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WomenKind Collective

WomenKind Collective

By Jinty Sheerin and Lou Hockings-Thompson

Join best friends Jinty and Lou for a weekly chat as they embark on a fun & educational journey, talking to experts and advocates on subjects that are often taboo. They talk about health, hormones, menopause, family, relationships, misogyny, equality and much more. There’s plenty of honest chat and a lot of laughter with fantastic guests, a Book Collective (book club), a Foodie Collective with recipes, and a Weekly Invite (WI) with ideas & tips to challenge Jinty, Lou & you! So come along and join the Collective. We love to hear your thoughts &experiences so please follow us & get in touch
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Currently playing episode

A Woman’s Brain in Menopause, with Tonya Keane

WomenKind CollectiveJul 11, 2021

00:00
01:11:26
Ovarian Cancer: Medical Weight Stigma & Bias With Patient Expert Sarah-Jane Myatt

Ovarian Cancer: Medical Weight Stigma & Bias With Patient Expert Sarah-Jane Myatt

Series 9 FINALE. This month it is Ovarian Cancer awareness month and do you know the four main symptoms of Ovarian Cancer which are Bloating, Stomach pain, weeing more and struggling to eat? Knowing this information could be lifesaving as an early diagnosis can make all the difference. Our guest this week is someone who understands this only too well, Sarah Myatt suffered from and recognised all the classic ovarian cancer symptoms for over two years yet was repeatedly sent away from her GP surgery and told to lose weight or that her symptoms were simply because she was fat. Sarah is a warm and open human being, she comes from Manchester and describes herself as a queer fat woman, she told us that it took a Dr that was fat like her to actually listen, and six hours later she learned that she had a mass measuring 20 x 20 x 19cm filling her abdomen and eight weeks later after over eight hours of menopause inducing surgery, they discovered Sarah had 2 primary cancers, womb and Ovarian, and that it was too advanced to cure. They told Sarah that she should see four years, she was only 42 years old. Now five years on, Sarah shares her lived experience to, not only raise awareness of these cancers but also to shed light on the medical weight stigma and bias she has experienced, the medical gaslighting, the unhelpful assumptions made by Health care professionals about her sexuality and how surgery and a gynaecological cancer diagnosis can change how we feel and experience pleasure and intimacy. In the Book Collective we conclude Caitlin Moran’s, What About Men? We read chapter 15, hat About Men and the epilogue. You can join in with our Book Club, send us a DM or voice note with your thoughts on the book. We also announce our new book for series 10!   Jinty brings us all the warm and fuzzy feels as she finds news involving Cats, books and phenomenal older women. It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans! So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.   If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast you may like to consider buying us a Ko-Fi at  https://ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast Here you can find updates, photos and some inclusive content we won’t post anywhere else and your donation will help us ensure we continue to bring you great quality of content and sound. Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: https://www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: https://menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk   Sarah-Jane Myatt I: gamingnorthener77   Ovarian & Womb Cancer Support UK: https://www.macmillan.org.uk/cancer-information-and-support/ovarian-cancer https://eveappeal.org.uk/gynaecological-cancers/womb-cancer You can watch the full unedited interview on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA  
Mar 23, 202401:25:04
Lobular Breast Cancer Awareness. With The Topless Runner, Louise Butcher

Lobular Breast Cancer Awareness. With The Topless Runner, Louise Butcher

Our guest on the podcast this week is Louise Butcher, who is not only a breast cancer warrior, she is a topless marathon runner, body positivity icon, a musician, a mum and a bloody lovely person. We ran with Louise in our underwear through her home town in North Devon and got to see the love and support that she has from all the people who meet her.
Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer in the UK. The risk increases with age and most (but not all) women diagnosed with breast cancer are over the age of 50. About 1 in 7 women will have breast cancer during their lifetime and there is a good chance of recovery if it's detected early.
Louise was training for the virtual London marathon when she was diagnosed with Lobular Breast Cancer in 2022. Lobular Breast Cancer is a distinct type of breast cancer that has different characteristics and growth from the more common Ductal Breast Cancer.
After a double mastectomy, Louise runs topless, showing her mastectomy scars to help remove the stigma of flat closure surgery, promote body positivity and to raise awareness of Lobular Breast Cancer.
In April she will make history and become the first woman ever in the world to run a marathon topless, and raising funds for Breast Cancer Now charity. Breast Cancer Now. Donation Page:
2024tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/louise-bucher?utm_medium=whatsapp

In the Book Collective we continue with Caitlin Moran’s, What About Men? We read chapter 14 The Oldness of Men and discuss how men miss out on many things in life as they age, and is there such a thing as a mid-life crisis?. You can join in with our Book Club, send us a DM or voice note with your thoughts on the book.

Jinty de-bunks a Florence Nightingale myth and Lou looks at how throughout history men have stolen female inventions. Plus what do you do with sports bra padding, in or out? It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual sweary shenanigans! So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.

If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast you may like to consider buying us a Ko-Fi at ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
Here you can find updates, photos and some inclusive content we won’t post anywhere else and your donation will help us ensure we continue to bring you great quality of content and sound.
Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk

Louise Butcher:
Breast Cancer Now. Donation Page: 2024tcslondonmarathon.enthuse.com/pf/louise-bucher?utm_medium=whatsapp
I: @louisebutcher39
F: Louise Bernadette Butcher
TT: @louisebernadetteb

You can watch the full unedited interview on our YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA
Mar 16, 202401:17:09
Sleep apnea, Snoring & Menopause with Dr Jo Ingleby

Sleep apnea, Snoring & Menopause with Dr Jo Ingleby

Our topic today is sleep disturbances, and studies consistently show an increased likelihood of sleep problems during the menopausal transition.
There are different types of sleep disturbances with many causes but have you ever thought about Sleep Disordered breathing? Did you know for instance that in Menopause we are 2-3 times more likely to have sleep disordered breathing and in post menopause this rises to 6 x more likely. Sleep disordered breathing, snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea negatively affects us, both mentally and physically and can also impact our long term health.
The women’s health concern tell us that obstructive sleep apnoea is not just about loud snoring and gasping. Sleep apnoea in women can also manifest itself in other ways including headaches, insomnia, depression or anxiety and daytime fatigue. Not every woman with OSA will snore or snort loudly whilst asleep.
Our guest this week is passionate about spreading awareness of the importance of breathing well at night, and says that a huge ‘ 90% of women with sleep apnoea go undiagnosed’. Jo Ingleby has worked in Community, University and Hospital Services and general dental practice since graduating over 30 years ago and has been in the same general dental practice for over 26 years. Over the past 15 years she has developed her interest in dental sleep medicine, making her first appliance for her very noisy snorer husband who she now no longer wants to throttle when he’s asleep. Jo receives referrals from local dentists, sleep clinics, and referring specialists such as ENT consultants and has made hundreds of mandibular advancement appliances. Jo now tries to explore a patients individual risk factors and together they examine how to improve their breathing whilst asleep with options such as lifestyle, nasal breathing and mouth/ throat exercises. Jo earned the Masterclass Certification from the Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine in 2023 ,and teaches other dentists in how to identify and treat patients with sleep disordered breathing. She is on the Board of the British Society of Dental Sleep medicine.

In the Book Collective we continue with Caitlin Moran’s, What About Men? We read chapter 13 The Illnesses of Men – or, Why Men Won’t Go to the Doctor. We look at how the gender pay gap has negatively affected men’s health. You can join in with our Book Club, send us a DM or voice note with your thoughts on the book.

We talk about the Cura-H awards and our time at the Women’s Health Professional Care 2024 Olympia. WI find out how our running challenge is jogging along whilst snapping photos.
It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual sweary shenanigans! So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.

If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast you may like to consider buying us a Ko-Fi at
ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
Here you can find updates, photos and some inclusive content we won’t post anywhere else and your donation will help us ensure we continue to bring you great quality of content and sound.
Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk


Dr Jo Ingleby
W: www.sleepbettermanchester.co.uk
I: @sleepbettermanchester

You can watch the full unedited interview on our YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA
Mar 09, 202401:11:08
Life on Pause; Premature Ovarian Insufficiency With Author and surgeon Siobhan O’Sullivan

Life on Pause; Premature Ovarian Insufficiency With Author and surgeon Siobhan O’Sullivan

Our guest on the podcast today is not only an author of the book, My Life On Pause, and she is also training to be a surgeon. Siobhan O’Sullivan was diagnosed at 31 years old with premature ovarian insufficiency, a condition where the ovaries stop functioning as they should under the age of 40. Siobhan ignored her diagnosis for a number of years feeling betrayed and ashamed by her body, and the impact it on her fertility and how Siobhan felt she was carrying around a big dirty secret. She felt isolated, it was only when she caught covid and had to isolate for 10 days that she was forced to confront her diagnosis and her book, My Life On Pause was born. She is now on a mission to break societal views of womanhood, youth and fertility, giving people a space to be unapologetically themselves.

We talk about the impact of menopause in your 30’s, confronting your own fertility, dating and socialising, the stigma of being in your 30’s and single and how Siobhan is redefining her identity. We also ask Siobhan about being a female surgeon.

In the Book Collective we continue reading Caitlin Moran’s, What About Men? We are full of disbelief at chapter 11 The Manosphere and through chapter 12 The Fatherhood of Men it gave us a deeper understanding of our dads. You can join in with our Book Club, send us a DM or voice note with your thoughts on the book.

March is Endometriosis Action month with the theme ‘Could it be Endometriosis?’ So Jinty talks endometriosis symptoms and has some startling facts. In the WI find out how our running challenge is jogging along. Plus, we chuck another WI into the mix!
It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual sweary shenanigans! So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.

If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast you may like to consider buying us a Ko-Fi at
ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
Here you can find updates, photos and some inclusive content we won’t post anywhere else and your donation will help us ensure we continue to bring you great quality of content and sound.
Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk

Siobhan O’Sullivan
Book: My Life On Pause. Olympia publishers
I: @mlop_poi

You can watch the full unedited interview on our YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA
Mar 02, 202401:06:44
Wellbeing and Photography with Photographer Vanessa Miles

Wellbeing and Photography with Photographer Vanessa Miles

Now if you want to see the World a little differently or would like to be in the moment and notice nature in all its beauty then today’s guest can help you achieve this. Vanessa Miles is a photographer and from a young age she had an early passion for the environment which led her to work as a photographer on a Greenpeace ship and then to set up the UK’s first independent picture agency in 1989, specialising in environmental issues. Her photography career has been varied but her passion for the environment has remained throughout. In 2020, largely as a response to the pandemic Vanessa created Well Image- a not for profit organisation using creative photography projects to improve wellbeing. The aims are very closely aligned to the NHS’s 5 steps to wellbeing which are well researched. They are; engage with nature, connect socially with others, practise being present, increase activity and learn a new skill. Through running live online photography workshops, Vanessa has discovered that the courses are having the greatest impact on those who are most isolated which includes those experiencing high level of anxiety, whatever the cause, long term health conditions or disability. Vanessa imparts some practical tips to help us get the most from our camera phones and we learn how taking photos whilst out can help us be mindful and in the moment whilst also benefiting from being out in nature and connecting socially.  In the Book Collective we continue reading Caitlin Moran’s, What About Men? We talk through chapters 9 & 10; did we find them enlightening? Find out or join in with our Book Club.   Lou has some important fashion news straight off the Paris catwalk and it’s all about the merkin and Jinty quizzes us about a little known phenomenon, phantasia, the visualisation of imagery. Find out here where you are on the Minds eye scale https://aphantasia.com/study/vviq/ In the WI find out how are running challenge is jogging along. Are you joining us? It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual sweary shenanigans! So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.   Stay in touch email us here womenkindcollective@gmail.com If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast you may like to consider buying us a Ko-Fi at  https://ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast Here you can find updates, photos and some inclusive content we won’t post anywhere else and your donation will help us ensure we continue to bring you great quality of content and sound. Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: https://www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: https://menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk     Vanessa Miles: W: https://wellimage.co.uk/ I: @well_image F: Well Image You can watch the full unedited interview on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA
Feb 24, 202455:23
 Dr Nighat Arif, A Guide to Female Health

Dr Nighat Arif, A Guide to Female Health

We have a very special guest on our podcast today. Dr Nighat Arif joins us and talks about being a woman, a mum, a GP, a health advocate, and about becoming an author with her brilliant new book, The Knowledge, a go-to guide from menstruation to menopause and beyond. No subject is off limit in this wonderful and open chat, from female anatomy, equity and diversity to HRT, cold water swimming and Mrs Doubtfire. Dr Nighat Arif is a GP specialising in women's health and family planning with over 16 years’ experience in the NHS and private practice. She is based in Buckinghamshire and is able to consult fluently with patients in Urdu and Punjabi. Dr Nighat works, to raise awareness on menopause and women's healthcare in Black and Asian women. She is the ambassador of many wonderful charities including Wellbeing of Women, where she has joined forces with grassroots organisations to form the Health Collective to ensure that care pathways meet the needs of marginalised communities. You will recognise Dr Nighat as the resident doctor on BBC Breakfast, ITV'S This Morning and BBC Look East.   In the Book Collective we continue reading Caitlin Moran’s, What About Men? We talk through chapters 7 & 8, about the disturbing realities of pornography addiction, and the friendship difficulties faced by men.   You’ll need to listen in for Jinty’s discussion on architecture and why the antiquated 21 metre rule was to protect the Edwardian women’s modesty. And Lou has disturbing news of TFL’s failings for disabled passengers. In the Weekly Invitation to try something new did you manage to date yourself? It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual sweary shenanigans! So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.   Dr Nighat Arif: Book: The Knowledge: Your Guide to Female health – From Menstruation to The Menopause. August 2023 here https://www.hive.co.uk/Product/Dr-Nighat-Arif/The-Knowledge--Your-guide-to-female-health---from-menstru/26425481 W: www.wellbeingofwomen.org.uk I: @drnighatarif L: Nighat Arif You can watch the full unedited interview on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast you may like to consider buying us a Ko-Fi at  https://ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast Here you can find updates, photos and some inclusive content we won’t post anywhere else and your donation will help us ensure we continue to bring you great quality of content and sound. Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: https://www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: https://menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk
Feb 17, 202401:36:53
Navigating Menopause with Menopause Entrepreneur Melissa Neisler-Dickinson

Navigating Menopause with Menopause Entrepreneur Melissa Neisler-Dickinson

Our guest on the podcast today is Melissa Neisler-Dickinson and we discuss how to navigate the impact that Menopause may have on our work lives, home lives and social lives. We discover how one woman’s story went from battling the mental and physical symptoms of peri menopause to becoming an entrepreneur in post menopause.
Mel has become an advocate for women's health and wellness during perimenopause, menopause, and beyond and founded both the Menopause Vitamin Company and the Facebook group, Menopause Support Group UK, following her own difficult perimenopause. Mel said she ‘literally lost who she was’. She is now a trusted voice for women navigating this often challenging phase of life. We loved our open and honest chat about all things menopause.

