Liberté - Free to Be Rachel Peru

 

When menopause enters the conversation, it's often spoken about in whispers or left unspoken altogether, especially when it comes to opening the conversation with the men in our lives. 

Niki Woods is a peri/menopause educator and coach of midlife professional women and is bringing a refreshing candour to the topic as she discusses her book, "A Man's Guide to Menopause,". 

As a menopause expert , coach and author, Niki's unique perspective on why men should be looped into these discussions—in both personal and professional spheres—could be a game-changer for relationships and workplace dynamics. 

Her approach not only offers a lifeline to couples navigating this life phase but also opens up a dialogue that can transform how men support their partners and colleagues. Imagine a workplace where menopause isn't a taboo but a topic of discussion that leads to mutual understanding and support.

This week's episode takes you behind the scenes of men-only workshops designed to foster this change. Here, in these pockets of open dialogue, men unravel their concerns, learn how to become allies, and confront the broader issues of gendered ageism. Niki breaks down the barriers to communication, urging a rethinking of how we see ageing, particularly for women, and positioning empathy as a cornerstone of professional and personal growth. 

Niki shared some great advice for women interested in the holistic approach to health during menopause. From the subtle power of nutrition and exercise to the complexities of accessing hormonal treatments and the undercurrents of feminism that influence perceptions of women's health, our discussion casts a wide net.

With Niki's book as a catalyst, we're championing the message that a deeper comprehension of menopause is more than a women's issue—it's a societal imperative that benefits us all. 

Key Points

01:33 - 02:54) Empowering Midlife Women in Work (80 Seconds) 

(11:09 - 12:38) Men-Only Sessions for Better Learning (89 Seconds) 

(22:35 - 23:27) Menopause and Hormone Replacement Therapy (51 Seconds) 

(31:41 - 32:42) Managing Stress Through Enjoyable Exercise (61 Seconds) 

(35:55 - 36:40) Championing Women and Menopause Support (45 Seconds)

Find out more about Niki Woods

Niki is a former HR Manager turned peri/menopause educator and coach of midlife professional women.

A regular guest speaker for the CIPD (Chartered Institute of Personnel & Development), and works with businesses to improve menopause awareness, education, and support for employers, managers, and colleagues.

Niki also coaches individual clients to improve their lifestyle, health, mindset, and confidence during perimenopause and beyond with an integrated approach covering fitness, nutrition, mindset, and habits-based coaching.

A member of the British Menopause Society and International Menopause Society, she has featured several times in local media & podcasts educating on menopause and health, and runs a 1500-member free Facebook group dedicated to supporting women in midlife.

I will be back in a fortnight but in the meantime,

Keep being fabulous

Rachel




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The word "midlife" often conjures images of a crisis or a slowing down of life.  However, this latest episode with Emma Sayle, the visionary behind the sexual exploration community Killing Kittens, paints a different picture - one of liberation, confidence, and the rekindling of desire later in life. 

Emma founded Killing Kittens in 2005 in response to demand from young, independent single women who wanted an adult party that reflected their modern values. Becoming on of the UK's leading 'sex-entrepreneurs'. Creating the most decadent, extravagant, and exclusive parties in the industry, where, for the first time, women were in control of the narrative and events.

Since then, Killing Kittens has grown into a global phenomenon that welcomes all genders and sexualities to come and play without losing this focus on empowering the traditionally disenfranchised to find love in their bodies, access pleasure and nourish their sex lives. At KK, Kittens will always come first.

Join me us for a candid conversation with Emma as we dive into the depths of female sexuality and empowerment in midlife. Emma is not just a businesswoman; she's a revolutionary in the realm of feminine pleasure. Through her work with Killing Kittens, she's created an inclusive, safe haven for women to express and explore their sexuality without judgment or shame at any age in adulthood.

 Shedding light on the significance of spaces where women are in the driver's seat, the disparities between male and female sexual freedom, and the role of inclusivity in modern party culture. A community that constantly challenges society’s double standards. While men have traditionally been given a free pass to explore their sexual desires, women often face scrutiny and stigma. This episode addresses the shaming and judgment women endure at any age, particularly relevant here with those leaving a relationship or marriage behind later in life. 

 I hope by listening to this conversation you will feel enlightened, perhaps a little curious and hopefully more understanding of those that choose to explore this path. 

Keypoints-

(00:01) - Empowering Midlife Women Through Conversation

(06:05) - Exploring Female Sexuality and Empowerment

(13:30) - Global Party Culture and Gender Inclusivity

(18:46) - Breaking Stigmas Surrounding Sexuality

(28:24) - Navigating Gender & Sexuality Conversations

(36:42) - Empowering Women to Explore Sexuality

Find out more- https://www.killingkittens.com

Follow Emma on Instagram

Emma is the pioneering UK entrepreneur behind Killing Kittens, a global empowerment brand launched in 2005, now part of KK Group, which includes WAX social dating app, sistr and safedate and a network of 200,000+ members worldwide. She’s run events globally and an online community for sexual empowerment. In 2021, KK was named Growth Business of the Year, with Emma being a finalist in multiple entrepreneur awards. Recognised as a leader in women’s empowerment, Emma’s featured in top entrepreneur lists and media outlets. An extreme sports enthusiast, she’s raised over £1M for women’s charities while balancing motherhood and global business leadership.

