This week Jodie is joined by Hayley Perkins, Psychotherapist and Clinical Hypnotherapist. Hayley specialises in creating spacious, judgment-free pauses where clients can tell the truth about what they want and what they fear. That raw honesty becomes the doorway back to self, clarity, and aligned action.
In this episode of Midlife Mayhem and Magic, they discuss the transformative journey of midlife. They explore themes of self-discovery, vulnerability, and the impact of societal expectations on women. Hayley shares her personal experiences with disordered eating, the importance of community, and the shift away from hustle culture towards a more balanced and fulfilling life. The conversation emphasises the need for safe spaces to express vulnerability and the significance of money mindset in personal growth.
Connect with Hayley here:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BJ8gyWN3D/?mibextid=wwXIfr
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hayleyperkinstherapist/
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Midlife Mayhem
02:57 Embracing Midlife Changes
05:54 The Journey of Self-Discovery
08:55 Navigating Personal Transformation
11:46 The Impact of Money Mindset
14:56 Creating Safe Spaces for Vulnerability
17:44 The Shift from Hustle Culture
20:47 The Importance of Community and Connection
23:41 Exploring Spirituality and Inner Growth
26:43 The Role of Relationships in Personal Growth
29:47 Finding Balance in Life
32:32 The Power of Vulnerability in Business
35:31 Conclusion and Future Aspirations
This week, Jodie is joined by Professor Joyce Harper, an internationally renowned award-winning educator, podcaster, author, academic, public speaker and scientist. A professor of reproductive science at the University College London, Institute of Women's Health.
Joyce is currently working on her latest book where she interviews 51 post-menopausal women and their experiences.
You will feel Joyce's vitality and vibrancy throughout the episode and she is an incredible inspiration for all of us. A reminder that we get to choose how we navigate every life transition.
Sex, friendships, nutrition and challenges - all of them are covered. This episode is not to be missed. It will fill you with joy, hope and you'll definitely have a chuckle.
If you'd like to connect with Joyce on Instagram, here is her link: https://www.instagram.com/profjoyceharper/
If this episode has resonated - please let us know. Like, comment and share so we can reach as many people as we possibly can.
Nicola is a transformational author and rebel leader of The Unbound Press - a soul-led publishing company for magical women writing world-changing books.
In this episode Jodie and Nicola discuss the transformational work of creating your book, the reality of midlife: changing bodies, hair and sexiness.
You will get to see the depths of Nicola's wisdom, intuition and beauty in this episode.
Nicola is running a FREE writing workshop in November. How to connect with Nicola:
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/nicolahumberFB: https://www.facebook.com/nicolaahumber/
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Unbound Living
01:40 The Birth of the Unbound Press
04:08 Creating Community Through Writing
07:48 The Importance of Retreats
09:11 The Need for Space and Reflection
12:02 Navigating the Good Girl Conditioning
16:34 Pivotal Moments of Transformation
20:50 The Journey of Self-Discovery
24:32 Embracing Change in Midlife
25:20 Embracing Change: The Journey to Self-Acceptance
32:14 Rebel Leaders: Defying Societal Expectations
40:29 Sensuality and Visibility in Midlife
47:29 The Writing Journey: Trusting Your Voice
What if joy isn't something you wait for but something you actively choose?
Meet Cat Googe, aka The Joy Queen – Laughter Yogi, Reiki Healer, and the woman who's made it her mission to help you reclaim your energy, self-belief and yes, your JOY, no matter what life throws at you.
In this conversation, we're getting real about what joy actually means (spoiler: it's not toxic positivity), how to find lightness in the heaviest moments, and why laughter might be the most underrated healing tool we have. Cat breaks down the magic of laughter yoga, the physiological benefits of a good giggle, and how intention and gratitude can completely shift your energy.
We're diving into manifestation (with action, not just vibes), choosing joy while holding grief, and why sharing our stories creates the deepest connections. Plus, Cat shares how she went from struggling with her own identity to claiming the title of Joy Queen, and how you can start choosing joy as your superpower too.
