The Mid•Point with Gabby Logan

This is a special episode in partnership with British Airways.

Gabby and Kenny Logan reminisce about the memorable trips they’ve taken over the course of their lives, from Kenny’s first long haul flight when he was initially selected to play rugby for Scotland, to Gabby’s trip to the Commonwealth Games as a 16 year old athlete; from an unforgettable break to Bali where they fully recharged, to and trips with their young children to Japan and South Africa which changed their perspectives on the world. They discuss how their approach to travel has changed over the years - Kenny no longer takes pride in arriving as close as he can to check-in closing, and Gabby is trying to slow down and enjoy the airport experience more. As well as the travel opportunities that have been unlocked now they are in midlife. Some travel experiences change you forever and stay with you long after you’ve touched down on home soil - even embarrassing moments that you might rather forget, as Gabby explains! So the Logan’s also give their top tips for making the most of your next trip.

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We are starting a new era of the podcast as we mean to go on, with a brilliant guest who epitomises all the things we celebrate on this show.

Laura Smyth decided to radically change her life at the midpoint, leaving her dependable job as a teacher for the uncertain world of stand up comedy. But just as she was getting into her stride, Laura was diagnosed with stage 3 breast cancer. She talks to Gabby about all she has learned from that experience, including how she dragged herself out of a pit of despair and resentment by learning to love herself fully and throwing herself unabashedly down what she describes as a wellness rabbithole. Laura also speaks about learning that stress is a sign to rest, and why she doesn’t feel bad about saying no to things anymore.

Laura’s story proves that it’s never too late to build the life you want, but also that things don’t always go to plan, so don’t wait until you’re facing death to really start living.

You can catch her on tour in 2024 - grab your tickets here.

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Journalist, broadcaster, and one half of the5 Live Breakfast presenting team, Rachel Burden, joins Gabby on the podcast this week. Rachel talks about how years of very early wake up calls have taught her not to get too paranoid about the amount of sleep she gets, instead looking at the bigger picture and the positive effects of being stimulated and nourished by a job you love. As a working mum of four, Rachel also discusses making life decisions as a family unit, striving to have the things you want in life rather than trying to have it all, and how her youngest child’s premature birth proved just how little we can actually control in life. Rachel also talks about the joy of taking up walking football in midlife, and her new project - Cafe Hope - which she’s hoping will provide some relief from the daily news cycle. Dr Danny Penman also joins to speak about his experience using meditation as pain relief after a serious paragliding accident, and how taking time out for meditation can actually save you time in the long run. His new bookDeeper Mindfulness: The New Way to Rediscover Calm in a Chaotic World is available now. 

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Gynaecologist and bestselling author Dr Jen Gunter is our special expert guest this week! Dr Gunter is here to shed some light on what is happening to the body when it goes through the menopause transition. Jen also takes your questions on everything from brain fog to weight gain and supplements to HRT - busting a few myths along the way! Hopefully you’ll feel better informed about what is happening to your body through this time, but also hopeful about what awaits on the other side of the menopause. You can find out more about Dr Gunter’s published works here including The Menopause Manifesto.

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It’s not every week we have a double olympic champion on the podcast, but this week rower Helen Glover is adding a touch of greatness to proceedings. Speaking directly from a training camp in Portugal ahead of what will hopefully be her fourth olympic games, Helen reveals what motivated her to come out of retirement - not once, but twice - and what it’s like juggling motherhood with the demands of being an elite athlete. Helen speaks about the way that her perspective has changed as she’s got older; how going through multiple pregnancies has actually made her feel stronger; and her anxieties about retiring completely from the job she still loves. Author of How To Build A Healthy Brain, Kimberley Wilson, also joins to discuss the relationship between exercise and brain health, and why every time you move your body you give your brain a boost!

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One of the nation’s best loved presenters, Matt Baker, brings his infectious enthusiasm to the podcast this week! By happy accident, this episode is all about midlife pivots and making bold steps towards doing more of the work you love. Listen to hear the unlikely story of how Matt came to be on our screens presenting Blue Peter;how his dyslexia set him up with what he describes as a high tolerance for failure and gave him a sense of fearlessness; how he navigated the role reversal that many of us go through in midlife when our parents begin to need more help and support; and there’s even an old fashioned midlife chat about the thankless task of trying to exercise with a bad back! Head Tutor at The Raymond Blanc Gardening School August Bernsteinalso joins to talk about making the most of your green spaces, and how you can get started on growing your own vegetables with nothing more than a windowsill. 

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Jill Douglas MBE has been part of some of the biggest sporting events on television for the last three decades, and this week she joins Gabby to reflect on how this Scottish farmer’s daughter became a self confessed newshound, then somewhat unexpectedly found herself presenting Rugby Special- and hasn’t looked back since! They discuss some of the secrets to longevity in an industry that was obsessed with youth, and how in midlife, Jill is more motivated than ever to keep doing the job she loves. Jill speaks about her longtime friend, former Scottish rugby player Doddie Weir; how his diagnosis of motor neurone disease sharpened her own focus, and the charity they helped build together before his death (My Name’5 Doddie Foundation). MND is most commonly diagnosed in midlife, so Professor of Neurology and Complex Disease Genetics at King’s College London, Ammar Al-Chalabi, also joins to discuss some of the misconceptions about the disease and some advancements that have been made thanks to fundraising in recent years.

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TW: This episode contains references to child sexual abuse, and discussions about suicide.

Gabby is joined by one of the great voices of our time; radio and television broadcaster, Nicky Campbell. They discuss Nicky’s professional versatility and esteemed career; his midlife diagnosis of ADHD; his great love of animals and how his beloved dog, Maxwell, helped him through a mental breakdown; his antics on The Masked Singer and why sometimes you need to do something purely for the fun of it. Nicky also talks about the moment he realised that the sexual abuse he and his classmates had suffered when they were at school was publicly known, and he had to confront what had happened to him in his childhood. Nicky decided to use his professional platform to help others do the same, and was inundated with calls and emails from survivors; some middle aged men had never told a soul about what had happened to them prior to speaking with Nicky. He speaks about how challenging that was at times, but also how galvanising survivors to seek justice and representing them at the Scottish Child Abuse Inquiry, is a great source of pride for him. They also speak to Simon Gunning - CEO of suicide prevention charity, CALM - about how talking openly about suicide as a human behaviour might actually help prevent it. 

You can find Nicky’s podcast Different here, and the episode of The Spark which Simon refers to (featuring Rory O’Connor), here. 

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On the cusp of taking on arguably the biggest job in women’s sport, six-time Women's Super League winning football manager, Emma Hayes, joins Gabby on the podcast this week. As well as revealing the relentlessness of life as a top coach, Emma speaks candidly about her struggle with Endometriosis; what it was like entering sudden menopause after having an emergency hysterectomy; the ecstasy and agony of making a huge life decision whilst in the fog of grief after losing her beloved father; how fighting for others can sometimes feel more natural than fighting for oneself, and that scheduling meetings with yourself might actually be the best form of selfcare! Menopause fitness coach and author of Owning Your Menopause: Fitter, Calmer, Stronger in 30 Days, Kate Rowe-Ham, also joins to talk about the kinds of exercise that could help women navigate midlife.  

TW: This episode does contain references to miscarriage.

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Hot off the Strictly Come Dancing tour and straight from presenting a live news bulletin, Gabby is joined today by Krishnan Guru-Murthy! Krishnan is a longstanding presenter of Channel 4 News and has reported from all over the world in the 26 years that he’s been part of the team, but it’s not his distinguished career that the two discuss at length today. Krish shares what Strictlygave him in terms of unbottling his fun side and reconnecting with frivolous fun in his fifties, and how the last year has seen him take back control and refuse to give up on his health. Dr Emily Porter, specialist dietician at The Gut Health Clinic, also joins to shed more light on ways you can improve your gut health by thinking about both the contents and timings of your meals, and how a pre-diabetic or T2 diabetes diagnosis does not mean you lose all agency over your blood sugar levels.

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TW: This episode contains references to eating disorders.

Model, content creator, and author, Louise Boyce aka Mama Still Got It, is stopping by Gabby’s podcast room this week. Louise shares her experiences as a very young model in the 90’s; how she healed her relationship with her body after suffering from bulimia; re-entered the industry as a ‘plus size model’ (at a healthy size 14) and made a successful career out of it. She explains how that journey has led her to where she is now: a middle-aged social media star, who makes thousands of people laugh with her videos depicting the mundane - and often challenging - aspects of motherhood. Stylist and founder of Green Edit, Charlotte Handley Green, is also on the podcast to talk about fashion and styling in midlife. She speaks about the importance of streamlining your wardrobe and building up ‘staples’ and ‘showstoppers'; how style is ageless and we should only be concerned with how our clothes make us feel - as well as the importance of good underwear!

