Why Didn't Anyone Tell Me This?
Health, Fitness & Longevity
About
Season 4 Joyce Harper is Professor of Reproductive Science at the Institute for Women’s Health, University College London, author, public speaker, scientist and host of the podcast Why Didn’t Anyone Tell Me This? Together with expert guests and people with lived experience, this podcast offers practical tools to help you build a life of good health and happiness. www.joyceharper.com Instagram, TikTok: @profjoyceharper Facebook: Global Women Connected
Episodes
- Season 4, #11: Dr Nitu Bajekal - Finding Me in Menopause: why lifestyle matters
Gynaecologist Dr Nitu Bajekal shares insights on healthy aging through menopause, emphasizing nutrition, exercise, sleep, mental health, and social connection. She highlights the importance of sustainable lifestyle changes over quick fixes…
- Season 4, #10: Jinty Sheerin and Lou Hockings-Thompson – The Womenkind Collective
Jinty Sheerin and Lou Hockings-Thompson of The Womenkind Collective podcast join the show to discuss women's health, menopause, and relationships. They also reflect on how their podcast started and the importance of open conversations abou…
- Season 4, #9: Breeda Bermingham, Midlife Women Rock
Breeda Bermingham, a former Midwife, discusses menopause and the importance of education for women in midlife. She shares insights on challenging societal taboos and embracing personal growth during this life stage.
- Season 4, #8: Jackie Lynch: Nutrition for a happy menopause
In this episode, Jackie Lynch, a nutritionist and menopause specialist, discusses how nutrition and lifestyle choices can support women through perimenopause and menopause. She explains the importance of evidence-based practices and debunk…
- Season 4, #7: Amber Lort-Phillips: Feel good - your way
This episode features Amber Lort-Phillips, founder of The Big Retreat Festival, a wellbeing and adventure festival. The festival offers various activities for relaxation and well-being, and a study was conducted on festival-goers' experien…
- Season 4, #6: Edele Andaya: Day Rave DJ: The Woman Behind the Decks
Edele Andaya, a DJ specializing in Trance music, shares her two decades of experience, including performances at major venues and her contributions to the UK Trance community. She also discusses the growing popularity of day raves and her…
- Season 4, #5: Joe Baynham: Relax and Reset: Breath Work, Cold Plunges and Saunas
Joe Baynham discusses breathwork, cold exposure, and saunas as tools for mental health. He explains how these practices can help with stress, build resilience, and regulate the nervous system. The conversation also highlights the importanc…
- Season 4, #4: Petra Coveney: Yoga for women’s health
This episode features Petra Coveney, founder of Menopause Yoga. She discusses how yoga and breathwork can support women's health and well-being at different life stages, from adolescence through menopause.
- Season 4, #3: International Women’s Day Special: The Big Swim: Why women swim: Nicky Chisholm, Dr Heather Massey, Jo Moseley, Tash Sones and Professor Joyce Harper
This International Women’s Day special features discussions with Nicky Chisholm, Dr. Heather Massey, Jo Moseley, Tash Sones, and Professor Joyce Harper. They explore why women swim, the benefits of swimming, and the role of community in wa…
- Season 4, #2: Dr Lauren Colenso-Semple: Sifting through social media misinformation about our health
In this episode, Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple discusses how health and fitness misinformation spreads online. She also covers how to judge the quality of evidence in research studies and debunks common myths about fitness and nutrition.
- Season 4, #1: Professor Joyce Harper, Your Joyful Years: let’s make looking after your good health and happiness sexy
Professor Joyce Harper discusses her book "Your Joyful Years" which features insights from 50 women over 50. She also outlines future podcast topics, including reproductive health education and social media health misinformation.
- Season 3, #25 - by Professor David Nutt
Professor David Nutt, a specialist in neuropsychopharmacology, discusses the harms of alcohol based on his research. He highlights that alcohol is a leading risk factor for death and disability, encouraging informed choices about drinking.
- Season 3, #24 - Professor Pauliina Damdimopoulou – How everyday chemicals affect our healt
Professor Pauliina Damdimopoulou, a Professor of Reproductive Biology, explains how everyday chemicals can affect human health and fertility. This episode examines the presence of untested chemicals and the impact of chemicals in common pr…
- Season 3, #23 - Dr Nerys Astbury Why We Gain: Understanding Obesity
Dr. Nerys Astbury, a human nutrition scientist, explains why individuals gain weight and the importance of maintaining a healthy weight. She discusses the impact of obesity on health, dietary interventions, and various approaches to weight…
- Season 3, #22: Professor Partha Kar: Understanding diabetes
Professor Partha Kar discusses diabetes, including Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes. He covers symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and advances in diabetic care.
- Season 3, #21 Amanda Thebe World Menopause Day Special: Navigating the Wild West of Menopause.
