Juggling Perimenopause, A Career & Toddlers with Broadcaster & Entrepreneur Sarah-Jane Crawford
In this week's chat, Donna is joined by radio and TV broadcaster and entrepreneur Sarah Jane Crawford, who is a mum of two and founder of the non-toxic haircare brand Clean Curls. Sarah-Jane opens up to Donna about what it feels like to navigate perimenopause in your early forties while still parenting young children all while growing a business. She also shares the routines that keep her steady - early mornings, movement, resistance training, vitamin D - and the mindset shifts that turned her vulnerabilities into strength.So if you’re juggling little ones, big dreams, and changing hormones, then this conversation is for you! Please follow Sarah-Jane on Instagram and Tik Tok and you can follow Donna on Instagram and Tik Tok and subscribe to her new substack, My Skin Type Is Sober too. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to follow the podcast and leave a review. Disclaimer: This episode discusses personal health experiences. It’s not medical advice. Please consult a qualified clinician for your own care.
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Why I’m Growing Out My Grey Hair: with celebrity makeup artist Donna May
In this warm and funny chat, celebrity make-up artist and founder of Donna May London, Donna May, joins Donna to talk about her second attempt at growing out her natural grey hair. From why she gave up the first time to what’s motivating her now, they talk honestly about the emotional side of letting go of hair dye.Donna shares her experience of working with a grey-blending specialist, the unexpected challenges of the process, and why it’s not just about hair - it’s about embracing who you really are. They also chat about how your makeup and wardrobe might evolve when your hair colour changes, and why surrounding yourself with supportive women makes all the difference.If you’ve ever thought about going grey - or you’re just curious about what it takes to do it gracefully - this episode will make you feel seen, inspired, and maybe a little braver.Follow Donna May’s journey on her Instagram and join the conversations on her Donna May London Community Facebook Group too. You can also follow (the host) Donna on Instagram and Tik Tok and subscribe to her substack, My Skin Type Is Sober too. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to share, follow and leave a review. It really helps!
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The #1 Lesson I’ve Learned About Menopause
In this episode Donna shares the most important lesson she’s learned after six years writing about and interviewing menopause experts: that you don’t need to fix yourself to thrive in midlife.Instead, Donna explores how embracing your authentic self, owning your quirks, and using the tools you already have can transform perimenopause and beyond into a time of confidence, joy, and growth.What you’ll discover in this episode:* Why vulnerability is a superpower in midlife* How to shift your mindset from fixing to thriving* The beauty confidence hack no cream can give you* The underrated power of routines for feeling grounded* How trusting your gut sharpens with age and opens doorsWhether you’re approaching perimenopause, in the midst of it, or postmenopausal, this episode is a reminder that menopause isn’t the end - it’s a beginning.If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to share it with your friends, follow the podcast and leave a review. You can also follow Donna on Instagram and Tik Tok and subscribe to her new substack, My Skin Type Is Sober too.
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Tips for Thinning Hair in Menopause
In this episode Donna opens up about her journey with hair thinning during perimenopause and shares the emotional toll of hair loss, how lifestyle factors like alcohol affected her hair, and the steps she took to restore its health - from upgrading her haircare routine to focusing on nutrition and holistic wellness. Donna emphasizes that hair thinning is a normal part of aging and offers practical tips and product recommendations to help you strengthen, grow, and care for hair at any age.Products mentioned:K18 Leave-In Molecular Hair Mask Living Proof No Frizz ShampooBumble & Bumble Hairdresser's Invisible Oil Heat ProtectantAquis Hair Towel Champo Scalp Massager Viviscal SupplementsGreat Length Extensions Michael Van Clarke 3 More Inches Conditioner If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to follow the podcast and leave a review. You can also follow Donna on Instagram and Tik Tok and subscribe to her substack, My Skin Type Is Sober too.
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Meno Belly & Weight Gain: A Realistic Fitness Guide
Why does all the weight in midlife go straight to your belly? And what actually works to shift it? In this week's chat, Donna is joined by menopause fitness coach Kate Rowe Ham, who shares her own story of transformation and the practical steps every woman can take to feel stronger through perimenopause and beyond.So whether you’re struggling with the stubborn extra 10lbs, wondering if it’s too late to start lifting, or simply looking for a more positive approach to your health and fitness, this episode is for you! Expect to learn:✨ It’s not your fault - hormonal changes drive fat distribution in menopause.✨ Why strength training is essential for women over 40.✨The importance of fueling your body, not starving it.✨The first steps to take for being fitter and healthier. ✨Why it’s never too late to start your fitness journey.Please check out Kate’s Owning Your Menopause community where she offers daily live workouts, step-by-step fitness plans and nutritional support. You can also follow Kate on Instagram, and buy her book Owning Your Menopause: Fitter, Calmer, Stronger in 30 Days here. And don’t forget to look out for The Longevity Solution, when it's published next year. If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the podcast and leave a review. You can also follow Donna on Instagram and Tik Tok and subscribe to her substack, My Skin Type Is Sober too.
Award-winning Beauty Editor, Donna Francis has spent the last 25 years helping women feel comfortable in their skin and with Smiling Gives You Wrinkles, Donna shares relatable and inspiring stories and expert advice to help women age with unapologetic joy and self-acceptance.
Ireland