The 40+ Life

Katy Pullinger

A place for conversations with women over 40. From careers, health, relationships and lifestyle to personal style this is The 40+ Life! 

Episodes

  1. 5 days ago

    Grief, Loss & Finding Your Afterglow: Learning to Live Again with Rachel Hart Phillips - Holistic Grief Coach -

    Send us Fan Mail Grief, Loss & Finding Your Afterglow: Learning to Live Again with Rachel Hart Phillips Grief is something we will all experience at some point in our lives, but how do we navigate it, live alongside it and, eventually, find happiness again? In this deeply moving and thought-provoking episode of The 40+ Life Podcast, I'm joined by Rachel Hart Phillips, trauma-informed holistic grief coach and founder of The Afterglow Space, who shares her extraordinary story of loss, resilience and finding a new purpose. Rachel lost her father at just 20, her mother at 34 and, while five months pregnant with her son, her first husband to suicide. Rather than allowing these experiences to define her, Rachel found a calling in helping others navigate grief and went on to train as a holistic grief coach. We talk about why grief isn't just about losing someone we love, but can also be about losing a relationship, a version of ourselves, the future we imagined or the person we once were. We explore how grief and trauma can show up in our bodies, why we can't simply think our way through it, and the importance of allowing ourselves to feel rather than burying our emotions. Rachel shares practical advice for those navigating loss, from grounding techniques and breathwork to the importance of small daily wins, finding support and being patient with ourselves. We also discuss what to say (and what not to say) to someone who is grieving, why people often disappear after the funeral, and how to support children through bereavement. And, in a lovely reminder that life can still hold joy after unimaginable sadness, we chat about second chances, finding love again, the emotional power of clothes and getting dressed, and why it's perfectly okay to find happiness while still missing someone. This is an honest, compassionate conversation about one of life's most difficult experiences, but ultimately one filled with hope. Because grief doesn't have to define us, and although we never forget the people we've lost, we can go on to live a happy, full and beautiful life. Rachel's recommendation: Start your day with a few small wins – ten minutes of yoga and a little Duolingo. Sometimes the smallest steps can make the biggest difference. Find Rachel: Website & Instagram: @theafterglowspace Email: rachel@theafterglowspace.com If you enjoy this episode, please follow, subscribe and leave us a review. It really does help more women discover The 40+ Life Podcast. If you enjoyed the episode please do subscribe and leave The 40+ Life a review.  Follow The 40+ Life on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/the40pluslifepodcast/ Find out more about TV Presenter Katy Pullinger https://www.instagram.com/katypullinger/ https://www.katypullinger.com/

  2. 13 Oct

    Rezzy Ghadjar - Juggling a career while raising a toddler at 40+

    Send us Fan Mail Welcome back to The 40+ Life — taking on midlife with style. Today, I’m chatting to someone I know a little better than some of my previous guests. She’s my broadcasting friend, colleague and all-round cool chick, Rezzy Ghadjar. You might know her from Heart Radio, Channel 5 or, of course, QVC — but today we’re talking about a very different side of her life. Rezi became a mum at 39, and we’re getting really honest about what it means to start a family a little later in life, when you’ve spent years building your career, enjoying your freedom and finally feeling like you’re living your best life. Rezi opens up about the unexpected fertility shock that turned her world upside down, the anxiety she experienced when the prospect of motherhood suddenly became very real, and how therapy helped her navigate those feelings. We also talk about being a 40-something mum in a world that can still make women feel like they’re somehow doing things in the wrong order. From the realities of juggling a busy broadcasting career with a toddler, to the physical changes of pregnancy and post-baby life, losing a little bit of your identity along the way, and finding your confidence and personal style again — we cover so much. And, of course, there’s plenty of laughter, some very relatable conversations about tiredness, trainers replacing heels, and why an extra three hours in the day would be an absolute dream! So, whether you had your children in your twenties, your forties, or you’re still figuring out what the right path looks like for you, this is an honest conversation about motherhood, identity, career and giving yourself permission to do life in your own time. Let’s get into it. Rezzy Ghadjar, welcome to The 40+ Life! You can find out more about Rezzy  https://www.instagram.com/rezzyghadjar/?hl=en If you enjoyed the episode please do subscribe and leave The 40+ Life a review.  Follow The 40+ Life on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/the40pluslifepodcast/ Find out more about TV Presenter Katy Pullinger https://www.instagram.com/katypullinger/ https://www.katypullinger.com/

