pressure downward, forcing the pelvic floor to compensate or fail.
Who symptoms like lower back pain, a persistent urge to find a bathroom, or even post-void leaking are often dismissed but can be early indicators of pelvic floor dysfunction or prolapse.

BEST MOMENTS

"Go and get stronger! It’s a total pressure on women that we've got to be able to handle it all."

"Your pelvic floor is sending you signals that your entirety and your nervous system isn't coping. And that is a good opportunity for you to give yourself a little break."

“That softness, that pause, and that gentleness is going to be so incredibly impactful."

“Collectively there is something wrong, and that is the misinformation that we have. By raising awareness, we can fix it for all of us."

EPISODE LINKS

Demonstration from episode video https://youtu.be/B_wzsYUB_HM

https://www.instagram.com/speakingfrank

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

http://hairtherapyuk.com/

Menopause Hair Loss and Scalp Changes: Rebuilding Confidence with Trichologist Kate Holohan

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100

I talk with award-winning trichologist Kate Holohan to discuss a topic that catches so many of us off guard: the dramatic ways menopause can transform our hair and scalp.

As a hair and scalp specialist with over two decades of experience, Kate is an expert in navigating the confusing world of shedding, thinning, and texture changes that often accompany hormonal shifts.

From spotting early warning signs like Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia to understanding why go-to products might suddenly be failing, this conversation will shift your perspective from frustration to proactive care, and leave you equipped with the clinical knowledge you need to advocate for your hair health, whether that’s at the pharmacy, the salon, or the doctor's office

Kate Reveals

How trichologists bridge the gap between cosmetic care and medical diagnosis.
Why menopause triggers hair changes, and removes a protective element, allowing testosterone to convert more easily into DHT, which can lead to genetic thinning.
Why permanent scarring conditions like Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia (FFA) early diagnosis is vital
Why significant shedding is often a low-level marker or a physical warning from your body that something is out of balance

BEST MOMENTS

"Your hair is a barometer of your overall health."

"It’s not vanity to want to nurture and look after your hair... if it’s bothering you, then it is a problem."

"We need to get rid of this 'oh it’s just getting old, it’s just this, it’s just that'. Don't accept it."

"The earlier you get help, the better your prognosis will be."

EPISODE LINKS

Website

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/hairtherapyuk/

Podcast

https://www.buzzsprout.com/1640149

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

contact@flourishcourses.co.uk

Navigating the Emotional Rollercoaster of Menopause with Sarah Turner

Wed, 25 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0100

I sit down with psychotherapist and emotion regulation specialist Sarah Turner to discuss the profound and often overlooked psychological shifts that occur during midlife. I share my own experiences with the emotional load of aging parents, career pressure, and changing family dynamics, while Sarah offers a hopeful perspective: that menopause is not a crisis to be feared, but a powerful catalyst for self-discovery.

We explore why women often feel a dip in confidence or a rise in unjustified guilt, and I learn about the practical, empowering tools of Dialectical Behaviour Therapy that can help us move from feeling overwhelmed to feeling grounded and self-full.

Sarah Reveals

Why midlife women frequently experience a combination of overwhelm, identity shifts, loss of confidence, difficulty with self-prioritisation, struggles with assertion, and a desire for deeper connection.
Why rather than viewing this stage as a falling apart, it can be embraced as a transitional invitation to review one's life and finally prioritise personal ambitions and dreams.
How Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) is particularly effective for menopause because it balances self-acceptance with the motivation to change, helping women regulate intense emotions.
Why when emotions run high, acting opposite to the behavioural urge such as engaging in intense physical exercise to burn off cortisol can be more effective than trying to jump straight into calm meditation.

BEST MOMENTS

"Midlife is not a crisis. It is a catalyst. A chance to rediscover who you are and build a life that finally includes you."

"I love the word 'self-full' better. It’s not selfish to look after ourselves... you can’t give from an empty cup."

"We expect ourselves to be superwomen and we're not. We’re just human beings."

"The emotional rollercoaster of midlife is not a sign that you’re falling apart, but a sign that you are evolving."

EPISODE LINKS

www.flourishcourses.co.uk

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

linkedin.com/in/sat-the-menopauseman-sagoo

Navigating Midlife Menopause Transitions Together - The Male Perspective with Satwinder Sagoo

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0100

In this episode, I talk to my guest, Satwinder Sagoo about the often-overlooked intersection of menopause and the male experience. After witnessing the collapse of a loving relationship due to the misunderstood symptoms of perimenopause, he realised that we cannot navigate these hormonal shifts in isolation.

Satwinder dedicated himself to becoming a certified menopause champion and an advocate for understanding andropause, or "male menopause," to help couples find their way back to one another, and in this very special episode, he’s here to talk about his experiences from the male perspective.

Satwinder Reveals

How a lack of knowledge regarding perimenopause can lead to sudden relationship breakdowns and feelings of isolation for both partners.
Why men experience their own hormonal shifts, including night sweats, mood swings, and low testosterone, that mirror the perimenopausal journey.
Why breaking the macho stigma and speaking openly about physical and emotional changes is the key to maintaining a thriving relationship.
How viewing midlife as a human transition rather than a gendered battle allows couples to support each other through shared symptoms and experiences.

BEST MOMENTS

"What if menopause is not just something women go through, but something couples go through together?"

"Don’t see vulnerability as a weakness, but a strength... you’re taking more accountability for yourself, but also your relationship."

"Men and women are human beings, so try to see it from a perspective of it’s a human midlife common transition."

EPISODE LINKS

https://youtu.be/eAS4WGXkMo8?si=mqu1AjB7fFhDqDJz

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://bit.ly/SparkReboot

Reclaiming Your Vitality Through Perimenopause and Beyond - with Dori Martin

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0100

I sit down with Dori Martin, a functional health practitioner who has turned her own experience with severe burnout and caregiving into a mission to help women navigate the complexities of midlife.

If you've been feeling depleted, overwhelmed, or stuck, Dori’s approach will offer you a profound sense of hope, as we dive deep into the real drivers behind the symptoms of perimenopause. We explore everything from stress chemistry and mineral status to metabolism and nervous system health, moving beyond generic advice, and empowering you to rebuild your energy, resilience, and confidence from the inside out

Dori Reveals

Why true healing begins when we prioritise the health of our nervous system, and why being in a constant state of "fight or flight" prevents the body from effectively absorbing nutrients and managing hormones.
How our mineral balance acts as the "spark plugs" for our cellular energy, and how replenishing these can drastically shift how we feel daily.
The benefits of functional lab testing, such as Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis, and how it can provide a blueprint of what is actually happening in the body rather than relying on trial and error.
Why we should reframe self-care not as a luxury but as a biological necessity.

BEST MOMENTS

"What if perimenopause is not the start of decline, but the moment your body finally demands a deeper way of living?"

"We are so nutritionally and minerally depleted that we can’t create the energy to do what we need to do."

"You are not what you eat, but what you can absorb."

"It's not just about putting the stuff in; it's about how we receive it."

EPISODE LINKS

Dori Martin - www.dorimartin.com

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

One Year of Menopause: The Real Deal. The Biggest Myths, Facts, and Breakthroughs From the First Year

Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0100

In this special anniversary episode, I’m taking a moment to pause and reflect on the incredible journey we’ve shared over the past twelve months. From my first conversation to now, my mission has remained the same: to provide clear, honest information about perimenopause and menopause so that no woman feels she is imagining her symptoms or walking this path alone.

In this very special edition I’ve revisited some of the most powerful lightbulb moments from my guests this year, and the insights that connect the dots between our hormones, immune systems, and emotional well-being.

Whether you are just starting your journey or are well through it, I hope this retrospective reminds you that knowledge is your greatest power and that a supportive community is always right here waiting for you.

You’ll Hear

How fluctuations in oestrogen during perimenopause can up-regulate the immune system, leading to chronic inflammation, brain fog, and a fight or flight state.
A clinical breakdown of how sex hormones, thyroid, stress hormones, and insulin are all interlinked
Personal accounts of how menopause can impact career and family life, even when a woman appears fine on the outside while struggling with exhaustion and cognitive confusion.
An exploration of how the body stores tension and trauma in the pelvic space and how reconnecting with our bodies through self-compassion can alleviate midlife anxiety.

BEST MOMENTS

"My immune system was very much on the brink of being over-reactive... it just took one little drop in the ocean, which was COVID... and it was like fireworks went off."

"Inside, it was not me at all... I’m a worker, I've always been a worker, and although I looked okay from the outside, inside, it was not me at all."

"75% of women feel symptoms of menopause. 25%—that's one in four—have really severe symptoms. And there's no amount of acrobatic learning that is going to improve that... the root cause is that your hormones have been whipped away."

"I think midlife and menopause is a key stage... because our bodies are going through such significant changes... this is just a further invitation to reinforce that positive language."

EPISODE LINKS

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Turning the Tipping Point: Brenda Winkle On Redefining Your Path Through Menopause

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0100

I sit down with leadership guide, Brenda Winkle to discuss the moment when she reached a tipping point that could no longer be ignored, a medical crisis that finally forced her to listen to her body after years of being dismissed by the medical community.

We explore how perimenopause and menopause can feel like the moment the mask finally slips, revealing a deep urge for high-functioning, empathic women to stop shrinking and instead start building meaningful impact and community.

Brenda shares how this stage of life doesn't have to be something you simply push through. It can be a powerful turning point where you learn to trust your intuition, manage nervous system overload, and reclaim your energy. Whether you are navigating a late ADHD diagnosis or feeling exhausted by the weight of lifelong caretaking, this conversation offers a roadmap to honouring your own needs and celebrating the fierce, unapologetic woman inside.

Brenda Reveals

How perimenopause often acts as a "loudspeaker" for ADHD or ADHD-type traits
Why this stage of life frequently triggers a deep urge for high-functioning, empathic women to stop people-pleasing or "shrinking" and instead focus on creating meaningful impact.
Why women often experience a "tipping point" where symptoms can no longer be ignored
How these symptoms are frequently mislabeled by medical professionals as mere "stress" or "anxiety".
How the body carries a "somatic load" of accumulated stress and suppressed emotions that must be discharged

BEST MOMENTS

"Perimenopause can feel like the moment the mask finally slips."

"Your intuition will never lead you astray. A lot of us just have been taught we can't trust it."

"If we are pouring from empty cups, we are pouring from resentment, overwhelm, depletion, and fatigue."

"Healing is not linear, it is not a box that we can check off... it’s like I have integrated my experience and I know that as I continue to evolve, this may come back up again."

GUEST LINKS

brenda@brendawinkle.com

WEBSITE: https://www.brendawinkle.com/

INSTAGRAM: http://instagram.com/brendawinkle/

FACEBOOK: http://facebook.com/brenda.winkle.empowerment

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendawinkle/

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

www.menopausevitamincompany.co.uk

The Middle-Life Chrysalis: Finding Freedom Beyond Menopause

Wed, 21 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0100

We’ve been taught to view the arrival of menopause as a slow fade into the background, but what if it’s actually the moment you finally take centre stage?

In this powerful conversation, Mel Dickinson sits down with Michelle to dismantle the myths that have left millions of women feeling invisible and powerless. This isn’t just a medical breakdown of hormones; it’s a roadmap for anyone who has ever felt like their body was becoming a stranger and wondered, "Is this just how it’s going to be?".

Focusing on hope and radical relatability, they reveal that while hormone decline is inevitable, suffering is not. From the surprising science of "belly fat" to the psychological liberation that comes when reproductive expectations are off the table, you’ll discover that you aren't "losing it" you’re evolving.

Mel Reveals

Why you are likely to spend a full third of your life in a post-menopausal state
How menopause isn't just hot flashes; it can manifest as "frozen shoulder," ear ringing, body odour, and joint pain
Why female ovaries age at twice the rate of the rest of the body, meaning our endocrine systems are often in decline while our careers and personal lives are still in high gear.
Why there is a profound lack of funding and training which is why you must be your own best health advocate.
How “Belly fat" in menopause is often a biological response to oestrogen loss, and standard "diet and exercise" advice often fails because the body's internal chemistry has fundamentally changed.

BEST MOMENTS

"Menopause and oestrogen decline is inevitable... but suffering through it and having to just put up with it or dismissing it as a sign of aging is not."

"After reproductive options are taken off the table, it's almost like medicine leaves us behind."

"I want to be an 80-year-old climbing that mountain, kicking ass, having a career, healthy. If I don’t implement changes today, I’m not going to be able to reach that goal."

"One of the reasons why so many of you feel so powerless about your hormones is because your doctor is probably not informed about this topic either."

GUEST LINKS

Email

melissa.dickinson@menopausevitamincompany.co.uk

Name

Mel Dickinson

Business Name

The Menopause Vitamin Company & Menopause Support Suffolk

Websites

www.menopausesupportsuffolk.co.uk

Socials

Instagram: @menopausevitamincoFacebook: @menopausevitamincoPinterest: @menopausevitamincoLinkedIn: Melissa Neisler Dickinson Menopause Vitamin Company

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Why You Feel “Normal” on Paper but Exhausted in Real Life During Perimenopause with Angeles Grover

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 12:01:00 +0100

Many women enter perimenopause feeling unlike themselves long before they ever connect it to hormones. Blood tests come back “normal”, reassurance is given, yet the fatigue, anxiety, weight changes and sleep disruption continue.

In this episode of Menopause – The Real Deal, Michelle Rowlinson is joined by integrative women’s health practitioner Angeles Grover to explore why so many women feel dismissed and what may be happening beneath the surface.

With a background in the pharmaceutical industry and integrative health, Angeles explains why symptom management alone often falls short, and why factors such as stress physiology, digestion, mineral balance and everyday environmental exposures can quietly influence how women feel in midlife.

Rather than offering quick fixes, this conversation encourages curiosity, asking better questions, and understanding the body as a connected system, especially during perimenopause and menopause.

This episode is for you if you feel like you are doing “all the right things” but still feel off, and you want to understand why.

Angeles Shares Insights On

Why reassurance and “normal” results do not always match lived symptoms

How stress patterns and energy regulation can change in midlife

The connection between digestion, hormones and how the body copes with change

Why modern lifestyles may place extra load on the female body during perimenopause

Where many women unknowingly add more pressure instead of support

BEST MOMENTS

“Just because something is within range does not mean it is working optimally for that woman.”

