The Iconic Midlife with Roxy Manning

Roxy Manning

What if midlife isn’t a crisis… but your most powerful chapter yet? The Iconic Midlife is the unapologetic podcast for women 40 and over who are ready to own their next act with boldness, brains, and zero apologies. Hosted by longtime entertainment journalist and red carpet insider Roxy Manning, this weekly show challenges outdated narratives around aging—and delivers real, unfiltered conversations about reinvention, ambition, beauty, perimenopause, menopause, sex, money, wellness, friendship, and everything women were told to stop caring about after 40. Each Tuesday, Roxy sits down with celebrity guests, health experts, industry disruptors, thought leaders, and fearless midlife voices to talk about what it really means to age with power, pleasure, and purpose. Whether you’re navigating hormonal shifts or building your empire, The Iconic Midlife will make you feel bold, seen, and completely unbothered by anyone’s expectations but your own. Midlife isn’t invisible. It’s iconic. New episodes every Tuesday. Bonus game episodes drop on Thursdays. Follow the show now—and stay iconic. Social media: Show: @theiconicmidlife Host: @redcarpetroxy

  1. 1d ago

    CNN's Pamela Brown: Why Women's Health Is Still Being Ignored

    Why are women still fighting to be heard when it comes to their own health? CNN anchor and chief investigative correspondent Pamela Brown joins Roxy Manning on The Iconic Midlife for a candid conversation about the gaps in women's healthcare, medical gaslighting, perimenopause, motherhood, and the deeply personal experiences that inspired her to investigate the stories women have been told to keep quiet about. As the host of CNN's new women's health series, Body Language, Pamela is asking some of the questions that medicine, research, and even generations of women have overlooked. Why has women's health historically been underfunded and understudied? Why are perimenopause symptoms so often misunderstood? And why are so many women still struggling to get answers from their doctors? Pamela also opens up about the generational silence surrounding women's health, including memories of watching her own mother experience hot flashes without fully understanding what was happening. It's a powerful reminder of how much information was never passed down to women—and why those conversations matter now more than ever. From navigating the demands of a high-profile journalism career and motherhood to examining the healthcare system through an investigative lens, Pamela brings insight, honesty, and a refreshing perspective to the issues affecting women in midlife. In this episode, we explore: Why women's health remains underfunded, under-researched, and underreported.Medical gaslighting and why women must advocate for themselves in the doctor's office.Perimenopause symptoms that can be mistaken for other medical conditions.The generational silence surrounding menopause and women's health.How Pamela's personal experiences influenced her approach to storytelling.The inspiration behind CNN's Body Language and the conversations it's bringing into the spotlight.Motherhood, ambition, and life behind the scenes as a CNN anchor and investigative journalist.Why asking better questions could change the future of women's healthcare. This episode is about more than menopause. It's about giving women the information, confidence, and voice to demand better answers—and breaking the silence for the generations coming after us. Because women's health isn't a niche issue. It's everyone's issue. Don't Miss Thursday's Game Episode!Pamela is usually the one asking the tough questions, but this Thursday, Roxy turns the tables! Join us for "On the Record or Off?" — The Game, where Pamela takes on rapid-fire questions about life behind the television cameras, unexpected opinions, and what she'd ask a public figure if they had to tell her the absolute truth. It's a playful, revealing side of Pamela you won't want to miss! Subscribe or follow The Iconic Midlife now so you don't miss Thursday's episode. Connect With Pamela BrownFollow Pamela on Instagram: @pamelabrowncnn Watch Body Language on CNN: CNN.com Follow The Iconic MidlifeEnjoyed this conversation? Help us bring more important stories to women everywhere! Listen and subscribe: Apple Podcasts | SpotifyWatch full episodes: YouTubeFollow us on social media: @theiconicmidlife and @redcarpetroxy across your favorite platforms.Rate and review: Leave a five-star rating and a review on Apple Podcasts to help more women discover the show.Share this episode: Send it to a friend, sister, mother, or any woman who deserves to feel heard. New full episodes every Tuesday, with The Game dropping every Thursday. The Iconic Midlife — bold conversations about women's health, reinvention, relationships, ambition, and living life on your own terms. Keep asking questions. You never know where the answers might take you. Links referenced in this episode: cnn.comcnn.com/bodylanguage