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The Queen of Taupe joins Gabby on the podcast this week! Interior designer and entrepreneur, Kelly Hoppen CBE, shares some easy wins when it comes to refreshing your home interiors, as well as the secret to remaining energised and passionate about your work even when you’ve been doing it for five decades. Kelly shares why she doesn’t think she’ll ever retire, the morning routine that sustains her, finding love after divorce, and why age is irrelevant when it comes to beauty. As Gabby steps up her half marathon training and as part of her ongoing partnership with Runna, Olympic marathon runner and coach, Steph Davis, is also here to share her top tips for anyone thinking of getting into or returning to running in midlife.

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Former Editor-in-Chief of HELLO!magazine, and now creative consultant, coach, author, and podcast host, Rosie Nixon, drops by Gabby’s podcast room for a chat this week. From the outside, Rosie seemed to have it all in midlife; the job, the family, the glamorous lifestyle. But on the inside things felt very different, and although she loved her job, she was edging closer and closer to burnout. Rosie hit a breaking point and decided that she needed to make some radical changes; she wanted to enter her fifties on her terms. Rosie tells Gabby all that she’s come to realise through this process, including reassessing her values and redefining what success means to her at this stage of her life. They also speak with psychodynamic psychotherapist, Isobel Williams, about how it's never too late to make a little space for yourself and explore how talking therapy can be helpful at any age.

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For some, sleeping is as easy as closing your eyes, for others, it’s a nightly struggle. The cornerstone of good health can be frustratingly elusive, particularly in midlife, so we thought it was time to speak with an expert on all things the land of nod! Sleep Physiologist and the Chief Medical Officer of re-sleep, Stephanie Romiszewski, has some no-nonsense advice to share, based on scientific research and her years of clinical experience, including delivering Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for Insomnia (CBTi). You might be surprised to learn that bedtimes are out, and get up times are in; sleep aids and nighttime routines can sometimes increase sleep anxiety and actually keep you awake; changing your expectations of sleep might be key to making sleeping easier; and couples who sleep in separate beds might have had it right all along!

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TW: There are references to fertility treatment and miscarriage in this episode, so please take care whilst listening.

Journalist and broadcaster, Emma Barnett, is on the precipice of midlife, and so she joins Gabby this week to talk about how she feels about this next stage of life. Emma also sheds light on what it's like living with endometriosis - a condition which, as yet, has no cure - as well as what it’s like hosting Woman’s Hour,one of BBC Radio 4’s flagship shows;her journey through fertility treatment and why she felt compelled to share the realities of it; as well as the importance of surrounding yourself with people who have had similar experiences to you when you’re going through challenging or traumatic times. Dr Nighat Arif, a GP specialising in women’s health, also joins to talk about thyroid health and why women may see their thyroid function change as they age. Dr Arif’s book, The Knowledge, is out now.

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Singer songwriter Sophie Ellis-Bextor is Gabby’s guest this week! Gabby chats to her about being a working mum to five boys and what it’s like when your eldest is leaving home the same week that your youngest is starting school; how her legendary Kitchen Discos came about; hearing the voice of her inner critic less as she ages and the liberation this brings; and her ‘rate your childhood’ survey that you won’t be able to stop thinking about! Zoologist and author of Bitch, Lucy Cooke, also joins to talk about how sex and heteronormative bias have been present in the scientific study of animals since Darwin’s day, and have influenced the way we see the females of all sorts of species – including our own. Listen on to hear how Orcas recognised the power of post-menopausal women before humans did! 

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Today is a first for the podcast: it’s the first time our celebrity guest and our expert guest are a married couple, recording from the same house. Gary Neville is known for his glittering football career playing for Manchester United and England, while his wife, Emma, is a counsellor and Menopause Coach with her own online platform This Is Me. The couple chat to Gabby about everything from dealing with teenagers who find you painfully embarrassing, to Gary’s emotional attachment to oven chips. They both share their perspective on Emma’s early menopause, and discuss the many quirks of the Neville family – a modern day sporting dynasty!

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Warning: This episode contains some Christmas spoilers and is best enjoyed by adults only!

Kenny Logan joins Gabby this week for a walk down memory lane and to discuss the highs and lows of Logan Christmases past. From the best and worst gifts - including nipple tassels, dressing gowns, and unicycles - to food failures, and Santa spycams! As we look towards New Year they also reflect on the importance of Hogmanay in their household and ponder their new year's resolutions.

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TW: There are references to eating disorders in this episode. 

Psychotherapist and best-selling author, Julia Samuel, is back on the podcast for a festive special. Christmas is supposed to be a happy time of year, but despite our best intentions, it’s not always as simple as that! Between grief, heartbreak, illness, and challenging family dynamics, Christmas can be a difficult time to navigate. This is why Julia is back to respond to some of your questions and dilemmas and share some of the wisdom she’s gleaned from over 30 years’ worth of clinical experience.

Together they discuss navigating your first Christmas after the death of a loved one; ways you can support someone who is grieving at this time of year; how to try to make the best of your last Christmas with someone who has a terminal illness; developing rituals - which Julia describes as habits with soul – which might help you manage triggers; why sometimes family issues such as favouritism are best discussed in January; and managing clashes of personality between your partner and your parents. Plus, why the turkey is almost certainly not going to be perfect!

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Double GRAMMY award winner LeAnn Rimes dropped by to chat with Gabby this week about all the lessons she’s learned on her way to the midpoint. LeAnn opens up about surviving child stardom and how she ended up divorced and in rehab by the age of thirty; rebuilding her sense of self in the early stages of new romance; healing through music and finding her place within a blended family; and how middle age has bestowed on her more confidence than ever, plus a newfound passion for tennis! LeAnn will be back in the UK to finish her latest world tour at The London O2 on 8 May 2024. Personal Trainer and J7 Health Centre owner, Javeno Mclean, also joins Gabby to speak about how he is determined to help everyone – regardless of age or ability – to benefit from exercise. Disabled people travel far and wide to train with Javeno, but through social media he’s encouraging people around the world to reframe their thinking and focus on what people can do rather than what they can’t do.

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TW: The episode contains references to suicide and depression, so please take care whilst listening. If you are affected by anything you hear in this episode, you can reach out toThe Samaritansfor free on 116 123.

Journalist, broadcaster, and new host of University Challenge,Amol Rajan, is Gabby’s guest this week. Amol speaks very openly about how he’s recalibrating his sense of self since turning 40 and learning how to live with grief since his beloved father died. He also chats about his upbringing; how being raised by immigrant parents informed his sense of ambition, and why he thinks we should reclaim that word. They also discuss balancing work and parenting, and how being a father to a new-born again means that Amol is having to adjust what he calls “the hobs of life” – listen to find out exactly what that means! Alongside Amol, we also hear from host of the Financial Times’ Money Clinic Podcast, Claer Barrett, because what retirement looks like for a lot of midpointers is changing, and Claer has some advice on how to prepare financially for this.

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TW: There are references to pregnancy loss and infertility in this episode.

Presenter, producer, and journalist, Anna Richardson, joins Gabby this week to talk about everything from returning to education in your 50’s, to the lonely road of infertility; from how difficult yet vital it is to speak truth to power, to what a memory palace is! Beauty guru Nadine Baggott is also back with lots of beauty tips for our midlife skin, including what neck cream you really need - the answer might surprise you!

For more anecdotes and wisdom from Anna, check out her podcast It Can't Just Be Me.

Here are some useful links to products Nadine recommends in this episode:

Retinal Serum, Geek and Gorgeous

Retinal Intensive Cream, Avène (USA)

The Crystal Retinal Family, Medik8

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This week, we have an expert taking centre stage! Psychosexual and Relationship Therapist and Psycho-Sexologist, Kate Moyle, is here to talk sex and intimacy. It’s something many people still struggle to talk about, but midlife can radically change the landscape when it comes to sex; certainly, when we asked The Mid.Pointers for questions to put to Kate, you delivered! In this episode, Kate tries her best to answer those questions on everything from libido imbalance to fetishes, pelvic floor strength to sex after parenthood. If you want to explore this topic further, get a copy of Kate’s book The Science of Sex: Every Question About Your Sex Life Answered.

