Midlife is a crossroads where caring for others can come at our own expense. This reflective episode dives into the burnout that can follow and challenges the old labels of selfish and selfless. Is there a healthier middle ground? Join us as we explore what women really need - to find a new language and to start considering the concepts of the middle ground - self-care, self-love, and self-compassion. If you’re ready to reframe care as a sustainable act of kindness toward yourself, this is the podcast for you.
How likely are you to put others first? Take the Four Tendencies Quiz, which I use with many of my clients: https://gretchenrubin.com/quiz/the-four-tendencies-quiz/
Listen to the previous episode on this topic by Melanie White: https://melaniejwhite.com/episode-71-selfish-vs-selfless/
Melanie and Pharmacist Therese Loo explore personalised health care for women in midlife. In this episode, they discuss how DNA testing and blood panels combined with science-based health coaching can deliver individualized strategies that fit each person’s unique biology and life circumstances. They examine how genetic predispositions interact with lifestyle factors to influence health outcomes, emphasizing that genetics offer insights but environmental and dietary changes can profoundly impact longevity and well-being. The conversation highlights how we are all unique, it's time to move past the one-size-fits-most approach, and to take a holistic and personalised approach to help each woman optimise health during menopausal transitions. By addressing inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, and other midlife challenges through personalised nutrition and targeted support services, we can turn information into insights and practical, everyday health decisions.
Connect with Therese:
Learn more about DNA testing: pharmacistedit.com/dnatesting
Listen to my podcast on DNA testing: pharmacistedit.com/tldna
Subscribe for new articles and wellness updates: pharmacistedit.com/subscribe
And to every listener - if you’re curious about whether DNA analysis could be your missing piece, I offer a free 30-minute Health Chat to explore if this approach fits your goals. It’s simply a conversation to clarify, not commit. https://pharmacistedit.com/work-with-me
Melanie and Michelle explore how where you live shapes your fitness journey. In this episode, they discuss access to exercise in remote areas, with Michelle sharing her firsthand experiences teaching fitness in rural Victoria and highlighting the prominent role of community sports in these regions. They discuss the unique challenges women in rural areas face when returning to physical activity after leaving team sports - balancing family duties and limited access to resources. The conversation wraps with practical strategies to boost physical activity in remote areas, emphasising community support, creative and accessible workout ideas, and the exciting potential of connecting distant towns through shared fitness activities. Whether you’re in a rural town or just curious about rural health, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiration.
Connect with Michelle:
Email: michelle@findyourfitt.com.au
Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61577855840309
This episode dives into identity changes and the unique challenges women face in midlife as physical and hormonal shifts reshape how they see themselves and their roles in society. Melanie shares candid insights on menopause and declining estrogen that can temporarily affect confidence and sense of capacity, while reframing this period as a chance for personal reinvention and fresh self-definition. Listeners will come away with practical strategies for navigating midlife transitions—balancing logical thinking with emotional awareness, rediscovering passions, and building supportive networks while adapting health and wellness routines to thrive. Key topics: - Understanding identity shifts in midlife - The impact of menopause and hormonal changes - Reframing midlife as a path to reinvention - Practical strategies: balancing logic with emotional awareness - Rediscovering passions and interests - Building and leaning on supportive networks - Designing sustainable health and wellness habits.
Read Our Blog: Navigating the Midlife Crisis
For information on Sage's Identity Project - Helping Midlife Women Rediscover their Authentic Selves, contact us using the General Enquiries button on our Contact Page https://www.sagewomenshealth.com/contact
Melanie White chats with Amanda Kube, a former educator turned wellness coach, about the unique mental health challenges women face in regional and rural areas. This episode dives into midlife anxiety, the impact of isolation, limited access to support services, and the social pressures that can compound stress in rural and remote communities. They explore the power of self-compassion and strategies to break generational patterns of concealing health issues. Practical solutions take the spotlight, including how telehealth, professional coaching, and supportive GP care can make a difference. The conversation also highlights the need for better education and awareness around menopause and midlife transitions. A thoughtful, down-to-earth discussion for women navigating health and wellbeing in regional Australia.
Connect with Amanda: https://www.wellnesswithamanda.au
Women in rural Australia face significant barriers to accessing specialist healthcare. Today, nurse and health coach Celeste Cleary from Flourishing Wellness outlines the key challenges in depth, from the scarcity of medical services to social and cultural barriers that disproportionately affect women, and the critical need for patient empowerment. We'll unpack how technology, particularly telehealth, is playing a vital role in bridging the gap, and share some resources to help women in regional Queensland - including how Celeste's workshop on Tough Conversations can help people find their voice.