I will be back in a fortnight but in the meantime ,

Keep being fabulous

Rachel x



 

 



 

 

 


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I love being part of the midlife community but what about the women over 60 and 70+ who are paving the way forward for us. I want to hear more positive stories of life post menopause.

That’s why I’m a huge fan of the Glorious Broads platform and couldn’t wait to hear more from the founder and creative content director, Maryjane Fahey who is on a mission to celebrate the undimmed spirit of older women. Listen in as Maryjane sheds light on what makes a Glorious Broad?

Find out how these women are reshaping societal views and offering invaluable mentorship to younger generations. They’ve certainly made a big impact on social media with 117k followers on TikTok and 242k on Instagram, where their vibrant tales of living fearlessly and with purpose resonate profoundly with audiences. 

 Maryjane shares how these women speak with refreshing candour on topics society often shies away from—sex, libido, menopause—and how they're changing the game by laughing in the face of the taboos and invisibility that come with age.

You can read the ground breaking Cosmopolitan article here-https://www.cosmopolitan.com/interactive/a45893760/sex-after-60/

 These trailblazing women demonstrate that age is no barrier to living with gusto and that life only grows richer with each new chapter. Listening to MaryJane’s enthusiasm for new projects, including an exciting television programme, creating a bold and exciting life in her 70’s is inspiring and I look forward to seeing her platform grow to reach more women around the globe.

 This episode left me wanting to be just like these Glorious Broads as I age. They are helping is all see the joy of aging, spotlighting the power of positive role models who embody the beauty and wisdom that come with life's experiences. 

 “Every year lived is a badge of honour, and these Glorious Broads are leading the parade.” #maryjanefahey

To read more fabulous stories visit- ⁠ Glorious Broads⁠

Highlights

(04:02 - 04:59) Inspiring Community of Unconventional Women (57 Seconds)

(08:20 - 09:39) Embracing Strength in Aging Women (80 Seconds) 

(15:45 - 16:13) Openness About Sex - lifting the stigma of talking about sex after 60 (28 Seconds) 

(22:40 - 23:47) Views on Aging and Longevity (68 Seconds)

Women over 60, Ageism, Female Empowerment, Aging, Positive Role Models, Diversity, Sex, Libido, Menopause, Cosmopolitan, Invisibility, Longevity, Health, , Personal Growth

 

 


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Have you ever felt paralyzed by fear, unable to make the leap towards the life you truly desire? 

 Today's podcast features Heidi Fossali, life coach and author of "Frightened to Fabulous," where she recounts the pivotal moments of leaving an unhappy marriage and the resilience it took to rebuild her life as a single mother abroad. Her journey isn't just a story of personal victory; it's a beacon for anyone searching for the courage to pursue authentic joy and passion.

 I first met Heidi at a Noon retreat hosted by Eleanor Mills and we’ve been following each other’s journey ever since. Heidi has an infectious zest for life and is helping other women find theirs too.

 Discovering who we truly are is often a journey that intensifies in our midlife years, where change becomes not just a want, but a need. Heidi and I discuss the emotional whirlwinds that accompany these transformations, whether it's navigating the new terrain of divorce, redefining a career path, or adjusting to the empty nest when children leave home. 

Heidi shares, with permission, some of her clients’ own transformations, from overlooked to full of confidence is a powerful testament to the strength that lies in every woman. Moreover, we delve into the pressing issues that women in their 40s and beyond face—from the nuances of menopause to the importance of rekindling a relationship with one's body and spirit.

 We address the deep-seated topic of nurturing self-worth and the radiance that comes from within. Heidi highlights how true self-confidence is cultivated through internal clarity, nourishment, and physical well-being, rather than superficial makeovers. Whilst a flash of red lipstick might give you a quick lift , it’s the inner work that will make a difference?

 Heidi has lived in some fabulous locations, including Los Angeles, London and now South of France and she shares her global insights on aging and self-assurance, urging us to empower the next generation to break free from self-limiting beliefs. 

As we close, we tackle the profound impact of authenticity and community support—encouraging listeners to embrace their own narratives, to speak their truth, and connect with a world that thrives on shared stories of empowerment.

Follow Heidi on instagram @Heidi.fossali

I'll be back in a fortnight , In the meantime,

Keep being fabulous

Rachel x

 Key Notes-

(02:23 - 04:00) Breaking Free from Traditional Values (96 Seconds) 

(07:07 - 08:34) Transformation Journey (87 Seconds) 

(12:36 - 13:33) Rediscovering Confidence and Passion (57 Seconds) 

(22:51 - 24:00) Self-Confidence and Personal Transformation (69 Seconds)

(26:52 - 28:33) Empowering Women Through Public Speaking (101 Seconds) 

(30:40 - 31:37) Embracing Self-Love and Intuition (57 Seconds) 

(35:36 - 36:07) Finding Connection and Purpose in Midlife (31 Seconds) 



#Midlife, #Transformation, #Divorce, #Reinvention, #Empowerment, #Self-Confidence, #Personal Growth, #libertefreetobe #midlifestories

 


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Have you ever pondered the threads that stitch together the story of our lives with the clothes we wear? 

