The Henpicked Podcast

Deborah Garlick
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Medicine
  • Updated Weekly

Menopause, it's always been around, as long as they're been women on this earth and they've lived long enough, there's been the menopause. Yet we still have outdated mindset and too little awareness, education and support. Today, we're in a different time - we're living for longer, working for longer, and too many of us are struggling through this life transition. We all experience menopause differently but you are not alone. This podcast brings you up-to-date, expert information and top tips to help empower you to make informed decisions that are right for you: how you experience menopause, manage symptoms and long-term health. It's time for change. Your menopause, your choice.

  1. More Than Periods: The Lifestyle Medicine Approach to Menstrual Health | Sally Leech | EP 102

    10h ago

    More Than Periods: The Lifestyle Medicine Approach to Menstrual Health | Sally Leech | EP 102

    What is lifestyle medicine — and how can it support your menstrual health? In this Lunch & Learn session, Handpicked's Deborah Garlick sits down with Handpicked director Sally Leach to open up a wide-ranging conversation about lifestyle medicine and its role in menstrual health — from everyday cycle symptoms through to serious conditions like PMDD, endometriosis, adenomyosis, fibroids and PCOS. Our hormones interact with nearly every system in the body — metabolism, inflammation, brain chemistry, sleep, gut health and emotional wellbeing — yet menstrual health is still routinely dismissed as "just periods." Sally is clear that lifestyle medicine is never a replacement for medical care, but that the two working together, alongside self-awareness and symptom tracking, can meaningfully improve quality of life. Together, we explore: (00:01:09) What lifestyle medicine actually means — and its link to menstrual health (00:05:44) Why lifestyle medicine isn't a replacement for medical care (00:08:49) PMDD: symptoms, the luteal-phase pattern, and reframing "what's my body telling me?" (00:10:55) Endometriosis: chronic inflammation and how nutrition, movement and pacing can help (00:12:40) Adenomyosis and fibroids: heavy bleeding, anaemia, and iron (00:13:58) Why PCOS has been renamed PMOS — and what that means for treatment (00:17:22) Tracking symptoms and quality-of-life impact to be taken seriously by a GP (00:19:31) Small, sustainable changes over the "from Monday" overhaul (00:23:48) Supporting a daughter with heavy, disruptive periods (00:30:59) Health inequalities in menstrual healthcare and diagnosis Menstrual health doesn't just affect people during "that time of the month" — it can shape energy, mood, sleep and concentration all month long, and it shows up at work, at school and at home. This session is for anyone who wants to understand it better, whether you're living with a menstrual health condition, supporting someone who is, or leading a team. This session was recorded live as part of Handpicked's free Lunch and Learn series, run by specialists in menopause and women's health. For more sessions, visit handpicked.net.

    33 min
  2. PMDD: The Condition That Can Be Mistaken for Everything Else | Pheobe Williams | EP 101

    Jun 29

    PMDD: The Condition That Can Be Mistaken for Everything Else | Pheobe Williams | EP 101

    What is PMDD — and why does it matter at work? In this Lunch & Learn session, Henpicked's Sally Leech sits down with Phoebe Williams, CEO and founder of The PMDD Project, to open up an important and often misunderstood conversation about premenstrual dysphoric disorder. PMDD affects roughly 1 in 20 people and can be so severe it's classified as a disability under the Equality Act 2010 — yet many who live with it spend years being dismissed, misdiagnosed, or simply not believed. Henpicked is proud to be a supporter of The PMDD Project, having donated £5,000 from the Menstruation and Menopause Friendly Employer Awards 2025 event — a testament to their commitment to championing menstrual health in and beyond the workplace. Together, we explore: (00:01:07) What PMDD actually is — and how it differs from PMS (00:02:29) The symptoms: from severe anxiety and depression to suicidal ideation, and why it's so often missed (00:04:32) Why PMDD is frequently misdiagnosed as bipolar disorder or depression — and the importance of cycle tracking (00:05:59) Phoebe's personal journey: living with PMDD from her teens without knowing what it was (00:10:07) How diagnosis works, and why persistence with healthcare professionals is often essential (00:11:46) Treatment options — from SSRIs and luteal-phase dosing to lifestyle changes, supplements, and therapy (00:14:37) What causes PMDD — genetics, trauma, and the emerging links with neurodiversity (autism and ADHD) (00:16:29) The relationship between PMDD and perimenopause, and why hormonal sensitivity can make menopause particularly challenging (00:21:36) Practical strategies for navigating life with PMDD — including diary planning, building a luteal phase toolkit, and tapping into community (00:25:11) The work of The PMDD Project: supporting individuals, training healthcare professionals, and educating employers PMDD doesn't just affect people at home — it affects them at work, in their relationships, and in how they see themselves. This session is for anyone who wants to understand it better, whether you're living with it, supporting someone who is, or leading a team. If you are experiencing suicidal thoughts or are in crisis, please reach out to the Samaritans or your local emergency services. You are not alone. Find out more about The PMDD Project: thepmddproject.org @thepmddproject About Henpicked: Henpicked is the home of the Menopause Friendly Accreditation — supporting organisations to create truly inclusive, informed workplaces for everyone experiencing menopause and menstruation. Find out more at menopausefriendly.co.uk