“We are not made of chemicals, we are made of food, minerals and information.”

“Most women are not broken, they are just running on empty.”

“Sleep is often the first place the body asks for help, long before anything shows up on a test.”

GUEST LINKS

Website : www.angelesgrover.com

Free clarity call link :

Hormone health:https://l.bttr.to/muif6

Gut health : https://l.bttr.to/WfMmy

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Holding Up The Menopause Mirror: Reflecting on Identity, Career, and the Path to Self-Discovery

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0100

Michelle sits down with executive coach Jo Ibbott to peel back the layers of the menopause experience that often remain hidden behind closed office doors. For many women, the physical symptoms are only half the battle; the true challenge lies in the quiet erosion of confidence and the sudden, disorienting shift in professional identity.

Jo shares her personal "aha" moment and explains how the "brain fog" of menopause is more than just forgetfulness, it is a psychological hurdle that can lead even the most successful leaders to question their worth. By moving away from a culture of silent apologies and "masking" symptoms, women can reclaim their power through community and informed advocacy. Michelle and Jo share practical advice for workplace communication and the reminder that prioritising your own "oxygen mask" isn't just an act of self-care, it’s a vital strategy for thriving in your next chapter.

Jo Reveals

How even highly successful women often fail to connect their workplace struggles to menopause, leading to unnecessary self-doubt and the urge to resign.
How menopause affects approximately 300 systems in the body, meaning psychological symptoms like anxiety and loss of focus are as medically valid as hot flashes.
Why creating "safe spaces" at work like simple posters or open dialogues, can stop women from feeling like they need to apologise for their biology.
Why taking time to pause and invest in your own health is a survival strategy that allows you to continue caring for others and performing at your peak.

BEST MOMENTS

"It’s not you, it’s perimenopause... You’re not getting less capable; it’s just that our energy levels can dip by around 30 percent."

"I thought I had onset dementia... I’d burst out crying for stupid reasons. We don’t think about things like that being linked to our hormones."

"Putting the oxygen mask on yourself first... it’s not selfish to do that; it’s actually survival."

"I want women to stop apologising for what they’re going through. This is real, it’s medical, and it’s nothing to be ashamed of."

GUEST LINKS

Website: https://courage-coaching.co.uk/

Facebook group: What the Fog? https://www.facebook.com/groups/740710540001100/

Email: jo@courage-coaching.co.uk

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

The Big Root Cause Reset: How To Identify the Missing Links Driving Your Menopause Symptoms

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Kate Driver is a naturopath specialising in perimenopause and menopause, who combines functional testing, personalised nutrition, and herbal medicine to get to the root of the symptoms so many women face.

If you’ve ever felt like a failure after doing all you could to feel less exhausted and foggy, then hope is at hand! Kate is here this time to share 25 years of her invaluable experience in shining a light on the crucial missing links many women are desperate to identify.

You'll learn about the signs of adrenal fatigue, how prolonged stress and environmental factors quietly throw your body out of balance, and the powerful, yet often overlooked, gut-hormone connection. You’ll soon be armed with real, lasting insights into how to move through midlife with clarity and confidence, and a practical set of steps to go from surviving to thriving.

Kate Discusses

How the adrenal and thyroid glands work together to regulate stress and metabolism, so when one is out of balance, the others will be affected
Everyday environmental factors, including electromagnetic radiation (EMFs), blue light from devices, chemicals in personal care products, and even water additives like fluoride and chlorine, and how they act as major stressors that increase cortisol and inflammation, putting the body in a constant state of "fight or flight".
Gut health and how it’s crucial for hormone balance. If the gut microbiome is imbalanced, it affects the conversion of thyroid hormones and the metabolism of oestrogen, which can lead to issues like constipation, gut inflammation, and hormone-driven symptoms
How deep breathing, meditation, and grounding can help re-tone the vagus nerve which connects the brainstem to the organs
How insulin resistance is exacerbated by high cortisol and can cause that troubling weight gain around the middle

BEST MOMENTS

"I just think starting with the basics as well... getting out in the morning, getting morning sunlight, getting as much [grounding] or being out in nature as much as possible compared to being inside. That's going to actually help your health the most."

"Your body is giving you these symptoms because it's telling you that you're out of balance, not because perimenopause should be symptomatic. It's actually a recalibration."

"You can't heal and you can't balance your hormones, you can't stay healthy if you're constantly in this sympathetic state or the fight or flight state of stress."

"You've got to trust that your body can actually heal itself. Your body knows how innately to heal itself."

GUEST LINKS

Kate Driver - https://theperimenopausepractitioner.com/about/

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Busting The Four Myths That May Be Hijacking Your Menopause Journey

Wed, 24 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Are you tired of being told "It's just your age" or "You're probably stressed" while your body feels like it's been hijacked? In this episode, Michelle drops the taboos and tackles four common myths that mislead women and even health professionals about perimenopause and menopause.

Discover the scientific truth about when the hormonal transition can truly begin (spoiler: it's often earlier than you think), and why a "normal" blood test doesn't mean your symptoms are imaginary. Most critically, she addresses the fear surrounding HRT, clarifying the risks and benefits of modern body-identical treatments.

By the end of this episode, you will have the knowledge to advocate for yourself!

Michelle Reveals

How the hormonal transition is driven by ovarian aging and fluctuating hormones, not a birthday rulebook.
How a single blood test that catches a normal moment in between the storms does not mean your symptoms are dismissed or that "nothing is happening"
Why society has defined menopause by the hot flash stereotype, yet around 30% of women never get them.
How perimenopause can present in countless other ways, including severe anxiety, brain fog, joint pain, mood swings, and gut/skin changes
How the pervasive fear surrounding Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) originates from a badly reported and interpreted 2002 study (the Women's Health Initiative) that used older, synthetic forms on a generally older, higher-risk population
Why all women deserve conversations and informed choice, not shame or scare tactics

BEST MOMENTS

"Imagine being told that when you feel like your entire personality has been hijacked by a deranged hormonal demon."

"Your body doesn't read the textbooks to find out when it should start perimenopause, and it knows what stage of life it is in, even if the healthcare system is still catching up."

"Your blood test isn't living your life. You are."

"The myth that has overstayed its welcome by about two decades... If misinformation was furniture, this one would be the mouldy armchair we should have thrown out years ago."

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Jami Shapiro - https://www.jamishapiro.me

Asking The Big Question: Is It Personality, or ADHD & Menopause?

Wed, 17 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Welcome to an enlightening episode where we challenge a lifetime of self-doubt, while giving you two podcasts for the price of one.

Michelle and her guest, Jami Shapiro, the founder of Silver Linings Transitions, author of This Explains So Much, and host of the Grandma Has ADHD podcast engage in a unique and revealing conversation for both podcasts, about how a whole generation of women have been missed or misdiagnosed because ADHD symptoms in girls and women present differently than in hyperactive boys, often leading to internal struggles and burnout rather than visible behavioural issues.

Jami's journey of discovery in midlife, prompted by her child's diagnosis, has sparked a massive "lightbulb moment" for thousands of women finally connecting the dots between their struggles and ADHD, especially as they navigate perimenopause and menopause. This episode offers powerful validation for anyone who has felt foggy, forgetful, emotional, or drained, or who has spent their entire life masking their true self just to cope. Listen to a conversation full of honesty, expert insights, and the deep, shared relief of finally understanding what’s really been going on.

Jami Reveals

How many women are only now discovering their ADHD because their symptoms often involved internalising struggles
Why women with ADHD are more likely to experience severe PMS or PMDD (Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder)
Why hormonal shifts during perimenopause and menopause can intensify existing ADHD symptoms, making them more noticeable
How the lack of recognition for female ADHD is tied to historical societal pressures for women to "hold it together."
Why this legacy links back to figures who were often institutionalised or even persecuted for behaviours now associated with midlife hormonal changes and neurodiversity
How finding out about ADHD later in life can bring a period of grief, but also immense relief and acceptance.

BEST MOMENTS

"The reason you felt scattered, sensitive, or like you're just too much your whole life wasn't personality, but undiagnosed ADHD made worse by hormonal shifts."

"You have been cobbling it together your entire life. Like, you didn't even know that you were building accommodations for yourself."

"There's a forgiveness that comes, a gentleness that comes with yourself. That grace."

"Don't try and get that person who you were before. You're evolving. You want to literally look forward and say, 'Right, who am I now?'"

GUEST LINKS

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://bio.site/fantasticfutures

How to Stop Running on Empty and Reclaim Your Energy in Midlife - with Philippa Scott

Wed, 10 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In this deeply compassionate no-nonsense episode, Michelle speaks with Philippa Scott, a therapist who knows exactly what it's like to be a high-performer quietly burning out behind the scenes. Philippa shares her personal journey through two major burnouts, the intense struggle of navigating parenthood and perimenopause, and why traditional self-care and mindset tools simply didn't work for her.

They explore the mind-body connection, why your old trauma might be sabotaging your energy today, and how to finally break free by teaching your unconscious brain that you are safe now. Get ready to learn how to reclaim your energy, rewrite your story, and step into the powerful woman you were always meant to be

Philippa Discusses

The signs of burnout women often miss, including brain fog, decision fatigue, and feeling stuck in destructive thinking patterns that blur reality.
How the Richards Trauma Process (TRTP) differs from traditional therapy like hypnosis by using the language of your unconscious
The 'cake analogy': why ignoring the deep inner work is like trying to bake a perfect cake in a dirty kitchen, making everything harder and less effective.
The significant shift from being in 'life creation mode' to 'wisdom giving mode' in midlife
How old trauma patterns related to key transitions like menarche, birth, or relationships can affect how we physically do menopause.
The power of teaching women to prioritise their own health and needs so they can give their best to their family, rather than their 'dregs'.

BEST MOMENTS

"Your system is doing the very best it can to keep you safe. So you are not broken. You're just running old software."

"I was flogging myself for a workplace that did not rely on me the way my kids and my family relied on me."

"We lose clarity in lots of areas of our life, and we feel stuck, or we feel like we can't move forward in any way."

"You are not broken. Your old software and your old programming needs updating, and we need to turn off some of the programs that are running in the background that are causing you to sabotage yourself."

GUEST LINKS

www.fantasticfuture.com.au

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Menopause Is Not the End: Starting Again in Midlife with Ildikó Sealey

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 00:00:00 +0100

What if the masterpiece you're meant to create wasn't in your twenties but in your second act, and it's only just getting started?

This time Michelle speaks with Ildiko Sealey, creator of the podcast New Business in Later Life and The Routine Club. Ildiko is proof that reinvention doesn't come with a deadline, detailing her journey from art school and social housing to studying textiles and training as an adult educator. Along the way, she began to understand her own neurodivergence. Now, she mentors entrepreneurs to prioritise their health and mindset so they can sustain what they're building. We talk about starting over in midlife, the unexpected side of menopause, identity shifts, confidence crashes, and how to rebuild when life hands you a blank canvas.

Ildiko Discusses

How she came to London, worked in social housing for 14 years, and then returned to university at age 38 to pursue textiles, gaining confidence and life experience that shaped her current path.
How the severe brain fog was by far the hardest symptom to cope with, making thinking difficult on a minute-by-minute basis for over a year.
HRT side effects like breast tenderness, 6 kg of weight gain, and the return of pre-menstrual emotional symptoms which led her to stop, opting instead for Evening Primrose Oil which helps manage emotional imbalance.
Her pivot to business coaching, driven by the realisation that her own strength was her morning routine
How her podcast was inspired by being asked how it felt to be 50 and realising that if she didn't pursue her dreams now, when would she?

BEST MOMENTS

"It was literally like with 20 years life experience, it was like going back to being like 18. It was absolutely fabulous."

"Brain fog. For me, that was by far the hardest thing to cope with... I would literally take a breath to say something, and by the time I finished taking a breath, I would forget what I was going to say."

"I do fully embrace that my business will only ever be as healthy as I am."

"You need to be determined to do it. Then you take the action, then you get the result, and that gives you that, 'Wow, I've done it!' and then you go again."

GUEST LINKS

Ildiko Sealey - https://www.encorepreneurs.club/

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://www.facebook.com/groups/naturalpainreliefsolutiongroup https://www.facebook.com/DrBrad/ https://www.instagram.com/drbshepherd/

Hormones, Pain Management & Finding Balance During Menopause with Dr. Bradley Shepherd

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Welcome back to the podcast where we get real about midlife health and help you stop surviving and start thriving. This time, Michelle dives into a topic so many women deal with in silence: chronic, dragging, frustrating pain.

Her guest is Dr. Bradley Shepherd, a chiropractor and functional medicine practitioner who specialises in helping women in their 40s and 50s reduce chronic pain by addressing the root causes of hormone and nutrient imbalances through Nutritional Endocrine Modulation.

Dr. Shepherd, who grew up surrounded by women and their health struggles, explains how hormones and nutrition hold the key to reclaiming energy, improving sleep, and clearing brain fog. If you're tired of being told your pain is just part of getting older, this episode is a must-listen

Dr Shepherd Discusses

Why he focused on women in their 40s and 50s who are often dismissed by healthcare professionals, especially when their hormones start to shift toward menopause.
How hormonal imbalances can manifest as physical pain; low oestrogen can lead to increased joint and spine disc degeneration, and low testosterone can cause fatigue, muscle aches, and loss of strength.
How this approach tests hormone and nutrient levels to correct imbalances using concentrated food-based supplements rather than just isolated vitamins
Why pain, mood issues (depression/anxiety), and gut inflammation are deeply interconnected and influence each other through shared neurotransmitters, creating a cycle where one imbalance affects the entire body.
Common yet often missed issues like low DHEA (needed to make testosterone and oestrogen), and insulin resistance (common in perimenopause)

BEST MOMENTS

"I've noticed that that population tends to be dismissed by a lot of healthcare professionals... I think there's a great need, and they tend to be dismissed by a lot of the medical profession."

"Why don't we make sure that the nutrients that make oestrogen and help regulate oestrogen, why don't we make sure that those nutrients are in place first?"

"I don't think you can influence one neurotransmitter, say in the brain, without influencing what's going on in the gut with gut inflammation and vice versa."

"Listen to your body, listen to what it's saying, try to figure out what it's telling you, because sometimes a migraine headache can be say, 'Okay, something's out of balance,' and it can be as simple as that."