This episode will leave you feeling lighter, braver, and ready to celebrate who you are. Because joy? It's not a luxury. It's your birthright.
Expect laughter, realness, and a reminder that when you shift your energy, you shift everything.
Want to connect with Cat?
Instagram: @catgoogeofficial
FB: Cat Googe - Joy Queen
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to the Joy Queen
02:05 Claiming the Title of Joy Queen
05:59 Understanding Joy and Its Realities
09:09 Finding Joy in Difficult Times
12:00 The Power of Intention in Joy
15:00 Navigating Grief and Joy
19:00 The Importance of Laughter
25:57 Exploring Laughter Yoga
31:09 The Emotional Power of Laughter Yoga
33:05 The Innate Nature of Laughter
36:49 Healing Through Collective Laughter
38:11 Manifesting Opportunities in Laughter Yoga
45:36 Choosing Joy in Everyday Life
52:41 The Physiological Benefits of Laughter
From festival fairy to fashion queen – Twinks Burnett is here and she's BRINGING IT!
Get ready for the most delicious conversation about owning who you are, loving your body, and building a tribe that lifts you UP. Twinks spills the tea on her glow-up journey, why fashion is basically therapy, and how she's creating spaces where women can be their most authentic, gorgeous selves.
We're diving deep into midlife magic, the absolute power of female friendships, why vulnerability is your secret weapon, and how to tell societal expectations to kindly fuck off. Plus, the Heartbreakers Club and Bubble Club are changing the game when it comes to self-love and community.
This episode is a love letter to every woman who's ever felt too much, too loud, or too herself. Spoiler alert: that's your superpower, babe! We're celebrating the female form, sisterhood, and the absolute JOY of just being YOU.
Your new mantra? Be kind. Be YOU. And don't apologise for taking up space. 💋
Where to find Twinks:
Instagram: @twinksburnett @heartbreakersclub__
Next Heartbreakers Club at Bar Dona in London 18th December.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Twinks Burnett
01:11 Claiming the Festival Fairy Identity
05:17 The Power of Self-Expression Through Fashion
10:51 Embracing Midlife and Personal Evolution
15:35 Sisterhood and the Importance of Community
20:18 Challenging Societal Expectations
25:00 Finding Empowerment in Vulnerability
30:41 Celebrating the Female Form and Self-Love
32:32 Embracing the Beauty of the Female Body
34:25 The Birth of Heartbreakers Club
37:57 Creating Safe Spaces for Self-Expression
40:53 The Joy of Community and Connection
49:44 Celebrating Change and Evolution
51:10 The Heart of Bubble Club
59:57 Words of Wisdom for the Younger Generation
Join Jodie McLean on a rant/remembering/tangent episode of Midlife Mayhem and Magic.
She will talk about the whole of Season 2 and why this feels like such a milestone for her.
The ADHD diagnosis, the shifts, the uncomfortable realities, the superpowers, the lightbulb moments, the incredible guests that have said yes and opened up in vulnerable and incredible interviews.
Want to be part of episode 3? Slide into the DMs and let us know what you'd love to share. Let's make some magic, baby.
Shout out to you the listener for returning time and time again. We love you!
In this episode of Midlife Mayhem and Magic, host Jodie McLean speaks with Becky Loto, a certified business strategist and mentor, about her journey in entrepreneurship, the importance of confidence in women, and the challenges of body image in the age of social media.
They discuss the significance of fun in business, the balance between personal and professional life, and the unique challenges women face in the workplace.
Becky shares her insights on overcoming self-doubt, embracing individuality, and the necessity of self-care. The conversation culminates in practical advice for women looking to shine in their personal and professional lives.
