Redefining Midlife with Jo Clark

• 160. Menopause. Now what? With Dr Sian Hebron

  You've made it through perimenopause. The hot flushes have settled, your periods have stopped, and you're breathing a sigh of relief. What many women don't realise is that reaching menopause isn't the finish line. It's actually the starting point for a crucial new phase of health that demands your attention. In this honest conversation with Dr Sian Hebron, our specialist GP in women's health, we explore what happens to your body after that final ovulation and why the years ahead require a different kind of awareness and action.Key TakeawaysMenopause is forever, not just a phaseOnce your final ovulation has happened, you’re in menopause for life. Your body’s needs have changed, even if you don’t feel it day to day. Without oestrogen, your bones lose density faster, your heart needs more care, and your overall health deserves more attention.Your bones need youOestrogen is used to protect your bones, and without it, the risk of fractures increases. Strength training, getting enough calcium and vitamin D, and possibly HRT can all make a big difference. Don’t wait until your seventies to check your bone density. Start in your fifties and stay proactive.Heart health matters more than everWith lower oestrogen, your risk of heart disease and stroke goes up. Starting HRT within the first ten years after menopause can offer protection, but the basics still matter most: eat well, move regularly, and know your numbers when it comes to blood pressure and cholesterol.Be the CEO of your healthMake space for proper women’s health appointments, not quick chats squeezed in at the end of another visit. Ask for the tests you need. If your GP isn’t confident with menopause care, find someone who is. You’re not being difficult—you’re taking charge of your wellbeing.Start smallIt’s easy to feel overwhelmed by all the advice, but small steps lead to big change. Choose one thing to focus on: better sleep, a morning walk, saying no more often, or reconnecting with a friend. It’s never too late to start feeling better. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s progress.Links mentioned in this podcastEpisode 130 - Sex in Midlifehttps://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/AJpTnYzaOXbEpisode 119 - Heart Health, Hormones, and Weight Gainhttps://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/4kRkr0zaOXbEpisode 105 - Doctor in Your Cornerhttps://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/2Vo5u2zaOXbEpisode 46 - Better Bone Health with Professor Belinda Beck https://spotifycreators-web.app.link/e/2pGMtgHaOXbhttps://menopause.org.au/https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/Join usJoin Dr Sian Hebron and me on Saturday, 8 November, for the Shifting Tides event at Noosa Springs Spa Resort.It's an intimate and supportive gathering where you'll gain valuable medical insights, practical frameworks, and a genuine connection with other women navigating this stage of life.You can get your tickets at https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/shifting-tides-your-guide-to-menopause-midlife-whats-next-tickets-1681453666179?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurlConnect with meBook your 20-minute connection call https://calendly.com/jo--138/20min?month=2025-07 RE-IMAGINE: A personalised 1:1 six-week mentoring programme https://www.joclarkcoaching.com/work-with-me Share your journey with me by sending me a message on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/joclarkcoaching/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/joclarkcoaching/⁠Email me your success story at [email protected]. Remember, there's so much untapped brilliance in midlife women. You are wise, strong, and talented. You just need the space to hear yourself and the courage to act on what you know.The second half of your life can be even better than the first.

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• 159. Why Friendships in Midlife Matter More Than Ever with Jo Clark

  Your friendships aren't just good for your soul; they're medicine for your body. In this week's episode, Jo explores why the connections you nurture in midlife can add years to your life. From the surprising science behind why quality relationships matter more than career success or wealth, to practical ways you can keep your friendships strong (and how to navigate when they change), this conversation reminds you that friendship isn't a luxury, it's essential.Friendships are one of the most powerful health investments The Harvard Study of Adult Development discovered that people most satisfied with their relationships at age 50 were the healthiest at age 80. It's completely normal for friendships to evolve and sometimes fadeWe replace about half our social circle every seven years. Friends come for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. If a friendship has quieted or ended, give yourself permission to grieve and stay open to what comes next.Making new friends in midlife is different, but deeply rewardingMidlife friendships often grow from shared values and interests through travel, wellness events, online communities, or shared conversations. You're not too old to find your people; you're simply choosing them more intentionally now.Consistency and small actions transform your connectionsYou don't need grand gestures, rather deliberate moments. Treat connection like a non-negotiable appointment. This week, reach out to one friend, be honest if distance has grown, show up for the in-between moments, and celebrate what matters.When a friendship falters or ends, approach it with honesty and compassionIf you want to repair it, open with care: "I've noticed some distance between us, and I miss how things used to be." If it's time to let go, do it with gratitude. You can hold appreciation for a friendship while releasing it with grace.Reflection PromptsAs you think about your own friendships, consider journaling on these questions:Who has been in my life the longest, and what do I treasure about that friendship?Which friendships energise me, and which ones drain me?What friendships have I grieved or let go of, and what did I learn from them?Where might I open myself to new connections?What's one small action I could take this week to nurture a friendship that matters?How do I want to be remembered as a friend?Moving ForwardThis week, choose one person you haven't caught up with lately and reach out. Whether it's a coffee, a walk, a Zoom call, or a message, make that connection. Your friendships are good for your heart, your health, your longevity, and your sense of belonging in midlife. Walk alongside the people who lift you up, who remind you who you are, and who see every version of you and choose to stay.Join Dr Sian Hebron and me on Saturday, 8 November, for the Shifting Tides event at Noosa Springs Spa Resort.It's an intimate and supportive gathering where you'll gain valuable medical insights, practical frameworks, and a genuine connection with other women navigating this stage of life.You can get your tickets at https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/shifting-tides-your-guide-to-menopause-midlife-whats-next-tickets-1681453666179?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurlConnect with meBook your 20-minute connection call https://calendly.com/jo--138/20min?month=2025-07 RE-IMAGINE: A personalised 1:1 six-week mentoring programme https://www.joclarkcoaching.com/work-with-me Share your journey with me by sending me a message on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/joclarkcoaching/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/joclarkcoaching/⁠Email me your success story at [email protected]. Remember, there's so much untapped brilliance in midlife women. You are wise, strong, and talented. You just need the space to hear yourself and the courage to act on what you know.The second half of your life can be even better than the first.

