Mad With The Menopause

Joyce is passionate about empowering women to live their best lives through good health and happiness. Her latest book, Your Joyful years – is out on now on Amazon and is an Amazon Best seller.

Joyce is an internationally renowned award winning scientist and is a professor of reproductive science at University College London, Institute for Women’s Health. 

Her last book, Your Fertile Years: what you need to know to make informed choices, published in2021, explores women’s health from puberty to menopause. In her latest book, Your Joyful Years: empowering good health and happiness beyond 50, Joyce shares the wisdom of 50 women over the age of 50, on good health and happiness.

Her podcast, ‘Why didn’t anyone tell me this?’  is listened to in over 90 countries and is ranked in the top 10% of podcasts globally.

KEY TAKE AWAYS:

00:00 - Navigating the Journey of Menopause

03:11 - The Joyful Years of Menopause

10:47 - The Importance of Exercise and Consistency

17:56 - Personal Experiences and Education

20:34 - Sharing Stories and Building Community

26:36 - Finding Joy in Life

USEFUL RESOURCES:

Website:  https://joyceharper.com/

Books:  Your Fertile Years: What you need to know to make informed choices &

Your Joyful Years: Empowering good health and happiness beyond 50, 

Instagram:  @profjoyceharper

ABOUT THE HOST:

Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources, and the Third Sector.

This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.

Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.

CONTACT ME:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/

E-mail:  [email protected]

Our guest today is a leading voice in the ADHD community, specifically for women and girls. Kate Moryoussef is an acclaimed author, and the host of the globally top-ranked podcast, The ADHD Women’s Wellbeing Podcast.

After her own late diagnosis, dedicated her career to helping women move past the shame and overwhelm that often follows a diagnosis, focusing instead on radical self-compassion and holistic wellness. She is here to help us rethink how we live with and thrive with ADHD.

KEY TAKE AWAYS:

00:00 - Introduction and Background

00:12 - Realization of ADHD and Its Impact

02:33 - The Journey to Diagnosis

05:04 - Understanding the Diagnosis

06:41 - Stigma and Societal Perceptions of ADHD

09:04 - Transitioning to Advocacy and Awareness

11:21 - Writing the Book and Podcasting Journey

13:32 - Personal Insights and Practical Advice

14:49 - Navigating ADHD and Lifestyle Medicine

16:24 - Hormonal Changes and ADHD

18:06 - Understanding Perimenopause and ADHD

20:49 -The Intersection of Hormones and Mental Health

24:11 - Self-Advocacy and Education for ADHD

27:01 - Resources and Support for Women with ADHD

USEFUL RESOURCES:

Book: The ADHD Women’s Wellbeing Toolkit

Website: https://www.adhdwomenswellbeing.co.uk/

Podcast:   The ADHD Women’s Wellbeing Podcast.

Instagram:  @kate_moryoussef

ABOUT THE HOST:

Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources, and the Third Sector.

This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.

Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.

CONTACT ME:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/

E-mail:  [email protected]

Delighted to be speaking to Rebecca Penny, an Independent Financial Advisor, who helps women feel confident and in control of their finances during perimenopause and menopause, a life stage she is navigating herself, making her advice both relevant and relatable.

With over 25 years’ experience, Rebecca understands how menopause can affect careers, confidence and earning potential, often leading to career breaks, reduced hours and significant pension gaps. Yet this financial impact is rarely talked about.

Rebecca is one of the only advisers openly speaking about this overlooked issue. A trusted

media voice, she has appeared on radio and podcasts and has been featured in national

publications, sharing practical, jargon-free financial guidance that empowers women to

protect their financial future.

KEY TAKE AWAYS:

00:00 - Introduction to Menopause and Financial Planning

02:20 - The Intersection of Menopause and Financial Awareness

05:06 - Rebecca's Journey in Finance and Corporate Life

08:03 - Navigating Symptoms and Career Changes

10:56 - Starting a New Chapter: Setting Up a Financial Firm

12:32 - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in a New Role

13:26 - Practical Financial Advice for Women

15:43 - Redefining Retirement and Financial Independence

19:35 - The Importance of Comprehensive Financial Planning

25:08 - Understanding Financial Behaviours and Patterns

26:56 - Navigating Financial Conversations and Mindsets

29:49 - Creating a Positive Spending Plan

32:56 - Engaging with Financial Guidance and Resources

USEFUL RESOURCES:

https://www.retirementlivingstandards.org.uk/

https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/office-of-the-public-guardian

https://planitfinancial.co.uk/

Instagram:  @menopausemoney

ABOUT THE HOST:

Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources, and the Third Sector.

This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.

Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.

