Just As Well, The Women's Health Podcast

Clara Amfo joins Claire Sanderson for an honest, funny and inspiring conversation about the health reset that has changed how she feels in her body and her everyday life. After years of running on and off, Clara explains how training for the London Marathon prompted her to take a more structured approach to her health — prioritising strength training, nutrition, sleep and recovery. She shares how learning to fuel properly, build muscle and train consistently has made her feel stronger and more powerful, both physically and mentally. Clara also opens up about receiving an ADHD diagnosis in adulthood, the relief of understanding her brain, and the ways it has influenced her relationship with food, dopamine, focus and time. She discusses body image and the pressure women face to become smaller, including how people’s attitudes towards her changed when her body changed. Plus, Clara reveals the simple habits that help her manage a busy career spanning television, radio and podcasting — and explains why putting herself first has become non-negotiable. PhD Nutrition | Feel Good Science | PhD | Feel Good Science Keywords Clara Amfo, Just As Well, Women’s Health UK, Claire Sanderson, ADHD in women, adult ADHD diagnosis, late ADHD diagnosis, neurodivergence, ADHD symptoms, ADHD and food, dopamine seeking, body image, women and body image, health reset, health overhaul, running, London Marathon, marathon training, strength training, women who lift, building strength, nutrition, fuelling for running, protein, sleep and recovery, wellness habits, women’s health, feeling strong, confidence, self-care, busy women, mental health, health and fitness 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

GLP-1 weight-loss drugs are everywhere — but are they the answer to food noise, cravings and long-term health? Claire Sanderson speaks to nutritionist and author Kim Pearson about what GLP-1 medications can and cannot do, their potential risks, weight regain after stopping treatment, muscle preservation and the growing pressure for women to become smaller. They also explore the psychology of cravings, the impact of sleep and stress on appetite, ultra-processed foods, strength training and Kim’s practical approach to improving health without extreme dieting. This is a nuanced conversation about weight, health and the changing culture around women’s bodies — without telling women how they should look. Keywords: GLP-1s, GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, weight loss medication, food noise, cravings, women’s health, body image, smaller bodies, weight regain, muscle loss, strength training, nutrition, ultra-processed foods, healthy eating, sleep and appetite, perimenopause and weight, Kim Pearson, The Nozempic Diet, Just As Well, Women’s Health UK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr Louise Newson challenges the belief that HRT automatically increases breast cancer risk—and explains why the type of hormone, the dose, and the individual woman all matter. She discusses: What the famous 2002 study actually found Why estrogen-only and combined HRT can have different risks Why some women need higher doses because they do not absorb patches or gels properly Why menopause symptoms can include joint pain, palpitations, insomnia, low mood and brain fog Why women are still being prescribed antidepressants instead of hormones The difference between progesterone and synthetic progestogens Why a blood test may not tell the whole story Whether HRT can protect future bone and heart health This is a frank conversation about medical misinformation, women being dismissed, and why “one dose fits all” medicine may be failing women. Buy The Power of Hormones here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Power-Hormones-misinformation-hormones-healthier/dp/1399749935/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sex psychotherapist Kate Moyle returns to Just As Well to answer the questions women are often too embarrassed to ask. From a disappearing libido, stress and motherhood to menopause, orgasms, body confidence, infidelity and erectile dysfunction, Kate explains why desire changes — and why that does not mean there is anything wrong with you. With Claire Sanderson and Gemma Atkinson, this is a frank, reassuring conversation about rebuilding intimacy, communicating with your partner and having sex that feels good for you now. 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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