Mad With The Menopause
Talking all things peri/meno/post menopause and all things in between.
Episodes

Nov 21, 2025
Nov 21, 2025
32 min
Today, we are welcoming Laurence Finn, founder of ‘Men Meet Menopause,’ and we will be discussing an often overlooked but profoundly important topic. Looking through the lens of partners, husbands, and fathers who are supporting the women in their lives.
Laurence shares his personal journey and explains why he created a platform dedicated to educating men on the physical, emotional, and psychological impact of menopause.
Get ready for an open, honest, and truly educational discussion that aims to transform awareness into actionable support.
KEY TAKE AWAYS:
Understanding Menopause and Its Impact
Navigating Misinformation and Seeking Help
Navigating the Healthcare System for Women’s Health
The Impact of Hormone Replacement Therapy
Understanding Perimenopause and Its Symptoms
Th Natural Journy of Women’s Hormonal Health
The Reality of Menopause Symptoms
Observing Changes in a Partner During Menopause
Creating a Supportive Community for Menopause Awareness
A Day in the Life of a Woman
Men Met Menopause: A New Initiative
Creating Conversations: Tools for Understanding
The Importance of Communication
Advice for Men Supporting Their Partners
USEFUL RESOURCES:
https://www.menmeetmenopause.com/
Instagram: @menmeetmenopause
ABOUT THE HOST:
Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources, and the Third Sector.
This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.
Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.
CONTACT ME:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/
E-mail: info@madwiththemenopause.com
Instagram: @anel.quilliam
DISCLAIMER:
The views of mine and those of my guests are just that. I therefore urge you to take advise from your medical practitioner, who knows your medical history and can therefore provide advice specific to your needs.
Tile Art by: Shawn Bennett (Rockingham Media CIC)

Nov 7, 2025
Nov 7, 2025
41 min
Today, we’re welcoming Caroline Bridge, who, captured the hearts of the nation, when she and her son Thomas won the recent series of BBC's Race Across the World.
Caroline’s journey from feeling like she’d lost her purpose after her son grew up, to trekking 14,000 kilometres across Asia, is a powerful story of rediscovery.
KEY TAKE AWAYS:
The Journey Begins: Race Across the World
Personal Growth and Family Dynamics
Challenges Faced During the Race
Overcoming Obstacles and Building Confidence
The Relationship Between Caroline and Tom
Navigating Different Cultures and Environments
Competition and Race Strategy
Reflections on the Experience and Future Aspirations
Building Bonds and Overcoming Self Doubt
The Thrill of Victory and Behind the Scenes
Life After Winning: Changes and Challenges
Finding Purpose Beyond Academics
Keeping Secrets and Celebrating Success
Adjusting to Life Back Home
Paying it Forward: A Commitment to Charity
The Journey of Self Discovery and Growth
Future Adventures
USEFUL RESOURCES:
Instagram: @caroline_and_tom and @ruggarural
Website to purchase imported rugs from India: https://www.ruggarural.co.uk/
‘Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained’ Podcast: with Caroline Bridge and Rebecca Rees
ABOUT THE HOST:
Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources, and the Third Sector.
This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.
Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.
CONTACT ME:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/
E-mail: info@madwiththemenopause.com
Instagram: @anel.quilliam
DISCLAIMER:
The views of mine and those of my guests are just that. I therefore urge you to take advise from your medical practitioner, who knows your medical history and can therefore provide advice specific to your needs.
Tile Art by: Shawn Bennett (Rockingham Media CIC)

