Just As Well, The Women's Health Podcast

Women's Health UK

Just As Well is the wellness podcast for women who want real science, practical advice, and great chat. Hosted by Gemma Atkinson and Women's Health Editor in chief Claire Sanderson, two working mums in their 40s who balance training with busy lifestyles. The show takes in everything from hormones and gut health to strength training and mental wellbeing.

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20 episodes
Updated Tuesday

Episodes20

Newest first

Tuesday · 54 min
How to Age Better: Dr Tamsin Lewis on Stress, HRT, Supplements and the Longevity Myths to Ignore
Living longer is one thing — but how do we make sure those extra years are healthy, strong and fulfilling? Dr Tamsin Lewis joins Claire Sanderson on Just As Well to cut through the longevity hype and share what genuinely supports a longer healthspan. From the hidden impact of chronic stress and the importance of muscle, rest and community, to HRT, supplements, GLP-1s and whether expensive NAD drips are worth it, this is a practical, refreshingly honest guide to ageing well. Plus: the one habit Dr Tamsin believes delivers more benefit than we realise — and why women need to stop putting themselves at the bottom of the list. Want more from Women’s Health? Join the Women’s Health COLLECTIVE for workouts, exclusive events and expert advice to unlock your fittest self - Train smarter. Live better. Visit www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/wh-podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
July 28 · 45 min
Why Is My Hair Falling Out? Trichologist Annabel Kingsley on What Really Works
Noticing more hair in your brush, a thinner ponytail or widening around your parting? Hair loss can be frightening – but understanding what’s causing it is the first step towards tackling it. In this episode of Just As Well Claire Sanderson and Gemma Atkinson are joined by leading trichologist Annabel Kingsley to explain why women experience hair loss during postpartum, perimenopause and menopause – and how stress, rapid weight loss, GLP-1 medication and low iron levels can also trigger shedding. Annabel reveals how to tell normal shedding from a potential problem, when hair loss may be reversible and when to seek expert help. She also shares the changes that can support healthier hair growth, from getting enough protein and carbohydrates to looking after your scalp properly. Plus, she separates fact from fiction on collagen, biotin, red-light therapy, minoxidil and expensive hair products – and explains why taking supplements without a blood test could make matters worse. If you’re worried about hair loss, this practical and reassuring episode will help you understand what’s happening – and what to do next. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
July 21 · 44 min
How to Make Your Doctor Listen: Cherry Healey on the Symptoms Women Ignore
Have you ever gone to the doctor knowing something wasn’t right, only to feel dismissed? Women’s health advocate Cherry Healey joins Claire Sanderson on Just As Well to explain why women are still struggling to be heard—and how to advocate for yourself when your symptoms aren’t being taken seriously. They discuss recurrent UTIs, the perimenopause symptoms too often mistaken for depression, why heart problems can be missed in women and the signs we should never simply “put up with”. Cherry also shares her own experience of fighting for UTI treatment, the HRT prescription that changed her life and the practical steps you can take to make your voice heard in the consulting room. This episode contains a discussion of suicide. Sponsored by Femfresh. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
July 14 · 1 hr 6 min
ADHD, Health Anxiety and the Hidden Harm of Overdiagnosis
Can a diagnosis sometimes do more harm than good? Claire Sanderson and Gemma Atkinson are joined by consultant neurologist and bestselling author Suzanne O’Sullivan to explore why more people are receiving medical labels—and whether those labels always lead to better health. Suzanne explains the important difference between misdiagnosis and overdiagnosis, and why finding an abnormality doesn’t necessarily mean it will ever make you ill. The conversation covers the rise in ADHD and autism diagnoses, the risks of medicating children too readily, health anxiety, wearables, full-body scans and the impact of constantly monitoring our bodies. They also ask whether ordinary sadness and anxiety are becoming overmedicalised, and how we can raise awareness of menopause without making women fear it. Suzanne’s views have attracted criticism, but her argument isn’t that people should ignore symptoms or avoid medical care. Instead, she wants us to ask: what will this diagnosis give me, what harm could it cause and will it meaningfully improve my life? Suzanne O’Sullivan’s latest book is The Age of Diagnosis. This episode is for general information and discussion and should not replace personalised medical advice. Want more from Women’s Health? Join the Women’s Health COLLECTIVE for workouts, exclusive events and expert advice to unlock your fittest self - Train smarter. Live better. Visit www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/wh-podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
