Women's Health Unwrapped

Nicola Farndell
Women's Health Unwrapped

Unwrapping what healthy really means in midlife, so you feel energised, confident and like you again. Women’s Health Unwrapped is a weekly podcast hosted by Nicola Farndell, exploring the emotional and physical shifts women experience in midlife. Blending expert insight with real stories, the show gently challenges outdated views on health, ageing and self-worth, offering a fresh, grounded perspective on what it means to thrive through perimenopause and beyond. For women who are ready to reconnect with their energy, identity and joy, without the overwhelm.

  1. 3 DAYS AGO

    #143: The real root of autoimmune conditions in women

    Have you ever wondered why you’re doing everything “right” but still feel unwell? I'm joined by Justin Janoska for a conversation that I know will expand how you think about your health. We explore the complexities of autoimmune conditions, particularly Hashimoto’s, and why these illnesses are increasingly impacting women in midlife. But more importantly, we unpack what’s often missed in conversations about health: how your emotional patterns, the stress you carry, and your lifelong habits of doing more can quietly shape your wellbeing. Justin shares how chronic dieting can contribute to chronic stress and autoimmunity, and why it’s time to rethink the “fix it with food” mindset so many women feel stuck in. We talk about the importance of silence, solitude, and stillness - three things many of us resist, but that can change everything. We’re unwrapping in our conversation: Why autoimmune conditions are on the rise, particularly for women in midlife. How chronic dieting and restriction can add to the stress driving illness. The role of hormonal changes in menopause and why they can be the “final straw”. Why your emotional patterns and history matter in your health journey. How perfectionism and people-pleasing drain your energy and affect your wellbeing. The importance of silence, solitude, and stillness for true healing. The mind-body connection and how it impacts your health more than you think. Why it’s not about doing more, but often about learning to do less. About Justin Janoska: Justin is on a mission to revolutionise the way we approach healing from autoimmune disease. After watching his mother live with Hashimoto’s for over two decades, he knew there had to be a better way. He founded The Autoimmune Revolution, dedicated to helping women not only reduce symptoms but reconnect with their purpose, feel good in their bodies again, and step into the life they truly want to live. Justin holds a Master’s in Human Nutrition, has studied mind-body medicine extensively, and is currently pursuing his doctorate in Health Sciences with a concentration in Trauma Counselling. He is the author of three books, including The Post-Dieting Comeback and The Autoimmune Breakthrough Journal, and hosts The Autoimmune Revolution Podcast. Connect with Justin: Website Get Justin’s free The Autoimmune Mastery Roadmap About Life Now Coaching: We unwrap what healthy living really means, helping you cut through the confusion and overwhelm to build sustainable, healthy habits that actually fit your life. We’re here to strip back the noise and show you why prioritising your health is the key to the happy, vibrant life you’re striving for. We specialise in supporting women in midlife to take control of their wellbeing and menopause journey using our RESET plan focused on: Mindset, Movement, Nutrition, Sleep, and Stress. Because when you feel strong, capable, and in control, everything changes. Explore Our Free Resources & Support: ✨ Download your FREE guide: ⁠10 proven ways to navigate perimenopause with confidence⁠ 🌎 Visit our ⁠website⁠ 📸 Follow on ⁠Instagram⁠ 💼 Connect on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ 🎥 Watch podcast episodes on ⁠YouTube⁠ 📖 Full episode notes available on our website ⁠here⁠ 🎙 Love the podcast? Subscribe, rate, and review to help more women create their own healthy habits and thrive through every season of life - including menopause!

