Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Healthy Banter's Podcast

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Whether you're struggling to find the motivation to exercise, unsure where to begin, or wondering if you're doing enough, this episode is for you.

We're joined by Exercise Physiologist Caitlin Clarke to unpack everything you need to know about building an exercise routine that works for your body, your goals, and your stage of life. We discuss the biggest barriers that stop people from exercising, why motivation isn't the key to long-term success, and how to create habits that are realistic and sustainable.

Caitlin explains how to find your personal exercise baseline, how much activity you really need to experience meaningful health benefits, and why starting small is often the smartest approach. We also explore the importance of variety in your exercise routine—not only to keep movement enjoyable but to build strength, improve fitness, and reduce the risk of overuse injuries.

We also dive into why adolescence is one of the most important windows for building lifelong bone health. Caitlin explains how the right types of exercise during the teenage years help maximise bone density, why this matters later in life, and how balanced training and good nutrition can help reduce the risk of stress fractures and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs).

Whether you're just starting your exercise journey, training for a goal, supporting an active teenager, or looking to stay healthy for decades to come, this episode is packed with practical, evidence-based advice you can apply straight away.

If you would like to book with Caitlin or one of her experienced colleagues, check out the Bodytrack website here: 

https://www.bodytrack.com.au/booking-enquiry/#booking-enq

Check out more about Caitlin here: 

https://www.bodytrack.com.au/team/caitlin-clarke/

Looking for an exercise physiologist (EP) in your area? Check out ESSA's find an accredited exercise professional here:

 https://www.essa.org.au/Web/Web/Member-location-search.aspx?hkey=46879bd9-85a7-4332-b652-f46dafaab941

Looking for more Healthy Banter? Check out our website at:

https://www.healthybanter.com.au/ or follow us https://www.instagram.com/healthybanter.podcast/

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When we think about menopause, symptoms like hot flushes and mood changes often come to mind—but did you know hormonal changes can also affect your ears, nose and throat?

In this episode, we're joined by Brisbane ENT surgeon Dr Emily Perry to explore the often-overlooked ways menopause can influence ENT health. From hearing changes and tinnitus to dry mouth, altered voice, and swallowing concerns, we unpack what happens as oestrogen levels change and what women can do to stay healthy through midlife and beyond.

We also discuss the important role of the thyroid, and how to protect your hearing. 

Whether you're approaching menopause, currently navigating it, or supporting someone who is, this episode shines a light on the symptoms that often fly under the radar. Join us for an insightful conversation filled with practical advice, myth-busting and expert guidance to help you breathe easier, hear better and feel empowered through every stage of midlife.

Looking for more Healthy Banter? Check out our website at https://www.healthybanter.com.au/ or follow us https://www.instagram.com/healthybanter.podcast/

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Do tonsils and adenoids actually serve a purpose? Why do some children seem to be constantly battling sore throats, snoring, mouth breathing or blocked noses? And when is it time to stop "waiting it out" and seek specialist advice?

In this episode, we're joined by Brisbane ENT surgeon Dr Emily Perry to answer the questions every parent has about their child's tonsils and adenoids. We explore what these tissues do as part of the immune system, why they can become enlarged or repeatedly infected, and why children can usually continue to thrive even after they are removed.

Together, we discuss:

• What tonsils and adenoids are, and their role in childhood immunity.
• The signs parents should look for, including snoring, mouth breathing, restless sleep, recurrent tonsillitis and changes in behaviour or concentration.
• When it's appropriate to see an ENT specialist.
• When surgery might be recommended—and when it isn't.
• What families can expect if a tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy is advised.

Whether you're wondering if your child's snoring is normal, concerned about frequent sore throats, or simply curious about why we even have tonsils and adenoids in the first place, this episode is packed with practical, evidence-based advice to help parents breathe a little easier.

Looking for more Healthy Banter? Check out our website at https://www.healthybanter.com.au/ or follow us https://www.instagram.com/healthybanter.podcast/

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Who are the voices behind Healthy Banter? In this special episode, we're turning the microphones on ourselves.