July 7 · 48 min
Gabby Allen on Mental Resilience, Strength Training and Why Consistency Beats Perfection
Live from a special Just As Well event, Gemma Atkinson and Claire Sanderson sit down with fitness coach, entrepreneur and Celebrity SAS winner Gabby Allen. Gabby shares the experiences that shaped her mindset – from undergoing scoliosis surgery as a teenager to competing in some of television's toughest challenges. She explains why consistency matters more than perfection, how strength training transformed her confidence, and the simple habits that help her stay healthy when life gets busy. The conversation also covers: Why women shouldn't fear lifting weights The mental resilience she developed through dance, fitness and SAS Training for Hyrox Fitness myths that need to disappear The benefits of creatine for women Building confidence in the gym Why small daily actions matter more than all-or-nothing thinking What "well" really means to her Plus, Gabby answers audience questions on training with injuries, recovery, motivation and staying active through different stages of life. If you've ever struggled to stay consistent with your health goals, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
June 30 · 52 min
Why Women Are Running On Empty | Dr Zoe Williams on Stress, Burnout & Mental Load
Why do so many women feel exhausted, overwhelmed and unable to switch off — even when life looks “good” on paper? In this episode of Just As Well, Gemma Atkinson and Claire Sanderson sit down with Dr Zoe Williams for an honest conversation about chronic stress, burnout, cortisol and the invisible mental load women carry every day. From 3am wake-ups and brain fog to chest pain, anxiety and feeling constantly “wired but tired”, Dr Zoe explains how stress shows up in the body — and why so many women ignore the warning signs until they physically can’t anymore. The conversation also covers: The difference between normal stress and chronic stress Why women struggle to say no How stress affects sleep, hormones, fertility and libido The pressure of balancing work, motherhood and home life Burnout, boundaries and the importance of recovery Simple techniques to calm your nervous system A relatable, funny and eye-opening episode for any woman who feels like she’s juggling too much. 🎧 Follow Just As Well for more conversations on women’s health, wellbeing and modern life. Want more from Women’s Health? Join the Women’s Health COLLECTIVE for workouts, exclusive events and expert advice to unlock your fittest self - Train smarter. Live better. Visit www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/wh-podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
June 23 · 59 min
Kate Rowe-Ham: Why Midlife Women Need Strength, Confidence & Community More Than Ever
Is midlife really a time to slow down—or could it be your strongest chapter yet? In this episode of Just As Well, Claire Sanderson is joined by women's strength and longevity coach, bestselling author and podcast host Kate Rowe-Ham. Fresh from completing both HYROX and the London Marathon, Kate shares why challenging herself physically has become about far more than fitness. Together, Claire and Kate discuss the realities of ageing, the importance of strength training, the power of community, and why women need to stop accepting the narrative that they become invisible after 40. They also explore practical ways to improve health and wellbeing through movement, nutrition, mindset and recovery—without striving for perfection. In this episode: Why movement helps manage life's mental load The benefits of strength training in midlife What Kate learned from HYROX and marathon training Why women need better representation as they age The role of protein, fibre and recovery in longevity How to break self-sabotaging habits Why confidence and community are essential for thriving in midlife A motivating and uplifting conversation for anyone who wants to age with strength, purpose and confidence. Want more from Women’s Health? Join the Women’s Health COLLECTIVE for workouts, exclusive events and expert advice to unlock your fittest self - Train smarter. Live better. Visit www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/wh-podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
June 16 · 59 min
Ashley James: Motherhood, Body Image, Birth Trauma & Why Women Need to Stop Shrinking Themselves
