In this episode, I’m joined by my fellow (very talented) TV-watching buddy, Mandy Newman, as we compare notes on what we’ve been watching in the first half of 2026. 

The rules are simple: the shows don’t have to have been released in 2026 — they just have to be things we’ve watched during the first six months of the year. And, importantly, Mandy and I don’t discuss our lists beforehand. We save them up, come to the microphone, and reveal our favourites to each other on air. 

Which is always fun, sometimes surprising, and this time came with one slightly horrifying revelation: I watch an absolutely terrifying amount of television. 

We talk about the shows we loved, the ones that completely sucked us in, the performances that stayed with us long after the credits rolled — and, just as importantly, the shows we simply could not bring ourselves to finish. The ones we started with the best of intentions and then quietly abandoned because life is too short to keep watching something you’re not enjoying. 

There’s crime, romance, family drama, documentaries, comfort viewing, international series and a fair bit of disagreement along the way. 

Among the shows and documentaries that came up were Industry, the Kylie documentary, the Melania documentary, The Madison, Vera, I Will Find You, The Stranger, Criminal Record, Silent Witness, Love Is Blind: Poland, Your Friends & Neighbours, Sweet Magnolias, Virgin River, The Chestnut Man and Strife — plus a few more honourable mentions thrown in for good measure. 

Some are beautifully written, some are deeply addictive, some are perfect comfort TV, some we absolutely adored — and some we gave up on completely. 

As always, the conversation ends up being about more than television. We talk about why certain stories land at different ages and stages, how our tastes change over time, the characters we connect with, and why a great series can sometimes be exactly what you need at the end of a long day. 

And if nothing else, you should come away from this episode with a very healthy list of things to watch next — and perhaps a little reassurance that it is perfectly okay to stop watching something when it’s just not doing it for you. 

Settle in, grab a cup of tea or a glass of wine, and join Mandy and me for our favourite watches from the first half of 2026. 

Lots of love,
 Alex x 

PS - If you’ve watched something brilliant lately, send it my way. Mandy and I are always looking for the next show to add to the list — apparently we have plenty of viewing hours available. 

Chapters 

00:00 — The Rules: What We’ve Been Watching in 2026 

02:05 — The Shows We Started… and Just Couldn’t Finish 

04:01 — Kylie, Documentaries & Pop Culture 

06:00 — Our Top TV Picks from the First Half of the Year 

08:59 — The Performances We Couldn’t Stop Talking About 

11:59 — Love, Loss, Family & the Shows That Stay With You 

15:01 — Crime, Comfort TV & Completely Different Tastes 

17:54 — Honourable Mentions and More Shows Worth Watching 

21:00 — The Terrifying Truth: Just How Much TV Have We Watched? 

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The Longevity Conversation Every Woman Needs to Have with Dr. Ginny Mansberg 

What if the most important decisions you make for your future health aren't the dramatic ones—but the small choices you make every single day? 

This week I'm joined by one of Australia's most trusted GPs and health experts, Dr. Ginny Mansberg, to discuss her brilliant new book, The Women's Longevity Handbook, and the science behind living not just longer, but better. 

There is so much noise around menopause, aging and longevity that it can be difficult to know where to focus your energy. Should we be worrying about our hormones? Our brain? Our heart? The latest supplement? The newest wellness trend? 

Drawing on the latest research from The Women's Longevity Handbook, Dr. Ginny helps us cut through the confusion with practical, evidence-based advice that every woman can apply. We explore the health risks many of us underestimate, the everyday habits that have the greatest impact on our health span, and why it's never too late to make meaningful changes. 

Along the way, we talk about heart disease, brain health, the gut microbiome, cancer prevention, and the simple lifestyle choices that can help us stay healthier, stronger and more vibrant for decades to come. 

Because perhaps longevity isn't really about adding years to your life. 

Perhaps it's about adding life to your years. 

Whether you're navigating perimenopause, well into menopause, or simply thinking about the future, I know you'll come away from this conversation feeling informed, empowered and reassured. 

