Two Women Chatting

In this enlightening episode of Two Women Chatting, Michelle is joined by psychologist, author and wellbeing expert Suzy Reading to share her top tips for improving sleep and embracing the winter season. Suzy offers practical advice on how to prioritise self-care, create a sleep-friendly routine and even find joy in the colder, darker months. From yoga nidra to gut health, Suzy explains how these often-overlooked factors can make a world of difference in how we sleep and thrive.

Key Insights: 

🎙️Selfishness vs. Self-Advocacy: Suzy discusses the misconception of selfishness when it comes to prioritising personal wellbeing. She explains the importance of advocating for yourself and taking time to rest and recharge, particularly when it comes to sleep.

🎙️The Power of Consistency in Sleep Hygiene: A regular sleep routine is crucial for good rest. Suzy shares unexpected tips, like incorporating muscle relaxation exercises and practising yoga nidra, to help calm your mind and body before bed.

🎙️Gut Health and Its Impact on Sleep: Gut health plays a significant role in your overall wellbeing and sleep quality. Suzy explains how what you eat and when you eat can affect your rest, offering practical advice on improving gut health for better sleep.

🎙️Surviving and Thriving in Winter: Winter doesn’t have to be something we just “get through.” Suzy introduces the concept of going into “hibernation mode” as a way to embrace the season, with tips for creating cozy, restful routines that help you not only survive but thrive during the colder months.

Enjoyed this episode? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop us a line at [email protected] and leave us a review on your favourite podcast platform.

Episode Resources:

• Suzy Reading’s New Book: Self-Care For Winter – Learn how to care for your body, mind, and spirit throughout the winter months.
• Follow Suzy on Instagram: @SuzyReading for more tips on wellbeing and self-care.

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Tune in for this insightful episode, Top Tips on Sleep and Finding the Bright Side of Winter, and learn how to create restful routines, prioritise your wellbeing, and discover joy even during the winter months.

sleep, midlife, challenges, caring, nurturing, modern life, stimulation, busyness, self-care, relaxation, consistency, regularity, rest, wakefulness, diet, gut health, exercise, yoga, calming practices, HRT, probiotics, magnesium spray, rest, self-care, winter

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In this heartwarming episode of Two Women Chatting, Michelle is joined by ‘instagram poet’ and author Donna Ashworth to explore the transformative power of poetry, vibrant colours and the bravery women show in everyday life, especially in midlife. Donna shares her personal journey from blogger to celebrated poet, discussing how creative expression can heal and uplift. She also treats listeners to a live reading of one of her powerful poems from new book Growing Brave, showcasing how poetry can connect and inspire women. Together, they dive into topics like embracing colour for a positive mindset, finding courage in daily choices and the importance of acceptance.

Key Insights:

🎙️ Dopamine Dressing for a Brighter Outlook: Donna introduces “dopamine dressing” — the idea that wearing bold, vibrant colours can instantly elevate your mood and mindset. Something as simple as a bright outfit can have a huge impact on how you feel and move through the day.

🎙️ Bravery in Everyday Life: Bravery doesn’t always mean facing big, dramatic events. Donna and Michelle talk about how women show courage in small, everyday actions—whether it’s through resilience, kindness, or self-care.

🎙️ Neurodiversity and hyper empathy: Donna shares how she deals with the ADHD chaos of thoughts, not allowing herself to be 'gaslit' by her inner voice - and how she connects spiritually to the energy of others both past and present.

🎙️ Healing Through Acceptance: Accepting your emotions—whether they’re from anxiety, grief, or daily stresses—helps foster healing. Donna explains how writing can be a powerful tool for self-discovery and talks about the emotional connection between generations of women.

Enjoyed this episode? We’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop us a line at [email protected] and leave us a review on your favourite podcast platform.

Episode Resources:

Donna Ashworth's Poetry Collections: Explore Donna’s books, which celebrate the strength, resilience, and beauty of women, available on major online retailers.

