Shows
The ChangeS4 Ep 6: The Power of Play: How Sarah MacDonald is Reinventing Midlife (and Writing a Musical!)Join Laura and Cath for an incredibly honest chat with the amazing Sarah MacDonald –a voice you'll know from ABC Sydney and Triple J! Sarah peels back the curtain on her incredibly full life, candidly sharing how she balances being a mum to young adults, a wife, and a dedicated caregiver to aging parents, illuminating the demands of the "sandwich generation."Sarah dives into her exhilarating "year of play," exploring new career paths after a significant professional shift. A true Gemini, she thrives on change, and you'll love hearing about her exciting new venture: wr...2025-08-0645 minThe ChangeS4 Ep 5: Beyond the Mic: Hannah Vanderheide on AI, Illness, and Creative ResilienceWe have an absolutely unmissable conversation with the phenomenal Hannah Vanderheide! Laura and Cath sit down with this multi-talented force – an incredible actor, writer, and voice artist – as she shares her story. Hannah bravely shares the seismic shifts and personal challenges she faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, giving us an intimate look at how it reshaped her creative path. She also speaks candidly about her incredibly resilient health journey, navigating complex diagnoses like Graves' and Addison's disease while fiercely pursuing her passions.The discussion then dives into the hot-button topic...2025-07-3046 minThe ChangeS4 Ep 4: Sarah Megginson on how menopause impacts our financesLaura and Cathy chat to money expert and writer Sarah Megginson to discuss the significant financial challenges women face, particularly in midlife. They discuss the impact of the gender pay gap, unconscious bias, and the effects of peri and menopause on income. Sarah emphasises the importance of financial education and awareness, sharing practical tips for managing finances and advocating for better support systems for families. The discussion also touches on Sarah’s personal experience acting as a surrogate for Lisa Messenger and the positive and surprising impact it has had...2025-07-2357 minThe ChangeS4 Ep 3: The unexpected joy of caring for an ageing parentCathy and Laura chat to Claire Mason who has recently been through a lot of change. Claire shares her transformative journey of sobriety, the challenges and joys of caring for her ageing father, and her aspirations for the future beyond her career as a flight attendant.She discusses the importance of self-love and acceptance, especially during life changes such as perimenopause. Claire emphasises the beauty in caring for aging parents - her dad’s viral Reel - and the need for open conversations about end-of-life experiences. About Claire: Claire Mas...2025-07-1638 minThe ChangeS4 Ep 2: Dr. Fatima Khan on why hormone health is mental healthIn this enlightening conversation with Cathy and Laura, Dr. Fatima Khan shares her extensive knowledge on women's health, focusing on the transitions of puberty, pregnancy and in particular perimenopause, and menopause. She emphasizes the importance of understanding hormonal changes and their impact on mental health, advocating for a holistic approach that includes nutrition, stress management, and self-care. Dr. Khan discusses the societal pressures women face and the need for self-compassion and connection with others. She provides practical strategies for navigating these life stages, encouraging women to prioritise their well-being an...2025-07-0951 minThe ChangeS4 Ep 1: When too much change breaks us!Join Cathy and Laura as they open up about unexpected curveballs life threw their way leading up to Season Four. From grappling with unexpected evacuations to navigating the depths of mental health struggles. They lay bare the raw, emotional toll of profound change. Discover why leaning on community support became their lifeline and how, even in our hyper-connected world, finding genuine balance is more crucial than ever. This episode isn't just a conversation; it's a testament to resilience and the power of connection in the face of unseen battles.Hosts:Cathy O’Br...2025-07-0233 minThe ChangeBurnt Out in Midlife? Sophie’s survival guide - Cathy & Laura have a powerful chat with Sophie.This minisode is an edit from our full interview with Sophie Scott from Season 3 Episode 2Catch the best bits from our powerful chat with Sophie Scott OAM! Hear her firsthand experience surviving burnout after years as a medical reporter and her crucial advice on self-care and building healthy habits in midlife.Links for more about Sophie Scott OAM:Website YouTubeInstagram 2024 ShowreelBuy Sophie’s book 'Beat High Functioning Anxiety'Hosts:Cath...2025-06-2512 minThe Change‘My marriage ended and I was just so horny’ - Jayne tells Cathy & Laura about “finding herself” in her midlife.This minisode is an edit from our full interview with Jayne McCartney from Season 3 Episode 6 Enjoy the best moments from Cath and Laura's conversation with sexologist Jayne McCartney. This minisode touches on the importance of communication at all life stages, the variations in midlife sexuality, and Jayne's passionate advocacy for better support during milestones like menopause.With thanks to Jayne McCartney. Jayne McCartney’s instagram Jayne McCartney website Mentions: Come As You Are by Dr. Emily MetkoskiWelcome to Sex