Oct 24, 2025
Oct 24, 2025
29 min
Join me in conversation with Andrea Clare, the visionary and organiser of Scotland’s first ever Pause Summit, taking place in Glasgow on October 25th.
Andrea is a Creative Menopause Coach. Helping women understand, navigate, and thrive in midlife through creativity, drawing on her own terrible experience of the perimenopause.
KEY TAKE AWAYS:
Inspiration Behind the PAUSE Summit
Navigating Menopause: Personal Journey and Advocacy
Creating the Pause Live Summit
Understanding Menopause: Support and Self- Advocacy
Thriving Beyond Menopause: A New Perspective
Navigating Relationships During Menopause
The Importance of Open Conversations
The Pause Summit: A Safe Space for Women
Holistic Approaches to Menopause
Lifestyle Changes for Better Health
Self-Care Practises for Wellbeing
USEFUL RESOURCES:
Get your tickets here: https://scottishpausesummit.co.uk/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreaclareart/
ABOUT THE HOST:
Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources, and the Third Sector.
This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.
Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.
CONTACT ME:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/
E-mail: info@madwiththemenopause.com
Instagram: @anel.quilliam
DISCLAIMER:
The views of mine and those of my guests are just that. I therefore urge you to take advise from your medical practitioner, who knows your medical history and can therefore provide advice specific to your needs.
Tile Art by: Shawn Bennett (Rockingham Media CIC)

Oct 10, 2025
Oct 10, 2025
38 min
Join me for an insightful conversation with Heather Jackson, CEO and Co-Founder of GenM, a company dedicated to empowering menopausal consumers, by uniting brands and retailers with the menopause-friendly MTick symbol.
Heather’s own perimenopausal experience sparked the creation of GenM and the MTick, aiming to provide trusted product information and improve the overall experience for those going through menopause.
KEY TAKE AWAYS:
Introduction to Gen M and its Mission
The Importance of Menopause Awareness
Building Trust in Menopause Products
Empowering Women Through Menopause
Personal Journey and Motivation Behind Gen M
The Birth of Moogle: A Solution for Menopause
Understanding the Menopause Market
Building Trust: The M-Tick Initiative
Global Expansion and Retail Partnerships
Creating A Legacy for Future Generations
Empowering Women Through Education and Products
Changing the Narrative Around Menopause
Taking Control of Your Menopause Journey
Nutrition and Lifestyle Changes for Menopause
Living Our Best Lives Post Menopause
USEFUL RESOURCES:
Instagram: @genm_official
ABOUT THE HOST:
Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources, and the Third Sector.
This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.
Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.
CONTACT ME:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/
E-mail: info@madwiththemenopause.com
Instagram: @anel.quilliam
DISCLAIMER:
The views of mine and those of my guests are just that. I therefore urge you to take advise from your medical practitioner, who knows your medical history and can therefore provide advice specific to your needs.
Tile Art by: Shawn Bennett (Rockingham Media CIC)

Sep 26, 2025
Sep 26, 2025
40 min
Join me for an authentic conversation with the remarkable Candice Mason, founder of Mother Cuppa.
Candice’s passion for her work is evident in our conversation and her tea blends, which has been developed to support women’s hormone health and wellbeing, has been as a result of her endometriosis diagnoses more than 20 years ago.
KEY TAKE AWAYS:
Introduction to Mother Cuppa and Health Journey
Understanding Endometriosis and Its Impact
The Journey to Becoming a Tea Sommelier
The Art of Tea: From Plant to Cup
The Journey to Mother Cuppa: A Personal Story
Navigating Menopause: A Personal Story
Creating a Business: From Passion to Product
The Blends of Mother Cuppa: Tailored for Women
Building Community: The Power of Connection
Navigating Vulnerability in Business
Overcoming Self-doubt and Imposter Syndrome
The Impact of Social Media and Self-Perception
The Importance of Open Conversations
Practising Self-Care Amidst Busy Lives
Finding Balance in a Fast-Paced World
The Power of Acceptance and Mindset Work.
USEFUL RESOURCES:
Discount code: MAD25
https://mothercuppatea.com/discount/MAD25?redirect=%2Fcollections%2Fmother-cuppa-tea-wellness-collection
Connect with the CommuniTEA
https://www.instagram.com/mother_cuppatea/
ABOUT THE HOST:
Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources and the Third Sector.
This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.
Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.
CONTACT ME:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/
E-mail: info@madwiththemenopause.com
Instagram: @anel.quilliam
DISCLAIMER:
The views of mine and those of my guests are just that. I therefore urge you to take advise from your medical practitioner, who knows your medical history and can therefore provide advice specific to your needs.
Tile Art by: Shawn Bennett (Rockingham Media CIC)

