Mad With The Menopause

Join me in conversation with Andrea Clare, the visionary and organiser of Scotland’s first ever Pause Summit, taking place in Glasgow on October the 18th 2026. Andrea is a Creative Menopause Coach. helping women understand, navigate, and thrive in midlife through creativity, drawing on her own terrible experience of the perimenopause.   KEY TAKE AWAYS: The three stages of menopause and hormonal impact The importance of hormone education and awareness How menopause affects relationships and intimacy Self-advocacy in healthcare and the role of GPs Lifestyle choices and holistic approaches to menopause The significance of support groups and community The upcoming Scottish Paws Summit details and speakers Personal experiences with hormone therapy and medication   USEFUL RESOURCES: Get your tickets here:  https://scottishpausesummit.co.uk/ LinkedIn: Andrea Clare Unlimited   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)

Alexander Perry is the founder of Alexander Clementine, a women’s health underwear brand creating soft, breathable underwear from seaweed and eucalyptus. After studying Biochemistry and Biological Chemistry, Alexander went on to work in fashion before founding Alexander Clementine, inspired by his mother Alison’s experience with breast cancer treatment and recovery. The brand continues to innovate in her name and memory. Alexander Clementine exists to rethink the first layer for women navigating menopause, sensitivity, recovery and everyday discomfort - combining science-led fabric innovation with beautiful, comfort-first design. Alexander is passionate about opening more honest conversations around women’s health, menopause and the role better materials can play in supporting women’s bodies.   KEY TAKE AWAYS: 00:00 - Introduction to Alex and her journey 02:21 - The evolution of Alexander Clementine 04:16 - Sourcing fabrics and the benefits of eucalyptus 07:01 - Why Icelandic seaweed was chosen 12:14 - The product presentation and customer experience 14:08 - Range of garments and target use 17:09- - Website and shopping experience 21:00 - Future plans and industry outlook 24:30 - Most surprising learnings about menopause 26:07 - Supporting Alex's business and final thoughts   USEFUL RESOURCES: Instagram:  @alexanderclementineltd LinkedIn:   Alex Perry Website:   www.alexanderclementine.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]