Ashley James joins Gemma Atkinson and Claire Sanderson for a powerful and deeply honest conversation about motherhood, body confidence, women's health and finding your voice. Known for her broadcasting career, activism and new book Bimbo, Ashley reflects on growing up in a world that taught women to take up less space and how she's spent years unlearning those messages. She opens up about the sexualisation she experienced as a teenager, the pressure women face to look a certain way, and why health should never be defined by body size. Ashley also shares her experience of birth trauma, prolapse, postnatal recovery and the reality of life after having children – highlighting the support she believes women deserve but too often don't receive. Together, the trio discuss: The pressure to "bounce back" after childbirth Postpartum health, prolapse and recovery Diet culture and the rise of weight-loss injections Raising daughters and sons in today's world Misogyny, social media and modern womanhood Ashley's new book, Bimbo This is a thoughtful, empowering conversation about health, confidence and why women deserve better. If you've ever felt pressured to be smaller, quieter or "less", this episode is for you. Want more from Women’s Health? Join the Women’s Health COLLECTIVE for workouts, exclusive events and expert advice to unlock your fittest self - Train smarter. Live better. Visit www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/wh-podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
June 9 · 29 min
The Truth About Carbs, Fat Loss and Sustainable Fitness with Oyinda Okunowo
Fitness coach, Gymshark athlete and content creator Oyinda Okunowo joins Just As Well to talk about building a healthier relationship with fitness—and why getting results doesn't have to mean cutting out everything you enjoy. After retiring from professional football and gaining weight at university, Oyinda began her own fitness journey, eventually qualifying as a personal trainer and building an audience of millions through her relatable, evidence-based approach to health and exercise. In this episode, Oyinda shares the lessons she's learned along the way, from navigating the overwhelming world of fitness advice to helping women feel more confident in the gym. We discuss social media myths, unrealistic transformation culture, body recomposition, and why consistency always beats quick fixes. You'll also hear practical advice for beginners, including the importance of mastering form before chasing heavier weights, how to make fitness sustainable, and why carbohydrates aren't the enemy. Try Oyinda's training plan here: https://link.womenshealthmag.co.uk/join/signup-womens-health-2026-summer-podcast Want more from Women’s Health? Join the Women’s Health COLLECTIVE for workouts, exclusive events and expert advice to unlock your fittest self - Train smarter. Live better. Visit www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/wh-podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
June 2 · 50 min
Dr Shireen on Perimenopause, Burnout & Why Women Ignore Symptoms
Women’s health expert and GP Dr Shireen joins Gemma Atkinson and Claire Sanderson to discuss why so many women dismiss symptoms, delay seeking help and struggle to prioritise their own health. From perimenopause and hormones to burnout, stress, painful periods and pelvic health, this episode is packed with practical advice and honest conversation about the realities of women’s health today. Dr Shireen also opens up about the moment trusting her instincts as a mother saved her son’s life. A must-listen conversation about advocating for yourself, understanding your body and recognising the symptoms women should never ignore. Want more from Women’s Health? Join the Women’s Health COLLECTIVE for workouts, exclusive events and expert advice to unlock your fittest self - Train smarter. Live better. Visit www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/wh-podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
May 26 · 57 min
Michelle Heaton: Addiction, Menopause and Finding Sobriety
Michelle Heaton joins Gemma Atkinson and Claire Sanderson for one of the most powerful episodes of Just As Well. From her rise to fame in Liberty X to the pressures of life in the spotlight, Michelle reflects on the highs and the challenges of her career — including body image struggles and the intense scrutiny of the early 2000s. She speaks candidly about her battle with alcohol addiction, the moment she realised she needed help, and what life was really like behind closed doors. Michelle also opens up about undergoing a full hysterectomy in her 30s after testing positive for the BRCA2 gene, and how early menopause impacted her mental and physical health. Now nearly five years sober, Michelle shares how she rebuilt her life, her marriage and her sense of self — and the daily practices that keep her grounded today. Want more from Women’s Health? Join the Women’s Health COLLECTIVE for workouts, exclusive events and expert advice to unlock your fittest self - Train smarter. Live better. Visit www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/wh-podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
May 19 · 1 hr 4 min
Laura Hoggins: Why Pilates Isn’t Enough