Insta: @donnaashworthwords 

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Join us for this inspiring episode, Growing Brave, where we celebrate the joy of colour, the quiet acts of everyday bravery, and the power of poetry to connect women across generations.

Donna Ashworth, poetry, bravery, empowerment, midlife women, mental health, colour therapy, energy connection, acceptance, anxiety, hyper empathy, neurodiversity, ADHD, manifesting, inner voice

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In this captivating episode of Two Women Chatting, Michelle sits down with the beloved Coronation Street star Sue Cleaver to explore her deeply personal journey and her new book, A Work in Progress. Sue opens up about the complexities of her life, from being adopted and always feeling a bit different to her experiences of resilience, rebellion, and self-discovery. This episode is a heartfelt conversation about ageing positively, embracing who you are and finding joy in life’s second act.

Key Insights: 

🎙️Navigating Life as an Adoptee: Sue discusses how being adopted shaped her identity, making her feel different even though her family always loved and supported her. Her rebellious spirit helped her navigate the challenges of feeling othered and searching for belonging.

🎙The Power of Connection: An almost unbelievable coincidence resulted in Sue finding her birth mother and revealed a family history steeped in the world of acting, bringing Sue’s life full circle. Introducing her birth mother to her adopted mother created a beautiful, extended family, underscoring the power of love and connection.

🎙Embracing Midlife and Beyond: Sue shares her journey of questioning long-held beliefs, including her relationship with alcohol during the pandemic. By embracing curiosity and the three principles of mind, consciousness, and thought, she found freedom and trained as a therapist with a renewed sense of purpose.

Enjoyed this conversation? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Drop us a line at [email protected], and don’t forget to leave us a review on your favourite podcast platform.

Episode Resources:

Sue Cleaver's New Book: A Work in Progress

Discover more about Sue's personal journey of resilience, self-discovery, and the profound moments that shaped her life. Available at all major bookstores and online retailers.

Instagram: @official_suecleaver

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Join us for this inspiring episode with Sue Cleaver, where we explore ageing positively and the power of embracing every chapter of life!

Sue Cleaver, Coronation Street, adoption, feeling different, rebelliousness, resilience, becoming a mother, working as a nanny, serendipitous meeting, birth mother, acting, belonging, othered, alcohol, pandemic, freedom, thoughts, beliefs, three principles, mind, consciousness, thought, joy, midlife

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Michelle Ford is back with more inspiring chats, heartfelt stories, and laughter-filled moments in Season 8 of Two Women Chatting!

Coming up, Michelle will be welcoming incredible guests, including Coronation Street star Sue Cleaver, who opens up about her new book A Work In Progress. Sue opens up about the complexities of her life, from being adopted (and her incredible story of finding her birth mother), always feeling a bit different, to her experiences of resilience, rebellion, and self-discovery. This episode is a heartfelt conversation about ageing positively, embracing who you are, and finding joy in life’s second act - with behind-the-scenes stories, life lessons and what it's like to be part of such an iconic TV show.

Michelle also sits down with the brilliant Donna Ashworth, whose new book Growing Brave encourages us to embrace our inner strength and courage through her poetry beloved by millions.

Three clues to one of Michelle's celebrity guests: she loves chunky jewellery, wears fab bright colours and is a dab hand at a Victoria sponge. You'll have to wait for announcements to see who will be joining TWC to chat about visibility and confidence as we age. Follow on instagram @michelleford_twc or Facebook for an announcement very soon!

But that's not all! Stay tuned as we explore important topics like brain health, caring for elderly parents, and strategies to improve our sleep. You won't want to miss these insightful conversations that could make a real difference in your life.

And if you're in the mood for some adventure, Michelle shares a thrilling story about a pirate rescue that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It's a tale of bravery, resilience, and the power of the human spirit.

Plus, she'll be discussing how to find the bright side of winter, the importance of adding strength training to our health routine to future proof our health with Kate Rowe-Ham, and the power of breathwork for overall well-being. These are topics that will empower you to live your best life.