Alex xx 

Main Topics Covered 

• The biggest lessons from The Women's Longevity Handbook
• Why heart disease remains the number one killer of women
• The lifestyle habits that have the greatest impact on healthy aging
• What really happens to the brain during perimenopause and menopause
• Reducing your risk of stroke and dementia
• The fascinating role of the gut microbiome in overall health
• Why fibre may be one of the most powerful nutrients for longevity
• Lifestyle changes that can help reduce cancer risk

Resources & Links
 

• The Women's Longevity Handbook by Dr. Ginny Mansberg
• The M Word by Dr. Ginny Mansberg
• Save Your Brain by Dr. Ginny Mansberg
• ESK Skincare
• Website: https://www.drginni.com.au
• Instagram: @drginni

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Yesteryear: Tradwives, Time Travel and the Performance of Modern Womanhood 

What if the life you've always dreamed about wasn't quite what you imagined? 

Yesteryear has become one of the most talked-about books of the year, captivating readers with its thought-provoking premise while sparking passionate conversations about motherhood, marriage, feminism, social media and the growing tradwife movement. 

In this episode, I'm joined by a good friend of The Grown-Up Girls Report, Mandy Newman. Mandy is an author, a teacher, and a fabulous thinker. I absolutely love talking books with Mandy because she's incredibly thoughtful, asks brilliant questions, and always notices things I've completely missed. It's so lovely to have her back. 

Together, we unpack Caro Claire Burke's debut novel and explore why it has struck such a chord. We discuss the rise of tradwife influencers, the pressure to perform our lives online, and whether we're really longing for the past—or simply searching for certainty, community and meaning in an increasingly complicated world. 

Along the way, we explore the novel's biggest ideas, the questions it raises about modern womanhood, and why it has resonated so strongly with readers around the world. 

Because perhaps Yesteryear isn't really a novel about time travel at all. 

Perhaps it's a story about the roles we play, the expectations we carry, and the versions of ourselves we present to the world. 

Whether you've already read Yesteryear or you're simply curious about the conversations surrounding it, we'd love you to join us. 

Alex xx 

Main Topics Covered 

• Why Yesteryear became one of the year's biggest books
• Caro Claire Burke's inspiration for the novel
• The rise of the tradwife movement and why it resonates with so many women
• Natalie: heroine, villain or victim?
• Motherhood, marriage and the invisible expectations placed on women
• The impact of social media on identity and authenticity
• Performance versus reality in our online and offline lives
• The novel's themes of nostalgia, faith, feminism and modern womanhood
• Why Yesteryear has generated such passionate discussion among readers
• The question at the heart of the novel: Does life influence the performance, or does the performance eventually become life? 

Timestamps 

00:00 – Welcome back and today's book club discussion
 00:45 – Introducing Mandy Newman
 02:15 – Why Yesteryear has become such a cultural phenomenon
04:45 – Meet the author: Caro Claire Burke
08:00 – What exactly is a tradwife?
12:00 – The premise of Yesteryear
16:00 – Natalie: heroine, villain or victim?
22:00 – Motherhood, marriage and impossible expectations
27:30 – Social media, performance and authenticity
32:30 – Feminism, faith and modern womanhood
36:30 – Why readers have connected so strongly with Yesteryear
40:00 – Final thoughts, ratings and recommendations 

Resources & Links 

• Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke
• Hannah Neeleman from Ballerina Farm
• Nara Smith
• Devil in the Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke (Disney +) 

Key Takeaways 

• Consider the roles you perform in your own life—and whether they reflect who you really are. 

• Ask yourself whether we're longing for the past, or simply for more certainty, connection and simplicity. 

• Reflect on how social media shapes the way we see ourselves and one another. 

• Remember that behind every carefully curated life is a far more complicated human story. 

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Have you ever felt like you'd lost your spark—but couldn't quite explain why?

