179 - Menopause & Loss: Finding Identity, Confidence, and New Beginnings in Midlife

Menopause is often talked about in terms of hot flushes, sleepless nights, and mood swings — but beneath those symptoms lies something deeper: loss. In this powerful episode, Nicole van Hattem — menopause coach, TEDx speaker, and host of Hot & Healthy Menopause — explores the many layers of loss women face during this transition, with honesty, compassion, and a touch of sass. ✨ You'll hear about: The loss of oestrogen and how it impacts body, brain, and emotions Nicole's personal journey of finding new beauty in the mirror — and how to change the algorithm to see ageing differently The loss of fertility and her own grief in never becoming a mother (plus the joy of being a dog mum) How midlife women can reframe their value in the workplace and show up stronger in careers or businesses Reviewing career changes and learning when it's time to slow down or shift direction The changing nature of relationships, intimacy, and desire as hormones shift Why our hobbies, food, and drink don't always suit us anymore — and how to adapt with humour The truth about identity and confidence in midlife, and how to rebuild them piece by piece Nicole closes the episode with her original poem, Hot Flashes & Farewells — a sassy, humorous, and uplifting reflection on loss and reinvention in menopause. 💬 If you've ever felt like you've lost part of yourself in menopause, this episode will remind you: every ending creates space for a new beginning. 👉 Book a coaching session with Nicole at nicolevanhattem.com 👉 Join the Hot & Healthy Menopause community on Facebook #Menopause #MidlifeWomen #MenopauseSupport #MenopausePodcast #HotAndHealthyMenopause