Sep 12, 2025
Sep 12, 2025
42 min
Charlotte is the powerhouse behind Pause Live, the UK’s leading menopause event. Fuelled by her own experience and a fierce commitment to change, she’s built a bold, inclusive platform that’s redefining how we talk about women’s health.
Through Pause Live, Charlotte is turning personal insight into collective empowerment—one taboo-smashing conversation at a time.
KEY TAKE AWAYS:
The Birth of Pause Live!
Navigating Menopause: Personal Experiences and Solutions
Advocacy for Women’s Health
Navigating Relationships and Menopause
Menopause in the Workplace
Building Support Networks
The Joy of Dance and the Community
Breaking Taboos: Open Conversations
Education and Community Support
Accessing Resources and Support
Get your tickets!
USEFUL RESOURCES:
https://www.linkedin.com/company/pausemia
https://www.instagram.com/pauselive
https://www.pauselive.com/
Discount code: PAUSE10
ABOUT THE HOST:
Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources and the Third Sector.
This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.
Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.
CONTACT ME:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/
E-mail: info@madwiththemenopause.com
Instagram: @anel.quilliam
DISCLAIMER:
The views of mine and those of my guests are just that. I therefore urge you to take advise from your medical practitioner, who knows your medical history and can therefore provide advice specific to your needs.
Tile Art by: Shawn Bennett (Rockingham Media CIC)

Aug 29, 2025
Aug 29, 2025
39 min
In today’s episode I will be speaking to Catherine Pearson, a certified health, nutrition and fitness coach, that specialises in helping women in their 40s, 50s, and beyond, to build stronger bodies.
Catherine’s honest and authentic account about her journey into this work, has been as a direct result of her own lived experience, having suffered from bulimia for decades when she was younger and the decision, she took to leave a relationship that didn’t serve her.
KEY TAKE AWAYS:
Catherine’s Journey to Supporting Women
Understanding Bulimia and Body Image
Common Menopausal Symptoms and Emotional Wellbeing
Empowering Women for a Healthier Future
The Importance of Individualised Health Approaches
Building Muscle Mass for Menopause Management
The Role of Muscle in Aging and Health
Supporting Women Through Coaching and Community
Prioritising Self Care
Contacting Catherine
USEFUL RESOURCES:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themidlifebodycoach/
Website: https://thelonglifehealthclub.com
Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/catherine-pearson
E-mail: catherine@thelonglifehealthclub.com
ABOUT THE HOST:
Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources and the Third Sector.
This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.
Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.
CONTACT ME:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/
E-mail: info@madwiththemenopause.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/anel.quilliam
DISCLAIMER:
The views of mine and those of my guests are just that. I therefore urge you to take advise from your medical practitioner, who knows your medical history and can therefore provide advice specific to your needs.
Tile Art by: Shawn Bennett (Rockingham Media CIC)

Aug 15, 2025
Aug 15, 2025
37 min
In today’s episode, Anél will be speaking with Dr. Shilpa McQuillan, founder and clinical lead of Berkshire Menopause Clinic, a dedicated specialist menopause and women's health clinic, based in Henley. Dr. McQuillan is a British Menopause Society accredited menopause specialist, NHS community gynaecologist and women’s health GP and British Menopause Society Accredited Specialist.
In 2024, Shilpa was awarded as Fellow of the Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists (FRCOG), the highest accolade awarded by RCOG.
KEY TAKE AWAYS:
Understanding Menopause: Definitions and Differences
Common and Uncommon Symptoms of Menopause
Menopause and Bone Health: Osteoporosis Risks
Cardiovascular Health and Menopause
HRT: Choices and Considerations
Understanding HRT and Women’s Health Choices
Merging Treatments in Menopause Management
The Importance of Informed Decisions
Impact of Hormonal Changes on Mental Health
Correlation Between PMDD and Perimenopause
Advocating for Yourself in Healthcare
Self-care Strategies
Celebrating Achievements in Women’s Health
Connecting with Dr. Shilpa
USEFUL RESOURCES:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/berkshiremenopauseclinic
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@berkshiremenopauseclinic
Website: https://berkshiremenopauseclinic.com/
ABOUT THE HOST:
Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources and the Third Sector.
This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.
Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.
CONTACT ME:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/
E-mail: info@madwiththemenopause.com
DISCLAIMER:
The views of mine and those of my guests are just that. I therefore urge you to take advise from your medical practitioner, who knows your medical history and can therefore provide advice specific to your needs.
Tile Art by: Shawn Bennett (Rockingham Media CIC)

