Wise Women Conversations

In this episode of the Menopause Conversations Podcast, I chat with Tantra Intimacy Coach Taryn Harvey about important and often shied away from topics surrounding intimacy, especially post children. Taryn shares her unique journey from pharmaceutical rep to being a Tantra Coach who teaches men and women how to re-connect to their sensuality. We covered a range of topics including:The difference between sex and intimacy.The role of self-love in relationships.Reclaiming your sexuality and sensuality.The shame of talking about intimacy and sex.The definition of Tantra and the misconceptions about it. Healing our wounds as women.Reconnecting with pleasure, especially after having children.Empowering yourself again as a woman.Taryn also offers three simple tips for re-connecting to our sensual energy. To learn more about the work that Taryn does, visit her website tantricmedicinewoman.com or follow her on Facebook and Instagram.

This week's podcast topic is such an important one as we focus on Menopause in the Workplace. For many years the topic of menopause was not discussed in public and certainly was not spoken about in the workplace. In fact, a study showed that when asked, women felt a sense of secrecy, isolation, being too scared to speak up because of the stigma around the topic and being discriminated against. One in four women consider leaving their job when in menopause, yet, more and more menopausal women are in the workplace, so it is so important that we start talking about what is happening to them and find ways to assist them to fulfil their job roles. Women report that their greatest concern at work is their brain fog and inability to retain information, this leaves them fearing that they will lose their jobs and impacts their confidence. This is where my guest Thea O'Connor comes in. Thea's program 'menopause at work' focusses on helping organisation's become menopause-friendly through awareness, education and small

On this week's episode of Menopause Conversations (previously the Wise Women Conversations Podcast) we revisit, what happens to relationships as you move through your menopause years. For some women it is a time of new beginnings, for others it is a time of endings, and some may find relationships challenging so in this episode I chat with Couples Counsellor Iman Iskander to talk through all of this.Iman shares the different stages a relationship goes through and what happens if we happen to get stuck at a particular stage of relationship development. We also talk about women who “stay for the kids” and what happens once their kids are older and no longer dependent on them.Relationships with one person for a lifetime can be hard, but are we really supposed to be with the same person for our entire adult life? This is the question that I ask Iman and she shares different research studies that show whether this is a good thing or not. This leads to a conversation about different cultures and how they see relati

In this episode we delve into an essential conversation for women navigating the peri-menopause and menopause transition and joining us for this conversation is Denise McKenzie. Denise is an ex-nurse and highly experienced Personalised Health Coach, Personal Trainer, Nutrition, Mindset, and Trauma-Informed Coach with over 25 years of expertise in the health and fitness industry.She is passionate about helping women connect authentically with their bodies as they move through this transformative stage of life. As we age, our bodies change, and so do our needs, particularly in maintaining muscle mass and bone health. Just as our experiences with puberty & periods were unique, so is our experience of menopause. Denise will guide us through understanding how to protect our muscle mass, the critical role movement plays in preventing osteoporosis, and how building strength is about more than just eating protein.We'll also explore how to find enjoyable activities, the importance of recovery, and how movement isn

When we see any kind of health professional, we want to receive a personalised approach to our health rather than a standard, general response to concerns. Our health during the menopause transition is no different. In this podcast episode I’ll walk you through Personalised Health, a truly groundbreaking approach to your health, particularly important during this transition. Personalised Health isn’t just another trend; it’s a tailored approach that considers your genes, environment, and lifestyle. It’s about understanding what’s best for your body, based on your unique makeup and circumstances. From the foods you eat to the workouts you do, and even the climate you live in—these factors all influence how you experience menopause. That’s why no two women go through menopause the same way, and why some solutions work wonders for some but not for others.Here’s what makes personalised health so special:It’s Precise: Tailored to you and your body.It’s Predictive: Your genes can reveal potential health risks.It’s

On this weeks special episode of the Menopause Conversations Podcast, I am joined by guest Vanamala Mayr-Reisch, a recent recipient of a Women Changing the World Award.With an extensive knowledge of the body, mind and spirit acquired over 35 years of working with people, Vanamala's focus is empowering women and instilling a positive body image for mental and physical wellbeing. Especially as women age and start to see themselves differently.In 2019, she set the goal to reach as many women as possible with face yoga and help women stop using antidepressants, mutilating cosmetic surgery, and invasive injections.This is a wonderful conversation about:Celebrating women. Putting yourself back on top of your to do list. If you are thinking about botox, fillers or surgery, consider Face Yoga first as a less toxic approach. Having Fun & the positive impact of a simple smile. How to release tension in your face, neck & shoulders, afterall, stress is anchored in your facial mu

Understanding your body's needs can make all the difference as you transition through Menopause and this week’s episode covers two vital nutrients - Antioxidants and Essential Fatty Acids.Discover:What antioxidants and essential fatty acids are, and why they’re crucial for your health.Why women in menopause need more of these nutrients. The best foods to include in your diet and if supplements are necessary.Learn how these powerful nutrients can help you manage menopause symptoms, support hormone balance, support cardiovascular health and protect against chronic & age-related diseases. Tune in now for insights and practical tips to help you thrive!For more information, grab a copy of my free Essential Nutrients to Thriving in Menopause Ebook.