Connect with Becky:
Website: https://www.tidesbusiness.com/Personal Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/becky.lotoPersonal Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beckylotostrategistPersonal Linked In: http://linkedin.com/in/rebecca-loto-4a381883
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Becky Loto
01:29 The Joy of Surfing and Mindfulness
04:25 Body Image and Social Media Challenges
09:32 Navigating Self-Belief and Confidence
19:02 Becoming an Entrepreneur: The Journey
23:22 Empowering Women in Business
27:34 Navigating Overwhelm and Self-Doubt
29:56 The Blessing and Curse of Ideas
32:18 Setting Goals and Managing Focus
36:28 Embracing Authenticity in Social Media
38:38 Holistic Approaches to Business and Life
45:22 Prioritising Self-Care and Connection
49:34 Embracing Your Unique Spark
In this episode of Midlife Mayhem and Magic, host Jodie McLean engages in a heartfelt conversation with Gillian Brown, co-founder of a community for alcohol-free mothers.
They explore the intertwined relationship between motherhood and alcohol, the guilt associated with drinking, and the journey towards self-acceptance and sobriety.
Gillian shares her personal experiences, the impact of alcohol on mental health, and the importance of community support.
The discussion also touches on the challenges of redefining fun without alcohol, the significance of rituals, and the ripple effect of personal choices on family and friends.
Ultimately, the episode emphasises the courage it takes to embark on an alcohol-free journey and the transformative power of self-love and care.
How to connect with Gillian:
https://our-circle.co.ukhttps://www.instagram.com/alcohol_free_mums_coaching?igsh=Zm85YzBmZWljcHk2&utm_source=qrhttps://www.facebook.com/share/1FPaZZkazc/?mibextid=wwXIf
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Alcohol-Free Journeys
01:42 The Tug of War: Motherhood and Alcohol
05:32 Guilt and Its Impact on Alcohol Consumption
10:18 Identifying as Alcohol-Free vs. Sober
15:31 Finding Fun Without Alcohol
20:29 The Role of Rituals in Alcohol Consumption
25:19 Community and Support in Alcohol-Free Living
30:03 The Ripple Effect: Impact on Family and Friends
35:11 Coping with Emotions and Self-Care
39:45 The Transformation: Mental Health and Self-Love
45:00 Advice for Those Considering an Alcohol-Free Life
Keywords
alcohol-free, sobriety, motherhood, guilt, self-care, community, mental health, support, alcohol dependency, personal growth
⚠️ Content Warning: This episode includes discussion of childhood SA. Please listen with care. Skip if this topic may be activating for you.
In this episode of Midlife Mayhem and Magic, Jodie McLean speaks with Sandie, a gender fluid and disabled change maker, about their journey of coming out in later life, exploring gender identity, and the impact of disability on their sense of self.
Sandie shares their experiences of healing, finding purpose in pain, and the importance of community support. The conversation highlights the challenges of navigating identity and the power of embracing one's true self.
Connect with Sandie:
IG:@the_sandie_roberts @shinecollectiveuk www.sandieroberts.com
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Sandie's Journey
02:00 Coming Out in Later Life
08:45 Exploring Gender Identity
16:52 Navigating Relationships and Intimacy
25:39 Living with Disability and Ableism
28:40 The Struggle for Normalcy
31:42 The Collapse of Identity
35:02 The Moment of Realization
39:09 Finding Purpose in Pain
42:29 The Power of Shared Experience
46:53 Bravery in Healing
51:45 Building Community and Support
Join Jodie McLean and Charlie Brown as they dive into the delightful chaos of midlife, exploring themes of self-acceptance, empowerment, and the magic of human connection.
Discover how Charlie's journey as a people photographer captures the essence of authenticity and joy.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with laughter, insights, and a sprinkle of magic.
Connect with Charlie:
FB: Facebook.com/charlie.lou.brown.7IG:Instagram.com/beyou_photoshootsInstagram.com/charliebrownpics If you love this episode, be sure to like, subscribe and share with someone who would love to hear it too.
#MidlifeMagic #Authenticity #Empowerment
In this episode of "Midlife Mayhem and Magic," Jodie McLean dives deep into the societal pressures surrounding beauty standards, especially as they pertain to aging.
