Welcome to episode 7 of the Fifty 4Wards podcast. We are thrilled to welcome our very first guest, Kathie Cooke, a menopause specialist with years of expertise in supporting women through this transformative stage of life.

Join us as we dive deep into the realities of menopause and perimenopause, exploring the wide range of symptoms women experience—from fatigue and brain fog to emotional changes and sleep disturbances. Kathie sheds light on the role of HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy), its benefits, misconceptions, and alternatives, while also addressing common concerns like high blood pressure, cancer risks, and long-term use.

We also discuss the importance of raising awareness, the evolving landscape of menopause treatments, and the need for better education for healthcare professionals and partners alike. Plus, Kathie shares practical tips for managing symptoms and preparing for menopause with self-care, exercise, and mindfulness.

Whether you're navigating menopause yourself, supporting a loved one, or simply curious to learn more, this episode is packed with valuable information and empowering advice.

📍 Guest Details: Kathie Cooke, Menopause Specialist Find her https://menopause-expert-kathie-cooke.co.uk/ or search 'Kathie Cooke Menopause' online.

🎧 Tune in now on Spotify and follow us on Instagram for more updates and resources!

#Menopause #Perimenopause #HRT #Fifty4Forwards #Podcast #WomensHealth #Liverpool #bestfriends

Dive deep into the powerful world of adoption with Diane and Bev as they welcome Bev, who courageously shares her personal adoption story. In this emotional episode, Bev opens up about being adopted at just 7 weeks old in Australia, the heartbreak of losing her adoptive mother, and the trauma she faced in foster care after her adoptive father returned to the UK. Hear firsthand insights into the challenges of sibling separation in adoption and foster care, and how these experiences shaped Bev’s sense of identity and belonging.

Bev’s journey doesn’t end there—listen as she recounts her search for her birth mother, the emotional complexities of their reunion, and the family secrets that surfaced along the way. The conversation also highlights the growing Movement for An Adoption Apology, which seeks government acknowledgment and an official apology for the trauma caused by past adoption practices.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in real adoption stories, foster care experiences, family reunions, and the ongoing fight for justice and healing within the adoption community.

#Liverpool #Adoption #Reallife #fiftyforwardspodcast

Welcome to another episode of the Fifty Forwards Podcast!

Join Bev and Diane as they dive into the sometimes bewildering—world of aging. Are you flaunting those laugh lines with pride, or are you more inclined to give your youthful glow a little surgical nudge? Well, you're not alone! With 45% of cosmetic procedures happening in the 40-54 age bracket, you might just be in good company.

But aging isn't just skin-deep. Bev and Diane navigate the minefield of job interviews, where your qualifications may as well come with a neon sign flashing "Guess My Age!" And let's not forget about the silver foxes of the world, strutting their salt and pepper locks like it's a fashion statement, while women turning their tresses into silver locks are left pondering if they should embrace the 'Granny Chic' trend.

Can women actually win in this aging game?

Ever felt unheard while battling chronic back pain? In this eye-opening episode, Bev and Diane explores the hidden aftermath of epidurals during childbirth and how dismissive healthcare experiences leave countless women struggling.

From hydrotherapy and acupuncture to paying privately for an overdue MRI, they uncover the emotional and physical toll of seeking relief. Whether it's collapsing in the workplace or being signed off work due to pain, this episode breaks the silence on how chronic back issues can erode confidence and mental health — no matter your fitness level.

Listen in to hear real talk about alternative treatments, NHS wait times, and the long-term impact pain has on everyday life. Because back pain isn’t just physical — it’s personal.

In this episode of the Fifty Forwards Podcast, we delve into the fascinating dynamics of friendships. How do friendships evolve over time, with some bonds strengthening and others fading away? Are male friendships inherently different due to societal pressures to maintain a "macho" facade, while women tend to share and invest deeply in their connections?

Diane and Bev also examine the societal perceptions of male and female friendships. Can a friendship between a man and a woman truly be platonic, or is it often misunderstood? Join us as we explore these compelling questions and more, offering insights into the complex world of relationships.

Welcome to episode 2 of the Fifty 4Wards podcast, where our fabulous hosts dive headfirst into the whirlwind world of menopause! This week, it's all about juggling hot flashes, teenage angst, and the chaos of caring for unwell parents—because who doesn’t love a good challenge?

Listen in as Diane & Bev explore the rollercoaster ride of emotions: laughing one minute, crying the next, and occasionally wondering if you’re perimenopausal or already deep in the menopause meltdown. Our hosts share their hilarious and heartfelt personal stories that will have you nodding along in empathy (or maybe just laughing at the absurdity).

Whilst dishing out the scoop on tried and true menopause treatments the girls celebrate the fact that employers are finally catching on to the impact of menopause on women. It’s about time right!

Whether you’re navigating this stage yourself or just curious about the menopausal mysteries, this episode is a must-listen! Perfect for those searching for laughter, support, and a sprinkle of sanity in the midst of hormonal chaos!

Welcome to Episode 1 of the Fifty 4Wards Podcast! Join Bev and Diane in the studio on International Women's Day as they embark on their exciting new journey. In this inaugural episode, they discuss the joys and challenges of being mothers and the heartbreak of empty nest syndrome.

Bev and Diane share personal stories on how life transforms from having young children who rely on you for everything to suddenly facing the quiet of an empty home. They explore the emotions of this transition and discuss where to find support during this poignant time.

For parents feeling disconnected from their adult children, Bev and Diane offer heartfelt advice on mending and nurturing these crucial relationships. Whether you're looking to rekindle a bond or seeking understanding, their insights provide comfort and guidance.

Hi everyone, welcome to our new podcast Fifty 4Wards !

We're Diane and Bev, two Liverpool 50 somethings who have decided to create a podcast sharing our stories that will either leave you laughing or crying ! We're 2 best friends who support each other through thick and thin and hope to help others through our shared experiences.

Every other week we will be publishing a brand new episode, so don't forget to give us a follow and switch on your notifications so you don't miss a thing !