Join us as we share our journeys into physiotherapy, women's health, and the experiences that sparked our passion for helping people move, feel, and live better. We chat about what inspired us to start Healthy Banter, the conversations we felt were missing, and our vision for creating a podcast that makes evidence-based health information approachable, practical, and enjoyable.

You'll get to know us beyond our professional roles—what drives us, what we've learned along the way, and why we're so passionate about challenging health myths, asking curious questions, and bringing expert guests together to help you make sense of your health.

Whether you're a clinician, a health enthusiast, or simply curious about the people behind the podcast, this is the perfect place to start.

Expect plenty of laughs, honest conversations, and, of course... a little healthy banter.

Looking for more Healthy Banter? Check out our website at https://www.healthybanter.com.au/ or follow us https://www.instagram.com/healthybanter.podcast/

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In Part 2 of our conversation with Sharon Hennessey—award-winning physiotherapist, founder of The Hypermobility Project, and principal of Not Just Bendy Hypermobility Services—we explore how hypermobility can impact women across different life stages, from pregnancy through to perimenopause and menopause.

We discuss the influence of hormonal changes on connective tissue, joint stability, pain, fatigue, pelvic health, and physical function, as well as the important links between hypermobility, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS).

Drawing on nearly 30 years of clinical experience and her own lived experience, Sharon shares practical insights to help women better understand their bodies and navigate these transitions with confidence.

In this episode, we cover:
• Hypermobility and pregnancy
• Perimenopause and menopause
• Pelvic health, pain, and fatigue
• POTS and MCAS
• Practical management strategies for women across the lifespan

Whether you're living with hypermobility or supporting someone who is, this episode offers valuable insights into the unique challenges and opportunities that can arise during a woman's life journey.

Looking for hypermobility friendly clinicians? Check out the below directories:

https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/healthcare-professionals-directory/ https://potsfoundation.org.au/clinician-directory/

For amazing hypermobility resources, courses and tools please check out the below websites:
https://www.notjustbendy.com/blog/
https://hypermobilityproject.com/clinician-tools

Looking for more Healthy Banter? Check out our website at https://www.healthybanter.com.au/ or follow us https://www.instagram.com/healthybanter.podcast/

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What does it really mean to be hypermobile—and when does being "just bendy" become something more?

In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, we are joined by Sharon Hennessey, award-winning Australian physiotherapist, founder of The Hypermobility Project, and principal of Not Just Bendy Hypermobility Services. With nearly 30 years of clinical experience and lived experience as both an individual and parent navigating hypermobility, Sharon brings a unique and deeply practical perspective to this often misunderstood condition.

Together, we unpack the foundations of hypermobility, exploring what it is, why it occurs, and how it can affect children and teenagers during key stages of growth and development. Sharon shares her expertise in recognising the signs that may indicate a young person needs additional support, discusses the difference between generalised joint hypermobility and conditions such as Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD) and hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS), and explains why these presentations are frequently overlooked or misunderstood.

Whether you're a parent, healthcare professional, coach, teacher, or someone living with hypermobility, this episode provides an evidence-informed introduction to the challenges and strengths that can accompany hypermobility in childhood and adolescence.

Looking for hypermobility friendly clinicians? Check out the below directories:

https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/healthcare-professionals-directory/ https://potsfoundation.org.au/clinician-directory/

For amazing hypermobility resources, courses and tools please check out the below websites: 
https://www.notjustbendy.com/blog/
https://hypermobilityproject.com/clinician-tools

Looking for more Healthy Banter? Check out our website at https://www.healthybanter.com.au/ or follow us https://www.instagram.com/healthybanter.podcast/

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This episode is packed with evidence-based advice delivered in a compassionate, practical way—helping women feel more confident and less confused about food. 

In part 2 with Associate Professor Shelley Wilkinson, women’s health dietitian and clinician-researcher, we have a practical, down-to-earth conversation all about getting the foundations of nutrition right.

Think of this as Nutrition 101 for women—cutting through the confusion, fad diets, and overwhelming online advice to focus on the basics that truly matter for health, energy, hormones, and longevity.