Jodie shares her personal journey of embracing her natural self, discussing the challenges and triumphs of growing out her gray hair and confronting the unrealistic expectations placed on women.
Through candid reflections and heartfelt conversations, she challenges the narrative that women must strive to look younger and instead advocates for self-acceptance and empowerment at every stage of life.
Join Jodie as she opens up about her experiences and encourages listeners to redefine beauty on their own terms.
Follow Jodie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjodiemclean/
Midlife Rewilding: https://www.jodiemclean.co.uk/midlife-rewilding
#BeyondTheMirror #BeautyStandards #SelfAcceptance #Aging #MidlifeMagic #AuthenticBeauty #EmbraceYourself #BodyPositivity #ChallengeNorms #Empowerment
In this deeply personal and reflective episode of "Midlife Mayhem and Magic," we explore the complex themes of shame and forgiveness.
Our host shares a poignant story of religious conditioning and trauma, revealing the profound impact it had on her life.
Through candid storytelling, she delves into the journey of overcoming guilt, embracing forgiveness, and the ongoing process of healing.
This episode is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of sharing our stories to foster understanding and change.
Tune in for an honest conversation that might just resonate with your own experiences.
Thank you for listening. Season 2 coming very soon.
Find Jodie:
IG: https://www.instagram.com/iamjodiemclean/
FB: Jodie McLean and Nourished Soul
LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodie-mclean-3669a62b/
Remember to like, comment and subscribe.
Share with a friend who needs to hear this podcast today.
What if your midlife fatigue isn’t about willpower… but about wiring?
In this episode of Midlife Mayhem & Magic, I’m joined by nutritional therapist and wellbeing coach Helen Jones, who blends science-backed nutrition with deeply supportive coaching to help women reclaim their energy, resilience, and confidence through perimenopause and menopause.
We talk about:
🧠 Why knowing what to do isn't enough, and what actually creates change
💥 Common blocks to motivation and how to move through them
🌿 What your midlife body really needs (hint: it’s not another crash diet)
💛 How to stay consistent when life feels chaotic, messy, and full-on
Helen’s work is rooted in real life, not perfection, and her gentle, practical approach is exactly what so many women need to hear right now.
🎧 Listen now.
Subscribe, like and comment - what landed for you?
Where you can find Helen:
W: www.helenjonesnutrition.com
IG: @helenjonesnutrition
FB: @Helen Jones Nutrition
#MidlifeMagic #PerimenopauseSupport #WomensHealth #MidlifeWellness #EnergyAfter40 #HabitChange #MenopauseNutrition #PodcastForWomen
What happens when the high-achieving, go-go-go lifestyle just… stops working?
In this gentle and deeply honest episode, I chat with my brilliant friend Nic Wood, hairdresser, hair loss specialist, and woman navigating the shift from doing to being in midlife.
We explore:
🌀 The emotional aftermath of lockdown
🧠 Burnout, identity loss, and chasing goals that no longer fit
🧘♀️ Creating slowness, softness, and saying no without guilt
💛 The gift of connection, accountability, and nervous system repair
This is a real-life, voice-notey kind of conversation, the kind you’ll want to listen to on a walk, with a cuppa, or in the bath. It’s a hug in podcast form.
Find Nic on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-wood-hair-loss-specialist/
#MidlifeMayhemAndMagic #NicWood #MidlifeShift #WomenWhoSayNo #SlowLiving #NervousSystemHealing #PodcastForWomen
What happens when the life you built starts to crack beneath the surface? When motherhood doesn’t go to plan? When burnout becomes the invitation to rise, differently?
In this heartfelt, vulnerable and wisdom-rich episode, I’m joined by Sally O’Hara, a transformation coach guiding high-achieving women to release burnout-driven beliefs and lead with softness, clarity and power.