So, grab a cup of tea, find a cozy spot, and get ready to be inspired, enlightened, and entertained. Follow Two Women Chatting podcast on your smart speaker or any platform for conversations that will uplift your spirit and nourish your soul.

Subscribe now so you don't miss a single moment of these engaging discussions.

Thank you for tuning in, and remember, you are never alone in this journey of life. Thanks for being part of the TWC community! 

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In the final episode of Season 7, Michelle sits down with Sara Davison, The Divorce Coach, to discuss the intricacies of navigating divorce in midlife. The conversation delves into the unique challenges faced by individuals during this stage of life and explores why divorce becomes more common, touching on factors such as empty nest syndrome and shifting priorities. Sara offers practical advice on finding a divorce lawyer, managing the cost of divorce, and understanding the different avenues available for ending a marriage.

Key Insights: 

🎙️Divorce in Midlife: Divorce in midlife can be a challenging experience, but there are resources and support available to help individuals navigate this process. Sara emphasises the importance of building a support team and seeking professional advice.

🎙️Choosing the Right Divorce Lawyer: It is important to carefully choose a divorce lawyer who aligns with your needs and goals for the divorce. Sara shares tips on what to look for in a lawyer to ensure a smoother process. You set the tone for the divorce on the type of lawyer you choose.

🎙️Recognising and Addressing Toxic Relationships: Toxic relationships can be difficult to recognize, but it is crucial to take back your power and seek help from domestic abuse charities if necessary. Sara highlights the signs to look out for and steps to regain control.

🎙️Handling Divorce with a Narcissist: We really dig into how to handle approaching a break-up with a controlling or narcissistic partner in the second half of this episode. For anyone experiencing this kind of relationship, Sara’s guidance here for your emotional and physical wellbeing is really valuable.

🎙️Taking Back Your Power: Building a support team of friends, family, and professionals can provide emotional and practical support during the divorce process. Sara also discusses the importance of securing your financial resources and being well-informed about your financial situation.

Love these insights? Share your thoughts and stories at [email protected] and don't forget to rate and review us on your favourite podcast platform!

Episode Resources: 

About Sara Davison: Connect with Sara Davison, known for her expertise in helping individuals through divorce and rebuilding their lives. Website: saradavison.com | Instagram: @saradavisondivorcecoach

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Tune in for an empowering discussion on Divorce with Sara Davison!

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In this episode, Michelle sits down with Jacynth Bassett, a leading pioneer and voice in the anti-ageism movement. Jacynth founded 'Ageism is Never in Style', a global consultancy, campaign, and community dedicated to addressing ageism in all its forms. Join them as they explore the impact of ageism on individuals of all ages and genders, and the intersectionality between ageism and sexism. Jacynth was behind viral campaigns #ILookMyAge #RemoveAntiFromAging viewed 40 million plus times on social media!

Key Insights: 

🎙️The Impact of Ageism: Ageism affects individuals of all ages and genders. Jacynth discusses how ageist narratives and stereotypes permeate society and the importance of challenging these harmful perceptions.

🎙️Ageism at Any Age: Jacynth, being young in the industry, is walking proof that ageism can happen at any age. She shares her personal experiences and the unique challenges she faces as a young advocate in the anti-ageism movement.

🎙️Intersectionality of Ageism and Sexism: Ageism intersects with other forms of discrimination, such as sexism. Jacynth delves into the ways gendered ageism affects women and the need for a more inclusive approach in various industries. 

🎙️Combating Ageism: Self-awareness and informed choices are crucial in combating ageism. Jacynth shares insights on how individuals and industries can become more age-inclusive and the growing appetite for conversations addressing ageism."

Love these insights? Share your thoughts and stories at [email protected] and don't forget to rate and review us on your favourite podcast platform!

Episode Resources: About Jacynth Bassett: Connect with Jacynth Bassett, the founder of 'Ageism is Never in Style' and a leading advocate for age inclusivity. Website: ageismisneverinstyle.com | Instagram: @jacynthbassett

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Tune in for an empowering discussion on combatting ageism in midlife with Jacynth Bassett!