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Gabby is joined by one of the most recognisable names in the British restaurant world: Michelin Star chef, restaurateur, and broadcaster, Angela Hartnett OBE. Angela shares her experience of going through the menopause in somewhere as hot and pressurised as a top kitchen; how she’s learned in midlife that sometimes you need to ask for help; where her love of food comes from and why food and family are so intertwined; as well as the things she’s doing to ensure that she’s thriving when she is 90 years of age! Medical Scientist and Public Health Nutritionist, Dr Federica Amati, also joins to discuss the science behind her new book: Recipes For A Better Menopause.

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WARNING: This episode contains strong language.

Comedian, presenter, and author, Dara Ó Briain, joins Gabby to talk about how midlife is treating him; how it has expanded his comedy and allowed him to become more of a storyteller; and what it’s like touring alongside being a dad and getting usurped in popularity by their new dog. Co-author of Ravenous, Henry Dimbleby, also joins to discuss the state of our national food system and why it needs to radically change to protect our future health and the environment. But fear not, despite the severity of the outlook, Dara reassures that we’ll never run out of things to laugh about!

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This week’s guest has been compared with the Vicar of Dibley, and she doesn’t mind one bit! This week, the Reverend Kate Bottley brings all the warmth and humour that Dawn French’s character was famous for, and then some. Gabby and Kate discuss all the big topics in this episode: love, death, and skinny dipping! Professor Mike Tipton also joins them to talk about best practices for those who are new to wild swimming, and Kate shares why it’s the one hobby she has stuck with. 

Below are some links to studies Mike references in this episode:

The Physiological Society - Cold water immersion: kill or cure?

British Journal of Sports Medicine - Cold water therapies: minimising risks

BMJ Case Reports - Open water swimming as a treatment for major depressive disorder

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Property expert and broadcaster, Sarah Beeny, chats with Gabby this week about the opportunities that you can unlock in midlife, the joy of being a groupie mum, and the breast cancer diagnosis which she refuses to let define her. Sarah’s new book, The Simple Life: How I Found Home, charts her life through the properties she’s restored, renovated, and loved, and they discuss the importance of making a house a home. They also discuss all things property finance and pensions with host of the Financial Times' Money Clinic podcast and author of What They Don’t Teach You About Money, Claer Barrett.  

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Gabby and Kenny get together for a wee debrief after completing Kenny Logan’s Rugby World Cup Challenge, in memory of their great friend Doddie Weir and in aid of My Name’5 Doddie Foundation. They talk about the highs and lows of the weeklong cycle-walk challenge, carrying the Ireland v Scotland Rugby World Cup match ball from Edinburgh to the game in Paris, as well as what it meant to them to meet so many people affected by Motor Neuron Disease along the way.

You can still donate to this great cause by clicking here.

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Few former politicians have had successful reincarnations as television presenters, but Ed Balls is one of them. He joins Gabby to talk about how he is loving the so-called midlife crisis because it’s only really at the midpoint that he’s been able to say yes to the many things he would like to try – including famously, dancing on Strictly! Ed also discusses what raising a young family within the world of politics was like, the new podcast he's cohosting Political Currency, and Gabby gets his thoughts on how middle-aged women in particular could have a huge say in the next General Election. They also speak to psychiatrist and author of How To Build A Healthy BrainandUnprocessed, Kimberley Wilson, about the significance of diet and exercise on brain health and what we need to be doing in midlife to give ourselves the best chance against Dementia.

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Gabby’s guest this week is a comedian, writer, and TV presenter, and he’s also turning the midlife crisis on its head! For Lee Mack, the midlife crisis is more like the midlife question mark: a time when you question some of the ways you’ve been told to live. Lee shares why things like meditation, veganism, and sobriety, have become increasingly important to him at the midpoint, as well as why he loves time off more and more but would trade it all for a shot at playing football for FC Barcelona! Entrepreneur and behaviour change coach, Andy Ramage, also joins to talk about how he is helping people who want to take a break from drinking alcohol. 

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Presenter, author, and outdoor evangelist, Julia Bradbury, is with Gabby on the podcast this week. Julia talks about how her breast cancer diagnosis has had a profound effect on her midlife, and how it partly inspired her new book Walk Yourself Happy.As well as the power of walking, they discuss the other lifestyle habits which Julia researched for the book, such as nutrition and breathwork, and how this has informed changes in her own life. Determined to give herself the best fighting chance against cancer and secure her longevity, this is an uplifting reminder that we have agency over our own bodies even in the face of illness. Dr Caroline Leek, founder of Fruit Fly Collective, also joins to discuss how to talk to children about cancer and signposts valuable resources, such as Parenting With Cancer, which families can use when they receive a cancer diagnosis.

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Trigger Warning: Miscarriage is discussed in this episode, so please take care whilst listening.

We are finishing our mini-series featuring extraordinary people with inspiring stories to tell by hearing from former RAF fast jet pilot, Mandy Hickson.

Mandy always dreamed of following in her grandfather’s footsteps and becoming a pilot, but in her early adulthood, this was simply not an option: women were not allowed to be pilots in the RAF. But as soon as that rule changed, there was no stopping Mandy! She became only the second female to fly a Tornado GR4 on the front line, and in her career, she completed 45 missions over Iraq and three duty tours.

In this episode, Mandy speaks about how difficult it is to become a fighter pilot (regardless of gender), what it was like knowing she was a test case and how she overcame that, what the military taught her about unselfish behaviour and how there is always more to be gained from working as a team, as well as what it was like juggling being a mum with a high-pressure role in the air force, and the issues this still poses for female fast jet pilots today.

Since leaving the RAF, Mandy has set up her own business and travels the country speaking at schools and businesses and sharing all she’s learned. Mandy has also published a memoir, An Officer Not A Gentleman.

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Trigger Warning: This week's episode contains a conversation about the loss of a child.

This is the second instalment of our special mini-series focusing on extraordinary people with remarkable stories to share. Gabby was inspired to break away from the usual roster of celebrities and experts, and instead spotlight ordinary people who have real insight when it comes to overcoming adversity; Fiona Spargo-Mabbs has exactly that.

In 2014, Fiona’s worst nightmare became a reality when a police officer stood on her doorstep in the early hours of the morning and informed her that her youngest son, Dan, was in intensive care. This was the start of the worst few days of her life, as specialists raced against time to counter the effects of an extremely strong dose of MDMA (ecstasy) which Dan had consumed whilst at a rave with his friends. All of them had taken the drug, but Dan had been the one who had unknowingly taken the dose which was twelve times stronger than had caused deaths in the past.

Dan never came home, and in the years since, Fiona has had to come to terms with her family’s new reality. She talks about this, and how she and her husband, Tim, have thrown themselves into making sure that teenagers and parents have the drug education they need in order to avoid any other young person dying needlessly. You can find out more about The Daniel Spargo-Mabbs Foundation here, and purchase Fiona’s book I Wish I’d Knownhere.

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This month, Gabby presents a special mini-series focusing on extraordinary people with remarkable stories to share. The Oprah Winfrey Show was formative viewing for Gabby, and having rediscovered its early episodes, she was inspired to break away from the usual roster of celebrities and experts and instead spotlight ordinary people who have shown remarkable strength of character and overcome adversity. Over the course of the next three episodes you'll hear three very different stories, but all of them will leave you feeling inspired.

We’re kicking off the series with a power couple; Ed and Lois Jackson. Back in 2017, Ed was enjoying his career as a professional rugby player and he and Lois were looking forward to their upcoming nuptials, but a split-second misjudgement at a barbecue changed the trajectory of both of their lives forever. Ed suffered an almost catastrophic spinal cord injury and was lucky to survive the accident. They speak about what it was like being told that he would never walk again, and Ed’s extraordinary reaction to that news. We hear how they have navigated the highs and lows of the last six years, how Ed went from being paralysed in all four limbs to climbing Yr Wyddfa/ Snowdon in 12 months, and how reframing and gratitude helped them to find a greater purpose and form their charity Millimetres 2 Mountains.

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To round out our series of summer specials, we’ve combed the archive for some of the most insightful chats we’ve had about the menopause. There are a myriad of symptoms associated with menopause and it manifests differently for everyone, so it’s important we continue to talk about it and to share helpful tips that make this stage of life a little easier to navigate. 