TO CONNECT WITH BRADLEY

Email: drbshepherd@shepherdfunctionalhealth.com

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Alexia Murray On TikTok, Menopause Humour & How To Turn Discomfort Into Laughter

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0100

What happens when a confident, creative powerhouse suddenly finds her motivation, identity, and career confidence dipped in fog? This time, Michelle goes international with guest Alexia Murray, an actress, writer, and creative force who thought she was ready for perimenopause, but was shocked by its impact.

Alexia shares the story of her five months of depression and total loss of confidence, and how she turned her pain into viral power by launching a hilarious character on TikTok that’s opening up conversations and making thousands of women feel seen and laugh through the madness

Alexia Discusses

The preconceived idea that her transition would be easy because she had always considered herself strong
The five months of darkness, sleepless nights, and total loss of confidence in her identity and career
The key turning point - a speech about getting knocked down and getting back up, which served as the spark she needed to stop waiting for external validation and create her own content.
How exercise provided a huge boost in endorphins and helped her get out of her depression.
Her funny, authentic TikTok character and how it became a way to find the "funny bit" in her own struggles, which in turn led to a community of support for thousands of women.

BEST MOMENTS

"I felt like a failure, a complete failure, a failure in my job, a failure as a mother, a failure... it was just like, all of the all of the hard work and struggle... it was all suddenly drained."

"I was just very vulnerable right then I think, and at the end of that workshop I thought, what, what am I doing? Like this, I just felt so tired and so hopeless... that was the moment when it just completely hit me."

"Success is about how many times you get knocked down and how many times you get up. Because if you get knocked down and you stay down, then that's the end of the game, right?"

“The endorphins are amazing, and they also helped me, I think... one thing leads to another, so you get the endorphins going and your day looks better."

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Real Deal Answers About The Menopause Questions You're Too Afraid To Ask

Wed, 12 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In this week’s show, we’re dedicated to cutting through the myths and the fluff to share the facts and information all women need to hear.

Starting perimenopause can feel chaotic, leaving you second-guessing every reaction, memory, and physical change. Michelle addresses the common experience of being dismissed by a GP, being told you are too young, that it is just stress, or that "it's all in your head". Listen as she tackles six of the most common, real-life, "no BS" questions that women whisper to their friends but feel too awkward or exhausted to ask out loud.

Michelle Answers

Is it normal to suddenly hate everyone and then cry over something ridiculous five minutes later?
Why do I feel like I've got a hangover when I haven't even had a drink?
Why does everything hurt now?
Why do I feel like my brain is on a five-second delay?
Why am I gaining weight when I haven't changed anything?
Why do I still feel awful even though I've tried everything?

BEST MOMENTS

Starting perimenopause can feel like you've been dropped into the middle of a chaotic party and no one told you the dress code, the rules, or even why you're there."

"You might have been told by your GP that you're too young, that it's just stress, or worse, that it's all in your head."

"You're not losing it. You're overloaded and under-supported. And that's a fixable problem."

"You're not broken. You're just working with a body that's doing what it thinks it needs to do to survive. And with the right support, you can shift it."

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

From Hysterectomy to Empowerment: Our Remedy's Rachel's On Turning Pain Into Power

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Have you ever noticed how some of the biggest life changes end up leading to something far bigger than yourself?

This week, Michelle is joined by Rachel from Our Remedy, who after co-founding a healthy cafe, suddenly found herself facing serious health challenges that threatened to change everything.

After failing to find the support she needed, Rachel began to share her story with the world, and soon found an audience of likeminded women going through the same thing. In this episode, she talks about turning her pain into purpose, why women's health still lacks real conversation, and how she built one of the UK's most empowering wellness brands from the ground up.

Rachel Reveals

How experiencing a hysterectomy at a young age can lead to early menopause, often with little information or support available.
Why it’s vital to understand menopause and advocate for oneself in medical settings
How building a community around shared experiences can provide invaluable support for women
Why sharing personal stories can resonate with others and create a sense of belonging.
There is a significant gap in knowledge regarding women's health, particularly menopause.
How many women are unaware of the symptoms and effects of menopause
How nutrition and lifestyle choices play a vital role in managing menopause symptoms

BEST MOMENTS

"I really fought to not have a hysterectomy... I wanted to be healthy and well for my son."

"The biggest gap is speaking to a doctor once and saying like, something's not right."

"I think we are completely entitled in the UK to ask for a second opinion, a third opinion, a fourth opinion."

"I feel like I'm searching for answers to the problems I have."

GUEST LINKS

Instagram: @itsourremedy

Website: ourremedy.co.uk

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Thriving Through Menopause in Midlife: The Power of Hormones, Mindset, and Movement

Wed, 29 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Ever feel like you're doing all the right things in midlife, but your body just isn't responding? This week on Menopause, the Real Deal, Michelle is joined by Karen Darlington, a menopause coach who's been helping women transform their health and confidence for over eight years.

Inspired by her own early menopause journey, Karen combines nutrition, strength training, yoga, and mindfulness to give women practical tools that actually work. She's the founder of Menopausing, a community that empowers women to balance their hormones, feel strong again, and finally see the results they've been working for. Get ready for a powerful, practical conversation about thriving in midlife, not just surviving it.

Karen Reveals

Why anxiety, panic attacks, sleep disturbance, brain fog, and intense rage can often be misdiagnosed
How the body changes, and why the old advice of "eat less, exercise more" no longer works
Why prioritising sufficient protein, fibre, and an anti-inflammatory diet can quickly lead to positive changes in energy, clarity of thought, and better sleep.
Why strength training is essential for supporting muscle mass, metabolism, and bone density
Why mindset trumps all, and how her philosophy is broken down into manageable pieces

BEST MOMENTS

"You went from doing nothing to doing a little bit of something, and the health benefits are huge."

"We have to be willing to be able to change the way that we think, because if we don't, we're going to get the same results that we've always got."

"I honestly felt as if my body was being possessed because it was almost like this different person was coming out..."

"The two actually work very well together because... we need to balance that out with the calmness, with the connection back to self, with the breathwork."

GUEST LINKS

Instagram @talkmenopausewithkaren

TikTok @talkmenopausewithkaren

Website - Karendarlington.com

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://instagram.com/themellanieparry?igshid=jqdfo25h70j2

The Warrior Who Refused To Be Silenced: Mellanie Parry On Empowering Women And Taking Control

Wed, 22 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0100

This week, Michelle talks with Mellanie Parry, a powerhouse who turned personal adversity into leadership. Mellanie's story highlights how she was told she was "too young for perimenopause" by her GP despite chronic symptoms, leading to a breakdown at forty-five before receiving HRT, and which sparked a huge personal reinvention

Mellanie used this as the fuel to create a community of over eighty thousand women by sharing her honest experience with perimenopause and an ADHD diagnosis, eventually taking her mission to the Houses of Parliament.

In this powerful episode, listen as Mellanie talks about the ways in which she empowers women who refuse to be silenced, blending mindset and inner strength.

Mellanie Reveals

How despite multiple issues, her GP dismissed her as "too young for perimenopause" because she lacked hot flushes.
Why the lack of support led to a full mental and physical breakdown.
How demanding and starting HRT provided rapid mental and emotional life-changing relief.
Why hormonal struggles, like fatigue and hunger, are not character flaws, and women shouldn't feel guilt over them.
How she is sharing her story to inspire a community and influence UK Parliament.

BEST MOMENTS

"What if the very symptoms you're told to ignore are actually the ones screaming for change?"

"I begged for help. I was gaslit and told 'Well, you are a bit irritable, aren't you?'"

"I didn't see a way forward... I couldn't think how can I get, how can I feel better... and I'd read other women's stories about HRT had helped them. So I do believe that having this hope was something that I was there, so that lifted me."

"I was so anxious and so low and so just incapable of like mixing and being around people and holding a conversation.' So, it was life-changing within weeks."

GUEST LINKS

https://www.facebook.com/mellanie.slater

http://www.tiktok.com/@themellanieparry

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Theory Meets Practice: A Live Healing Session for Menopause and Beyond

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0100

After introducing his system for reversing illness and shifting emotional patterns in the previous episode, Stephen Leggett returns to the show to put theory into practice with a live healing session on the show.

This unique experience provides an intimate look at how releasing trapped emotions related to self-worth and past trauma can create immediate changes in the body and mind. It explores the connection between our subconscious history, our current emotional state, and how these factors influence physical health, particularly during the hormonal fluctuations of menopause. You’ll hear the direct impact of this powerful healing work, including the moment a sense of lightness and an emotional release occurs.

Stephen Reveals

Why our mind's emotional patterns often drive biological and hormonal responses.
The specific emotional issues, such as forlornness and hopelessness, that surfaced during the session.
How the applied kinesiology (AK) technique is used to communicate directly with the subconscious mind.
The concept of generational trauma and how emotions from ancestors can be unintentionally absorbed and carried forward.
The importance of self-care and hydration in the days immediately following an emotional release session.

BEST MOMENTS

"I always like to work on something that perhaps a client feels more pressing... a physical niggle you've got or a mindset block."

"The wonderful thing about this process is how it reawakens memories that you think you'd never get hold of again."

"Your subconscious has its own way of regulating things... it knows how much you can take."

"There's nothing to recover from... it's an experience rather than a recovering."

GUEST LINKS

Stephen Leggett - https://blinq.me/r9Jsv3C5T1pZwvaKassk

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Unburdening the Mind: Tackling Diabetes, Trauma, and Menopause

Wed, 08 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Stephen Leggett joins Michelle to discuss his journey from living with type 2 diabetes for 20 years to successfully reversing it, not once, but twice.

He shares the deeply personal moment that sparked his permanent healing journey and introduces his unique system designed to help people reverse illness and break free from cycles of medication and destructive habits. He also reveals how deeply ingrained thought patterns and past emotional "baggage" can influence physical health, especially for women navigating the hormonal shifts of perimenopause and menopause

Stephen Discusses

The life-changing moment that motivated him to permanently reverse his type 2 diabetes.
How diet, exercise, and lifestyle changes were part of his initial reversal attempts.
His "Diabetes Destroyer and Wellness Codebreaker" system, which starts with a deep dive into understanding how a client's condition arose and what they've been doing about it.
The importance of addressing root-cause emotional patterns and past trauma that the subconscious mind stores.
The concept of trapped emotions, how they can manifest as physical symptoms (including those experienced in menopause), and the power of releasing them to restore choice and control over one's health.

BEST MOMENTS

"Your medication is like a crutch. You do not remember life without it."

"If you try and throw too much change at yourself... your subconscious is saying, 'This is not a safe place, I don't want to be here.'"

"The first and most important feedback I get from clients after I work with them is, 'Oh, Stephen, I feel so much lighter.' Because they've been unburdened."

GUEST LINKS

Stephen Leggett - https://blinq.me/r9Jsv3C5T1pZwvaKassk

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://www.instagram.com/thatmenopauseguy

Ali Farhat On How Menopause Misdiagnosis Can Alter Life's Pathways

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 00:00:00 +0100

This time, Michelle sits down with certified women’s hormone practitioner and weight loss coach, Ali Farhat—known online as "That Menopause Guy."

Ali shares his deeply personal journey, revealing how his mother’s struggles with menopause and the medical system’s dismissal of her symptoms ignited a fire in him to change how women experience this stage of life. He also examines the common mistakes women make when trying to lose weight in perimenopause and menopause

Ali Discusses

How his mother's misdiagnosis with depression and sleep apnea sparked his mission to help women in menopause.
Why traditional "eat less, exercise more" advice fails in menopause, and the science behind the hormonal shifts that cause stubborn weight gain.
The lack of menopause education for doctors and the importance of seeking out trained practitioners who understand women’s health.
The emotional and psychological toll of menopause, including the loss of identity, a feeling of invisibility, and the importance of addressing past trauma.
How women can take back control of their health by educating themselves and learning to advocate for their own needs.

BEST MOMENTS

"You're not crazy. What you're going through is truly real”
“Giving women this validation and hope that there is actually treatment, that they feel seen and heard, that is just everything."
"Menopause isn't just about hormones, it's about identity shift, it's about dignity, and just being treated like a human being who still matters."
"The first thing I would tell women is, it's not you, it's your hormones. Stop blaming yourself. It's not you."

Ali’s Links

https://www.facebook.com/themenopauseguy

https://www.tiktok.com/@themenopauseguy

https://www.linkedin.com/in/thatmenopauseguy/

https://linktr.ee/realalifarhat

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Menopause, Movement and Mood: Why Exercise is Your Secret Weapon

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Menopause can often feel like a confusing and challenging journey, leaving you to wonder why your body seems to have a mind of its own. From unpredictable hot flashes and frustrating brain fog to mood swings and sleepless nights, these symptoms can make you feel like your body is a complete stranger.

But what if there was a simple, accessible set of tools to help you navigate these changes?

In this episode, we're busting myths and revealing why a little movement is your secret weapon, not just for managing symptoms, but for truly reclaiming your well-being, inside and out.

Michelle Discusses

The common, often frustrating, physical and mental symptoms of menopause, from hot flashes and brain fog to emotional changes and poor sleep.
The science behind how declining oestrogen levels affect the body, including a slower metabolism, decreased bone density, and a loss of cardiovascular protection.
The three key pillars of exercise for menopause: cardio for heart health, strength training to protect bones and build muscle, and flexibility/mind-body work for calm and balance.
The importance of pelvic floor exercises to improve bladder control, prevent prolapse, and enhance sexual function.
Practical, simple ways to incorporate movement into a busy life, emphasising that consistency beats intensity and that any movement—from a brisk walk to dancing in the kitchen—counts.

BEST MOMENTS

"The laundry basket is not yet recognised as official gym equipment."

"So here's the sciencey bit, but I promise to keep it simple."

"You know that group of muscles that most of us never thought about until one day we sneezed and, well, you know what happened."

"This isn't about perfection, it's about making friends with your body again."

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Reclaiming Confidence Through, Menopause: Suzi Ford On Transformation

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Have you ever felt like you’ve lost your spark, and weren't quite yourself anymore? That's exactly what Suzi Ford, this week’s guest has faced.

When menopause arrived during the isolation of COVID lockdown, it shook her world in ways she never expected. Fast forward three years, and Suzi has not only found the right support and begun her HRT journey, but she’s also transformed her health, losing six stone and rediscovering her confidence, energy and joy.