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Do you feel the midlife droop setting in? In this episode, Michelle invites Jo Tuffrey, Pilates instructor and health professional, to discuss the physical and mental changes that occur during midlife. Jo shares her personal experience of going through early menopause and the challenges she faced. She also talks about her journey from being a PE teacher to becoming a Pilates instructor and the development of her online Pilates classes and Menopause Metamorphosis program, helping clients salvage strength and confidence in midlife.

Key Insights: 

🎙️Navigating Menopause: Menopause can have a significant impact on a woman's physical and mental well-being. Jo emphasises the importance of finding supportive communities and resources to navigate this journey, sharing her own experiences and tips.

🎙️The Power of Pilates: Pilates is a versatile exercise discipline that can benefit individuals of all ages and fitness levels. Jo highlights how it provides strength, flexibility, and relaxation, and discusses the significance of Pilates for bone health and weight-bearing exercises. 

🎙️Overcoming Social Media Pressures: Jo delves into the challenges of comparison on social media and the ever-changing landscape of the fitness industry. She stresses the importance of having confidence in oneself, setting boundaries, and prioritising mental health.

🎙️Supporting Others and Self-Care: Making people feel good is a rewarding aspect of any profession. Jo shares the value of supporting others in business, especially women, and the importance of being kind to yourself, overcoming imposter syndrome, and taking a holistic approach to midlife well-being.

This episode is sponsored by Sarah Haran Handbags; for versatile bags you can adapt for any occasion. Get 25% off your first Sarah Haran bag, plus three free restyle accessories by going to their website www.sarahharan.com and using code TWC24 at checkout.

Love these insights? Share your thoughts and stories at [email protected] and don't forget to rate and review us on your favourite podcast platform!

Episode Resources: About Jo Tuffrey: Connect with Jo Tuffrey, a dedicated Pilates instructor and advocate for holistic fitness and well-being. Website: jotuffrey.com | Instagram: @jotuffrey

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Tune in for an inspiring journey of 'Beating The Midlife Droop' with Jo Tuffrey!

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Do you struggle to find five minutes a day to be calm? In this episode, Michelle sits down with Joanne Mallon, the author and life coach behind 'How to Find Calm in 5 Minutes'. Join them as they delve into the secrets of maintaining composure and finding peace in the midst of life's chaos.

Key Insights:

🎙️ The Reality Behind Appearances: Appearances can be deceiving, so avoid comparing yourself to others and remember that everyone has their own struggles. It’s easy to assume those that appear calm don’t have stress too.  Remember - swan above the water, fast moving legs below!

🎙️ Strategies for Appearing Calm: Discover practical strategies for appearing calm, such as slowing down, taking deep breaths, habit stacking and controlling adrenaline. These simple techniques can make a significant difference in how you present yourself in stressful situations.

🎙️ Gratitude: taking a moment in the shower every day to be thankful for three things or writing a daily gratitude journal for five minutes can have a huge impact on mental health.

🎙️ Manifesting and Taking Action: Explore the concept of manifesting with Joanne, who explains how focusing your attention on what you want to happen and taking action can turn dreams into reality. They also discuss finding calm in a stressful world through small changes like managing phone use and engaging with nature.

Love these insights? Share your thoughts and stories at [email protected] and don't forget to rate and review us on your favourite podcast platform!

This episode is sponsored by Everybudy CBD. Experience relief from midlife discomfort and thrive after menopause. Visit Everybudy.co.uk to explore a selection of CBD products and receive 25% off your first order with code TWC25.

Episode Resources:

About Joanne Mallon: Connect with Joanne Mallon, the life coach and author dedicated to helping individuals find peace and balance in midlife.

Website: joannemallon.com | Twitter: @joannemallon | Instagram: @joannemallon

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Tune in for a serene journey of how to find calm in 5 Minutes with Joanne Mallon!

