The Grown-Up Girls Report Podcast

Alex Merton-McCann
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On each episode of The Grown-Up Girls Report, Alex Merton-McCann will focus on issues relevant to busy, multi-tasking women who still very much have their girl energy! From health & well-being to parenting, careers and technology, Alex will ensure listeners are up to date with the latest trends and research. Alex's mission is to ensure grown-up girls have all the support they need to keep their multiple balls in the air.

  1. Aug 18

    The Good, the Great & the Abandoned - our TV picks for 2026 So Far!

    In this episode, I’m joined by my fellow (very talented) TV-watching buddy, Mandy Newman, as we compare notes on what we’ve been watching in the first half of 2026.  The rules are simple: the shows don’t have to have been released in 2026 — they just have to be things we’ve watched during the first six months of the year. And, importantly, Mandy and I don’t discuss our lists beforehand. We save them up, come to the microphone, and reveal our favourites to each other on air.  Which is always fun, sometimes surprising, and this time came with one slightly horrifying revelation: I watch an absolutely terrifying amount of television.  We talk about the shows we loved, the ones that completely sucked us in, the performances that stayed with us long after the credits rolled — and, just as importantly, the shows we simply could not bring ourselves to finish. The ones we started with the best of intentions and then quietly abandoned because life is too short to keep watching something you’re not enjoying.  There’s crime, romance, family drama, documentaries, comfort viewing, international series and a fair bit of disagreement along the way.  Among the shows and documentaries that came up were Industry, the Kylie documentary, the Melania documentary, The Madison, Vera, I Will Find You, The Stranger, Criminal Record, Silent Witness, Love Is Blind: Poland, Your Friends & Neighbours, Sweet Magnolias, Virgin River, The Chestnut Man and Strife — plus a few more honourable mentions thrown in for good measure.  Some are beautifully written, some are deeply addictive, some are perfect comfort TV, some we absolutely adored — and some we gave up on completely.  As always, the conversation ends up being about more than television. We talk about why certain stories land at different ages and stages, how our tastes change over time, the characters we connect with, and why a great series can sometimes be exactly what you need at the end of a long day.  And if nothing else, you should come away from this episode with a very healthy list of things to watch next — and perhaps a little reassurance that it is perfectly okay to stop watching something when it’s just not doing it for you.  Settle in, grab a cup of tea or a glass of wine, and join Mandy and me for our favourite watches from the first half of 2026.  Lots of love,  Alex x  PS - If you’ve watched something brilliant lately, send it my way. Mandy and I are always looking for the next show to add to the list — apparently we have plenty of viewing hours available.    Chapters  00:00 — The Rules: What We’ve Been Watching in 2026  02:05 — The Shows We Started… and Just Couldn’t Finish  04:01 — Kylie, Documentaries & Pop Culture  06:00 — Our Top TV Picks from the First Half of the Year  08:59 — The Performances We Couldn’t Stop Talking About  11:59 — Love, Loss, Family & the Shows That Stay With You  15:01 — Crime, Comfort TV & Completely Different Tastes  17:54 — Honourable Mentions and More Shows Worth Watching  21:00 — The Terrifying Truth: Just How Much TV Have We Watched?  Want more from The Grown-Up Girls Report?  Follow along and join the conversation: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegrownupgirlsreport 🎧 Subscribe so you never miss an episode.