Today, she tells you how she achieved it, and talks candidly about the real issues we face in order to help other women feel seen, heard, and supported

Suzi Discusses

The experience of menopause and how it can include a wide range of symptoms such as hot flushes, anxiety, weight gain, and changes in libido
How consulting with a knowledgeable healthcare provider can lead to effective treatments like HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy)
How these treatments can alleviate many menopause symptoms and improve quality of life.
How adopting a healthier diet and incorporating physical activity can help manage menopause symptoms and improve overall well-being
Why setting achievable goals, such as step counts, can provide motivation and a sense of accomplishment.
Why open dialogue with partners about the changes experienced during menopause is essential.
How dialogue should include discussing emotional and physical intimacy, which can be affected by menopause.

BEST MOMENTS

"I went from being always freezing to having these insane, uncontrollable hot flushes... literally burned from my toes, ripped through my body."

"I literally thought I was losing my head."

"You won't get a medal at the end of this because there's not actually an end."

"I always say I'm not a doctor. I can only tell you what's happened to me."

Suzi’s Links

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@sephton2016

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

From Struggle to Strength: How Menopause Jen Transformed Negative Workplace Experience into Empowerment

Wed, 10 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0100

If you’ve ever felt like your workplace was unsupportive when it comes to the menopause, then this episode is for you. This week’s guest is Jen Francis, known on TikTok as Menopause Jen Official, who walked away from her role as a digital marketing manager when a lack of menopause support and outdated attitudes from her employer made it impossible to stay.

Since then, Jen has created a growing community where women share hacks, tips and real-life experiences to support each other through midlife and menopause, proving that there's strength in numbers. We talk about why she left her job, the menopause-related challenges she faced at work, and how she's using her platform to empower others.

Jen Discusses

The lack of understanding and support in the workplace
The feelings of isolation and frustration that can result from this.
How symptoms such as migraines, palpitations, and fatigue can severely affect a woman's ability to perform at work.
The lack of acknowledgment and support from employers and how they can exacerbate health issues, leading to a decline in mental health and job satisfaction
How flexible working options can be crucial for women dealing with menopause symptoms.
The pressing need for menopause policies and education within organisations
How managers may dismiss symptoms or fail to provide necessary support, which can lead to negative workplace experiences for affected employees.
How building communities can empower women to share their experiences and support one another

BEST MOMENTS

"I thought, oh, God, they're not going to be good about it. But they actually were."

"I was surprised, you know, someone in her 40s, I thought she must be in perimenopause.”

"I had to keep pestering doctors to get fit notes."

"I think it's given me a chance to focus on me and decide what I want to do at 52."

"If you support your staff, you're gonna be more productive."

Jen’s Links

TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@menopausejenofficial

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://www.tiktok.com/@doctorsooj

Debunking Menopause Myths: Dr. Sooj's Evidence-Based Approach to Women's Health

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In a world where health myths about menopause can spread faster than the truth, how do you know who to trust?

This week on the show, Michelle is joined by the amazing Dr Sooj, the renowned health content creator whose educational videos have helped to tackle medical misinformation, and make guidance relatable and accessible to everyone through such channels as the NHS, the Department of Health and Social Care, the World Health Organisation and the BBC.

Dr Sooj talks all things menopause care, from understanding the difference between perimenopause and menopause, how it's diagnosed, treatment options including HRT and non-hormonal alternatives, and how to get the most from your GP appointment

Dr Sooj Reveals

The crucial differences between perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause
The vital role GPs play in menopause management, but also how their knowledge can vary.
Why it's essential for patients to have open conversations with their doctors about menopause and to seek referrals if their GP lacks expertise in this area.
How lifestyle choices significantly impact menopause symptoms.
How addressing these factors can help alleviate issues like hot flushes, anxiety, and sleep disturbances.
Why Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can be beneficial for managing menopause symptoms
Why there is still a stigma associated with discussing menopause-related issues, particularly genitourinary symptoms like vaginal dryness and painful sex

BEST MOMENTS

"Misinformation spreads so quickly on social media. I just started making content... to simplify complicated concepts into a series of short videos."

"Menopause just refers to an absence of periods. Perimenopause usually refers to when the symptoms start, but your periods are still happening."

"There should be more training for GPs regarding women's health or menopause in particular, especially as we're half the population?"

"It's about having that conversation with your doctor and being open to them also not being experts in everything."

Dr Sooj's Links

https://www.youtube.com/@doctorsooj

https://www.instagram.com/doctorsooj

HOST BIO

Michelle is a highly respected Physiotherapist and Menopause Wellbeing Practitioner with over two decades of experience in the health and wellness industry. After experiencing seven years of debilitating symptoms herself before realising it was perimenopause, Michelle has since dedicated her career to helping other women navigate this transformative stage of life. Her personal journey fuels her passion for educating and empowering women, as well as training businesses and health professionals through her specialised menopause and wellbeing workshops. A best-selling author and sought-after speaker, Michelle combines deep clinical expertise with relatable, real-world experience. Through her podcast, "Menopause - The Real Deal," she offers evidence-based guidance, authentic conversations, and practical strategies. Listeners trust Michelle for her empathetic understanding and her commitment to helping women thrive, making her a leading voice in the menopause space.

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

When Transgender Transitioning Can Feel Like Menopause: Daviana’s Story

Wed, 27 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In this fascinating conversation, Michelle talks to the incredible Daviana, who shares her personal journey of transitioning from male to female, discussing the challenges and revelations she faced along the way.

From her early awareness of feeling different as a child in the 80s to her experiences in the military and the impact of societal norms on her identity, Daviana provides an insightful perspective on gender dysphoria and the importance of self-acceptance. She also reflects on her supportive ex-wife, the process of coming out to her daughter, and the emotional and physical changes she experienced during hormone therapy

Daviana Discusses

The emotional changes of hormone therapy, including surprising shifts in mood and reactions
How physical changes such as skin sensitivity and body shape mirrored common menopause symptoms
The impact of cravings and comfort-seeking behaviours surprisingly similar to menopause experiences
Why supportive relationships and open communication are so crucial during transition
The challenges of navigating social spaces with confidence and respect

BEST MOMENTS

"I always knew I wanted to dress in women's clothes. I wanted to be women."

"There's not enough oestrogen in the world to bring down the amount of muscle mass and bone density and power that you got going through puberty."

"If you walk into a women's room looking like me with your head down and all nervous... you're gonna make people around you nervous."

"What right do they not have? They can go play sports all they want. They're just going to play in their biological sex."

Daviana's Links

TikTok

Instagram

Facebook

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://www.badmothermedia.com/

Why Menopause Is The Becoming Of A Woman - with Kate Halfpenny and Kym

Wed, 20 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Michelle is joined by the incredible duo of best-selling author Kate Halfpenny and women's health pioneer, Kym, to discuss the often-overlooked experiences of women navigating menopause.

Kate shares her journey of writing her book, "Boogie Wonderland," which candidly explores her personal challenges during midlife, including perimenopause and family dynamics. Kym examines the need for tailored fitness approaches for menopausal women, highlighting the lack of education in the fitness industry regarding this demographic.

Together they focus on the emotional rollercoaster of menopause, the societal perceptions of aging women, and the importance of self-acceptance and authenticity

You'll Hear About

The importance of sharing personal experiences as a way to connect with others
How many women experience menopause symptoms without fully recognising them
The need for better education and awareness about menopause and its effects.
How crucial it is to embrace the changes that come with menopause
Why its vital to accept our bodies and experience
The significant gap in the fitness industry regarding education on how to support menopausal women.
Why personal trainers and fitness instructors need to be better informed about the unique needs of this demographic to provide appropriate guidance and support.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think that readers know if you're only telling them half-truths or if you're making stuff up completely. So that was my goal with the book, just to take that opportunity to be a woman in midlife."

"I loved that my body every month was like a Swiss watch and knew exactly what to do. And that it created and then fed three people."

"It's really important because not all one exercise fits all. Our hormone levels are depleted or elevated. They're all over the place."

"I don't think that we need to fix our bodies. We actually need to just listen to them."

Kate Halfpenny

Kym LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kym-australia-33aaa7301/

EPISODE RESOURCES

www.simonandschuster.com.au/books/Boogie-Wonderland/Kate-Halfpenny/9781923022133

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Menopause and the GP: How To Be Heard, Get Answers And Feel In Control

Wed, 13 Aug 2025 00:00:00 +0100

If you’ve ever walked out of a surgery feeling like you didn’t get answers, this is for you.

In this episode, Michelle shares 6 practical tips to help you approach your GP with confidence, get the most from your appointment, and feel heard.

You'll Discover:

Why many GPs lack training in menopause care
How to prepare before you book so you can maximise your time
Simple ways to guide the conversation towards solutions that work for you

These strategies will help you go in prepared, come out informed, and take charge of your menopause journey.

Listen now to feel more in control and more confident in the support you can ask for.

Best Moments:

“Most of them just haven’t been given the right training.”
“A symptom journal changes that.”
“You’re not being difficult. You’re advocating for yourself.”
“You absolutely deserve to feel heard, supported and taken seriously.”

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://ithrive.zone/35d-new

The Transformative Power of Forgiveness in Menopause with Hanna Kok

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 23:00:00 +0100

In this episode, Michelle interviews Hanna Kok, a coach with over 30 years of experience in body mind spirit connection, who focuses on how forgiveness affects health. Hannah explains her approach to managing menopause symptoms through emotional healing and forgiveness work rather than diet and exercise alone. She shares client success stories and shares forgiveness techniques we can all use. Hanna also challenges listeners to view health from an emotional perspective and be open to new ways of healing.

Hanna Kok Reveals:

• Her energy allocation theory

• How she guides clients to use "mirrors" to identify what needs healing within themselves rather than holding grudges.

• Why we all resist self-forgiveness and its necessity for healing.

• Common misconceptions about what forgiveness actually means

• An emotional stress release technique that activates the prefrontal cortex and prevents self-destructive thought patterns

• Why Western cultural programming creates barriers to healing

• The immediate physical changes that can result from emotional release work

BEST MOMENTS

"We have as women, about 26 trillion listeners. That is, those are all the cells in our bodies being at our own cells, and half of that is also the microbes in our body."

"Holding a grudge is like drinking, trying to kill somebody while drinking the poison yourself."

"That irritating person just was a mirror, just gave you some feedback. Like Michelle... this is what you look like when you're disrespectful of yourself."

"I forgive you for being the perfect mirror. I forgive you for showing me what I need to change within me."

"Within three months of working with me... the bleeding completely stopped... She was off all allergy medication, no more painkillers. She had no pain."

"I'm just loving myself just because, just because I am valuable, just because, not even because I'm alive, not because I'm a child of God... it is just because."

EPISODE RESOURCES

Release and Relax meditation www.hannakok.com

The iThrive app. www.ithrive.zone.

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://www.tiktok.com/@theparentexpress?_t=ZT-8xkINq69UIB&_r=1

How Husbands Can Support Women During Menopause with Jesse Robertson

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 23:00:00 +0100

What happens when a husband publicly asks how to support his wife through menopause and thousands of women flood the comments? Jesse Robertson, a dad and TikTok creator, found out firsthand when one honest post transformed his parenting channel into a platform for menopause education. In this unique episode, Jesse shares his experience from complete ignorance about menopause to becoming an unexpected advocate for women's health. Host Michelle and Jesse swap questions in an open conversation that reveals the reality about medical training gaps, the real impact of hormonal changes and why marriages are failing during perimenopause.

Jesse Reveals:

• The many ways husbands can support their wives during perimenopause

• The enormous menopause education gap in men

• How medical training in perimenopause is shockingly inadequate

• The ways hormones affect everything, not just reproduction

• Why divorce rates spike during menopause years

• The fitness, health and exercise advice that can backfire during menopause

• The severe mental health impact on women during menopause

• How simple communication can transform relationships

BEST MOMENTS

"When Jesse asked women if they wanted their husbands to understand menopause, the response was incredible.”

"How is it that I, as a man and as a husband, and you know, as a father, how do I know nothing about this?"

"We're talking about information that could literally save your marriage."

"It's weird. It's like you've got this voice in the back of your head and while you are sort of full flow of arguing and having a rage... You've literally got this little voice in the back of your head saying you are out of order, but you just can't stop anyway."

"Women have never been prioritised in studies. Testosterone studies on men started in the 1930s... studies on women were paused in the 1970s and didn't get started up again until 1993."

"Just because it's natural doesn't mean that it's gonna be good for you."

EPISODE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Working With Your Hormones Instead of Against Them with Denise Grixti

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 23:00:00 +0100

Fitness expert Denise Grixti joins Michelle in this episode. They discuss why traditional health advice is sabotaging women in perimenopause and what women should be doing instead. Denise also shares her personal journey to becoming a metabolic detective and talks about how you can do the same. This episode will change how you think about your changing body and give you practical knowledge on how to work WITH your hormones instead of against them.

Denise Reveals:

• Why stress management the foundation of hormonal balance

• Why traditional health and fitness advice doesn’t work for women

• How your coffee timing matters

• Where you can expect to see the first signs of hormonal improvements

• How blue light is destroying your sleep

• How to become your own metabolic detective

• Why small steps create lasting change

BEST MOMENTS

"Hormones control whether you're burning sugar or whether you're burning fat. So even from a weight loss perspective, it's not just about weight, you wanna make sure that you're losing the correct weight."

"I love teaching women how to become their own metabolic detective. That way they can navigate their way through their issues and their hormonal imbalances."

"The first place you're gonna see results is in your sleep, your mood, your hunger, your energy, and your cravings. That's the first place it's gonna show up, not on the scale."

"Everything is connected to stress. Everything is connected to stress management, and that is like the under layer of everything."

"Coffee on an empty stomach is gonna trigger a massive cortisol response and going through perimenopause and menopause. As women, we become more reactive to stress."

"Now is the time not to pour from an empty cup. If you fill your cup first, you are gonna have so much more energy, patience, to give with your family."

"This is not a phase that we should look at with such doom and gloom. This is actually a time for empowerment. It's a time to connect to our bodies again."

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://www.dngfitness.com/

https://www.dngfitness.com/peri-menopause-academy-for-busy-women

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://youtube.com/@sisterskeeper825

The ADHD & Perimenopause Connection with Jodie Sturges

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 23:00:00 +0100

Join Michelle as she speaks to Jodie Sturges, a qualified therapist and content creator who juggles life as a mum of six while navigating her own recent ADHD diagnosis and perimenopause journey. Diagnosed with ADHD at 43, just as her hormones began changing, Jodie shares the connection between perimenopause and neurodiversity that most women don't know about. Jodie and Michelle share advice and personal experiences that could change how you understand your own brain and body.