In this episode, you’ll hear from writer Lorraine Candy, model Penny Lancaster, MP Carolyn Harris who campaigned to make HRT more affordable for women in England, TV presenters Davina McCall and Lorraine Kelly, plus functional nutritionist Pippa Campbell, who explains why our body shape may change as we go through the menopause.

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This is the second of our special compilation episodes this summer; perfect for you to dip in and out of on your holidays, or to accompany you on any long journeys. This week we’re focusing on a topic that comes up a lot on The Mid.Point: relationships. Be they romantic, familial, or purely platonic, they can often take on a new importance when navigating midlife. 

Like everything, relationships change and evolve over time and sometimes they no longer serve us by the midpoint, hence why many people find themselves navigating the end of a significant partnership or friendship at this time of life. However, scientific research suggests that there are anti-ageing properties bound up in social interactions and a sense of community, so it’s vitally important that we keep making friendships throughout our lives. But it can be hard to put yourself out there, especially when it comes to dating. These are all aspects that our wonderful guests - Elizabeth Day, Phil Neville, Rob Rinder, Jane Fallon, Kelly Cates, Kirsty Gallacher, Kenny Logan, sobriety advocate Matt Pink, and Professor Rose Anne Kenny – all touch on in this week’s episode. 

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School’s out, and so is the rule book! This summer we’re bringing you a special mini-series which takes you on a trip through the archive, showcasing the best snippets from our vast and varied line up of guests. Each week we’ll be focusing on a topic that’s particularly pertinent to those of us at the midpoint, and this week we’re celebrating the joys of getting older. 

There’s still a pervading sense of pessimism when it comes to the mainstream narrative on ageing, but the chats on this podcast over the last three years have proved that most midlifers are anything but! Celebrities and experts all agree that there are so many good things that come with midlife. In this episode, you’ll hear the likes of Sharleen Spiteri, Colin Murray, Edith Bowman, Trevor Nelson, Zoe Lyons, Nihal Arthanayake, Phil Neville, Olivia Williams, and fitness expert, James Smith, being positively old!

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Author of It’s Not A Diet and founder of supplement brand Will Powder,  Davinia Taylor, is here to explain the principles behind her new book Hack Your Hormones. You may well remember Davinia from her days as an actress on Hollyoaks and being a renowned party girl in the 90’s - painting London red with The Primrose Set! But gone are those hedonistic days, and in the last 14 years, Davinia has learned lots from her own journey from alcoholic to wellness advocate. She talks to Gabby all about biohacking, and ways you can support and stimulate certain hormones such as dopamine, to get the best out of your mind and body. They also discuss ways to optimise and track your sleep, and the things to avoid in the ingredient lists of many household foods.

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By its very nature, this expert episode on grief is raw and emotional, and some tears were shed in the making of it. But Psychotherapist, best-selling author, and podcaster, Julia Samuel, is here to guide us through the many shades of grief; something which impacts all our lives in one way or another and particularly in midlife. 

Julia very generously answers your questions on everything from practical ways to support loved ones who are grieving, dealing with living losses such as divorce, and visualisation techniques which can help to stop you from ruminating on the “what if’s” that come with a loss which is open-ended or without conclusion. Alongside her practical advice, Julia also speaks about some of the fundamentals when it comes to bereavement; why grieving always takes longer than anyone wants, the power of walking and talking, the compounding effect of multiple losses, and how grieving together helps us to build strong familial bonds.  

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Comedian, radio presenter, and brand-new host of The Late Late Show, Patrick Kielty, is reaching new heights at the midpoint! Not only does he bring the laughs this week but he also brings the wisdom, including the importance of creating opportunities for yourself, how not to prepare for the London Marathon, and why you must make sure the material at your wake is good! Patrick also explains how one drunk phone call from a pub car park in rural Ireland turned into a life in LA, getting married to Cat Deeley, and the birth of their two children. Gabby also reunites Patrick with physical activity expert and celebrity trainer, Professor Greg Whyte OBE, who speaks about the importance of movement and strength training as we get older - Guinness less so, sorry Paddy. 

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Full disclosure: this episode is highly likely to make you hungry! Gabby is joined by one of the most revered chefs in the country, MasterChef: The Professionals judge and Mere Restaurant chef owner, Monica Galetti. Monica grew up in Samoa imbibing the food centric culture there, before travelling to New Zealand to train as a chef and landing in the UK in Chef Michel Roux Jr’s Michelin kitchen! After juggling competing priorities for many years, pressures on her business and her family meant Monica had to step back from MasterChef last year. Monica explains what she learned in that time, and how she’s now finding the joy in what she does again. Monica also talks about finding her "fit crew" and feeling more confident than ever in the gym, the importance of a happy kitchen, as well as her beloved “boys” – her three dogs! Sporting Director, Calvin Mudd, also joins to explain what Canicross is and why it might be you and your canine companion’s new favourite form of exercise. 

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We’ve got another expert episode for you, and this time we’re tackling a subject that’s been making the headlines of late… AI! We’ve all heard about it, but what do most of us really know about artificial intelligence beyond the scary stories? How is it going to change our everyday lives, and how prevalent is it already? Gabby is putting all your questions to tech journalist and AI commentator, Lara Lewington.

Lara has presented and reported for the BBC’s flagship technology programme, Click, since 2011, and she recently made A Documentary: By ChatGPT for BBC Radio 4. Lara explains some of the pitfalls of AI, as well as some of the ways we might be able to use it to our advantage when it comes to things like healthcare, drug discovery, and policing social media. She also explains what data is harvested from us already (often unknowingly), and how personal data trackers are being used to help prevent illnesses and increase longevity – things which are all made possible by AI. 

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It’s been an interesting career trajectory for TV presenter, Alex Jones; from having Davina McCall invigilate her university exams whilst competing on a reality TV show, to broadcasting to millions every night hosting BBC’s The One Show. But there is always more to a story like this than meets the eye… And there is a reason Alex has remained at the helm of the weeknight show for the last 12 years. Now at 46 years old, we find out what she’s learned en route to the midpoint and how she balances work with being mother to three children under six years old! Alex’s youthful outlook on life shines through her wealth of hilarious anecdotes, from bartering for directions with paparazzi to bargaining with Chris Evans over chips and champagne. They are also joined by Uju Asika, writer of Raising Boys To Do Better,to talk abouthow we can support boys navigating the modern world and offer practical tips on how to bring up kind children in an oftentimes prejudiced world. 

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From the U.N.’s International Court of Justice to the bejeweled Strictly ballroom at Blackpool, this week’s guest’s journey to the midpoint has been quite an extraordinary one. Gabby chats with barrister and broadcaster Rob Rinder MBE, ahead of the release of his debut novel The Trial. They talk about everything from why it’s important that we keep in mind the myriad of human reasons why people behave in the way they do, how forgiveness is sacred but is not the same as forgetting and how Rob lives in forgiveness even though his family were victims of the Holocaust, to why he can’t bear the “farting smugness” of some yoga classes and why he will forever be a match-maker and a romantic! Psychotherapist and best-selling author, Julia Samuel, also joins to offer an expert view on inherited trauma and behaviours, and practical ways to help you deal with that – which is the focus of her latest book Every Family Has A Story.

Julia mentions the work of Charles Duhigg around habit forming and you can find out more about his work here. The latest of Rob’s factual series, The Holyland and Us - Our Untold Stories, is also still available to watch on BBC iPlayer. 

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In the interests of fairness - and keeping everyone in the family happy - Gabby’s son Reuben joins her on the podcast this week, ahead of leaving home to begin his professional career as a rugby player. It’s a very open discussion about what it means to be a teenage boy in the modern world, including Reuben’s take on masculinity and whether toxic influencers online actually have any influence at all. They also speak about how Reuben dealt with anxiety and the pressures of school, being added to the club WhatsApp group and preparing to enter a professional workplace for the first time, as well as what it’s like being mum to a sporty child – and the ways they (inevitably) find you annoying! 

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This week’s guest is usually the one asking the questions, more accustomed to interviewing some of the world’s biggest R&B stars, but today it’s his turn to come up with the answers! Gabby is joined by critically acclaimed radio host and DJ Trevor Nelson MBE, to talk about how he’s feeling about life on the cusp of his 60th birthday. Trevor talks about the power of saying no, the secret to longevity in an industry that’s preoccupied with youth, enjoying the simple things in life and why he is absolutely a dog person! Sarah Gilchrist from Gilchrist Performance also joins to talk about how you can optimise sleep and recovery when – like Trevor – you don’t work a traditional 9-5. 