  2. Jul 30

    The Longevity Conversation Every Woman Needs to Have with Dr. Ginny Mansberg

    The Longevity Conversation Every Woman Needs to Have with Dr. Ginny Mansberg  What if the most important decisions you make for your future health aren't the dramatic ones—but the small choices you make every single day?  This week I'm joined by one of Australia's most trusted GPs and health experts, Dr. Ginny Mansberg, to discuss her brilliant new book, The Women's Longevity Handbook, and the science behind living not just longer, but better.  There is so much noise around menopause, aging and longevity that it can be difficult to know where to focus your energy. Should we be worrying about our hormones? Our brain? Our heart? The latest supplement? The newest wellness trend?  Drawing on the latest research from The Women's Longevity Handbook, Dr. Ginny helps us cut through the confusion with practical, evidence-based advice that every woman can apply. We explore the health risks many of us underestimate, the everyday habits that have the greatest impact on our health span, and why it's never too late to make meaningful changes.  Along the way, we talk about heart disease, brain health, the gut microbiome, cancer prevention, and the simple lifestyle choices that can help us stay healthier, stronger and more vibrant for decades to come.  Because perhaps longevity isn't really about adding years to your life.  Perhaps it's about adding life to your years.  Whether you're navigating perimenopause, well into menopause, or simply thinking about the future, I know you'll come away from this conversation feeling informed, empowered and reassured.  Alex xx  Main Topics Covered  The biggest lessons from The Women's Longevity HandbookWhy heart disease remains the number one killer of womenThe lifestyle habits that have the greatest impact on healthy agingWhat really happens to the brain during perimenopause and menopauseReducing your risk of stroke and dementiaThe fascinating role of the gut microbiome in overall healthWhy fibre may be one of the most powerful nutrients for longevityLifestyle changes that can help reduce cancer riskResources & Links   The Women's Longevity Handbook by Dr. Ginny MansbergThe M Word by Dr. Ginny MansbergSave Your Brain by Dr. Ginny MansbergESK SkincareWebsite: https://www.drginni.com.auInstagram: @drginni   Want more from The Grown-Up Girls Report?  Follow along and join the conversation: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegrownupgirlsreport 🎧 Subscribe so you never miss an episode.

  3. Jul 6

    Yesteryear: Tradwives, Time Travel and the Performance of Modern Womanhood

    Yesteryear: Tradwives, Time Travel and the Performance of Modern Womanhood  What if the life you've always dreamed about wasn't quite what you imagined?  Yesteryear has become one of the most talked-about books of the year, captivating readers with its thought-provoking premise while sparking passionate conversations about motherhood, marriage, feminism, social media and the growing tradwife movement.  In this episode, I'm joined by a good friend of The Grown-Up Girls Report, Mandy Newman. Mandy is an author, a teacher, and a fabulous thinker. I absolutely love talking books with Mandy because she's incredibly thoughtful, asks brilliant questions, and always notices things I've completely missed. It's so lovely to have her back.  Together, we unpack Caro Claire Burke's debut novel and explore why it has struck such a chord. We discuss the rise of tradwife influencers, the pressure to perform our lives online, and whether we're really longing for the past—or simply searching for certainty, community and meaning in an increasingly complicated world.  Along the way, we explore the novel's biggest ideas, the questions it raises about modern womanhood, and why it has resonated so strongly with readers around the world.  Because perhaps Yesteryear isn't really a novel about time travel at all.  Perhaps it's a story about the roles we play, the expectations we carry, and the versions of ourselves we present to the world.  Whether you've already read Yesteryear or you're simply curious about the conversations surrounding it, we'd love you to join us.  Alex xx  Main Topics Covered  • Why Yesteryear became one of the year's biggest books • Caro Claire Burke's inspiration for the novel • The rise of the tradwife movement and why it resonates with so many women • Natalie: heroine, villain or victim? • Motherhood, marriage and the invisible expectations placed on women • The impact of social media on identity and authenticity • Performance versus reality in our online and offline lives • The novel's themes of nostalgia, faith, feminism and modern womanhood • Why Yesteryear has generated such passionate discussion among readers • The question at the heart of the novel: Does life influence the performance, or does the performance eventually become life?  Timestamps  00:00 – Welcome back and today's book club discussion  00:45 – Introducing Mandy Newman  02:15 – Why Yesteryear has become such a cultural phenomenon 04:45 – Meet the author: Caro Claire Burke 08:00 – What exactly is a tradwife? 12:00 – The premise of Yesteryear 16:00 – Natalie: heroine, villain or victim? 22:00 – Motherhood, marriage and impossible expectations 27:30 – Social media, performance and authenticity 32:30 – Feminism, faith and modern womanhood 36:30 – Why readers have connected so strongly with Yesteryear 40:00 – Final thoughts, ratings and recommendations  Resources & Links  • Yesteryear by Caro Claire Burke • Hannah Neeleman from Ballerina Farm • Nara Smith • Devil in the Family: The Fall of Ruby Franke (Disney +)  Key Takeaways  • Consider the roles you perform in your own life—and whether they reflect who you really are.  • Ask yourself whether we're longing for the past, or simply for more certainty, connection and simplicity.  • Reflect on how social media shapes the way we see ourselves and one another.  • Remember that behind every carefully curated life is a far more complicated human story.    Want more from The Grown-Up Girls Report?  Follow along and join the conversation: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegrownupgirlsreport 🎧 Subscribe so you never miss an episode.