After months of illness, fatigue, and feeling like I'd lost a little of myself, I found myself asking a simple question: how do I get my energy back?

In this episode, I share my journey through recovery, trying to look after a family, getting a new business (Nancy The Label) up and running, and why I decided to try a 30-day cold-water challenge as an experiment in my search for more energy... and a little more life.

Because energy isn't really about getting more done.

It's about having the capacity to engage with the people, experiences, and moments that make life feel bigger. 

Here's to finding a little more energy... and a little more life.

Alex xx

Main Topics Covered

• How energy is about more than productivity—it's about engaging with life
 • Why low energy doesn't always mean depression
 • The impact of illness, menopause, stress, and caregiving on vitality
 • Building Nancy The Label while navigating fatigue and recovery
 • My experience with a 30-day cold-water challenge
 • The behavioural shift from conserving energy to saying yes again
 • The power of keeping a promise to yourself
 • Reclaiming spontaneity, connection, and joy in midlife

Timestamps

00:00 - Welcome back and episode overview
 00:40 - How illness made my world feel smaller
 01:26 - The importance of energy beyond motivation and ideas
 02:39 - Common midlife energy concerns among women
 03:20 - Managing energy and small life changes
 03:59 - Differentiating depression from energy depletion
 04:33 - The impact of illness on plans and identity
 05:09 - How energy influences social life and spontaneity
 05:53 - Re-conceptualizing energy as time with loved ones
 06:17 - When protecting energy feels like disappearing
 06:29 - The emotional toll and identity shifts
 07:27 - Building Nancy The Label amidst low energy
 08:01 - The disconnect between mind and body
 08:13 - Frustration and desire to recover spark
 08:54 - Women’s common energy narratives
 09:07 - Causes of energy drain: menopause, stress, caregiving
 10:12 - The core desire for more life, connection, and enthusiasm
 11:19 - Proactive steps for managing recovery
 12:11 - My cold plunge therapy experiment
 13:14 - How cold water therapy sparked hope and focus
 14:24 - The tangible benefits observed so far
 15:25 - The value of keeping promises and building momentum
 16:11 - Physical and behavioural improvements from the challenge
 17:22 - An ongoing journey, not final results
 17:56 - Recognising progress and resilience
 19:02 - A behavioural shift: saying yes to life again
 21:15 - Celebrating small wins in social and personal life
 22:38 - The power of commitment and experimentation
 23:19 - The real goal: more connection, spontaneity, and joy
 24:18 - Invitation to reflect and share your energy solutions

Resources & Links:

• Nancy the Label - Fashion Brand
• My 30-Day Cold-Water Challenge 
• Cold Water Therapy Benefits
• Chill: The Cold-Water Swim Cure

Connect With The Grown-Up Girls Report

• Instagram 
• Facebook

Key Takeaways

• Consider one small experiment that might support your energy
 • Reflect on what activities give or drain your energy
 • Make a promise to yourself to try one small change today
 • Focus on reclaiming more of your life, not just productivity

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In this episode, I’m joined by my fellow talented TV watcher buddy Mandy Newman and we share our top TV shows of 2025. But apart from sharing our top watches with you, we also get a little deep (and honest) and share why TV mattered for us in 2025. 

We talk about why certain shows landed so deeply this year, what they say about the season of life we’re in, and how television can sometimes meet us exactly where we are. From stories of grief and reinvention to humour, relationships, faith, power, and identity, this conversation explores how good storytelling can help us make sense of our own lives. 

In addition to sharing our Top 5 shows of the year, we also include quite a few honourable mentions, and reflect on themes that kept appearing — particularly women’s stories, emotional honesty, and the quiet reassurance that comes from feeling seen. 

This episode is for anyone who’s found comfort in a familiar show at the end of a long day, who’s noticed how their viewing habits have shifted over time, or who is simply on the look out for something fab to watch! 

So, settle in and join us — and as always, we’d love to hear what stayed with you this year. 