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Kenny joins Gabby on the anniversary of his Prostatectomy to talk about how the diagnosis affected him and the changes his body has gone through in the year since his operation. It’s also a frank and honest chat about how the couple have navigated this together – and yes, there is quite a lot of chat about erectile function! They also discuss the fear of saying the wrong thing in today’s world, how signing up to challenges can really help to keep you motivated around the 50 mark, and a rather memorable holiday story involving one delirious Kenny and a thermometer!

If you or someone you know have recently been diagnosed with prostate cancer, you might like to listen back to the special episode Gabby and Kenny recorded alongside Kenny’s Consultant Urologist, Declan Cahill. If you want to know more about Declan Cahill's work you will find his website here, and Prostate Cancer UK has some very useful links and resources, too. Crucially, like many men, Kenny did not experience any symptoms before his diagnosis and sadly we know that 1 man dies of prostate cancer every 45 minutes, so if you or someone close to you wants to get checked, ask your GP for a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) and urine test - two simple tests that save lives.

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Journalist, podcaster, and former Editor in Chief, Lorraine Candy, spent her career writing for and about women in some of the nation’s best-known publications, but when she started experiencing what she calls her “physical and emotional unraveling”, she had no idea that what she was experiencing was in fact the perimenopause. Now, Lorraine is on a mission to share all that she’s learned about the menopause, to ensure that no woman feels alone or ashamed if their minds and bodies begin to change, and her new book What’s Wrong With Me? 101 Things Midlife Women Need to Know is out this week. Gabby and Lorraine also speak with warmth and humour about issues that impact all midpointers, such as dealing with living losses, finding a new sense of identity, as well as the many upsides of midlife! Life coach, Ed Haddon, is also on hand to discuss how coaching can be a great way of re-establishing your purpose in midlife. 

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The gut is often referred to as ‘the second brain’ and Dr Megan Rossi is here to tell us why! Megan - aka The Gut Health Doctor - is here to shine a light on our gut microbiome’s incredible potential, a fascinating and relatively new area of scientific research which Dr Rossi has dedicated her career to. She talks about how the brain and the gut interact and why paying attention to the health of your gut microbiome can positively affect your mental health, not only that, but you can also increase your gut’s ability to recycle oestrogen by eating certain foods – an important note for women in midlife. Megan is also here to break down some of the myths around carbs, gluten, and food intolerances - including how to reintroduce important prebiotic foods you thought didn’t agree with you - and we also put your questions to Megan. Plus, if you’re a frequent flyer, be sure to listen to the end for top tips on how to avoid Mile High IBS!

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We’re keeping it in the family this week, with Gabby’s daughter Lois Logan joining her to talk about something that many teenagers (and parents) will be dealing with right now: leaving school and revising for exams! Lois and Gabby also discuss their different perspectives on things like beauty standards on social media, the moment your children become teenagers and no longer want to spend as much time with you, and what it’s like seeing your mum go through the menopause just as your hormones kick into life. Lois might be the youngest guest ever on The Mid.Point, but she certainly has plenty of insight to share. 

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This week, Gabby takes a deep dive into the biology of ageing with Professor Rose Anne Kenny. Professor Kenny is a physician, researcher, and the founding principal investigator of The Irish LongituDinal study on Ageing. Rose Anne is also a best-selling author, and Gabby has read her book - Age Proof: The New Science of Living a Longer and Healthier Life -cover to cover! They discuss key topics from her research, including what epigenetics are and how we can influence them and our biological ageing, the commonalities that people living in the so-called Blue Zones have and what this teaches us about how to live long and healthy lives, and how research shows it’s never too late to make a difference to how you’re ageing on the inside. Professor Kenny also answers your questions on everything from supplements and exercise, to how much we should eat as we get older.  

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Despite still being in her thirties, Olympic gold medallist and British sporting icon, Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill, has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to navigating big transitions in life. Having retired from professional sport in 2016, Jess talks about how she had been so focused on being the best heptathlete she could be, that despite being happy to retire, she had no plan B when the time came. However, motherhood had set her on a journey to learning more about the significance of hormonal cycles and changes, and from this a new passion was born! Jess speaks about how she's determined to help women unlock their performance goals and understand more about their bodies, and GP and menopause specialist Dr Louise Newson also joins to discuss the hormonal changes that can occur particularly in midlife.

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Gabby welcomes broadcaster and writer, Adrian Chiles, to the podcast room! Adrian speaks with his usual candour about how getting his dream job set him on a path of self-reflection, resulting in newfound religion and a midlife diagnosis of ADHD. Adrian also challenges society’s perception of what alcoholism is, and shares some of what he’s learned from writing his book The Good Drinker. We also hear from Matt Pink, Co founder of the Dryy app, about his decision to adopt an alcohol free life and how he’s helping other people to reevaluate their relationship with alcohol. 

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It’s not every day you get to chat to a Hollywood actress, but this week, Gabby does exactly that! Olivia Williams has starred in some hugely successful films, such as Sixth Sense, Rushmore and The Heart of Me. She has rubbed shoulders with some of the biggest names in the business, and yet she has managed to retain a certain level of anonymity which has enabled her to enjoy her family life. She speaks about the double-edged nature of fame when you’re an actress, the importance of not caring, and of course, what it is like to be playing The Queen Consort in The Crown. Olivia also speaks very openly about living with cancer following her diagnosis in 2018, and through sharing her own experience, she explains exactly why early detection is so important. Functional Nutrition and Weight Loss Practitioner, Pippa Campbell, also gives her thoughts on eating the right foods for your metabolic type, something she fully explores in her book Eat Right Lose Weight.  

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Kenny joins Gabby for another special episode this week!

The couple come together to talk about the prospect of their soon to be empty nest and how best to prepare for it, as well as how to support your children through tough exam periods.

Gabby also puts your questions to Kenny, and they discuss everything from each other’s pet peeves to what lessons their children are teaching them about life! 

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This week’s guest is not (quite!) at the midpoint of life yet, but as a retired sportsperson, James Haskell has already experienced many things we go through in midlife.

It’s sometimes said that sportspeople have two deaths, but if anything, James has just had multiple rebirths. Since retiring from rugby, he’s tried his hand at many things and is now a successful podcaster, author, and DJ. Given that he is knowledgeable on such a wide range of topics, Gabby puts your questions to him as today’s “expert” – although he prefers “Agony Aunt” as a title!

He shares his thoughts on everything from fitness to mental health, physical recovery to career change. James’ latest book Approach Without Caution: The 5-Step Plan to Take Control of Your Life is out now.

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Writer and host of the very successful podcast How To Fail, Elizabeth Day, has come very close to turning failure into an academic discipline! And she is sharing all she has learned with Gabby this week. 

Elizabeth’s podcasts and books have helped to reshape the language around failure and now she is hoping to do the same with friendship, starting with her new book Friendaholic: Confessions of a Friendship Addict. 

As you'll hear, it turns out that the mid point is a great time to take stock of your friend inventory! Elizabeth does also discuss how she is coming to terms with infertility in midlife, so please take care whilst listening.

Nutritionist and author, Rhiannon Lambert, is also here to discuss how our gut microbiome changes in midlife and ways we can mitigate negative side effects such as bloating. 

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Strictly dancer and now judge, Anton Du Beke, chats to Gabby about show business and the importance of honing your craft, why he couldn’t have imagined being a dad before he was fifty, and of course, what Strictly has taught him about women in their midlife!

Former Olympian and Physical Activity Expert , Professor Greg Whyte, is also on the podcast to talk about “the bare minimum” when it comes to movement, and how it might be more than you think…

Fear not, Greg has plenty of tips for how we can incorporate more exercise into our daily lives! You can find out more about Greg’s work here. 

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We have a new addition to The Mid•Point podcast!

We are letting experts take centre stage in a new topic-led strand to educate us in a series of episodes on subjects that are of particular interest to midlifers.

For this first one, Gabby is joined by health and beauty journalist Nadine Baggott, who is here to answer all your questions on anything from dry pre-menopausal skin to the pro’s and cons of botox, from hair loss hacks to which five products middle-aged people should invest in without breaking the bank.

Nadine also talks about how over time she has come to embrace her face and body for all that it is, and see beauty as a more holistic enterprise which starts from within.

You can find more tips plus product and treatment reviews on Nadine’s Youtube channel and Instagram.

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Kenny Logan and Kirsty Gallacher join Gabby for a special bonus episode, focusing on special friendships – special, but not that special you understand! Gabby and Kirsty have been best friends since before Gabby and Kenny became an item, and so Kenny explains how he felt he joined their relationship and not the other way around.