Shelley breaks down simple, realistic strategies to help women nourish their bodies through every stage of life. We explore what balanced eating actually looks like, why fibre and protein matter, and how small, sustainable habits can make a big difference over time.

We also chat about the importance of getting your basics right first—like eating your 5 serves of veg, because you can’t outrun a bad diet and you can’t outsupplement one either.

Because healthy ageing isn’t about restriction or perfection. As Shelley's mantra goes, "Don’t just get older, grow bolder". 

For more of Shelley and amazing free online resources, books, blogs, as well as the capability of booking an appointment, including telehealth, if you feel that you would benefit from guidance or a dietary review, follow the links below. 

https://lifestylematernity.com.au/

https://lifestyleperimenopause.com.au/

For 10% off Shelley's "Nourish & Nurture", please enter the code HB10

Looking for more Healthy Banter? Check out our website at https://www.healthybanter.com.au/ or follow us https://www.instagram.com/healthybanter.podcast/

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In this episode, we sit down with Associate Professor Shelley Wilkinson, women’s health dietitian and clinician-researcher, to unpack what women really need to know about nutrition across the lifespan.

From fertility and pregnancy through to postpartum and perimenopause, Shelley breaks down how a woman’s nutritional needs change—and what actually matters (without the overwhelm). We cut through the noise of diet culture and online misinformation to bring you clear, evidence-based advice you can apply in real life.

We also take a deep dive into one of the most underrated nutrients: fibre. Shelley explains why fibre is essential not just for gut health, but also for hormones, energy, blood sugar balance, and long-term health—and how to easily get more of it into your day.

This episode is all about practical, no-guilt nutrition—helping you feel more confident in how you fuel your body at every stage of life.

For more of Shelley and amazing free online resources, books, blogs, as well as the capability of booking an appointment, including telehealth, if you feel that you would benefit from guidance or a dietary review, follow the links below. 

https://lifestylematernity.com.au/

https://lifestyleperimenopause.com.au/

For 10% off Shelley's "Nourish & Nurture", please enter the code HB10

Looking for more Healthy Banter? Check out our website at https://www.healthybanter.com.au/ or follow us https://www.instagram.com/healthybanter.podcast/

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This episode is all about evidence-based conversations around perimenopause and menopause management, without the overwhelm.

We’re joined by endocrinologist Dr Sonia Davison, who helps unpack what’s actually happening with your hormones and why you might be feeling the way you do.

We walk you through what to expect at each stage, from the early hormonal shifts of perimenopause through to postmenopause—covering symptoms like sleep changes, mood swings, hot flushes, pelvic health, and more.

This episode breaks things down simply, with a clear recap and practical tips you can actually use—whether that’s exercise strategies, lifestyle tweaks, or knowing when to seek extra support.

Plus, you’ll get links to trusted, free resources and educational tools so you can go deeper, feel more in control, and stop second-guessing what’s happening in your body.

Jean Hailes for Women's Health https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/

Australasian Menopause Society https://www.menopause.org.au/

Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/

Better Health Channel https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/

Looking for more Healthy Banter? Check out our website at https://www.healthybanter.com.au/ or follow us https://www.instagram.com/healthybanter.podcast/

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From the first hormonal shifts of puberty to the complex transitions of menopause, hormones shape every stage of a woman’s life — but how much do we really understand them?

In this episode, we’re joined by leading endocrinologist Dr Sonia Davison for a refreshing, no-nonsense conversation about all things hormones. We unpack what’s happening beneath the surface during puberty, reproductive years, perimenopause and menopause. Dr Davison breaks down the science in a way that actually makes sense, while tackling common myths, the real impact hormones can have on mood, energy and overall wellbeing.

This is the kind of conversation every woman deserves to hear — whether you’re navigating your first cycle or your final one.

Jean Hailes for Women's Health https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/

Australasian Menopause Society https://www.menopause.org.au/

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Menopause is a major transition — but when it overlaps with eating disorders, things can get a whole lot more complex.