Visit http://bit.ly/BioIDhormones and use the discount code Michelle40 to receive 40% off your consultation fee PLUS £50 off your first order.

Jodie Reveals:

• Why hormonal changes in perimenopause can intensify ADHD symptoms

• Why many women receive their first ADHD diagnosis in their 40s

• How traditional therapy training doesn't prepare therapists to work with neurodiverse clients

• What is bioidentical hormone therapy and why it can be life changing for women with ADHD

• The differences in diagnosis and symptoms between ADHD girls and boys

• Why creating a home environment where neurodiverse children don't have to mask is crucial

• Why current research into ADHD and hormones doesn’t go far enough

BEST MOMENTS

"To hit a place where I was having thoughts of giving up my job, I was dreading waking up in the morning, that scares me for women."

"When I was diagnosed, I reflected a huge amount on my childhood... I was so suppressed and told off for fidgeting, told off for talking too much."

"I felt like I had to just soldier on because it's just perimenopause. Like just get on with it. All women go through this."

"If you are questioning that person's commitment to their therapy, that could be quite damaging for the therapeutic relationship."

"We thrive in chaos. I didn't know that at the time... that's when I perform best is when I'm under that pressure."

"I don't believe I was like that before... I'm getting burnt out quicker and needing that decompression time where I have to say I just need to be on my own."

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://www.kentcounsellingservices.co.uk/

https://www.tiktok.com/@jodie_adhd_therapist?_t=ZN-8wqGwVw1t4A&_r=1

https://pensight.com/x/jodie-sturges

HOST BIO

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/michelle.kimp.9/

Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@michelle_rowlinson

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Website www.panaceapause.co.uk

Why Lifestyle Changes Could Reshape Your Perimenopause with Aanu Benson

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 23:00:00 +0100

Michelle speaks with Aanu Benson, a menopause coach from Lagos, Nigeria. Aanu reshaped her experience of over 60 symptoms into a powerful mission to break the silence around menopause. A passionate advocate, Aanu reveals the reality of navigating perimenopause without knowledge or support. She talks about cultural misconceptions, career impact, relationship challenges and the power of lifestyle changes.

Aanu Reveals:

• The 60 symptoms she experienced before realising she was in perimenopause

• How in Nigeria, perimenopause symptoms are often attributed to witchcraft or spiritual curses, leading women to seek inappropriate treatments

• The impact that menopause can have on the careers of women

• How effective lifestyle changes can be for managing perimenopause symptoms

• Why educating younger women is crucial

• Why relationships suffer without understanding perimenopause and its symptoms

• The importance of education and why women must learn that symptoms are hormonal, not personal failings

• Why healthcare and workplace training are so desperately needed

BEST MOMENTS

"I thought I was dying. That's the thing. I thought I was dying. I thought I was going crazy, especially since the doctors didn't have answers."

"Everything went crazy, in my mind, in my body and my emotions and I had no one to explain to me that this is exactly what you're going through."

"I felt like my mind was hovering around, like floating above me, kind of like watching me, but it was not in my body."

"The silence ends with me. I need to do something about this. I cannot watch while another woman just goes off and begins the silence struggle."

"Lots of people feel that perimenopause symptoms are caused by African magic or that it's spiritual or that you've been bewitched."

"There's no one pill, you know, we just have to work on lifestyle adjustments, fitness works, wonders."

"Oestrogen to a woman is just the same as fuel to a car. So once the oestrogen begins to decline, then everything is going to start happening everywhere."

EPISODE RESOURCES

Here's a link to Sister's Keeper 's YouTube Channel for more helpful tips on how to navigate your menopause journey:

Contact Aanu here:

http://bit.ly/40Z2vHt

HOST BIO

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/michelle.kimp.9/

Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@michelle_rowlinson

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Website www.panaceapause.co.uk

A Different Perspective on Menopause with Barbara Lewthwaite

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 23:00:00 +0100

Join Michelle as she speaks with Barbara Lewthwaite. Barbara brings a spiritual perspective to menopause that will challenge everything you think you know. In their conversation, she reveals how mysterious paralysis episodes led to her menopause diagnosis, shares her approach to managing menopause symptoms through mindfulness and why trusting intuition over medical intervention and embracing nature's healing power will give you a different perspective on menopause.

Barbara Reveals

• The often unusual menopause symptoms that exist

• How mindfulness can transform pain perception

• That nature provides powerful healing tools

• Why trusting your body is crucial

• That menopause represents a transition to wisdom

• Why support systems matter more than advice

• Why individual approaches for menopause work better than one-size-fits-all

BEST MOMENTS

"I felt like I've been hit by a lightning bolt. I got on the phone, I said, I don't want that man doctor. I wanted a woman doctor."

"It seemed the resisting was causing the pain. So if I just allowed my body to be the way my body wanted to be and took time off from my life for that to happen, it was no longer pain."

"My body just said, no, don't think, don't do anything. Just sit it out. And it became quite a spiritual time, a special time to lie in the woods."

"I can't recommend wild swimming highly enough, and it helps for everything. It helps for your mental wellbeing, for tiredness. It seems to elevate and create a happiness zone to live in."

"The period part is a passage towards adulthood, and the menopause is a passage to wisdom, to the world of elders, elder wisdom."

"In 52 years now of doing past life readings, I've never ever met anyone who wasn't doing what they're meant to be doing."

"Find someone you trust as a sounding board. Someone will just listen to what your experience is. The last thing you need is advice.

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://www.facebook.com/share/16GrDbda1Z/

HOST BIO

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/michelle.kimp.9/

Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@michelle_rowlinson

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Website www.panaceapause.co.uk

What Does Perimenopause Have to Do with ADHD & Autism?

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 23:00:00 +0100

In this episode, Michelle talks about why so many women in their 40s and 50s are being diagnosed with ADHD and Autism and what this has to do with perimenopause. She shares why it can take women to hit middle age to realise that they aren’t neurotypical and how getting diagnosed herself this year has quite literally changed her life. She also shares how you can tackle your peri symptoms and get help for ADHD traits and potentially seek a diagnosis.

Michelle Reveals

• The flaws in the diagnostic criteria for autism and ADHD

• How the symptoms of ADHD and ASD in girls were dismissed as personality traits, such as daydreaming, for decades

• Why women and girls have spent generations masking their behaviour and finding ways to cope in a world set up for neurotypicals

• Why the coping mechanisms and systems women have relied on their entire lives can stop working

• The role oestrogen plays in the brain

• Dopamine and serotonin are the neurotransmitters responsible for reward, motivation, focus and attention

• How the right combination of HRT and ADHD medication has changed her life

• Why masking can lead to burnout

BEST MOMENTS

"Teachers and doctors often dismissed them as emotional or shy, not neurodiverse”

“Decades later, those same women are hitting perimenopause and suddenly the wheels are falling off”

“During menopause, which can start as early as your mid to late 30s, oestrogen can begin to fluctuate unpredictably”

“Perimenopause is unmasking traits that you may have been able to manage, suppress or work around for years”

“It felt like my brain wasn’t connecting to my body”

“The more you mask, the harder it is to be yourself”

EPISODE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Facebook https://www.facebook.com/michelle.kimp.9/

Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@michelle_rowlinson

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Website www.panaceapause.co.uk

Know Your Normal: Pelvic Health During Menopause with Julie White

Wed, 18 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Michelle is joined by Julie White, a holistic pelvic care practitioner and passionate advocate for women's health and vitality. Julie gives advice on how to manage intimate and pelvic health, including during menopause. She shares how getting to know your own pelvic space can heal anxiety, restore confidence and prevent future health issues. From her incredible fertility success stories to the shocking truths about vaginal health in menopause that doctors aren't discussing, Julie's approaches could revolutionise how we approach women's health.

Julie White Reveals

How pelvic health routines can prevent future problems
The power of healing trauma on physical health
How vaginal health is often overlooked in menopause care
The usefulness of online pelvic examinations
How strength training can help during menopause and ageing

BEST MOMENTS

"Why are all women not taught this simple tool? In order to be able to not only reclaim sovereignty over their own body, but understand what's going on in order to seek advice when they need to."

"I haven't had anxiety at all since, and it's because I can start to feel that residual buildup or the little butterflies in the stomach."

"I developed a sense of confidence and feminine self assurance that I'd ever had in my life when I started to cultivate this relationship with my pelvic space."

"Bladder control issues and bladder infections can be as a result of a weak pelvic floor and not having a pelvic health routine, rather than it just being menopause symptoms."

"My biggest hope is that your normal campaign is as predominant in the psyche of women as checking your breasts for lumps."

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-white-31173542?
utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app

https://www.facebook.com/share/1AHNM9bHJm/?mibextid=wwXIfr

https://www.tiktok.com/@julie.annwhite?_t=ZN-8vnlWryjkTW&_r=1

www.pussygalore.org.uk

https://www.instagram.com/pu.ssygaloreltd?
igsh=MTduMmYwYm55cGxiMA%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

N.B. Tami Lynn Kent, creator of holistic pelvic care

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Perimenopause-Solution-control-hormones-before/dp/1785043641

What Your GP Won't Tell You About Perimenopause with Dr. Harper Menopause Specialist

Wed, 11 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Dr. Harper, a leading menopause specialist and founder of the Harper Clinic on Harley Street, joins Michelle in this episode. Author of the Perimenopause Solution, Dr. Harper talks with Michelle about all things menopause, from libido and weight management to testosterone therapy and innovative treatments like GLP-1 injections. She shares why perimenopause can start in your thirties, talks about why testosterone could transform your energy levels and why she believes menopause can be the start of your best life yet.

Dr Harper Reveals

Why perimenopause often starts earlier than you think
Why HRT has been an essential part of her menopause journey
The truth about testosterone
How GLP-1 weight loss injections work in multiple ways
Why blood tests alone can't diagnose perimenopause
The free strategies that can help with weight management
That HRT has no upper age limit and is as individual as the person taking it
Why workplace menopause support is crucial

BEST MOMENTS

"I wanted to capture women in that perimenopause stage when things are starting to change. When they feel like they're going a little bit out of control, maybe even think they're going crazy."

"You can be sexy and glam and be menopausal, you know? I think it can start sooner than you think."

"I call it the mojo hormone because it helps with motivation, you know, sort of reducing the apathy, which maybe many women in their forties just feel it can't be bothered."

"My view is a preventative, proactive view. I don't want you to get to BMI 40 before I prescribe you that."

"We should be given like a bounty pack once we turn 40, we (get) sent out vaginal estrogens and lubrication."

"I don't think I could be sitting here with you, Michelle, if I wasn't on HRT. I know I wouldn't be running a business if I wasn't on HRT."

"A hundred years ago, menopause happened at the age of 55, we'd be dead by 60. Now we're living until 80. So menopause is definitely more midlife now rather than end of life."

"We are not ready to be put out to pasture. You know, we've got a lot of giving to do. But it needs to be a bit more of a selfish giving."

Dr Harper's Link

www.theharperclinic.com

EPISODE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

www.linkedin.com/in/donna-moors-midlifebeyondlimits

Beyond Surviving Menopause with Donna Moors

Wed, 04 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Michelle speaks with Donna Moors, an ABACP registered counsellor, yoga and mindfulness teacher, and mother of four. Donna shares her own experience of menopause, including misdiagnosed symptoms and reveals how this life change became her greatest opportunity for growth. Donna's holistic approach challenges everything you think you know about menopause, offering hope and empowerment instead of fear.

Donna Reveals

How menopause symptoms are often misdiagnosed or dismissed
Why your nervous system needs a reset during menopause
How easy meditation can be and its benefits
How to reconnect with your authentic self
Why HRT is often trial and error
The importance of boundaries in relationships
How menopause can be reframed as a growth opportunity
That connection combats isolation and can help you manage menopause

BEST MOMENTS

"I feel like my body is angry with me. I feel like my body is like really kind of shouting at me. Something's wrong, do something about it."

"We experience our bodies from the outside in. How do I look? How do other people see me? Am I attractive? We pay so little attention to how do I feel? What do I need

"It's not so much about thinking about nothing, but it's about noticing that the mind does wander and when you notice the wandering, it's about a gentle nudging and bringing the mind back."

"Resilience does not mean I can keep going no matter what. Resilience means recognising when things are too much and stepping back and deciding what needs to happen."

"Your body isn't gonna stand for any more of this. Everybody else has to come first. Your body is almost saying, it's a big wake up call."

"If you feel fear and your internal alarm system's going on and it's a real emergency, then follow through. But if it's just that you're doing a podcast that is unfamiliar to you, then it's okay to have that fear."

"Say yes to more, be more adventurous, be less afraid to show up. Do more, life is short. See this as an opportunity to say yes to yourself."

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://www.instagram.com/donna_moors?igsh=MWJtc2pydWRzcWJheg%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Why Your Diet is Failing with Naomi Holbrook

Wed, 28 May 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Michelle talks with Naomi Holbrook, the unconventional weight loss coach. After battling 30 years of chronic pain, depression and yo-yo dieting, Naomi changed her life at 39 and left her corporate career to help other women do the same. She reveals her SMART Formula for sustainable health transformation and explains why traditional diets fail spectacularly during menopause. Naomi also shares her thoughts on intermittent fasting, strength training, the psychology of change and tackles outdated and toxic health concepts such as ‘good’ -vs- ‘bad’ food.

Naomi Reveals

The SMART Formula that breaks the diet cycle
The factors that are overlooked in menopause by doctors who only prescribe HRT and antidepressants
Why what worked in your 20s and 30s for your diet and fitness won't work after 35, when hormones start depleting
The problems with restrictive eating
Why intermittent fasting can be psychologically damaging
Why weight isn't the real indicator of health
The toxic diet culture vocabulary that needs rewiring

BEST MOMENTS

"I think mine was more like a midlife awakening, I'd realised that I'd been sleepwalking sort of through a period of my life, repeating the same patterns of behaviour."

"The reason you feel stuck is because you are trying to go to a place that doesn't exist anymore."

"You only get that confidence and self-belief when you do the thing that you thought you needed the confidence or the self-belief for."