by...2025-06-1912 minThe Change“I went shopping for makeup aged 40 and felt invisible” Amanda talks to Laura & Cathy about why she became your Ageless beauty bestie.This minisode is an edit from our full interview with Amanda Ramsay from Season 3 Episode 4 Relive some of the best moments from our chat with Amanda Ramsay, your "ageless beauty bestie" and makeup artist specializing in women over 40. This minisode captures Amanda's inspiring career journey in the beauty industry and dives into her key insights. Hear about the pivotal moment that shifted her perspective on midlife makeup, even after years in the business. Plus, get a taste of her encouraging advice on experimenting with your look and the uplifting power of simple beauty routines....2025-06-1109 minThe Change“Writing a book with twin toddlers was a dumpster fire!’ - Kerryn describes writing her second bookThis minisode is an edit from our full interview with Kerryn Mayne from Season 3 Episode 9 Cathy and Laura catch up with the inspiring Kerryn Mayne. We discuss the realities of balancing life as a police officer, mother of four (including twins!), and author. Hear Kerryn's insights on the challenges and her strategies for finding time to write.With thanks to Kerryn Mayne. Kerryn Mayne’s instagram Kerryn Mayne websiteHosts:Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/Laura Jackel https...2025-06-0414 minThe ChangeChange Your Kryptonite? Tracey shares her secrets on embracing change with Laura and CathyThis minisode is an edit from our full interview with Tracey Williams from Season 1 Episode 2Why do some people thrive on change while others struggle? Get the key insights from Cathy and Laura's conversation with clinical psychologist Tracey Williams. Discover the psychology behind our reactions to change and learn how to "flip the script" – even in tough times.Hosts:Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/Audio Producer: Samantha Thomas ...2025-05-2814 minThe Change‘I had a mental breakdown’ How Kat knew she was in perimenopauseThis minisode is an edit from our full interview with Kat Taylor from Season 3 Episode 8.Kat Taylor, Season 2 winner of Ch9’s Parental Guidance sits down with Cath and Laura to have a hilarious chat about the roller coaster of peri/menopause, parenting and everything in between. Kat talks about the need for safe spaces for women to share their experiences and support each other. We talk about Kat’s experience with perimenopause and the challenges she has faced. Including the emotional breakdown she had while searching for a...2025-05-2113 minThe Change‘No more strippers’ Anna launched a male escort agencyThis minisode is an edit from our full interview with Anna Grosman from Season 2 Episode 5.This week Cathy and Laura chat about female desire, male escorts and shame with Anna Grosman. Fifty-two-year-old Anna Grosman, is an accomplished entrepreneur with a passion for empowering women. As one of the founders of Aphrodisiac Male Escorts which thrived from 2012 – 2018, Anna is now the founder and owner of HerConfidant - an elite male escort agency for women. Warm, nurturing and no-nonsense, Anna advocates for female sexuality without stigma and shame. In fact...2025-05-1412 minThe Change‘People tell me I’m too old to wear that. I disagree.’This minisode is an edit from our full interview Faye and Lauren Browne from Season 3 Episode 3.Faye and Lauren Browne, founders of Motto Fashions, discuss their journey in the fashion industry and the importance of feeling confident and empowered through fashion. They emphasise the need to break free from societal expectations and embrace personal style at any age. At age 70, Motto founder Faye shares how she still loves to experiment and have fun with her clothes, inspiring and encouraging women around Australia to feel good and wear what they love.2025-05-0713 minThe ChangeSteph de Sousa on the secret to success on MasterchefThis minisode is an edit from our full interview with Steph De Sousa from Season 3 Episode 11.Steph, a former contestant on MasterChef, discusses her experience on the show and her journey to becoming a successful social media influencer. Cath and Laura ask Steph all the pervy questions about the audition process for MasterChef, her favourite Aldi centre aisle purchase and the lessons she learned about being her authentic self. Steph explains how she has built a large following on social media by creating relatable and easy-to-follow cooking co...2025-04-3009 minThe ChangeGeorgia Van Cuylenburg tells her side of the storyThis minisode is an edit from our full interview with Georgia Van Cuylenburg from Season 2 episode 9Trigger Warning: Listener discretion is advised. This episode discusses eating disorders, child sexual violence, mental health, and trauma. If you find yourself in need of support please see the support listed at the end of the show notes.Georgia Van Cuylenburg, actor, podcaster and activist, knows a thing or two about resilience. While her story and name may be familiar, it’s not because of her words or work. Instead it is...2025-04-2312 minThe ChangeSummer Series Episode 4: Empowerment in Midlife: Women RisingIn our last episode for the Summer Series we discuss the significance of Australia Day, reflecting on its implications for Indigenous communities and the discomfort surrounding the holiday.