In the Book Collective we continue reading Caitlin Moran’s, What About Men? And it’s all about the cock and balls of men.

Jinty has news for about the days taken off sick for periods and Lou looks at why you should never scrape the mould off bread!
In the WI did you manage to date yourself?
It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual sweary shenanigans! So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.
➡️ You can vote for us for the people’s choice Cura h awards
www.thecuraawards.com/about-1
If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast you may like to consider buying us a Ko-Fi at ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
Here you can find updates, photos and some inclusive content we won’t post anywhere else and your donation will help us ensure we continue to bring you great quality of content and sound.
Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk


Menopause Vitamin Company
W: menopausevitamincompany.co.uk/
I: @menopausevitaminco
F: Menopause vitamin company

You can watch the full unedited interview on our Womenkind Collective YouTube channel: : www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA
Feb 10, 202401:02:18
Self Love; How do we do it & Why it matters with Elle Mace

Self Love; How do we do it & Why it matters with Elle Mace

Today we learn about self-love with our guest, Elle Mace. Elle is a Leadership and Management coach and mentor, she’s also a Master Practitioner in eating disorders, obesity and body dysmorphia, a nutrition and weight management therapist as well as a life and positive psychology coach.
Elle says that she has, ‘always been passionate about health and fitness,’ however, for years she struggled with an unhealthy relationship with food which began when she was 10 years old.
Elle has learned to free herself from what she calls her ‘food demons’ and fall back in love with her body and today is passionate about spreading the word to women, men and children that there is another way.
Elle joins us today to tell us about her own experience and give us some advice about self love or even self like, even if it feels an impossible task.
She gives us some simple self care tips to aid us with our relationship with ourselves, and we learn why it is important. We talk about societal norms for dieting and ask when does the diet cross over into ‘disordered eating’?

In the Book Collective we are reading Caitlin Moran’s What About Men? This week we discuss chapters 3 and 4, the negative body images that have become societal norms and why men should stop wearing scrotum squashing jeans.

Jinty has some great news for menopausal women if the UK government need extra troops and Lou tells us how best to wash your knickers/pants/under crackers.
In the WI we continue with the Action For Happiness WI calendar.
It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual sweary shenanigans! So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.

If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast you may like to consider buying us a Ko-Fi at
ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
Here you can find updates, photos and some inclusive content we won’t post anywhere else and your donation will help us ensure we continue to bring you great quality of content and sound.
Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk

Action for Happiness Calendar: actionforhappiness.org/calendar#download-block-anchor

Elle Mace:
W: www.ellemace.com/
I: @iamellemace
F: Elle Mace
L: Elle Mace

You can watch the full unedited interview on our YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA

Beat website for support with disordered eating www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk/get-information-and-support/
Feb 03, 202401:16:01
For The Love Of Tea; from Periods to Menopause with Tea Scientist Bethan Thomas

For The Love Of Tea; from Periods to Menopause with Tea Scientist Bethan Thomas

Now if you are a regular listener of our podcast you will know that we both absolutely LOVE a cup of tea, so we could not pass up this chance to chat with, not just another tea lover but tea scientist Bethan Thomas.
Bethan is a renowned tea expert, with over 18 years commercial experience blending and buying tea for the UK's most prestigious tea companies before establishing her own successful brand, Hottea Mama, which is how we met her- Bethan kindly catered for all our tea requirements on our More than a Menopause retreat.
After graduating from Oxford University with a masters in Chinese Studies, Bethan was the first non-Chinese national to gain a degree in Tea Science from the University of Agriculture and Forestry in Fujian, giving her a unique knowledge of the bio-chemistry of tea, production methods, blending techniques and tea culture.

Bethan tells us where her love of tea began and we find out the differences between different types of tea and most importantly their varying benefits for Women’s health from periods to menopause. Find out what ingredients to look for for specific symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, painful periods, digestive issues and more.
Bethan explains the inspiration for starting HotTea mama and and we also discuss the important questions like ‘what’s the best biscuit to dunk in your tea?’

In the Book Collective we are reading Caitlin Moran’s What About Men? We discuss chapter 1 and 2 and we learn how to be a boy and all the banter that’s involved. It’s insightful with a twist of how boys are set up to fail from day 1 of school.

Lou gets all hairy for Janu-hairy and Jinty discovers why some women now identify as a pot hole with the paltry amount of money spent on female health compared to pot holes in England.
In the WI we continue with the Action For Happiness WI calendar.
It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans! So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.

If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast you may like to consider buying us a Ko-Fi at
ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
Here you can find updates, photos and some inclusive content we won’t post anywhere else and your donation will help us ensure we continue to bring you great quality of content and sound.
Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk

Action for Happiness Calendar: actionforhappiness.org/calendar#download-block-anchor

HOTTEA MAMA:
W: www.hotteamama.com/
I: @hotteamama

watch the un-edited interview on our womenkind collective YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA
Jan 27, 202401:14:30
Sisterhood, Community & Folk Music with Julu & Heg of Folk duo Suthering

Sisterhood, Community & Folk Music with Julu & Heg of Folk duo Suthering

We begin this new series with two wonderful guests, Julu Irvine and Heg Brignall who together make up the folk duo Suthering. We talk about their new album (If we Turn Away), women and folk culture, how they created Tavistock Pride, our joint love for Bridget Christie and more.
The fabulous duo are known for their chemistry and humour on stage, they effortlessly intertwine their important messages about the state of our climate, social conscience, and the importance of community and connecting with nature. They champion female characters, creating new narratives for women and unearthing the female heroines of folk and they even sing a song from their forthcoming second album for us.
We are very lucky, here in Devon because in 2019 Julu and Heg moved from Bristol to Devon in a bid to create a more connected life on the edge of Dartmoor National Park.
They delight in bringing communities together; they run two community choirs (Wheelhouse Folk Choir and The Great Sea Choir) and also run their company Suthering Singing Retreats which offers singing workshops for adults.

In the Book Collective we begin reading Caitlin Moran’s book, What About Men? We begin reading the prologue where she explores the reasoning and need for this book to be written.

Jinty discusses flowers with names of genitalia and Lou has a new friend Mr Jones! There’s a quote from Lou and an Action For Happiness WI calendar that you can all get involved with.
It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual sweary shenanigans! So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.

If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast you may like to consider buying us a Ko-Fi at
ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
Here you can find updates, photos and some inclusive content we won’t post anywhere else and your donation will help us ensure we continue to bring you great quality of content and sound.
Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk

Action for Happiness Calendar: actionforhappiness.org/calendar#download-block-anchor

Suthering:
W: www.suthering.com/
I: @sutheringmusic

If We Turn Away - listen here
music.apple.com/gb/album/if-we-turn-away/1603444884

! You can watch the full unedited chat with Suthering on our YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA
Jan 20, 202401:09:25
Neurodiversity, work & support with virtual PA Lorraine Owadali

Neurodiversity, work & support with virtual PA Lorraine Owadali

Did you know that a recent report from the National Autistic Society found that of the 700,000 adults with Autism only 15% are in employment? We spoke to Lorraine Owodali back in series 7 about access to work funding available for people in the UK who have a disability or a health condition that means they need additional support to do their job. And today we welcome her back to find out more about what she does and how might a virtual PA support you? Over the last few years Lorraine has been PA to many neurodivergent individuals and is passionate about spreading the word about the Access to work funding, which might give people access to support from someone such as herself to manage the organisational side of their work or business. Lorraine is the Founder of Lorraine Freelance PA  Ltd & a UK Virtual Assistant in Bristol supporting Business Owners. She is a natural organiser, and loves a ‘to-do list and the opportunity to support people in business and identify the tasks and areas they might need support with. Lorraine has over 20 years of combined Personal and Executive Assistant experience, working at a senior level predominately within Aerospace Engineering & Technology. She says that the role of a Virtual Assistant is so much more than providing excellent PA and marketing support, it's being able to think ahead, so you don't have to sweat the small stuff.  In the Book Collective we review our book choices for 2023 and tell you what books we are putting on our Christmas list.   For the Foodie Collective we end our souper soup with a winter warmer and a soup that uses up your Christmas leftovers: Curried Brussel sprout soup and it’s surprisingly delicious! You can find the recipe here: https://cookveggielicious.com/curried-brussels-sprout-soup   Jinty has a fun Christmas quiz (you won’t have heard these questions before and will add some good conversation around the Christmas table!) and Lou is not happy about ending the series on an odd number. There’s the most beautiful quote to end the series from Jinty. And we complete our WI planking challenge with a mug of tea and with the help of our friend Annie. It’s another episode brimming with chat, information, your comments, and all the usual sweary shenanigans! So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.   If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast you may like to consider buying us a Ko-Fi at  https://ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast Here you can find updates, photos and some inclusive content we won’t post anywhere else and your donation will help us ensure we continue to bring you great quality of content and sound. Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: https://www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: https://menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk   Lorraine Owolabi: W: https://www.lorrainefreelancepa.com/ I: @lorraine_freelance_pa You can watch the full unedited interview on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA
Dec 16, 202301:00:24
Pro-ageing & Intimate Wellness with consultant gynaecologist Smita Sinha

Pro-ageing & Intimate Wellness with consultant gynaecologist Smita Sinha

Earlier this year we met up with Smita Sinha for a coffee, and in the middle of a busy cafe talked about Intimate Health, Vulvas, Vaginas and menopause, we didn’t even whisper and it was so refreshing.
Smita is the founder of Serenity Women’s Clinic and is a Consultant Gynaecologist with over 15 years’ experience in Women’s Health and specialises in Menopause and Vulval Health. She is a member of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, British Menopause Society and British Society for the study of Vulval disease.
Smita has a special interest in Medical education and wellbeing and has held several leadership roles in Doctors postgraduate education and pastoral care. She enjoys raising awareness on Women’s Health topics and her passion is to support Women to Pro-age with evidence based management. She has created Serenity Women’s Clinic to provide a one stop approach for Women, with consultations and treatments for Menopause, Vulval Health as well Facial Aesthetics and Intimate rejuvenation.

We ask Smita about Pro-ageing and discuss this privilege (beats the alternative!). We go back to basics as Smita tells us why we might suffer from Genitourinary Syndrome of menopause and other vulva and vagina conditions. We look at common symptoms and treatments, stigma and what exactly do Doctors think when we go for an intimate examination. We also discuss intimate rejuvenation, what is it and who might need it.

Book Collective: We conclude the wonderful Twelve Moons. A Year Under A Shared Sky by Caro Giles. This week we read chapter 12, Cold Moon, quite fittingly it’s the December moon. It’s a time of reflection for Caro and the girls as well as hope for the future.

We announce the new book for the collective for January, we think you’ll love it!

We talk feminism as Jinty tells us about bike face, did you know it was a thing? There’s also a Zip-a-Dee-Doo-Dah quiz and Lou finds out the best and cheapest times to food shop leading up to Christmas.
There’s an inspirational quote from Lou, it’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual sweary shenanigans! So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.

If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast you may like to consider buying us a Ko-Fi at
ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
Here you can find updates, photos and some inclusive content we won’t post anywhere else and your donation will help us ensure we continue to bring you great quality of content and sound.
Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk

Smita Sinha:
W: www.serenitywomensclinic.co.uk
I: @serenitywomensclinic

You can watch the full unedited interview on our YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA
Dec 09, 202301:10:52
Menstrual Support & Awareness. Removing the shame and stigma with Big Sis CIC

Menstrual Support & Awareness. Removing the shame and stigma with Big Sis CIC

We have not one but two guests this week, Friedel Fink, founder of Big Sis CIC and Victoria Dufour-Cox of Nature & Me. Big Sis is a not-for-profit social enterprise offering impactful puberty support programmes for girls, non-binary children and mixed gender groups in schools (RSHE) and the community that foster mental health, a positive body image, emotional resilience and a growing self-esteem. Friedel and her team are passionate in finding creative and accessible ways to support young people in pre and puberty. Big Sis run a relational 12 week Girl Mentoring Programme for the ages of 9-13  that has so far supported 180 children, a regular Confidence Club and mum-daughter community groups and they collaborate with schools and community organisations and youth clubs. Victoria is the facilitator, educator & Mentor of Menstrual Cycle Awareness & Youth Empowerment behind Nature & Me. Her wish is for this lived experience to come out of the shadows & remove the shame and stigma attached to it.  She says it is the role of the community to initiate and mentor our young people with rites of passage such as Menarche to support their development & wellbeing on their journey to adulthood.   Book Collective, we continue with Twelve Moons. A Year Under A Shared Sky by Caro Giles, this week we catch up on chapters 10 and 11, Blood Moon and Mourning Moon. The family are thrown into the depths of covid with Caro testing positive, we learn about her struggles being unwell and trying to remain present for her girls.   In the Foodie, Jinty has cooked a wholesome vegetable soup; Recipe 1 chopped onion 1 large chopped carrot 1 400g tin butter beans, drained 1 400g red kidney beans, drained (or any bean of choice). 1/2 tsp chilli powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp oregano, 1/2 tsp turmeric 2 handfuls of washed spinach Small tin sweetcorn 300ml veg stock 700g bottle of Passata 2 tomatoes (chopped) Extra virgin olive oil Juice of 1 lemon Method Cook onions and carrot until softened on a medium heat (around 10-15 mins) Add all the spices and let cook for 1 minute Add chopped tomatoes, Passata, stock & beans Simmer for 10-15 minutes Add lemon juice, spinach & sweetcorn Stir and cook for a further 5 minutes Serve and enjoy  We tell you all about our More Than A Menopause Retreat and we have a fun WI for you to try out. There’s an inspirational quote from Jinty, it’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual sweary shenanigans! So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.   If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast you may like to consider buying us a Ko-Fi at  https://ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast Here you can find updates, photos and some inclusive content we won’t post anywhere else and your donation will help us ensure we continue to bring you great quality of content and sound. Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: https://www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: https://menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk   Big Sis CIC. I: @bigsis.cic W: https://big-sis.co/ W: https://www.natureandme.co.uk/
Dec 02, 202301:08:55
Wild Women with Author & Poet Victoria Bennett.

