SHE2.0

You're eating the same foods. Doing the same workouts. Living in the same body. Except suddenly, your body feels different. Like you don't really recognize it anymore. Sound familiar? In the first episode of this new She2.0 and WellnessMD podcast series, Jacquie sits down with Dr. Daniela Steyn to talk about weight, nutrition and body composition during perimenopause and menopause. They get into abdominal weight gain, the importance of maintaining muscle, blood sugar crashes, intermittent fasting and why waking up at 3:00 a.m. may not always be caused by hormones alone. Dr. Steyn also explains how Ozempic and other GLP 1 medications can reduce food noise and support weight loss, along with the potential trap of relying on appetite suppression without paying attention to nutrition, protein and muscle. In this episode: • Why familiar eating and exercise habits may stop producing familiar results • The difference between weight and body composition • Why muscle matters so much in midlife • What Ozempic means by quieting "food noise" • Why weight loss can also lead to muscle loss • How blood sugar may contribute to middle of the night waking • Whether intermittent fasting is right for every woman • Simple ways to make eating well more realistic • Why personalization matters more than another universal menopause rule This series was created in partnership with WellnessMD. She2.0 provides general information and conversation, not medical advice. The opinions and claims expressed by guests are their own and are not necessarily endorsed by She2.0. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional regarding your health, medication and treatment decisions.

Menopause comes with enough questions. Finding clear, credible information shouldn't create another 47. This fall, She2.0 is launching a special limited podcast series with Dr. Daniela Steyn of WellnessMD, created to help women better understand menopause and navigate some of the conversations that come with it. We'll be talking about the menopause brain, hormone therapy, sexual health, symptoms, navigating menopause care in Canada and how to have more useful conversations with your healthcare provider. And we're going to talk about something else that matters: how to listen to health information critically. Because this series is a conversation, not a prescription. Dr. Steyn is sharing her clinical experience, interpretations of the research and medical opinions. Those views are her own and shouldn't be taken as individualized medical advice. They also don't necessarily represent the views of She2.0. I'll be asking questions, occasionally challenging things, and doing what I always want She2.0 to do: helping women get better information so they can ask better questions. It's also worth remembering that not every new symptom in midlife is menopause. Symptoms can overlap with other health conditions, so new, persistent or concerning symptoms deserve proper medical assessment. In this short introductory episode, I'm sharing why I wanted to create this series, what you can expect when it launches this fall, and why I think conversations like these matter. No miracle cures. No one size fits all answers. No pretending menopause is simple. It..is...not. Just candid conversations, credible information and a better starting point for figuring out what makes sense for you. Navigating Menopause in Canada with Dr. Daniela Steyn, coming this fall from She2.0 and WellnessMD.  

Introducing a new She2.0 limited series with Dr. Daniela Steyn Menopause comes with enough questions. Finding clear, credible information shouldn't create another 47. This fall, She2.0 is launching a special limited podcast series with Dr. Daniela Steyn of WellnessMD, created to help women better understand menopause and navigate some of the conversations that come with it. We'll be talking about the menopause brain, hormone therapy, sexual health, symptoms, navigating menopause care in Canada and how to have more useful conversations with your healthcare provider. And we're going to talk about something else that matters: how to listen to health information critically. Because this series is a conversation, not a prescription. Dr. Steyn is sharing her clinical experience, interpretations of the research and medical opinions. Those views are her own and shouldn't be taken as individualized medical advice. They also don't necessarily represent the views of She2.0. I'll be asking questions, occasionally challenging things, and doing what I always want She2.0 to do: helping women get better information so they can ask better questions. It's also worth remembering that not every new symptom in midlife is menopause. Symptoms can overlap with other health conditions, so new, persistent or concerning symptoms deserve proper medical assessment. In this short introductory episode, I'm sharing why I wanted to create this series, what you can expect when it launches this fall, and why I think conversations like these matter. No miracle cures. No one size fits all answers. No pretending menopause is simple. It..is...not. Just candid conversations, credible information and a better starting point for figuring out what makes sense for you. Navigating Menopause in Canada with Dr. Daniela Steyn, coming this fall from She2.0 and WellnessMD.

Welcome to Honest Conversations, a series from The 3AM Club where we pull up a chair and explore the questions many of us are thinking about, but don't always say out loud. This week, we're asking: Why is it always our bodies? When we're tired, it's our body. When we gain weight, it's our body. When our libido changes, it's our body. But when did we become so quick to assume our bodies are the problem? In this episode, I unpack everything from failed cervixes and geriatric pregnancies to bingo wings, Botox and bathing suits, and why so many of us have inherited stories about our bodies that deserve another look. This isn't about body positivity. It's about curiosity. ☕ Pull up a chair. Let's talk. In this conversation • Why women often blame their bodies first • How language quietly shapes our relationship with our bodies • The difference between caring for your body and constantly trying to improve it • What research tells us about body image in midlife • The question I'm asking myself this week Mentioned in this episode Curious about the research behind today's conversation? I've summarized it in plain English over on She2.0, along with links to the original studies. Visit our Substack to learn more Continue the conversation 📸 Read this week's Honest Conversation on Instagram. ✍️ Continue reading on Substack. 💬 Join the discussion in the She2.0 Facebook Group.

After years of conversations about menopause, hormones, sleep, weight, relationships, aging, and women's health, the She2.0 podcast is evolving. In this episode, I share why I believe many women in midlife are not lacking information, but struggling to make sense of it. Midlife brings changes to our bodies, identities, relationships, priorities, and sense of self, often all at once. Yet we are frequently left wondering why we no longer feel like ourselves. This conversation explores why midlife can feel so disorienting, why so many women interpret change as personal failure, and why understanding what is happening may matter more than collecting more advice. Moving forward, She2.0 will continue to feature expert conversations on health, menopause, and aging, while also exploring the deeper questions surrounding identity, self trust, expectations, and what it means to navigate change well. If you've ever found yourself thinking, "I don't feel like myself anymore," this episode is for you.