They try to get to the bottom of why some people’s partners are closer to some friends than others, and the importance of trust and respect in any friendship but particularly in midlife.

Things take a slightly strange turn when throuples are discussed and we hear an awful lot about one particular pair of Wimbledon boxer shorts, but do listen out for Kirsty’s wonderful impressions of Kenny!

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This week’s guest is a sports presenter, broadcaster and fitness fanatic who Gabby knows very well. In fact, they've known each other for over 25 years and Gabby is godmother to one of her sons!

In this frank and honest chat, Kirsty Gallacher talks to Gabby about dating in later life and the pros and cons of dating apps. They discuss why a lot of people lose their confidence after a break up, and Kirsty opens up about the struggles she had after her divorce, which were laid bare for all the country to see.

Gabby and Kirsty are also joined by relationship expert, Annabelle Knight, who gives some sage advice for anyone looking to get back into dating in midlife. The key might just be to pick up the phone...

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This week’s guest has had two very successful careers to date, firstly as a footballer and secondly as a TV presenter, who has hosted BBC’s Match of the Day for the last 24 years! So, you could say that Gary Lineker knows a thing or two about adapting to changes that the rolling years can bring. He speaks about the contentment he has found in solitude as he gets older, and why sometimes a canine friend is all you need.

At the midpoint, Gary also found a new passion for cooking – although he reveals why he won’t be cooking on our screens any time soon! – and became more vocal and politically engaged on Twitter which led to some very positive experiences, primarily welcoming refugees into his home.

We also have hair expert Michael Douglas back on the podcast, to give some tips to both men and women who might be struggling with hair loss in midlife.

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Comedian, Zoe Lyons, has learned some midlife lessons the hard way, after going through what she describes as a “pretty blokey” midlife crisis. Thankfully, she is out the other side – two sports cars lighter! – and Zoe shares all she learned from that experience with us on this week’s podcast.

From making a success of her career in the brutal world of comedy to the grief and relief she feels for our body as she navigates midlife, from the gutsy confidence of chin hair to menopause rage, and why developing alopecia at 50 finally made her “grow up” – Gabby and Zoe discuss it all!   

They are also joined by Menopause Fitness Coach, Kate Rowe-Ham, to talk about how alcohol hits differently in midlife and what benefits can be felt from forming new habits.

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The Mid•Point is back! In this special episode, Gabby is joined by her husband, Kenny, to bring you a flavour of what’s to come in Series 7, which will be dropping into your feeds from Wednesday, 22 February. 

Former international rugby player, Kenny, got a taste for the podcast game when he featured on The Prostate Episode, but that’s not what he joins Gabby to discuss this week. The Logans take a light-hearted look back on the week, including Kenny’s beloved Scotland’s achievements in the Six Nations rugby championship, Gabby’s late night escapades in Edinburgh, how Kenny has come to terms with his dyslexia, and what Valentine’s Day means for those in long-term relationships – including tales of how Kenny wooed Gabby back in 1999!

Please get in touch via The Mid Pointers facebook group if you have any relationship or family dilemmas that you’d like Gabby and Kenny to discuss in future episodes.

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Saturday night telly, sports coverage and breakfast on Good Morning Britain, Ben Shephard has truly done it all.

He tells Gabby about his current training plan and remembers turning up to a dance audition in a pair of dirty rugby shorts. He also considers what makes a happy, long-lasting marriage.  

Gabby and Ben are also joined by the mentor, coach and charity fundraiser Ivan Hollingsworth - one of 25 inspiring people from Ben's forthcoming book 'Humble Heroes.' 

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A stalwart of the stand-up circuit and renowned actor, Kerry Godliman has a CV that many would envy.

Kerry tells Gabby about how doing stand-up can feel like having a superpower. She talks about being comfortable in her skin as a mid-life performer, and about losing the ‘bolshy’ approach with which she manoeuvred the male-dominated world of comedy in the 1990’s.

Gabby is also joined by Dr Julia Jones. A self described 'smart-wellness' expert, Dr Julia practises a number of bio-hacks in order to help people live healthier for longer. Gabby and Dr Julia discuss the benefits of fostering a healthy gut biome, fasting, music and cold water immersion.

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He’s been on our screens since 1998, and Presenter Vernon Kay is still keeping us company. 

Vernon tells Gabby how he found himself on TV after an initial modelling career. They discuss the highs and lows of the digital age, how he first came to know about the menopause whilst he was working as a school caretaker and how ‘contentment’ could be the ultimate goal. 

Gabby and Vernon are also joined by James Boardman a.k.a. ’The Man Coach’ - a former Sergeant Royal Marine Commando who strives to help men lead fulfilling lives.

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Having been a regular on our screen for so many years, Kate Silverton has achieved the thing so many of us are scared to do: change career in midlife. Gabby and Kate discuss the sense of purpose she now has from her new job, having children later in life and the value of compassion in parenting.

Gabby is also joined by Dr Sara Matthews to discuss the menopause, HRT, and what is being done to break down the stigma that surrounds them.

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With a career that spans nearly 4 decades, Jo Whiley has many stories to share.

Gabby and Jo discuss how her love of music led her to an incredible career and also a marriage that has lasted over 30 years, plus they talk about how she tackled the negative reporting around her BBC Drivetime show and how her sister has always kept her grounded.

Gabby is also joined by Kate Rowe-Ham a menopause coach and founder of @owningyourmenopause, to speak about the importance of exercise.

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After spending 12 years in prison for crimes he did not commit, presenter and British broadcast journalist Raphael Rowe has since paved a way for himself and reclaimed his life by dedicating his career to shining a light on the prison system and miscarriages of justice.

Gabby and Raphael discuss how prison made him the man he is today, how he remained focussed and determined during his time in prison as well as what it has been like building relationships, raising a family and learning to trust people again.

Gabby is also joined by Ted Rosner, co-founder of Redemption Roasters, a prison-based coffee roastery, to speak about the importance of providing employment opportunities for ex-offenders.

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Getting out of her comfort zone is less and less appealing for author and television producer Jane Fallon; she is much happier doing the things that make her happy. Gabby and Jane discuss the stigma around the menopause, her journey into published written work and how that her career in television has allowed her to write such gripping books. 

Jane Fallon is well known for being a producer on BBC's Eastenders, and more recently for her super toned arms along with her array of incredible novels including: Faking Friends, Getting Rid of Matthew and Worst Idea Ever. 

Gabby is also joined by Yoga teacher and Life coach Mia Togo High, to shine a light on the importance of movement in our day to day lives.

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As he gets and older, and possibly wiser (which he debates), award-winning comedian, actor, writer, television presenter and author, Matt Lucas  reflects on how his father's death at the age of 52 inspired him on to embark on a weight loss journey, how his friendships have ebbed and flowed over the years as well as the twists and turns of his career that have lead him to where he is today.

Matt is best known for his work on BBC sketch comedy series Little Britain and Come Fly With Me, as well as blockbuster hits such as Alice in Wonderland and Bridesmaids. He has been a staple in many of our lives, making us laugh and bringing joy to our hearts.

Gabby is also joined by High Performance Consultant and sleep expert, Sarah Gilchrist of Gilchrist Performance, to shine a light on the importance of sleep health in mid-life and healthy sleep habits to implement to live a happy and balanced life.

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The Midpoint is back and in this very special episode, we’re starting with a story close to Gabby’s heart. In a series of candid conversations between Gabby and her husband Kenny, together they chart his journey with prostate cancer.

From shocking diagnosis to surgery finally, recovery, you'll join them at each stage hearing the pre-op jitters, the challenges faced afterwards and the answer to that critical question: how's the sex life?

On the way, they meet Kenny's consultant Urologist, Declan Cahill who explains what's really going on in the prostate and the operating theatre. He also debunks some of the biggest myths surrounding the third biggest cancer killer in the UK.

It's National Prostate Cancer Awareness Month and we know that 1 man dies of prostate cancer every 45 minutes. If you, or someone close to you, wants to get checked, ask your GP for a Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) and urine test. Two simple tests that save lives.

For more information, head over to www.prostatecanceruk.org.

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After humble beginngs in Northern Ireland and difficulty at school, Colin Murray's success was not a given. But his driving work ethic, intelligence and passion have delivered him to dizzying heights.