We celebrate the Australian of the Year Awards, highlighting individuals who have made significant contributions to society.
Laura shares a fabulous Guardian article with an extract from Naomi Watt’s book “Dare I Say It”. We explore our thoughts on the drive for personal growth and ambition balanced with retirement aspirations.
We round out our Summer Series discussing Cath’s personal reflection on my mental health jour...2025-01-3138 minThe ChangeSummer Series Episode 3: Feminine energy and are we in a ‘doom loop’?Cathy and Laura talk about the current state of the world and the phenomenon some are referring h to as a ‘doom loop’. We unpack what that is and why we think the cause is all wrong.
We also discuss a brilliant article about the tech bros and their friends ruling the world and why this is not only hugely problematic but oh so cringe.
And it’s not all bad news - we look back at 2005 - the year of YouTube, Mariah Carey and Harry Potter mayhem.
Mentions:
Are we in a ‘Doom...2025-01-2238 minThe ChangeSummer Series Episode 2: Women over 50 are having a moment - it’s about time!In episode 2 of our summer series, we discuss the increasing visibility and representation of older women in media, particularly after the Golden Globes earlier this month. How good was Demi Moore’s speech?! We also celebrate the achievements of us ‘normal’ women over 50, and look at some Aussie influencers going viral.
We reflect on the current state of the world, especially the horrific wildfires in LA - and express concerns about cultural shifts and the influence of technology on mental health. Amidst the chaos however, we chat about the importance of finding hope and taking action at a commu...2025-01-1545 minThe ChangeSummer Series Episode 1: New Year, new… Meghan Markle?!From Y2K fears to 2025 goals, Cathy and Laura explore 25 years of change. We discuss evolving New Year's resolutions and embrace aging. Personal aspirations include reading more and new career paths. Meghan Markle's social media comeback and cooking show are also on the agenda and we have opinions!!
Twenty years on from the Boxing Day tsunami, we remember the devastation and celebrate improved warning systems. Then, it's a blast to the past, reliving the iconic movies and music of the vibrant 80s!
Mentions:
Netflix trailer - With love, Meghan
Spotify playlist...2025-01-0843 minThe ChangeSummer Series coming soon!This January, join Cathy and Laura for a bite-sized summer treat! From uplifting stories to their take on the not-so-great news items and maybe even a little WTF moment or two!
Expect plenty of laughs, juicy gossip and a sprinkle of summer recommendations. It’s the perfect way to catch up, stay in the know, and enjoy some light-hearted chats during your holiday break.
Hosts:
Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/
Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/
Audio Producer:
Marissa Roberts: https://www.i...2024-12-2301 minThe ChangeS3 Ep 13: The emotional and mental load of ChristmasIn this episode, the last of season three, Cathy and Laura reflect on the highlights of their podcasting year, discussing memorable guests and emotional moments.
As they approach the holiday season, they share their experiences with gift-giving, family dynamics, and the emotional load that comes with it, ultimately seeking to create new traditions that prioritise community over materialism.
Recommendations:
TV - The Last of Us on Binge
Podcast - Legacy
Book - The List by Yomi Adegoke
Hosts:
Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy...2024-11-2738 minThe ChangeBONUS Extended Cut Video: Gina Chick on grief, growth and ‘glorious rage’We couldn't get enough of Gina so we're bringing you this very special extended cut video version of Season 3, Episode 12 -Enjoy!
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Gina Chick has had her share of grief, discomfort and growth. She once sat literally alone with it all for 67 days in the Tasmanian wilderness to be the winner of Season 1 of Alone. In her incredible recently released book “We Are the Stars” Gina shares her journey from childhood wonder to navigating the complexities of adulthood and motherhood.
