#162 Reframing Menopause and Embracing Ageing; with Stella Duffy

Stella Duffy is an existential psychotherapist, award-winning writer, actor, director, a campaigner for equality and diversity, and recently completed a PHD in the embodied experience of post menopause. She herself has been postmenopausal for 30 odd years following chemotherapy as a younger woman.

In this chat, we get into the deep-rooted cultural stories around menopause and ageing, including Stella’s mission to change the negativity younger women often hear about it. She challenges the idea that postmenopause is all about decline, instead seeing it as a transition into a new, thriving chapter.

Stella shares some of the amazing stories of women she researched as part of her doctorate on post menopause, showing just how varied the experience can be—some women struggle, some breeze through, and most land somewhere in between. But society tends to focus on fear and loss, making ageing seem like something to dread. Instead, she encourages us to lean into change rather than fight it. Menopause can be tough, sure, but it’s also a chance for growth, renewal, and empowerment.

Our chat is a powerful reminder that menopause isn’t the end—it’s just the next phase of an ever-evolving life. Hope you enjoy it.

Find out more about Stella's work here; https://stelladuffytherapy.co.uk/about-stella-duffy/

Or if you need support with your menopause symptoms or other health issues, contact us here; https://happyhormonesforlife.com/contact