The invisible woman still leaves quite a gap when she disappears.

You might not have seen her smoothing your path this morning, ensuring clean clothes, full bellies, and petrol in cars. She paid bills, kept WiFi flowing, Netflix streaming, remembered gym renewals and doctor's appointments—putting herself last on every list.

Until she doesn't.

When the invisible woman packs her bags and buggers right off, suddenly her space becomes blindingly clear.

Meet Monique van Tulder—mum, wife, woman who forgot to live her life. She took a grown-up gap year, went to change lightbulbs, and didn't return for months. Her sons call it "the time mum got mad and took off." She calls it life-changing—saving her marriage by renegotiating it entirely.

You can find Monique's book A Grown Up's Gap Year here and her podcast here. 

THE END BITS: 

Mamamia wants to hear about your financial wellbeing and how you're feeling about the future. Complete our short survey here for a chance to win a $1,000 gift voucher in our quarterly draw! 

Share your feedback! Send us a voice message or email us at [email protected] 

Follow us on Instagram @MidbyMamamia or sign up to the MID newsletter, dropping weekly here. 

CREDITS:

Guest: Monique van Tulder

Host: Holly Wainwright

Senior Producer: Tahli Blackman

Group Executive Producer: Naima Brown

Audio Producer: Tina Matolov

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you felt it? That relentless tick-tock to get everything done, achieved, and properly ticked off before some looming birthday makes you officially... what? A failure? Someone who missed the memo about how life is supposed to unfold?

Known to many as the graceful, empathetic MasterChef judge, Melissa Leong's memoir Guts reveals the deeper, complex woman behind the screen.

But in this conversation, she opens up about choosing not to have children, the pressure to marry before 35, and shares her empowering guide to confidently dining alone and ordering whatever you want, no apologies.

You can follow Melissa on Instagram and find her memoir Guts here. 

THE END BITS: 

Mamamia wants to hear about your financial wellbeing and how you're feeling about the future. Complete our short survey here for a chance to win a $1,000 gift voucher in our quarterly draw! 

Share your feedback! Send us a voice message or email us at [email protected] 

Follow us on Instagram @MidbyMamamia or sign up to the MID newsletter, dropping weekly here. 

CREDITS:

Guest: Melissa Leong

Host: Holly Wainwright

Senior Producer: Tahli Blackman

Group Executive Producer: Naima Brown

Audio Producer: Tina Matolov

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You know Paula Joye as someone who ran Australia’s biggest women’s magazines—and as the expert in skincare, style, and wellness that she undoubtedly is. But today? We're not talking about glossy covers or celebrity interviews. Today, Paula is sharing the story that breaks us all open - losing your mum.

Two years ago, an ordinary Tuesday night became the night that split Paula's life into 'before' and 'after'. In this conversation, she's opening up about that phone call, the impossible reality of learning to exist without the person who literally made you, and why grief feels different when you're stuck in the middle - caring for everyone else while falling apart yourself.

This is about the messy, complicated reality of mourning whilst keeping your public face on. About how loss completely rewrites your priorities. And how Paula found the strength she didn't even know existed.

You can follow Paula Joye on Instagram and find her beauty book Glow Up here.

THE END BITS: 

Mamamia wants to hear about your financial wellbeing and how you're feeling about the future. Complete our short survey here for a chance to win a $1,000 gift voucher in our quarterly draw! 

Share your feedback! Send us a voice message or email us at [email protected] 

Follow us on Instagram @MidbyMamamia or sign up to the MID newsletter, dropping weekly here. 

CREDITS:

Guest: Paula Joye

Host: Holly Wainwright

Senior Producer: Tahli Blackman

Group Executive Producer: Naima Brown

Audio Producer: Tina Matolov

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dr Stacy Sims knows more about women's fitness than pretty much anyone we've ever spoken to.

She's the exercise expert who went viral for her breakfast routine, but that's just the beginning. Dr Sims is an exercise physiologist and nutritional scientist who's become the go-to authority for grown-up women navigating fitness in 2025.

In this conversation, Stacey shares why so much mainstream fitness advice is complete bullshit for women. She explains how ice baths, fasting, and soul-crushing cardio weren't designed for female bodies, and why "shrinking and pinking" men's advice doesn't serve us.

You're going to hear about the surprising differences between male and female physiology, why women aren't just "small men" when it comes to health, and what we actually need to feel vibrant and strong. Plus, yes, she'll reveal that famous breakfast that caught the internet's attention.

You can follow Dr Stacy Sims here and find out more about her work here. 

THE END BITS: 

Mamamia wants to hear about your financial wellbeing and how you're feeling about the future. Complete our short survey here for a chance to win a $1,000 gift voucher in our quarterly draw! 

Share your feedback! Send us a voice message or email us at [email protected] 

Follow us on Instagram @MidbyMamamia or sign up to the MID newsletter, dropping weekly here. 