  4. Jun 15

    The Search for More Energy... and a Little More Life

    Have you ever felt like you'd lost your spark—but couldn't quite explain why? After months of illness, fatigue, and feeling like I'd lost a little of myself, I found myself asking a simple question: how do I get my energy back? In this episode, I share my journey through recovery, trying to look after a family, getting a new business (Nancy The Label) up and running, and why I decided to try a 30-day cold-water challenge as an experiment in my search for more energy... and a little more life. Because energy isn't really about getting more done. It's about having the capacity to engage with the people, experiences, and moments that make life feel bigger.  Here's to finding a little more energy... and a little more life. Alex xx   Main Topics Covered • How energy is about more than productivity—it's about engaging with life  • Why low energy doesn't always mean depression  • The impact of illness, menopause, stress, and caregiving on vitality  • Building Nancy The Label while navigating fatigue and recovery  • My experience with a 30-day cold-water challenge  • The behavioural shift from conserving energy to saying yes again  • The power of keeping a promise to yourself  • Reclaiming spontaneity, connection, and joy in midlife   Timestamps 00:00 - Welcome back and episode overview  00:40 - How illness made my world feel smaller  01:26 - The importance of energy beyond motivation and ideas  02:39 - Common midlife energy concerns among women  03:20 - Managing energy and small life changes  03:59 - Differentiating depression from energy depletion  04:33 - The impact of illness on plans and identity  05:09 - How energy influences social life and spontaneity  05:53 - Re-conceptualizing energy as time with loved ones  06:17 - When protecting energy feels like disappearing  06:29 - The emotional toll and identity shifts  07:27 - Building Nancy The Label amidst low energy  08:01 - The disconnect between mind and body  08:13 - Frustration and desire to recover spark  08:54 - Women’s common energy narratives  09:07 - Causes of energy drain: menopause, stress, caregiving  10:12 - The core desire for more life, connection, and enthusiasm  11:19 - Proactive steps for managing recovery  12:11 - My cold plunge therapy experiment  13:14 - How cold water therapy sparked hope and focus  14:24 - The tangible benefits observed so far  15:25 - The value of keeping promises and building momentum  16:11 - Physical and behavioural improvements from the challenge  17:22 - An ongoing journey, not final results  17:56 - Recognising progress and resilience  19:02 - A behavioural shift: saying yes to life again  21:15 - Celebrating small wins in social and personal life  22:38 - The power of commitment and experimentation  23:19 - The real goal: more connection, spontaneity, and joy  24:18 - Invitation to reflect and share your energy solutions   Resources & Links: Nancy the Label - Fashion BrandMy 30-Day Cold-Water Challenge Cold Water Therapy BenefitsChill: The Cold-Water Swim Cure  Connect With The Grown-Up Girls Report Instagram Facebook  Key Takeaways • Consider one small experiment that might support your energy  • Reflect on what activities give or drain your energy  • Make a promise to yourself to try one small change today  • Focus on reclaiming more of your life, not just productivity   Want more from The Grown-Up Girls Report?  Follow along and join the conversation: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegrownupgirlsreport 🎧 Subscribe so you never miss an episode.