In this episode we talk to Gina about the importance of reconnecting with our i...2024-11-231h 08The ChangeS3 Ep 12: Gina Chick on grief, growth and ‘glorious rage’Gina Chick has had her share of grief, discomfort and growth. She once sat literally alone with it all for 67 days in the Tasmanian wilderness to be the winner of Season 1 of Alone. In her incredible recently released book “We Are the Stars” Gina shares her journey from childhood wonder to navigating the complexities of adulthood and motherhood.
In this episode we talk to Gina about the importance of reconnecting with our inner child, the natural rhythms of life, while also addressing the grief and letting go that comes with motherhood. We talk about the need for women...2024-11-201h 03The ChangeS3 Ep 11: Being Your Authentic Self: Lessons from MasterChefSteph, a former contestant on MasterChef, discusses her experience on the show and her journey to becoming a successful social media influencer.
Cath and Laura ask Steph all the pervy questions about the audition process for MasterChef, her favourite Aldi centre aisle purchase and the lessons she learned about being her authentic self.
Steph explains how she has built a large following on social media by creating relatable and easy-to-follow cooking content and her exciting plans coming soon!!
And of course we ask Steph about her menopause journey.
With thanks to Ste...2024-11-1347 minThe ChangeS3 BONUS: The women are not okay!In this bonus conversation, Cathy and Laura do a debrief on what just happened in the US now that Trump has been voted in… again.
They reflect on how the result is making them and women around the world feel and the scary emboldening of far right extremists and misogynists.
The discussion delves into why it’s important to check your privilege and some hopeful thoughts about what’s ahead for Australia.
Recommendations:
Leigh Sales article on why the Democrats lost
Article explainer on the 4B movement
Hosts:
2024-11-0833 minThe ChangeS3 Ep 10: Gen X are being phased but we will not go quietlyIn this conversation, Cathy and Laura reconnect after five weeks apart, sharing personal updates about their lives, including challenges faced during travels, the impact of grief and their big feelings about the current U.S. election.
In this episode’s change chat ‘big theme’, Cathy and Laura explore the complexities of ageing, nostalgia, and the generational shifts in identity and relevance.
They reflect on the physical and mental challenges of ageing, and the bittersweet nature of facing inevitable losses while also still trying to look forward to joyful moments.
The discussion delves into the feel...2024-11-0647 minThe ChangeS3 Ep 9: How does she do it all? - Twins, Career and International author Kerryn MayneCathy and Laura chat with Kerryn about her busy life as a police officer, mother of four, and author. They discuss the challenges of raising twins, dealing with intrusive questions, and finding time to write.
Kerryn shares her approach to fitting writing into her schedule, using short bursts of time and setting goals. She also talks about her inspiration for writing crime fiction and creating memorable characters.
It is a powerful interview highlighting the importance of supporting and encouraging others, as well as the power of storytelling.
With thanks to Kerryn Mayne.
...2024-10-3152 minThe ChangeS3 Ep 8: Embracing Humor and Positivity in MenopauseKat Taylor, Season 2 winner of Ch9’s Parental Guidance sits down with Cath and Laura to have a hilarious chat about the roller coaster of peri/menopause, parenting and everything in between.
Kat talks about the need for safe spaces for women to share their experiences and support each other.
We talk about Kat’s experience with perimenopause and the challenges she has faced. Including the emotional breakdown she had while searching for a sentimental book, which led her to discover that she was in the thick of perimenopause.
With thanks to Kat Taylor...2024-10-2351 minThe ChangeS3 Ep 7: ‘I have to stop, I want to stop.’ - Breaking free from alcoholIn this episode Belinda shares her colorful and eventful life story, from being a single mother to battling postnatal depression and breast cancer.
She discusses her journey of overcoming alcohol addiction and finding her passion for coaching and supporting women.
We talk about how it is important to embrace change, support each other through life’s challenges and remember to celebrate all the stages of our lives.
With thanks to Belinda Stark.
Belinda Stark's instagram
Belinda Stark website
Embrace Midlife with Belinda Stark
Mentions:
Siss...2024-10-1635 minThe ChangeS3 Ep 6: Come as you are: sexuality and midlifeJayne McCartney, a sexologist, shares her journey into the field and the importance of sexual exploration and self-reflection.
Cath and Laura have a fabulous chat with Jayne about how sexuality can vary in midlife and the importance of communication at all stages.
Jayne is passionate about celebrating all milestones in our lives including menopause and that women need more support as we go through it.
With thanks to Jayne McCartney.