CREDITS:

Guest: Dr Stacy Sims

Host: Holly Wainwright

Senior Producer: Tahli Blackman

Group Executive Producer: Naima Brown

Audio Producer: Tina Matolov

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Hello MID friends, while you're awaiting our new season which launches on 7th October, we've got something great for you to listen to.... 

Claire and Dr Mariam are here with Mamamia's women's health podcast, Well. This special episode is about the myths and misinformation surrounding hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and the discussion around what we now know about HRT, and if it’s a safe way to manage peri and menopause symptoms.

Love what you hear?

Follow Well in your podcast app — new episodes drop EVERY THURSDAY. Just search Well, tap '+ follow', and you’re set.

ON THE POD  

What do we now know about HRT and is it a safe way to manage peri/menopause symptoms? We go to Med School to find out if an ear piercing could help to relieve migraines. And in our Quick Consult, we help listener Meg with her ‘bleedy bottom’ haemorrhoid problem. 

In this episode, we talk to Professor Rodney Baber, to unpack the myths and misinformation around Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), now commonly referred to as MHT (Menopause Hormonal Therapy). 

We discuss the infamous Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) 2002 study, which caused widespread fear around HRT/MHT and breast cancer, and explore what we know now about the safety of HRT/MHT.

Plus, why Gen X and Millennial women are approaching menopause differently from previous generations.

THE END BITS

Started HRT and felt worse? It's not in your head. Check out this Instagram reel. 

All your health information is in the Well Hub.

For more information on perimenopause and menopause, Dr Mariam recommends the Australian Menopause Society website. You can download their symptom score sheet here.

You can also find information relating to the topics discussed in this episode at the Endocrine Society and the International Menopause Society.

GET IN TOUCH

Sign up to the Well Newsletter to receive your weekly dose of trusted health expertise without the medical jargon.

Ask a question of our experts or share your story, feedback, or dilemma - you can send it anonymously here, email here or leave us a voice note here.

Ask The Doc: Ask us a question in The Waiting Room.

Follow us on Instagram and Tiktok.

Support independent women’s media by becoming a Mamamia subscriber.

CREDITS

Hosts: Claire Murphy and Dr Mariam

Guest: Dr Sonia Davison 

Senior Producers: Claire Murphy, Sasha Tannock and Sally Best

Audio Producer: Scott Stronach

Video Producer: Julian Rosario

Social Producer: Elly Moore

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Information discussed in Well. is for education purposes only and is not intended to provide professional medical advice. Listeners should seek their own medical advice, specific to their circumstances, from their treating doctor or health care professional.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of No Filter, Kate Langbroek sits down with Mel Robbins, the woman who has turned life advice into a global movement. Mel’s journey from nearly losing everything to becoming one of the most influential voices in self-help is nothing short of remarkable. She’s built a brand, a business, and a worldwide following—and she’s here to share the lessons that could help you take control of your own life.

Mel opens up about the struggles that shaped her biggest insights, explains her ‘Let Them’ theory and how it can change the way you approach your life, and shares how she transformed advice into a business and a global movement. She also reveals practical tips to stop overthinking and start living, and exclusively for Australian and New Zealand fans, Mel shares some huge news you won’t want to miss.

If your life feels messy, chaotic, or overwhelming, this episode is packed with insights and strategies to help you get out of chaos mode—and start living on your terms.

THE END BITS:

Listen to more No Filter interviews here and follow us on Instagram here.

Discover more Mamamia podcasts here.

Feedback: [email protected]

Share your story, feedback, or dilemma! Send us a voice message, and one of our Podcast Producers will get back to you ASAP.

Rate or review us on Apple by clicking on the three dots in the top right-hand corner, click Go To Show then scroll down to the bottom of the page, click on the stars at the bottom and write a review

CREDITS:

Guest: Mel Robbins

Host: Kate Langbroek

Executive Producer: Naima Brown

Senior Producer: Bree Player

Audio Producer: Jacob Round

Video Producer: Josh Green

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Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

And Just Like That… it's over.

Welcome to the MID view of the end of the Sex and the City universe — forever.

She's been our problematic friend for 27 years now, hasn't she? Carrie Bradshaw, with her impossible shoes and even more impossible romantic choices.

But the truth we always knew? Carrie was never meant to be aspirational. She was meant to be us. Messy, self-absorbed, making terrible decisions in great outfits. She mirrored our romantic disasters, our ambition, our fear of aging — and somehow made it all look glamorous.

But now? It’s time to put down the mirror and walk away.

This special drop is inspired by a story by Holly Wainwright on Mamamia

THE END BITS: 

Want to win a $10 e-gift card AND a Mamamia subscription FREE for 1 month? Fill out this short survey. T&Cs apply. 

Mamamia wants to hear about your financial wellbeing and how you're feeling about the future. Complete our short survey here for a chance to win a $1,000 gift voucher in our quarterly draw! 