    CNN's Pamela Brown: Why Women's Health Is Still Being Ignored
  2. 6d ago ·  Bonus

    Game Episode: Investigative Journalist Allen Salkin: Name Names — The Celebrity PR Game

    Gwyneth’s candle. Mariah’s shade. Tom Cruise’s couch jump. Hollywood supplies the headlines—and Allen Salkin fills in the blanks. Investigative journalist Allen Salkin joins Roxy Manning for “Name Names — The Game” on The Iconic Midlife. The rules are simple: finish the sentence. Names are encouraged. From Gwyneth Paltrow’s provocative approach to celebrity branding to Mariah Carey’s immortal “I don’t know her,” we revisit the moments that became pop-culture shorthand—and debate what they really reveal about fame, image, and getting our attention. Expect candid opinions, unexpected tangents, and plenty to weigh in on yourself. Play along: Which celebrity moment made you think, “Your publicist does not get paid enough”? Share your answer in the comments or tag us on social media. Missed our full conversation? Listen to Allen’s main episode, “Investigative Journalist Allen Salkin: Richard Gere and the Hollywood Rumor That Won’t Die,” for a deeper look at his six-year investigation into the unsubstantiated urban legend—and why celebrity rumors can outlive the facts. Watch the game on YouTube today at 3 PM PT. Subscribe and turn on notifications so you don’t miss it! Keep The Iconic Midlife coming: Follow the show wherever you listen, rate us on Spotify, and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Send this episode to the friend who always has an opinion about Hollywood. Follow me on social media: @theiconicmidlife and @redcarpetroxy across platforms. Come back Tuesday for another conversation on The Iconic Midlife. Links referenced in this episode: allensalkin.com

    Game Episode: Investigative Journalist Allen Salkin: Name Names — The Celebrity PR Game
  3. Oct 27

    Investigative Journalist Allen Salkin: Richard Gere and the Hollywood Rumor That Won't Die

    Six years of investigating. Decades of gossip. And a Hollywood story people still repeat without asking: Where’s the evidence? Investigative journalist Allen Salkin joins Roxy Manning on The Iconic Midlife to explore the unsubstantiated Richard Gere gerbil rumor—and the bigger story behind its staying power. How does an urban legend become something “everybody knows”? Why do we trust a story because someone claims to know the doctor, the friend, or the insider? And what happens when a celebrity’s attempts to protect their reputation risk giving a rumor another life? Roxy and Allen dig into the intersection of fame, sex, shame, and storytelling—and why the most memorable version of a story isn’t necessarily the most credible. In this episode: • What Allen’s years of reporting uncovered about the Richard Gere urban legend—and where the evidence ends • How a rumor can migrate from one person to another • Why supposed insider connections make gossip feel convincing • The dilemma celebrities face when deciding whether to respond • How sensational stories shape reputations long after the headlines fade Come back Thursday for “Name Names — The Game”! Allen finishes the sentences, and Hollywood supplies the material: Gwyneth Paltrow’s infamous candle, Tom Cruise’s Oprah couch jump, and Mariah Carey’s immortal “I don’t know her" to name a few. Expect candid opinions, unexpected detours, and a conversation about the celebrity moments that keep us talking. Enjoyed this conversation? Follow The Iconic Midlife wherever you listen so you don’t miss Thursday’s game or our next guest. Subscribe on YouTube to watch the video episodes, rate the show on Spotify, and leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts. Share this episode with the friend who always has the Hollywood scoop. Follow me on social media: @theiconicmidlife and @redcarpetroxy. And you can catch Allen's podcast, Gerbil, presented by The Hollywood Reporter wherever you get your podcasts and on YouTube. What’s a celebrity rumor you believed for years before you finally questioned it? Tell me in the comments. Companies mentioned in this episode: The Hollywood ReporterThe New York TimesVanity FairCedars-Sinai Medical CenterFood NetworkEsquireExtraNational LampoonToronto StarInstagramGoogleRedditWikipediaTheranosStudio 54Today (NBC)

    Investigative Journalist Allen Salkin: Richard Gere and the Hollywood Rumor That Won't Die
  4. Oct 22 ·  Bonus

    Game Episode: Laura Geller Plays “Prime or Pass?” | Beauty Trends, Makeup & Midlife

    Prime or Pass? Beauty icon Laura Geller is back on The Iconic Midlife, and this time, we're putting her beauty instincts to the test! From makeup trends and beauty rules to the things women are told they should (and shouldn't!) do as they age, Laura is weighing in on what's worth embracing and what's ready to be retired. With decades of experience in the beauty industry, the legendary makeup artist and founder of Laura Geller Beauty knows a thing or two about what works, what doesn't, and why beauty should never come with an expiration date. But will she give these trends their prime-time moment or send them packing? It's time to play Prime or Pass! Don't Miss the Full Interview!If you enjoyed this game, make sure to catch Laura's full conversation with Roxy Manning on The Iconic Midlife, where they discuss: Makeup tips and beauty techniques for women over 40How our relationship with beauty evolves as we ageBreaking outdated beauty rulesConfidence, reinvention, and embracing midlifeLaura's journey building her iconic beauty brand Listen to the full episode of The Iconic Midlife on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or wherever you get your podcasts. Watch the full interview and this game episode on YouTube: Search for The Iconic Midlife and subscribe to the channel! Connect with Laura GellerFollow Laura Geller Beauty on social media: @lauragellerbeauty Website: https://www.laurageller.com Follow The Iconic MidlifeWant more candid conversations about beauty, health, relationships, reinvention, and everything that makes midlife interesting? Follow us on social media: The Iconic Midlife: @theiconicmidlife Roxy Manning: @redcarpetroxy Love the Show? Here's How You Can Support Us!Follow or subscribe to The Iconic Midlife on your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode.Rate and review the show on Apple Podcasts or your preferred podcast app, where available. Your reviews help new listeners discover us!Subscribe on YouTube for full interviews, exclusive games, and behind-the-scenes moments.Share this episode with a friend who loves beauty, makeup, and a little midlife mischief. Now it's your turn! What's one beauty trend you'd give a PRIME to, and what's an absolute PASS? Tell us in the comments on YouTube or social media! #TheIconicMidlife #LauraGeller #PrimeOrPass #BeautyOver40 #MakeupOver40 #MidlifeBeauty

    Game Episode: Laura Geller Plays “Prime or Pass?” | Beauty Trends, Makeup & Midlife
  5. Oct 20

    Laura Geller: Makeup After 40, Aging with Confidence & Redefining Beauty

    What happens when the beauty industry tells women they're past their prime, but one of its most recognizable beauty entrepreneurs refuses to buy into it? This week on The Iconic Midlife, Roxy Manning sits down with legendary makeup artist and beauty entrepreneur Laura Geller, founder of Laura Geller Beauty, for a conversation about aging, confidence, beauty standards, and why women over 40 deserve more than an afterthought from the beauty industry. Laura has spent decades helping women look and feel their best. From building her namesake beauty brand to championing makeup for mature skin, she's helped change the conversation around what beauty looks like as we age. Together, Roxy and Laura explore how our relationship with beauty evolves in midlife, why representation matters, and what it really means to feel confident in your own skin. And, of course, there's plenty of beauty talk along the way. In This Episode:Laura's journey from makeup artist to building an iconic beauty brandWhy women over 40 have historically been overlooked by the beauty industryMakeup tips and techniques for mature skinHow our beauty routines should evolve as we ageThe connection between beauty, confidence, and self-expressionChallenging outdated beauty standards and embracing agingReinvention, entrepreneurship, and finding success at every stage of life About Laura GellerLaura Geller is a renowned makeup artist, entrepreneur, and founder of Laura Geller Beauty. Known for her approachable beauty philosophy and innovative makeup products, Laura has become a leading voice in celebrating women of all ages, particularly those navigating midlife and beyond. Connect with Laura GellerSocial Media: @lauragellerbeauty Website: https://www.laurageller.com Follow The Iconic MidlifeThe Iconic Midlife is hosted by Roxy Manning and features candid conversations about everything that matters to women in midlife, from health and hormones to beauty, relationships, career, and reinvention. Social Media (Show): @theiconicmidlife Social Media (Host): @redcarpetroxy Watch the full episode on YouTube: The Iconic Midlife Enjoying the podcast? Follow The Iconic Midlife on your favorite podcast platform, leave a rating and review, and share this episode with a friend. Your support helps more women discover these conversations. Because beauty doesn't have an expiration date.

    Laura Geller: Makeup After 40, Aging with Confidence & Redefining Beauty
  6. Oct 15 ·  Bonus

    Game Episode: Ashley Byrne: Dealbreaker or I’ll Allow It? | The Animal Lover’s Dating Game

    Would you date someone your dog doesn't like? And is sharing custody of a pet with an ex a relationship red flag? PETA's Ashley Byrne is back on The Iconic Midlife with host Roxy Manning for a hilarious round of Dealbreaker or I'll Allow It?—a dating game where love, relationships, and our four-legged companions collide. After tackling some of the most pressing animal-welfare issues in her full interview, Ashley is showing us her lighter side as Roxy puts her on the spot with a series of dating scenarios involving pets, partners, and some potentially questionable relationship habits. From dogs sleeping in the bed to dating someone who isn't an animal lover, Ashley has to decide: Is it a dealbreaker, or will she allow it? In This Game Episode:Dating someone who loves animals but doesn't want petsDogs in the bedroom—and possibly between you and your partnerWhen your dog doesn't approve of your dateSharing custody of a pet with an exDating someone who doesn't share your views on animal welfareThe relationship habits that might make an animal lover think twice It's a playful look at dating, compatibility, and just how much our relationships with animals influence our relationships with people. And don't miss Ashley's full episode of The Iconic Midlife, where we discuss animal cruelty on L.A.'s Skid Row, New York City's carriage horses, overcrowded animal shelters, and what we can all do to help protect animals. Connect With UsAshley Byrne / PETA: https://www.peta.org The Iconic Midlife: @theiconicmidlife Roxy Manning: @redcarpetroxy Listen, Subscribe & ShareLove this game? Subscribe to The Iconic Midlife on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts. Download the episode, leave a rating and review, and share it with your favorite animal lover. Subscribe to The Iconic Midlife on YouTube for the full video episodes, games, and more candid conversations about life, relationships, and everything in between. And tell us: Would you date someone your dog didn't like?

    Game Episode: Ashley Byrne: Dealbreaker or I’ll Allow It? | The Animal Lover’s Dating Game
  7. Oct 13

    PETA's Ashley Byrne: Animal Cruelty in L.A., NYC Carriage Horses & America’s Shelter Crisis

    What's really happening to animals on Skid Row in Los Angeles—and who's protecting them? From reports of animal abuse and illegal breeding on the streets of Los Angeles to the controversy surrounding New York City's carriage horses and overcrowded animal shelters nationwide, the fight for animal welfare has never felt more urgent. This week on The Iconic Midlife, Roxy Manning sits down with Ashley Byrne, Director of Outreach for PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals), for an eye-opening conversation about animal cruelty, rescue, advocacy, and the changes needed to protect vulnerable animals. As a lifelong animal lover and rescue dog mom, Roxy has always felt a deep connection to animals and a responsibility to speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves. Ashley shares how her passion for animals became her life's work and takes us behind the headlines of some of the most pressing animal welfare issues in America. In This Episode:The Skid Row animal crisis: Reports of abuse, neglect, and illegal breeding in Los Angeles, and whether city officials are doing enough to intervene.NYC carriage horses: The realities of the horse-drawn carriage industry, concerns about working and living conditions, and efforts to ban carriage rides.America's overcrowded shelters: Why shelters are struggling, what contributes to euthanasia, and what needs to change.Adopt, don't shop: The impact of puppy mills, breeding, and consumer demand on animal homelessness.Vegan fashion and cruelty-free beauty: How to make more compassionate choices without sacrificing personal style.Advocacy at every age: How our priorities and willingness to speak up can evolve in midlife.How you can help: Practical ways to support animal rescue, report suspected cruelty, foster, volunteer, and advocate for stronger animal protections. This conversation isn't just about the heartbreaking realities facing animals. It's about accountability, compassion, and understanding how individual choices can contribute to meaningful change. Because loving animals is one thing. Taking action to protect them is another. Connect & Take ActionLearn more about PETA's animal advocacy work: https://www.peta.org Explore animal adoption and fostering opportunities through your local shelters and rescue organizations. Follow The Iconic MidlifeSocial Media (show): @theiconicmidlife Social Media (host): @redcarpetroxy YouTube: The Iconic Midlife Love this conversation? Subscribe to The Iconic Midlife on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, or your favorite podcast app. Download the episode, leave a rating and review, and share it with someone who cares about animals. And don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for the full video interviews and exclusive content. Your voice matters. And so do theirs. Links referenced in this episode: peta.org Companies mentioned in this episode: PETAStarts With One TodayLos Angeles Animal ServicesLos Angeles Police Department (LAPD)Best Friends Animal SocietyCentral Park ConservancyCirque du SoleilGucciStella McCartneyMarie 1998Sans BeastPETA Business FriendsU.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)YouTubeInstagramIconic Midlife

    PETA's Ashley Byrne: Animal Cruelty in L.A., NYC Carriage Horses & America’s Shelter Crisis
  8. Oct 1 ·  Bonus

    Game Episode: Financial Expert Pattie Ehsaei Plays "Rich Move or Broke Move?"

    What counts as financially smart—and what’s just plain cheap? In this bonus game episode, financial expert Pattie Ehsaei is putting her money philosophy to the test with Rich Move or Broke Move? I give Pattie a series of deliberately tricky money, dating and lifestyle scenarios where the “right” answer isn’t always obvious. From living with your parents at 45 to refusing first class, insisting on a prenup, buying a dream house in cash, splitting the check and deciding how much luxury is too much, Pattie has to make the call. And because this is Pattie, she doesn’t just choose a side—she explains exactly why. In this episode:When saving money is smart versus simply cheapWhether living with your parents in midlife can actually be financially savvyFirst-class travel, luxury spending and knowing what’s worth itPrenups, financial independence and protecting your own moneyDating someone with very different financial habitsBuying a home in cash versus keeping your money investedWhy appearances can be completely misleading when it comes to wealthThe money decisions that get much more complicated in midlife Pattie is the author of Never Date a Broke Dude: The Financial Freedom Playbook and is known online as the Duchess of Decorum. Follow Pattie: @duchessofdecorum PattieEhsaei.com If you enjoyed this game, follow The Iconic Midlife wherever you listen to podcasts, subscribe on YouTube, and follow @theiconicmidlife and @redcarpetroxy on social media. And if you haven’t heard Pattie’s full episode yet, go back and listen to: Financial Expert Pattie Ehsaei: Money, Marriage & the Cost of Giving Up Control The Iconic Midlife Hosted by Roxy Manning New episodes weekly.

    Game Episode: Financial Expert Pattie Ehsaei Plays "Rich Move or Broke Move?"
4.9
out of 5
32 Ratings

About

What if midlife isn’t a crisis… but your most powerful chapter yet? The Iconic Midlife is the unapologetic podcast for women 40 and over who are ready to own their next act with boldness, brains, and zero apologies. Hosted by longtime entertainment journalist and red carpet insider Roxy Manning, this weekly show challenges outdated narratives around aging—and delivers real, unfiltered conversations about reinvention, ambition, beauty, perimenopause, menopause, sex, money, wellness, friendship, and everything women were told to stop caring about after 40. Each Tuesday, Roxy sits down with celebrity guests, health experts, industry disruptors, thought leaders, and fearless midlife voices to talk about what it really means to age with power, pleasure, and purpose. Whether you’re navigating hormonal shifts or building your empire, The Iconic Midlife will make you feel bold, seen, and completely unbothered by anyone’s expectations but your own. Midlife isn’t invisible. It’s iconic. New episodes every Tuesday. Bonus game episodes drop on Thursdays. Follow the show now—and stay iconic. Social media: Show: @theiconicmidlife Host: @redcarpetroxy

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