How does menopause affect a marriage or long term relationship? In this episode, Jacquie Court sits down with her husband Brian to discuss the emotional, relational, and communication challenges many couples experience during midlife and menopause. Together they explore why menopause can create misunderstandings, emotional distance, defensiveness, and conflict, even in strong relationships, and what both partners can do to better understand each other's experience. This conversation covers: • Menopause and relationship changes • Communication challenges during midlife • Emotional shifts and misunderstandings • Supporting a partner through menopause • Marriage, intimacy, and connection • Why couples often feel disconnected during periods of change Most couples are not fighting about what they think they're fighting about. This conversation explores what is happening underneath the conflict and how greater understanding can strengthen relationships through midlife.

What happens when your friendships change in midlife? For many women, perimenopause and midlife bring unexpected shifts in relationships. The friendships that once felt effortless can start to feel misaligned, while new connections emerge that reflect who we're becoming. In this episode, Jacquie and her guest Jessica explore friendship in midlife, including the grief of outgrowing relationships, the challenges of changing identity, and the surprising freedom that comes from building a more intentional circle. Together they discuss: • Why outgrowing people is not betrayal, but a natural part of growth • How perimenopause and midlife can change our tolerance, priorities, and relationships • The difference between being genuinely supported and simply being placated • The emotional impact of losing friendships and finding new ones • What our friendships teach our children about boundaries, self respect, and connection • Why the strongest midlife friendships are often intentional, earned, and built from shared values This is an honest conversation about friendship, identity, change, and belonging in midlife. If you've ever looked around and wondered why your circle got smaller while your life got bigger, this episode is for you.

How does unresolved trauma show up in midlife? And why do so many women find old wounds resurfacing during perimenopause? In this episode, Jacquie sits down with her friend Lenore for an honest conversation about childhood trauma, PTSD, healing, and what happens when experiences you've carried for decades finally demand attention. Lenore shares how perimenopause brought long buried trauma back to the surface, why surviving difficult experiences doesn't automatically mean you've healed from them, and how therapy, self awareness, and telling the truth about your story can become part of recovery. Together they discuss: • Childhood trauma and its long term impact • PTSD in women and midlife mental health • Why perimenopause can intensify unresolved emotional experiences • The connection between trauma, parenting, and relationships • Therapy, healing, and reclaiming your voice • What it means to tell your story on your own terms This is a powerful conversation about trauma recovery, resilience, mental health, and the realities many women face in midlife. If you've ever wondered why old experiences seem to resurface later in life, this episode offers understanding, perspective, and hope.

Ever feel like your career is running you instead of the other way around? Or that you've outgrown the version of yourself that once fit neatly into your LinkedIn bio? Meet Marla Simlett - or as she's better known, Marvelous Marla - a woman who walked away from corporate HR, a pension, and predictability to chase something far scarier: joy. In this episode, Marla shares how she turned her midlife "What now?" into a full-on pivot - blending therapy, humor, and a whole lot of courage to create Laughter Intelligence™. We talk about learning to trust yourself (again), using laughter to crack open transformation, and why it's okay - no, necessary - to move at a snail's pace when you're rebuilding a life that actually fits. Because midlife isn't the end of the story. It's the plot twist. Take a listen if you've ever: Wondered if you're too old to start over (spoiler: you're not) Laughed your way through tears - or needed to Been told you're "lucky to have a stable job" but felt your soul shrinking anyway Wanted permission to be bold, scared, and snailing all at once This is your reminder that reinvention doesn't have an expiry date. And laughter? It might just be the best medicine after all - minus the side effects. About Marla: Marla Simlett is a speaker, emcee, and Registered Clinical Counsellor who helps people learn and laugh their way to becoming their greatest selves. She created Laughter Intelligence™, a framework that blends insight, humour, and heart to unlock trust, wellness, and lasting change. When she's not on stage, you'll find her biking around Vancouver, baking allergy-friendly treats, or treasure-hunting for thrifted finds.

Thinking about a career change in midlife? Wondering if it's too late to reinvent yourself? In this episode, Jacquie sits down with entrepreneur Janet Lewis to discuss what it really takes to make a successful midlife career pivot, find new purpose, and build a business aligned with your values. After decades in e-commerce and corporate consulting, Janet stepped away from the traditional hustle and created a thriving community focused on connection, collaboration, and supporting women in business. Together they discuss: • How to recognize when it's time for a career or life change • The realities of reinvention after 40 and 50 • Managing fear, uncertainty, and self doubt during major transitions • Building confidence after a career pivot • Why women often undervalue their expertise and how to change that • Creating meaningful professional networks and communities • Finding purpose and fulfillment in the second half of life This conversation explores midlife reinvention, entrepreneurship, women's leadership, career transitions, and the opportunities that emerge when experience and purpose finally align. If you've ever found yourself asking, "Is this really what I want for the next twenty years?" this episode is for you. Have a listen to Janet Lewis - Founder, Business Owner, Connectiavist and Eternal Optimist

Can menopause become a catalyst for reinvention rather than decline? In this episode, Jacquie sits down with Louise Neil, Women's Career Empowerment Strategist and founder of Menomentum, to explore menopause, midlife transitions, workplace challenges, and what it really takes to create a life that fits who you are now. After stepping away from a successful career, Louise built a movement focused on improving menopause awareness and support in the workplace. She shares how burnout, hormonal changes, and shifting priorities led her to rethink her work, identity, and purpose. Together they discuss: • Why menopause is not just a health issue but a workplace, cultural, and economic issue • How to distinguish between burnout, chronic stress, and hormonal changes • Why symptom tracking can provide valuable insight during perimenopause and menopause • The connection between menopause, career transitions, and personal reinvention • How to navigate change with more confidence, clarity, and self awareness • Why midlife can be a period of growth, not decline This conversation explores menopause in the workplace, women's health, career change, burnout, midlife identity, and the opportunities that emerge when women stop trying to fit lives they've outgrown. If you're navigating menopause, questioning what's next, or considering a major life or career shift, this episode offers practical insight and a fresh perspective on what's possible. 👉 Listen now and join the conversation.   Hear more from Louise Website: https://louiseneil.co Menomentum: https://menomentum.org LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louise-neil/ Substack: https://www.substack.thisistherag