Lots of love
Alex x 

Summary 

In this episode, Alex and Mandy reflect on the role television played in their lives throughout 2025 — not just as entertainment, but as a source of comfort, connection, and insight. Through an honest, wide-ranging conversation, they explore how storytelling can mirror real life, help us process grief and change, and spark meaningful conversations about identity, relationships, faith, power, and personal growth. 

 The discussion highlights the growing representation of women’s stories on screen, the emotional impact of vulnerability in storytelling, and the quiet reassurance that comes from feeling seen. This episode celebrates television as a deeply human medium that can offer both escape and understanding. 

Key Takeaways 

Television can provide genuine comfort and a sense of connection. 

What we’re drawn to on screen often reflects the season of life we’re in. 

Women’s stories and perspectives are increasingly visible in modern media. 

Grief, identity, and relationships are common themes in recent storytelling. 

Representation in media influences how we see ourselves and others. 

Humour can be a powerful way to explore serious themes. 

Stories about women and power remain deeply relevant. 

Television can spark meaningful conversations about society and culture. 

Chapters 

00:00 — The Therapeutic Power of Television 

08:02 — Comfort Watching & Emotional Connection 

12:20 — Motherhood, Work, and Identity 

15:00 — Comfort TV vs Gripping TV 

22:51 — Celebrating Age, Talent, and Visibility 

24:04 — Faith, Relationships, and Belief 

30:45 — Women, Power, and Representation 

32:42 — The Healing Power of Humour 

43:29 — Reflections on Aging and Storytelling 

45:34 — Finish 

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 Midlife Reinvention, One Dress at a Time 

A personal reflection on midlife reinvention, creativity, and building a fashion brand in your second chapter. 

In this episode, I’m reflecting on midlife reinvention — and sharing my own story. This is a very honest catch-up, where I share where I’ve been, what the past season has held, and why it’s taken me a little while to return to the microphone. 

I open up about launching Nancy The Label — a business born from legacy, creativity, and a deep desire to create something meaningful in this second chapter. I share the excitement, the fear, the self-doubt, and the moments of courage that came with starting again. 

This episode is for anyone who’s felt the nudge to change direction, who’s wondered if it’s too late, or who’s standing on the edge of something new and slightly terrifying. Reinvention is rarely neat or linear — and that’s okay. 

So, settle in and join me — I hope this conversation reminds you that you’re not behind, you’re not alone, and it’s never too late to begin again. 

Lots of love
 Alex x 

Chapters 

00:00 The Journey of Reinvention Begins 

05:24 Launching Nancy the Label 

12:00 The Challenges of Midlife Reinvention 

16:05 Rediscovering Identity in Midlife 

18:49 Embracing Change and New Beginnings 

20:04 Finish 

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Episode Description

In this episode, I am joined by Cassandra Kalpaxis, a family lawyer, domestic violence educator, and author – and we talk about financial independence for women and the concept of a ‘Dignified Divorce’.

Now, every woman needs to listen to this episode, even if things in the relationship arena are ‘tickety-boo’ because this episode is all about protecting yourself - just in case. Cassandra explains the importance of financial knowledge for women, the importance of understanding one’s rights and the concept of escape funds.

She outlines how to have an amicable separation, how to achieve a ‘Dignified Divorce’ and how to successfully co-parent. She is also a big fan of ‘pre-nups’ – so listen in to hear why.

In addition to being a lawyer, Cassandra is also a passionate Domestic Violence advocate. Her insights into the various forms of coercive control and the ‘generational lens’ on this is really compelling. 

This is a really thought-provoking interview that I guarantee you’ll learn a lot from. Cassandra’s practical advice and empowering messages are all about women claiming their independence and make informed decisions about their lives and relationships.

Cassandra’s book Dignified Divorce is available for sale here. As she says – it’s cheaper than a consultation!

Alex xx

Resources

Dignified Divorce – available here.

The Domestic Violence Legal Service – a specialist free legal service for women experiencing domestic and family violence in New South Wales. There are similar services available in every state in Australia.