In this episode, we dive into the often-overlooked mineral, zinc, and its significant role in supporting women through menopause. Zinc is essential for numerous bodily functions, but its impact on hormone regulation, bone health, and mood stabilisation makes it particularly crucial during menopause.We explore how zinc helps balance estrogen and progesterone levels, supports bone density to prevent osteoporosis, and aids in maintaining mental clarity and emotional well-being. You'll also learn about the best dietary sources of zinc, how to recognise signs of deficiency, and when to consider supplements to meet your needs.Whether you're currently experiencing menopause or preparing for it, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you navigate this transition with the support of zinc. Tune in to discover how this mighty mineral can make a big difference in your health and wellness journey.For more on crucial nutrients to help during the menopause transition, grab a copy of my free Nutrient Ebook.

From childhood we hear about the importance of calcium to support growth & development and as adults that it’s vital for maintaining health & preventing age-related conditions, but why is it particularly important for women as they move through the menopause transition?Most of us know that it's essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth, but it does much more than that. On a cellular level, calcium is involved in various activities that keep our bodies running smoothly & in this weeks episode of Menopause Conversations we explore the essential functions that calcium plays such as healing wounds, muscle function, nervous system & more. We'll guide you through the best dietary sources of calcium beyond just dairy, discover the serious health risks associated with calcium deficiency, and learn to recognise the signs of a deficiency and understanding when it might be time to consult a healthcare professional for advice and testing.We also look at the value of calcium supplements

Is Magnesium the 'Hidden Hero' that could transform your health?In this episode, we dive into the vital role of magnesium in women's health. Discover why this often-overlooked mineral is essential for hundreds of bodily functions and how a deficiency can impact your well-being. We discuss symptoms of deficiency, such as irritability, headaches, muscle cramps, and insomnia, and explore the many benefits of magnesium, including mood stabilisation, hormone balance, improved sleep, and increased energy. All of which we tend to experience during the menopause transition. We'll also cover how to identify if you have a magnesium deficiency which can be hard to pinpoint. Learn practical ways to boost your magnesium levels through Epsom salt baths, magnesium-rich foods, and supplements. Tune in to find out why magnesium might be the supplement you need to jumpstart your healing journey.Join me for upcoming episodes of Menopause Conversations as I cover more of the important nutrients you need to support you through th

In this episode, we step into the vital role of iron in our bodies, particularly as we go through the menopause transition. We'll explore why iron is essential, focusing on its functions for oxygen transport and energy production, supporting the immune system, and aiding cognitive function. Learn: The best way to determine if you have an iron deficiency. How to recognise common symptoms of iron deficiency. Understand the various causes and the potential health concerns related to iron deficiency, especially if experienced over a long period of time. Nature has an amazing way of supporting us through many things in life & this is no different. I’ll share how particular foods can help with iron intake & absorption & answer the question, "do you need to supplement"? Enjoy another informative and empowering conversation on maintaining optimal health & supporting yourself during menopause & if you haven't already, join our Facebook group. Menopause Conversations | Fa

If you have heard & wondered about the myth that 'women never used to experience menopause because they didn't live long enough', take a listen to this episode as we bust that myth. Imagine living through a time when Menopause was considered a 'disease' and treated as such. Many other conditions were blamed on Menopause as very little research had been done on women's health & the medical field simply didn't know any better. Fascinating research is now showing the role that the brain plays in the Menopause transition. It's not all about the uterus & the ovaries. And as everyone's brain is different, we all have different experiences of menopause but the one common thread? Menopause is not to blame for every symptom we experience. It can be disheartening when your physician may dismiss your symptoms, or, blame every symptom on Menopause so it's time to get a holistic view of what is going on. There is so much we can do. Menopause has always been a part of women's lives but how we experience it has

Anxiety can affect our mental & physical health and in some cases, our overall quality of life. It may be something you have never experienced before now. Maybe your experience with it has previously been mild or only at certain times in your life and brought on by certain events. It could be something you have consistently struggled with. So why is it that in Menopause we are more likely to experience it? In this episode of Menopause Conversations I take a deeper look at: The key characteristics & signs of Anxiety. Why Anxiety can be worse during Menopause. Common triggers for Anxiety in Menopause. Natural solutions to reduce Anxiety. There are many ways in which you can support anxiety from food & lifestyle to natural supplements & self care. With understanding comes the ability to do something about it! Surrounding yourself with those having similar experiences can be a great support & reduce feelings of isolation so why not join our Menopause Conversations Facebook Gr

Whether you are still having a relatively normal menstrual cycle, experiencing irregular cycles or no cycle at all, this episode of Menopause Conversations is for you. Learn how to Balance your Hormones through a powerful ancient practice of Seed Cycling. Also supported by a lot of science and research, this practice has been shown to help PCOS, hormonal acne, PMS, thyroid, fatigue, mood swings, food craving, sore breasts, insulin resistance and many other symptoms experienced during women's cycles. Take a listen to hear about 'How' to Seed Cycle & 'Why', as well as 'What' seeds to consume and the supportive & protective benefits they provide. What have you got to lose? Grab a copy of my Seed Cycling Handout to keep the 'How To' at your fingertips.