Wild Women with Author & Poet Victoria Bennett.

Our guest today is author and poet, Victoria Bennett. Her writing spans poetry, memoir and non-fiction, she has written and talked extensively on grief, care, and writing through times of change. In 1999, she founded the internationally celebrated Wild Women Press, an inclusive space focusing on nature, connection and creativity.
Her debut memoir, All My Wild Mothers, is an intimate story of motherhood, a handbook on survival and a testimony to radical hope. Weaving of memoir and herbal folklore, it is a tale of grief and the transformation that can happen when we reconnect with the wild beneath our feet and it has something to teach us about resilience, love, and the power of joyful resistance.
Victoria and her family move to a new social housing estate in rural Cumbria. Here, in the rubble of a former industrial site, she and her young son begin to grow a wild apothecary garden. Gradually they discover that sometimes life grows, not in spite of what is broken, but because of it. You can watch the full unedited interview on our YouTube Channel:
www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA

Ever wondered what happens when you gather a lot of Wild Women together and tell your own stories?
Do we get more creative in Menopause?
Can you plant an Apothecary garden with no experience or money? (Yes you can- find out how Victoria does it).
Did life turn out as you expected? Does it matter if it didn’t?

All these questions are discussed and so much more.

In the Book Collective book of the series, Twelve Moons. A Year Under A Shared Sky by Caro Giles. This week we read chapter 9 Song Moon, Caro’s divorce if final and there’s a birthday to celebrate.

Jinty discovers a beautiful part of her grandmother’s past and Lou talks about a possible link between testosterone and stress incontinence.
There’s a stress relieving WI from Jinty. And you can get involved with fashioning a hat from your Christmas shopping packaging!
There’s an inspirational quote from Lou, it’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual sweary shenanigans! So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.

If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast you may like to consider buying us a Ko-Fi at ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
Here you can find updates, photos and some inclusive content we won’t post anywhere else and your donation will help us ensure we continue to bring you great quality of content and sound.
Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk

Victoria Bennett:
W: victoriabennett.me
W: www.wildwomenpress.com/
I: @beewyld
Nov 18, 202301:15:14
Joint Pain and The Menopause with The Executive Menopause Coach Claire Hattrick

Joint Pain and The Menopause with The Executive Menopause Coach Claire Hattrick

We are so excited to talk to our dear friend and fellow menopause campaigner, Claire Hattrick, The Executive Menopause Coach on today’s podcast. Claire suffered with undiagnosed menopause joint pain for 10 years which left her unable to stand, sit or walk despite being under several consultants who could find nothing wrong. At the same time, she was raising twin daughters on her own. In 2020 Claire decided to make it her mission to teach and educate both women and men about menopause and the possible symptoms that come with it, making sure that no other woman loses years of their life to menopause like she did. The Executive Menopause Coach was launched, helping women in mid-life to navigate the menopause and allowing them space to rediscover their purpose and value. We discuss Menopause and Joint pain, treatment, supplements and HRT. It’s a fun and informative episode. Fun fact- Claire can still do the splits and has appeared on numerous national and local TV programmes, newspapers and women’s magazines with her menopause work (not doing the splits) and now - she can add the Global podcast -Womenkind Collective Podcast to that list!   In the Book Collective book of the series, Twelve Moons. A Year Under A Shared Sky by Caro Giles. This week we read chapter 8 Dispute Moon, we meet the matriarchs of Caro and her girls life.   There’s a fabulous Foodie from Jinty, a spicy butternut squash soup suggested by one of our Collective. You can find the full recipe here: https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/user/482159/recipe/spicy-squash-and-parsnip-soup. We Veganised ours, easy peesy.   Jinty talks vitamin D with a quiz that’s not a quiz and Lou discusses the marketing ban on new born formula milk. There’s an inspirational quote from Jinty, it’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual sweary shenanigans! So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.   If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast you may like to consider buying us a Coffee at  https://ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast Here you can find updates, photos and some inclusive content we won’t post anywhere else and your donation will help us ensure we continue to bring you great quality of content and sound. Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: https://www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: https://menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk   The Executive Menopause Coach: Claire Hattrick W: Info@theexecutivemenopausecoach.com Twitter: @menopausecoach_ Facebook: The Executive Menopause Coach Instagram: @theexecutivemenopausecoach Find out more about hEhlors Danlos Syndrome here https://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=&ved=2ahUKEwil18G237mCAxVcQ0EAHYs4CdsQFnoECBYQAQ&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ehlers-danlos.com%2Fwhat-is-eds%2F&usg=AOvVaw162yW1HgnRH0VKo_5RhvyH&opi=89978449 You can watch the full unedited interview on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA
Nov 11, 202301:08:45
Peri Menopause with Journalist Emily Wood

Peri Menopause with Journalist Emily Wood

We met Emily Wood at BBC Radio Devon in the Summer at their live on air Menopause Cafe. Emily has been presenting the weather on local BBC TV and radio for over 15 years, and also works as a journalist for BBC Radio Devon where she gets to share stories about the amazing people and places in Devon.
Emily asked if she could turn the tables and interview us and get all the questions answered that her and her friends wanted to know about menopause. We obviously said yes!

We ask Emily about what it is like being a working mum in the media and she also tells us some fascinating facts about clouds (you’ll want to know these!). And Emily asks us about Menopause- what exactly is it? How do we know when we are in peri menopause? HRT? And what we would say to our younger pre menopausal selves……. Oh and Chin hairs!

In the Book Collective book of the series, Twelve Moons. A Year Under A Shared Sky by Caro Giles. This week we read chapter 7 Claiming Moon, Caro is beginning to unravel, she’s allowing herself to be vulnerable in this chapter, there’s a camping holiday and also Caro’s birthday to celebrate.

Lou finds some fun news you might have missed this week (dinosaurs on the Isle of Wight) and Jinty has found some new research that has found genetic links between endometriosis and IBS and other gastro-intestinal disorders.
We have been challenged by one of our Collective to a new WI, it’s definitely a giddy one! There’s an inspirational quote from Lou, it’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual sweary shenanigans! So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.

If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast you may like to consider buying us a Ko-Fi at
ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
Here you can find updates, photos and some inclusive content we won’t post anywhere else and your donation will help us ensure we continue to bring you great quality of content and sound.
Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk

Further Info:
thebms.org.uk/
www.balance-menopause.com/
menopausesupport.co.uk
www.womens-health-concern.org

You can watch the interview on our YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA
Nov 04, 202301:03:41
Menopause, Relationships and Divorce with Divorce coach Sally Jackson

Menopause, Relationships and Divorce with Divorce coach Sally Jackson

Menopause is a critical time in a woman’s life and can affect those around us our partners and families. Many people tell us that the relationship with their partner has changed in menopause and in a 2022 research conducted by The Family Law Menopause Project and Newson Health Research and Education, show that 7 in 10 women (who took part in the survey) blame the menopause for the breakdown of their marriage with a further 67% (of the 1000 women taking part) worryingly claiming it increased domestic abuse and arguments. So, we thought who better to talk to about relationships breaking down and how we can hopefully get our personal happy ever after than divorce coach Sally Jackson.
Sally brings a wealth of experience to the podcast her expertise shines as she shares her insights on topics ranging from her own journey through divorce, to the empowering possibilities that midlife presents, as well as the unique challenges tied to menopause and divorce.

For the Book Collective book of the series, Twelve Moons. A Year Under A Shared Sky by Caro Giles. This week we read chapter 6 Mother Moon, this chapter has a completely different feel to the last chapter, there are some beautiful poignant moments from Caro and we celebrate the Caulbearer’s birthday.

It’s Sober October and Jinty discusses alcohol and menopause and the physiological reasons why we can’t drink like we used to.

We have been challenged by one of our Collective to a new WI, there’s an inspirational quote from Jinty, it’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual sweary shenanigans! So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.

If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast you may like to consider buying us a Ko-Fi at
ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
Here you can find updates, photos and some inclusive content we won’t post anywhere else and your donation will help us ensure we continue to bring you great quality of content and sound.
Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk

Sally Jackson:
W: www.sallyjacksoncoaching.com/
L: linkedin.com/in/sallyjacksoncoaching
C: calendly.com/sallyjacksoncoaching/45min
Eventbrite Tickets for Sally’s 2024 Retreat:
www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/your-divorce-your-way-creating-clarity-confidence-and-connections-tickets-726163192657

You can watch the unedited interview on our YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA
Oct 28, 202301:05:21
Oestrogen Implants for Menopause with Victoria Hardy and Cat Jewitt

Oestrogen Implants for Menopause with Victoria Hardy and Cat Jewitt

Today we have not one but two amazing guests, Victoria Hardy, author of My Menopause My Journal My Rules, aka @ginge_unhinged and Cat Jewitt Menopause, nutrition, training and mindset coach, aka menopause_pt. They talk to us about oestrogen implants which they have both had to battle to get, they tried other methods of HRT but it has failed. They are both in early menopause, Victoria went into surgical menopause at 33 years old and Cat went into early menopause at the age of 36, but was told by her GO she was too young to be menopausal. We discuss the procedure, the pros and cons of implants and how oestrogen implants have quite literally saved their lives. You can watch the unedited interview on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA   In the Book Collective we continue with our book, Twelve Moons. A Year Under A Shared Sky by Caro Giles. We read chapter 5, Mothers Moon, it’s a thought provoking chapter with the realisation that life is altering for this family and it will never be the same again.   We have a Foodie Collective for you this week, Lou has actually cooked? It’s a spinach, sweet potato and lentil dhal to warm your cockles as autumn approaches. You can find the full recipe here: https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/spinach-sweet-potato-lentil-dhal   Find out what we learned from the WI challenge. There’s an inspirational quote from Lou, it’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual sweary shenanigans! So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.   If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast you may like to consider buying us a Ko-Fi at  https://ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast Here you can find updates, photos and some inclusive content we won’t post anywhere else and your donation will help us ensure we continue to bring you great quality of content and sound. Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: https://www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: https://menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk   Victoria Hardy I: @ginge_unhinged W: www.gingeunhinged.com B: My Menopause. My Journal. My Rules. https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0CC2XRLLL?ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_JWN42NGQWJ9BRZ24F3GK&language=en-GB   Cat Jewitt I: @menopause_pt W: www.catjewitt.com
Oct 21, 202301:08:58
Celebrating the Female Body Through Art with Women’s Health GP Dr Charlotte Patton

Celebrating the Female Body Through Art with Women’s Health GP Dr Charlotte Patton

We are very excited to be joined today by the wonderful Dr Charlotte Patton who is a Women’s Health GP with a special interest in contraception, sexual health and menopause care.
Charlotte has worked in a sexual health clinic and currently shares her time between an NHS GP practice and a private practice and Derriford Hospital Plymouth, as well as being involved with teaching at both Peninsula Medical school and the University of Exeter.
This year, Charlotte has started teaching a ‘Student Selected Unit’ in medical humanities at the University of Exeter to fourth year medical students. It is entitled ‘Celebrating the female body through art’ and we find out how this came about and the significant implications it could have in helping to reduce stigma and break down barriers in the context of the female body. We also ask Charlotte about where her passion for womens health came from, her favourite female artists and she talks with us about Menopause, sex and taboo and more!

In the Book Collective we continue with our book, Twelve Moons. A Year Under A Shared Sky by the phenomenal Caro Giles. We read chapter 4, Hare Moon, and it is the Mermaid’s birthday as the world is opening up again after lockdown.

Jinty discusses OCD and the myths surrounding this disorder and asks you to visit:
www.ocduk.org/ to gain a better understanding and of the obsessions and compulsions of this disorder that affects as many as 12 in every 1,000 people.

Find out how the WI challenge went and there’s a new WI that you can get involved in. There’s an inspirational quote from Jinty.
It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual sweary shenanigans! So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.

If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast you may like to consider buying us a Ko-Fi at ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
Here you can find updates, photos and some inclusive content we won’t post anywhere else and your donation will help us ensure we continue to bring you great quality of content and sound.