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/celestecleary
Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/CelesteCleary/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/celestecleary_
Celeste's "Tough Conversations Workshop" outline
Interview for Capricornia Chamber of Commerce (5 min YouTube)
True Relationships & Reproductive Health Outreach
Queensland Rural, Regional and Remote Women's Network
In this episode, we’re joined by Shannan White (AEP, AES, ESSAM), an Accredited Exercise Physiologist and Exercise Scientist based in Broulee, NSW. Shannan brings a wealth of experience in managing injuries and chronic conditions, and is on a mission to transform women’s health care through evidence-based, holistic approaches.
We discuss the unique health challenges faced by women in regional areas, Shannan’s passion for improving care experiences in both allied health and sport, and her innovative, tailored bone health program she delivers to help women build strength and resilience. This is a powerful conversation about bridging the gap in rural health, rethinking how we support women across the lifespan, and creating meaningful change at the community level.
Contact Shannan: https://balancehf.com.au
Follow Shannan @drift.exercisephysiology
Find an Exercise Professional Near You - https://www.essa.org.au
Post-natal depression and then early menopause threw nutritionist and health coach Lauren for a loop, but it also sparked a journey of self-discovery. Join us as she shares her powerful story, revealing how she embraced a holistic approach to tame her symptoms and reclaim her well-being.
We'll dive into the surprising impact of stress and nutrition on reproductive health, and Lauren will arm you with practical strategies, from breathwork to lifestyle tweaks, to navigate perimenopause and beyond. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking self-awareness, education, and open communication to thrive during menopause and beyond!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/health_with_lauren/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lauren.zagami/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-conneely-a841027/
Download Lauren's 8 Simple Protein-Packed Breakfast Recipes: https://mailchi.mp/healthwithlauren/simple-protein-packed-breakfasts
Today Zeina El Jamil shares her powerful and inspiring story of navigating breast cancer and early surgical menopause. From the challenges of treatment and recovery to overcoming cultural barriers, Zeina shares her personal journey with raw honesty and unwavering strength. Discover how she embraced exercise, prioritised self-care and found solace in community support to manage her menopause symptoms and reclaim her wellbeing. Zeina's experience ignited a passion within her, leading her to become a coach and advocate for women's health. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking guidance, inspiration, and practical tips for navigating menopause, understanding the importance of open conversations, and leveraging the power of community support to thrive through health challenges.
Connect with Zeina: https://au.linkedin.com/in/zeinaeljamil
Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or questioning your worth in midlife? You’re not alone. In this episode, we sit down with Jill Ogle, an integrative coach helping women reclaim their power by overcoming imposter syndrome and healing from autoimmune conditions through self-love and acceptance.
Jill shares her own story and offers practical tools to move through people-pleasing, the mental load of midlife, and the pressures of social media. Learn how journaling, intrinsic motivation, and professional support can unlock deep personal transformation.
Tune in to discover how to reconnect with your authentic self and thrive through menopause and beyond.
https://www.jillogle.com/
https://www.instagram.com/lovejillogle
https://www.facebook.com/lovejillogle
https://www.facebook.com/groups/jillogle
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillogle/
https://www.youtube.com/@jillogle
https://www.tiktok.com/@lovejillogle
Today, Melanie White interviews health coach Gina Gruber, uncovering the unique hurdles women face in meeting their health needs, and considerations for working with women in rural and remote communities. From beliefs and cultural norms to limited access, we explore how to make real change through small steps, tailored support, and building trust within existing networks. Listen to empower yourself and the women around you!
Connect with Gina
www.vibrancehc.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-grubbe-026ba914/
In this episode, we speak with Christine Garde-Denning, Founder and CEO of CouldYou?, about her mission to end period poverty through sustainable, scalable innovation. Christine shares how the FDA-registered CouldYou? Cup - a menstrual cup designed specifically for resource-limited settings - is restoring dignity, health, and opportunity to women and girls around the world. With nearly 200,000 cups distributed across 15 countries, this 10-year solution is transforming lives for just $10 per person. We explore the systemic barriers to health, education, and economic independence - and how Christine’s global partnerships and grassroots approach are creating lasting change.
Learn more about this important, change-making global movement:
https://www.instagram.com/couldyoucup/
https://www.facebook.com/couldyoucup
https://www.youtube.com/@couldyou262
https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-garde-denning-b362848/
Feeling overwhelmed by menopause and weight gain? Winnie Kok, a mountain climber, leadership expert, and wellness coach, shares her proven strategies for navigating this challenging time. Learn how to harness the power of mindfulness, self-care, and resilience to achieve your weight loss goals and build a fulfilling life. This episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration to help you conquer your own mountains.