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• 158. What Really Changes When Women Become Grandmothers with DeeDee Moore

  Becoming a grandmother is one of those life moments that sneaks up on you. In this episode, I sit down with DeeDee Moore, founder of More Than Grand, to explore what modern grandparenting actually looks like and how to navigate this transformative stage with intention and genuine joy. Whether you're about to become a grandmother or watching grandchildren grow from a distance, this conversation will help you create a meaningful role that works for your family.Key InsightsIntention Shapes Your ImpactClarify your purpose before stepping into the grandmother role. When you know what you truly want to pass on, whether love, resilience, or cultural heritage. it's easier to set healthy boundaries and resist the pressure to buy every toy or override parents' decisions.Communication Is EverythingThe relationship with your grandchildren's parents determines your experience as a grandmother. Most tensions arise from assumptions and unspoken expectations. Have honest conversations early and often. Ask before you advise. This isn't weakness, it's wisdom.Modern Parenting Is Entirely DifferentToday's parents are drowning in information and comparison. Educate yourself about current best practices and parenting trends so you can be genuinely helpful rather than a source of stress.Setting Boundaries for ProtectionIf you're the primary grandchild carer, have a clear plan before committing. Talk about sick days, holidays, and what happens if circumstances change. Regular check-ins keep resentment from building.Relationships Matter MostWhether you're long-distance, navigating blended families, or dealing with separation, genuine relationship holds everything together. Show up consistently, even when it's complicated.Moving ForwardStart by having a real conversation with your grandchildren's parents about how you can genuinely help. Your relationship with your grandchildren will be one of the greatest privileges of your life. Make it intentional.Connect with DeeDeeDeeDee Moore founded More Than Grand to help new grandparents become the village new parents need.  Her insight and resources make this sometimes-tricky transition smoother for the whole family. On the More Than Grand blog and social media, DeeDee covers topics such as concrete ways to support new parents, understanding new trends in child care, and meaningful ways to connect with grandchildren.Website: More Than Grand https://morethangrand.com/?utm_campaign=podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_term=jc New Grandparent Essentials (digital course for newbies) https://www.morethangrand.com/shop/p/new-grandparent-essentials?utm_campaign=podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_term=jc Website mentioned. The Long Distance Grandparent https://thelongdistancegrandparent.com/Connect with meBook your 20-minute connection call https://calendly.com/jo--138/20min?month=2025-07 RE-IMAGINE: A personalised 1:1 six-week mentoring programme https://www.joclarkcoaching.com/work-with-me Share your journey with me by sending me a message on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/joclarkcoaching/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/joclarkcoaching/⁠Email me your success story at [email protected]. Remember, there's so much untapped brilliance in midlife women. You are wise, strong, and talented. You just need the space to hear yourself and the courage to act on what you know.The second half of your life can be even better than the first.

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• 157. Midlife Is More Than Menopause with Jo Clark