    58 min
  2. 8 JUL

    #142: What I learned from Mel Robbins that every woman needs to hear

    Have you ever felt like you’re running out of time — or behind where you should be? In this solo episode I’m opening up about a pivotal moment that reshaped my midlife journey. Inspired by my recent trip to London to see Mel Robbins live, I’m sharing the powerful message that helped me rebuild my identity, reclaim my confidence, and make one life-changing decision after another. From leaving a long-term corporate role to starting over in my mid-forties, I get raw and real about what it truly means to trust yourself — especially when everything feels uncertain. If you’ve ever thought “this is just how life is now,” this episode is your permission slip to believe otherwise. A few highlights from this episode: How Mel Robbins’ words sparked my transformation. The shift from anxiety and burnout to self-trust and clarity. What your inner voice is really telling your brain — and how to change it. Why self-worth isn't something you earn, it's something you remember. How to start making decisions from a place of belief, not fear. Motivation is not a prerequisite for action; action creates motivation. Your thoughts shape your reality; be mindful of your self-talk. Change requires discipline, not perfection. You are capable of making significant changes in your life. About Life Now Coaching: We unwrap what healthy living really means, helping you cut through the confusion and overwhelm to build sustainable, healthy habits that actually fit your life. We’re here to strip back the noise and show you why prioritising your health is the key to the happy, vibrant life you’re striving for. We specialise in supporting women in midlife to take control of their wellbeing and menopause journey using our RESET plan focused on: Mindset, Movement, Nutrition, Sleep, and Stress. Because when you feel strong, capable, and in control, everything changes. Explore Our Free Resources & Support: ✨ Download your FREE guide: ⁠10 proven ways to navigate perimenopause with confidence⁠ 🌎 Visit our ⁠website⁠ 📸 Follow on ⁠Instagram⁠ 💼 Connect on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ 🎥 Watch podcast episodes on ⁠YouTube⁠ 📖 Full episode notes available on our website ⁠here⁠ 🎙 Love the podcast? Subscribe, rate, and review to help more women create their own healthy habits and thrive through every season of life - including menopause!

    28 min
  3. 1 JUL

    #141: Unlocking the secret to quality sleep in menopause

    How well do you really sleep? Maybe you're one of the many midlife women who’ve found yourself lying awake at 3 a.m., wide-eyed and wired—even though you’re exhausted. If that sounds familiar, you're not alone. In fact, disrupted sleep is one of the most common (and frustrating) shifts many women experience as they move through perimenopause and menopause. In this episode I’m joined by sleep expert Imogen Russell for a real and practical conversation about why your sleep has changed—and what you can do to feel more rested and in rhythm with your body again. Here’s what we unwrap in this episode: Why midlife sleep disruption is so common—and what’s really going on behind it. The role of circadian rhythms and sleep pressure (and how to reset them). How a good night’s sleep starts in the morning—not just before bed. What “parenting yourself to sleep” actually looks like (and why it works). Simple switches you can make to build a wind-down routine that truly supports you. Why aiming for better—not perfect—sleep is the shift that matters most. If you’ve been searching for a quick fix, this episode might challenge you. But if you’re ready for a supportive, doable approach that meets you where you are, this one’s for you. About Imogen Russell: Imogen is a paediatric sleep consultant and founder of The Little Sleep Company, known for her calm, attachment-focused approach to infant sleep. With a background in education and therapeutic parenting, she works at the intersection of sleep science, parental wellbeing, and responsive care, offering practical, evidence-informed support to families across the UK and beyond. She has partnered with national retailers like Mamas & Papas as their Resident Sleep Expert, where her content reached almost a million views. Beyond the parenting world, Imogen is increasingly shaping how businesses support working parents, developing workplace wellbeing toolkits and speaking on the link between sleep, performance, and culture. Imogen helps people feel less alone, more empowered, and better rested. Connect with Imogen: Website Instagram LinkedIn About Life Now Coaching: We unwrap what healthy living really means, helping you cut through the confusion and overwhelm to build sustainable, healthy habits that actually fit your life. We’re here to strip back the noise and show you why prioritising your health is the key to the happy, vibrant life you’re striving for. We specialise in supporting women in midlife to take control of their wellbeing and menopause journey using our RESET plan focused on: Mindset, Movement, Nutrition, Sleep, and Stress. Because when you feel strong, capable, and in control, everything changes. Explore Our Free Resources & Support: ✨ Download your FREE guide: ⁠10 proven ways to navigate perimenopause with confidence⁠ 🌎 Visit our ⁠website⁠ 📸 Follow on ⁠Instagram⁠ 💼 Connect on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ 🎥 Watch podcast episodes on ⁠YouTube⁠ 📖 Full episode notes available on our website ⁠here⁠ 🎙 Love the podcast? Subscribe, rate, and review to help more women create their own healthy habits and thrive through every season of life - including menopause!