Dr Charlotte Patton:
I: @cornwall_womens_doctor
W: stermemedical.uk/about-us/

Katy Hessel Book The story of Art without Men we discussed www.hive.co.uk/Product/Katy-Hessel/The-Story-of-Art-without-Men--The-instant-Sunday-Times-bestseller/26872928
And the Japanese Artist Charlotte talked about is Rokudenashiko - artistsatriskconnection.org/story/rokudenashiko

Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk

you can watch the full unedited interview on our YouTube Channel: www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA
Oct 14, 202301:14:03
Vulval Lichen Sclerosus with Patient Expert Clare Baumhauer

Vulval Lichen Sclerosus with Patient Expert Clare Baumhauer

Our guest this week is a dear friend of the ours and the podcast, Clare Baumhauer. Clare talks to us about Vulval Lichen Sclerosus (LS) which is a chronic inflammatory condition, with incidence peaking in childhood and post-menopause. Clare was diagnosed with Vulval lichen sclerosus and stage 3 Vulval cancer at 43 but had first noticed symptoms at the age of 5 years old. She now spends most of her spare time raising awareness around Vulval Cancer and lichen sclerosus. You can watch the full unedited interview on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA   In the Book Collective we read chapter 3 of Twelve Moons. A Year Under A Shared Sky by Caro Giles. The Lenten Moon, Caro writes about the Sarah Everard murder and how it effects women, she writes so eloquently about that time in history. We hear from 2 of our listeners that are reading along with the book club.   The Foodie is a souper soup, pea and spinach a recipe from one of our Collective, Rachael. Ingredients: 1 fist sized potato. 1 medium onion. 100g frozen peas. 100g frozen spinach. Stock cube. Water. Seasoning. Method: In a soup maker: Peel and chop the potato and onion, add all the other ingredients with enough water to just cover, set to smooth. In a pan: Peel and chop the potato and onion, add the water and boil until tender; add the other ingredients; bring back to the boil; blend until smooth.   It’s Sober October and Jinty delves into the world of fantastic drinking phrases, do you know where the phrase Dutch Courage comes? And Lou finds out about the Canary girls from WW2.   Lou recites her WI from Jinty, a taboo poem, all about bum hair! There’s a new WI that you can get involved in, it’s an up and downer one! There’s an inspirational quote from Lou, lots of your words and comments, it’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans. So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.   If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast you may like to consider buying us a coffee at  https://ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast Here you can find updates, photos and some inclusive content we won’t post anywhere else and your donation will help us ensure we continue to bring you great quality of content and sound.   Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: https://www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: https://menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk   Clare Baumhauer: F: Lichen Sclerosus & Vulval Cancer UK Awareness T: @vulvalcancerUK I: @vulvalcancerukawareness
Oct 07, 202301:19:48
Bone and Gut Health – How are The Two Are Connected? With Emma Ellice-Flint

Bone and Gut Health – How are The Two Are Connected? With Emma Ellice-Flint

You won't want to miss this chat with the wonderful Emma Ellice- Flint of @emmasnutrition a qualified nutritionist, nutritional therapist and experienced chef. Emma was one of our first guests way back in series 1.
Emma is passionate about gut health and has been looking into some research on bone health in relation to gut micro biome and function, and how bone health might be affected by gut health. In this episode Emma explains the four ways that our gut micro biome affects our Bone health.
We talk about leaky gut, inflammation, and our immune system. Emma explains the effects by and on Oestrogen. How we might improve both out bone and gut health and much more, it's honestly a mind blowing conversation and Emma’s passion shines through.
Emma seeks to combine science, research and the deliciousness of food together to help women embrace change. Emma is passionate about women’s health and how nutrition can bring about positive changes and healing, especially in perimenopause and menopause.
You can watch the full (un-edited) interview on our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA

In the Book Collective we continue with Caro Giles memoir, Twelve Moons. A Year Under A Shared Sky. We enter chapter 2 and Caro gently introduces us to parts of her life, her girls and her parents. It’s a reflective and thought provoking chapter.

In the Foodie one of our Collective has a tasty and nutritious soup for us to try.
Find out how Lou got on with her WI. There’s an inspirational quote from Jinty, it’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans. So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.

If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast you may like to consider buying us a Ko-Fi at ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
Here you can find updates, photos and some inclusive content we won’t post anywhere else and your donation will help us ensure we continue to bring you great quality of content and sound.

Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk

Emma Elice Flint:
W: emmasnutrition.com/
I: @emmas_nutrition
F: @Emma’s Nutrition
Sep 23, 202301:20:51
The Pill. A Stroke And Taboo Poetry with Author and Poet Holly McComish

The Pill. A Stroke And Taboo Poetry with Author and Poet Holly McComish

Our guest today Holly McComish, an author, poet, producer and women’s health ambassador from East London.
At the age of 25 Holly suffered a Stroke due to the combined contraceptive pill and became determined to publish a poetry book that could raise awareness around women’s health issues.
And in January this year her debut book, ‘If Tits Could Talk’ was published.
Hollys book is a fun and relatable poetry collection that also holds important health messages. The book uses wit, rhyme and vibrant illustrations to discuss smear tests, contraception, STI’s, Menopause and the need to be breast aware and more. It’s the perfect read for any woman.
Holly’s work was discovered and platformed by world renowned poet Rupi Kaur and has been praised by the likes of Davina McCall and Dame Kelly Holmes, as well as numerous women’s health charities such as CoppaFeel and The Pink Ribbon Foundation. If Tits Could Talk is now currently stocked in over 50 independent bookshops across the UK and here
www.amazon.co.uk/Tits-Could-Talk-Holly-McComish/dp/1399943693

In the Book Collective we read chapter 1 of Twelve Moons. A Year Under A Shared Sky by Caro Giles. The first chapter is Wolf Moon, a time of deep self-reflection which Caro does beautifully in this chapter, her life now in January 2021 as a single mum with four girls in Northumberland and an insight into her life as an 18 year old partying in Guildford.

The Foodie launches with a tasty gazpacho from Jinty, this chilled tomato and vegetable cold soup is brimming with goodness. You can find the recipe on the link: cookieandkate.com/ultimate-gazpacho-recipe/

Our WI, playing the card game Patience, can you shuffle and play? There’s a new WI that you can get involved in, there’s an inspirational quote from Lou, it’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans. So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.

If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast you may like to consider buying us a Ko-Fi at ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
Here you can find updates, photos and some inclusive content we won’t post anywhere else and your donation will help us ensure we continue to bring you great quality of content and sound.

Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk

Holly McComish: Book. If Tits Could Talk. A collection of poetry.
I: @holly_mccomish

You can watch the full interview on our Womenkind Collective YouTube channel: www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA
Sep 16, 202301:12:47
Menopause and Astrology - with Astrologer Jenny Harkman

Menopause and Astrology - with Astrologer Jenny Harkman

Welcome back to series 8 and the 100th episode of the Womenkind Collective Podcast.
We are kickstarting this series off with a topic that is rarely known or discussed, Astrology and Menopause, can your Menopause be mapped out in the stars? Can your horoscope give you clues to how your menopause is or will be? Jenny tells us that we can indeed link menopause and astrology.
Jenny has trained in ancient astrology, and is able to unlock the secrets hidden within your birth chart to give you any answers you may seek about who you are and what you're likely to experience in this lifetime. We look at the relationship between the stars and menopause.
We learn that Saturn brings the challenges that teach us more about ourselves, and why you shouldn’t make big decisions when Mercury is in retrograde.
We also learn how the moon’s cycle’s affect us and how we can use this as a tool for a life of contentment and acceptance of dark and light.
Jenny has a discounted birth chart reading, at the moment running until the 9th of October usually the cost is £115 for an hours reading but it’s currently £69, you can message Jenny directly for this offer, details are at the bottom of the show notes.
You can watch Jenny’s full interview on our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA

In this episode we also discuss breakthrough bleeding in post menopause, talking of blood we find out the most and least absorbent period products on the market.
We announce a new Foodie and ask for your recipes, in the Book Collective we launch our book for this series, Twelve Moons. A Year Under A Shared Sky by Caro Giles and published by Harper Collins. We will read the first chapter for next week. Join us please.

How did you get on with our WI, Pocket Lists over the summer? There’s a new WI that you can get involved in, there’s an inspirational quote from Jinty, it’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans. So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.

If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast you may like to consider buying us a Ko-Fi at ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
Here you can find updates, photos and some inclusive content we won’t post anywhere else and your donation will help us ensure we continue to bring you great quality of content and sound.

Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk

Jenny Harkman:
W: www.conversationswiththegods.com/
I: @conversations_with_the_gods
Sep 09, 202301:03:17
Migraines with specialist, Dr Rebecca Walker

Migraines with specialist, Dr Rebecca Walker

It’s our Podcast series 7 finalé and our guest this week is a friend of ours Dr Rebecca Walker, she is an experienced GP with expertise in Menopause care, Migraine and Headache medicine, we talk all things migraine and Dr Becky de-bunks myths surrounding migraines.
Find out how a migraine is diagnosed, and could your dizzy spells be vestibular migraine? Dr Becky tells us about the newest migraine medication and how migraines can develop or worsen in peri menopause. We ask if different HRT preparations affect different types of migraine. And do you think a migraine is always a headache? The answer may surprise you.
Dr Walker works as an NHS GP in Devon and is part of a team of specialist GPs at the Exeter Headache Clinic, a National Health service for people with complex headache conditions. Becky is also a senior clinician with the National Migraine Centre, a specialist charity supporting people with migraine. As if that’s not enough she is part of the team at Myla Health who provide individualised private menopause support.
Dr Walker enjoys sharing her learning and teaches on Headache Medicine and Menopause to GPs, and to students at Exeter Medical School. She has also written articles on menopause and migraine.
We’ve been fortunate enough to meet with Becky several times in the past few months since she moved to Devon, and what a pleasure it has been so we asked her to join us on the podcast to talk about migraines and hormones, particularly in menopause. You can watch the full interview on our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA

Have you heard of the Malaya Lola’s? These were a group of teens and children snatched from their homes and imprisoned and raped during WW2. These girls were called ‘comfort women’ and were abused by Japanese soldiers in the Japanese Imperial Army. Jinty uncovers the Filipino women’s story.

Foodie - as we conclude our theme for this month we have a traditional shortbread recipe from Sainsbury’s. Click the link for the full recipe: www.sainsburysmagazine.co.uk/recipes/baking/classic-shortbread
Find out how Lou got it so very wrong!

Book Collective we announce our book for series 8 and it’s from the wonderful Caro Giles: Twelve Moons. A Year Under A Shared Sky published by Harper Collins.

There’s a new WI that you can get involved in, there’s an inspirational quote from Jinty and have you ever experienced an eargasms? It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans. So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.


ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
Dr Rebecca Walker:
I: dr_rebeccawalker
W: www.nationalmigrainecentre.org.uk/
Jul 22, 202301:09:35
Finding Joy, with Karen Arthur

Finding Joy, with Karen Arthur

Our guest this week is the one and only Karen Arthur. Karen hosts the podcast Menopause Whilst Black, a platform committed to diversifying Menopause and sharing the stories of Black menopausal women in the UK. She now graces the cover of magazines, and speaks knowledgeably and passionately on a range of topics including, fashion, creativity, menopause and mental wellbeing. She is changing the Menopause narrative.
Karen says she is “a Black woman who refuses to become invisible in post menopause” she is passionate about taking up space via vibrant fashion and public art. This unapologetic visibility helps other women, particularly those who look like Karen, to find their own voice.

Karen taught dance then textiles for 28 years but had to leave it behind when her Menopause came- and along with it - anxiety and depression. From a teacher to a designer Karen was able to move into Fashion, working exclusively with women to create beautiful bespoke clothing that made them feel good and stand tall. She is also a Mother and a Grandmother.
And, as if all that is not enough, In May this year Karen hosted -The Joy Retreat in Barbados, the world’s FIRST retreat created for Black people in any stage of menopause (website link below). We absolutely loved our chat with Karen, we talk about all the above plus we ask Karen how the Menopause landscape has changed since she began her podcast, and much more, you can catch the full unedited interview on our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA?app=desktop

In the Book Collective we conclude Femina by Janina Ramirez. We read the final chapter Exceptional and Outcast and it’s all about diversity and trans gender in the fourteenth century. It’s an exceptional end to a magnificent book

There’s a Foodie as it’s national Picnic month, Jinty has cooked up a delicious fruity apple flapjack. www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/apple-flapjacksIngredients:
Click the link to take you to the recipe.

There’s a poetic WI that you can get involved in, there’s an inspirational quote from Lou and Jinty delves into belly buttons, and belly button fluff, do you know the mythological Gods and Goddesses for the days of the week? It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans. So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.
ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk

Karen Arthur:
W. www.thekarenarthur.com
I: @thekarenarthur
I: @menopausewhilstblack
Jul 15, 202301:19:26
Prolapse and the Pelvic Floor with physio Victoria Caulfield

Prolapse and the Pelvic Floor with physio Victoria Caulfield

Our guest this week has so much wisdom to impart and we absolutely loved our chat Devon based Postpartum Physio, Victoria Caulfield. In February this year the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists (RCOG)  published a policy statement identifying key opportunities to tackle pelvic floor dysfunction through improved education and access to information. They say pelvic health support should be tailored to the individual, and be provided from a young age and throughout women’s lives. The RCOG are calling for action to reduce the number of women living with poor pelvic floor health, revealing new data that over 60% of UK women have at least one symptom of poor pelvic floor health, worryingly, one in four women have never done pelvic floor exercises that can prevent and improve symptoms. Victoria’s passion is educating women about good pelvic health through current research and working with people who may be experiencing symptoms. This can be anything from painful sex to urinary incontinence, prolapse, perimenopause symptoms and postnatal rehabilitation. Her current caseload of women she's supporting ranges from 19 years old to 75, and tells us that  ‘good pelvic health is for life and for everybody!’ This episode includes everything you need to know about prolapse and pelvic floor health, we discuss Pelvic Organ Prolapse and Victoria explains the different types, the symptoms and sensations along side the non invasive treatments and exercises. Plus she tells us why she doesn’t like the word ‘prolapse’. Pessaries, local oestrogen and the squatty potty are all in here! Victoria tells us about hypertonic pelvic floors, and how a blueberry can help support our pelvic health, and much much more! If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast please consider buying us a Ko-Fi. This helps us ensure we bring you quality of content and sound. https://ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast You can watch the full interview on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA   In our Book Collective we continue reading Femina by Janina Ramirez. This week we catch up on chapters, 7 Kings and Diplomats and 8 Entrepreneurs and Influencers. We meet a female King; Jadwiga of Poland and we meet Margery Kempe an extraordinary medieval woman from Kings Lynn.   There’s a fantastic quote from Jinty and we find out what a penis push-up is and why it can play a role in getting a better sex life. We look at why village halls are closing thanks to the jobsworths in government. It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans. So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.   Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: https://www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: https://menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk     Victoria Postpartum Physio: Instagram: @victoria_postpartum_physio Website: www.thepostpartumphysio.co.uk
Jul 08, 202301:15:46
Modern Menopause (Out loud) with Jan Scott & Diana Phillips