Throughout the 1990's he slid from the news room into music journalism, eventually finding himself on BBC Radio 1, where he broadcast to the nation for a decade. In 2003, he jumped onto our screens as one of the hosts of the breakfast show RI:SE on Channel 4 and, over time, became one of the go-to voices and youth of music, TV, and radio.

Since then he's moved to BBC Radio 5Live, and showcased a deep love and knowledge for sport, presenting for Match of The Day 2, Talk Sport and, of course, on his fantastic show, 'Fighting Talk' which he presents every Saturday morning at 11 o'clock.

It's clear that his career has blossomed, but he's chosen not to have a family or children. Now, at 45, is that a choice he still stands by? Are the physical changes of midlife breaking his stride? And how has he mellowed in his approach to life as a whole? 

We also hear from Alexis Willis, author of How Much Brain Do We Really Need? who explains what we can do to develop and protect our brain health, into midlife and beyond. 

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Martin Lewis. A man who spent a lifetime championing the consumer. As a financial journalist, he started a newsletter which grew and grew into the behemoth that is MoneySavingExpert.com. In 2012 he sold it for a purported £87 million, which makes Martin a very wealthy man; yet his passion for taking on the underdog and fighting for consumer rights has not dimmed. A joyful and energetic man with a passion for his work and his family, but how have his achievements shaped his midlife? Could he ever conceive of slowing things down? And is his game affected by those emerging aches and pains? Gabby is also joined by no-nonsense personal trainer and fitness guru, James Smith to demystify exercise, midlife, conficence and the menopause.

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Mary Portas is not afraid of change and is never short of new ideas. An innovative bussiness woman, she transformed Harvey Nichols into a global fashion brand in the 90's and has graced our screens and our bookshelves in the two decades since. She's advised governments and developed clothing lines of her own. But now, at 61, how does she feel about the Mary underneath all of this? Is she afraid of slowing down? Or does parenting Horatio, who's just 9 years old, keep her feeling energised? Mary reflects on the importance of following your heart, and fixing her broken sleep pattern. We also hear from Nick Littlehales, who tells us how to create the ideal conditions for mental recovery and preparing for sleep.

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Patrice Evra, a hero to many both on and off the pitch. Described as the best left-back in Europe by Fergie, for years his leadership and passion helped bring Manchester United and the French national team to cup glory. But Patrice has battled  through poverty, sexual abuse and homelessness to get to where he is. Now, at nearly 41, Patrice reflects on the boy he left behind and the man he has become. We also hear from Dr Nerina Ramlakhan, who helps us understand how to switch off and appreciate the present moment.

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Charlene White is best known for presenting ITV News and making us laugh on Loose Women. This week she reveals some of the things she wishes she'd known about earlier. Together they explore the missed signs and signals of her mum’s menopause, what it’s like to parent younger children as we slow down in midlife, and temping her parent’s expectations when she had a family later than they would have liked. Gabby is also joined by Dr Dawn from Embarrassing Bodies who tells us the tell-tale of signs sexual dysfunction and what we can do to fix it.

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Tamzin Outhwaite may be best known for her role as Mel Owen on EastEnders but has never been defined by it. Her work ethic and strength of character has led her to pull focus on so many shows - Red Cap, Hustle, Hotel Babylon, The Fixer, Silent Witness, Law & Order UK, the list goes on. Away from the studios, she’s also graced the stage, performing in Grease, Oliver, Stepping out and, of course, Sweet Charity. In this episode Gabby and Tamzin discuss their meeting in the most unlikely of places, and explore how they deal with judgement, challenge, and change. Tamzin reflects on what she’s missed in life, and, crucially, what she’s got now. They are also joined by award-winning life coach Simon Alexander Ong who explains how to manage our energy levels and use that knowledge to make our lives fuller.

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In 2001 Will Young was crowned winner of Pop Idol. His debut single ‘Evergreen’ became the fastest selling in UK history and he became a star overnight.

After eight albums, three books, award-winning stage shows, and a very popular podcast Will’s star power has not waned, but his personal life is transformed.

Now 43, he’s overcome addiction, battled with PTSD, stood up for the rights of others and, in a crushing blow, mourned the death of his brother Rupert.

So what does peace mean to Will now? Does he miss the fast pace of pop stardom? And how does he care for himself when things get tough?

Gabby and Will are also joined by nutritionist Nicola Moore who explains how rewiring our brains can reset our relationship to food.

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Gabby Logan is middle aged and unashamed.

But what does it mean to reach the halfway stage?

Because things are changing; emotionally, physically, mentally. And with that our expectations, priorities, ambitions, and dreams rightly shift too. 

In the fifth season of The MidPoint you'll hear how Emily Dean, Will Young, Tamzin Outhwaite, Patrice Evra and so many others, are navigating this transitional point in their lives.

Now's the perfect time to hit subscribe. 

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Known as one of ‘Fergie’s Fledglings’, Philip Neville is football royalty. He’s won countless trophies in six premier leagues and the champion’s league, played for England 59 times, and shares sporting DNA with Man United golden boys David Beckham, Ryan Giggs, Nicky Butt, Paul Scholes and, of course, his brother Gary. After three years coaching England’s Lionesses, earlier this year he took on a new challenge, to cultivate Inter Miami CF in the United States. But for staunch Northerner and homebody, how well has he adapted to life across the pond? And did the Lionesses alter his outlook on gender in sport? How close are the Class of ’92 now? And how will he cope once his children fly the coop? But Phil is also joined by life coach and best-selling author, Noor Hibbert, who’ll tell us how manifesting, and mindset are the ultimate tools for midlife transformation.

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Dubbed the most powerful woman in beauty, Caroline Hirons is the straight talking blogger whose no nonsense approach to skin-care has transformed her life and career. Now trusted by millions and feared by many, her product critiques are often hilarious and biting in equal measure. Championing transparency, accuracy, and science as well as equity and workers rights, Caroline is one force majeure we should all be grateful for. But she's a bit of a midlife hero too. After 4 children and years on the shop floor, Caroline began a new journey at 40 years old. Now, a decade later, she's a published author, and proud ADHD advocate who presides over a beauty empire. We also hear from celebrity hair stylist and midlife hair expert Michael Douglas, who tells us what's really going on with our post menopause locks, and what we can do to mitigate the dreaded frizz. 

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Lorraine Kelly really needs no introduction. A daughter of Scotland and stalwart of the screen, her light touch on tough subjects has made her a British icon. But whilst she makes it all look effortless, Lorraine has battled behind to overcome those who underestimate her, from bullies in the playground to the bosses in all male newsrooms, her indomitable work ethic and fantastic enthusiasm have taken her from strength to strength. Over the last three decades she's witnessed sweeping change not only in her profession, but herself as well. Now, at 61, she reflects on how well the menopause mixed with live TV, and, in the wake of Carolyn Harris, tells us how important the job really can be at that time. But we also hear from Dr Amir Khan who tells us about the early warning signs of Cancer, what we should be looking out for and when to act. This really is one you won’t want to miss.

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A hero to many, Jürgen Klopp has achieved what very few have. In the often tribal world of football, he's united fans, pundits and players alike, whilst successfully leading Liverpool FC to domestic and European triumph. Outspoken and easy to laugh, yet measured and deliberate too, his virtues off and on the pitch are celebrated in equal measure. But, now 54, does the bond with his youngest players flow as freely? Is he as authoritarian as he once was? And, could we ever see him leave the pitch to lead a country? By his own admission Jürgen will not hesitate to devour the contents of a full fridge, so you’ll also hear from the best-selling author and nutritionist Rhiannon Lambert, who tells us how her book 'The Science of Nutrition' can help us maintain a healthy relationship with the food we love.

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The daughter of a top horse trainer, and herself a champion jockey, Clare Balding OBE made the leap into broadcasting as the BBC's racing specialist. Since then though, she’s reported on everything, from the Olympic Games and Wimbledon to Royal Weddings and Crufts. But for a decade she was also hiding her sexuality and looked to her father for approval. Now, at 50, and many many accolades later, Clare finds motivation from within and her wife Alice, who’s always there to lend a hand. Clare is unceasingly playful and energised, but is also afraid of purchasing tampons from the shop - so how does she feel about having her first hot flush? Gabby invites her to talk about menopause, whilst hearing an inspiring story from Carolyn Harris, the MP who’s cross party bill has taken the subject all the way to Whitehall - and won. 