Connect with Cassandra

Instagram: @cassandrakalpaxis 

Website: calpaxuslegal.com.au

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dignified Divorce

01:55 Cassandra's Journey: From Lawyer to Author

05:20 Navigating Economic Vulnerability in Relationships

08:46 Understanding Financial Infidelity and Abuse

10:40 The Importance of Escape Funds

14:23 Creating a Dignified Divorce

18:06 The Role of Communication in Separation

22:40 Navigating Conflict Resolution in Relationships

26:24 Understanding Prenuptial Agreements

31:20 Educating on Domestic Violence

39:33 Exiting Unhealthy Relationships

42:40 Empowerment and Financial Independence

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Connect with Cassandra

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cassandrakalpaxis/ 

Website: calpaxuslegal.com.au

Resources

Dignified Divorce – available here.

The Domestic Violence Legal Service – a specialist free legal service for women experiencing domestic and family violence in New South Wales. There are similar services available in every state in Australia.

Connect with Cassandra

Instagram: @cassandrakalpaxis 

Website: calpaxuslegal.com.au

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Episode Description

In this episode, I’m chatting with Aussie journalist and health advocate Shelly Horton about her perimenopause journey and her new book ‘I’m Your Peri Godmother’. Shelly’s honest and candid recount of her challenges and struggles will confirm that you are absolutely not navigating this journey alone. And I guarantee it will make you both laugh and cry!

Shelly details her unexpected health complications and her mental health struggles – struggles that I also experienced. She is passionate about the need for further awareness and education about women's health issues in the workplace and is a big advocate for a shift in how society views midlife women. Hear, hear!!!

And while we discuss the challenges, we also celebrate the bonuses that the menopause journey can bring – zest!!

So, tune in, join the conversation – I guarantee that it will fill your tank!!

Shelly’s book is out now. You can buy it here. 

Lots of love

Alex x

Keywords

perimenopause, mental health, women's health, advocacy, workplace awareness, relationships, self-care, empowerment, menopause, health education

Takeaways

·       Waking up in the ICU was a shocking experience for Shelly.

·       Perimenopause can lead to unexpected mental health challenges.

·       Women often minimise their health issues and apologize for their struggles.

·       Support from family and friends is crucial during health crises.

·       Advocacy for women's health is essential in the workplace.

·       Education about perimenopause can help women manage their symptoms better.

·       Menopausal zest is about embracing life and prioritizing self-care.

·       Women should not feel invisible during midlife; they have so much to offer.

·       It's important to seek help and not suffer in silence.

·       Finding the right support and resources can lead to empowerment. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Shelley Horton

01:34 Shelley's ICU Experience and Health Journey

09:18 Women’s Apologies and Humor in Crisis

11:56 The Impact of Perimenopause on Confidence

15:43 Mental Health and Perimenopausal Depression

23:12 Conversations with Family about Mental Health

24:07 Bonding Through Shared Stories

26:59 Navigating Family Dynamics and Mental Health

28:41 The Role of Partners in Mental Health

31:45 Understanding Menopause Symptoms

36:48 Sleep and Its Impact on Well-being

40:38 Advocacy for Women in the Workforce

43:12 Raising Awareness in the Workplace

45:27 Menopause Education and Support

46:48 The Business Case for Supporting Women

49:09 Personal Health Journeys and Mindset

53:25 Embracing Menopausal Zest

53:38 Menopausal Zest

57:14 The Launch of 'I'm Your Peri Godmother'

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Episode Description

In this episode, we’re workshopping perimenopause and menopause with one of the best GPs in Sydney (my GP) Dr Nindhi Ahilan. Nindhi’s incredible guidance through my murky menopause journey is the reason why I have got my life back! 

So, with Nindhi’s help, we delve into the science behind perimenopause and menopause, discuss HRT, alternative treatments and supplements that might be worth considering. Nindhi also share some great resources for us too!

Now, if your bloke is struggling to understand what’s going on in your world, this would be the perfect listen for him! It will get him on board!!