In today’s episode, we’re joined by Dr. Gilly Kahn, a licensed clinical psychologist and author specialising in neurodiversity, emotion regulation, and executive functioning. Dr. Kahn is a leading voice on ADHD - especially when it comes to the often-overlooked emotional side of living with a neurodivergent brain. She is the author of 'Allow Me to Interrupt: A Psychologist Reveals the Emotional Truth Behind Women’s ADHD.' What makes her perspective so powerful is that she bridges rigorous clinical psychology with her own personal journey with ADHD.   KEY TAKE AWAYS: 00:00 - Introduction to Gilly Kahn and her work 01:56 - Gilly’s early interest in working with autistic children 04:00 - Recognizing social withdrawal and non-anxious withdrawal in children 06:00 - Personal experiences with undiagnosed ADHD 09:00 - The journey of writing her book about women’s ADHD 12:02 - The significance of self-compassion and psycho-education 15:03 - The story behind the book’s title and stereotypes 17:01 - Advice for navigating life with ADHD 21:59 - Hormonal influences on women with ADHD and perimenopause 28:00 - Personal health experiences and the impact of stress 30:50 - Final thoughts and encouragement for self-acceptance     USEFUL RESOURCES: Instagram:  @drgillykahn   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 this milestone episode, Anél breaks down the 5 Pillars of Health, showing why prioritising your wellbeing matters now, more than ever as you enter perimenopause and menopause.   KEY TAKE AWAYS: 00:00 - Introduction to Menopause and the 5 Pillars of Health 02:19 - Strength Training and Bone Health 03:06 - Prioritising Sleep for Cellular Repair 04:00 - Managing Stress and Nervous System Health 04:54 - The Power of Connection and Self-Compassion 05:10 - Final Thoughts: Thriving in Menopause   USEFUL RESOURCES: Instagram:   @anelquilliam   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 Simon Salt, a writer, speaker, and Certified Menopause Coach whose work explores how menopause shapes relationships, communication, and workplace wellbeing. Through ‘The Quiet Transition’, Simon helps couples and organisations navigate one of life’s most overlooked transitions.   KEY TAKE AWAYS: 00:00 -  Introduction and guest introduction 01:12 -  How Simon's wife entered perimenopause 02:22 - The emotional toll and relationship changes 03:49 -  Diagnosis and understanding symptoms 04:44 -  The importance of emotional intimacy 06:10 -  Men's lack of information and support 07:16  - The shift from fixing to partnering 08:12  - Navigating identity and aging 09:20 -  The importance of lived experience 10:48  - Research and understanding the biological aspects 12:08  - Creating a new relationship dynamic 13:35 -  Providing tailored information for men 14:32 -  Sit, listen, believe framework 15:28 -  Learning from lived experiences 16:54 -  Adapting to unpredictable symptoms 18:07 -  Reframing aging as transition, not end 19:44 -  Supporting through flexibility and patience 21:14 -  The societal view of aging and menopause 22:33 -  Practical support and shared responsibilities 24:18 -  Stepping back and allowing mistakes 26:51 -  Recognizing emotional triggers and timing 28:21 -  Reading the room and emotional cues 30:54 -  The role of continuous information gathering 31:47 -  The 'Quiet Transition' content platform 32:19 -  Upcoming book and future plans   USEFUL RESOURCES: Substack: https://substack.com/@thequiettransition LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonsalt/ Website:  https://www.thequiettransition.com/ Podcast:  https://www.thequiettransition.com/podcast     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 Libby Stevenson, a wellbeing practitioner and a certified pregnancy, postnatal and menopause yoga teacher. Libby’s lived experience of navigating each stage without support and knowledge motivated her to empower women physically, mentally and emotionally with yoga, science-based information, therapeutic wellbeing and women’s circle discussions so that they are better equipped to face the challenges at each stage in a positive and healthier way.    KEY TAKE AWAYS: 00:00 - Introduction 00:11 - Journey into Women's Wellness 03:45 - The Impact of Yoga on Life Changes 07:58 - Navigating Empty Nest Syndrome 08:28 - Finding Purpose in Yoga Teaching 09:54 - Transitioning to Online Yoga Classes 11:06 - The Holistic Approach to Women's Health 11:32 - Benefits of Yoga During Menopause 16:09 - Embracing Change: The Menopausal Journey 19:21 - Meditation and Mindfulness in Yoga 22:19 - Getting Started with Yoga 24:54 - Exploring Different Yoga Styles 28:00 - Connecting with the Right Yoga Community   USEFUL RESOURCES: Website:  https://libbystevensonwellbeing.com/ Instagram:  @libbystevenson.wellbeing   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]

Sharon Pendlington is a Menopause and Nervous System Specialist with a decade of clinical experience helping women to navigate the menopause transition, with less stress and more confidence. Sharon specialises in supporting people in midlife to sleep through the night again, stabilise their mood, and restore their sharp mental clarity. She's the founder of the 90-Day Perimenopause Nervous System Reset group program, and she works with organisations to create menopause-inclusive workplaces.   KEY TAKE AWAYS: 00:00 - Introduction to Menopause Conversations 02:28 - Sharon's Personal Journey with Menopause 05:20 - The Role of Mindfulness in Managing Symptoms 08:12 - The Importance of Community and Shared Experiences 10:40 - Developing a Mindfulness Program for Women 13:28 - Practical Tips for Starting Mindfulness 15:53 - Connecting with Sharon and Resources for Women 18:30 - Final Thoughts on Self-Care and Menopause   USEFUL RESOURCES: Want to know your Perimenopause Archetype and start feeling better today? Take the 3-minute Perimenopause Archetype Quiz Website: https://www.sharonpendlington.com/ Instagram: @sharonpendlington   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]