CONTACT ME:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/

E-mail:  [email protected]

In today’s episode, I am delighted to welcome Victoria Brookbank, a workplace wellbeing specialist and trained psychotherapist with over a decade of experience. As the founder of Minds That Work and co-founder of MenoMinds, Victoria bridges the gap between psychological expertise and corporate strategy. Victoria is dedicated to helping leaders build resilient cultures and supporting women navigating menopause in professional life.

KEY TAKE AWAYS:

00:00 - Introduction and Personal Experiences

03:09 - Journey into Menopause Awareness

06:00 - Understanding Symptoms and Mental Health

09:13 - Emotional and Psychological Impact

11:59 - Community and Support Systems

15:01 - Navigating Strategies and Mindfulness

15:27 - Navigating Business Challenges and Personal Struggles

16:53 -The Golden Triangle: Self-Compassion, Community, and Gratitude

19:04 - Healthy Lifestyle Choices for Resilience

20:20 - Empowering Women Through Menopause Education

22:34 -Interactive Training and Community Support

25:19 - Strategies for Managing Menopause and Mental Health

26:42 - Embracing Change: Growth Through Menopause

29:37 - Changing the Narrative Around Aging and Wisdom

USEFUL RESOURCES:

Minds That Work: https://mindsthatwork.com/

MenoMinds: https://www.menominds.co.uk/

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-brookbank-81089a125

ABOUT THE HOST:

Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources, and the Third Sector.

This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.

Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.

CONTACT ME:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/

E-mail:  [email protected]

In today’s episode, I am delighted to welcome Dr Christina Papadopoulos, a GP, nutrition advisor, and British Menopause Society–accredited practitioner, with a special interest in perimenopause, energy, and burnout. Through both her clinical work and lived experience of perimenopause, she supports women who feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and unheard to better understand their changing bodies and rebuild energy using evidence-based lifestyle approaches.

KEY TAKE AWAYS:

00:00 - Introduction

02:50 - Christina's Journey Through Perimenopause

05:56 - Experiencing Burnout as a GP

09:00 - Recognising the Signs of Perimenopause

12:01 - The Role of Nutrition in Recovery

14:58 - Transforming Eating Habits for Better Health

17:59 - Practical Breakfast Choices for Sustained Energy

19:12 - Exploring Nutrition: A Personal Journey

22:02 - Strategies for Navigating Perimenopause

26:36 - Consultation Insights: Supporting Women Through Change

USEFUL RESOURCES:

Instagram: @drchristinapap

ABOUT THE HOST:

Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources, and the Third Sector.

This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.

Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.

CONTACT ME:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/

E-mail:  [email protected]

In today’s episode, I am delighted to welcome founder of ‘Menopause and Cancer’, Dani Binnington.

We are diving into a vital yet often overlooked intersection of women’s health: the journey of menopause after cancer.  Dani turned her own life-altering cancer diagnosis at age, just 33 into a mission to ensure no survivor feels like part of a 'forgotten tribe.'

Dani is the founder of the UK’s only non-profit dedicated specifically to this cause, the host of the globally top-ranked The Menopause and Cancer Podcast, and the author of the #1 bestselling book, Navigating Menopause After Cancer.

A passionate advocate, impactful speaker, and a self-described ‘thinking partner’ for women navigating the medical system, Dani brings both evidence-based strategies and deep personal compassion to the table.

KEY TAKE AWAYS:

00:00 - Introduction to Dani Binnington

00:39 - Personal Journey Through Cancer and Menopause

03:22 - Discovery of Breast Cancer

05:25 -Navigating Medical Menopause

10:45 - Finding Empowerment Through Research

13:43 - Establishing Support for Others

15:55 -The Menopause and Cancer Podcast

16:36 -The Importance of Wellbeing

17:14 -Creating a Community for Support

18:09 -Menopause and Cancer: A Unique Challenge

20:15 -Understanding Long-Term Symptoms

23:23 -Hormone Replacement Therapy: Access and Awareness

25:35 -Resources and Support for Women

26:56 -The Journey of Writing a Book

29:08 -Advice for Patients and Supporters

USEFUL RESOURCES:

Instagram: @dani_binnington

Podcast:  https://menopauseandcancer.org/podcast/

Book:  https://menopauseandcancer.org/book/

ABOUT THE HOST:

Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources, and the Third Sector.

This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.

Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.

CONTACT ME:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/

E-mail:  [email protected]

In today’s episode, I am speaking with Emma Neville, Founder of the online community ‘This is me’.

Emma experienced an early menopause, aged just 40, after being diagnosed with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI).

Receiving this diagnosis encouraged Emma to research the topic and to gain an understanding of the phases of menopause. Subsequently, Emma then studied to become a menopause coach.

