In this episode I’m joined by author, speaker, and researcher Dr Giselle Goodwin. With over 25 years of entrepreneurial experience and a PhD exploring women, work, and well-being, Giselle shares her expert perspectives on the societal pressures women face, the evolution of gender roles, and practical strategies for reclaiming happiness and balance in midlife. From unpacking the cultural myths around "having it all" to redefining masculinity and supporting women in the workplace, this conversation offers empowering insights for women navigating the complexities of modern life.

Inside this episode:

- The cultural messaging that has shaped women’s perceptions of what they should be and do

- How societal expectations around gender roles have evolved over the last century

- The concept of the "third job" women undertake (beyond work and family) and its impact on health and happiness

- Practical tips for setting boundaries, delegating, and embracing your authentic self

- How to challenge the "good girl" persona and prioritize your well-being

- The importance of engaging men and boys in creating more equitable relationships and societal norms

- Strategies to support working mothers, carers, and those with dual roles in the workplace

- The science of happiness and how behaviours can boost well-being

So can we have it all? [Spoiler alert: probably not, or at least, not all at the same time…]

You can find out more at https://gisellegoodwin.com and take the quiz to discover your next steps: https://dashboard.mailerlite.com/forms/1137296/136174346959848534/share

Follow Giselle on Instagram: @GiselleGoodwinWrites

Find Giselle on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/gisellegoodwin

Buy a copy of Can Women Really Have It All at https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/106877861X?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_4W08MB5PP8KRT2X7XZRV&

If you enjoy the podcast please help us grow by sharing this episode, or writing a review.

You can also find me at www.thetripleshift.org and www.managingthemenpause.com

connect with me at https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmacthomas/

follow along on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/middlingalong_podcast/

or subscribe to my Substack at https://middlingalong.substack.com/

Get ready to bust through nutrition overwhelm with brilliant nutritionist Emma Bardwell as she returns to the podcast to share insights from her latest book, The 30g Plan. If you're feeling a bit ‘headless chicken’ reading all the endless diet advice and trying to juggle balanced eating, Emma’s here to cut through the noise and give you a straightforward plan to boost your fibre, protein, and plant power.

In this episode, Emma shares her top hacks and hints to make healthy eating achievable and enjoyable. Discover the magic of storage p*rn—yes, beautiful food prep that motivates you! Learn how to tweak and swap ingredients to keep meals exciting, even if you're cooking for fussier family members.

Emma emphasizes that imperfection is okay: it's what we do most of the time that truly counts. If aiming for three perfect meals a day feels daunting, start small: focus on getting a nutritious breakfast right, and build from there.

Plus, Emma reveals her favourite quick recipes and lunchtime ideas, along with her top time-saving hacks, shortcuts, and must-have gadgets that make healthy cooking a breeze—all designed to fit into busy, overwhelmed schedules and ready in 30 minutes or less!

And don’t miss her tip on Myota, a gentle fibre supplement that supports gut health without fuss.

Whether you're looking to overhaul your diet or just find simple ways to eat better without the stress, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you thrive.

Tune in and get inspired to make nourishing, fuss-free meals part of your everyday life!

If you enjoy the podcast please help us grow by sharing this episode, or writing a review.

You can also find me at http://www.thetripleshift.org

connect with me at https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmacthomas/

follow along on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/middlingalong_podcast/

or subscribe to my Substack at https://middlingalong.substack.com/

Join us for a gorgeous conversation with writer and passionate cold water swimmer Sara Barnes.

Over the past decade, Sara’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. From barely being able to walk in her fifties to reclaiming an active, outdoor life amidst the stunning landscapes of the Lake District, she’s navigated major surgeries, embarked on solo campervan adventures through Scotland, and published not one but two compelling books: The Cold Fix and her debut novel, The Winter of Our Lives.

In this episode, Sara shares her transformative story of resilience, discovery, and connection. Discover how cold water swimming became a powerful tool for overcoming anxiety and reconnecting with nature—and yourself. She reveals creative ways to get your own "Cold Fix," the importance of community, and how immersing in nature can shift your perspective on aging, confidence, and what’s possible.

Sara also discusses her solo adventures, including a campervan journey that taught her invaluable lessons about adapting, slowing down, and embracing the present. Plus, she explores her dream of moving to France and how health scares helped her realize what truly matters—less stuff, more experience, and the freedom of just being.

Whether you're a seasoned swimmer or curious about taking the plunge for the first time, Sara’s insights will inspire you to step outside your comfort zone, reconnect with nature, and discover your own limits and capabilities.

You can find Sara and her beautiful images of wild swimming at https://www.instagram.com/bumblebarnes/?hl=en

Sara’s books:

The Cold Fix (Vertebrate Adventure Books, 2022)

The Winter of Our Lives (HarperCollins, 2023)

(and for the interview with Siobhan Daniels I mention in this episode, check out: https://middlingalong.com/episodes/middling-along-13-siobhan-daniels-on-the-retirement-rebellion-and-her-solo-vanlife-travels-around-the-uk/)

If you enjoy the podcast please help us grow by sharing this episode, or writing a review.

You can also find me at www.thetripleshift.org

connect with me at https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmacthomas/

follow along on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/middlingalong_podcast/

or subscribe to my Substack at https://middlingalong.substack.com/