Laura Hoggins, aka Laura Biceps, joins Gemma Atkinson and Claire Sanderson to talk strength training, Pilates, muscle, midlife fitness and why women need to stop fearing weights. Laura explains why Pilates and yoga have their place, but may not be enough to build and maintain full-body muscle. She also shares practical advice on progressive overload, gym confidence, fuelling your workouts, recovery, training after 40 and building strength for life. Plus, Laura opens up about egg freezing, fertility, hormones and learning to respect her body during a physically and emotionally challenging time. Want more from Women’s Health? Join the Women’s Health COLLECTIVE for workouts, exclusive events and expert advice to unlock your fittest self - Train smarter. Live better. Visit www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/wh-podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
May 12 · 43 min
Hannah Waddingham on confidence, motherhood, menopause and Ted Lasso
In this episode of Just As Well, Claire Sanderson sits down with actor Hannah Waddingham for a candid conversation about confidence, motherhood, menopause and the long road to success. Hannah reflects on why she was never an “overnight success”, the resilience it took to move from theatre to screen, and why she refuses to shrink herself for anyone. She also opens up about raising her daughter with honesty and strong boundaries, navigating body image, and why getting older has brought a new sense of freedom. Plus, Hannah shares her thoughts on wellness, self-worth and what she can reveal about the return of Ted Lasso. Want more from Women’s Health? Join the Women’s Health COLLECTIVE for workouts, exclusive events and expert advice to unlock your fittest self - Train smarter. Live better. Visit www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/wh-podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
May 5 · 1 hr 6 min
Dr Giles Yeo: Obesity, Food Noise and the Truth About GLP-1s
In this episode of Just As Well, Claire Sanderson and Gemma Atkinson are joined by Dr Giles Yeo — obesity expert, geneticist and bestselling author — for a powerful conversation on the science of weight. Together, they explore why obesity is a chronic disease rather than a simple lifestyle choice, and how our brains, genetics and environment shape the way we eat. Dr Yeo explains the concept of “food noise”, why some people feel hungrier than others, and why losing weight can feel like your body is working against you. They also take a deep dive into GLP-1 drugs, including how they work, who they’re designed for, and why they shouldn’t be treated as cosmetic quick fixes. From the risks of misuse to the potential future of these medications, this episode offers a clear, evidence-based perspective on one of the most talked-about topics in health today. A thoughtful and compassionate look at obesity, weight stigma and what it really takes to improve our health. Want more from Women’s Health? Join the Women’s Health COLLECTIVE for workouts, exclusive events and expert advice to unlock your fittest self - Train smarter. Live better. Visit www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/wh-podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
April 28 · 52 min
He Pretended to Love Me — Then Stole My Life Savings
In this powerful episode of Just As Well, Claire Sanderson speaks to Tracy Hall — author, financial wellness advocate and senior marketing leader — about the devastating romance fraud that changed her life. After meeting a man through online dating, Tracy believed she had found love with a successful finance executive. Instead, she was drawn into an elaborate deception by one of Australia’s most notorious con men, who stole her life savings. Tracy shares how trust was built, the subtle warning signs she missed, and how she rebuilt her confidence after betrayal. The conversation also explores why women need to understand their finances, how financial vulnerability can show up in any relationship, and what practical steps we can all take to protect ourselves. Want more from Women’s Health? Join the Women’s Health COLLECTIVE for workouts, exclusive events and expert advice to unlock your fittest self - Train smarter. Live better. Visit www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/wh-podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
April 21 · 1 hr 2 min
Skin in Your 30s, 40s & Beyond: What Really Works with Dr Sophie Shotter
What does your skin actually need — and what’s just hype? In this episode, Claire Sanderson sits down with Dr Sophie Shotter, award-winning aesthetic doctor and President of the British College of Aesthetic Medicine, to break down what really works when it comes to skin health. From your 20s through to your 50s and beyond, Sophie explains how your skin changes, why your 40s can feel like a “cliff edge,” and what you can do to protect it. They cover: The 4 essential skincare steps everyone needs The ingredients to avoid (even in expensive products) Why your skin barrier might be damaged The truth about Botox, fillers & skin boosters What to ask before choosing a clinic Budget-friendly skincare that actually works They also discuss the impact of lifestyle factors such as stress, sleep, alcohol and diet, and how these influence not just how your skin looks, but how it functions. A practical, honest and expert-led conversation about aging well — and looking like the best version of yourself. Want more from Women’s Health? Join the Women’s Health COLLECTIVE for workouts, exclusive events and expert advice to unlock your fittest self - Train smarter. Live better. Visit www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/wh-podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