What happens when success no longer feels fulfilling? In this episode, Jacquie sits down with Elisa Kosonen, former fashion editor, registered holistic nutritionist, and founder of 14 Carrots, to discuss burnout, perimenopause, career reinvention, and what it takes to start over in midlife. After building a successful career in the fashion industry, Elisa reached a point where the life she had created no longer aligned with who she was becoming. Her journey led her from burnout and uncertainty to a new career focused on helping women improve their health, energy, and resilience. Together they discuss: • The warning signs of burnout women often overlook • How perimenopause can affect energy, motivation, and wellbeing • Why a midlife career change is often about alignment, not failure • The transferable skills women bring into their next chapter • Building confidence when starting over after 40 • Supporting health, resilience, and purpose during midlife transitions This conversation explores burnout recovery, perimenopause, career reinvention, women's health, and the opportunities that emerge when you stop living a life that no longer fits. If you've ever found yourself wondering, "Is this really what I want?" this episode offers practical insight and encouragement for navigating change in midlife. 👉 Resources & Links from this episode: ·       Learn more about Elisa and 14 Carrots here ·       Follow She2.0 for more unfiltered midlife conversations: @She2dot0 and on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@she2.0 🎧 Listen in for real talk on midlife pivots, perimenopause, burnout, and how to build the next act of your life without apology.

Confused about menopause symptoms, hormones, or treatment options? You're not alone. In this episode, Jacquie sits down with menopause advocate and educator Shirley Weir to answer some of the most common questions women ask about perimenopause, menopause, hormones, and healthy aging. Together they discuss: • Common menopause and perimenopause symptoms • Hot flashes, sleep disruption, mood changes, and brain fog • Hormone health and understanding what's happening in your body • Questions to ask your healthcare provider • Treatment options and menopause management strategies • How to advocate for yourself and make informed decisions about your health Shirley shares practical information, expert insight, and real-world advice to help women better understand menopause and navigate this transition with greater confidence. Whether you're experiencing symptoms yourself or simply want reliable information about what to expect, this episode offers a helpful starting point for understanding menopause and taking charge of your health.  

Struggling with weight gain, brain fog, low energy, or feeling unlike yourself during perimenopause? In this episode, Jacquie sits down with Sarah Gibson, founder of Vitality Health Matrix, to discuss the hormone imbalances that can affect women during perimenopause and menopause and the practical strategies that may help. After navigating her own perimenopause journey and significant weight loss, Sarah dedicated her career to helping women better understand the connection between hormones, metabolism, energy, and overall wellbeing. Together they discuss: • Common hormone imbalances that can affect women in midlife • Why brain fog, fatigue, and weight gain are often connected • The relationship between hormones, metabolism, and energy levels • Practical strategies to support hormone health during perimenopause • Why many women struggle to get answers about menopause symptoms • Steps women can take to better understand what's happening in their bodies This conversation explores perimenopause, menopause symptoms, hormone health, weight management, brain health, and healthy aging. If you're feeling frustrated by unexplained symptoms or looking for practical ways to support your health during midlife, this episode offers insight, education, and actionable ideas to discuss with your healthcare provider.

Why are so many women eating better, exercising more, and still gaining weight in midlife? After cutting back on wine, adding Pilates, yoga, and strength training, I expected the scale to move in the right direction. Instead, I gained weight. So I handed my food journal and exercise log to nutrition coach and body transformation expert Sara Frenza and asked her to tell me what I was missing. The answer was not what I expected. In this episode, Sara reviews my real nutrition and exercise habits and explains some of the most common mistakes women make when trying to lose weight during perimenopause and midlife. Together we discuss: • Why eating "healthy" doesn't always lead to weight loss • The nutrition mistakes that can quietly stall progress • How metabolism, hormones, and body composition change in midlife • Why exercise alone is often not enough • The role of strength training, protein, and recovery • What sustainable weight loss actually looks like after 40 Sara also shares her own experience overcoming chronic dieting and significant weight gain before developing a more sustainable approach to body composition, metabolic health, and long term wellness. If you've ever found yourself asking, "I'm doing everything right, so why isn't anything changing?" this conversation may help explain why. Sara has been published in top fitness magazines such as Strong Fitness magazine, Inside Fitness magazine, D'Fyne Fitness and Muscle and Health magazine, and has graced the covers multiple times.    Tune in!

What does alcohol actually do to your body during perimenopause and menopause? And is quitting completely the only answer? In this episode, Jacquie sits down with holistic health consultant and Branch Out Wellness founder Laura Bradburn for an honest conversation about alcohol, menopause, hormones, energy, sleep, and long term health. After experimenting with drinking less herself, Jacquie shares what changed, what surprised her, and why the conversation around alcohol feels different in midlife than it did in earlier decades. Together they explore: • How alcohol affects women differently during perimenopause and menopause • The connection between alcohol, hormones, sleep, energy, and weight gain • What recent health research says about alcohol consumption • Whether moderation is realistic or if abstinence is the better choice • Why so many women use alcohol to cope with stress, overwhelm, and social pressure • Alternatives for women who want to reduce their drinking without feeling deprived This is not a conversation about perfection. It's a practical discussion about making informed choices, understanding risk, and finding an approach that works for your life. If you've ever wondered whether your nightly glass of wine is helping or hurting your health, this episode is for you.  

What happens when the business you built stays young, but you don't? For many women entrepreneurs, success creates an unexpected challenge. The audience, brand, and identity that helped build the business may stay exactly where they are while your own life continues to evolve. In this episode, Jacquie sits down with Julie Cole, co-founder of Mabel's Labels, to discuss aging, entrepreneurship, leadership, and what it means to remain relevant as both a founder and a woman in midlife. Together they explore: • How entrepreneurship changes as you move through different stages of life • The identity shifts many women experience in midlife • Staying connected to your audience when your personal life has evolved • Leadership, reinvention, and building a business that can grow beyond you • The realities of aging in industries that often celebrate youth • Why experience may be a greater competitive advantage than we realize Julie shares honest insights about growing older while leading a brand associated with young families, navigating personal and professional transitions, and redefining success in midlife. Whether you're a business owner, entrepreneur, executive, or simply questioning what's next, this conversation offers a thoughtful perspective on reinvention, relevance, and the opportunities that come with experience.

What if aging wasn't something to fear, but one of society's greatest untapped advantages? In this episode, Jacquie sits down with Zoe Share and Amy Altwerger, co-founders of Rosie's Roadshow, to discuss aging, ageism, workplace culture, and why age diversity may be one of the biggest opportunities facing organizations today. While many conversations focus on the challenges of getting older, Zoe and Amy are working to change the narrative. Through their work, they help organizations recognize the value of experience, wisdom, and intergenerational collaboration in an increasingly age-diverse workforce. Together we explore: • Why ageism remains one of the most overlooked forms of bias • The business case for age diversity in the workplace • How organizations can better support employees across every stage of life • Leadership lessons that come with experience • Why the aging economy represents a major opportunity for innovation • How changing the way we think about aging benefits everyone This conversation challenges outdated assumptions about growing older and offers a fresh perspective on the role age, experience, and wisdom play in building stronger workplaces, communities, and careers. If you've ever wondered how we can create a culture that values people at every age, this episode is for you.

Psychedelic therapy is generating growing interest, but what does the process actually involve? In this episode, Jacquie sits down with psychedelic integration coach Oni to explore the emerging world of psychedelic-assisted therapy and why more women are becoming curious about its potential role in mental health, personal growth, and healing. This conversation goes beyond the headlines to discuss what psychedelic therapy is, what it isn't, and why integration may be just as important as the experience itself. Together we explore: • What psychedelic-assisted therapy actually involves • The difference between a psychedelic experience and therapeutic integration • Why women may seek psychedelic therapy for depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, or life transitions • The importance of safety, preparation, and professional support • Ethical considerations and common misconceptions • What the current research is telling us about psychedelic therapies Oni shares her perspective as a psychedelic integration coach and discusses the questions women should ask when considering this type of therapeutic approach. Whether you're curious, skeptical, or simply looking to understand the conversation around psychedelic therapy, this episode offers a thoughtful and balanced introduction to an evolving area of mental health care.

Today's episode is starring me, Jacquie Court. I have shared so many stories from experts and amazing women but I've never really shared my own. In fact, my story is the reason I started She2.0 because I didn't want anyone else to suffer.  From our first period to our last, we need support, education and resources. However, that was not my experience - during my period, pregnancies or menopause. Today I'm sharing a few things I learned along my journey and I'm busting a few myths I'm tired of women hearing.  Tune in!

Have you ever left a doctor's appointment feeling unheard, dismissed, or told that your symptoms were "just stress," "just aging," or "all in your head"? Unfortunately, many women have. In this episode, Jacquie sits down with Kristen Parker to discuss what happened when she knew something was wrong, but struggled to get the answers and care she needed. Kristen's story shines a light on a reality many women face: having symptoms minimized, concerns overlooked, and being forced to advocate for themselves within the healthcare system. Together we discuss: • Why women are often dismissed when reporting symptoms • The impact of medical gaslighting and healthcare bias • How to advocate for yourself when you know something isn't right • The importance of second opinions and asking better questions • What persistence can achieve when your health is on the line • Practical lessons every woman should know before her next medical appointment This is not just Kristen's story. It is a conversation about self advocacy, trusting your instincts, and navigating a healthcare system that does not always listen the first time. If you've ever been told you're overreacting, imagining things, or "just getting older," this episode will feel familiar.

Welcome to the first episode of our Girl With A Pearl series. After years of speaking with doctors, researchers, authors, and experts, we wanted to shift the focus. This series is about the lived experience of midlife. The women navigating it in real time. The lessons they've learned. The wisdom they've earned. Our first guest is bestselling author, speaker, and broadcaster Kathy Buckworth. Known for her honest, relatable approach to family life and aging, Kathy joins us for a conversation about what midlife really looks like when the script you were following starts to change. Together we explore: • The realities of aging in a culture obsessed with youth • How identity shifts in midlife • What happens when your priorities change • Navigating career, family, relationships, and personal growth in a new season of life • The wisdom that comes from experience and why women should stop apologizing for it • What Kathy wishes she had known earlier about getting older This conversation is thoughtful, funny, practical, and refreshingly honest. If you're navigating change, questioning what's next, or discovering that midlife looks very different than you expected, you'll find plenty to relate to here. Because the goal isn't to stay young. It's to get older with purpose, perspective, and confidence.

Brandi Mitchell is the Founder of San Diego Soccer Women in California. Her goal is to connect and expand the global community of age 30 and older recreational female soccer players of every ability level.  At age 47 has traveled the world joining in both standard and walking soccer tournaments for ages 40 and older, as well as organizing international "Soccer Women" trips. I love that her number one goal is to increase opportunities for older women, mainly ages 30 to over 70, to join, continue or return to recreational soccer. Brandi just wants women to kick down the imagined boundaries of age and gender and I'm behind her all the way! Brandi and I have a chat that could have gone on for days! Luckily, I was able to edit it an episode though. You're welcome.  In this episode, we're talking about how physical, mental, economic and emotional health of women as we age relies on positive relationships with our own bodies. And that means pushing back against generations of social messaging that tells us we are never shaped, dressed or acting the way we 'should' in the eyes of others.  She also points out that Women are not "girls" – it's time to be accountable for how referring to adult females as children (by both men and women) prolongs sexist and ageist behavior in society. So, sit back and get comfortable, we have a lot to cover. And by the end of it, I bet you feel inspired to go find a sport! I'm excited to be meeting Brandi and other inspiring female athletes like herself at this year's one of a kind sports festival, The Good Games July 6th and 7th in Guelph, Ontario.

Menopause is finally being talked about more openly, but the conversation is often dominated by symptoms, fear, and loss. What if there is another way to think about this stage of life? In this episode, Jacquie sits down with Charlotte White Ima, founder of Cascade Herbal Living, to explore a different perspective on menopause, midlife, and personal growth. Rather than viewing menopause solely through the lens of symptoms and challenges, Charlotte invites us to consider it as a significant life transition that deserves attention, reflection, and respect. Together we discuss: • Why the language we use around menopause matters • How negative narratives shape women's expectations of midlife • The connection between menopause, identity, and personal transformation • Spiritual awareness and life transitions • Reframing menopause as a period of growth rather than decline • What women can gain, not just lose, during this stage of life This conversation does not ignore the realities of menopause. Instead, it expands the conversation beyond symptoms and asks a bigger question: What becomes possible when women approach midlife with curiosity instead of fear? If you're navigating perimenopause, menopause, or simply rethinking what aging means, this episode offers a thoughtful and refreshing perspective.

Sponsored by Workplace Options As the days get shorter and winter settles in, many people notice changes in their mood, energy, sleep, and motivation. For some, these symptoms may be more than just a dislike of winter. They may be signs of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). In this episode, Jacquie speaks with Dr. Ariel Dalfen, MD, FRCPC, psychiatrist, women's mental health specialist, and co-founder of BRIA, a virtual mental health clinic dedicated to evidence based care. Together they discuss: • What Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) actually is • Common symptoms of winter depression • Why some people are more susceptible than others • The impact SAD can have on work performance, relationships, and daily life • Evidence based treatment options and coping strategies • When it's time to seek professional support Whether you experience seasonal mood changes yourself or support someone who does, this conversation offers practical information and expert guidance to help navigate the challenges of winter mental health. If you've ever wondered why your energy, motivation, or mood changes dramatically during the colder months, this episode is for you.

I'm a personal believer that you dress for your style and your energy - not your 'age'. What does age-related style look like, anyway? Imagine being confined to a certain wardrobe because you fall into a specific age group? How limiting! And where is the self-expression? I click away from articles that talk about how to dress 'for your age. or how to style your hair 'for your age'. Time to throw away those old, ageist attitudes and find our fashion flair. To tell us how to seek out our style is personal wardrobe stylist, Scarlett De Bease. Scarlett shows women how to create fabulous, customized outfits, regardless of size or age, so they can show up to anything on their calendar with absolute confidence! Tune in!

If anyone loves their wine, it's me! I don't drink liquor or beer, but I am a huge sucker for a Californian Cab Sav. I love the flavour and I love the warm feeling I get in my belly after a few sips. It makes me feel calm, peaceful, and relaxed. Even when I don't want a glass, I am easily swayed when others around me are enjoying a glass and I inevitably give in and succumb to a full-bodied, jammy glass of heaven.   I'm also post-menopausal and still suffer from hot flashes and weight gain. Alcohol is not my friend. However, we've all been so conditioned to drinking – just looking at old movies and tv shows. Booze is all around us. It makes it hard to cut it out when we feel so immersed. It has become a social lubricant and a reward at the end of a hard or challenging day. Sarah Kate, the 'mocktologist' behind Some Good Clean Fun dishes up the details on the benefits of going alcohol free and some great substitutes. Spoiler Alert: remember when non-alcoholic wines used to suck? Not anymore! Sarah also brings up some interesting facts that we should all know about cocktails and calories. All of this is just to provide you with a new perspective on our alcohol habits. It's down to personal choice though. Some of us might want to cut back, some may want to cut it out all together and others are fine with things the way they are. I'm good with any and all decisions. I just want to provide you with all possible options. So tune in and let me know what you think!

If you've reached midlife and suddenly feel like the strategies that used to work no longer do, you're not imagining it. Many women notice changes in their weight, energy, metabolism, and overall health during perimenopause and menopause. The challenge is figuring out what actually works and what is simply another wellness trend. One approach that continues to generate both interest and controversy is intermittent fasting. Can intermittent fasting help with menopause weight gain? Is it safe for women in perimenopause and post menopause? Does fasting support metabolic health or can it negatively affect hormones? In this episode, we explore the science, myths, and practical realities of intermittent fasting for women over 50. Together we discuss: • Why weight loss becomes more challenging during menopause • The connection between hormones, metabolism, and body composition • Whether intermittent fasting is effective for women in midlife • Common misconceptions about fasting and women's health • How to get started safely and realistically • Simple strategies to improve energy, health, and long term wellness Most importantly, we explore how women can feel more informed, empowered, and in control of their health during this stage of life. If you've been curious about intermittent fasting or frustrated by changing health and weight loss patterns in menopause, this episode will help you separate fact from fiction.

Can functional mushrooms really help women navigate perimenopause and menopause? As more women look for natural ways to support energy, stress, sleep, focus, and overall wellbeing during midlife, interest in functional mushrooms and adaptogens continues to grow. But what does the evidence actually say? In this episode, Jacquie sits down with Emily Wagner, founder of Micropause and a longtime health and wellness journalist, to explore the role functional mushrooms may play in supporting women through the hormonal changes of perimenopause and menopause. After experiencing her own frustrating symptoms and finding limited non prescription options, Emily began researching functional mushrooms, adaptogenic herbs, and plant based wellness approaches designed to support women in midlife. Together we discuss: • Common symptoms of perimenopause and menopause • What functional mushrooms and adaptogens are • Why these ingredients are gaining attention in women's health • Natural approaches women are exploring alongside traditional treatments • The challenges of finding reliable menopause support • What women should know before adding supplements to their routine This conversation offers a balanced look at one of the fastest growing areas in wellness and explores why so many women are looking beyond conventional solutions to support their health during midlife. If you've been curious about functional mushrooms, adaptogens, or natural menopause support, this episode is worth a listen.

Can simple lifestyle changes make a meaningful difference during menopause? For many women, menopause brings frustrating changes that seem to arrive overnight. Weight gain, poor sleep, low energy, brain fog, mood shifts, and changes in overall wellbeing can leave you wondering what happened and what to do next. In this episode, Jacquie sits down with Dr. Daniela Steyn, physician and author of Thrive Through Menopause, to discuss practical, evidence informed ways women can support their health during perimenopause and menopause. Together, we explore: • Why menopause symptoms can affect far more than hormones • The connection between sleep, stress, weight gain, and overall wellbeing • How nutrition and gut health may influence your menopause experience • Lifestyle strategies that can help improve energy and resilience • Common misconceptions about menopause and aging • How women can feel more informed and confident during this stage of life This conversation takes a whole person approach to menopause, focusing on practical tools that may help women improve quality of life while navigating hormonal change. If you've been wondering whether lifestyle changes can really make a difference during menopause, this episode offers an informed and encouraging place to start.

Eating well. Exercising consistently. Doing all the "right" things. So why won't the weight move? If you've found yourself frustrated by stubborn weight gain, changing body composition, or a metabolism that suddenly seems to have a mind of its own, you're not imagining it. For many women, midlife weight loss is about far more than calories in and calories out. In this episode, I sit down with Monika Tupholme, performance coach, nutrition specialist, and expert in women's metabolic health, to unpack what may really be standing between you and your health goals. Together, we explore: • Why losing weight after 40 can feel dramatically different • The impact of hormones, stress, and metabolism on body composition • Why doing more exercise isn't always the answer • The role mindset and self-talk play in long term health changes • How emotional patterns and limiting beliefs can affect physical results • Practical strategies for women navigating midlife weight gain Monika's approach goes beyond quick fixes and diet culture. Instead, she focuses on helping women understand the physical and mental factors that influence lasting change. If you've ever wondered why the scale won't budge despite your best efforts, this conversation may help you look at the problem differently.  

The other week I scrolled through one of my favourite newsletters and came across an image of Kate and Meghan. I am so over the royal family and their war.  And just as I was about to carry on, the headline hit me. "The ugly truth about girl power'. Wow.  I always thought girl power was a good thing. So how does this relate to aging and menopause? As I read quite a few articles online about menopause and how the author/journalist felt about the experience, I expected to read words of support and encouragement in the comments section. You know – girl 'power'. Not so. In fact, not at all!   I reached out to Monica, the author of the newsletter that caught my eye, and I wanted her take. Why do women do this to each other? Is it our fault or have we been positioned like this by society and the patriarch? This is a time when we should be supporting each other so what gives? MONICA CORCORAN HAREL is a journalist, screenwriter, and the founder of PRETTY RIPE,  If you haven't heard of it, you'll want to subscribe right away like I did. Pretty Ripe is a multi-media platform for women (proudly) over 40. Monica is a self-described I "midlife midwife," easing women over 40 into middle age. As a journalist who's written for The New York Times for over 20 years, Monice brings research and reporting to all her content.   She has been profiled in WWD and quoted in Time and InStyle. She also writes about beauty, fashion, midlife and the culture of modern women for The New York Times, New York Magazine, and The Hollywood Reporter. She has moderated programming for South by Southwest (SXSW), The Los Angeles County Museum of Art and Soho House—and created award-winning content for companies like Estee Lauder and Morgan Stanley.   Monica's first feature film about two middle-aged women who swap bodies with Gen Z influencers is set up at Netflix with Eva Longoria attached to star and direct. She is currently adapting her magazine essay "My Mom Has No Friends" into a sitcom for 20th Television and Mandy Moore. She lives in L.A. with her family and really loves being an "older woman."

Isn't it amazing how a little loss of estrogen can cause a ton of fuss in our bodies? If you're like me, you've probably noticed your hair is thinning, becoming a bit coarser and/or frizzy all the damn time? Ena Bentzen, CEO of Bioscal Canada joins me to talk about how our hair changes as we age and the science behind Bioscal which keep the scalp clean, clean out the clogs and prevent buildup. And the best part is, it stimulates hair growth. I can say that because I've tried it and I see little baby hairs growing back for the first time in years!

Today I'm learning more about fitness over 40 AND 50 during my chat with Samantha Montpetit Huynh. Sam has been a certified personal trainer for over 2 decades and is the founder of Sam Core Trainer where she coaches women 40+ with the most comprehensive online health management program for women in menopause and midlife. She is also a serial entrepreneur, media expert, speaker, teacher, mentor, course creator and author. You can catch her fitness segments on The Marilyn Denis Show and most recently on CBC's The National. For those of you who might be new to the She2.0 podcast, I'm Jacquie Court and I've been spending the past couple of years diving into the world of perimenopause and beyond to learn more about what's happening, where to turn to with questions and to explore treatments, solutions, and information to help guide us through.  I guess you can say I'm your tour guide on this journey. While it's my mission to present you with all the options and resources available to you - what you choose is up to you. There is no one-size-fits-all. She2.0 is treatment agnostic. It's not my job to judge or critique – I'm here to learn and to decipher this next stage so that I can share this knowledge with you to help you take charge of your menopause. Why? Because it doesn't have to suck.   And now back to Sam….