Modern Menopause (Out loud) with Jan Scott & Diana Phillips

Our guests this week are Jan Scott and Diana Phillips who host the Windrose World retreats, They are on a mission to debunk the myths and stigmas that surround menopause. We had such a fun chat with these two fabulous women! They share a lifetime of friendship and are now creating space for menopausal women around the world. After 30+ years of film production in Hollywood with 20 of those teaching yoga, Jan Scott has learnt how to let the pendulum swing between chaos and Zen. At 30, Jan was producing films in Hollywood and living on the beach in Malibu. She spent a month in Kenya with the Maasai tribes which triggered an obsession with saying ‘yes’ to the “unknown adventure”. Diana Phillips grew up wanting to join the circus. When she graduated with a degree in Journalism from the University of Kentucky she did just that and devoted her career to the 3-ring big top of advertising. As a creative director she made campaigns at basecamp in the Himalayas, visited Milan and Hamburg and the deserts of Morocco. Practicing Yoga converted a life of chaos and excess to one of balance. Yoga became even more of a support when Diana’s menopause hit. Diana had every symptom, every day for about 8 years. Their combined love of yoga and a commitment to empower women through menopause has driven these two meno warriors to run beautiful retreats around the world. Jan & Diana tell us about the Menopause conversation Stateside and how they plan a US ‘tour’ of retreats for 2024 with Naomi Watts I am Stripes. They tell us about their own Menopause Journeys and we learn about the difficulties of hot flushes and menopause symptoms in the corporate world. They have some great tips for us for running our own ‘More than a Menopause Seaside Retreat too’ Lots of laughs and conversation that will resonate with most menopausers. You can watch the full unedited interview on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA   Book Collective we continue with Femina by Janina Ramirez this week we read chapter 6, Spies and Outlaws where we meet the Cathar women, with their holistic approach to life and their interpretation of the bible, the Catholic church at the time hunted them down as heretics.   In the Foodie Collective Jinty has once again been baking biscuits in the kitchen and this week she has made Mary Berry’s Fork biscuits with 3 ingredients. https://thehappyfoodie.co.uk/recipes/fork-biscuits/   There’s a fantastic quote from Lou and we find out why the shingles vaccine really is a game changer for women when it comes to Alzheimer’s (https://www.medrxiv.org/content/10.1101/2023.05.23.23290253v1 ). We discuss clothes poverty and the unbelievable amount of clothes that go to landfill. We have a special musical treat when Jinty gets out her recorder! It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans. So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.  If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast please consider buying us a Ko-Fi. This helps us ensure we bring you quality of content and sound. https://ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: https://www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: https://menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk   Jan Scott & Diana Phillips Windrose Retreats: W: https://windroseworld.com/ E: hello@windroseworld.com I: @the_windrose_world
Jun 17, 202301:17:40
Metabolic Syndrome and Menopause with Dr Carys Sonnenberg

Metabolic Syndrome and Menopause with Dr Carys Sonnenberg

Our guest this week is Dr Carys Sonnenberg, a highly qualified and experienced GP and menopause doctor, with a passion for women’s health.
Carys qualified as a doctor in 1996 and has been a GP for over 20 years specialising in women’s health and menopause. She runs a women’s health clinic in her NHS practice where she helps patients manage their contraception, PMS, PCOS, endometriosis, and menopause.
Carys founded Rowena Health so that she could also provide top-quality care to more women and set up a clinic where she can practice at the highest standard.

Last year we met Dr Carys Sonnenberg in Parliament Square at the Menopause Rally and instantly knew we wanted to have a longer Menopause chat for the podcast. Dr Carys wants women to live life to the fullest in menopause and tells us that our metabolic health is not something we can see and it’s not a sexy topic but it is very important for our future health.
We find out that there are around 3.5 million women living with a heart or circulatory disease (including heart disease and stroke) in the UK. Heart attacks kill an average of more than 70 women every day and people from some ethnic backgrounds are more prone to insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome.

So what is Metabolic syndrome?
Have you ever been told that your body has become resistant to the hormone insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels?
Are you concerned about High blood pressure?
Has your waistline got bigger in menopause, is it greater than 80cm?
Do you have unhealthy levels of blood fats ?
These are a collection of ‘health risk factors’, and having three of these might suggest you have metabolic syndrome.
Dr Carys explains what Metabolic Syndrome has to do with Menopause, what exactly insulin does and what insulin resistance is and how it affects us, now and longer term health. Plus what we can do about it, Metabolic syndrome is not to be feared but learned from.
We also ask Carys about Statins and high cholesterol an more.
This is a conversation you don’t want to miss.

We continue with our Book Collective, Femina by Janina Ramirez and this week we chat about chapter 5- Polymaths and Scientists. We meet Hildegard a medieval nun who writes about orgasms, advocates for abortion and describes her Visions/menopause migraines? There’s a book heist too - it’s a humdinger of a chapter!

One of our lovely collective has sent in a biscuit recipe for our Foodie Collective, Grantham Ginger Bread.
Ingredients:
100 grs butter or margarine. 350 grs caster sugar. 1 egg, beaten. 250 grs self-raising flour. 5 ml ground ginger.
Method:
Grease and line 2 baking sheets. Heat oven to 150°. Cream butter and sugar together in a bowl until pale and fluffy. Gradually beat in the egg. Sift the ginger and flour into the mix work in with a fork to form a dough. Roll the dough into walnut size balls. Place on the baking sheets apart. Bake for 40-45 minutes.

There’s a fantastic quote from Jinty and we meet the vigilante group of women from Enfield North London that are keeping their children safe on the streets. We look at the harmful chemicals in some sunscreens and the Gender Health gap of the week! It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans. So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.


.To watch the full un-edited interview, go to our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA
Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk

Dr Carys Sonnenberg:
W: rowenahealth.co.uk/author/carysadmin01
I: @drcaryssonnenberg
I: @rowenahealth_menopausecare
F: Rowena Health Menopause
Jun 10, 202301:29:09
Drink Spiking with the founder of Stamp Out Spiking – Dawn Dines

Drink Spiking with the founder of Stamp Out Spiking – Dawn Dines

This week we look into drink spiking with the founder of Stamp Out Spiking, Dawn Dines. A 2022 a YouGov poll found that one in nine women and one in 17 men in the UK  have been the victim of drink spiking. Stamp Out Spiking are a charity dedicated to reducing drink spiking incidents in the UK and beyond through campaigning and educational work, along with their anti-drink spiking protective lids, StopTopps. Their vision is to educate people about the dangers of spiking and the fact it's never acceptable. They offer resources and solutions that will help people to stay safe until drink spiking is no more. In our chat with Dawn she tells us how her journey to Stamp out Spiking began in 1989 when she managed to escape a spiking incident by climbing through a bathroom window and how she knows first hand what it feels like to have your drink spiked. Dawn and her team, based in Exeter, Devon are committed to exposing the true extent of this appalling crime and make it clear that it’s utterly unacceptable. Dawn explains to us the dangers of spiking because if we are aware then we are better equipped to prevent spiking incidents from happening. Stamp out spiking is challenging the Police to make victims feel more welcome and remove any perceived barriers to the reporting of spiking incidents and Dawn has been campaigning to make Spiking a crime in itself since 2004(please sign the petition below) Dawn is passionate about empowering young people to keep themselves safe, and explains in this episode what her team does and how they run educational workshops on alcohol & drug awareness, knife crime & anti-social behaviour, cyberbullying and internet safety. She also works with local authorities, supporting children in care and in secure units. We ask Dawn about her drink spiking campaigning locally and around the world, she has a passion for travelling and this has led her see first-hand the effects of Drink Spiking globally. This is a great conversation with an amazing activist and campaigner who won’t stop until she has Stamped Out Spiking for good.   In the Book Collective we continue with our book of the series, Femina by Janina Ramirez. This week we discuss chapter 4 Artists and Patrons, we learn the Bayeux Tapestry isn’t perhaps what you think it is……We discuss the nuns that embroidered large penises on the men and horses and learn that Queen Emma was the richest most powerful woman in England.   There’s a fantastic quote from Lou and we discuss blood cancers and do you know the symptoms? Plus how a survey has revealed having a thyroid problem can cause low libido. Are you fed up with doing all the cooking in the house? We discuss this and so much more! It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans. So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.   Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: https://www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: https://menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk   Stamp Out Spiking: Website: www.sosglobal.org Petition to change the law: https://www.change.org/StopSpikingbeinganinvisibleoffence National Spiking Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/7S27CQH A Victim's Journey Instagram: @stampoutspiking Facebook: @sosglobal
Jun 03, 202359:14
Living with Endometriosis & Adenomyosis with The Menstrual Health Project

Living with Endometriosis & Adenomyosis with The Menstrual Health Project

Our guests today are 29 year old Anna Cooper and 30 year old Gabz Pearson, both Endometriosis sufferers who struggled for years with symptoms and were only diagnosed after years of misdiagnosis and professional gaslighting. In this open and honest chat we discover how Anna, mum to a 7 year old daughter, has had 15 operations due to endometriosis and the length of time it took to diagnose and operate. She tells us that because of the years she was dismissed and told by several Health care professionals, including a Gynaecologist that she did not have Endometriosis, the tissue grew, damaging her bowel and bladder irreparably. Anna explains how this has impacted her both physically, emotionally and mentally. We chat with Gabz about her experiences leading up to her endo diagnosis and how since then she has been diagnosed with Fibromyalgia, IBS, Adenomyosis, chronic back pain and bulging discs. She tells us about her difficult decision around her fertility and a hysterectomy and the impact of chronic pain and medical menopause. Anna and Gabz connected on social media, becoming Instagram friends and bonding through the mutual demon of Endometriosis. They have become more like family and no long just cyber pals We ask them how the Menstrual Health Project began, and like all the best projects, they answer ‘around the dining room table one day……’ They feel frustrated & deflated at the lack of information and support and don’t want any other young girls at the beginning their menstrual journey to suffer as they have. It’s a difficult yet inspiring conversation and another reason Lou & Jinty have faith in this younger generation to make the changes that are so needed in Womens Health. The Menstrual Health Project a charity who’s mission it is to provide practical support for those suffering with menstrual health concerns and conditions through educational tools & resources to help people navigate more accurately and comfortably through whatever stage in life they are at, they want people to feel heard, empowered and informed. You can watch the full un-edited interview on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA. Find Anna & Gabz here-  Menstrual health Project: https://www.menstrualhealthproject.org.uk Instagram: @mentrualhealthproject Facebook: Menstrual health Project E: hello@menstrualhealthproject.org.uk In the Book Collective we delve into chapter 3 of Femina by Janina Ramirez, we learn how the patriarchy wrote the female Viking warriors out of history and how gender fluidity is nothing new., some great Norse stories, Thor in a dress? And Thanks to the advancement in science and DNA remains found of the Birka warrior are now confirmed as female. It’s a chapter both Jinty & Lou loved, as you will be able to tell when you listen!   The Foodie this week is a tasty vegan biscuit recipe from the Six Vegan Sisters. https://www.sixvegansisters.com/2022/02/20/giant-loaded-peanut-butter-cookies/#wprm-recipe-container-20019   There’s a fantastic quote from Jinty, we find out about a new drug to help with hot flushes, and as it’s national skin cancer awareness month we look into some shocking SPF and skin cancer statistics, oh and do you know the difference between a twiffler and a muffin? There’s the WI, find out how Lou got on with her Bee sleeping supplements. It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans. So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.   If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast please consider buying us a Ko-Fi. This helps us ensure we bring you quality of content and sound. https://ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast  
May 27, 202301:13:18
Twelve Moons. The power that lies in our often hidden daily lives. With author Caro Giles

Twelve Moons. The power that lies in our often hidden daily lives. With author Caro Giles

Caro Giles is a writer based in Northumberland. Her words are inspired by her local landscape, the wide empty beaches and the Cheviot Hills. She writes honestly about what it means to be a woman, a mother, a parent-carer and the value in taking the road less travelled.
Her first book is a powerful and beautifully written memoir, Twelve Moons. A Year Under A Shared Sky, which follows the lunar calendar, each chapter sharing a month and a moon, and shows the simmering power that lies in our often hidden daily lives. It’s a dazzlingly honest memoir that while never turning away from the awkward truths of life, also shows how love will flourish if we can only find a space for ourselves. Its a book about finding yourself, your voice and a sense that even in the dark of the night, we are never truly alone.
Caro has had to navigate a new life for herself and her four daughters: The Mermaid, The Whirlwind, The Caulbearer and The Littlest One, bound by circumstance, financial constraints, illness and the challenges of single motherhood.
We ask her about her love of and the grounding force of the Moon and nature, and we discuss losing and rediscovering our sense of self either as a parent/carer or as a woman in menopause.
Caro’s family have complex needs and she tells us the difficulties of navigating the health and educational system in a world that is not made for a family that may look a little different.
Caro is wonderfully honest about her own anxiety and OCD and how she manages this, her self care is all about creativity, singing, writing and of course spending time with the moon. We talk about coming to terms with being scared of the dark yet how the dark is also nurturing.
Even with the daily challenges of her circumstances, she manages to carve out a small amount of time in a day for something creative, and she encourages us all to ‘write ourselves back in to our own book’.
Caro has a sharp mind that is always thinking of the next thing, and there’s always a next thing, find out what’s next for Caro.

‘Kittiwakes shriek at us across the rocks as we huddle nound the barbecue, crouching in towels that are wet at the edges where they have been dipped in rock pools. These are the moments that I hope will be stored inside my daughters' heads until they are old ladies. These are the moments I wrap up and gift to the girls as a token of a love that is wider than than the sea we are staring at. These are the moments’
You can also watch the interview on our Womenkind Collective YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA

In the Book Collective we delve into chapter 2 of Femina by Janina Ramirez and we meet Æthelflæd Queen of Mercia and how centuries after her death she was still thought of as one of the most influential women in England, who has since been written out of history, or has she???

There’s a fantastic quote from Lou. The scone/skohn/skorn debate rages on. We find out about the incredible women of the Ukrainian resistance movement.
As the Eve appeal launch their Gynaecological #Get Lippy campaign we look at some shocking statistics from Flo Health.
There’s the WI, find out how we got on with our Hat-Trick.
It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans. So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.