    51 min
  4. 24 JUN

    #140: Understanding Osteoporosis: Risks and prevention for midlife women

    Did you know that 1 in 2 women in the UK will be diagnosed with osteoporosis and that breaking a bone increases your risk of death from any cause? Living long and strong is our focus today in this enlightening conversation with GP and menopause expert Dr. Nancy Allen to explore the often-hidden health risks that come with menopause and midlife, and how you can take control before it’s too late. Nancy shares her personal experience of entering menopause early, being diagnosed with osteopenia, and the powerful lifestyle changes she made to turn things around. It’s a real, honest conversation about health, ageing, and the simple habits that can shape the rest of your life. If you’ve never given your bone health a second (or even first) thought, or found yourself putting off looking after yourself until things feel urgent, this conversation is for you. Here’s what we unwrap in this episode: Why osteoporosis is a major, often-overlooked risk for women post-menopause. How your family history may hold vital clues about your future health. The lifestyle changes Nancy made to reverse her osteopenia (and how you can too). The role of HRT in protecting your bones and your heart. Why improving your health span, not just your lifespan, matters more than ever. The truth about protein, strength training, and daily movement in midlife. The link between alcohol, nutrition and how we actually feel (and age). About Dr Nancy Allen: Dr. Nancy Allen is a GP and menopause specialist with a passion for empowering women through every stage of midlife and beyond. She is a respected member of the British Menopause Society, the Royal College of General Practitioners, the European Menopause and Andropause Society, and the International Society of Gynaecological Endocrinology. Having experienced early menopause herself, Dr. Allen deeply understands the daily challenges women face during this transition. Her personal journey has shaped her compassionate, holistic approach to care. With a strong foundation in medical expertise and a commitment to treating the whole person, she is dedicated to helping women feel their best—physically, mentally, and emotionally—through the per menopause and menopause. Connect with Nancy: Website TikTok LinkedIn Complete your free FRAX score Check your fracture risk score for free About Life Now Coaching: We unwrap what healthy living really means, helping you cut through the confusion and overwhelm to build sustainable, healthy habits that actually fit your life. We’re here to strip back the noise and show you why prioritising your health is the key to the happy, vibrant life you’re striving for. We specialise in supporting women in midlife to take control of their wellbeing and menopause journey using our RESET plan focused on: Mindset, Movement, Nutrition, Sleep, and Stress. Because when you feel strong, capable, and in control, everything changes. Explore Our Free Resources & Support: ✨ Download your FREE guide: ⁠10 proven ways to navigate perimenopause with confidence⁠ 🌎 Visit our ⁠website⁠ 📸 Follow on ⁠Instagram⁠ 💼 Connect on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ 🎥 Watch podcast episodes on ⁠YouTube⁠ 📖 Full episode notes available on our website ⁠here⁠ 🎙 Love the podcast? Subscribe, rate, and review to help more women create their own healthy habits and thrive through every season of life - including menopause!

    1h 7m
  5. 17 JUN

    #139: Why pushing harder isn’t the answer – how to reset in midlife

    Ever feel like your mind just won’t switch off? You’re not imagining it. We have up to 60,000 thoughts a day, and most of them are the same ones we had yesterday. In this honest and powerful conversation with business coach Libby Langley, we’re unwrapping how your thoughts shape your reality, and how to take back control before burnout takes over. We talk about the pressure to keep doing, the silent stress of overthinking, and the deep discomfort that so many high-achieving women feel in midlife when their lives no longer feel like a fit. Libby shares her personal story of climbing the ladder, hitting breaking point, and finally choosing a different path — one built on happiness, intentionality and self-worth. Whether you're in a career that no longer feels right, or just tired of feeling like you're not quite yourself anymore, this episode is for you. Together we explore: Why prioritising happiness isn’t selfish and why doing more won’t bring the happiness you're chasing. The silent toll of overthinking and how it impacts health and identity. The quiet crisis of authenticity in women’s careers. Why midlife can feel like everything is shifting, and how that’s not always a bad thing. How to use intentional pauses to rethink what really matters. The link between self-worth, burnout and bravery. How burnout can be a catalyst for change and self-discovery, but why you shouldn’t wait to burnout before making changes. Practical, empowering steps to shift your life gently but powerfully. About Libby Langley: Libby Langley is a business coach, bestselling author, and host of the Unstuck podcast. She helps women who are overthinking everything in their business to untangle their thoughts, simplify what’s working, and build a business that actually feels good to run. With over a decade of experience and a refreshingly honest approach, Libby combines practical strategies with gentle mindset support - helping solo business owners find clarity, confidence, and momentum (without burning out or starting from scratch). Connect with Libby: Website Instagram Podcast F**k Feeling Stuck - If your business owner's brain has been a bit noisy lately, this free guide is for you! About Life Now Coaching: We unwrap what healthy living really means, helping you cut through the confusion and overwhelm to build sustainable, healthy habits that actually fit your life. We’re here to strip back the noise and show you why prioritising your health is the key to the happy, vibrant life you’re striving for. We specialise in supporting women in midlife to take control of their wellbeing and menopause journey using our proven success framework focused on: Mindset, Movement, Nutrition, Sleep, and Stress. Because when you feel strong, capable, and in control, everything changes. Explore Our Free Resources & Support: ✨ Download your FREE guide: ⁠10 proven ways to navigate perimenopause with confidence⁠ 🌎 Visit our ⁠website⁠ 📸 Follow on ⁠Instagram⁠ 💼 Connect on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ 🎥 Watch podcast episodes on ⁠YouTube⁠ 📖 Full episode notes available on our website ⁠here⁠ 🎙 Love the podcast? Subscribe, rate, and review to help more women create their own healthy habits and thrive through every season of life - including menopause!