Emma started an online community 'This is Me’ to share her story and to encourage everyone to talk about menopause and ultimately to change the rhetoric.

KEY TAKE AWAYS:

00:00 - Introduction and Initial Thoughts

00:03 -Understanding Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI)

02:48 - Recognizing the Signs and Seeking Help

06:06 - The Emotional Impact of Diagnosis

11:24 - Exploring Causes and Awareness of POI

13:17 - Building a Supportive Community

18:18 - Building Connections Through 'This is Me'

19:47 - The Emotional Journey of Sharing Stories

21:33 - Celebrating Community and Empowerment

24:04 - Embracing Change and Personal Growth

28:41 - Lifestyle Changes After Diagnosis

32:03 - Finding Balance and Self-Care Strategies

33:53 - Encouragement for Women: You're Not Alone

USEFUL RESOURCES:

Instagram: @emmanevillethisisme

ABOUT THE HOST:

Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources, and the Third Sector.

This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.

Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.

CONTACT ME:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/

E-mail:  [email protected]

In today’s episode, Professor Pooja Saini, professor at Liverpool John Moores University discusses with us, the link between our hormones and our mental health.

KEY TAKE AWAYS:

Understanding Emotional Symptoms of Menopause

Research Insights on Menopause and Suicide

The Role of Hormones in Mental Health

Challenges in Medical Diagnosis and Treatment

Personal Experiences with HRT

Research Findings on HRT and Mental Health

Qualitative Insights from Women on Menopause

The Importance of Choice in HRT

Training Gaps in Medical Professionals

Support Systems for Suicidal Individuals

Crisis Support and Community Resources

Stigma and the Importance of Open Conversations

Advocacy for Women in Mental Health

Self-Care and Holistic Approaches

Practical Strategies for Mental Wellbeing

Community Engagement and Finding Purpose

Final Thoughts on Seeking Help and Support

USEFUL RESOURCES:

https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/

https://hubofhope.co.uk/

Instagram:  @poojauk

ABOUT THE HOST:

Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources, and the Third Sector.

This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.

Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.

CONTACT ME:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/

E-mail:  [email protected]

In today’s episode, Anél talks briefly about some of the symptoms that can be expected as we enter Perimenopause.

KEY TAKE AWAYS:

Understanding Perimenopause

Navigating the Challenges:  Symptoms and Solutions

USEFUL RESOURCES:

Symptom checker:  https://themenopausecharity.org/information-and-support/symptoms/menopause-symptom-checker/ 

ABOUT THE HOST:

Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources, and the Third Sector.

This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.

Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.

CONTACT ME:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/

E-mail:  [email protected]

Instagram: @anel.quilliam

DISCLAIMER: 

The views of mine and those of my guests are just that. I therefore urge you to take advise from your medical practitioner, who knows your medical history and can therefore provide advice specific to your needs.

Tile Art by:  Shawn Bennett (Rockingham Media CIC)

Dr. Helen Wall is a Senior GP Partner, GP Trainer in Bolton, and runs an NHS menopause clinic with a particular interest in the crossover of ADHD and hormones, including why symptoms of ADHD often magnify during perimenopause and menopause.

Dr. Helen is dedicated to helping women who are being diagnosed with ADHD later in life, and those who feel their hormonal symptoms are dismissed or misdiagnosed as anxiety or mood disorders.

Look out for Dr. Helen’s forthcoming book, (out in 2026) Menopause and ADHD, explores this intersection.

Dr. Wall is well-known as the resident GP on BBC Breakfast and a columnist for Woman magazine.

KEY TAKE AWAYS:

Understanding ADHD:  A Neurodevelopmental Disorder

The Impact of Perimenopause on ADHD Symptoms

Recognising ADHD Symptoms in Women

The Positive Aspects of ADHD

Navigating the Diagnosis Process of ADHD

Navigating GP Consultation for ADHD

Practical Steps for Managing ADHD

Medication and Its Role in ADHD Management

Supporting Women with ADHD and Menopause

Resources and Community Support for ADHD

USEFUL RESOURCES:

Website:  https://adhduk.co.uk/

Good Read:  The ADHD Women’s Wellbeing Toolkit by Kate Moryoussef

Instagram:  @doctorhelenwall

Website:  https://tvhealthdoctor.com/

ABOUT THE HOST:

Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources, and the Third Sector.

This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.

Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.

CONTACT ME:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/

E-mail:  [email protected]

Instagram: @anel.quilliam

DISCLAIMER: 

The views of mine and those of my guests are just that. I therefore urge you to take advise from your medical practitioner, who knows your medical history and can therefore provide advice specific to your needs.

Tile Art by:  Shawn Bennett (Rockingham Media CIC)