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In this episode of Two Women Chatting, Michelle and special guest Dawn Dines, founder of Stamp Out Spiking, tackle the serious issue of drink spiking, with a particular focus on its rise among midlife individuals. They explore personal accounts, including a powerful testimony from Michelle's daughter Jemima, who shares her traumatic spiking experience in Singapore. Together, they discuss the importance of awareness and legislative change to better protect victims.

Key Insights:

🎙️ Understanding Drink Spiking: Dawn explains that drink spiking occurs when someone puts something in your system without your consent or knowledge. She emphasises that spiking can happen to anyone, regardless of age or gender. 

🎙️ Recognizing the Signs: Learn to recognize the signs of spiking. Dawn advises, "If you start to feel blurred vision, feel really drunk really quickly, and have an out-of-body experience, then you need to get to a trusted member of staff or a friend quickly."

🎙️ Challenges in Reporting: Many spiking incidents go unreported due to embarrassment or lack of knowledge on how to report them. Dawn and Michelle discuss the need for better awareness and reporting mechanisms to ensure victims are protected and supported.

🎙️ Raising Awareness and Legislative Change: Dawn shares her efforts in raising awareness, training police forces, and advocating for legislative changes to combat drink spiking. She highlights the ongoing nature of this issue, stating, "Drink spiking has been going on for 20 years, which is why I've been personally campaigning for that long."

Love these insights? Share your thoughts and stories at [email protected] and don't forget to rate and review us on your favourite podcast platform!

Episode Resources:

Connect with Dawn Dines, founder of Stamp Out Spiking, and learn more about her campaign. Click here for the TWC blog about spiking and useful resources

Website: stampoutspiking.org | Twitter: @StampOutSpiking | Instagram: @stampoutspiking

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Tune in for an eye-opening episode on 'Rise in Midlife Drink Spiking' with Dawn Dines!

midlife women - podcast - drink spiking - women over 40

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In this episode of Two Women Chatting, Michelle and special guests James and Claire Davis, also known as the Midlife Mentors, explore the challenges and opportunities that come with fluctuating hormones in midlife, with particular reference to andropause and its impact on ageing men. Michelle questions why it is that previously easy going men become stubborn and sometimes downright irritable in midlife - more grumpy 'Victor Meldrew' (the fictional character from BBC's One Foot in the Grave) and less smooth and charming George Clooney!

Together they delve into the importance of embracing ageing positively and taking proactive steps to enhance physical and mental well-being, while understanding each other on a deeper level. Why do so many men experience a midlife crisis? Is there such a thing as the male menopause?

Key Insights:

🎙️ Embracing Ageing: James and Claire emphasise the importance of embracing ageing in a positive way and taking proactive steps to improve physical and mental well-being during midlife. 

🎙️ Understanding Andropause: They discuss andropause, the decline of testosterone in men, and its significant impact on physical and psychological health. Understanding this phase can help in managing its effects more effectively.

🎙️ Managing Andropause: The Midlife Mentors provide practical tips for managing andropause, including maintaining physical fitness, adopting a healthy diet, and cultivating a positive mindset. They highlight, "Address lifestyle factors before considering hormone treatment."

🎙️ Importance of Relationships: Open communication and connection are crucial in relationships during midlife. James and Claire stress the significance of maintaining strong relationships and the role they play in overall well-being.

"Embrace ageing in a positive way and get more from life."

Love these insights? Share your thoughts and stories at [email protected] and don't forget to rate and review us on your favourite podcast platform!

Episode Resources:

About James and Claire Davis: Connect with the Midlife Mentors and learn more about their approach to midlife wellness.

Website: themidlifementors.com | Twitter: @MidlifeMentors | Instagram: @themidlifementors

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Tune in for an insightful episode on 'Grumpy Old Men' with James and Claire Davis!

podcast - midlife women - midlife men - andropause - male menopause - ageing well - grumpy old men - testosterone - decreasing hormones - hormones in men

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