S2. Ep 13. Challenging the Stereotypes Around Older Women with Journalist & Motorhome Adventurer, Siobhan Daniels

International Women’s Day is that time of year when we come together to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women. This year’s theme is choose to challenge, because with challenge comes change. Today’s guest is a brilliant example of this, because she’s passionate about challenging ageism and redefining the narrative around older women. And she’s certainly set about changing things!  I’m speaking to Siobhan Daniels, a 61-year old ex-BBC journalist with a fascinating story. She’s given up her home and is travelling solo around Great Britain in a motorhome in a bid to challenge the stereotypes around retired women and have some fun and adventures along the way. Although her odyssey has been rudely interrupted by lockdown, she’s simply parked up in a field and she’ll be on the move again as soon as the rules allow. “Ageless fearless women, that’s what we are!”, she says and she certainly lives up to that impressive description. We discuss ageism in the workplace and Siobhan’s frustration at the sense that younger colleagues were writing off women over-50 as old, which fuelled her determination to change the dialogue around ageing.  Her motorhome adventure has given her a new-found sense of freedom, but it hasn’t been without its challenges and she explains the new skills she’s learned – from filling up the water tank and manoeuvring her large vehicle to increased resilience and confidence. She shares her fascinating story from her triumphant departure and her initial travels to the challenges of lockdown and motorhome living.  It’s very empowering chatting  to Siobhan, and I’m already experiencing itchy feet! She’s a real inspiration to us to step up and become the ageless fearless women she’s convinced that we are, so I hope this interview gives the impetus to think about an adventure of your own, be it small or large.  If you've enjoyed this episode, please leave a 5-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts or whichever platform you listen on, as it really helps to spread the word, so that new listeners can find the show. Because every woman deserves to have a happy menopause.  Check out the full Show Notes for this episode on my website www.well-well-well.co.uk/podcast, where you'll find all the relevant links and references for my guest.

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