If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast please consider buying us a Ko-Fi. This helps us ensure we bring you quality of content and sound.
ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast


Caro Giles: Twelve Moons. A year under a shared sky: Harper Collins
Instagram: @carogileswrites
Twitter: @CaroGilesWrites
May 20, 202301:09:39
Living with a Chronic UTI with Ella Tallyn

Living with a Chronic UTI with Ella Tallyn

In this Episode we meet Ella Tallyn who contacted us after listening to an Episode in series 6, with Dr Aziza Sesay, where we touched on Chronic Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). Ella told us how this illness had changed her life and wondered if it might help others if she described her own experience and what she has learned so far. Ella explains how in January 2021, after a long period of intense stress during the pandemic, she began to feel the burning sensations of an acute UTI. She also had visible blood in her urine. After a 7-day course of anti-biotics within 24 hrs after the infection returned which then developed into a Chronic, embedded UTI. Ella believes what happened in the early period of the UTI was critical and explains what she wishes she had known then. We learn what happens in the body when you have a chronic UTI and how it differs from an acute or recurring UTI. Ella is keen to share her experience with getting the correct diagnosis, finding a specialist, how a chronic UTI can affect your mental health and what she has found that support her. Ella generously shares her advice for anyone who find themselves dealing with this diagnosis. Two years on and the infection remains remarkably untouched by treatments, Ella rarely has a moment that she is not in debilitating pain, it has impacted all aspects of her life and she is on long term sick leave from her job in academia yet far from this being a lugubrious story it is one of hope, strength and acceptance. You can watch the full interview on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA   In the Book Collective we begin reading Femina by Janina Ramirez, and chapter 1 - Movers and Shakers, sets the scene for the women of the 5th and 6th Century and how without some fearless women early Christianity would not have grown and spread in England. We meet the women that made change happen, Bertha and Hilde it’s a magnificent start to our book this series.   The Foodie Collective: we continue with biscuits and Jinty has delved into Nigella Lawson’s The Domestic Goddess to bake her Maple Pecan Biscuits. Ingredients: 250grs of unsalted butter (or vegan option). 125 grs light muscovado sugar. 1 tsp of maple extract (or maple syrup). 350grs self-raising flour. 75grs Pecan halves. 2 x baking sheets lined. Method: Pre heat the oven to 170°.  Cream the butter and sugar. Add maple extract and flour. Roll into walnut size balls. Press down the balls with a lightly oiled base of a glass. Place on the baking sheets 5cm apart. Place a pecan half on every biscuit. Cook for 15 mins. Leave on the baking sheet for 1 to 2 mins then transfer to a wire rack to cool.   Find out how we got on with our tea WI and there’s a new Hat-Trick one to try out this week!   We discuss the new MREF charity founded by Fiona Clark, Diane Danzebrink & Vikram Talaulikar, the charity has been set up to fund research into menopause, fund education for health care professionals  and ensure women have access to accurate and evidence based information about menopause and health. There’s a fantastic quote from Jinty. We talk scones and why you should always carry a bottle of wine in the car on long journeys. It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans. So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.  If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast please consider buying us a Ko-Fi. This helps us ensure we bring you quality of content and sound. https://ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast For further information on chronic UTI’s: Chronic UTI support websites: Cutic.co.uk Chronicutiinfo.com Chronicutiglobalsupport.com   Good books to read: Cystitis Unmasked by Professor James Malone-Lee Teach Us to Sit Still by Tim Parks
May 13, 202301:31:12
Nutrition and Lifestyle in Menopause with Dietitian’s Elizabeth Ward & Hillary Wright

Nutrition and Lifestyle in Menopause with Dietitian’s Elizabeth Ward & Hillary Wright

We’re back for series 7 of the Womenkind Collective Podcast and this week’s guests are dieticians Elizabeth Ward and Hilary wright from the Menopause Diet Plan. When discussing Menopause with various people (as we do quite a lot) the phrase ‘getting through menopause’ or ‘I look forward to getting to the other side’ are common but what is this ‘other side’? And does I it actually exist?
Well, our guests today are going to explain all about what we need to do to keep ourselves healthy through our menopause journey. They know all about supporting people in menopause through positive lifestyle choices, Good friends Elizabeth Ward and Hillary Wright are both registered dieticians, each with over thirty years’ experience. The two both hold bachelor degrees in nutrition and dietetics from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and Masters from Boston University and we had such a great time chatting to them.
You can watch the full, unedited, interview on our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA

In our Foodie Collective we talk all things biscuits, who doesn’t like a good biscuit to dunk? Find out what our favourite biscuits are and Jinty has a little quiz….if she can remember the answers!

Our Book Club starts reading our new book for series 7, Femina by Jannina Ramirez. We start by looking at the introduction and we’re hooked already; this book gives voice to the influential women of the Middle Ages who have been silenced by the male gatekeepers for far too long.

Find out how we got on with our WI and there’s a new tasty one to try out this week!

There’s a fantastic quote to start the series with. It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans. So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.


If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast please consider buying us a Ko-Fi. This helps us ensure we bring you quality of content and sound.
ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
May 06, 202301:24:32
The Book Club with guest Aline Boblin

The Book Club with guest Aline Boblin

In todays’ episode we finish our Book Collective for the series, Rebel Bodies, A Guide to the Gender Health Revolution by Sarah Graham we are joined by one of our lovely Collective, Aline Boblin. Aline founded the Transformation in Action CIC whose vision is, ‘A World where menopause is an empowerment, a time to thrive, an opportunity for ne3w beginnings and adventures. We discuss the chapters of Sarah Grahams book that have made the most impact on us.
Aline tells us how this book has changed her, and we discover how Sarah has woken us up to some hidden biases of our own.
We talk about the hope we have for the future and how the younger generation are speaking up instead of putting up with the status quo.

You can watch the full interview on our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA

Jinty discovers that you can now swim topless in swimming pools in Berlin Germany thanks to Lotte Mies. Do you have misophonia, we discuss why in menopause you can become sensitive to noise.
Do you know who Celia Payne is? Lou discovers that her ground breaking scientific work was not only discredited but stolen by a man.

In the Foodie Collective we continue with our NICE BUNS and this week we make Marzipan Hot Cross Buns.
Ingredients:
Buns: 300ml milk. 50 grs butter 500 grs strong white bread flour. 1 sachet instant yeast.75 grs brown sugar. 1 tsp mixed spice. 1 tsp cinnamon. 1 tsp salt. 3 eggs. 150grs sultanas. 80 grs mixed peel. Zest of 1 orange. Zest of 1 lemon, juice of ½. 140grs icing sugar. 75grs caster sugar. 200 grs ground almonds. 2 tbs apricot jam.
Method:
Line a baking tray with parchment. Gently heat the milk and butter in a saucepan until melted, allow to cool. Mix the flour, yeast, brown sugar, mixed spice, salt and cinnamon in a bowl. Make a well and crack in 1 egg, add the cooled milk/butter mixture. Combine to make a sticky dough. Add the sultanas, mix peel, lemon and orange zest. Pop the dough back in the bowl, cover and leave to prove I a warm place for about an hour so it doubles in size.
Make the marzipan, mix the icing sugar, caster sugar, 1 egg, ground almonds and lemon juice. Bring together in a ball. Allow to chill in the fridge for 30 mins.
Knock the air out the dough and form into 12 round balls, place on the baking tray. Cover and allow to rise for 1 hour.
Preheat the oven to 190 degrees, cut off 1/3 of the marzipan and roll into a rectangle a few mms thick. When the buns have risen, beat 1 egg with a splash of milk and egg wash the top of the buns. Cut 2 stripes of marzipan and lay them across each bun. Bake for 20 mins. When the buns come out the oven heat the apricot jam and brush over the buns whilst they are still warm. Enjoy!

There’s two fantastic quotes for you this week too and find out about the new WI. It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans. So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.
We hope you will join us for Series 7, beginning on the 7th May 2023.
Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk
Apr 01, 202301:08:24
22 Year old Sheree Hargreaves Spreading Awareness of Early Menopause

22 Year old Sheree Hargreaves Spreading Awareness of Early Menopause

Today’s guest is a truly inspirational woman, she is resilient, courageous warm and honest.
We first met Sheree Hargreaves in October 2022 at the Menopause rally in Parliament square.
At 15 Sheree was diagnosed with Premature Ovarian Insufficiency or POI, a diagnosis that she kept hidden from her friends and family for four years.
Sheree was 19 and at home during lockdown when she felt ready to discuss POI more openly, saying “when I was 15 I would have loved to have heard someone spread awareness about early menopause and make it seem like it’s a bit more normal than I thought it was.”
Sheree is now active within the Menopause grass roots community, raising awareness to help and support, not only teenagers but women in natural menopause too.

In this Episode Sheree discusses the impact of menopause on her life at university, her ‘Granny days’, how opening up has lifted a huge weight off her shoulders. She is honest about her feelings toward fertility, boyfriends and relationships and tells us that if she’s not past her prime in menopause at 22 then no one is, whatever your age.

Premature Ovarian Insufficiency happens when the ovaries stop functioning before the natural age of menopause. This means the ovaries no longer produce eggs and are unable to produce the hormones oestrogen and progesterone which are really important for women's health and wellbeing. Approximately one in 100 women under the age of 40, one in 1,000 women under 30, and one in 10,000 under 20 experience POI.
POI can be caused by autoimmune conditions, cancer treatment, surgery or a genetics, however for 90 per cent of women diagnosed with POI, the cause is unfortunately idiopathic, meaning there is no known cause and it happens spontaneously.
You can watch the full interview on our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA


Do you know who Stan McClain from Florida is? You’ll probably wish you didn’t after we tell you what he’s been up to! Jinty asks the question, ‘what was life like for women in medieval times?’ And the answer will definitely surprise you! There’s fashion news to take you back to the 1980’s, but will you be brave enough to wear it?

In the Book Collective we read chapter 10 of Sarah Graham’s book, Rebel Bodies, and its titled, Menopausal Crones, when sexism and ageism collide, there’s some shocking statistics and some lovely familiar names in the chapter. It’s a chapter that will leave you furious!

Jinty tells you the ingredients you’ll need for our spectacular Nice Buns feature and it’s all about Easter.

There’s a fantastic quote for you again this week too and find out about the new WI. It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans. So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.

Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk

Sheree Hargreaves: Instagram: @lifeofpoi_
Mar 25, 202301:09:41
Sex and the Menopause

Sex and the Menopause

Our guest this week is Kate Organ of The Menopause Specialists who is chatting to us about how our sex lives can change as the result of Menopause, whether this is through sex being painful, suffering from GMS (genitourinary menopause syndrome) or you find yourself single and menopausal, Kate discusses why orgasms are good for you but what if we have Hypoactive sexual desire disorder HSDD; ie low libido? Kate gives us the latest information on treatments for GMS, and we ask should you be using localised oestrogen or lubrication, or both?
Menopause can have a huge impact on relationships and intimacy yet there is still much taboo and secrecy that surround it. Even the closest of friends may not discuss what is happening, or not happening in the bedroom.
Kate tells us how our mental health can have a huge impact on an intimate relationship.

It’s not all bad either - we discuss how we can have the best sex and relationships at this time of life, finding our confidence and knowing what we want.

Kate is the founder and consultant pharmacist at The Menopause Specialists South East Clinic, working alongside GP Katie Burlington.
Kate completed her menopause training through the British Menopause Society and the Newson Health Menopause Society and holds numerous post graduate qualifications specialising in mental health care, leading her to be a menopause, PMS and PMDD specialist. She strongly believes in a holistic approach to health and says ‘We want every woman to have a positive experience of the menopause and perimenopause’.
You can watch the full interview on our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA

We find out that Boris Johnson is wanting to bestow a knighthood on his father, Stanley Johnson. And ask should this be allowed after Stanley has been accused of domestic violence? Jinty investigates how Spain are leading the way into research on measuring acceptability of intimate violence against women and it’s significance in normalising domestic abuse.

Do you feel overwhelmed when you have a full diary of meetings and events planned? Lou asks if this is an after effect of the pandemic or if we want to slow the pace in menopause.

In our Book Collective we read chapter 9 of Rebel Bodies by Sarah Graham, ‘Death means we believe you now. Neurotic mothers in healthcare. We read the emotive stories of Claire Norton and her daughter Merryn, Steph and her daughter Daisy and the force of nature Caron Ryalls the mother of Emily. The real evidence of the gaping gender health gap.

There’s a fantastic quote for you this week too and find out how we got on with our WI. It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans. So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat. If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast please consider buying us a Ko-Fi. This helps us ensure we bring you quality of content and sound.
ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast

Kate Organ: Website: www.menopausespecialists.com
Instagram: @the_menopause_specialists
Mar 18, 202301:05:05
Change Your Space with Professional Declutterer and Author Jasmine Sleigh

Change Your Space with Professional Declutterer and Author Jasmine Sleigh

Today’s guest is professional declutterer, Jasmine Sleigh who has spent ten years in other people’s homes and cupboards. Have you ever asked yourself the question, “Why have I kept that?” Ever looked around your home and wondered if your belongings are helping or overwhelming you? If so it might be time to reflect upon your relationship with your possessions, and one thing you’ll realise after today’s episode is that you are not alone in feeling conflicted about letting go of ‘stuff’. Jasmine established the Devon based, Change Your Space in 2013, since then she has worked in over a thousand homes. She has a degree in Psychology & Counselling and a post graduate certificate in Change Management, she’s also a regional expert for addressing chronic disorganisation and hoarding and works actively with public health and welfare agencies. In her brand new book, Being Owned: A Decade in Professional Decluttering, Jasmine says she ‘wanted to sensitively reflect the world of tackling belongings when people are at crisis level.’ You can watch the full interview on our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA  We discuss the emotional ties we may have to our belongings, how people sometimes feel defined by what they own, and the importance of working alongside the people so that they can begin to feel in control. Jasmine imparts some great wisdom around keepsakes, ideas when thinking about what to keep and what to let go and also some practical tips on how to store our beloved keepsakes such as our children’s drawings or photos. We also take a look at the controversy surrounding the Vendee Globe yacht race and the motherhood penalty as World class and record breaking sailor Clarisse Cremer is dropped by her corporate sponsor for having a baby. Do you have ROMO? Jinty tells us we just might all be a bit ROMO! Did you know menopause fatigue can be more prevalent in certain personality types? We give you all the information.   Book Collective: In our book club we are reading Sarah Graham’s bestselling book, Rebel Bodies, a guide to the gender health gap revolution, we read chapter 8 this week, Baby Blues: Perinatal care and the price of motherhood. This chapter discusses birth, loss and survival and asks why aren’t things getting any better? This book certainly keeps on giving with the beautiful stories and the shocking statistics surrounding women’s health.   There’s a fantastic quote for you this week too and a new WI. It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans. So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.   If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast please consider buying us a Ko-Fi. This helps us ensure we bring you quality of content and sound. https://ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast     Jasmine Sleigh: Being Owned: A Decade in Professional Decluttering. Website: https://www.changeyourspace.co.uk Instagram: @changeyourspacedevon. Buy Jasmines book here https://www.amazon.co.uk/Being-Owned-Decade-Professional-Decluttering/dp/1739282604
Mar 11, 202301:17:08
What to Wear with Image Consultant Annie Chung