Muffin top? Menopause Apron? There are so many words for the weight we accumulate around the middle. Many of us are struggling with it. How do we get it under control? I'm so excited to have Amanda Thebe join me on the first episode of the She2.0 Podcast in 2023! If you haven't heard of Amanda, you'll def want to hear what she has to say about fitness after 40 and how to battle the meno-bulge. Amanda Thebe is a Fitness and Women's Health Expert with nearly thirty years of experience in the fitness industry, she is the author of the Amazon best-selling book, Menopocalypse: How I Learned to Thrive During Menopause and How You Can Too!.   

If you've ever wondered what happened to your sex drive during perimenopause or menopause, you're not alone. Changes in desire are one of the most common yet least discussed experiences women face in midlife. Too often, we assume something is wrong with us, our relationship, or our body. But what if the problem isn't your libido? What if it's the way we've been taught to think about sex in the first place? In this episode, I sit down with Nicole Schroeder, Registered Social Worker, sex therapist, and relationship specialist, to explore the physical, emotional, and psychological factors that influence sexual desire during midlife. Together, we discuss: • Why libido often changes during perimenopause and menopause • The connection between hormones, stress, relationships, and desire • Common myths about female sexuality in midlife • How to navigate intimacy when your body feels different • Why desire doesn't always work the way we've been told it should • Practical ways to reconnect with yourself and your partner Nicole brings both clinical expertise and real-world insight to a conversation that many women need but rarely have. If you've been wondering whether you'll ever feel like yourself again, or if intimacy simply looks different now, this episode offers a refreshing and reassuring perspective on sex, desire, and relationships after 40.

I have recently been sharing the stage with author and pharmacist Irene Hogan. We've spoken together at a few shows on the topic of Sexy after 40.  Once we're done, I simply move aside and let Irene answer the questions that our conversation raises for so many women (and some men, too!) Irene has so much insightful information to share about sex and things down 'there'. She is proof that we don't know what we don't know – and what we don't know can be dangerous. She even supports my belief that if you don't use it, you could lose it! In this episode, Irene and I chat about our MIA libidos, what's causing it, how can we get it back and interestingly, how not all our sexual health issues can be pinned on menopause. Spoiler alert: communication is also a culprit. So, tune in and learn from the author of "Hot Chix Hot Sex". Guaranteed it will be your new bedside table reading!

For the past couple of years, we've talked all about perimenopause as the runway to menopause. This is the opportunity for us to acclimatize our bodies and brains for what comes next. But imagine not having that lead time? Imagine being told you're going to skip it all together and head straight into menopause by the time you wake up tomorrow or the next day? Most women that go into post-surgical or post-treatment menopause report feeling completely overwhelmed and completely under educated or informed. This can lead to a lot of stress adding to their existing health conditions. Kim MacDonald, Weather Network Anchor Breast Cancer Canada spokesperson, wife, mom of two daughters, dog mom, and a survivor shares her experience on how chemotherapy threw her into sudden menopause which had a huge impact on her life. Few people even know that menopause is a side effect of breast cancer chemotherapy.   Tune in!

What the heck is going on 'down there'? From dryness to pain, our pelvic health is an issue that hasn't previously been adequately addressed. Now it seems like it's all we talk about. And it's a good thing we are because knowledge is power. That's why I was so excited to meet Tracy MacNeal – a woman on a mission!  The former chemical engineer and women's health pioneer is leading a pelvic health revolution to empower and improve the health of millions of women across the United States.  Tracy is the President and CEO of med tech innovators Materna Medical, and part of her campaigning includes championing awareness of the much misunderstood and greatly undiagnosed condition, vaginismus. Tune in and find out what it is and how you can treat it!

Did you know that 1 in 10 women leave their jobs because of menopause? Just when we're at the pinnacle of our careers, the hotflashes and brain fog come in to sabotage our success. We look at our younger, fertile colleagues who experience similar symptoms but because of their fertile status, their symptoms are 'adorable'. They get 'baby brain' and we get fired. Doesn't seem fair.  Not only are companies treating women with discrimination when they don't support them during menopause, they are losing quality talent. Women in their menopausal years bring a wealth of expertise and experience to the table. How can we just let them go or leave on their own accord because of their symptoms? Join Sharon MacArthur - AKA Miss Menopause. Sharon works with companies to help them support women through menopause and considering 100% of women will go through it - we all owe Sharon a round of applause! Here what she has to say about menopause in the workplace. 

Menopause can feel isolating for many women. Symptoms are often misunderstood, conversations are avoided, and too many women struggle to find the information and support they need. But menopause is not experienced equally. Research and lived experience suggest that Black women often face unique challenges when navigating menopause, including disparities in healthcare, cultural stigma, delayed diagnosis, and a lack of representation in mainstream menopause conversations. In this episode, I sit down with Omisade Burney-Scott, founder of Black Girl's Guide to Surviving Menopause, to discuss the realities of menopause through a broader and more inclusive lens. Together, we explore: • Why menopause conversations need to include more diverse voices • The unique experiences many Black women face during midlife • The impact of healthcare inequities on menopause care • The importance of advocacy, community, and culturally relevant support • How women can become better informed and empowered throughout the menopause transition • What all women can learn from listening to different menopause experiences Omisade shares her personal journey as well as the work she is doing to create visibility, education, and community for Black women navigating menopause. This is an important conversation about health equity, representation, and ensuring that every woman has access to the information and support she deserves.

Lou Featherstone is embracing menopause and taking it on the road in her 'Self Love Revolution Tour'. It's a tour like no other! As she roams across the U.S, Lou is helping women to rediscover their confidence and fall back in love with their minds and their bodies. She's teaching us to step out of our comfort zone to join the Zero F*cks Club. Join Lu in Luland! Tune in! Tune in and don't forget to follow Lou's tour on Instagram. You'll wish you were there!