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Nihal Arthanayake, a rapper turned broadcaster who knows a thing or two about shaking things up. Born to Buddhist parents of Sri Lankan origin in Essex, Nihal performed for five years as an MC before turning his hand to promotion and freelance music journalism. After years championing Asian and Desi bests in dark club basements, he eventually found a home at the BBC hosting award-winning shows on Radio One and BBC Asian Network, before moving to 5 Live, where he now interrogates an eclectic and often starry guest list - from political heavyweights and famous musicians, to unmissable stories and important debates. In this interview Nihal describes how he's 'floated through life', but we don't think that's entirely true. Guided by curiosity, and unshakable self-belief, it's clear Nihal has carved his own route to the top. But now, having just turned 50, is he slowing down? Will he ever 'grow out' of his Air Force 1s? And is music the key to staying young at heart? You'll have to listen to find out, but you'll also hear from author and founder Lucy Kellaway, who at 57, left a high-powered role at the Financial Times to retrain as a maths teacher, and has never looked back. 

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The Midpoint is back and we’re kicking things off with an absolute powerhouse, both on stage and in everyday life. Sharleen Spiteri has never been one to sit on the fence; In the nineties, she broke new ground with an androgenous look and searing vocals that challenged an industry of men. Since then, her band Texas have sold over forty million records, including thirteen top-ten singles and three number-one albums, but she’s not stopping yet. At fifty-four, Sharleen is as passionate, energised and daring as ever, touring the world once again with new LP 'Hi'. But things have changed ever so slightly. Now four years into the menopause, Sharleen cuts life on the road with more leisurely pursuits, spending time in the garden and hiding her enviable wardrobe from her teenage daughter Misty. We also hear from menopause expert Dr Shahzadi Harper, who tells us why testosterone could be the key to inspiring a brilliant sex life, into midlife and beyond.  

This episode contains language that's not suitable for young children. 

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Gabby Logan will not succumb to beige middle-age - and neither should you!

As we reach the middle of our lives things are changing; emotionally, physically, mentally. And with that our expectations, priorities, ambitions, and dreams shift too. 

But what's really going on when we reach our mid-points? With a little help from a host of well-known faces and some knowledgable experts, Gabby hopes to find the answers.

In the fourth season of The MidPoint you'll hear from Clare Balding, Nihal Arthanayake, Sharleen Spiteri, James Nesbitt and so many more.

So what are you waiting for? Hit subscribe now. 

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Mark Watson is a comedian, author and sports pundit. Taking to the stand-up stage with his first gig in 2002, he won the Daily Telegraph Open Mic Competition that same year and the rest is history… well, not quite? Mark and Gabby talk candidly about his divorce, using it as material for his comedy and, at times, misjudging how much to share. He opens up about his absent dad-guilt due to touring, and why the need for validation can be pragmatic for a comedian, rather than an ego stroke.

Mark turned 40 during the lockdown, giving him an opportunity to reassess his priorities when it came to his physical and mental health; which is why he started therapy and continues to run.

Mel Deane, a former international rugby player and now fitness coach, joins us to speak about the benefits of adding weight training to a workout routine.

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Andi Osho is what the cool kids of our day would call your typical "Slashie", meaning she cannot be defined by just one occupation. She is an award-winning comedian, writer, actress and on top of that she is the only person to win Celebrity Mastermind, not once, but twice.    For the past eighteen years Andi has graced our screens in a variety of ways from comedy shows such as Live at the Apollo and Mock of the Week, to dramas such as Michaela Coel's HBO/BBC, I May Destroy You and BBC 1's Line of Duty.    In this episode, we discuss everything from Andi's drive to continue to innovate herself even when the road ahead is not clear, her frustration with the comedy world as a Black woman and how she is now at peace with the idea of not having her own children.    We're also joined by dietitian Ruth Wood, who gives us some insight into the best foods and nutrients for us and why that 7pm spin class might not be the best idea after all.

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International broadcaster and host of critically acclaimed podcast, Soundtracking, Edith Bowman joins The Midpoint this week.

For over two decades, Edith has held court in the UK’s largest media houses. From MTV and Capital FM to Channel 4, Virgin Radio and of course Radio 1 she's lived life in the fast lane. But she was forced to slow down when BBC management altered her contract, and the course of her working life. Edith has since found a second focus in film and is riding new highs after she hosted the BAFTAs earlier this year. She's also moved to the Cotswolds, brought a gorgeous dog and rekindled her love of fitness.

So how has this city-dweller adjusted to countryside living? Has she regained the work-life balance lost in lockdown? And now, at 47, what does she think of the word 'perimenopause'?

Edith's family also have a long history with Cancer, so leading menopause expert and founder of the balance menopause app and The Menopause Charity, Dr. Louise Newson, is here to tell us what's really going on when it comes to HRT and the Big C.

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The highest try scorer of all time in Ireland, and the 8th in the history of the sport he's earned his place in the Rugby Union Hall of Fame. But after retiring in 2014, Brian O'Driscoll has had to pull focus, from adoring crowds and adrenaline fuelled games to neighbour, father, husband and friend. So how has he made the switch from the self-directed sporting hero, to caring and supportive family man? What was it like to let his team mates go? How is he coping with new baby Ted at 42? And does he ever wish people would stop talking to him about Rugby? We also hear from exercise physiologist Dr Peter Herbert, who tells us why High Intensity training is best, at any age!

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Penny Lancaster. Rock wife, beauty queen, photographer, TV presenter, and now, Special Constable with City of London Police.

At 50, she embraced the midpoint gear shift with absolute fearlessness and tenacity. She's also an extremely kind, giving person who's grounded by family and believes strongly in supporting those in need.

But Penny spent much of last year's lockdown plagued by hot sweats, mood swings, sleepless nights and a changing physique.

So, in this episode we're also talking to functional nutritionist Pippa Campbell, to help us understand the menopause and midlife metabolism.

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Alexandra Shulman led British Vogue for over 25 years until stepping down in 2017. Under her direction the magazine saw its readership rise to unprecedented levels, offering women a more accessible and inclusive blueprint for what fashion could mean to them. She also championed British designers and was one of the first to feature plus-size bodies on the magazine's cover. Despite this, she never quite fit in, and was heavily criticised by tabloids and the fashion elite for her appearance and salt of the earth attitude. So what does think about Vogue's direction now? And how has she adjusted to life without it? We also speak to Sunday Times bestselling author Davinia Taylor about the vital link between gut health, mental health, weight and addiction.

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Gareth Thomas, a man who can be truly proud of who he is and where he's come from. As a former captain of the British and Irish Lions, and the second highest try scorer for Wales, Gareth is without doubt a sporting hero. But he's also one of the few British sportsman to publicly come out as gay. That was back in 2009 and it transformed his life forever.

In this episode Gareth reflects on why self-acceptance was the tool that saved his life, and how he used it to overcome the loneliness that had gripped him for so many years. But in 2020, life changed once more, when he was diagnosed with HIV and was forced to face the stigma that still surrounds it.

Gareth has broken sporting records, written a best-seller (with another on the way) and is a passionate advocate for LGBTQI+ awareness. These are all undoubtedly impressive, but it's his growth mindset and boundless positivity that are truly inspiring.

But you'll also hear from Frances Edmonds, author of 'Repotting Your Life: Reframe Your Thinking', who'll arm you with a practical guide to tackling your midlife pivots with absolute confidence. This is one you won't want to miss.

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Ruby Wax OBE is no stranger to change. Once the comedy queen of screen and stage, she's now more likely found reflecting on mindfulness having swapped the stand up circuit for the writer's shed.

In the past decade she's graduated from Oxford university, written four best-selling books and has found a new calling, centred on helping others overcome poor mental health.

But none of this has come easy. Despite grieving for a television career cut short and a battle with her own depression, Ruby has reinvented herself with fearlessness and grit, and recommends you do the same.

So how does she manage her health and happiness now? And does she ever miss the glamour of her former life? Ruby also lets us in on the secret of a long and happy marriage and we find out how to overcome insomnia from Mirana Levy, who didn't sleep a wink for nearly eight years.

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Gabby Logan will not succumb to beige middle-age. And neither should you.

But, as we reach the middle of our lives things are changing; emotionally, physically, mentally. And with that our expectations, priorities, ambitions, and sense of self shift too.

So what's really going on when we reach the mid-point? With a little help from a host of well-known faces and brilliant experts, Gabby hopes to find some answers.

In this third season you'll hear from Ruby Wax, Gareth Thomas, Andi Osho, Alex Shulman and so many more.

So what are you waiting for? Now’s the time to hit subscribe.

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