In this episode, we’re joined by Professor Gemma Sharp to explore the often-overlooked link between menopause, body image, and disordered eating. We dive into the symptom crossover that can make this stage of life particularly challenging.

We also get practical, discussing how to find a menopause-aware GP, where to seek support, and what resources are available if you or someone you know is struggling during this time.

It’s an honest, evidence-informed conversation that shines a light on a space that deserves far more attention — with insight that’s valuable for both women and clinicians alike.

Free resource - Menopause and Eating Disorders https://learn.eatingdisorders.org.au/courses/menopause-and-eating-disorders

Here is Australian JEM chatbot (https://sharp-group.web.app/jem) and Canadian JEM chatbot (https://nedic.ca/jem/). 

ED ESSI chatbot is connected to clinical services (rather than being publicly available) as it provides a single session intervention which leads onto ongoing care but if someone did want to suggest ED ESSI for their clinical service, they can contact via email at admin@sharp-group.com.au. 

Australasian Menopause Society https://www.menopause.org.au/

Looking for more Healthy Banter? Check out our website at https://www.healthybanter.com.au/ or follow us https://www.instagram.com/healthybanter.podcast/

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If you’ve ever caught yourself stuck in the comparison trap, hyper-focusing on perceived flaws, or wondering why body image feels so complicated, this episode is a must-listen.

What do we actually mean when we talk about body image — and when does concern about appearance cross the line into body dysmorphia?

During this episode, part 2 of 3, we sit down with clinical psychologist and body image expert Professor Gemma Sharp to unpack the complex relationship many of us have with our bodies.

Gemma shares what body dysmorphic disorder really looks like, why so many people struggle silently with body image concerns, and how social media, comparison culture and perfectionism can shape the way we see ourselves. We also explore the difference between normal body dissatisfaction and clinical body dysmorphia, the warning signs to look out for, and practical ways to start building a healthier relationship with your body.

This conversation is thoughtful, evidence-based and refreshingly honest.

If someone did want to read more about body dysmorphia, mental health assessments and cosmetic interventions, Gemma was lead expert on these guidelines: https://psychology.org.au/getmedia/5016efba-cb58-4cd5-a472-4313a1a70483/18aps-pp-cosmetic-surgery-p1a-web.pdf

Eating Disorders Victoria and CoRe-ED website where people can register for free. https://learn.eatingdisorders.org.au/courses/menopause-and-eating-disorders

Professor Gemma Sharp website https://sharp-group.com.au/

Looking for more Healthy Banter? Check out our website at https://www.healthybanter.com.au/ or follow us https://www.instagram.com/healthybanter.podcast/

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This episode is an important one. In part 1 of 3, we have a discussion with professor Gemma Sharp about eating disorders, body image, and how these issues are showing up earlier and earlier in our kids. This conversation unpacks early warning signs, body image concerns, what to say at home and when to seek help and where to start.

Gemma was a wonderful guest, providing clinical insight into this topic with her warm and caring nature. 

For links and further information, here is Prof Gemma Sharp's website link: https://sharp-group.com.au/

Here is Australian JEM chatbot (https://sharp-group.web.app/jem) and Canadian JEM chatbot (https://nedic.ca/jem/). 

ED ESSI chatbot is connected to clinical services (rather than being publicly available) as it provides a single session intervention which leads onto ongoing care but if someone did want to suggest ED ESSI for their clinical service, they can contact via email at admin@sharp-group.com.au. 

Here's a media piece about ED ESSI for more info: https://www.smh.com.au/lifestyle/health-and-wellness/it-gave-me-hope-how-a-single-ai-session-put-kelly-on-a-path-to-eating-disorder-recovery-20250526-p5m280.html

Looking for more Healthy Banter? Check out our website at https://www.healthybanter.com.au/ or follow us https://www.instagram.com/healthybanter.podcast/

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Preview to a new podcast - Healthy Banter. A podcast by women, about women, for women. Join Meg & Jules for real, honest conversations that blend clinical insights with everyday life. Together with their guests, they explore what it means to gain strength, build confidence, and live better—every single day.