Healthy Banter's Podcast

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we sit down with Associate Professor Shelley Wilkinson, women’s health dietitian and clinician-researcher, to unpack what women really need to know about nutrition across the lifespan.From fertility and pregnancy through to postpartum and perimenopause, Shelley breaks down how a woman’s nutritional needs change—and what actually matters (without the overwhelm). We cut through the noise of diet culture and online misinformation to bring you clear, evidence-based advice you can apply in real life.We also take a deep dive into one of the most underrated nutrients: fibre. Shelley explains why fibre is essential not just for gut health, but also for hormones, energy, blood sugar balance, and long-term health—and how to easily get more of it into your day.This episode is all about practical, no-guilt nutrition—helping you feel more confident in how you fuel your body at every stage of life.For more of Shelley and amazing free online resources, books, blogs, as well as the capability of booking an appointment, including telehealth, if you feel that you would benefit from guidance or a dietary review, follow the links below. https://lifestylematernity.com.au/https://lifestyleperimenopause.com.au/For 10% off Shelley's "Nourish & Nurture", please enter the code HB10Looking for more Healthy Banter? Check out our website at https://www.healthybanter.com.au/ or follow us https://www.instagram.com/healthybanter.podcast/

Send us Fan MailThis episode is all about evidence-based conversations around perimenopause and menopause management, without the overwhelm.We’re joined by endocrinologist Dr Sonia Davison, who helps unpack what’s actually happening with your hormones and why you might be feeling the way you do.We walk you through what to expect at each stage, from the early hormonal shifts of perimenopause through to postmenopause—covering symptoms like sleep changes, mood swings, hot flushes, pelvic health, and more.This episode breaks things down simply, with a clear recap and practical tips you can actually use—whether that’s exercise strategies, lifestyle tweaks, or knowing when to seek extra support.Plus, you’ll get links to trusted, free resources and educational tools so you can go deeper, feel more in control, and stop second-guessing what’s happening in your body.Jean Hailes for Women's Health https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/Australasian Menopause Society https://www.menopause.org.au/Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/Better Health Channel https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/Looking for more Healthy Banter? Check out our website at https://www.healthybanter.com.au/ or follow us https://www.instagram.com/healthybanter.podcast/

Send us Fan MailFrom the first hormonal shifts of puberty to the complex transitions of menopause, hormones shape every stage of a woman’s life — but how much do we really understand them?In this episode, we’re joined by leading endocrinologist Dr Sonia Davison for a refreshing, no-nonsense conversation about all things hormones. We unpack what’s happening beneath the surface during puberty, reproductive years, perimenopause and menopause. Dr Davison breaks down the science in a way that actually makes sense, while tackling common myths, the real impact hormones can have on mood, energy and overall wellbeing.This is the kind of conversation every woman deserves to hear — whether you’re navigating your first cycle or your final one.Jean Hailes for Women's Health https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/Australasian Menopause Society https://www.menopause.org.au/

Send us Fan MailMenopause is a major transition — but when it overlaps with eating disorders, things can get a whole lot more complex.In this episode, we’re joined by Professor Gemma Sharp to explore the often-overlooked link between menopause, body image, and disordered eating. We dive into the symptom crossover that can make this stage of life particularly challenging.We also get practical, discussing how to find a menopause-aware GP, where to seek support, and what resources are available if you or someone you know is struggling during this time.It’s an honest, evidence-informed conversation that shines a light on a space that deserves far more attention — with insight that’s valuable for both women and clinicians alike.Free resource - Menopause and Eating Disorders https://learn.eatingdisorders.org.au/courses/menopause-and-eating-disordersHere is Australian JEM chatbot (https://sharp-group.web.app/jem) and Canadian JEM chatbot (https://nedic.ca/jem/). ED ESSI chatbot is connected to clinical services (rather than being publicly available) as it provides a single session intervention which leads onto ongoing care but if someone did want to suggest ED ESSI for their clinical service, they can contact via email at [email protected]. Australasian Menopause Society https://www.menopause.org.au/Looking for more Healthy Banter? Check out our website at https://www.healthybanter.com.au/ or follow us https://www.instagram.com/healthybanter.podcast/

Send us Fan MailIf you’ve ever caught yourself stuck in the comparison trap, hyper-focusing on perceived flaws, or wondering why body image feels so complicated, this episode is a must-listen.What do we actually mean when we talk about body image — and when does concern about appearance cross the line into body dysmorphia?During this episode, part 2 of 3, we sit down with clinical psychologist and body image expert Professor Gemma Sharp to unpack the complex relationship many of us have with our bodies.Gemma shares what body dysmorphic disorder really looks like, why so many people struggle silently with body image concerns, and how social media, comparison culture and perfectionism can shape the way we see ourselves. We also explore the difference between normal body dissatisfaction and clinical body dysmorphia, the warning signs to look out for, and practical ways to start building a healthier relationship with your body.This conversation is thoughtful, evidence-based and refreshingly honest.If someone did want to read more about body dysmorphia, mental health assessments and cosmetic interventions, Gemma was lead expert on these guidelines: https://psychology.org.au/getmedia/5016efba-cb58-4cd5-a472-4313a1a70483/18aps-pp-cosmetic-surgery-p1a-web.pdfEating Disorders Victoria and CoRe-ED website where people can register for free. https://learn.eatingdisorders.org.au/courses/menopause-and-eating-disordersProfessor Gemma Sharp website https://sharp-group.com.au/Looking for more Healthy Banter? Check out our website at https://www.healthybanter.com.au/ or follow us https://www.instagram.com/healthybanter.podcast/

Send us Fan MailThis episode is an important one. In part 1 of 3, we have a discussion with professor Gemma Sharp about eating disorders, body image, and how these issues are showing up earlier and earlier in our kids. This conversation unpacks early warning signs, body image concerns, what to say at home and when to seek help and where to start.Gemma was a wonderful guest, providing clinical insight into this topic with her warm and caring nature. For links and further information, here is Prof Gemma Sharp's website link: https://sharp-group.com.au/Here is Australian JEM chatbot (https://sharp-group.web.app/jem) and Canadian JEM chatbot (https://nedic.ca/jem/). ED ESSI chatbot is connected to clinical services (rather than being publicly available) as it provides a single session intervention which leads onto ongoing care but if someone did want to suggest ED ESSI for their clinical service, they can contact via email at [email protected]. Here's a media piece about ED ESSI for more info: https://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/health-and-wellness/it-gave-me-hope-how-a-single-ai-session-put-kelly-on-a-path-to-eating-disorder-recovery-20250526-p5m280.htmlLooking for more Healthy Banter? Check out our website at https://www.healthybanter.com.au/ or follow us https://www.instagram.com/healthybanter.podcast/

Send us Fan MailPreview to a new podcast - Healthy Banter. A podcast by women, about women, for women. Join Meg & Jules for real, honest conversations that blend clinical insights with everyday life. Together with their guests, they explore what it means to gain strength, build confidence, and live better—every single day.