Episode Description

In this episode, I am joined by Cassandra Kalpaxis, a family lawyer, domestic violence educator, and author – and we talk about financial independence for women and the concept of a ‘Dignified Divorce’.

Now, every woman needs to listen to this episode, even if things in the relationship arena are ‘tickety-boo’ because this episode is all about protecting yourself - just in case. Cassandra explains the importance of financial knowledge for women, the importance of understanding one’s rights and the concept of escape funds.

She outlines how to have an amicable separation, how to achieve a ‘Dignified Divorce’ and how to successfully co-parent. She is also a big fan of ‘pre-nups’ – so listen in to hear why.

In addition to being a lawyer, Cassandra is also a passionate Domestic Violence advocate. Her insights into the various forms of coercive control and the ‘generational lens’ on this is really compelling.

This is a really thought-provoking interview that I guarantee you’ll learn a lot from. Cassandra’s practical advice and empowering messages are all about women claiming their independence and make informed decisions about their lives and relationships.

Cassandra’s book Dignified Divorce is available for sale here. As she says – it’s cheaper than a consultation!

Alex xx

Resources

Dignified Divorce – available here.

The Domestic Violence Legal Service – a specialist free legal service for women experiencing domestic and family violence in New South Wales. There are similar services available in every state in Australia.

Connect with Cassandra

Instagram: @cassandrakalpaxis

Website: calpaxuslegal.com.au

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dignified Divorce

01:55 Cassandra's Journey: From Lawyer to Author

05:20 Navigating Economic Vulnerability in Relationships

08:46 Understanding Financial Infidelity and Abuse

10:40 The Importance of Escape Funds

14:23 Creating a Dignified Divorce

18:06 The Role of Communication in Separation

22:40 Navigating Conflict Resolution in Relationships

26:24 Understanding Prenuptial Agreements

31:20 Educating on Domestic Violence

39:33 Exiting Unhealthy Relationships

42:40 Empowerment and Financial Independence

PS - Want More?

You can find more from The Grown-Up Girls Report here:

https://www.facebook.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/

https://www.instagram.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/

https://www.tiktok.com/@thegrownupgirlsreport

PPS – a small commission will be made if you choose to purchase the book through the link above.

Connect with Cassandra

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cassandrakalpaxis/

Website: calpaxuslegal.com.au

Resources

Dignified Divorce – available here.

The Domestic Violence Legal Service – a specialist free legal service for women experiencing domestic and family violence in New South Wales. There are similar services available in every state in Australia.

Connect with Cassandra

Instagram: @cassandrakalpaxis

Website: calpaxuslegal.com.au

Episode Description

In this episode, I’m chatting with Aussie journalist and health advocate Shelly Horton about her perimenopause journey and her new book ‘I’m Your Peri Godmother’. Shelly’s honest and candid recount of her challenges and struggles will confirm that you are absolutely not navigating this journey alone. And I guarantee it will make you both laugh and cry!

Shelly details her unexpected health complications and her mental health struggles – struggles that I also experienced. She is passionate about the need for further awareness and education about women's health issues in the workplace and is a big advocate for a shift in how society views midlife women. Hear, hear!!!

And while we discuss the challenges, we also celebrate the bonuses that the menopause journey can bring – zest!!

So, tune in, join the conversation – I guarantee that it will fill your tank!!

Shelly’s book is out now. You can buy it here.

Lots of love

Alex x

Keywords

perimenopause, mental health, women's health, advocacy, workplace awareness, relationships, self-care, empowerment, menopause, health education

Takeaways

· Waking up in the ICU was a shocking experience for Shelly.

· Perimenopause can lead to unexpected mental health challenges.

· Women often minimise their health issues and apologize for their struggles.

· Support from family and friends is crucial during health crises.

· Advocacy for women's health is essential in the workplace.

· Education about perimenopause can help women manage their symptoms better.

· Menopausal zest is about embracing life and prioritizing self-care.