  5. Jan 1

    The TV Shows That Carried Us Through 2025 - Our Top TV Picks of the Year

    In this episode, I’m joined by my fellow talented TV watcher buddy Mandy Newman and we share our top TV shows of 2025. But apart from sharing our top watches with you, we also get a little deep (and honest) and share why TV mattered for us in 2025.  We talk about why certain shows landed so deeply this year, what they say about the season of life we’re in, and how television can sometimes meet us exactly where we are. From stories of grief and reinvention to humour, relationships, faith, power, and identity, this conversation explores how good storytelling can help us make sense of our own lives.  In addition to sharing our Top 5 shows of the year, we also include quite a few honourable mentions, and reflect on themes that kept appearing — particularly women’s stories, emotional honesty, and the quiet reassurance that comes from feeling seen.  This episode is for anyone who’s found comfort in a familiar show at the end of a long day, who’s noticed how their viewing habits have shifted over time, or who is simply on the look out for something fab to watch!  So, settle in and join us — and as always, we’d love to hear what stayed with you this year.  Lots of love Alex x    Summary  In this episode, Alex and Mandy reflect on the role television played in their lives throughout 2025 — not just as entertainment, but as a source of comfort, connection, and insight. Through an honest, wide-ranging conversation, they explore how storytelling can mirror real life, help us process grief and change, and spark meaningful conversations about identity, relationships, faith, power, and personal growth.   The discussion highlights the growing representation of women’s stories on screen, the emotional impact of vulnerability in storytelling, and the quiet reassurance that comes from feeling seen. This episode celebrates television as a deeply human medium that can offer both escape and understanding.    Key Takeaways  Television can provide genuine comfort and a sense of connection.  What we’re drawn to on screen often reflects the season of life we’re in.  Women’s stories and perspectives are increasingly visible in modern media.  Grief, identity, and relationships are common themes in recent storytelling.  Representation in media influences how we see ourselves and others.  Humour can be a powerful way to explore serious themes.  Stories about women and power remain deeply relevant.  Television can spark meaningful conversations about society and culture.    Chapters  00:00 — The Therapeutic Power of Television  08:02 — Comfort Watching & Emotional Connection  12:20 — Motherhood, Work, and Identity  15:00 — Comfort TV vs Gripping TV  22:51 — Celebrating Age, Talent, and Visibility  24:04 — Faith, Relationships, and Belief  30:45 — Women, Power, and Representation  32:42 — The Healing Power of Humour  43:29 — Reflections on Aging and Storytelling  45:34 — Finish  Want more from The Grown-Up Girls Report?  Follow along and join the conversation: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegrownupgirlsreport 🎧 Subscribe so you never miss an episode.

  6. 12/16/2025

    Reinventing Midlife, One Dress At A Time

    Midlife Reinvention, One Dress at a Time  A personal reflection on midlife reinvention, creativity, and building a fashion brand in your second chapter.  In this episode, I’m reflecting on midlife reinvention — and sharing my own story. This is a very honest catch-up, where I share where I’ve been, what the past season has held, and why it’s taken me a little while to return to the microphone.  I open up about launching Nancy The Label — a business born from legacy, creativity, and a deep desire to create something meaningful in this second chapter. I share the excitement, the fear, the self-doubt, and the moments of courage that came with starting again.  This episode is for anyone who’s felt the nudge to change direction, who’s wondered if it’s too late, or who’s standing on the edge of something new and slightly terrifying. Reinvention is rarely neat or linear — and that’s okay.  So, settle in and join me — I hope this conversation reminds you that you’re not behind, you’re not alone, and it’s never too late to begin again.  Lots of love  Alex x    Chapters  00:00 The Journey of Reinvention Begins  05:24 Launching Nancy the Label  12:00 The Challenges of Midlife Reinvention  16:05 Rediscovering Identity in Midlife  18:49 Embracing Change and New Beginnings  20:04 Finish      Want more from The Grown-Up Girls Report?  Follow along and join the conversation: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegrownupgirlsreport 🎧 Subscribe so you never miss an episode.

  7. 08/13/2025

    The Divorce Chat Every Woman Needs To Hear

    Episode Description In this episode, I am joined by Cassandra Kalpaxis, a family lawyer, domestic violence educator, and author – and we talk about financial independence for women and the concept of a ‘Dignified Divorce’. Now, every woman needs to listen to this episode, even if things in the relationship arena are ‘tickety-boo’ because this episode is all about protecting yourself - just in case. Cassandra explains the importance of financial knowledge for women, the importance of understanding one’s rights and the concept of escape funds. She outlines how to have an amicable separation, how to achieve a ‘Dignified Divorce’ and how to successfully co-parent. She is also a big fan of ‘pre-nups’ – so listen in to hear why. In addition to being a lawyer, Cassandra is also a passionate Domestic Violence advocate. Her insights into the various forms of coercive control and the ‘generational lens’ on this is really compelling.  This is a really thought-provoking interview that I guarantee you’ll learn a lot from. Cassandra’s practical advice and empowering messages are all about women claiming their independence and make informed decisions about their lives and relationships. Cassandra’s book Dignified Divorce is available for sale here. As she says – it’s cheaper than a consultation! Alex xx Resources Dignified Divorce – available here. The Domestic Violence Legal Service – a specialist free legal service for women experiencing domestic and family violence in New South Wales. There are similar services available in every state in Australia. Connect with Cassandra Instagram: @cassandrakalpaxis  Website: calpaxuslegal.com.au Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dignified Divorce 01:55 Cassandra's Journey: From Lawyer to Author 05:20 Navigating Economic Vulnerability in Relationships 08:46 Understanding Financial Infidelity and Abuse 10:40 The Importance of Escape Funds 14:23 Creating a Dignified Divorce 18:06 The Role of Communication in Separation 22:40 Navigating Conflict Resolution in Relationships 26:24 Understanding Prenuptial Agreements 31:20 Educating on Domestic Violence 39:33 Exiting Unhealthy Relationships 42:40 Empowerment and Financial Independence   PS - Want More? You can find more from The Grown-Up Girls Report here: https://www.facebook.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/ https://www.instagram.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/ https://www.tiktok.com/@thegrownupgirlsreport PPS – a small commission will be made if you choose to purchase the book through the link above.   Connect with Cassandra Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cassandrakalpaxis/  Website: calpaxuslegal.com.au   Resources Dignified Divorce – available here. The Domestic Violence Legal Service – a specialist free legal service for women experiencing domestic and family violence in New South Wales. There are similar services available in every state in Australia. Connect with Cassandra Instagram: @cassandrakalpaxis  Website: calpaxuslegal.com.au   Want more from The Grown-Up Girls Report?  Follow along and join the conversation: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegrownupgirlsreport 🎧 Subscribe so you never miss an episode.