Aug 1, 2025
Aug 1, 2025
35 min
In today’s episode, Anél will be speaking with Caroline Hanna, one of the co-founders of Peachie, a purpose-driven functional food brand aimed at supporting women's health and wellbeing through nutrition. Drawing on her background in brand marketing, Caroline teamed up with three other founders from different life stages to address female health needs—starting with innovative seed and nut toppings designed for women, especially those navigating menopause. With a passion for empowering women to feel their best, Caroline’s work at Peachie is inspired by real conversations and a commitment to positive change in women’s lives.
KEY TAKE AWAYS:
Introduction to Peachie and its Purpose
Nutrition and Digestive Health
The Founding Story of Peachie
Empowering Women Through Peachie
Building a Community Around Female Health
Innovative Snack Creations
Nutritional Foundations and Ingredient Selection
Collaboration with Experts for Product Development
Partnerships and Community Engagement
Retail Strategies for Menopause Products
Expanding Product Availability
Future Product Innovations
Balancing Taste and Nutrition
Embracing Wellness: The Importance of Nutrition and Vitamin D
Personal Experiences: Navigating Perimenopause
Strength Training and its Impact on Health
Finding Community and Support During Menopause
Connecting with Nature: The Therapeutic Benefits
Breaking the Stigma: Open Conversations About Menopause
Empowering Women: The importance of Feeling Good.
USEFUL RESOURCES:
Purchase Peachie: https://feelingpeachie.co.uk/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-hanna-5a42a01/
ABOUT THE HOST:
Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources and the Third Sector.
This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.
Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.
CONTACT ME:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/
E-mail: info@madwiththemenopause.com
DISCLAIMER:
The views of mine and those of my guests are just that. I therefore urge you to take advise from your medical practitioner, who knows your medical history and can therefore provide advice specific to your needs.
Tile Art by: Shawn Bennett (Rockingham Media CIC)

Jul 18, 2025
Jul 18, 2025
43 min
Jo first became aware of the challenges women face during menopause, through the many coaching clients, who expressed feelings of reduced capability and confidence.
Recognising the impact of these symptoms on their personal and professional lives, inspired Jo to create a solution and a space where women could find support and guidance.
Jo is also the founder of ‘What the Fog?' Understanding Menopause & Perimenopause. Facebook group.
KEY TAKE AWAYS:
Journey to Menopause Coaching
Defining Menopause Coaching
Psychological Impact of Menopause
Understanding and Normalising Menopause
Strategies for Managing Menopause
The Importance of Support and Education
Self-Care and Personal Experiences
Navigating the Emotional Turmoil of Perimenopause
The Impact of Hormonal Changes on Relationships
The Role of Hormones in Overall Health
Finding Support: The Importance of Healthcare Providers
The Need for Advocacy in Women’s Health
Changing the Narrative Around Menopause
Creating Community: What the Fog Facebook Group
The Journey of Building a Support Group
Addressing Misunderstandings in Menopause Discussions
Holistic Approaches to Health During Menopause
Connecting with Jo: Resources and Support
USEFUL RESOURCES:
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/740710540001100
Courage Coaching: https://courage-coaching.co.uk/
Email: Jo@courage-coaching.co.uk
ABOUT THE HOST:
Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources and the Third Sector.
This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.
Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.
CONTACT ME:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/
E-mail: info@madwiththemenopause.com
DISCLAIMER:
The views of mine and those of my guests are just that. I therefore urge you to take advise from your medical practitioner, who knows your medical history and can therefore provide advice specific to your needs.
Tile Art by: Shawn Bennett (Rockingham Media CIC)