This episode of "Why Didn't Anyone Tell Me This?" features Amanda Thebe, a fitness and women's health expert, discussing menopause. The conversation covers hormone therapy, differing views on its use, and the impact of marketing on menopau…
- Season 3, #Episode 20 Professor Neil Gittoes: Understanding osteoporosis
Professor Neil Gittoes explains how bones change with age, risk factors for osteoporosis, and the importance of lifestyle for bone health. He also covers preventative measures and treatments for the disease.
- Season 3, #E19: Dr Sarah McKay - Understanding dementia and Alzheimer’s
In this episode, Dr. Sarah McKay discusses understanding dementia and Alzheimer’s, covering symptoms, risk reduction, and prevention. She also addresses misinformation circulating online about menopause and dementia, emphasizing the import…
- Season 3, #E18 Dr Nerina Ramlakhan: Reclaiming joy
In this episode, Dr. Nerina Ramlakhan discusses reclaiming joy. She explores the definition of joy and its importance for physical and mental well-being,being. This is the final episode in a mini-series on reclaiming joy.
- Season 3, #E17: Debbie Robinson: The Yoga Junkie – Sound baths – vibrations for wellness
This episode features Debbie Robinson, "The Yoga Junkie," who clarifies what a sound bath is, the instruments used, and how sound affects the body and mind. She also discusses her yoga practice, including supporting individuals through men…
- Season 3 #E16 Lou Featherstone: Lu in Luland’s self-love revolution baby
Lou Featherstone, known as Lu in Luland, discusses her mission to empower women through self-love and confidence, drawing from her experiences with body positivity, menopause, and her 'Zero F*s Club' movement. She shares insights from her…
- Season 3 #E15: Harrison Ward - From Addiction to Adventure: The Fell Foodie’s Recipe for Joy
Harrison Ward, the Fell Foodie, shares his personal story of overcoming depression and alcohol addiction. He found a new path through hiking and open-air cooking, becoming an inspiration for others seeking joy and purpose.
- Season 3 #E14: Dr Sophie Messager – 'The beat of your own drum': drumming for women’s health
Dr. Sophie Messager, author of "The Beat of Your Own Drum," discusses how drumming can be used for women's health and empowerment. She shares insights from her background in biology and birth work, explaining how drumming serves as a tool…
- Season 3 #E13: Julia Hollander – Why We Sing
Julia Hollander, a singing therapist, teacher, and performer, discusses her book "Why We Sing," exploring the benefits of singing for well-being. She highlights how singing with others can strengthen social bonds, combat loneliness, and po…
- Season 3 #E12: Di Westaway - Wild women on top: trekking for your health
Di Westaway, founder of Wild Women On Top, discusses the benefits of trekking for women's health and adventure. She shares her story of founding a community that encourages women to engage in outdoor activities and raise money for charity,…
- Season 3 #E11: Deborah Ives – Solo traveller and adventure maker
Deborah Ives, founder of Solo In Style, shares her experience with solo travel after unexpected divorce. Solo in Style connects and supports women in their 50s, 60s, and 70s for solo travel, offering guidance and inspiration for various ty…
- Season 3 #E10: Lucy Ward - What Catherine the Great did with her body
In this episode, Lucy Ward discusses Catherine the Great, focusing on her role in introducing smallpox inoculation in Russia with Dr. Thomas Dimsdale. The conversation highlights the historical intersection of science, politics, and person…
- Season 3 #E9 Dr Lucy Havard – Elizabeth Garrett Anderson: the First Female Doctor
In this episode, Dr. Lucy Havard discusses Elizabeth Garrett Anderson, the first female doctor in the UK. The conversation covers Anderson's challenges in medicine, her establishment of a hospital for women, and her later role as the first…
- Season 3, #E8: Clare Mulley: The Stories of Wartime Heroines
Clare Mulley, an award-winning public historian and author, discusses her work focusing on female experiences during the Second World War. She shares insights into her research and writing process, highlighting the contributions of women l…
- Season 3 #E7 Glenn Stout: Trudy Ederle: Young women and the sea
This episode features author Glenn Stout discussing Gertrude "Trudy" Ederle, the first woman to swim the English Channel in 1926. The conversation also explores the historical context of women's participation in swimming and various pionee…
- Season 3 #E6: Professor Helen O’Connell: The clitoris: The great unknown
Professor Helen O’Connell, a leading researcher in female pelvic anatomy, discusses her groundbreaking work on the structure of the clitoris. Her research, published in 1998 and 2005, revealed the intricate structure of the clitoris, which…
- Season 3, #E5: Dr Pippa Sangster: Understanding the penis and testicles
Dr. Pippa Sangster, a consultant urologist and andrologist, discusses male reproductive health, including the anatomy and function of the penis and testicles, male infertility, erectile dysfunction, and related medical treatments. She also…
- Season 3 #E4: Dr Anita Mitra, the Gynae Geek: Understanding the womb, fallopian tubes and ovaries
This episode features Dr. Anita Mitra, The Gynae Geek, who explains the functions of the womb, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. She discusses the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and how these organs change throughout a woman's life, as well as co…
- Season 3 #E3: Dr Tasha Gandamihardja: Understanding breasts
Dr. Tasha Gandamihardja, a consultant oncoplastic breast surgeon, shares her expert knowledge on breasts. She discusses breast health, common myths, changes throughout the menstrual cycle, puberty, and menopause. Topics include breast stru…
- Season 3 #E2: Dr Aziza Sesay: Understanding the vagina, vulva and cervix
Dr. Aziza Sesay explains the anatomy of the vulva, vagina, and cervix, including their functions, common issues, and how to maintain their health. The discussion covers various aspects from puberty to menopause, addressing common misconcep…
- S3 #E1 Professor Joyce Harper: Nurturing your good health and happiness
Professor Joyce Harper discusses her podcast's expansion, reflecting on past achievements and outlining future projects. She shares personal health goals, including overcoming sugar addiction and practicing silent days, alongside professio…
- S2 #E27: Sheree Hargreaves: Life of POI – Primary ovarian insufficiency
Sheree Hargreaves, diagnosed with primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) at age 15, discusses the condition. She shares her personal experiences and aims to raise awareness about POI.