  8. 08/01/2025

    Health: The Shame Stops Here - Shelly Horton on Midlife, Mental Health & Menopause

    Episode Description In this episode, I’m chatting with Aussie journalist and health advocate Shelly Horton about her perimenopause journey and her new book ‘I’m Your Peri Godmother’. Shelly’s honest and candid recount of her challenges and struggles will confirm that you are absolutely not navigating this journey alone. And I guarantee it will make you both laugh and cry! Shelly details her unexpected health complications and her mental health struggles – struggles that I also experienced. She is passionate about the need for further awareness and education about women's health issues in the workplace and is a big advocate for a shift in how society views midlife women. Hear, hear!!! And while we discuss the challenges, we also celebrate the bonuses that the menopause journey can bring – zest!! So, tune in, join the conversation – I guarantee that it will fill your tank!! Shelly’s book is out now. You can buy it here.  Lots of love Alex x Keywords perimenopause, mental health, women's health, advocacy, workplace awareness, relationships, self-care, empowerment, menopause, health education Takeaways ·       Waking up in the ICU was a shocking experience for Shelly. ·       Perimenopause can lead to unexpected mental health challenges. ·       Women often minimise their health issues and apologize for their struggles. ·       Support from family and friends is crucial during health crises. ·       Advocacy for women's health is essential in the workplace. ·       Education about perimenopause can help women manage their symptoms better. ·       Menopausal zest is about embracing life and prioritizing self-care. ·       Women should not feel invisible during midlife; they have so much to offer. ·       It's important to seek help and not suffer in silence. ·       Finding the right support and resources can lead to empowerment.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Shelley Horton 01:34 Shelley's ICU Experience and Health Journey 09:18 Women’s Apologies and Humor in Crisis 11:56 The Impact of Perimenopause on Confidence 15:43 Mental Health and Perimenopausal Depression 23:12 Conversations with Family about Mental Health 24:07 Bonding Through Shared Stories 26:59 Navigating Family Dynamics and Mental Health 28:41 The Role of Partners in Mental Health 31:45 Understanding Menopause Symptoms 36:48 Sleep and Its Impact on Well-being 40:38 Advocacy for Women in the Workforce 43:12 Raising Awareness in the Workplace 45:27 Menopause Education and Support 46:48 The Business Case for Supporting Women 49:09 Personal Health Journeys and Mindset 53:25 Embracing Menopausal Zest 53:38 Menopausal Zest 57:14 The Launch of 'I'm Your Peri Godmother' PS - Want More? You can find more from The Grown-Up Girls Report here:  https://www.facebook.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/ https://www.instagram.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/reels/?__d=1%2F https://www.tiktok.com/@thegrownupgirlsreport PPS – a small commission will be made if you choose to purchase the book through the link above.   Want more from The Grown-Up Girls Report?  Follow along and join the conversation: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegrownupgirlsreport 🎧 Subscribe so you never miss an episode.

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About

On each episode of The Grown-Up Girls Report, Alex Merton-McCann will focus on issues relevant to busy, multi-tasking women who still very much have their girl energy! From health & well-being to parenting, careers and technology, Alex will ensure listeners are up to date with the latest trends and research. Alex's mission is to ensure grown-up girls have all the support they need to keep their multiple balls in the air.

Information

  • Creator
    Alex Merton-McCann
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Grown-Up Girls Report Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Grown-Up Girls Report Podcast

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