  3. 29 Jul

    Natasha Bulstrode - The Confidence Revolution: Why Midlife Is Your Time to Shine

    Send us Fan Mail In this inspiring episode of The 40+ Life Podcast, I'm joined by makeup artist, accidental influencer and founder of Chapter Five, Natasha "Tash" Bulstrode, for a conversation that goes far beyond beauty. With over 30 years in the fashion and beauty industry, Tash shares her incredible journey from the London College of Fashion to working alongside some of the biggest names in makeup, including Charlotte Tilbury. But this isn't just an episode about makeup—it's about confidence, identity and learning to take up space in midlife. We dive into why so many women feel pressured to shrink themselves, the power of authenticity in a world obsessed with perfection, and why embracing your unique features is the ultimate act of self-confidence. Tash opens up about grief, divorce, rebuilding herself in her 50s, and how something as simple as putting on lipstick can become an act of hope and self-care during life's hardest seasons. We also chat about: Why beauty should be about self-expression, not perfection.The changing relationship women have with makeup after 40.The pressure to look younger—and why authenticity is becoming the new luxury.Practical skincare and makeup tips for women in midlife.Face yoga, Botox and finding what feels right for you without judgement.How colour, style and fashion can reconnect us with ourselves.Why supporting other women is one of the most powerful things we can do.As always, we finish with our fun This or That quick-fire round, plus Tash shares a thought-provoking book recommendation that's guaranteed to spark conversation. Whether you wear a full face every day or barely touch a makeup bag, this episode is a beautiful reminder that confidence isn't something you paint on—it's something you reclaim. Because taking on midlife with style starts with embracing exactly who you are. To find out more about Natasha Bulstrode -  https://www.instagram.com/natashachapterfive/ https://www.chapterfive.com/ If you enjoyed the episode please do subscribe and leave The 40+ Life a review.  Follow The 40+ Life on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/the40pluslifepodcast/ Find out more about TV Presenter Katy Pullinger https://www.instagram.com/katypullinger/ https://www.katypullinger.com/

  4. 14 Jul

    Dani Diosi - Menopause Educator, You're not broken, you're evolving!

    Send us Fan Mail Perimenopause and menopause can feel overwhelming, confusing, and, for many women, incredibly isolating. In this episode of The 40+ Life Podcast, Katy is joined by menopause educator, coach, hypnotherapist and NLP practitioner Dani Diosi to unpack what's really happening during this stage of life—and why it doesn't have to be something we simply endure. Dani shares her own deeply personal experience of being blindsided by perimenopause, from debilitating brain fog and anxiety to loss of confidence, sleepless nights and questioning her identity. Together, we explore why so many women aren't prepared for this transition, why symptoms are so often dismissed, and how understanding the changes happening in our brains and bodies can completely transform the way we experience midlife. We also discuss:  Why brain fog isn't a sign you're "losing it"  The surprising science behind the menopausal brain  HRT, self-advocacy and getting the right medical support  Why boundaries, rest and nervous system regulation matter more than ever  The connection between postnatal depression and hormonal sensitivity  The importance of listening to your body and trusting your instincts  How menopause can become a powerful opportunity for growth, confidence and reinvention This conversation is honest, reassuring and full of hope. Whether you're just starting to notice changes, you're in the thick of perimenopause, or you're supporting someone who is, Dani offers practical advice alongside a refreshing perspective: you're not broken—you’re evolving. If you've ever wondered whether what you're experiencing is "normal," this episode will remind you that you're far from alone, and that thriving through menopause is absolutely possible. Find out more about Dani Diosi -  https://danidiosi.com/ https://www.instagram.com/danidiosicoaching/ If you enjoyed the episode please do subscribe and leave The 40+ Life a review.  Follow The 40+ Life on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/the40pluslifepodcast/ Find out more about TV Presenter Katy Pullinger https://www.instagram.com/katypullinger/ https://www.katypullinger.com/

  5. 7 Jul

    Kate Cadbury on Pilates and why it's so important to the 40+ woman

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The 40+ Life Podcast, Katy is joined by chartered physiotherapist, APPI-certified Pilates instructor, and Team GB duathlete Kate Cadbury to uncover why Pilates is one of the best investments you can make in your health after 40. Together, they explore why core strength, mobility and balance become increasingly important during midlife, particularly as hormonal changes affect our muscles, joints and bone density. Kate explains why common issues such as back pain, pelvic floor weakness and stiffness aren't simply something women have to accept—and how Pilates can play a key role in preventing and improving them. They also discuss the growing trend of heavy weightlifting for women, how to build strength safely, why consistency matters more than intensity, and why it's never too late to start exercising, whether you're 40, 60 or even 80. Plus, Kate shares practical ways to weave movement into everyday life, her favourite supplements for active women, how she went from hating sport as a child to representing Great Britain as a duathlete, and why feeling strong and confident is the real definition of ageing with style. Whether you're curious about Pilates, looking to future-proof your body, or simply searching for motivation to move more, this episode is packed with expert advice and realistic, encouraging tips to help you feel your best at every stage of midlife. Find out more about Kate Cadbury https://www.cadburypilates.com/ If you enjoyed the episode please do subscribe and leave The 40+ Life a review.  Follow The 40+ Life on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/the40pluslifepodcast/ Find out more about TV Presenter Katy Pullinger https://www.instagram.com/katypullinger/ https://www.katypullinger.com/

  6. 2 Jun

    Content Creator - Alison Perry on rediscovering her style

    Send us Fan Mail In this week's episode of The 40+ Life, Katy chats with blogger, podcaster, author, and content creator Alison Perry. Many listeners will know Alison from Not Another Mummy Blog and the chart-topping Not Another Mummy Podcast, where she's spent over a decade sharing the realities of motherhood, identity, and modern life. But in recent years, Alison has become a powerful voice for women rediscovering their confidence, style, and sense of self in midlife. Together, Katy and Alison reflect on the early days of mummy blogging, building online communities before Instagram took over, and how sharing honest stories helped thousands of women feel less alone during motherhood. Alison also opens up about her fertility journey, the heartbreak of secondary infertility, undergoing IVF, and the incredible surprise that led to the birth of her twin daughters. The conversation explores the challenges many women face in their late 30s and 40s—balancing motherhood, self-worth, and identity—and how Alison found her way back to herself through fashion, colour, creativity, and a commitment to putting her own happiness back on the agenda. They also discuss social media pressures, confidence, comparison, style ruts, why "fake it till you make it" sometimes works, and the powerful moment when you stop worrying about what other people think and start embracing who you are. Find out more about Alison - On Instagram https://www.instagram.com/iamalisonperry/ Not Another Mummy Blog https://notanothermummyblog.com/ If you enjoyed the episode please do subscribe and leave The 40+ Life a review.  Follow The 40+ Life on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/the40pluslifepodcast/ Find out more about TV Presenter Katy Pullinger https://www.instagram.com/katypullinger/ https://www.katypullinger.com/

  7. 19 May

    Donna Jackson AKA The Curious Mummy on moving through grief

    Send us Fan Mail This week on The 40 Plus Life, I’m joined by Donna Jackson, better known to many as The Curious Mummy — content creator, recipe sharer, mum of two, and someone who has built an online community through warmth, honesty and connection. Donna opens up about the unimaginable loss of her husband Gareth in 2022 and the journey that followed. We talk candidly about grief in all its forms, rebuilding life after loss, parenting through heartbreak, and the unexpected strength and confidence that can emerge from life's hardest moments. We also chat about navigating midlife, boundaries, perimenopause, finding purpose, raising children, and why saying "no" can be one of the most empowering things we learn in our forties. Donna also shares the inspiration behind The After Movement — a new initiative creating connection and community for people navigating grief and loss. And because this is The 40 Plus Life, there’s also room for the important topics: bedtime chats, beach holidays, style in your forties… and the bronzer that got Donna through winter. This is a conversation about loss, resilience, growth, and learning that life after heartbreak can still be full of joy, purpose and beautiful new memories. You can follow Donna https://www.instagram.com/thecuriousmummy/ and The After Movement https://www.instagram.com/theaftermovement/ If you enjoyed the episode please do subscribe and leave The 40+ Life a review.  Follow The 40+ Life on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/the40pluslifepodcast/ Find out more about TV Presenter Katy Pullinger https://www.instagram.com/katypullinger/ https://www.katypullinger.com/

  8. 12 May

    Ali Bastian - Surviving, Healing & Rewriting Her Life in West Cork

    Send us Fan Mail What happens when you finally create the life you’ve been craving… only for everything to change overnight? In this deeply moving and honest conversation, actress Ali Bastian joins me to share the story behind her bold move from London to the wild beauty of West Cork — a decision rooted in a desire for a slower, more connected way of living. But just weeks into this new chapter, Ali was diagnosed with breast cancer, turning her world upside down in an instant. With incredible openness, Ali takes us through the reality of that moment — from finding a lump while breastfeeding, to navigating treatment in a new country, to the emotional aftermath that doesn’t simply end when treatment does. We talk about the shock, the fear, the strength it takes to keep going, and the ongoing process of healing — physically, mentally, and emotionally. But this episode is also about so much more than illness. It’s about identity, community, motherhood, and rebuilding yourself from the ground up. Ali shares how the rugged landscape of West Cork, the power of female connection, and the simplest moments — sea swims, fresh air, slowing down — became a lifeline during her hardest days. We also dive into: – Growing up in the spotlight and navigating body image in the 2000s media era – The reality of menopause brought on by cancer treatment – Learning to accept and reconnect with your body after a mastectomy – Redefining style, confidence, and what it means to feel like you again – Why community and asking for help can be everything This is a raw, powerful and ultimately uplifting conversation about resilience, perspective, and finding light in the darkest moments. If you’ve ever faced a life curveball, felt the need to start again, or wondered how to rebuild after everything changes — this episode will stay with you. 🎧 Hit follow and join us for more real conversations on The 40 Plus Life Podcast. Follow Ali on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/alibastianinsta/ Ali's prosthetic breast insert can be found here - https://wewearboost.com Ali's website recommendation https://percihealth.com/ If you enjoyed the episode please do subscribe and leave The 40+ Life a review.  Follow The 40+ Life on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/the40pluslifepodcast/ Find out more about TV Presenter Katy Pullinger https://www.instagram.com/katypullinger/ https://www.katypullinger.com/

  9. 5 May

    Francesca Moore - Nutrition for the 40+ woman

    Send us Fan Mail Welcome to The 40 Plus Life — the podcast for women navigating midlife with energy, clarity, and confidence. In this episode, I’m joined by Francesca Moore, a highly experienced, BANT-registered nutritional therapist who specialises in supporting women through their 40s, 50s, and beyond. With a science-led yet refreshingly practical approach, Francesca cuts through the noise to focus on what truly works in real life. We dive into the realities of midlife health — from hormonal shifts and gut health to nutrition, stress, and bone strength — and why the habits that once “worked” in our 20s and 30s suddenly stop delivering. Francesca shares her own personal journey, including the wake-up calls that led her to prioritise her health, and offers simple, powerful ways to start doing the same. In this conversation, we explore: What’s really happening in your body during perimenopause and menopauseWhy gut health is the foundation of everything (including hormone balance)How to support energy, mood, and metabolism through nutritionThe truth about protein, fibre, and blood sugar balanceSmall, realistic changes that can make a big impact — even in a busy lifeWhy prioritising yourself isn’t selfish… it’s essentialThis episode is packed with honest insights, expert guidance, and practical takeaways to help you feel stronger, more energised, and back in control of your body. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by conflicting advice or struggled to put your own health first, this conversation will leave you feeling informed, empowered, and ready to take action. ✨ Because midlife isn’t the beginning of the end — it’s your opportunity to feel your best yet. Find out more about Francesca Moore -  https://www.instagram.com/nutritionfrancesca/ https://www.nutritionfrancesca.co.uk/ If you enjoyed the episode please do subscribe and leave The 40+ Life a review.  Follow The 40+ Life on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/the40pluslifepodcast/ Find out more about TV Presenter Katy Pullinger https://www.instagram.com/katypullinger/ https://www.katypullinger.com/

  10. 27 Apr

    Lavina Mehta MBE - Simple Habits That Transform Midlife Health

    Send us Fan Mail This week on The 40 Plus Life, we’re joined by the incredibly inspiring Lavina Mehta MBE—fitness expert, author, and the powerhouse behind the “exercise snacking” movement that’s changing how women approach health in midlife. If you’ve ever felt like you don’t have time to work out, this episode is about to completely reframe everything. Lavina shares her journey from a self-confessed non-exerciser to one of the UK’s leading voices in midlife wellbeing—proving it’s never too late to start. We dive into the simple, science-backed habits that can transform your energy, mood, and long-term health… without needing hours in the gym. From squats while the kettle boils to breathwork that calms your nervous system in under a minute, this conversation is packed with practical tools you can start using immediately. We talk about: The truth about “exercise snacking” and why short bursts can be just as effective as long workoutsStrength training in midlife—and why it’s essential for your body and brainThe surprising power of balance (and what it says about your long-term health)Managing stress, anxiety, and sleep with simple breathwork techniquesThe impact of nature, movement, and social connection on overall wellbeingRediscovering joy, confidence, and even new passions in your 40s and beyondLavina’s energy is infectious, her advice is refreshingly realistic, and her message is clear: you don’t need more time—you just need a new approach. ✨ Expect practical tips, powerful mindset shifts, and a whole lot of motivation to start feeling good—right now. 🎧 This episode might just change the way you think about fitness forever. Find out more about Lavina Mehta - https://www.instagram.com/feelgoodwithlavina/ https://feelgoodwithlavina.com/ If you enjoyed the episode please do subscribe and leave The 40+ Life a review.  Follow The 40+ Life on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/the40pluslifepodcast/ Find out more about TV Presenter Katy Pullinger https://www.instagram.com/katypullinger/ https://www.katypullinger.com/

  11. 27 Apr

    Jayne Sharp - Menopause, Mayhem and making it Funny

    Send us Fan Mail Welcome to the very first episode of The 40 Plus Life—and what a way to kick things off. Joining us is the brilliantly funny and refreshingly honest Jayne Sharpe, the Instagram and TikTok comedian who’s become the unfiltered voice of midlife women everywhere. If you’ve ever laughed (or winced) at the realities of perimenopause, chances are you’ve already met her iconic characters—turning hot flushes, brain fog, and “arm knees” into comedy gold. But this conversation goes far beyond the laughs. Jayne opens up about navigating her 40s through big life changes—marriage, motherhood, identity—and the unexpected freedom that comes with finally not caring what everyone else thinks. We dive into the chaos and comedy of perimenopause, the symptoms no one warned us about (hello, forgetting the word for window), and how humour is helping women feel seen, understood, and far less alone. We also get real about: The moment her content went viral—and the overwhelming response from women (and men) worldwideThe surprising mental load of brain fog and why it can knock your confidenceHRT, sleep struggles, and the small changes that can completely transform how you feelSobriety, social media burnout, and learning to switch off in a world that never stops scrollingWhy midlife might actually be your most confident, authentic era yetHonest, hilarious, and deeply relatable, this episode is a reminder that midlife isn’t something to endure—it’s something to redefine. 🎧 Expect laughter, truth bombs, and plenty of “that is SO me” moments. Find Jayne Sharpe on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jaynesharp/ If you enjoyed the episode please do subscribe and leave The 40+ Life a review.  Follow The 40+ Life on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/the40pluslifepodcast/ Find out more about TV Presenter Katy Pullinger https://www.instagram.com/katypullinger/ https://www.katypullinger.com/

  12. 27 Apr

    The 40+ Life Podcast - Intro

    Send us Fan Mail Welcome to The 40 Plus Life Podcast, where nothing is off-limits and everything is real. Hosted by Katy Pullinger, this is your space for honest, unfiltered conversations about the beautifully complicated years that come after 40 — the ones that shape, challenge, and ultimately redefine us. From unexpected diagnoses and heartbreak to rediscovery, confidence, and bold new beginnings, these are the stories we don’t hear enough about — but need to. You’ll hear from inspiring women, expert voices, and those who’ve lived through life’s biggest curveballs and come out stronger, wiser, and unapologetically themselves. We’re talking hormones, health, relationships, grief, reinvention, style, and everything in between — with plenty of laughter and real talk along the way. Because midlife isn’t about fading out… it’s about stepping into something even more wonderful. Whether you’re feeling stuck, starting over, or simply wondering what’s next — you belong here. Hit subscribe and join the conversation. Welcome to The 40+ Life  https://www.instagram.com/the40pluslifepodcast/ If you enjoyed the episode please do subscribe and leave The 40+ Life a review.  Follow The 40+ Life on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/the40pluslifepodcast/ Find out more about TV Presenter Katy Pullinger https://www.instagram.com/katypullinger/ https://www.katypullinger.com/

  • 12 Episodes

5
out of 5
13 Ratings

About

A place for conversations with women over 40. From careers, health, relationships and lifestyle to personal style this is The 40+ Life! 

Information

  • Creator
    Katy Pullinger
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The 40+ Life
  • Show Website
    The 40+ Life

You Might Also Like