Connect with Winnie:
Instagram: genesis.pw
LinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/in/winniekok
In this episode, Jess Taylor from QENDO shares her personal journey with endometriosis and explores how the condition intersects with perimenopause and menopause.
We dive into the complex impact of endometriosis on the body, the importance of early diagnosis, and the challenges many women face in accessing proper care. Jess also highlights QENDO’s long-standing mission since 1988—offering support, advocacy, and education for those affected.
Whether you're seeking answers, support, or awareness, this conversation is a powerful reminder that you're not alone.
Get Support: http://qendo.org.au/
QENDO Care: https://www.qendo.org.au/qendocare
QENDO Community Volunteers: https://www.qendo.org.au/volunteer/expression-of-interest
Have you reached a point where personal growth feels incompatible with your current relationship? Are you a woman in midlife contemplating a significant transition? We interview Sallyanne Harnell from Reflect Coaching for a deep dive into the complex, non-legal aspects of divorce, exploring how hormonal changes, life events, and the desire for a more authentic life can lead to separation. We'll discuss the vital importance of self-reflection, prioritising your needs, and embracing change as you navigate the emotional landscape of divorce. Discover how to reclaim your agency, find freedom, and prioritise your personal wellbeing. Are you ready to take control of your life and create a future that truly reflects your desires?
Connect with Sallyanne:
https://bio.site/reflect_coaching
Are you a woman ready to rewrite the rules of aging? Join Melanie and Nick, founders of Sage, as they explore the empowering world of longevity. In this episode, they dive into the science and secrets of a healthy, vibrant life, especially during menopause. Discover how lifestyle changes, genetic insights, and a mindset shift can help you reinvent yourself and thrive for years to come. Learn to embrace the future of work, retirement, and the power of connection. This is your guide to an Empowered Aging.
Connect with Nick and take his FREE Longevity Mindset Course:
https://www.instagram.com/nickengerer/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-nick-engerer/
https://www.youtube.com/@alongerlife
In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Michael Liebman, a leading voice in personalized medicine, to explore how data, disease modeling, and global collaboration are reshaping women’s health. From breast cancer to menopause, Dr. Liebman explains why current approaches fall short—and how more accurate, individualized risk profiles can unlock safer, smarter care.
Discover what it will take to move beyond “one-size-fits-most” healthcare and what his groundbreaking research could mean for the future of women everywhere.
Learn more about Dr Liebman's work: https://ipqanalytics.com/
In this episode, Sarah and Melanie dive deep into the social brain—a critical yet often overlooked aspect of women's health. They explore the science behind sex differences in the brain, the remarkable plasticity of the female brain, and the transformative changes that occur during pregnancy. With a focus on evidence-based insights, they discuss the importance of science-first communication in women’s health and why individual experiences matter when improving health outcomes. Join them for a thought-provoking conversation that challenges misconceptions and highlights the power of thoughtful, research-driven discussions.
Connect with Sarah: https://drsarahmckay.com
Take Sarah's free micro course in neuroscience https://drsarahmckay.com/free-micro-course/
Nurse Director Joanne Reid shares initial findings from her PhD research on the experiences of nurses and midwives navigating menopause in the workplace. She discusses the challenges of menopause symptoms, their impact on work performance, and the critical need for better support systems. Jo highlights her study within Western Australia's North Metropolitan Health Service and explains why retaining experienced staff is essential for high-quality patient care. With a deep passion for human connection and storytelling, Jo explores how her research could shape healthier, more inclusive workplaces for current and future generations.
Today's guest Bridget (Bee) Pennington dives deep into the transformative power of self-care, self-reflection, and mindfulness as essential tools for managing stress and navigating life’s inevitable changes. We also explore how simple, consistent practices like meditation and breathwork can recalibrate our nervous systems, helping us find calm amidst the chaos, and how to get started. We’ll discuss the profound impact of choosing positive thoughts and how this mindset shift can empower us during challenging times. Additionally, we’ll tackle the menopause narrative, uncovering ways to rewrite it into a more positive and uplifting experience. Tune in for actionable insights and inspiring stories that will guide you on your journey to a healthier, more balanced life!
Connect with Bee
Melbourne Functional Medicine: mfm.au
Bee's personal website: beepennington.com
Instagram: @bee_pennington
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-bee-pennington/