What to Wear with Image Consultant Annie Chung

As you know we love a bit of fashion news on the Womenkind Collective podcast so we thought it was about time we spoke to an expert. Annie Chung is a Devon based Image consultant with the passion and knowledge for helping women gain confidence and self-belief.
Is fashion something that is on your radar? Perhaps over the years you have developed your own ‘style’ ? Or after many Lockdowns, have you given up on both fashion and style and go for a more practical, comfortable look? Maybe you can do both? Perhaps you’d like to be more confident in knowing ‘your look’ but have lost your way as you have got older and maybe a little wider?
Well fear not because our guest today wants to help you with all these fashion quandaries. With her expertise in colour, style and organisation Annie empowers women to believe in themselves, put themselves first and dress with confidence and flair so they can be the best and most importantly loved version of themselves. Annie’s motto is “every day is your best life, dress for it”. You can catch the full interview with Annie on our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA
We are also talking boobs, bras and stars did you know 81% are wearing the wrong bra size? Find out why. There’s also a lot going on in the night sky at the moment and we take a look at why we are all made up of stardust.
We continue with our Book Collective Sarah Graham’s Rebel Bodies, this week we have read chapter 7 The War on Cancer: Gendering the C word and once again we find out some shocking statistics.
In the Foodie we have our ‘NICE BUNS’ and we have made Rhubarb and cardamom cream Semlors and they are absolutely delicious! These lovely Swedish buns are traditionally eaten the day before lent.
Ingredients:
100 ml milk. 150 ml water. 100g butter. 500g strong white bread flour. 80g caster sugar. 1 sachet of instant yeast. 2 teaspoons of ground cardamom. 1 egg.
For the filling:
250ml double cream. 1 tsp vanilla extract. 1 tsp ground cardamom. 2 tbs icing sugar. 3 sticks of rhubarb. 1 tbs granulated sugar.
Method:
Line a baking tray. In a saucepan pour in the milk, water and butter, heat till the butter has melted. Allow to cool. In a bowl combine the flour, caster sugar, yeast and cardamom. Make a well in the centre and add the egg. Mix in the cooled saucepan mixture. Make a sticky dough. Add a little flour to the work surface and knead until smooth and elastic. Place it back in the bowl, cover and leave in a warm place for around an hour. Once doubled in size turn out the dough and divide into 12 equal portions, roll into smooth balls and place on the baking tray. Leave to prove for around 45 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 200degrees, gas mark 6. When the buns have risen place them in the oven. Bake for 12-15 minutes
In a saucepan lightly stew the rhubarb and granulated sugar for 10 mins. Whip the cream, vanilla extract, cardamom and icing sugar in a bowl. Once the buns have cooled cut the tops off and scoop a little of the centre out and fill with the cream and rhubarb. Place the top back on and eat straight away!

There’s a fantastic quote for you this week too and a new WI. It’s another episode brimming with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans. So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.

If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast please consider buying us a Ko-Fi. This helps us ensure we bring you quality of content and sound.
ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
Annie Chung: Facebook. Annie Chung Image Consultant.
Instagram: @my_life_in_lipstick
Mar 04, 202301:11:56
Busting Gynaecological myths & taboos with Dr Aziza Sesay

Busting Gynaecological myths & taboos with Dr Aziza Sesay

 In this week’s episode we chat to the wonderful Dr Aziza Sesay, an NHS GP, a GP educator, Honorary Senior Clinical lecturer, speaker and health content creator who has a passion for health education, awareness, advocacy and empowerment. She channels this through her platform 'Talks with Dr. Sesay' where she shares short informative videos, live discussions and tips on a variety of topics with a particular emphasis on women’s and gynaecological health, cancer awareness, mental health and health inequity. Her goal is to equip and empower individuals with knowledge in the hope of preventing disease or at least moderating their progression. With a 3 year waiting list for some NHS Gynaecology departments in the UK it is important to seek the correct, evidenced based information to gain the most from an appointment and to understand what may be happening in your own body. This is a must listen whether you have just began menstruating, are in post menopause and everything in between. Dr Sesay busts some myths regarding heavy and/or painful periods, painful sex, Menopause, vaginal sweets, ‘intimate’ cleaning products & more. We discuss how using the correct anatomical language such as vulva and vagina can actually save lives. Find out why women & people with vaginas are more prone to UTI’s and what we can do about it (loads of great tips). Cervical smear tests, speculums, lube, the 5 main gynaecological Cancers and what to look for. Aziza is generous with her time and openness, she tells us where her passion to inform and empower people comes from. And as a black female doctor we ask her about the biases, misogyny, racism and sexism she has faced as a patient and as a doctor. You can find Dr Aziza Sesay here: Instagram: @talkswithdrsesay Web: https://www.talkswithdrsesay.com/ The book Dr Sesay talks about is This is the Vulva by Jo Corrall and is available on Etsy  https://www.etsy.com/uk/listing/1405638210/pre-sale-this-is-the-vulva-book-ill-send?ref=share_v4_lx If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast please consider buying us a Ko-Fi. This helps us ensure we bring you quality of content and sound. https://ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast There’s been a lot of talk this week in the press about the research from Stanford University on the growing size of penis’s, we investigate this a little further. This links into other news this week that only 22% of males would take a male contraceptive pill even though it is more effective than the oral combined female contraceptive pill, just another gender health gap? In the Book Collective we read chapter 6 of Sarah Graham’s must read book. Rebel Bodies, the chapter is titled, ‘Can you get a penis in and a baby out,’ The pleasure gap in sexual health, and once again it makes for shocking reading, from the vaginal mesh scandal through to IUD’s and female sexual dysfunction, the accounts from the women are astounding, a book everyone should read. There’s a fantastic quote this week too from Serena Williams, and a new WI. It’s another episode jam packed with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans. So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.   Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: https://www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: https://menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk  
Feb 25, 202301:28:37
Homelessness and Women with The Connection at St Martins & Solace Women’s Aid

Homelessness and Women with The Connection at St Martins & Solace Women’s Aid

There is a hidden crisis on the streets in England it is estimated that around 8000 people are sleeping rough every night and a growing percentage of rough sleepers are women. The Connection at St Martin in the Fields support people sleeping rough in the heart of London.
The Connection opens their doors to everyone who needs a place to call home helping them to recover and find their way off the streets, getting to know everyone they work with.
Our guest today is Ellie Greenhalgh, women’s development unit (WDU) manager with The Connection at St Martin’s who work with Solace Women’s Aid to provide a safe space for homeless women.
Ellie discusses with us the link between violence against women and girls and homelessness, and tells us that almost all women sleeping rough have experienced gendered violence in their lives, yet homelessness among women has received less attention from policy makers, the media, and in some cases service providers, resulting in a gap between women’s needs and existing service provision. We discuss these gaps and what the WDU are doing to close them. We hear how Women’s homelessness is often invisible meaning they cannot access the correct support and the importance of gathering realistic data for women on the streets.
Ellie talks to us about the importance of changing the narrative for homeless females and why menstrual care and ensuring a safe space is vital for the women and how a new census collecting more comprehensive data for homeless women will hopefully start to make changes.
We also learn the best ways we can all aid and support women who sleep rough.

Did you know the UK government’s credit card bill for 2021 was £145 million?
Jinty looks into the more bizarre items they’ve been spending tax payers money on.

Housework who does it in your house? Philosophers are arguing about how men and women perceive domestic chores, we discuss why some men are housework blind.

In the Book Collective we continue with Sarah Graham’s bestselling book, Rebel Bodies. We thought we could not be any more shocked but after reading chapter 5, All in Your Head: Mental Health and Hysteria the gaping disparities within the health service are shocking.

We tell you about our WI challenge during vulva cancer awareness month and there’s a fantastic quote. It’s another episode jam packed with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans. So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.
If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast please consider buying us a Ko-Fi. This helps us ensure we bring you quality of content and sound.
ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk

The Connection at St Martin in The Fields: www.connection-at-stmartins.org.uk
Solace Women’s Aid: www.solacewomensaid.org
Feb 18, 202301:09:35
The Gender Health Gap with Sarah Graham

The Gender Health Gap with Sarah Graham

The fabulous author of Rebel Bodies, our book for our book club this series, Sarah Graham joins us on the podcast this week and we talk all things gender health gap.
From describing exactly what the gender health is to bikini medicine, Sarah discusses all. An emotive episode that will have you nodding along, gasping in shock and maybe putting your head in your hands, but definitely not one to miss.
This book is a critical read for change in women’s health.
Sarah, is an award-winning freelance health journalist and founder of the Hysterical Women blog, specialising in health, gender and feminism. She has written extensively on these subjects for the iNews paper, Refinery29, the Telegraph, Grazia, Guardian, the BMJ and many others and Sarah was a finalist in the 2021 Medical Journalists’ Association Awards.
The statistics around women’s health are as shocking as the story’s from the women who have gone through unthinkable trauma at the hands of medical professionals. Sarah collated the accounts which highlights the misogyny, bias, gaslighting and oppression from her #shitmydoctorsays on her blog Hysterical Women. We discuss the importance of advocates and how they can assist women getting heard by health care professionals and we ask what is the way forward. Sarah discusses her research and the story’s that effected her the most when researching for this book.

We talk wine pronunciations, check if you’ve been pronouncing your glass of Rioja correctly and did you know about Galantines? We have all the answers for you.

In the Foodie Collective we launch our Nice Buns feature with a delicious bun, Swiss 3 King cake. These delicious yeasted dough buns are enriched with butter, sugar, egg, hazelnuts, dark chocolate and Seville oranges and they taste absolutely delicious! And Jinty has a vegan version!

In the WI we celebrate St Brigid and did you know daffodils are the happiest flowers around?

There’s a fantastic quote this week too from Mary Portas. It’s another episode jam packed with chat, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans. So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.
If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast please consider buying us a Ko-Fi. This helps us ensure we bring you quality of content and sound.
ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk

Sarah Graham Blog: hystericalwomen.co.uk
Sarah Graham Book: Rebel Bodies. A Guide To The Gender Health Gap Revolution
Sarah Graham Instagram: saraahgraham7writer
Feb 11, 202301:12:59
Mayhem & Menopause

Mayhem & Menopause

Whilst Ministers reject mandatory menopause training for GPs we have some good news for Devon and our #wheresmyclinic Menopause Clinic for Devon Campaign that we share in this episode.

Lou looks at the statistics that show sex can be better in menopause and how destructive journalism from female journalists is harming women’s mental health.

Have you tried looking for images on the internet of menopausal women? Why is there such a lack of diversity and under representation? We discuss how this needs to change.

For the first time in history a public holiday has been named after a woman.
This week, Ireland celebrated a brand new Public holiday on 1st February called Saint Brigids day and Jinty investigates who St Brigid is and why we should all be a bit more St Brigid.
If you think you cause mayhem you might want to think again when we explain the true meaning of the word, with the story of Bertha Boronda from 1908.
Who doesn’t like a Brussel sprout? Well, this little vegetable gets our scrutiny this week.

In the Book Collective we continue reading Sarah Graham’s book, Rebel Bodies, a guide to the gender health gap revolution. We hear from the listeners who are reading along with us. It’s an emotive chapter that has some shocking stories and statistics about the failing of the health service for women and the LGBTQ+ community and why there is a ‘fatphobia’ in medicine.

We complete the balance WI set by our lovely listener, Els, you can watch how we got on our Instagram page @womenkindcollective and we have a new one linked to St Brigid.

There’s a fantastic quote for you this week too. It’s another episode brimming with chat, laughter, your comments, and all the usual shenanigans. So, settle in for this hour(ish) podcast full of meaningful chat.
If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast please consider buying us a Ko-Fi. This helps us ensure we bring you quality of content and sound.
ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk
Feb 04, 202346:53
Sleep Problems & Insomnia with Sleep expert Sarah Wilde.

Sleep Problems & Insomnia with Sleep expert Sarah Wilde.