    31 min
  3. What Your GP Actually Needs to Know About Your Period (And How to Tell Them) | Dr Clare Spencer | EP 100

    Jun 14

    What Your GP Actually Needs to Know About Your Period (And How to Tell Them) | Dr Clare Spencer | EP 100

    How to Talk to Your GP About Menstrual Health | with Dr Clare Spencer Do you ever walk into a GP appointment and forget half of what you wanted to say? Or wonder whether your symptoms are "bad enough" to mention? You are not alone — and this episode is here to change that. In this Lunch & Learn session, Henpicked's Sally Leech sits down with Dr Clare Spencer — GP, women's health specialist, and menopause expert — for a frank, empowering conversation about how to get the most from your GP when it comes to menstrual health. Whether you're dealing with heavy bleeding, cyclical mood changes, suspected endometriosis, or PMDD, Dr Clare cuts through the jargon and tells you exactly how to prepare, what to say, and what questions to ask. Together, they explore: What "normal" actually looks like when it comes to periods — and why it varies so much from person to person The moment you should stop putting up with symptoms and seek help How to keep a menstrual diary and why tracking two full cycles can transform your appointment How to describe your symptoms clearly — without needing to know the medical terminology The questions you should always ask your GP about diagnosis, investigations, and treatment options What to expect if you're referred to a gynaecologist — and how to advocate for yourself along the way A deep dive into PMDD: diagnosis, the role of antidepressants, HRT, and the Mirena coil Why conditions like endometriosis, fibroids, and PCOS (now known as PEMO syndrome) are often undertreated — and how to push for the right care How to find the right GP for women's health, including Women's Health Hubs Your symptoms are valid. Your quality of life matters. And you do not have to suffer in silence. Resources mentioned in this episode: NAPS (National Association for Premenstrual Syndromes): pms.org.uk The PMDD Project: thepmddproject.com Cycle tracking apps mentioned by listeners: Clue, Harded, Cycles, Moody, Stardust The Henpicked Podcast is brought to you by Henpicked: Menopause in the Workplace — the team behind the Menopause Friendly Accreditation. We're on a mission to create workplaces where everyone experiencing menopause and menstruation can thrive.

    32 min
  4. What They Never Taught You at School: Harnessing the Power of Your Menstrual Cycle | Emily Smith from MOONCUP | EP 99

    May 25

    What They Never Taught You at School: Harnessing the Power of Your Menstrual Cycle | Emily Smith from MOONCUP | EP 99

    What They Never Taught You at School: Harnessing the Power of Your Menstrual Cycle Did you know your hormones shift through four distinct phases every month — and that understanding those shifts can genuinely change how you work, rest, move, and feel? In this Lunch & Learn session, Deborah Garlick is joined by Emily Smith, Head of Sales at MOONCUP, for an eye-opening conversation about the menstrual cycle — the kind of conversation most of us never had at school. Emily walks us through the science behind each phase of the cycle, what's really happening in your body, and — most importantly — how you can work with your natural rhythms rather than pushing against them. Whether you're scheduling important meetings, choosing what to eat, or simply trying to understand why some weeks feel effortless and others feel like wading through treacle, this episode is packed with practical, evidence-based insight. This episode is especially timely, releasing just days before Menstrual Hygiene Day on 28 May. In this episode: The four phases of the menstrual cycle — and what's actually happening in your body during each one Why you feel low-energy and reflective at certain times of the month (and why that's completely normal) How rising oestrogen during the follicular phase links to serotonin, confidence, and cognitive performance Practical ways to align your work tasks, social plans, and exercise with your cycle Nutrition tips for each phase — including why your body genuinely craves dark chocolate (and it's not just willpower) How to start tracking your cycle, with or without an app The truth about what's in most mainstream period products — and why it matters for your health and the planet Why working with your cycle isn't "being difficult" — it's evidence-based self-knowledge About Mooncup Mooncup has been raising the standard for period care for over 20 years. Pioneers of the world's first medical-grade silicone menstrual cup, they've grown into a full range of health-first, sustainable period care — including organic pads, tampons, liners, and period pants — all made without petroleum plastics, synthetic dyes, or hidden ingredients. B Corp certified, vegan certified, and proudly independent, Mooncup is on a mission to make period care that works with your body, not against it. Their products are available in Boots, Sainsbury's, Ocado, and Holland & Barrett, and they also supply free-access period care to workplaces, gyms, and hotels across the UK. 🌐 wearemooncup.com 📸 Instagram: @mooncupltd 👔 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/mooncup-ltd 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/mooncupltd