"So many women say, I know what I need to do. I just need to do it. And here's the truth, 99% of the time they don't."

"What you probably got away with in your twenties and thirties, it's not gonna work now. It's not gonna work anymore."

"I will lend you my belief. I will loan you my belief until I show you how to create your own."

"I feel happier, healthier, more confident now at 50 than I did at 30."

"For me, it's just a piece of data, but for so many women, it impacts their self-esteem, how they feel about themselves, all those different things."

EPISODE RESOURCES

Website: www.theunconventionalweightlosscoach.com

Instagram: @naomiholbrookcoach

Facebook: Naomi Holbrook

Email: hello@theunconventionalweightlosscoach.com

Phone: +44(0) 7703 524610

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Are Your Heart Palpitations Perimenopause?

Wed, 21 May 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In this solo episode, Michelle talks about her own experience with heart palpitations during perimenopause. She shares why this can be a frightening and stressful symptom for many women, the science behind it and what you can do if you are experiencing heart palpitations yourself.

Michelle Reveals

What heart palpitations feel like
The link between hormones and heart palpitations
Why women without existing heart issues can experience palpitations during perimenopause
Why heart palpitations aren’t always recognised as a symptom of perimenopause
What you can do if you are experiencing heart palpitations in perimenopause

BEST MOMENTS

“If you’ve ever felt your heart suddenly racing, fluttering or skipping a beat you’ll know just how unsettling it can be.”

“It was so alarming that I went to my GP multiple times, convinced that there was something seriously wrong.”

“More often, I noticed them when I was feeling anxious or during what I now recognise as anxiety attacks.”

EPISODE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Why Your HRT Approach Might Need Rethinking with Lindsey Lester

Wed, 14 May 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Michelle talks to pharmacist and menopause specialist Lindsey Lester, who shares her knowledge on HRT and menopause management. Lindsey tackles everything from why vaginal symptoms matter to the surprising ways exercise can increase symptoms. She also challenges common myths about HRT and reveals the significant health benefits every woman should know.

Lindsey Reveals

How oestrogen deficiency affects the entire body, not just reproductive organs
Why lack of oestrogen changes fat distribution
How intensive exercise can worsen menopausal symptoms
How to manage vaginal and urinary symptoms of menopause
The differences between body-identical HRT and synthetic hormones.
How patient information leaflets often contain outdated warnings about risks
Why Mediterranean and anti-inflammatory diets can reduce menopause symptoms

BEST MOMENTS

"You go to the GP, they're doing the very, very best they can. They've got like eight minutes, even a double appointment, it's just not cutting through to the root causes and the whole conversation about how you can feel better is not just about the HRT."

"Without oestrogen, your body perceives that you are under threat from a lion, tiger or bear. You don't need fertility, you don't need executive functioning. You don't need to be able to do a math sum in your head. You just need to run away."

"Intensive exercise can worsen symptoms. Some people will notice that if they do all those spin classes, it's like, 'oh gosh, thighs are getting thicker.' It's having the opposite effect. It's just adding to the stress load."

"Every cell in the body bar red blood cells have receptors for hormones and oestrogen in particular in a female."

"There's a massive difference between the body-identical and synthetic HRT. We can't include those in the same sentence. It's chalk and cheese, it really is."

"Self care, if you are not looking after yourself, you are not gonna be able to look after all those other people that depend so much on you."

EPISODE RESOURCES

Lindsey Lester’s clinic. https://avicenna-health.com/medical-service/avicenna-menopause-clinic

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/

Using Your Style to Gain Confidence During Menopause with Shirley Webb

Wed, 07 May 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Michelle talks with Shirley Webb, an award winning colour and style consultant who helps women reclaim their confidence during menopause. After experiencing her own style crisis 20 years ago, Shirley discovered how transformative finding the right colours and styles can be, eventually launching her business "B Transformed." She talks to Michelle about the psychology of colour, the five style personalities and how embracing your true style can be empowering during menopause and at any age.

Shirley Reveals

The power of colour analysis
Why many women experience a shift in confidence during menopause
Why colour is the most crucial element of style
Why wearing black is not slimming
The five style personalities
How to understanding your body lines and proportions
The five steps to style
Why decluttering is an important psychological step for women going through menopause

BEST MOMENTS

"I came out with such a feeling in my tummy of empowerment and confidence and guidance. I went out and bought a couple of cheap t-shirts in my colours, and then I started getting all these compliments."

"When you experience the menopause symptoms, that weight gain, brain fog, confidence it all hits rock bottom."

"Your clothes have to fit you. They have to follow the flow of your body. There needs to be proportion."

"There's a wonderful quote by Coco Chanel from donkeys years ago, which says 'If you dress shabby, they'll remember the dress. If you dress exquisitely, they'll remember the woman.'"

"Black is a barrier to communication and surprisingly enough for the ladies who think it makes them look slimmer. It's the way you wear your colours that makes you look slimmer, not black."

"Styling is all smoke and mirrors. It's all about a tweak here, a tweak there."

"You need to wrap your body in a flattering way."

"If you want to look healthier, if you want to look younger, if you want to look 10 pounds thinner, you don't need cosmetic surgery."

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://www.btransformed.co.uk

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Why Clear Communication is Key in Managing Menopause with Lisa Quait

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Michelle talks with Lisa Quait, host of the Real Women's Stories Podcast. Lisa honestly shares her own menopause experience, including initial misdiagnosis and finding the right medication. She discusses how menopause impacted her work life, leading to memory loss and self-doubt, but then how it ultimately became a catalyst for change and transformed her self-belief.

Michelle and Lisa explore the workplace challenges during menopause, the impact on relationships and share realistic advice, including why clear communication and educating others are essential.

Lisa Reveals

Her initial menopause symptoms
Why early menopause shook her self-confidence
Why it’s important to have your HRT treatment tailored to your specific needs
How stress can mimic menopause symptoms
Why menopause allowed her to recalibrate and find a renewed purpose
The importance of communication with partners, family, and colleagues about menopause
Why during menopause, women should identify and acknowledge all of their feelings
How to gain workplace confidence during menopause
Why marriages can break down during menopause

BEST MOMENTS

"I felt like me again and I suddenly thought maybe throughout my life I've had hormone imbalances that have held me back because of the anxiety that you get with a hormone change."

"It's taken me five years through my journey to get to a really good place. HRT is not one fits all. There are so many different types, we absorb differently."

"I'm sharp, I'm there, I'm that powerhouse woman, and all of a sudden I'm a lesser version of myself. My brain has just gone to mush. My forgetfulness is just off the chart."

"Going through the menopause really gave me my self-belief. I'm not the same because I don't think even when I was younger I had the self-belief and self-worth that I've got now."

"When we are stressed and the body doesn't know the difference between real stress or perceived stress your body will prioritise your stress hormones, cortisol, over your sex hormones."

"I would very often come into the office and go, 'I'm really hormonal today, guys. I'm just letting you know I might be snappy.' Because if people don't know how you are feeling, how do they know how to behave around you?"

"I'm now gonna be doing my coaching full-time and my podcasting full-time... once you go through the menopause and you get a hold of it, you have this inspirational light comes out."

"Sit with yourself, acknowledge yourself. Recognise all the good stuff that you've done, and the reasons why you are feeling the way you are feeling. Are they true or are you creating a narrative in your head that's not true?"

EPISODE RESOURCES

lisa@realwoman.coach

www.realwoman.coach

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Discovering Your Identity in Menopause with Caroline Careys

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Caroline Careys joins Michelle in this episode to share how she positively navigated menopause. Caroline is a mentor who has supported women through their transformative journeys and explains why understanding that menopause isn't just a medical transition is essential to managing this life change. She advocates a holistic approach and shares her advice and experiences to help others, including why menopause isn’t something for women to endure, but an opportunity for growth and personal development.

Caroline Reveals

Why she looked forward to her own menopause
Why menopause isn’t just a medical transition
How menopause can be a journey of empowerment and can be embraced
The beauty in growing older
Why menopause can be an opportunity to find yourself and reclaim your identity
How to find fulfilment and purpose
Why expressing our emotions matters

BEST MOMENTS

"I was excited about my menopause. I was really looking forward to it."

“ I'm not trying to suppress it. I'm not trying to make it stop. I want to experience it as a physical sensation in my body that is necessary. My body needs to do this clearly. It's important.”

" I would never judge a woman for having to get help where she needed to."

"I've always looked at elders, women covered in wrinkles and grey hairs and thought, wow."

"We're just not getting a very realistic perspective on growing old naturally."

"I'm looking at what is our purpose because I think menopause is a great teacher of that. What's my purpose here? What is mine to do? And then that leads to that fulfilment."

"Why are they suddenly complaining now? And it's exactly that, It's like, well we didn't complain because we were scared of being put into an asylum."

EPISODE RESOURCES

Website: https://middleearthmedicine.com/

Womens Course: https://middleearthmedicine.com/maiden-matriarch/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/caroline.carey

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/carolinecarey__

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

The Symptoms of Perimenopause & How To Manage It with Gemma Crane

Wed, 16 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Michelle talks to Gemma Crane, who shares her personal journey through perimenopause, discussing its impact on her daily life and work as a mindset coach. Gemma emphasises the importance of seeking support, navigating healthcare, and the challenges faced by women in the workplace.

Michelle and Gemma's conversation explores everything from symptom recognition to treatment options, with Gemma giving advice on lifestyle changes and advocating for proper healthcare.

Gemma Reveals

The differences between perimenopause and menopause
How perimenopause begins and its symptoms
Why HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) isn't a one-size-fits-all solution
Why women need individualised treatment plans
Why many women dismiss perimenopause symptoms
Testosterone is an essential but often overlooked hormone for women
How lifestyle changes can complement hormonal treatments
The ways women can advocate for themselves in healthcare settings
The education gap between perimenopause and menopause and why the general public and healthcare need better education

BEST MOMENTS

"Perimenopause can start from your late thirties. I often tell women it's like being a teenager again, your hormones are all over the place, you're moody, you can't sleep, but you're not a teenager anymore, you've got responsibilities."

"HRT isn't just about replacing oestrogen. Many women need progesterone as well, and testosterone is often the missing piece of the puzzle. It's about creating a bespoke treatment plan tailored to each woman's individual needs."

"The majority of women walk around having no idea they're perimenopausal. They think they're going mad, their GP tells them they're depressed, they're put on antidepressants, and nobody makes the connection to hormones."

"We need to stop accepting that feeling awful is just part of being a woman. Brain fog, exhaustion, anxiety, joint pain, these aren't things you should just put up with because you're getting older."

"Testosterone isn't just a male hormone. Women produce it too and replacing it appropriately can make a world of difference to energy, brain function, and yes, libido, without any worries about growing a beard!"

"I've had women come to me in tears because they've been told they're too young for menopause or that their blood tests are normal so it can't be hormones. But a blood test is just a snapshot in time, and hormones fluctuate wildly during perimenopause."

"The medical model focuses on the absence of periods as the definition of menopause, but for women, it's about the symptoms they're experiencing, often for years before their periods stop completely."

"If you feel like something isn't right, trust your instincts. Keep a symptom diary, research, ask questions, and find a healthcare provider who will listen. You know your body better than anyone else."

EPISODE RESOURCES

https://mindset-hr.co.uk/

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://www.linkedin.com/in/caryn-clarke-bemeno-positive/

How Workplaces Can Support Menopause with Caryn Clark

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Michelle is joined by Caryn Clark, a menopause champion and workplace advocate, whose own experience of menopause put her on a mission to support menopausal women in business. After her successful career was impacted due to unrecognised menopause symptoms, Caryn created the MENO Positive method; a groundbreaking approach to workplace menopause support.

Discover how she's challenging the shocking statistic that only 10% of businesses have formal menopause policies and sharing practical solutions to create more supportive, productive and inclusive workplaces for the 75% of women whose work is affected by menopause symptoms.

Caryn Reveals

Why undiagnosed menopause symptoms forced her to quit her job.
How her recovery and transformation began
Her MENO Positive method and what it focuses on
Why HRT alone isn't a complete solution
Why workplace menopause support is a financial no brainer for companies
Why personalised approaches and basic awareness are crucial in workplace menopausal support
How businesses can create safe points of contact for women experiencing symptoms
Why embracing midlife and menopause can be transformative rather than a time of limitation

BEST MOMENTS

"Menopause should be mainstream and luckily we're getting there, the quote of one in 10 companies only having menopause policies is improving week by week, month by month."

"It's awareness, the solutions are easy. “

"One in 10 women lose their job due to menopause, yet shockingly, only 10% of businesses have a formal menopause policy.”

"Menopause for you is an obligation, but it's also an opportunity. It's an obligation because you have the obligation to look after the wellbeing of your staff."

"As you hit your late forties and early fifties, you are not worse at your job. You're actually better, you've got so much experience, you've got so much knowledge."

"I think in the next five or 10 years, it'll be more common to have a menopause policy than not to have a menopause policy."

EPISODE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Empower Your Feet: Practical Solutions for Plantar Fasciitis and Structural Changes in Menopause

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 23:00:00 +0100

In this episode, Michelle explores the connection between menopause and foot pain, focusing on conditions like plantar fasciitis and structural changes in the feet. Michelle shares her knowledge on how hormonal shifts during menopause can lead to issues in your feet including pain. Michelle also gives practical tips to manage foot pain and empowers women to take control of their foot health during menopause, encouraging open discussions about all symptoms that can arise during this life transition.

Michelle Reveals

Why menopause can lead to plantar fasciitis
How to choose the right shoes for foot pain
Practical tips to manage foot pain
Why she is raising awareness about the connection between menopause and foot pain
How we can all take control of our health during menopause

BEST MOMENTS

"Menopause can also affect your feet. One unexpected and often overlooked issue is plantar fasciitis."

"As connective tissue weakens, the arches may collapse or become less pronounced."

"Understanding how hormonal shifts affect our bodies empowers us to take control of our health."

"Suffering is optional."

"By staying informed about how declining estrogen impacts connective tissue, you can manage these symptoms effectively."