Jayne McCartney’s instagram
Jayne McCartney website
Mentions:
Come As You Are by Dr. Emily Metkoski...2024-10-0956 minThe ChangeS3 Ep 5: Finding Joy in FriendshipCath and Laura chat about all the complexities of friendship, grief, and the challenges of making connections as adults.
Cath shares that exhausting admin load that many women feel when planning a holiday.
Laura shares her emotional toll of losing a dear friend and the importance of nurturing friendships throughout life.
Cath and Laura highlight the importance of community and support during difficult times, as well as the joy and comfort that friendships bring.
Article:
Making new friends when you're over 40 is hard, but this is why it's necessary - La...2024-10-0337 minThe ChangeS3 Ep 4: A midlife make-up expert on why you shouldn’t wait to wear that bright red lippy.Laura and Cathy chat to Amanda Ramsay, the ageless beauty bestie and makeup artist for women over 40, about her career journey in the beauty industry and some of her best tips and tricks.
After being asked so many questions about make-up from her female friends in their midlife, Amanda talks about the pivotal moment in a department store when she noticed how she too suddenly felt differently about makeup. Even after working in the industry!
She emphasises how she still loves to experiment and have fun with her look and gives advice about just ‘trying ou...2024-09-2544 minThe ChangeS3 Ep 3: Welcome to your ‘F**k it’ era: Combating ageism in fashion.Faye and Lauren Browne, founders of Motto Fashions, discuss their journey in the fashion industry and the importance of feeling confident and empowered through fashion.
They emphasise the need to break free from societal expectations and embrace personal style at any age. At age 70, Motto founder Faye shares how she still loves to experiment and have fun with her clothes, inspiring and encouraging women around Australia to feel good and wear what they love.
The women chat about the power of fashion to transform and uplift and why Motto’s ‘F*** IT’ era campaign challenges ageism...2024-09-1945 minThe ChangeS3 Ep 2: Sophie Scott OAM on surviving burnout in midlifeCathy and Laura interview Sophie Scott OAM, a former medical reporter for the ABC turned author, keynote speaker and Associate Professor (Adj) at Notre Dame University.
They discuss Sophie's experience covering the COVID-19 pandemic, the challenges of health communication, and the importance of focusing on mental wellbeing.
Sophie shares her many career highlights and talks about her own experience with burnout and the need for self-care and habit-building.
Links for more about Sophie Scott OAM:
Website
YouTube
Instagram
2024 Showreel
Buy Sophie’s book ‘Beat High...2024-09-1156 minThe ChangeS3 Ep 1: The one thing we don’t talk about enough in midlifeCathy and Laura are back for season 3 with a chatty catch up on their current life happenings. Laura is feeling reflective while on a career ‘sabbatical’ as Cathy fights cyber crime* in her new job.
The duo discuss the one thing we don’t discuss often enough about midlife and why we need to do it more - if not for us, then the next generation of women!
*Cathy is not actually fighting cyber crime rather she is bringing awareness to it, but this sounded bad ass.
Recommendations:
Laura's podcast - The Shif...2024-09-0443 minThe ChangeS3 Trailer: Catch up with the duo ahead of season 3Cathy and Laura have a quick catch up ahead of season 3 to tell you a little about what’s ahead.
Cathy also shares some big family news that brings her to tears (happy ones) and the duo discuss what it means to be a parent as the kids grow up.
Hosts:
Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/
Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/
Audio Producer:
Marissa Roberts: https://www.instagram.com/marissarobertsofficial/
Thanks for listening to The Change, a fully indepe...2024-08-2619 min
Over the Back FenceLaura Jackel and Cathy O-Brien - The Changes of Midlife - 40s, 50s, 60s and beyondThis week Nicola and Di chat with writers, podcasters, and friends Laura Jackel and Cathy O’Brien. Laura and Cathy met when they both applied for a role at Mamamia through a program called The Encoreship, which gives opportunities to women to get back into the workforce in a meaningful way. When the recruiters at Mamamia couldn’t pick between the two, they offered Laura and Cathy the chance to job share. This led to a beautiful partnership and friendship, and now Laura and Cathy have created their own podcast, The Change, to discuss the changes in life that shak...2024-07-1448 minThe ChangeS2 Ep 12: Why women are leaving their careers in midlifeJoin us for our last episode and change chat for season 2.
We have had so much fun talking to incredible women this season and have a lovely chat rounding out the season.
We talk about the challenges of midlife, specifically the importance of self-kindness, rest and play!
Our change chat topic centres around older women disappearing in the workplace and the importance of creating a workplace that encourages older women to stay.