    39 min
  6. 10 JUN

    #138: Empowering women through hormonal education

    Hearing lots about changing hormones in midlife and menopause but feeling a little lost with what it all means? If you want real insights you can act on, this episode is a must-listen. This week I’m joined by Functional Medicine Practitioner Victoria Wright for an enlightening chat about hormonal health, especially the roles of oestrogen, cortisol, and even cholesterol (yes, really). We break down what’s actually going on in your body during perimenopause and menopause, and why the symptoms you’re experiencing might not just be about “low oestrogen.” We talk about how these hormones interact, how chronic stress can throw everything off balance, and why taking a step back to look at the whole picture is so important. Victoria also shares why a functional medicine perspective—one that treats the whole person, not just the symptoms—is the missing link for many women in midlife. We both agree: education, empowerment and prevention should be at the heart of women’s healthcare. You’ll also hear us dive into: The hormone hierarchy and why cortisol might be stealing the spotlight from oestrogen. What cholesterol really does in your body (hint: it’s not the enemy). Why sleep, food, and managing stress matter more than ever in midlife. The difference between conventional healthcare and a functional approach. How to advocate for yourself when you feel dismissed or overwhelmed. Understanding hormonal health is crucial for women for informed health choices. Women often approach menopause with a prescription mindset. Taking responsibility for health leads to empowerment. About Victoria Wright: Victoria offers evidenced-based, natural health care for all stages of women’s hormone health. This covers everything from stress management, period and fertility issues to menopause and post-cancer care. Her mission is to redefine women’s healthcare. Functional and herbal medicine allow individualised, patient-centred care. Instead of focusing on the traditional disease-centred approach, using her 15 years’ experience she helps to identify and treat the root causes. Connect with Victoria: Website Everything you need to know about hormones webinar About Life Now Coaching: We unwrap what healthy living really means, helping you cut through the confusion and overwhelm to build sustainable, healthy habits that actually fit your life. We’re here to strip back the noise and show you why prioritising your health is the key to the happy, vibrant life you’re striving for. We specialise in supporting women in midlife to take control of their wellbeing and menopause journey using our proven success framework focused on: Mindset, Movement, Nutrition, Sleep, and Stress. Because when you feel strong, capable, and in control, everything changes. Explore Our Free Resources & Support: ✨ Download your FREE guide: ⁠10 proven ways to navigate perimenopause with confidence⁠ 🌎 Visit our ⁠website⁠ 📸 Follow on ⁠Instagram⁠ 💼 Connect on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ 🎥 Watch podcast episodes on ⁠YouTube⁠ 📖 Full episode notes available on our website ⁠here⁠ 🎙 Love the podcast? Subscribe, rate, and review to help more women create their own healthy habits and thrive through every season of life - including menopause!