So, tune in and I promise you’ll come away with some great to-do list – I even added to mine after recording this!

Lots of love

Alex x

Keywords

menopause, perimenopause, hormonal changes, HRT, symptoms, women's health, estrogen, progesterone, natural remedies, health tips

Takeaways

·       Menopause is defined as the absence of periods for 12 months.

·       Perimenopause can last between 2 to 10 years before menopause.

·       Estrogen and progesterone play crucial roles in women's health.

·       Common symptoms include hot flushes, sleep disturbances, and mood changes.

·       HRT can improve quality of life but has associated risks.

·       Healthy lifestyle choices can mitigate menopausal symptoms.

·       Alternative remedies include phytoestrogens and anti-inflammatory diets.

·       Menopause is a unique opportunity for personal reinvention.

·       Partners should educate themselves about menopause to provide support.

·       Women should trust their intuition and prioritize self-care during menopause.

Resources

The Australasian Menopause Society

Dr Louise Newson

Dr Ginni Mansberg

How To Thrive in Menopause by Dr Ginni Mansberg

The Menopause Brain by Lisa Mosconi

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Menopause and Perimenopause

01:59 Understanding Menopause: Definitions and Differences

03:38 Is Perimenopause a New Concept?

04:27 The Role of Estrogen and Progesterone

07:22 Common Symptoms of Menopause

11:31 Identifying Menopause Symptoms vs. Other Conditions

13:37 Understanding HRT - the Risks & Benefits

17:13 HRT: Timing and Individual Considerations

20:23 Quality of Life and Preventative Health in Menopause

20:54 Alternatives Treatments to HRT

24:02 Understanding Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Options

24:47 Natural Supplements  for Menopausal Symptoms

26:00 Addressing Vaginal Health and Libido Issues

27:49 Managing Urinary Symptoms and Anxiety

29:43 Cognitive Health and Skin Care During Menopause

31:07 Hair Loss and Thinning: Causes and Solutions

32:17 Advice for Blokes To Help Support  Their Partners in Menopause

33:53 Reframing Menopause: A Time for Reinvention

37:10 Menopause Resources

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In this episode of The Grown Up Girls Report podcast, host Alex Merton-McCann is joined by fellow TV lover Mandy Newman in a lively discussion about various TV shows through the eyes of middle-aged women. These include Ransom Canyon, The Empress, Unforgotten, Sullivans Crossing & The Kardashians. They explore themes of female empowerment, character development and the nuances of popular entertainment. The conversation also touches on the cultural impact of shows like The Kardashians, highlighting the complexities of modern storytelling and audience engagement.

Takeaways

There's been a lot of television watched since the last episode.

Ransom Canyon is a hidden gem that resonates with female viewers.

The Empress offers a historical perspective on women's struggles and empowerment.

Unforgotten is a sensitive British procedural that explores human dilemmas.

The Kardashians, while often dismissed, provide insights into family dynamics and personal growth.

B-grade Netflix films serve a purpose in modern entertainment.

Character development is crucial in engaging storytelling.

The portrayal of women in media is evolving and becoming more nuanced.

Viewers appreciate shows that reflect their own messy lives.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome - it's 3 1/2 years - far too long!!

01:41 Ransom Canyon

05:56 The Role of The B Grade Netflix Series

09:43 Character Development in Ransom Canyon

10:21 Sullivans Crossing

10:55 Minka Kelly & Ransom Canyon

14:37 Sullivans Crossing - again!

16:24 The Empress: A Historical Drama

18:12 Exploring the Life of Empress Elizabeth

22:40 Diving into British Procedural Drama: Unforgotten

29:11 What Not To Wear - Mandy's current watch

30:36 The Kardashians - Alex's current watch

Keywords: TV shows, Ransom Canyon, The Empress, Unforgotten, Sullivans Crossing, What Not To Wear, streaming recommendations, female leads, Netflix, British drama, The Kardashians, character development

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