- S2 #E26: Professor Helena Teede: Understanding polycystic ovary syndrome
Professor Helena Teede, an endocrinologist and Director of Monash Centre for Health Research Implementation, discusses polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). She explains what PCOS is, its symptoms, diagnosis, and various treatment options.
- S2 #E25 Professor Ertan Saridogan: Understanding endometriosis
Professor Ertan Saridogan, a consultant in reproductive medicine, discusses endometriosis, a condition affecting 1 in 10 women. He covers current treatments, research, and the need for improved diagnosis and awareness.
- S2 #E24 Dr Jackie Maybin: Understanding your menstrual cycle and period
Dr. Jackie Maybin, a consultant gynaecologist, discusses menstrual disorders like heavy bleeding, the importance of menstrual health education, and how COVID-19 can impact menstrual health. She emphasizes understanding what constitutes a n…
- S2 #E23: Eleanor Mills: Much more to come
In this episode, Eleanor Mills discusses empowering women, positive aging, and coping with an empty nest. She shares insights on investing in oneself, managing finances, and navigating life transitions. The episode also touches on the conc…
- S2 #E22 Bukky Ayoade: Your Vibrant Midlife
Bukky Ayoade, Principal Consultant at Vibrant Midlife Wellness Practice, discusses supporting women through menopause and healthy aging. She shares insights from her work with NHS England on improving women's health and the National Menopa…
- S2 #E21 Dr Stella Duffy, OBE: What is it like to be postmenopausal?
Dr. Stella Duffy, OBE, shares her experiences with postmenopause and her research in existential psychotherapy. She discusses embracing aging and challenging negative perceptions of life after menopause. Duffy also reflects on her diverse…
- S2 #E20 Rachel Peru: Liberté - Free to Be
This episode features Rachel Peru, a silver-haired curve model and body confidence activist. She talks about her journey in the fashion industry and how she founded Liberté Free to Be to empower women in midlife.
- S2 #E19 Kate Codrington: Second Spring
This episode features Kate Codrington, author of "Second Spring," who discusses menopause as a transformative process. She shares her insights on embracing inner authority, the U-shaped nature of happiness, and the importance of self-care…
- SE, #E18 Jody Day: Childlessness
This episode features Jody Day, founder of Gateway Women, who discusses female involuntary childlessness. She explores reasons women may be childless, such as not finding a partner or infertility, and how to find a meaningful life without…
- S2 #E17 Dr Zeynep Gurtin: Motherhood over 40
Dr. Zeynep Gurtin, a sociologist of reproduction and family life, discusses women’s experiences with infertility, fertility treatments, and having children over age 40. She shares her own fertility journey and explores reasons for the incr…
- S2, #E16: Dr Lucy van de Wiel: Freezing fertility: is egg freezing the answer?
Dr. Lucy van de Wiel, a research associate and lecturer, explains the process of egg freezing, including its success rates and costs. She also discusses further reproductive technologies such as time-lapse embryo imaging and Preimplantatio…
- S2 #E15 Mel Johnson: Solo motherhood
Mel Johnson, The Solo Parenthood Coach, shares her journey and insights into solo motherhood. She discusses her personal experiences, challenges, and the various ways to conceive using donor sperm, along with resources for solo mothers.
- S2 #E14 Professor Tim Childs: How to get pregnant naturally and with assisted conception
Professor Tim Childs, Associate Professor of Reproductive Medicine at the University of Oxford, discusses natural conception and assisted conception. He covers topics such as the fertile window, age and fertility, preparing for pregnancy,…