    35 min
  5. What Men Get Wrong About Menopause — And How to Get It Right | Rob Kemp & Joe Warner | EP 98

    May 11

    What Men Get Wrong About Menopause — And How to Get It Right | Rob Kemp & Joe Warner | EP 98

    Menopause affects all of us. Half the population experiences it firsthand — and the other half through the people they love. Yet most men feel completely lost when their partner goes through it. In this Henpicked Lunch and Learn session, we're joined by authors Rob Kemp and Joe Warner, who share what drove them to write their practical guide for male partners, what surprised them most in their research, and why the gap between men's good intentions and their actual impact is so wide — and so fixable. Rob Kemp is a men's health journalist and author with decades of experience writing about men's wellbeing, relationships, and midlife. Joe Warner is a writer, editor and author whose personal experience of his partner's perimenopause journey led him to seek out the book he wished had existed — and eventually, to write it. Together, they've created a practical, honest playbook for men navigating menopause alongside their partners. Together, we explore: Why men often have great intentions but poor execution when it comes to supporting their partners The three things men actually need: knowledge, communication, and shared power Why trying to "fix" menopause is one of the most common — and damaging — mistakes men make The "heard, hugged or helped" framework for navigating difficult conversations The daily battery check-in habit that helps couples stay on the same team Why men should be going to GP appointments — and how to prepare How menopause can become a catalyst for stronger, more honest relationships We also discuss the psychological impact of menopause that often goes unacknowledged, the reality of medical gaslighting, and why a little knowledge really does go a long way. This conversation is a powerful reminder that menopause isn't just a women's issue — it's a relationship issue, a workplace issue, and everyone's business. 🔗 Find the book : https://burningupfrozenout.com/   🔗 Connect with Rob Kemp: Instagram LinkedIn 🔗 Connect with Joe Warner Instagram LinkedIn Substack 🎧 About Henpicked The Henpicked Podcast shares audio recordings from our free Lunch and Learn sessions — expert-led events designed to raise awareness and support women's health in the workplace. For over 13 years, Henpicked has been supporting women and working with organisations to create more inclusive, informed workplaces. To learn more or join an upcoming session, visit: www.henpicked.net You can also follow Henpicked on social media for updates, resources, and expert insights.

    33 min
  6. Endometriosis in the Workplace: Symptoms, Support & What Employers Must Know | Ep 97

    Apr 20

    Endometriosis in the Workplace: Symptoms, Support & What Employers Must Know | Ep 97

    Endometriosis affects 1 in 10 women worldwide. Yet for many, it takes years to be diagnosed—and even longer to be understood. In this Henpicked Lunch and Learn session, we're joined by Dr Vickie Williams, who shares both her personal experience and research-led insights into endometriosis and its impact—particularly in the workplace. Dr Vickie Williams recently completed her PhD at The Open University, focusing on endometriosis, menstrual policy, and the lived experience of working with a long-term condition. Together, we explore: What endometriosis actually is and how it affects the body Why diagnosis can take 8–12 years The wide range of symptoms, from pain and fatigue to gastrointestinal issues and fertility challenges The impact on careers, performance, and workplace progression Why endometriosis is often misunderstood or dismissed as "just a bad period" Practical ways individuals can manage symptoms day-to-day How workplaces can better support employees living with endometriosis We also discuss the emotional toll of living with a chronic condition, the importance of being believed, and how small changes in the workplace can make a significant difference. This conversation is a powerful reminder that endometriosis is not just a health issue—it's a workplace issue too. 🔗 Connect with Dr Vickie Williams Linktree: https://linktr.ee/vickiewilliams_?utm_source=linktree_profile_share<sid=b60ba00c-ae15-45f5-8baa-735f5da0bcff PhD Thesis: https://tr.ee/4xzzsWUtJ7 TED Talk: https://tr.ee/WSBkt3DBD9 🎧 About Henpicked The Henpicked Podcast shares audio recordings from our free Lunch and Learn sessions—expert-led events designed to raise awareness and support women's health in the workplace. For over 13 years, Henpicked has been supporting women and working with organisations to create more inclusive, informed workplaces. To learn more or join an upcoming session, visit: www.henpicked.net You can also follow Henpicked on social media for updates, resources, and expert insights.