Tee Gray, whose roots in Leeds’s historic fashion industry, blossomed amidst the vibrant fashion and clubbing scene of 80's London, takes us on an eclectic journey.

As we traverse the city's evolving music and fashion landscape, Tee's transformation from psychiatric nursing to a creative life in fashion embodies the synergy of personal growth and sartorial expression. 

Tee shares candid stories of overcoming setbacks and celebrates the pro-aging movement's spotlight at London Fashion Week to an opportunity to shoot with Rankin.

 Fashion's fleeting trends often overshadow the pressing need for sustainability and ethical production; this episode challenges the status quo. 

Tee's insights spotlight the resurgence of garment altering and ethical consumption, particularly among millennials. Tee shares her own love of collecting preloved jewellery and iconic fashion pieces that she not only incorporates in to her own wardrobe but also sells in her TrueStreetCurator  collection, available at the Red House in York.

 This episode is a patchwork of perspectives, experiences, and revelations that promise to leave you inspired to create a wardrobe that tells your unique story, one that's responsibly chic and timelessly fashionable.

 I had the pleasure of interviewing Tee in the newly launched Trad Collective store in the heart of Leeds, which was the perfect place to discuss our love for pre-loved and reworked sustainable fashion. I came away with an amazing reworked vintage denim jacket with a fabulous Frida Kahlo print on the back. It’s definitely worth a visit!

 I left our conversation feeling not only inspired but even more determined to fight against ageism in the fashion industry because it’s women’s voices like Tee’s that need to be part of the fashion forward conversation. Older women have lived experiences and wisdom to share that the next generation can learn so much from. 

 To find out more about Tee Gray visit-

IG @truestreetcurators

X  @truemuse1

Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/tee-gray/

 I'll be back in a fortnight but in the meantime.  

Keep being fabulous  

Rachel x ⁠⁠

⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/libertefreetobe⁠⁠⁠




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Ever wondered how a melody can lift spirits or a chorus can heal hearts?

Join us as I welcome back the remarkable Sophie Garner, whose voice and vision are transforming lives through the power of singing. Sophie first joined the podcast in 2020 (Ep.57) and has been on a non-stop mission since we last spoke.



Sophie shares her journey since 2020, from empowering corporate executives with song to facilitating workshops that champion emotional healing. Her work with a diverse array of groups, including those navigating the aftermath of brain injuries and teenagers confronting trauma, is nothing short of transformative. Prepare to be inspired by Sophie's stories of levelling the playing field with a melody and the profound impact that music and singing can have on personal growth. 

 

We chat about the magic that happens when we sing—how the release of endorphins and serotonin can alleviate pain and create a sense of connection that's as palpable as the harmonies in a choir. We tackle the myth of 'tone-deafness' and share uplifting stories of individuals who've found their voice beyond the shadows of childhood singing snags. I witnessed the power of Sophie’s community choir workshops at last year’s Womanifest, where she brought together a group of strangers and within an hour had created a harmonious choir that performed live that day, it was magical to watch.

 

Sophie is also on a mission to unlock people’s creativity with her new book "Reawakening the Creative Playmaker," which will be out this month and I am very proud to have contributed , sharing my own reconnection with creativity later in life. 



I am so excited about our upcoming workshop , Sophie and I invite you to join us, on Saturday 20th April, In Leeds for an event that's more than just a choir session—it's a gathering of empowerment, creativity, and community.

The day is going to be an incredible experience of empowerment through singing and creative self expression and  built body confidence. Sophie is a professional  singer and the UKs Choir to Confidence coach,  through her expert knowledge, she will support and guide you, connecting you to your own unique voice and power, unleashing your creativity. We will learn three songs and perform them live on social media at the end of the day. It's going to be magical.

You can find out more here- https://www.tickettailor.com/events/sophiegarner/1184339 

So, tune in, harmonize with us, and rediscover the joy of creative living.

To find out more about Sophie's work visit-⁠Sophie Garner⁠

You can also follow her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/sophie.garner/

Key points-

00:00) - Reconnecting with Singer and Choir

(08:18) - The Healing Power of Singing

(18:24) - Reawakening Creative Playmaker

(28:31) - Women Empowering Through Music and Community

(35:23) – The Empowerment Workshop- The Choir workshop

 Keywords-

#Choir #Empowerment #CreativePlaymaker #midlifewomen #Selfexpression #Confidence #Community #EmpowermentWorkshop #Singing, #Selfdiscovery #libertefreetobe #womenspodcast

Keep being fabulous   

Rachel ⁠⁠ 

⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://linktr.ee/libertefreetobe⁠⁠


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