If you have trouble sleeping you won’t want to miss this episode. Our guest this week is the absolutely brilliant Sarah Wilde an insomnia coach and Cognitive Behavioural Therapist for Insomnia (CBTi). This method is a way to reset your sleep with no supplements, pills or sprays needed and now Sarah uses this to form the foundation of her Meno-insomnia® Method coaching programme which can teach you how to get a good night's sleep so that you wake up feeling like YOU again. Often, sleep problems are one of the first symptoms women experience in peri menopause, with 40 to 60% of menopausal women experiencing sleep issues. So, Sarah went back to basics and looked at the science and research which confirmed what she knew from experience- that CBTi had been proven to be a natural solution for perimenopausal & post-menopausal people with insomnia. Sarah says that she can ‘help women sleep better naturally so that they can have the energy to do what they want.’ In this interview Sarah explains the positives of sleep drive and our Circadian rhythm and how having good sleep hygiene can be a positive until the rituals and habits stop working. We discuss the physiology of how Menopause affects out sleep, why does our body temperature make a difference? She gives you some great tips on how to aid better sleep, whether your sleep is broken, or you have trouble getting off to sleep. You can watch the full unedited interview on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA   The gender health gap comes into the conversation this week and not just with our brilliant book club book, Jinty discusses the severe and damaging short comings from the first peered review paper written by expert doctors and scientists who treat chronic urinary tract infections how the medical profession is failing around 1.7 million patients.   In the Book Collective we continue with Sarah Graham’s Rebel Bodies, in chapter 2 the gaping gender health gap around menstrual and hormonal health throws up some shocking research.   We have a new WI from one of our listeners, but did Lou manage to complete the last one? There’s a great quote from Lou and all our usual shenanigans and cock-ups, so make sure you put the kettle on and settle in for this hour (ish) of fun and meaningful chat.  If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast please consider buying us a Ko-Fi. This helps us ensure we bring you quality of content and sound. https://ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: https://www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: https://menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk   Sarah Wilde: Menopause Sleep Coach Website: https://beyondinsomnia.com/ Instagram: beyond_insomnia
Jan 28, 202301:17:40
Hormonal Skin with Dr Ginni Mansberg

Hormonal Skin with Dr Ginni Mansberg

We are back with Series 6 of the Womenkind Collective weekly Podcast where we (Jinty & Lou) embark on a fun and educational journey, talking to experts and advocates on subjects that are often taboo We hit the ground running this series with the wonderful Dr Ginni Mansberg who chats with us about hormones, menopause and skin. We discuss eczema, rosacea, acne and find out why our skin drops a little as we age, and ask, is there anything we can do to make the most of the skin we have. We talk collagen supplements, nutrition and HRT. We ask can synthetic progestin give you acne? And With so many ‘menopause’ skin brands out there Dr Ginni tells us what to avoid and what to look for in a great product. Our hormones don’t only affect the skin on our face, what about our Vaginas? Dr Ginni explains how menopause impacts our vaginas and vulvas, and it’s not just about penetrative sex, we go deep into ph levels, and discuss the importance of seeking treatment sooner rather than later, and what the very simple treatments might entail. Dr Ginni Mansberg has been a GP for almost 30 years her practice is in Sydney, Australia, she has appeared on Embarrassing Bodies Down under (as an expert we might add), giving advice on various radio stations, and magazines. As a GP she has a special interest in menopause and is the author of the best-selling book, The M Word, how to Thrive in Menopause. Dr Ginni also started ‘Don't Sweat It’ to help menopausal women thrive in the workplace. As if that is not enough, Dr Ginni has enjoyed a career in Medical journalism and started her own skin care company, Evidence Skin or ESK where she is still the Medical Director. You can watch the full unedited interview on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA   We also have an exclusive special code for our listeners to get 10% off any order! 
The code is WKC10. Head over to  www.Eskcare.com You can buy her book here from indie book shop Hive https://www.hive.co.uk/Product/Ginni-Mansberg/The-M-Word--How-to-thrive-in-menopause/23747283?wgu=10671_187205_16740275461067_0d78bdf6ab&wgexpiry=1705563546&utm_source=webgains&utm_medium=affiliates&utm_campaign=187205   As we start a new series we have a brand new book for our Book Collective, this series we are reading Rebel Bodies by Sarah Graham. We start with reading chapter 1, The Personal is Political. Sarah goes back to Hippocrates where the use of the word hystera for uterus, hysteria is an over-used word for women suffering from period pain to  heart attacks and their voices can go unheard.   We have a brand new feature this series…Nice Buns! Where we take a look at and bake buns! Believe me it’s a feature you won’t want to miss!   We discuss the Met Police officer and why hasn’t anything changed since Sarah Everard’s murder? And do you love the smell of freshly cut grass? Jinty explains this curious well loved smell.   Dating yourself- How did you get on with the WI before Christmas? We asked each other to date ourselves for 5 dates…… what did we learn? There’s a great quote from Jinty and our usual shenanigans and fun, so make sure you put the kettle on and settle in for this hour (ish) of fun and meaningful chat. Please follow or subscribe to our podcast and leave a review if you can, spread the word and share with friends, it helps us continue our weekly podcast.  If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast please consider buying us a Ko-Fi. This helps us ensure we bring you quality of content and sound. https://ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: https://www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: https://menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk
Jan 21, 202301:19:03
Medical and Surgical Menopause; Step Into Your Own Kind of Fierce with Victoria Hardy

Medical and Surgical Menopause; Step Into Your Own Kind of Fierce with Victoria Hardy

We are excited about our guest this week, Victoria Hardy AKA ginge_unhinged, in this episode Victoria talks to us about her medical and surgical menopause in her early 30’s. She is a conversationalist of taboo, an upcoming author of a self-help memoir, and a menopause advocate and mentor. Which is how we met her, along with fellow menopause campaigners and activists we all came together at Parliament Square for the menopause rally in October. Victoria is shouting loud for Millennials so they can truly own their individual Menopause. She tells us about her Medical & Surgical Menopause at age 33. Her energy and enthusiasm are contagious and we feel she speaks for all ages in menopause. We discuss mental health and the importance of ‘the now’, how simple yet hugely effective mindfulness can be (and how to start). Victorias message is one of empowerment and she challenges women to look within to understand their true selves. Knowing that they too can change the narrative of Menopause for generations to come, whilst stepping into their own kind of fierce! You can watch the full unedited interview on our YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/TflJi7DDo6I   Jinty delves into the true origins of Christmas and finds out about a very little known festival to celebrate the mothers and Lou has a horrific experience with a hand towel!   In the Foodie there’s a very delicious, quick and frugal piccalilli for your Christmas table.   Find out how we got on with last fortnight’s WI and we have a new WI to start the New-Year with and it’s all about you. There’s a great quote from Lou plus our usual shenanigans, cock-ups and your amazing comments so make sure you put the kettle on and settle in for this hour (ish) of fun and meaningful chat.   Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: https://www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: https://menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk  If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast please consider buying us a Ko-Fi. This helps us ensure we bring you quality of content and sound. https://ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast Victoria Hardy: Instagram – ginge_unhinged
Dec 17, 202201:13:35
Christmas money saving tips, homelessness & women.

Christmas money saving tips, homelessness & women.

In this episode Jinty & Lou look at how you can save money at Christmas time with the fantastic comments and ideas from our listeners. We look at how you can plan and keep track of your spending, do you know the best way to save money on deliveries? We have all the answers for you so you can sit back, enjoy the festivities without breaking the bank.   We talk about homelessness and the shocking statistics from the charity The Connection at St Matin-in-the-fields about women living on the streets and what can be done about menstruation and menopause when you sleep rough.   In the Book Collective we conclude our book for this series, How To Live When You Could Be Dead by Dame Deborah James, we discuss planting seeds for a future when you know you will not see those seeds bloom. A truly beautiful ending to this magnificent, thought provoking and moving book. We announce our new book for next series.   There’s a cheeky quote for the week and our usual shenanigans so make sure you put the kettle on and settle in for this hour (ish) of fun and meaningful chat.   Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: https://www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: https://menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk
Dec 10, 202237:59
The Natural Menopause Method With Nutritionist Karen Newby

The Natural Menopause Method With Nutritionist Karen Newby

Our guest this week is Karen Newby, a nutritional therapist and author of the brilliant new book, The Natural Menopause Method, a nutritional guide to peri-menopause and beyond.
In this Episode Karen explains why nutrition is important and how we can understand what is happening to our bodies. Karen simplifies the science around stress and it’s impact in menopause. We discuss how we can use the book like a journal. You will learn about the four ‘Shifts’ in Menopause which include Reset and Rest. And ask ‘What is actually happening in our bodies in menopause?
Karen discusses stress and how it affects our menopause experience. She shares her menopause toolkit with us , looking at Symptoms such as anxiety, panic attacks and heart palpitations. If you’re looking for a great Christmas present for someone you love or for yourself you can get it here
www.waterstones.com/book/the-natural-menopause-method/karen-newby/9781911682233
You can watch the full interview on our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA

We look into the issue of damp and mould that sadly took a toddlers life and what you can do to help minimise damp in your home during a fuel crisis. We also look at misogyny in the emergency services and why women are not even getting close to being equal in numbers.

In the Book Collective we read chapter 9 of Deborah James, How To Live When You Could Be Dead, and it’s an emotional read on gratitude we discuss the elements of this chapter.

We continue with our frugal Foodie and have an air-fryer fried rice recipe from Jinty. Recipe here- although we didn’t use quorn www.quorn.co.uk/recipes/air-fried-vegan-rice-with-quorn-vegan-fillets
If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast please consider buying us a Ko-Fi. This helps us ensure we bring you quality of content and sound.
ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
We have a new WI to try out and find out how we got on with our bonnets!. There’s a great quote from Lou and there’s our usual shenanigans, cock-ups, and your amazing comments so make sure you put the kettle on and settle in for this hour (ish) of fun and meaningful chat.
An episode packed with information and fun, let us know what you think and please share with friends if you enjoy it.
Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk

Karen Newby: Instagram: karen.newby.nutritionist
Dec 03, 202201:32:20
Birth Trauma; A Survivors Story with Dawn Colgan.

Birth Trauma; A Survivors Story with Dawn Colgan.

Theres been an underlying theme of bravery running through this series and today we talk to one very brave woman, Dawn Colgan. Dawn had it all, a great career, two children and a loving partner. She loved her job as a specialist social worker in addiction. But her life dramatically changed, at 34, when she had her third child who is now 15. In this episode Dawn shares her story of despair, loneliness, inadequacy but also bravery, grit, determination and growth.   In the Book Collective we read chapter 8 of Deborah James, How To Live When You Could Be Dead and it’s all about the healing power of laughter. Even when she was in the most excruciating pain, Deborah found the funny, we discuss how important laughter is when facing serious illness and death.   In The Foodie Lou cooks up a one pot frozen pea risotto, changing the alcohol to vegetable stock: https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/pea-risotto   Find out how we did with our poetry WI and we also have a new WI to try out and you ain’t seen nothing like it! There’s a great quote from Jinty and our usual shenanigans, we talk love eggs, marriage and how the method of meeting our partners has changed over the years. There’s your amazing comments so make sure you put the kettle on and settle in for this hour (ish) of fun and meaningful chat.   Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: https://www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com And if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: https://menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk   Dawn’s Etsy shop: https://www.etsy.com/uk/search?q=wonky%20pots%20by%20dawn&ref=auto-1&as_prefix=wonky%20pots You can watch the full interview on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA
Nov 19, 202201:25:09
The Pituitary Gland, Testosterone & Friendships.

The Pituitary Gland, Testosterone & Friendships.

We have a jam-packed Episode for you this week as we explore the pituitary gland, and how this small but very mighty gland can have a huge effect on your menopause.
We talk testosterone when/if do you need it? What are the NICE and British Menopause Society guidelines for GP’s to prescribe it. And how to read your testosterone blood test.
We have a quick chat to Naomi Scholgler on the benefits of seed cycling if you menstruate, (and if you don’t).
And after research was published regarding the time it takes to build a strong friendship, we talk about the benefits of friendships, why they can make you brave and why some may last a lifetime while others just stay acquaintances.

New research has discovered that The human Clitoris has over 10,000 nerve endings, 2000 more than previously thought, we talk about why for decades this human pleasure giving little nub of joy was only researched on bovines and sheep, could the patriarchy not want us to know how powerful it really is?

We have a great frugal dish for our autumn themed frugal Foodie, a low cost and nutritious pot of goodness that can be thrown into the slow cooker…….and some tips on a simple but nourishing microwaveable dish from Jinty’s daughter.
Recipe here

www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/slow-cooker-vegetable-curry

In the Book Collective we discuss chapter 7 of Deborah James, How To Live When You Could Be Dead, what is bravery? We consider the bravest things we have ever done.

How did you do in the WI? Sorry seems to be the hardest word as Elton John once said, do you agree? And there’s a new WI that will expand your mind.

There’s a great quote from Lou and all our usual shenanigans and cock-ups, we share your amazing comments so make sure you put the kettle on and settle in for this hour (ish) of fun and meaningful chat.
Naomi’s Seed Cycling www.etsy.com/uk/listing/881041135/seed-cycling-full-kit-organic-ground?ref=share_v4_lx If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast please consider buying us a Ko-Fi. This helps us ensure we bring you quality of content and sound.
ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk
Nov 05, 202201:05:57
Diversity in Menopause and Meno washing With Meera Bhogal.

Diversity in Menopause and Meno washing With Meera Bhogal.

In this episode we talk about diversity in menopause with the incredible Meera Bhogal a business owner for over 20 years, the founder of Meera’s Made From Scratch, an organic and wholesome food brand.
Through her own experience of menopause, she founded the ‘Don’t pause for Menopause’ programme. Meera also offers support to people in their menopause and is passionate about education and awareness, particularly, but not exclusively, in the South Asian community.
She is full of information, her approach to breaking taboos, educating communities and having those difficult conversations makes her a perfect guest for Womenkind Collective.

We discuss the menopause wellness industry and ask Has it gone too far? Is it tapping into peoples vulnerability and insecurities and taking advantage of folks in menopause? Or is any awareness good awareness?
Are social, patriarchal idealisms not allowing women the privilege of aging as they should?
You can also watch the full unedited (bloopers and all) interview with Meera on our YouTube channel:
www.youtube.com/channel/UCFgmHLcdx28eco-XlkWYwUA

Meera also gives us a delicious recipe for our frugal foodie full of nutritious goodness and very easy to make, lentil and mushroom stew which we will be making for next week.

In our book collective we continue to read Dame Deborah James, How To Live When You Could Be Dead, we’re on chapter 6 we discuss how grit and resilience are paramount to get through life and how grit can literally change your life for the better.

We have a new WI to try out. We ask do women apologise too much and we invite you to find out, giving you some tips to do so.
There’s a great quote from Jinty and our usual shenanigans, cock-ups, there’s a menopause rally round-up, and your amazing comments so make sure you put the kettle on and settle in for this hour (ish) of fun and meaningful chat.

Our campaign for a Menopause Clinic in Devon is moving closer but we still need signatures on our petition: www.change.org/p/wheresmyclinic
Or to send your testimonials please email us: menopauseclinicdc@gmail.com
And finally, if you would like the templates to send to your MP or CCG please visit our website: menopauseclinicfordevon.co.uk
If you’ve enjoyed our Podcast please consider buying us a Ko-Fi. This helps us ensure we bring you quality of content and sound.
ko-fi.com/womenkindcollectivepodcast
Meera Bhogal:
meerasmadefromscratch.co.uk/organisers/meera-bhogal/
www.meerabhogal.com/
Instagram:
@meerabhogal
@meerasmadefromscratch. Great Instagram pages we talked about - instagram.com/drnighatarif?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=. instagram.com/michellegriffithrobinson?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=. instagram.com/feelgoodwithlavina?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
Oct 29, 202201:11:07