    55 min
  7. 3 JUN

    #137: Unlocking your energy for a healthier and happier life

    Are you waking up excited and energised to see how the day unfolds? Or does your day start with a sigh and a sense of ‘here we go again’? If it’s the latter, this episode is definitely one for you. I’m joined by Charlotte Carter, high performance coach and energy mentor, for a rich and inspiring conversation about what it really means to feel energised—and how to start building that from the inside out. Charlotte’s approach is grounded in the idea that energy is more than just how awake or tired you feel. It’s physical, yes, but it’s also mental, emotional and spiritual. And when you understand all four, that’s when everything starts to shift. We dive into her personal journey from a career in mental health to helping women live with intention, presence and purpose. We chat about how to navigate the busy trap so many high achievers fall into, why creating space is essential for health and happiness, and how your daily habits can either drain you, or completely light you up. The key highlights from our conversation are: Why creating space is essential to help you feel more present and clear. How your energy is a reflection of what you value (and how you’re living). That energy encompasses physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects. How high achievers often fall into the busy being busy trap. The link between burnout, identity and the pressure to always be ‘on’. What success really looks like in midlife (hint: it starts with inner peace). Why movement should feel like a celebration, not a punishment. How building new healthy habits starts with valuing yourself. About Charlotte Carter: Charlotte Carter is the Founder and CEO of I Dare To Leap Ltd, where she mentors high performers to transform their lives through targeted coaching and energy work. As a clinical hypnotherapist, transformational coach, positive psychology practitioner, energy healer, breathwork facilitator, and personal trainer, Charlotte brings a holistic approach to personal development. Her work with high achievers all over the world focuses on removing barriers to living a truly fulfilling life. An Amazon bestselling author and international podcast host with Align with Abraham, Charlotte's expertise has been featured in prominent publications including Hello Online, Grazia, Daily Telegraph, Marie Claire, and Metro. Connect withCharlotte: Website Instagram Facebook Take a listen to her FREE audio: Your most expansive self About Life Now Coaching: We unwrap what healthy living really means, helping you cut through the confusion and overwhelm to build sustainable, healthy habits that actually fit your life. We’re here to strip back the noise and show you why prioritising your health is the key to the happy, vibrant life you’re striving for. We specialise in supporting women in midlife to take control of their wellbeing and menopause journey using our proven success framework focused on: Mindset, Movement, Nutrition, Sleep, and Stress. Because when you feel strong, capable, and in control, everything changes. Explore Our Free Resources & Support: ✨ Download your FREE guide: ⁠10 proven ways to navigate perimenopause with confidence⁠ 🌎 Visit our ⁠website⁠ 📸 Follow on ⁠Instagram⁠ 💼 Connect on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ 🎥 Watch podcast episodes on ⁠YouTube⁠ 📖 Full episode notes available on our website ⁠here⁠ 🎙 Love the podcast? Subscribe, rate, and review to help more women create their own healthy habits and thrive through every season of life - including menopause!

    39 min
  8. 27 MAY

    #136: The midlife mindset shift you need to hear today

    You know that feeling when you really want to make a change, but no matter how much you want it, you just don’t seem to follow through? Maybe it’s a health goal you’ve been thinking about for months, or a shift you want to make in how you show up in life or work. You start with good intentions, but then life gets in the way… or maybe your own mind does. I’ve been there too. That’s why in this episode, I want to share one simple—but powerful—mindset reframe that’s helped me, and so many of my clients, finally move through the resistance and actually implement the changes we want for ourselves. Join me as I unwrap the importance of mindset in building sustainable healthy habits, especially for women navigating midlife and menopause. I’m giving you lots of actionable, practical tips to help you implement difficult changes so you can better navigate menopause, midlife to feel more energised and worth living that amazing life you desire. Some of the highlights from this episode are: The crucial role of mindset for building sustainable healthy habits. Why overcoming resistance to change requires self-trust. Knowing that procrastination is often a form of self-protection. The ways that perfectionism can hinder personal growth and making changes that last. The key to taking small, consistent steps for lasting change. Why it is so important to celebrate small wins along the way. Identifying and overcoming mindset blocks. Recognising and being okay with change being a gradual process, not an overnight transformation. 6 practical actions you can take to start supporting your change journey today. About Life Now Coaching: We unwrap what healthy living really means, helping you cut through the confusion and overwhelm to build sustainable, healthy habits that actually fit your life. We’re here to strip back the noise and show you why prioritising your health is the key to the happy, vibrant life you’re striving for. We specialise in supporting women in midlife to take control of their wellbeing and menopause journey using our proven success framework focused on: Mindset, Movement, Nutrition, Sleep, and Stress. Because when you feel strong, capable, and in control, everything changes. Explore Our Free Resources & Support: ✨ Download your FREE guide: ⁠10 proven ways to navigate perimenopause with confidence⁠ 🌎 Visit our ⁠website⁠ 📸 Follow on ⁠Instagram⁠ 💼 Connect on ⁠LinkedIn⁠ 🎥 Watch podcast episodes on ⁠YouTube⁠ 📖 Full episode notes available on our website ⁠here⁠ 🎙 Love the podcast? Subscribe, rate, and review to help more women create their own healthy habits and thrive through every season of life - including menopause!

    36 min
5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Unwrapping what healthy really means in midlife, so you feel energised, confident and like you again. Women’s Health Unwrapped is a weekly podcast hosted by Nicola Farndell, exploring the emotional and physical shifts women experience in midlife. Blending expert insight with real stories, the show gently challenges outdated views on health, ageing and self-worth, offering a fresh, grounded perspective on what it means to thrive through perimenopause and beyond. For women who are ready to reconnect with their energy, identity and joy, without the overwhelm.

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