    34 min
  7. Autism, ADHD & Menopause: Why Symptoms Can Suddenly Intensify | Dr Clare Spencer | Ep 96

    Apr 6

    Autism, ADHD & Menopause: Why Symptoms Can Suddenly Intensify | Dr Clare Spencer | Ep 96

    Autism, ADHD and menopause are being talked about more than ever — but this is still a developing and often misunderstood area of women's health. In this expert-led Henpicked Lunch & Learn, Deborah Garlick is joined by menopause specialist Dr Clare Spencer to explore how neurodiversity and menopause intersect — and why symptoms can feel suddenly overwhelming during this transition. From late diagnoses to hormonal changes in the brain, this episode unpacks the emerging science, lived experiences, and practical ways to seek support. You'll hear: • What we mean by neurodiversity, including ADHD and autism • Why many women are underdiagnosed — particularly later in life • How hormonal changes during perimenopause affect the brain and neurochemicals • Why symptoms like anxiety, brain fog and overwhelm can feel intensified • The difference between lifelong neurodiverse traits and menopause symptoms • Why perimenopause (not just menopause) is often when challenges begin • The concept of "masking" — and why it can break down during menopause • How to advocate for yourself with healthcare professionals • Why finding the right support may take time and persistence • What workplaces can do to better support neurodivergent employees This is a thoughtful, evidence-informed conversation that highlights just how individual the menopause experience can be — especially when combined with neurodiversity. As discussed in the session, this is an evolving area with growing research, but one thing is clear: awareness, understanding and support are essential. About Dr Clare Spencer This episode features Dr Clare Spencer, GP and menopause specialist at My Menopause Centre. Dr Spencer has extensive experience supporting women through perimenopause and menopause and is part of the clinical team at: 🌐 My Menopause Centre https://www.mymenopausecentre.com/our-team/dr-clare-spencer/ 📱 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/mymenopausecentre/ My Menopause Centre is CQC-rated Outstanding and provides specialist, evidence-based menopause care. About Henpicked Henpicked has been supporting women and working with organisations to create more inclusive, informed workplaces for over 13 years. Through expert-led Lunch & Learn sessions, accreditation programmes and trusted resources, Henpicked continues to drive menopause and women's health awareness in workplaces and beyond. To join future free Lunch & Learn sessions, visit: https://henpicked.net

    34 min
  8. Why Periods Are Still a Workplace Taboo | Menstrual Health with Talycia Nayee | Ep 95

    Mar 23

    Why Periods Are Still a Workplace Taboo | Menstrual Health with Talycia Nayee | Ep 95

    In this episode of the Henpicked Lunch & Learn podcast, host Sally Leech is joined by menstrual health educator and speaker Talycia Nayee to explore why periods are still surrounded by silence in many workplaces. Despite periods being a normal and natural part of life for millions of people, conversations about menstrual health often remain uncomfortable or avoided altogether in professional environments. This silence can make it harder for employees to seek support and for organisations to create inclusive workplace cultures. In this discussion, Talycia shares insights into why the stigma around periods still exists, the barriers that prevent open conversations at work, and why greater awareness and education around menstrual health matters for both employees and employers. The conversation also explores how workplaces can play an important role in supporting women's health by helping to normalise conversations around periods and ensuring employees feel able to speak openly about their health and wellbeing. This episode is part of the Henpicked Lunch & Learn series, helping organisations build knowledge and confidence around women's health in the workplace. Chapter Markers (These work well on Spotify, YouTube, Libsyn and Apple Podcasts) 00:00 Introduction to the episode 01:00 Why periods are still surrounded by silence 02:40 The stigma and discomfort around talking about periods 04:10 How menstrual symptoms can affect daily life and work 06:10 Why workplaces should understand menstrual health 07:20 The wider conversation around women's health at work 09:30 The role education plays in breaking the silence 12:00 Creating more open and supportive workplace cultures 14:30 Key takeaways for organisations

    32 min
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About

Menopause, it's always been around, as long as they're been women on this earth and they've lived long enough, there's been the menopause. Yet we still have outdated mindset and too little awareness, education and support. Today, we're in a different time - we're living for longer, working for longer, and too many of us are struggling through this life transition. We all experience menopause differently but you are not alone. This podcast brings you up-to-date, expert information and top tips to help empower you to make informed decisions that are right for you: how you experience menopause, manage symptoms and long-term health. It's time for change. Your menopause, your choice.

Information

  • Creator
    Deborah Garlick
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © T4W Henpicked Limited
  • Show Website
    The Henpicked Podcast

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