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100075966822830

From Nurses to Advocates: Emma Henry and Judith Lightfoot Share Their Personal Menopause Experiences

Wed, 26 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In this episode, Michelle sits down with Emma Henry and Judith Lightfoot, two experienced nurses who share their personal journeys through menopause. They reflect on the limited training and knowledge they had about menopause during their nursing careers, highlighting the shocking lack of education even among health professionals. They delve into the emotional and psychological impacts of menopause, including the challenges of managing stress, relationships, and mental health.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Many health professionals, including nurses, reported having limited training and understanding of menopause, often only being aware of basic symptoms like hot flushes and the cessation of periods. This lack of education can lead to inadequate support for patients experiencing menopause.
Both Emma and Judith emphasise the significance of educating oneself about menopause. They encouraged seeking out books, courses, and support groups to better understand the transition and advocate for one's health.
They highlight that menopause can exacerbate mental health issues, with women being more predisposed to anxiety and depression during this time. Emma and Judith share personal experiences of feeling overwhelmed and the importance of recognizing hormonal changes as a contributing factor.
Emma introduced EFT as a therapeutic approach that helps calm the nervous system and address emotional issues without the use of needles. Both Emma and Judith shared positive experiences with EFT, noting its effectiveness in managing anxiety and stress related to menopause.
The transition through menopause can significantly affect family dynamics. Both Emma and Judith discuss the importance of open communication with family members, including children and partners, about the changes they are experiencing, which can foster understanding and support within the family.

BEST MOMENTS

"I just knew that at some stage you went through menopause, all I thought about it was hot flushes and that was about it."

"You kind of felt like you were going to be on your own. Good luck with that."

"It feels a bit like this: if you have any kind of trauma-based stuff that's happened to you and you kind of push it down, at some point, that will come back to you."

"Menopause can happen at any age, we should be teaching teenagers about menopause."

"Educate yourself as much as you possibly can. Talk to women, go and join groups."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Navigating the Menopause Roller Coaster: How Intuition and Self-Exploration Can Lead to Empowerment

Wed, 19 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In this enlightening episode, Michelle welcomes the remarkable Maya Mendoza, an intuitive therapist and spiritual psychologist with over 45 years of experience, to the show. Maya shares her extraordinary journey, including a near-death experience that shaped her unique approach to healing and self-discovery. She delves into the profound connection between emotional well-being and menopausal symptoms, exploring how early life experiences can impact health during this transition. Maya introduces her concept of emotional alchemy, emphasising the importance of reframing perspectives on menopause as a transformative experience rather than a negative one.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Emotional experiences, particularly those stemming from early childhood, significantly impact women's health during menopause. Women who have faced heavy emotional burdens may experience more severe menopausal symptoms due to repressed emotions affecting their physical health.
Emotional alchemy involves transforming negative emotions into positive energy by reframing one's perspective. Instead of focusing on problems, individuals can learn to process emotions through visualisation and metaphor, allowing for healing and a shift in emotional state.
Intuition plays a crucial role in navigating menopause. It helps individuals seek the right support and make informed decisions about symptom management, whether through HRT, herbs, or other holistic practices.
Understanding the menopause process is vital. Women are encouraged to educate themselves about their bodies and the changes they will experience, as this knowledge can reduce resistance and denial, leading to a smoother transition.
Menopause can be a transformative phase rather than a negative one. Embracing the changes can lead to personal growth, increased self-awareness, and a shift in priorities, allowing women to focus on their own needs and desires.

BEST MOMENTS

"I got to really experience other lifetimes and other ways of being and other planets, which may sound completely mad."

"When we have fluttered, heavy emotional experiences. we end up with this heaviness of not being believed and guilt for speaking up."

"Emotional alchemy is taking what you have, where it is now in its entirety, and then placing yourself in a different perspective."

"I think denial, resistance cause the biggest problems."

"You don't have to suffer with menopause symptoms, there's lots of different variants that we can address."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

www.linkedin.com/in/mayamendoza

https://www.youtube.com/mayamendoza

FREE deep relaxation video
https://youtu.be/olDkSTSVFJw?si=7mCCGHaEZ2sUKKw3A

This gentle soundtrack and calming voice of Maya Mendoza will guide you away from stress and into relaxation as the words and music wash over you and lull you into deep physical and mental comfort.

https://www.facebook.com/mendoza.maya

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://www.thewayofthehorse.co.uk/

Discovering Balance and Well-Being Through Equine Therapy with Dina Shale

Wed, 12 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In this episode, Michelle welcomes Dina Shale to the podcast, a pioneer in equine facilitated learning, to discuss the transformative power of horses in managing menopause and perimenopause. Dina shares her personal journey through menopause, highlighting the emotional and physical challenges she faced and how her innovative retreats have helped women reconnect with nature and themselves. Dina also provides insights into grounding techniques, the importance of understanding the nervous system, and how to overcome fears associated with horses.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Horses serve as emotional regulators and can help individuals reconnect with their emotions, instincts, and sense of self, which is particularly beneficial for women navigating menopause.
Engaging with horses in a round pen setting allows participants to practice grounding techniques, helping them to stay present and manage their nervous system, which is crucial for emotional well-being during menopause.
Integrating equine therapy with other menopause management strategies, such as lifestyle changes and hormone therapy, can provide a comprehensive approach to managing symptoms and improving overall well-being.
The approach and retreat method is used to help individuals who may be fearful of horses, allowing them to gradually build confidence and comfort without overwhelming their nervous system.
Continuous learning and self-education are emphasised as essential tools for overcoming challenges during menopause, enabling individuals to make informed choices and improve their quality of life.

BEST MOMENTS

"Horses are what we call emotional regulators. They listen to their instincts, their emotions, and they are their guiding light of how to survive."

"When you start to connect with your feelings, your emotions, and feel it in the same way that horses do, then you have a tool that will serve you for the rest of your life."

"The body keeps the score. It remembers everything that's happened from the past. If you listen to it, you can heal it and move on."

"I think one thing I've definitely found during this journey is the common denominator is listen to our body, listen to ourselves, learn about ourselves."

"Bringing that into the moment and actually being able to feel that emotion is essential because you can't heal or why you don't know anything about your body."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

How Diet and Lifestyle Impact Menopause Symptoms with Dr. Sonnenberg

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In this episode, Michelle speaks with Dr. Carys Sonnenberg, a trailblazer in menopause care, who shares her extensive knowledge and holistic approach to women's health during the menopause transition. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Sonnenberg discusses crucial topics such as the often-overlooked aspects of perimenopause, the evolution of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) since the Women's Health Initiative study, and the broader benefits of progesterone. She emphasises the importance of individualised care, addressing lifestyle factors, and the role of nutrition in managing menopause symptoms.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Menopause care should encompass not just hormonal treatments but also lifestyle factors, including diet, exercise, and mental health. A comprehensive approach considers the whole woman, addressing physical, emotional, and lifestyle aspects.
Each woman's experience with menopause is unique, and treatment should be tailored to individual needs. Factors such as medical history, family history, and lifestyle must be considered when discussing options like hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
The perception of HRT has evolved since the Women's Health Initiative study. While there are risks associated with HRT, particularly concerning breast cancer, the benefits often outweigh the risks for many women under 65. It's crucial for women to have informed discussions with healthcare providers about their specific situations.
Diet plays a significant role in managing menopause symptoms. Emphasizing a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and proteins, along with adequate hydration and exercise, can help improve overall health and alleviate symptoms.
Mental health symptoms, such as anxiety and brain fog, are common during perimenopause and menopause. Understanding that these changes are part of the hormonal journey can empower women to seek appropriate support and treatment, rather than feeling isolated or confused about their experiences.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think we have a way in conventional medicine, but we need to collaborate more with other specialties, particularly lifestyle medicine."

"It's really important to understand what the benefits and the risks and any potential side effects are to that woman, because we all come in with different types of bodies."

"The Women's Health Initiative study in 2002 obviously caused a widespread panic about HRT because the results were leaked before they were properly reviewed."

"It's a risk-benefit chat every year that you're taking it. It shouldn't be someone that is told there is never anything that we can do."

GUEST SOCIALS

Dr Carys Sonnenburg (Web: www.rowenahealth.co.uk

Contact: info@rowenahealth.co.uk

Instagram: @drcaryssonnenberg

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/drcaryssonnenberg

Facebook: www.facebook.com/DrCarysSonnenberg/

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://treasured-chests.co.uk/

Navigating the Intersection of Cancer Treatment and Menopause with Julie Marks

Wed, 26 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In today's episode, Michelle speaks with Julie Marks, a breast cancer survivor and founder of the support group 'Treasure Chests'. After her diagnosis in January 2021, Julie transformed her challenging experience into a powerful community resource, connecting with others facing similar battles. She shares her emotional journey, the importance of community support, and the intersection of cancer treatment and menopause. Julie also discusses her role as Office Manager at Norfolk Integrated Housing and Community Support Service, where she has implemented menopause training workshops for staff, advocating for awareness in the workplace.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

After her breast cancer diagnosis, Julie Marks created a support group called Treasure Chests, which has grown to nearly 70 members. This community provides a vital space for individuals to share experiences, gain confidence, and support one another through their cancer journeys.
Julie experienced severe menopause symptoms, including intense hot flashes and brain fog, while undergoing cancer treatment. She emphasises the importance of being informed about potential side effects of hormone therapies and encourages open discussions about these challenges.
As the Office Manager for Norfolk Integrated Housing and Community Support Service, Julie implemented menopause training workshops for her staff. This initiative aims to educate both female and male employees about menopause, fostering a supportive work environment.
Julie highlights the significance of open communication regarding health challenges. By discussing symptoms and experiences with friends, family, and colleagues, individuals can reduce feelings of isolation and receive the support they need.
Julie hopes to expand the reach of Treasure Chests and create additional support networks for caregivers and family members of cancer patients. She also advocates for lowering the breast cancer screening age, recognising the increasing number of younger individuals affected by the disease.

BEST MOMENTS

"Cancer, as we know, affects everybody regardless of age, background. So we've got nearly 70 members now. We have an online community. Yeah, it's been very rewarding."

"It's not telling people you're going to go through this, but if you've got at least that, you know, it's like reading side effects on most medications."

"The biggest buzz I get is from supporting other people and seeing those people come in that have lost their confidence, and seeing those people change over the weeks."

"I think it's about learning to take ownership and control over yourself. And ultimately, it's your body, you make that decision."

"Communication is the biggest, biggest way to help yourself because if those around you aren't aware, if you're trying to hide it, often you can come across as being moody."

VALUABLE RESOURCES

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://growinspires.org/silvatree

Navigating the Storm: Eleri Cosslett Shares Her Personal Struggles with Menopause and Mental Health

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In today's episode, Michelle engages in a heartfelt conversation with Eleri Kossler, a remarkable entrepreneur and former corporate lawyer, who shares her transformative journey through menopause. Eleri opens up about her personal struggles with perimenopause, including debilitating symptoms like depression, lethargy, and weight gain, and discusses the lack of support and understanding she faced. As the founder of Love Entrepreneurs and Silvertree, she emphasises the importance of reinvention and resilience, offering practical advice and insights for managing menopause symptoms.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The journey through menopause can be profoundly challenging, with symptoms such as extreme lethargy, depression, and anxiety affecting daily life and work performance. It's important to recognise that these experiences can vary significantly among women.
Open discussions about menopause are crucial for breaking the stigma surrounding it. Sharing experiences can help raise awareness and foster understanding among partners, families, and workplaces.
Adopting an anti-inflammatory diet and making lifestyle changes, such as reducing sugar intake, can significantly alleviate menopause symptoms. Personal responsibility for health choices is emphasised as a key factor in managing symptoms.
There is a call for improved understanding and treatment options for menopause within the medical community. Many women feel that their symptoms are not adequately addressed by traditional medical approaches, highlighting the need for more comprehensive care.
Eleri encourages employers to adopt flexible working arrangements to accommodate the needs of women experiencing menopause. This includes allowing for varied work hours and creating supportive environments that recognize the impact of menopause on productivity and well-being.

BEST MOMENTS

"I went from somebody that could function and work 12 hours a day with lots of energy to somebody that had to go to bed every two hours."

"I think men are realising now that these were economic losses for the business."

"I had to just accept it and give myself permission to just go to sleep if I needed to."

"If this had happened to men, there'd be, you know, no question there'd be a solution."

"I think we need to start thinking more about how we're going to holistically work this."

GUEST LINKS

http://love-entrepreneurs.com/

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Hormonal Changes and Travel Anxiety: Why Many Women Experience Sudden Fears

Wed, 12 Feb 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In this episode, Michelle explores the often-overlooked symptom of travel anxiety during menopause. Drawing from her personal experiences, Michelle shares how her confidence behind the wheel diminished unexpectedly, linking this change to hormonal fluctuations associated with perimenopause. She discusses the physiological reasons behind increased anxiety, particularly the decline in progesterone, and how it can manifest in various travel-related fears, such as driving at night or flying. The episode offers practical strategies for managing this anxiety, including taking small steps, practising mindfulness, and seeking support from others.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Many women experience sudden travel-related anxiety during menopause, affecting their confidence in driving, flying, and using public transport.
The decline in hormone levels, particularly progesterone, during perimenopause and menopause can lead to increased anxiety and fear in situations that were previously comfortable.
Sharing experiences with other women reveals that travel anxiety is a widespread issue, with many facing similar fears, such as avoiding night driving or public transport.
Effective ways to manage travel anxiety include acknowledging the feelings, taking gradual steps to regain confidence, practising mindfulness and breathing exercises, discussing experiences with others, and seeking professional help if necessary.
Talking about menopause symptoms, including travel anxiety, is crucial for support and validation, helping women realise they are not alone in their experiences.

BEST MOMENTS

"I thought maybe it was just a fluke or that I'd suddenly developed this irrational fear."

"When I started talking to other women about my experience, I found out just how common this issue is."

"As we go through perimenopause and menopause, our hormone levels decline, particularly progesterone."

"It's easy to feel like you're losing your confidence or that something's wrong with you."

"If the anxiety becomes overwhelming or starts to interfere with your day-to-day life, it might be worth speaking to a therapist or a counsellor."