It's HOT! We are working and sweating and looking forward to a few weeks off to celebrate all the things we don't love about winter in Canada! There's also a BIG change coming for She2.0. We hope you'll stay tuned in to find out. We are so fortunate to have built this business together but sometimes things have to change. We often talk about the need to look after ourselves first. And Ramona is walking the walk on this. She has been so instrumental in the creation of this platform and community and this is not 'good bye'. It is 'see you soon'.  Tune in!

When we talk about menopause, the conversation usually focuses on hot flashes, sleep problems, and weight gain. But what about mental health? Many women experience anxiety, overwhelm, irritability, low mood, brain fog, loss of confidence, and emotional changes during perimenopause and menopause. Yet these symptoms are often misunderstood, dismissed, or attributed to stress alone. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Ariel Dalfen, psychiatrist, women's mental health expert, and co-founder of BRIA, a virtual clinic dedicated to supporting women through major life transitions, including perimenopause and menopause. Together, we discuss: • How hormonal changes can affect mental health during midlife • The connection between perimenopause, anxiety, depression, and mood changes • Why many women feel unseen or unsupported during this transition • When therapy may be helpful during menopause • How to recognize when emotional symptoms need professional support • The importance of integrated care for women's mental and physical health Dr. Dalfen shares practical insights for women who are struggling emotionally and wondering whether what they're experiencing is "just stress" or something more. If you've ever felt unlike yourself during perimenopause or menopause, this conversation offers information, reassurance, and evidence based guidance.

The one common thing we hear from our amazing audience is that they don't know where to turn for information on menopause. There are so many gaps in our healthcare that we feel overlooked and dismissed.  Well times are changing thanks to the newly launched  Menopause Foundation of Canada! Trish Barbato and Janet Ko, co-founders of the non-profit advocacy organization have had their own struggles with menopause and have decided to make menopause their cause in order to help women everywhere.  Tune in to hear more about the Foundation and why it's going to be a huge help to all women!

With menopause estimated to be a multi-billion dollar industry, you can be sure that brands are going to come knocking. They want into our pockets and our pants with devices and products to cure every hotflash and night sweat.  On the one hand, we're really happy to see so many more options finally emerging to help us through menopause, but on the other hand, can we really trust what we're being sold?  Dr. Nathan Guerette, CEO of the Intimate Wellness Institute of Virginia and CMO of the Intimate Wellness Institute in Virginia joins us to talk about the red flags and warnings we need to look out for in the new menopause market.  Tune in!

With the stress of COVID, virtual schooling, WFH and everything else the past two years has thrown at us, it's easy to mistake pandemic related symptoms with a much more serious threat – cardiovascular disease.  Once we hit our 40's, our bodies produce less estrogen which means less protection for our hearts. It's a silent disease because high cholesterol doesn't give any symptoms. We know this because Jacquie found out the hard way by getting bloodwork for an HRT assessment. That's when we learned that our cholesterol rises with the onset of perimenopause. As we've said before, what you don't know can hurt you. It's important for us to understand our hearth health, the signs, and symptoms to beware of and how to maintain a stronger heart.   In this episode, Dr. Beth Abramson MD is Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of Toronto joins us to talk about women and heart health. Dr. Abramson is the Paul Albrechtsen Professor in Cardiac Prevention and Women's Health in the Division of Cardiology at St. Michael's Hospital, University of Toronto.   Tune in!

We're telling our truth in this episode and it wasn't easy! We're joined by Jowita Bydlawska, author of "Drunk Mom" to talk about women and alcohol. How do current 'mom memes' encourage us to drink and do we realize the damage we're doing to our bodies and brains?  The added downside of booze is that it adds nothing but grief to our menopause symptoms - Sleep, weight and health!  So what's the answer? Maybe a healthier relationship with our wine?  Talking openly? Tune in!

If you've ever crossed your legs before a sneeze, planned your day around bathroom access, or assumed bladder leaks are simply part of getting older, this episode is for you. Many women experience pelvic floor symptoms during midlife, including urinary leakage, pelvic pressure, discomfort, and changes in vaginal health. The problem is that these issues are often considered "normal" when they may actually be signs that your pelvic floor needs attention. In this episode, I sit down with Kim Vopni, internationally recognized pelvic health expert, author, and founder of KegelMoji, to talk about one of the most overlooked aspects of women's health. Together, we discuss: • Why bladder leaks may be common but are not necessarily normal • What your pelvic floor actually does and why it matters • How pregnancy, childbirth, aging, and menopause affect pelvic health • Signs your pelvic floor may need support • Common misconceptions about Kegels and pelvic floor exercises • Practical ways women can improve pelvic floor function and confidence Kim shares practical, evidence informed guidance that every woman should hear, whether you're experiencing symptoms or simply want to protect your long term pelvic health. Because understanding what's happening "down there" isn't embarrassing. It's an important part of taking care of your health.

When you're having a hot flash, memory loss or sleepless nights does it ever feel like no one is listening? You're not alone. And partly because in the past, no one WAS listening. That might be because treating hormones can feel dangerous to doctors. Many don't have a lot of training in this area.  Lack of menopausal care is a huge disservice to women but let's shed a little light as to why that might be. We're talking to Dr. Susan Goldstein, MD CCFP FCFP NCMP is a Toronto based family physician and GP Psychotherapist with a special interest in women's health and menopause, Certified menopause practitioner and elected board member of the Canadian Menopause Society.  Not only does she answer our questions and address our frustrations with the gaps in our healthcare, but Dr. Goldstein also has the inside track on studies and changes that are on the horizon and will help all of us to feel more acknowledged and taken care of. She also shares 6 questions every woman should ask her doctor.Tune in!