We talk:
🌿 The unexpected call to motherhood
💥 Burnout as a wake-up call, not a failure
🌀 Embodying feminine leadership in a masculine world
💌 The healing power of long voicenotes, nervous system safety, and choosing a new way
If you’ve ever felt like you were doing all the right things and still falling apart, this one’s for you.
🎧 Listen now and share with a woman who’s on the edge of her next chapter.
Sally is offering a FREE Q&A session on 9th July, see below for contact options. Book here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfb3ewvUCN_1zWrbqgDDcP_-YEQJPIxBwAPuL5TR7vbEB1m9A/viewform
Website: Www.therediantretreat.com
Instagram: @thelifebalanceguide
What if midlife wasn’t a crisis but an initiation?
In this episode, I’m joined by the luminous Ebonie Allard, fulfilment facilitator, soul contract guide and embodiment master coach, for a deep, delicious conversation about reclaiming identity, navigating neurodivergence, healing body image, and learning how to feel unapologetically full of yourself.
We explore:
✨ Perimenopause as a spiritual awakening
🧠 Living and leading with neurodivergence
💥 The power of naming your emotional splinters
🔥 Why it’s safe to be visible, expressed, and free
This one is honest, cosmic, funny and real.
You’ll walk away cracked open, comforted, and reminded that your too-muchness is actually your magic.
Connect with Ebonie:
Website: www.ebonieallard.com
YouTube: @EbonieAlchemy
Instagram (Main): @eboniealchemy
Instagram (Shop): @ebonieallard
Facebook: facebook.com/eboniealchemy
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ebonieallard
Want to work with Ebonie?
Her next Initiation begins 1st July 2025.
What if the brain fog, exhaustion, low libido, wild cycle swings and emotional rollercoasters aren’t signs you’re broken… but a totally natural (if messy) phase of life?
In this deeply empowering and practical episode, I sit down with Dr. Jo Vlies, NHS GP and menopause specialist, to bust through the confusion and shame around perimenopause and menopause, and finally talk about what’s really going on.
We cover:
💊 The truth about HRT — when it helps, when it doesn’t
🌿 Why supplements aren’t always the answer
🔥 What happens to libido (and how to reignite it)
🧠 The link between perimenopause and late-diagnosed neurodivergence
💛 How to move through this portal with compassion, clarity and strength
Whether you’re just starting to question if “this might be it” or deep in the weeds of mood crashes, sleepless nights and hot flushes, this one is a balm.
You’re not going mad.
You’re evolving.
Follow Jo on Instagram → @drjovlies
Book a private menopause consultation → www.drjovlies.com
Jodie is joined by powerhouse mentor and wise woman Ekaterina Ward in this candid and soul-nourishing episode. They explore the juggle of motherhood, entrepreneurship, and personal growth through the lens of midlife transformation.
Expect honesty, laughter, wisdom and a few goosebump moments, as they navigate what it really takes to stay radiant in the midst of the mayhem.
Find Ekaterina on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ekaterinaward/
Find Jodie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjodiemclean/
Ekaterina is gifting a workbook for magical self-inquiry: https://ekaterinaward.com/midlife-mayhem-and-magic
Episode 2: Motherhood (and the bits we don’t say out loud)
Motherhood was the most requested topic after Episode 1, so here we are.
In this episode, I speak from the heart about what it means to be a mother, to not be a mother, to grieve, to carry guilt, to rage quietly, and to find moments of magic in the chaos.
This isn’t a parenting tips episode. This is for anyone navigating identity, exhaustion, and expectation through the lens of midlife and mothering.
Episode 1: Why I’m Launching This Podcast
Welcome to Midlife Mayhem & Magic! In this first episode, I share why I’m hitting record, messy bits and all. From perimenopause and parenting to PTSD, business, and neurodivergence, this is the space where we stop pretending it’s all fine and start talking honestly.
No filters. No scripts. Just real conversations about the mayhem and the magic of midlife.
Follow me on Instagram @iamjodiemclean