We all experience inflammation at various times in our lives. It's a natural and essential part of the body's immune response to injury, infection or harmful stimuli so why is it that for women this increases during the menopause transition? In this episode I talk about what inflammation is and: The difference between acute and chronic inflammation. Identifying the signs of chronic inflammation and what happens when we experience it over a prolonged period. The connection between mental health, gut health & inflammation. Why it is worse during peri-menopause & beyond. There are so many signs our bodys give us when we are in an inflamed state but are we always listening? If skin reactions, lack of sleep or carrying extra weight are even one issue you are experiencing, take a listen to this episode as there is a lot you could be doing to feel better. I'll share some tips on what you can do to combat and reduce your inflammation.

Sleep is our most important daily habit and for many reasons it's not always easy to come by. For women going through the peri-menopause, menopause transition, it's more important than ever to be getting enough sleep & good quality sleep but how? In this episode of Menopause Conversations we share: The impact on your body & it's functions when you're not getting enough sleep. Why sleep it so important for the body, brain, cell repair, immune system, cardiovascular health and so much more. Some alarming statistics of how poor sleep can shorten your lifespan. The right time to sleep. What you need to avoid of an evening before bedtime. Just how much sleep you should be getting. But it's not all doom & gloom. There are some very simple things you can be doing & good habits to create that will help you to get your sleep back on track. Listen in now & if you want to learn more, use this link to get access to our 'Getting A Good Nights Sleep Ebook'.

No, you’re not going crazy! You are likely experiencing typical symptoms of the menopause transition. In this episode of Menopause Conversations, we talk through the impact of Menopause on your Brain and address the increased concern many women have about developing Alzheimer’s or Dementia.   If you have a parent or grandparent with Alzheimer’s or Dementia, this does not have to be your story also.   Two thirds of people suffering from Alzheimer’s are women, it is the second leading cause of death in Australia and the leading cause of death in women.   While there has been a drastic increase in Alzheimer’s, there is also an increase in study and testing in the area leading to more diagnoses but also greater understanding of the contributing factors to this, how our brains change during menopause and what we can do to support our brain health and minimise risk.   In this episode we talk about: The connection between the brain & our hormones & how they communicate with each other. The symptoms

This weeks podcast is a little something different as we welcome Yvonne Shepherd, the creator of Women’s Fitness Adventures. Yvonne has helped change the lives of many women in their 50s & over from burnt out Corporate workers to exhausted mothers, grandmothers and women that are feeling a little lost, unlike themselves & looking to experience more adventure in their lives in a supportive environment.   Through 10 years of Women’s Fitness Adventures Yvonne has created a space for women to come together, support each other, have some fun and do things they never thought they’d be able to do. She has helped to empower thousands of women to grow stronger and more confident, forge lasting friendships and unforgettable memories. If a community of amazing women looking for adventure, travelling to exciting places around the world, creating new friendships, looking & feeling good & discovering or rediscovering what their own capabilities & strengths are, you’ll love listening to this episode.

Have you ever asked yourself why it is that you need or want that glass of wine or beer? Stress, boredom, the social aspect of drinking or something else entirely? What about the effects that alcohol is having on your health, especially if you are already consuming other things like medications? In this episode of Menopause Conversations we are joined by special guest, Sarah Rusbatch. Sarah is a multi award winning Grey Area Drinking Coach, Menopause Coach, Author of the best-selling book 'Beyond Booze', Motivational Speaker and founder of a community of over 20,000 women. She has been featured on ABC News, Mamania, Body & Soul, Women's Health & The Sunday Times and is also a regular contributor on Channel 9. Sarah has supported thousands of individuals to change their relationship with alcohol with a goal to 'love yourself', and live your best life so we encourage you to take a listen to this fascinating and thought provoking discussion as we talk about: The alarming statisti

How many times have you weighed yourself on the scales one day and then the next day found your weight has gone up or down, simply overnight? Many of us have a belief that the scale is the ultimate measure of health and wellness but when it comes to menopause, this couldn't be further from the truth. Hormonal changes, water retention, and shifts in body composition can all skew the number on the scale so let's explore why this number is not only misleading but can be downright harmful to our understanding of health during menopause. The fixation on the scale can lead to scale anxiety, body image issues, and even disordered eating behaviours. It's a cycle that's tough to break, but it's possible. Knowledge is power, and the more we understand about the limitations of the scale, the better equipped we are to take control of our health. If you're keen to learn more about this and other important factors in Menopause and how to thrive, join my upcoming FREE online workshop from 20th