We also share a bunch of recommendations with links below.
Recommendations:
-Book - Because I'm not my...2024-07-1140 minThe ChangeS2 Ep 11: Newsroom to Jewellery: Talitha Cummins' Inspiring Journey of Sobriety and SparkleTrigger Warning: Listener discretion is advised. This episode discusses mental health, and alcoholism. If you find yourself in need of support please see the support listed at the end of the show notes.
Talitha Cummins is likely to be a familiar name to many, most likely because she graced our tv screens reading and reporting on the news for two decades. She also had a high profile battle with alcohol.
We speak to Talitha about her journey from journalist to jeweller (which is quite the career pivot) and everything in between. We learn all about wh...2024-07-0441 minThe ChangeS2 Ep 10: In her own words part 2 - Georgia Van Cuylenburg on family and resilienceTrigger Warning: Listener discretion is advised. This episode discusses eating disorders, child sexual violence, mental health, and trauma. If you find yourself in need of support please see the support listed at the end of the show notes.
Georgia Van Cuylenburg, actor, podcaster and activist, knows a thing or two about resilience.
While her story and name may be familiar, it’s not because of her words or work. Instead it is the words and work of her brothers Hugh and Josh Van Cuylenburg the hosts of the award-winning podcast, The Imperfects.
Until now...2024-06-2935 minThe ChangeS2 Ep 9: In her own words - Georgia Van Cuylenburg on family and resilienceTrigger Warning: Listener discretion is advised. This episode discusses eating disorders, child sexual violence, mental health, and trauma. If you find yourself in need of support please see the support listed at the end of the show notes.
Georgia Van Cuylenburg, actor, podcaster and activist, knows a thing or two about resilience.
While her story and name may be familiar, it’s not because of her words or work. Instead it is the words and work of her brothers Hugh and Josh Van Cuylenburg the hosts of the award-winning podcast, The Imperfects.
Until now...2024-06-2756 minThe ChangeS2 Ep 8: Writer Trish Bolton on grieving the different versions of ourselves as we ageTrish Bolton is writer and communications professional who has just published her first novel ‘Whenever You’re Ready’ in her sixties.
We talk to Trish about her writing processes, why older women have been so invisible in media, literature and pop culture, and why thanks to writers like her this is finally changing.
Trish chats about the different grief we feel as we age; grief for the past versions of ourselves, for dreams that never realised, and for the planet.
Hosts:
Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/
La...2024-06-2046 minThe ChangeS2 Ep 7: Discretion Dressing and a midlife woman’s right to ‘bare arms’This week Cathy and Laura discuss a recent article published in The Cut called ‘The Power of Discretion after 60’
Is it better to ‘dress for your age’ or dress how ever the feck you want? Laura and Cathy discuss the theory behind the article and how the ideas have played out in their own lives.
The duo also share recommendations with links below.
Hosts:
Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/
Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/
Recommendations:
-Heist Creative - Branding photo...2024-06-1236 minThe ChangeS2 E6: Ali Anderson: How a former alcoholic and mum overcame her challenges to help others.Trigger Warning: Listener discretion is advised. This episode discusses domestic and sexual violence, mental health, trauma and alcoholism. If you find yourself in need of support please see the support listed at the end of the show notes.
Join us as we talk to Ali Anderson. She is a powerhouse who has lived many lives.
Ali is a self-described high functioning alcoholic, a mother of 3 adult daughters and a late bloomer as she calls it.
We talk about alcoholism, mental health, domestic violence and finding a way to the other side.
It i...2024-06-0654 minThe ChangeS2 Ep 5: Male escorts, sex and desire: Anna Grosman on what women wantThis week Cathy and Laura chat about female desire, male escorts and shame with Anna Grosman.
Fifty-two-year-old Anna Grosman, is an accomplished entrepreneur with a passion for empowering women. As one of the founders of Aphrodisiac Male Escorts which thrived from 2012 – 2018, Anna is now the founder and owner of HerConfidant - an elite male escort agency for women.
Warm, nurturing and no-nonsense, Anna advocates for female sexuality without stigma and shame. In fact, she’ll be the reassuring voice you’ll hear on the phone if and when you decide to book an appointment!
Hosts:2024-05-3049 minThe ChangeS2 Ep 4: Kylee Stone on using the power of storytelling for a better lifeIn this episode we speak to the formidable Kylee Stone, a proud descendant of the Waka Waka and Kullili First Nations People.