  October is World Menopause Month, and this year's theme, "Midlife Managed," couldn't be more relevant. In this episode, I explore why menopause is only one piece of a much bigger picture. While you're managing hot flushes and brain fog, you're also juggling career pressures, ageing parents, children leaving home, shifting relationships, and financial stress. This isn't about enduring midlife; it's about recognising the overlapping transitions and supporting yourself through all of them. I share practical ways to navigate this perfect storm and remind you that you're not alone in feeling overwhelmed by it all.Key TakeawaysMenopause is significant, but it's not the whole story.Midlife isn't defined by menopause alone. It's about managing career demands, family responsibilities, relationship shifts, health changes, and financial pressures all at once. When we only focus on symptoms and treatments, we miss the opportunity to care for ourselves in the ways we most need.Midlife transitions create a domino effect.You're rarely dealing with just one transition at a time. Career demands peak, children leave home, parents need more care, relationships evolve, and menopause sits on top of it all. Recognising this pattern helps you understand why you feel stretched so thin.Menopause is permanent, and your health needs will change forever.Once you reach menopause, you remain in that state for life. Your body has changed significantly, and your health must be managed differently moving forward. This makes the theme "Midlife Managed" so powerful.You have access to resources and community.Whether through the podcast library, the Better Than Before Wellness membership, downloadable resources, or the RE-IMAGINE mentoring programme, support is available. You don't have to figure this out alone.This is your time to pause, reset, and rediscover yourself.Midlife is full of transitions, but it's also full of opportunity. This is your chance to reconnect with who you are now and create a future that feels aligned, joyful, and uniquely yours.And if you're ready for something special, join Dr Sian Hebron and me on Saturday, 8 November, for the Shifting Tides event at Noosa Springs Spa Resort.It's an intimate and supportive gathering where you'll gain valuable medical insights, practical frameworks, and a genuine connection with other women navigating this stage of life.You can get your tickets at https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/shifting-tides-your-guide-to-menopause-midlife-whats-next-tickets-1681453666179?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurlConnect with meBook your 20-minute connection call https://calendly.com/jo--138/20min?month=2025-07 RE-IMAGINE: A personalised 1:1 six-week mentoring programme https://www.joclarkcoaching.com/work-with-me Share your journey with me by sending me a message on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/joclarkcoaching/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/joclarkcoaching/⁠Email me your success story at [email protected]. Remember, there's so much untapped brilliance in midlife women. You are wise, strong, and talented. You just need the space to hear yourself and the courage to act on what you know.The second half of your life can be even better than the first.

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• 156. What Women Need To Know Before and After Retirement with Bec Wilson

  What if retirement isn't just about stopping work, but about reshaping your entire life? In this insightful conversation with bestselling author Bec Wilson, we dive deep into the financial and emotional realities of transitioning from traditional work to what she calls your "prime time years". Bec shares her unconventional journey from marketing executive to retirement thought leader, revealing why the years between 47 and 65 hold untapped potential for women ready to design their lives on their own terms. This goes beyond your typical retirement planning chat; and recognises the triggers that signal it's time for change and having the financial literacy to make bold choices.Key TakeawaysPrime Time Begins Earlier Than You ThinkThe science shows that between ages 47-55, most people hit what researchers call "the bottoming of the happiness curve." This isn't a crisis to endure—it's your cue to start designing the life you actually want to live, not just grinding towards traditional retirement.Financial Literacy Creates ChoiceUnderstanding Australia's superannuation system, age pension eligibility, and how compound interest works isn't optional—it's the foundation of freedom. Bec's example of Anna versus Dave shows how starting contributions just seven years earlier can mean the difference between having choices and being trapped.The Setup Phase is Non-NegotiableYour late 40s and early 50s are your window to capture extra money as kids become less expensive. Finding even $12,000 annually during these years can fund five years of part-time work or sabbaticals later, but only if you're intentional about it.Transitions Will Come Whether You're Ready or NotFrom career pivots and relationship breakdowns to health crises and retrenchments, midlife brings more transitions than any other life stage. The women who thrive are those who've built financial security before the transitions hit.Know Your Numbers Before You Need ThemWhether it's the downsizing concession at 55 that lets couples put $600,000 into super, or understanding how age pension asset tests work, the women who know these rules can make strategic decisions. Those who don't often miss life-changing opportunities by months or years.Moving ForwardThe biggest mistake women make isn't starting too late; it's waiting for permission to start at all. Whether you're feeling dead inside on Monday mornings, facing an empty nest, or simply recognising that the life you built isn't the life you want to keep living, your prime time years are calling. Bec's work proves that with the right financial foundation and mindset, the second half of your life doesn't have to be about decline, it can be about designing something entirely new.Don't let fear of "not having enough" keep you small. Start by understanding the systems that already exist to support you, then build your knowledge one conversation, one book, one decision at a time. Remember, knowledge without action creates no transformation.Follow Bec Wilson’s work belowSign up for weekly Epic Retirement Newsletters http://becwilson.net/newslettersListen to the Prime Time podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/prime-time-with-bec-wilson/id1710995058Visit her website for books and more at http://becwilson.net/  Email [email protected] with meBook your 20-minute connection call https://calendly.com/jo--138/20min?month=2025-07 RE-IMAGINE: A personalised 1:1 six-week mentoring programme https://www.joclarkcoaching.com/work-with-me Share your journey with me by sending me a message on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/joclarkcoaching/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/joclarkcoaching/⁠Email me your success story at [email protected]. Remember, there's so much untapped brilliance in midlife women. You are wise, strong, and talented. You just need the space to hear yourself and the courage to act on what you know.The second half of your life can be even better than the first.

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