April 14 · 44 min
Burnout, Cortisol and Chronic Stress: Nahid De Belgonne Explains How to Reset Your Body
What does chronic stress actually do to your body — and how can you start to feel better? In this episode of Just As Well, Claire Sanderson speaks to Nahid De Belgonne, founder of The Human Method, about nervous system dysregulation, burnout, cortisol overload and why so many women feel constantly overwhelmed. Nahid explains how stress can show up emotionally through irritability, impatience and reactivity, and physically through poor sleep, gut issues, inflammation, skin flare-ups and exhaustion. She also shares practical tools to help calm the body, including movement, breathwork and simple techniques to release stress before it builds up. In this conversation, they cover: - What a dysregulated nervous system actually is - Why modern life keeps us in survival mode - The emotional and physical signs of chronic stress - How cortisol affects the body - Why high-achieving women are particularly vulnerable to burnout - Practical ways to regulate your nervous system every day If you’ve been feeling frazzled, reactive, exhausted or like you can never properly switch off, this episode is for you. Subscribe to Just As Well for more conversations on women’s health, wellness and how to feel better. Want more from Women’s Health? Join the Women’s Health COLLECTIVE for workouts, exclusive events and expert advice to unlock your fittest self - Train smarter. Live better. Visit www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/wh-podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
April 7 · 44 min
Abbie Ward: Rugby, Motherhood & Resilience
Abbie Ward joins Just As Well to talk about life as a Red Rose, the evolution of women’s rugby, motherhood, pregnancy and returning to elite sport. In this episode, Abbie opens up about her journey into rugby, the realities of professionalism in the women’s game, and what it was like becoming one of the first players in professional women’s rugby to navigate pregnancy and motherhood while continuing her career. She also shares why representation matters, how rugby makes space for different body types and strengths, and why balance is the key to wellbeing. In this episode: Abbie Ward’s route into rugby The growth of women’s rugby Playing for England and Bristol Bears Motherhood and returning to professional sport Training during pregnancy Mental resilience and balance Why sport is for everybody Want more from Women’s Health? Join the Women’s Health COLLECTIVE for workouts, exclusive events and expert advice to unlock your fittest self - Train smarter. Live better. Visit www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/wh-podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
March 31 · 48 min
This Is Messing With Your Hormones
How much are everyday products affecting your hormones? In this episode of Just As Well, Gemma Atkinson and Claire Sanderson speak to functional medicine health coach Kirsty Smith about endocrine disruptors hidden in fragrance, cleaning products, plastics, skincare, clothing, and even blue light. They discuss how these toxins may affect metabolism, periods, fertility, energy, sleep, and overall health — plus simple low-tox swaps you can start making today. Want more from Women’s Health? Join the Women’s Health COLLECTIVE for workouts, exclusive events and expert advice to unlock your fittest self - Train smarter. Live better. Visit www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/wh-podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
March 24 · 1 hr
Hormones, HRT, Libido & mood with The Menopause Medic
This week on Just as Well, Claire Sanderson and Gemma Atkinson sit down with Dr Fionnuala Barton, The Menopause Medic, for a fascinating conversation about perimenopause, menopause and hormone health. From HRT and sleep to libido, vaginal dryness, confidence, weight changes and strength training, Dr Barton shares practical, evidence-based advice on how women can better understand and support their bodies through this stage of life. A must-listen for women of every age — and for the people who love and support them. Want more from Women’s Health? Join the Women’s Health COLLECTIVE for workouts, exclusive events and expert advice to unlock your fittest self - Train smarter. Live better. Visit www.womenshealthmag.com/uk/wh-podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices