Mad With The Menopause

In today’s episode, I am delighted to welcome founder of ‘Menopause and Cancer’, Dani Binnington.

We are diving into a vital yet often overlooked intersection of women’s health: the journey of menopause after cancer.  Dani turned her own life-altering cancer diagnosis at age, just 33 into a mission to ensure no survivor feels like part of a 'forgotten tribe.'

Dani is the founder of the UK’s only non-profit dedicated specifically to this cause, the host of the globally top-ranked The Menopause and Cancer Podcast, and the author of the #1 bestselling book, Navigating Menopause After Cancer.

A passionate advocate, impactful speaker, and a self-described ‘thinking partner’ for women navigating the medical system, Dani brings both evidence-based strategies and deep personal compassion to the table.

 

KEY TAKE AWAYS:

00:00 - Introduction to Dani Binnington

00:39 - Personal Journey Through Cancer and Menopause

03:22 - Discovery of Breast Cancer

05:25 -Navigating Medical Menopause

10:45 - Finding Empowerment Through Research

13:43 - Establishing Support for Others

15:55 -The Menopause and Cancer Podcast

16:36 -The Importance of Wellbeing

17:14 -Creating a Community for Support

18:09 -Menopause and Cancer: A Unique Challenge

20:15 -Understanding Long-Term Symptoms

23:23 -Hormone Replacement Therapy: Access and Awareness

25:35 -Resources and Support for Women

26:56 -The Journey of Writing a Book

29:08 -Advice for Patients and Supporters

 

USEFUL RESOURCES:

Instagram: @dani_binnington

Podcast:  https://menopauseandcancer.org/podcast/

Book:  https://menopauseandcancer.org/book/

 

ABOUT THE HOST:

Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources, and the Third Sector.

This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.

Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.

 

CONTACT ME:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/

E-mail:  [email protected]

In today’s episode, I am speaking with Emma Neville, Founder of the online community ‘This is me’.

Emma experienced an early menopause, aged just 40, after being diagnosed with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI).

Receiving this diagnosis encouraged Emma to research the topic and to gain an understanding of the phases of menopause. Subsequently, Emma then studied to become a menopause coach.

Emma started an online community 'This is Me’ to share her story and to encourage everyone to talk about menopause and ultimately to change the rhetoric.

 

KEY TAKE AWAYS:

00:00 - Introduction and Initial Thoughts

00:03 -Understanding Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI)

02:48 - Recognizing the Signs and Seeking Help

06:06 - The Emotional Impact of Diagnosis

11:24 - Exploring Causes and Awareness of POI

13:17 - Building a Supportive Community

18:18 - Building Connections Through 'This is Me'

19:47 - The Emotional Journey of Sharing Stories

21:33 - Celebrating Community and Empowerment

24:04 - Embracing Change and Personal Growth

28:41 - Lifestyle Changes After Diagnosis

32:03 - Finding Balance and Self-Care Strategies

33:53 - Encouragement for Women: You're Not Alone

 

USEFUL RESOURCES:

Instagram: @emmanevillethisisme

 

ABOUT THE HOST:

Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources, and the Third Sector.

This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.

Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.

 

CONTACT ME:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/

E-mail:  [email protected]

In today’s episode, Professor Pooja Saini, professor at Liverpool John Moores University discusses with us, the link between our hormones and our mental health.

 

KEY TAKE AWAYS:

Understanding Emotional Symptoms of Menopause

Research Insights on Menopause and Suicide

The Role of Hormones in Mental Health

Challenges in Medical Diagnosis and Treatment

Personal Experiences with HRT

Research Findings on HRT and Mental Health

Qualitative Insights from Women on Menopause

The Importance of Choice in HRT

Training Gaps in Medical Professionals

Support Systems for Suicidal Individuals

Crisis Support and Community Resources

Stigma and the Importance of Open Conversations

Advocacy for Women in Mental Health

Self-Care and Holistic Approaches

Practical Strategies for Mental Wellbeing

Community Engagement and Finding Purpose

Final Thoughts on Seeking Help and Support

 

USEFUL RESOURCES:

 

https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/

 

https://hubofhope.co.uk/

 

Instagram:  @poojauk

ABOUT THE HOST:

Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources, and the Third Sector.

This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.

Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.

 

CONTACT ME:

 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/

E-mail:  [email protected]

In today’s episode, Anél talks briefly about some of the symptoms that can be expected as we enter Perimenopause.

 

KEY TAKE AWAYS:

Understanding Perimenopause

Navigating the Challenges:  Symptoms and Solutions

 

USEFUL RESOURCES:

Symptom checker:  https://themenopausecharity.org/information-and-support/symptoms/menopause-symptom-checker/ 

 

ABOUT THE HOST:

Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources, and the Third Sector.

This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.

Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.

 

CONTACT ME:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/

E-mail:  [email protected]

Instagram: @anel.quilliam

 

DISCLAIMER: 

The views of mine and those of my guests are just that. I therefore urge you to take advise from your medical practitioner, who knows your medical history and can therefore provide advice specific to your needs.

 

 

 

 

Tile Art by:  Shawn Bennett (Rockingham Media CIC)

Dr. Helen Wall is a Senior GP Partner, GP Trainer in Bolton, and runs an NHS menopause clinic with a particular interest in the crossover of ADHD and hormones, including why symptoms of ADHD often magnify during perimenopause and menopause.

 

Dr. Helen is dedicated to helping women who are being diagnosed with ADHD later in life, and those who feel their hormonal symptoms are dismissed or misdiagnosed as anxiety or mood disorders.

 

Look out for Dr. Helen’s forthcoming book, (out in 2026) Menopause and ADHD, explores this intersection.

 

Dr. Wall is well-known as the resident GP on BBC Breakfast and a columnist for Woman magazine.

 

KEY TAKE AWAYS:

Understanding ADHD:  A Neurodevelopmental Disorder

The Impact of Perimenopause on ADHD Symptoms

Recognising ADHD Symptoms in Women

The Positive Aspects of ADHD

Navigating the Diagnosis Process of ADHD

Navigating GP Consultation for ADHD

Practical Steps for Managing ADHD

Medication and Its Role in ADHD Management

Supporting Women with ADHD and Menopause

Resources and Community Support for ADHD

 

 

USEFUL RESOURCES:

Website:  https://adhduk.co.uk/

Good Read:  The ADHD Women’s Wellbeing Toolkit by Kate Moryoussef

Instagram:  @doctorhelenwall

Website:  https://tvhealthdoctor.com/

 

ABOUT THE HOST:

Anel’s passion to help others, is evident from her professional life, having worked extensively within Recruitment, Human Resources, and the Third Sector.

This passion is predominately the inspiration for her podcast.

Blindsided by the perimenopause, when it took hold with a vengeance at the start of Lockdown, Anél is fiercely passionate about raising more awareness of the perimenopause, menopause and post menopause, and will tackle many taboo subjects head on, as she is a strong believer in ‘knowledge is power’.

 

CONTACT ME:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7252979209604673536/

E-mail:  [email protected]

Instagram: @anel.quilliam

 

DISCLAIMER: 

The views of mine and those of my guests are just that. I therefore urge you to take advise from your medical practitioner, who knows your medical history and can therefore provide advice specific to your needs.

 

 

 

Tile Art by:  Shawn Bennett (Rockingham Media CIC)