Kylee is a storyteller at her core. She has re-invented herself many times throughout her life as a former Director at NewsCorp, Kylee’s career is marked by excellence in leadership development, growth, innovation and resilience.
We have a fascinating chat with Kylee about connection, reinvention and her relationship with change.
We hope you enjoy this chat with Kylee as much as we did.
Hosts:
Cath...2024-05-2351 minThe ChangeS2 Ep 3: Anne Stephens on grandmotherhood and the career advice we need to hear.Anne Stephens is a teacher, mother to two sets of adult twins and now a grandmother. Some of you may know Anne as the outspoken Outlouder and mum to Jessie and Clare Stephens AKA - ‘The Twins’.
Anne tells us all about the differences of raising kids in the 90s compared with now and the surprising parts of becoming a grandmother. She gives us some great career advice and notes on when to lean in or not and why our generation might just have it sorted when it comes to perimenopause.
Hosts:
Cathy O’Br...2024-05-1641 minThe ChangeS2 Ep 2: A GP explains how just 15 minutes in nature each day can transform you .. especially in midlifeDr Dimity Williams is a mother, nature lover, family doctor and advocate of nature protection for health’s sake.
She is also the author of Nature, Our Medicine: How the natural world sustains us.
On this episode Dr Williams chat to Cathy and Laura about writing ‘nature prescriptions’ for her patients and why just a few minutes in nature each day can help our mental and physical health. She describes the numerous benefits of being in nature for adults and why unstructured play outdoors will always be important for kids.
Finally, we chat about...2024-05-0953 minThe ChangeS2 Ep 1: Giving less f#%ks, g-string undies, and why the washing up matters.Cathy and Laura are back for season 2!
Just a warning this episode contains a bit of swearing so don’t listen around little ears if this is a worry for you.
Catch up with Cathy and Laura as they have a change chat about all the things that have been tumbling through their minds over the season break.
They reflect on their recent birthdays, life, relationships and other things women in their midlife are talking about ahead of season 2.
Most importantly what prompts Cathy to say “We just don’t have time to give...2024-05-0243 min
The ChangeThe Change Podcast: Season 2 is Coming Soon!Season 2 of The Change Podcast is Coming Soon!
Hosts:
Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/
Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/
Audio Producer:
Marissa Roberts: https://www.instagram.com/marissarobertsofficial/
Thanks for listening to The Change, a fully independent podcast.
We appreciate your support and listens, so if you like what we do please tell your friends and leave a five star review!
Send us a voice message here: https://p...2024-04-3002 minThe ChangeBonus Ep 11: Adventure and self-acceptance - the changes we still want to make in midlife.In this bonus episode we reflect on a fantastic first season and pull out some of our biggest learnings.
Cathy explains why she feels less invisible than she did at the start of season 1 and Laura shares some of the changes she wasn’t honest about in episode 1.
This is the last episode in season 1 and we’ll be back in May 2024 with more inspirational, smart women telling great stories about change for season 2.
Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/
Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/
...2024-03-1428 minThe ChangeEp 10: Jessie Stephens on new motherhood and big changesOur last episode for season one is with the phenomenal and incredibly accomplished Jessie Stephens. We all worked together at Mamamia and it a fabulous episode where we talk to Jessie about motherhood, writing a book (or two in Jessie’s case), being an aunty and everything in between.
Anyone who is a Mamamia follower might remember the disagreement that Mia and Jessie had about being a stay at home mum. Mia took the side that being a stay at home mum is intellectually boring and not very stimulating, and at the time Jessie thought that it woul...2024-03-0638 minThe ChangeEp 9: Flipping the script on invisibility in midlife - one woman’s joy after 50Not everyone hits 50 and feels invisible as today’s guest proves! Meet Teresa McNamara, a makeup guru and single parent to two now adult women who upended her life in her mid-forties and just a few years later was the happiest she has ever been.
At 50 she married her soulmate, and at 53 she launched her YouTube channel thats filled with relatable and practical makeup and skincare tutorials.
Always filter free and realistic - Teresa is a product enthusiast and collector who wants to help other women look and feel good at any age.
Forg...2024-02-2833 minThe ChangeEp 8: One woman’s shock at discovering she was the family secretImagine discovering in your mid-thirties that you were adopted and had a whole other family that had been searching for you for years?
For Louise Wilkinson, dance school director and motivational speaker, this is exactly what happened when she received a surprise letter in the mail from her biological mother.