Hayley is the founder of The Promise Method, a 66-day daily self-trust practice for capable midlife women whose body no longer tolerates the pace they’ve lived at for years. After her body finally stopped tolerating a lifetime of pushing through, Hayley began keeping one tiny daily promise to herself – a practice she has kept for more than 875 days now. What started as survival, slowly became a method for rebuilding safety, self-trust and connection inside the body. Through honest conversations about midlife, nervous system overwhelm, emotional exhaustion, and hidden cost of always being the capable one, Haley helps women recognise that they are not broken, their body is simply no longer willing to keep overriding itself to survive. Her work is grounded in lived experience rather than performance, helping women move from survival mode toward safety, through tiny repeatable daily actions their body does not resist.   KEY TAKE AWAYS: 00:00 - Introduction and Setting the Stage 00:12 - The Birth of The Promise Method 02:30 - Navigating Health Anxiety and Self-Discovery 05:30 - Understanding the Method: Building Habits 07:39 - The Journey of Self-Trust and Movement 11:29 - Permission to Prioritize Self-Care 13:22 - Family Dynamics and Personal Growth 15:09 - Navigating Emotional Conversations 16:22 - Understanding Beliefs and Emotions 17:15 - The Importance of Sharing Experiences 18:03 - Overcoming Information Overload 18:51 - Listening to Your Body 20:17 - Finding Movement That Resonates 23:19 - Recognizing the Need for Self-Care 24:42 - The Impact of Women's Health Awareness 25:48 - Embracing New Opportunities 28:13 - The Power of Kindness and Community 31:01 - Authenticity in Sharing Your Journey 32:59 - Trusting Your Intuition   USEFUL RESOURCES: Website: www.thepromisemethod.co.uk Instagram:  @thepromisemethod   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]

Georgina is the founder of Purpl, a UK platform helping people with disabilities and long-term health conditions save money and access meaningful support. Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) and ADHD, she understands first-hand the financial and everyday challenges her community faces. She launched Purpl to make life more affordable and less isolating by combining hundreds of brand offers,  with community support and the Purpl Grant Fund. Georgina focuses on driving real impact beyond discounts by working with brands to create meaningful change.   KEY TAKE AWAYS: 00:00 - Journey to Diagnosis: Georgina's Story 02:04 - Connecting ADHD, MS, and Hormones 05:02 - Managing Symptoms: A Holistic Approach 08:01 - The Birth of Purpl: Supporting the Disabled Community 10:29 - Building a Community: Resources and Support 13:10 - Future Plans: Expanding Purpl's Impact 16:16 - Finding Joy: Personal Life and Hobbies   USEFUL RESOURCES: Website:  https://www.purpldiscounts.com/ Instagram:  @purpldiscounts Socials @purpldiscounts across Facebook, TikTok and YouTube   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]

Adele Wimsett is a Women’s Health Practitioner specialising in ADHD and perimenopause. Adele supports women whose mood, cognition, menstrual cycle symptoms and nervous system become increasingly dysregulated during hormonal transition, helping them understand what’s happening in their bodies and make informed, consent-led decisions about hormone support. Her work is hormone-literate, neurodivergent-informed, and grounded in education rather than one-size-fits-all protocols.   KEY TAKE AWAYS: 00:00 - Introduction 00:21 - Adele's Journey into Women's Health 03:36 - The Impact of Hormones on ADHD 07:05 - Stress and the Modern Woman's Experience 11:31 - Neurodivergent Women and Burnout 13:52 - Exploring HRT and Its Implications 15:28 - How to Work with Adele 17:46 - Understanding Rejection Sensitivity Dysphoria (RSD) 21:52 - Final Thoughts and Pearls of Wisdom   USEFUL RESOURCES: Website:  https://harmoniseyou.co.uk/ Instagram:  @adele_wimsett   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]