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://www.linkedin.com/in/debs-eastwood-31309b112

Navigating Menopause: Insights and Strategies from Holistic Health Pioneer Dr. Debs Eastwood

Wed, 05 Feb 2025 01:00:00 +0100

In this episode, Michelle speaks with Dr. Debs Eastwood, a pioneering medical doctor and co-founder of Elixir Holistic Health. With a rich background in traditional medicine, including anaesthesia and stem cell research, Dr. Eastwood shares her transformative journey into holistic health, driven by personal experiences and a desire to revolutionise wellness. They delve into the complexities of menopause, exploring how holistic therapies can complement conventional treatments and improve women's health. Dr. Eastwood emphasises the importance of self-awareness, movement, and sleep, while also discussing the creation of a groundbreaking database of holistic practitioners.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Traditional medicine has its place, especially in acute situations, but a holistic approach can provide additional benefits for managing symptoms, particularly during menopause. This includes exploring natural remedies and lifestyle changes alongside conventional treatments.
Women should develop a strong self-awareness of their bodies and listen to their needs, especially regarding sleep, movement, and nutrition. Recognising when to rest and when to be active can significantly improve overall well-being during menopause.
Open conversations about menopause among colleagues, friends, and family can foster understanding and support. Sharing experiences and remedies can create a sense of camaraderie and help women feel less isolated in their struggles.
Diet and lifestyle choices play a crucial role in managing menopause symptoms. Regular movement, a balanced diet, and adequate sleep are fundamental to maintaining hormonal balance and overall health.
There is a significant gap in menopause education among healthcare professionals. Increased training and awareness about menopause can lead to better support for women experiencing symptoms, ultimately improving their quality of life.

BEST MOMENTS

"I think traditional medicine has a place, but for managing pain symptoms, I want something more natural and in tune with my body's rhythms."

"I now feel that there are so many other ways to address problems with regard to the way your wretched hormones make you feel."

"It's nice to sort of get a variety of ideas so that you can try new things and see if it works for you."

"A red flag is people that have no lived experience of it and obviously no training."

"If you feel exhausted by nine o'clock at night, listen to your body. Go to bed at nine o'clock."

GUEST RESOURCES

https://www.facebook.com/debby.eastwood

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://apps.fliplet.com/perfect-health

Practical Strategies for Managing Menopause Symptoms with Elaine Godley

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Today, Michelle speaks with Elaine Godley, founder of the Perfect Health Hub and a qualified nutritionist with a remarkable journey of overcoming serious health challenges, including stage 4 cancer. Elaine shares her unique perspective on menopause, emphasizing the critical connection between overall health, nutrition, and mindset during this life transition. With a focus on practical strategies, she discusses common dietary mistakes women make during perimenopause and menopause, the importance of maintaining a balanced diet, and the impact of stress on hormonal health.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

A balanced diet and healthy lifestyle are crucial for managing menopause symptoms. Emphasizing whole, organic foods and minimizing processed options can lead to a smoother transition.
Maintaining a positive and realistic mindset can significantly influence how women experience menopause. Self-talk and affirmations play a vital role in shaping one's health and well-being.
Each woman's body is unique, and it's essential to understand individual nutritional needs. Home testing for mineral levels can help tailor dietary choices to support overall health.
Organisations should prioritize health and well-being by providing education and resources about menopause. Open communication and supportive policies can help retain employees and improve workplace morale.
Reducing exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in processed foods and plastics is important for hormonal balance. Choosing natural, unprocessed options can mitigate these risks.

BEST MOMENTS

"If you're going into menopause, it's so important to eat well, to think well."

"Every single one of the minerals that we have need to be in the right ratios, but the right ratios for your body."

"Fear is the biggest cause of illness; when people are frightened, your whole body picks up the fear."

"It's important to filter and to remineralise. And it's the minerals that's important, particularly when going through the menopause ages."

"Employers do need to make health and well-being an important part of workplace day-to-day activities."

GUEST BIO

elaine@discplus.health

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://tropicskincare.com/lucindaweston https://www.facebook.com/share/g/YGr1j19aeTM3RchW/?mibextid=K35XfP

From Exhaustion to Empowerment: Lucinda Weston's Journey Through Menopause and Skincare

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In this episode, Lucinda Weston shares with Michelle her inspiring journey through the challenges of menopause, including the debilitating symptoms that once left her exhausted and struggling to maintain her job. As a Tropics Ambassador, Lucinda discusses her hard-earned success in the skincare industry and how her personal experiences have fueled her passion for helping other women navigate their own skincare challenges during menopause.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

The journey through menopause can lead to significant challenges, including chronic fatigue and mental health issues. Many women may feel unsupported by healthcare professionals, leading to feelings of isolation and frustration.
Taking charge of one’s health is crucial. Researching symptoms, seeking alternative treatments, and finding supportive communities can empower women to navigate their menopause journey more effectively.
Menopause can cause various skin issues, such as dryness and acne. Using natural skincare products, like those from Tropic, can help alleviate these symptoms by avoiding harmful chemicals that exacerbate skin problems.
Making dietary changes, such as reducing carbohydrates and sugar, can significantly improve energy levels and overall well-being during menopause. It's essential to listen to one’s body and adapt lifestyle choices accordingly.
Connecting with other women going through similar experiences can provide emotional support and practical advice. Sharing knowledge and resources helps create a community that fosters understanding and empowerment during menopause.

BEST MOMENTS

"I was literally on a sofa, I was falling asleep on my feet. It took about 18 months and then I decided I needed to do something about this."

"I honestly thought there was something seriously wrong with me. It went from high to low with me very quickly."

"I wish I knew about it. I think there should be something for the younger females to understand before they hit it."

"One of the things I often say, well, actually, we end up being more in tune. So in effect, we're more healthier because we're looking to look after ourselves more."

"They think that, oh, we've got to have this, that and the other. You don't have to spend lots of money."

GUEST SOCIALS

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

https://www.facebook.com/DrAnnaCabeca

The Girlfriend Doctor: Navigating Menopause with Humor, Heart, and Hormonal Wisdom

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In this episode, Michelle welcomes the dynamic Dr. Anna Cabeca, a triple board-certified expert in women's health and the author of several best-selling books, including "The Hormone Fix." Dr. Anna, affectionately known as the "girlfriend doctor," shares her personal journey through menopause and offers invaluable insights into the hormonal changes women experience during this transformative phase of life. They delve into the critical roles of progesterone and oxytocin, the importance of maintaining a healthy balance of hormones, and practical dietary strategies tailored for menopausal women.

Grab your copy of Michelle's You, Me Conquering Perimenopause & Menopause on Amazon now: https://amzn.eu/d/j9xCawt

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Menopause is a natural transition, and while it is mandatory, suffering through it is optional. It's essential to understand the hormonal changes, particularly the significant drop in progesterone and its effects on mood, sleep, and overall health.
Progesterone plays a crucial role beyond reproductive health; it supports mental well-being by aiding in the production of serotonin and melatonin. This hormone is vital for mood stabilization, sleep quality, and cognitive function, making it important for women to advocate for its use, even post-hysterectomy.
The Keto Green diet emphasizes achieving ketosis while incorporating alkalinizing foods. This approach helps manage weight, improve mental clarity, and support hormonal balance, particularly beneficial for menopausal women who may struggle with insulin resistance and weight gain.
Oxytocin, known as the love hormone, can counteract the negative effects of cortisol, the stress hormone. Engaging in activities that promote oxytocin production, such as physical touch, laughter, and gratitude, can significantly improve emotional and physical well-being during menopause.
Women should focus on individualized health strategies, recognizing that what works for one person may not work for another. Simple steps, such as checking urine pH, adjusting dietary approaches, and incorporating daily practices that enhance mood and well-being, can lead to significant improvements in managing menopausal symptoms.

BEST MOMENTS

"Where menopause is natural and mandatory, suffering is optional. We shouldn't suppress this major transformation in our lives any more than we would suppress puberty."

"Progesterone is effective for the brain, the memory, the mood, our sense of peace within our body. It helps with our bones and breast health."

"It's shocking that even some gynecologists are saying, 'Oh, it increased the risk of cancer,' which for most women would be like, 'Oh, yeah, I don't want it then.'"

"Oxytocin is the most powerful hormone in our body. It balances all these reproductive hormones to a significant degree."

"What do you need to refine in your life that works for you versus against you? Is it that you need to take that daily walk?"

GUEST SOCIALS

https://drannacabeca.com

https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor

HOST BIO

www.panaceapause.co.uk

@MenopauseTheRealDeal

@Michelle_rowlinson

Navigating Early Menopause: Alicia Hunt's Journey from Puberty to Perimenopause at 14

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In today's episode, Michelle sits down with Alicia Hunt, who shares her extraordinary journey of experiencing menopause at just 14 years old. Alicia's story begins with severe health issues at age 10, leading to emergency surgery and the early onset of menopause. Throughout the episode, Alicia discusses the challenges she faced, including managing symptoms like hot flashes, fatigue, and brain fog, all while navigating the complexities of adolescence. She reflects on the emotional impact of her diagnosis, the isolation she felt, and the importance of advocating for herself in a medical system that often dismissed her concerns.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Experiencing menopause at a young age, such as 14, can lead to significant emotional and physical challenges, including confusion during puberty and feelings of isolation.
There is often a lack of education regarding the symptoms of menopause and perimenopause, especially for younger individuals. Many may not recognize their symptoms as related to menopause, leading to misdiagnosis or delayed treatment.
Having a supportive advocate, like a parent, can be crucial in navigating medical appointments and ensuring that symptoms are taken seriously. It's important to persistently seek help and not settle for dismissive responses from healthcare providers.
Early menopause can affect self-esteem and relationships, leading to feelings of inadequacy and embarrassment. The inability to have children can create additional emotional burdens and complicate romantic relationships.
There is a growing need for open discussions about menopause, especially for younger women. Sharing experiences and seeking support from others can help alleviate feelings of isolation and provide valuable insights into managing symptoms.

BEST MOMENTS

"I was told that I would still get periods from the one remaining ovary. I thought, oh, okay, you know, this ovary is just trying to pick up the slack."

"I felt very isolated. I was having quite serious stuff in my life at a very young age."

"I didn't know how to tell someone what was going on with me. So I just became more and more, you know, just by myself, really."

"I find that a lot of the time when you go to your GP, it does get brushed off as other symptoms."

"I definitely think it's more of a conversation now. Definitely more women are speaking up."

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

Empowering Women Through Menopause: Sarah Law's Journey from Performer to Naturopathic Nutritionalist

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0100

Today, Michelle speaks with Sarah Law, a naturopathic nutritionist with over a decade of experience in supporting women through menopause. Sarah shares her fascinating journey from a professional performer to a health advocate, driven by her own hormonal challenges and her mother's early menopause experience. They discuss the intricate relationship between hormones, the immune system, and inflammation, offering practical tips for thriving during menopause. Sarah also mentions her co-created Thrive Nutrition and Wellbeing program, designed to empower women with the knowledge and tools to reclaim their health and vitality.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Menopause involves significant hormonal shifts, particularly with estrogen and progesterone, which can impact various bodily systems, including the immune system and metabolism. It's crucial to recognize how these changes can lead to symptoms like anxiety, depression, and inflammation.
Gut health plays a vital role in hormonal balance and overall well-being. Issues with gut health can lead to poor detoxification of estrogen and contribute to symptoms experienced during menopause. A focus on gut health can help alleviate some menopausal symptoms.
A comprehensive approach that includes nutrition, stress management, and lifestyle changes is essential for managing menopause. This includes adopting an anti-inflammatory diet, managing blood sugar levels, and ensuring adequate hydration and sleep.
Women should be empowered to understand their bodies and advocate for their health. This includes recognizing the importance of being informed about hormonal health and the potential impact of lifestyle factors on menopausal symptoms.
There is no one-size-fits-all solution for menopause. Each woman's experience is unique, and personalized strategies that consider individual health histories, dietary needs, and lifestyle factors are crucial for effective management of menopausal symptoms.

BEST MOMENTS

"I want to be someone who is able to educate others in a way that makes them think differently about their health and take more control of their health."

"What I watched was my mum become her own health advocate. She fought nail and tooth basically to be prescribed bioidentical progesterone."

"The inflammation is coming from the immune system. So we have to basically bring that immune system back into a state of regulation."

"It's not preventative care for a start and it's then only like right we've got a pill to deal with that thing but we're not looking at the body as a whole."

"If you do those things for too long, your body is far too clever. And it goes, no, you've been doing this too much. I'm flipping you out."

ABOUT THE GUEST

Sarah Law

Freebies: https://go.sarah-law.uk/steps-to-thrive-through-menopause https://sarah-law.uk/proteinsnacks
Her Programmes: https://go.sarah-law.uk/thrive-wellbeing-program https://sarah-law.uk/7-day-sales-page
Book a free discovery call:
https://link.madeformore.ai/widget/bookings/discoverycallmrowlinson

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag

The Real Deal on Menopause: Debunking Myths and Sharing Real Stories

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 00:00:00 +0100

In this first episode, Michelle shares her personal journey of the challenges she has faced through perimenopause and menopause. She highlights the physical and emotional struggles she faced, including weight gain, skin changes, mood swings, and memory loss. Michelle recounts her transformative moment of discovering the term "perimenopause" and the lack of awareness surrounding it among health professionals. She emphasises the importance of understanding menopause and the various ways women can manage their symptoms, from dietary changes to hormone replacement therapy. With a mission to break the stigma and provide support, Michelle introduces the podcast's format, which will feature expert guests, personal stories, and practical tips to empower women navigating their menopause journey.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

Michelle shares her own struggles with perimenopause, including unexpected weight gain, skin changes, mood swings, and memory loss, which led her to seek answers and ultimately discover the term "perimenopause."
There is a significant gap in awareness and understanding of perimenopause among health professionals, as the host notes that none of her doctors mentioned it during her years of experiencing symptoms.
Research into anti-inflammatory diets revealed that dietary changes can help alleviate menopause symptoms, prompting the host to write a book with accessible recipes and information for women.
Michelle emphasises the importance of providing support and education to women experiencing menopause, aiming to break the stigma and myths surrounding it through workshops, online courses, and this podcast.
The podcast aims to create a community where women can share their experiences and learn from each other, highlighting that menopause affects everyone, not just those going through it directly.

BEST MOMENTS

"I had the worst panic attack ever over whether I was going to get the right cereal."

"It was like a light bulb moment: it was something natural. But nobody had mentioned it."

"I wanted other women to know about these diets that I'd had to research so they could have something that was easy to read with nice, easy recipes to follow."

"There's just a lack of understanding and inadequate support in general because there's still such a stigma."

HOST BIO

Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rowlinson-38330b21a

Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTheRealDeal

My Book: You, me conquering perimenopause & menopause https://amzn.eu/d/hCcbjag