Share your feedback! Send us a voice message or email us at [email protected] 

Follow us on Instagram @MidbyMamamia or sign up to the MID newsletter, dropping weekly here. 

CREDITS:

Host: Holly Wainwright

Senior Producer: Tahli Blackman

Audio Producer: Jacob Round

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this season of MID, we are answering the dilemmas and questions that you, our listeners, have sent us.

This episode is all about midlife friendships—how to navigate both new and old ones. Our guest, psychologist Clare Rowe, has plenty of experience dealing with the complexities of friendships. She's got a story about an experience with a friendship breakup—one you’ll be glad didn’t happen to you.

The dilemmas that Clare & Holly tackle in this episode are:

• One of my good friends has started being awful, but she says Perimenopause is the reason for all her outbursts. Do I believe her and work through it, or do I walk away? 
• My ex-best friend and I drifted apart 10 years ago, but I find myself missing her a lot. Should I accept this friendship is in the past or try to reconnect? 
• I can't stand my friend's political opinions. Do I distance myself from the whole group? Or do I say we just can’t talk politics?  

Find out more about Clare's work here.

THE END BITS: 

Want to win a $10 e-gift card AND a Mamamia subscription FREE for 1 month? Fill out this short survey. T&Cs apply. 

Mamamia wants to hear about your financial wellbeing and how you're feeling about the future. Complete our short survey here for a chance to win a $1,000 gift voucher in our quarterly draw! 

Share your feedback! Send us a voice message or email us at [email protected] 

Follow us on Instagram @MidbyMamamia or sign up to the MID newsletter, dropping weekly here. 

CREDITS:

Guest: Clare Rowe

Host: Holly Wainwright

Executive Producer: Naima Brown

Senior Producer: Tahli Blackman

Audio Producer: Jacob Round

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this season of MID, we are answering the dilemmas and questions that you, our listeners, have sent us.

This episode is all about divorce and separation—when it might be the right choice, what typically leads to it, and how to navigate it in the healthiest way possible. Our guest, Nikki Parkinson, has been through a divorce herself—an especially unique one—and now dedicates her work to helping others through their own journeys.

The dilemmas that Nikki & Holly tackle in this episode are:

• I have fallen out of love with my husband, but I don't know if I can afford life without him. What do I do?
• I’ve been divorced for almost two years, and my ex wants to introduce his new partner to our children. I think it's too soon, but he thinks I'm being jealous. Should he respect my wishes? 
• I’m having an affair with someone I met at work, and the sex is amazing. Do I have to tell my husband? 
• How do I know it’s really over with my partner of six years—my first same-sex relationship—when she says she’s unsure, has moved out, but still calls and comes back? 

You can find out more about The Divorce and Separation Hub at the links below. 

Website

Instagram

Facebook

Podcast

THE END BITS: 

Mamamia wants to hear about your financial wellbeing and how you're feeling about the future. Complete our short survey here for a chance to win a $1,000 gift voucher in our quarterly draw! 

Share your feedback! Send us a voice message or email us at [email protected] 

Follow us on Instagram @MidbyMamamia or sign up to the MID newsletter, dropping weekly here. 

CREDITS:

Guest: Nikki Parkinson

Host: Holly Wainwright

Executive Producer: Naima Brown

Senior Producer: Tahli Blackman

Audio Producer: Jacob Round

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this season of MID, we are answering the dilemmas and questions that you, our listeners, have sent us.

This episode is all about our relationship with our faces and what the treatments and tweakments out there are doing to our faces. Our guest is the perfect person to guide us through this minefield: Dr Naomi, a doctor who's been refreshingly honest about her own facial work and runs a clinic offering all kinds of beauty treatments.

The dilemmas that Dr Naomi & Holly tackle in this episode are:

• I am very tempted to fix some of the things that are making me sad when I look in the mirror. How much do anti-aging procedures cost? Can I justify the money? 
• I want to get tweaks, but my partner would be so disappointed in me if I did. Is it okay to hide it from my partner? 
• My partner is 10 years younger than me, and I look SO much older than him. What are the most effective, not too obvious procedures to "freshen me up"? 

You can follow Dr Naomi here and find out more about her clinic work here. 

THE END BITS: 

Mamamia wants to hear about your financial wellbeing and how you're feeling about the future. Complete our short survey here for a chance to win a $1,000 gift voucher in our quarterly draw! 

Share your feedback! Send us a voice message or email us at [email protected] 

Follow us on Instagram @MidbyMamamia or sign up to the MID newsletter, dropping weekly here. 

CREDITS:

Guest: Dr Naomi McCullum

Host: Holly Wainwright

Executive Producer: Naima Brown

Senior Producer: Tahli Blackman

Audio Producer: Jacob Round

Mamamia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the Land we have recorded this podcast on, the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation. We pay our respects to their Elders past and present, and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.