This episode focussed on debunking the narrative that claims menopause is a deficiency that requires fixing with oestrogen, instead of a normal, healthy life event that ushers us into a vibrant, engaged maturity.  I feel that if menopause is asking us to love ourselves better, to deepen our relationship to ourselves, then HRT can really help with that, allowing us to put ourselves first. But though HRT can be a lifesaver, when it’s used for a long time to continue to push through when our resources are already depleted, without making any lifestyle changes, it is just saving up problems for later. Rachel Lankester, midlife disruptor, author of Magnificent Midlife,  founder of The Mutton Club and host of Magnificent Midlife podcast explores:The faulty menopause research that’s endlessly repeatedWhat symptoms HRT is helpful forThe latest research into HRT and dementiaMenopause and mental healthWhy language mattersRachel’s new project MenoClarity that’s offers free-to-access clear information and evidence-based research Rachel’s website is https://magnificentmidlife.com/ and you can find her book Magnificent Midlife: Transform Your Middle Years, Menopause and Beyond at all good bookshops. Her podcast, also called Magnificent Midlife is also available on all your favourite platforms.  You can find her on Instagram as @magnificentmidlifeMenoClarity website is: https://menoclarity.com/Here are some links we refer to:Low-down on the BUPA workplace research: https://themuttonclub.com/900000-women-have-left-work-menopause/NICE guidelines for HRT: https://www.nice.org.uk/guidance/NG23Study on dementia in nuns: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9127971/ Kate's Second Cycle role models Pinterest board: https://www.pinterest.co.uk/KateCodrington/second-spring-summer-inspiration/ Low-down on suicide stats: https://themuttonclub.com/menopause-and-suicide-do-the-stats-add-up/Tania Elfersy's website The Wiser Woman is https://www.thewiserwoman.com/Twyla Tharp on aging https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DfNd8a6eDDoMore information about Katehttps://www.katecodrington.co.uk/Instagram @kate_codringtonSecond Spring: the self-care guide to menopause is available from your favourite bookshopMusicTrust Me (instrumental) by RYYZNCreative Commons — Attribution 3.0 Unported — CC BY 3.0Free Download / StreamMusic promoted by Audio LibraryArtworkKate's portrait by Lori Fitzdoodles