· Women should not feel invisible during midlife; they have so much to offer.

· It's important to seek help and not suffer in silence.

· Finding the right support and resources can lead to empowerment.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Shelley Horton

01:34 Shelley's ICU Experience and Health Journey

09:18 Women’s Apologies and Humor in Crisis

11:56 The Impact of Perimenopause on Confidence

15:43 Mental Health and Perimenopausal Depression

23:12 Conversations with Family about Mental Health

24:07 Bonding Through Shared Stories

26:59 Navigating Family Dynamics and Mental Health

28:41 The Role of Partners in Mental Health

31:45 Understanding Menopause Symptoms

36:48 Sleep and Its Impact on Well-being

40:38 Advocacy for Women in the Workforce

43:12 Raising Awareness in the Workplace

45:27 Menopause Education and Support

46:48 The Business Case for Supporting Women

49:09 Personal Health Journeys and Mindset

53:25 Embracing Menopausal Zest

53:38 Menopausal Zest

57:14 The Launch of 'I'm Your Peri Godmother'

PS - Want More?

You can find more from The Grown-Up Girls Report here:

https://www.facebook.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/

https://www.instagram.com/thegrownupgirlsreport/reels/?__d=1%2F

https://www.tiktok.com/@thegrownupgirlsreport

PPS – a small commission will be made if you choose to purchase the book through the link above.

Episode Description

In this episode, we’re workshopping perimenopause and menopause with one of the best GPs in Sydney (my GP) Dr Nindhi Ahilan. Nindhi’s incredible guidance through my murky menopause journey is the reason why I have got my life back!

So, with Nindhi’s help, we delve into the science behind perimenopause and menopause, discuss HRT, alternative treatments and supplements that might be worth considering. Nindhi also share some great resources for us too!

Now, if your bloke is struggling to understand what’s going on in your world, this would be the perfect listen for him! It will get him on board!!

So, tune in and I promise you’ll come away with some great to-do list – I even added to mine after recording this!

Lots of love

Alex x

Keywords

menopause, perimenopause, hormonal changes, HRT, symptoms, women's health, estrogen, progesterone, natural remedies, health tips

Takeaways

· Menopause is defined as the absence of periods for 12 months.

· Perimenopause can last between 2 to 10 years before menopause.

· Estrogen and progesterone play crucial roles in women's health.

· Common symptoms include hot flushes, sleep disturbances, and mood changes.

· HRT can improve quality of life but has associated risks.

· Healthy lifestyle choices can mitigate menopausal symptoms.

· Alternative remedies include phytoestrogens and anti-inflammatory diets.

· Menopause is a unique opportunity for personal reinvention.

· Partners should educate themselves about menopause to provide support.

· Women should trust their intuition and prioritize self-care during menopause.

Resources

The Australasian Menopause Society

Dr Louise Newson

Dr Ginni Mansberg

How To Thrive in Menopause by Dr Ginni Mansberg

The Menopause Brain by Lisa Mosconi

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Menopause and Perimenopause

01:59 Understanding Menopause: Definitions and Differences

03:38 Is Perimenopause a New Concept?

04:27 The Role of Estrogen and Progesterone

07:22 Common Symptoms of Menopause

11:31 Identifying Menopause Symptoms vs. Other Conditions

13:37 Understanding HRT - the Risks & Benefits

17:13 HRT: Timing and Individual Considerations

20:23 Quality of Life and Preventative Health in Menopause

20:54 Alternatives Treatments to HRT

24:02 Understanding Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Options

24:47 Natural Supplements for Menopausal Symptoms

26:00 Addressing Vaginal Health and Libido Issues

27:49 Managing Urinary Symptoms and Anxiety

29:43 Cognitive Health and Skin Care During Menopause

31:07 Hair Loss and Thinning: Causes and Solutions

32:17 Advice for Blokes To Help Support Their Partners in Menopause

33:53 Reframing Menopause: A Time for Reinvention

37:10 Menopause Resources