But rather than let this shock news upend her life in a negative way, the letter and the huge changes that followed, were an opportunity for Louise to invite more love into her life.
We chat to Louise about how she dealt with dis...2024-02-2135 minThe ChangeEp 7: Divorce, dating and HRT - a chat about some very big life changes.Writer, mother and self-confessed over-sharer Cathrine Mahoney has been through some big changes in the last decade. She split from former NRL player and TV commentator, Andrew Johns, and began dating again in her forties.
She went from a career as a publicist to a podcaster, author and TV panel regular.
We chat to Cathrine about all of these big career and relationship changes, as well as what happened when she recently began experiencing perimenopausal symptoms and started taking HRT.
Credits:
Cathrine Mahoney’s podcast ‘So I Quit Mt Day Job’: https...2024-02-1437 minThe ChangeEp 6: The truth about juggling your dream job with motherhood.Lizza Gebilagin is a writer, podcaster and former editor-in-chief of Women’s Health magazine. She’s also a super fit mum who didn’t let a pandemic stop her pursuing her dreams!
We chat to Lizza about her huge career changes that saw her leap from magazines to digital and back again and how she really managed the motherhood juggle alongside her dream editor-in-chief job.
We discuss Lizza’s amazing career pivots during Covid and her foray into the world of professional boxing in her thirties!
Mentions:
Lizza Gebilagin https://3amhuddle.substack.co...2024-02-0731 minThe ChangeEp 5: Ageism is never in style: one woman’s campaign to change the rules.In this extended episode we have a heartfelt conversation with Jacynth Bassett all the way from the UK, we explore her reasons for the creation of The Bias Cut. Jacynth's vision for The Bias Cut has blossomed into a beacon of change in the fashion industry in the UK and beyond.
We explore the origins of The Bias Cut, its impact on age-inclusive fashion, and the powerful narrative behind this initiative. We talk about the moment she knew that Ageism is Never in Style was going to be bigger than she could have hoped and when #ilookmyage b...2024-01-3152 minThe ChangeEp 4: The ‘otherhood’ - who we become when our kids grow up.When we are parents to littles we all have this vision that when our littles become big, being a parent will be somehow easier. So what happens to our sense of who we are when we get relegated to the sidelines and are no longer the participant parent in our kids' lives?
In this episode we speak with Bron about life as a mum and how this has evolved over the past nearly 20 years, and what she is most looking forward to in her third act!
Bron is a passionate advocate for working parents. She has...2024-01-2448 minThe ChangeEp 3: Love changes everything: when Amy met LauraHave you heard of the term “sexually nebulous”? We hadn’t prior to speaking with Amy!
This episode we speak with Amy Lovat about her big change - falling in love with her soulmate Laura after years of dating men.
Amy is the author of Mistakes and Other Lovers, founder of Secret Book Stuff and program manager of the Newcastle Writers Festival.
Credits:
Amy Lovat: https://www.instagram.com/thatamylovat/
Amy’s article for the Guardian on meeting Laura:
https://amp.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2023/aug/20/the-moment-i-knew-i-had-a-realisation-if-the-plane-crashed-id-die-without-laura-knowing-i-loved-her
Cathy O’Bri...2024-01-1743 minThe ChangeEp 2: A psychologist shares her secrets to embracing changeHave you ever wondered why some people breeze through change and others find it to be their kryptonite?
We speak to Tracey Williams a registered clinical psychologist about the psychology of change. She helps us unpack some of the big questions around change, and we also talk about how it is possible to ‘flip the script’ on change and get a little more comfortable with it even in the darkest moments.
Credits:
Cathy O’Brien https://www.instagram.com/cathy_l_obrien/
Laura Jackel https://www.instagram.com/lauracjackel/
Audio Pro...2024-01-1041 minThe ChangeEp 1: Unexpected midlife changes that shocked and rocked usGet to know Laura and Cathy, your hosts of The Change as we chat about some of our biggest life changes in recent times that have shocked or rocked us.
We get real about how we feel about change with no judgment or shame and we discuss our experiences and feelings about “The Change”, a life stage otherwise known as the menopause and perimenopause.
Mentions:
Cathy’s article:
'I'm in my early fifties, and I feel like I'm becoming invisible.' https://www.mamamia.com.au/invisibility-of-older-women/
Laura’s article: 2024-01-0335 minThe ChangeThe Change: Coming Soon!The Change is a podcast about the changes in life that shake, break and make us.Coming soon to wherever you get your podcasts!2023-12-2002 min