Podcast Summary: Totally Booked with Zibby – Episode Featuring Tamsen Fadal

Release Date: March 25, 2025

In this compelling episode of Totally Booked with Zibby, host Zibby Owens sits down with Tamsen Fadal, the author of “HOW TO MENOPAUSE: Take Charge of Your Health, Reclaim Your Life, and Feel Even Better Than Before.” Tamsen, an Emmy Award-winning journalist, documentary filmmaker, and passionate menopause advocate, shares her transformative journey from a newsroom to becoming a leading voice in women’s health.

1. From Journalism to Menopause Advocacy

Zibby Owens welcomes Tamsen Fadal to the show, expressing excitement about her book and advocacy work. The conversation kicks off with Tamsen recounting the pivotal moment that redirected her career path.

Tamsen Fadal describes a life-changing incident:
“I was in the middle of a news broadcast when I suddenly collapsed in the ladies' room. My heart racing and a severe flush of fever hit me out of nowhere” ([04:32]). This alarming event led her to seek medical help, ultimately resulting in a menopause diagnosis at 49—a revelation that sparked her mission to educate and support other women navigating similar experiences.

2. Creating a Documentary and Writing a Book

Determined to shed light on the often-overlooked topic of menopause, Tamsen teamed up with fellow documentarians to produce “Shredding the Silence on Menopause.” Over the course of three years, they conducted interviews with doctors and women nationwide, unearthing raw and personal stories. The documentary’s success with PBS affirmed the public’s hunger for this discourse.

Expanding her reach, Tamsen authored her book, which delves deeper into aspects like sleep, nutrition, and wellness, providing actionable insights for women. She emphasizes the communal aspect of menopause, highlighting how shared experiences foster understanding and support.

3. Insights into Menopause and Its Impact

Zibby probes into the common themes and profound stories Tamsen encountered during her research. Tamsen reveals the diversity of experiences women face:

“I heard some of the rawest stories—changes in relationships, shifts in self-image, and the profound impact on daily life” ([08:05]). She underscores the psychological and emotional dimensions of menopause, where women often grapple with feelings of invisibility and irrelevance.

Tamsen points out a crucial mindset shift:
“Menopause doesn’t have to be a season of dread and suffering. It can be a time of freedom and self-nurturing” ([09:14]). She advocates viewing menopause as an opportunity for personal growth and rediscovery rather than an end.

4. The Importance of Community and Self-Advocacy

A central theme in Tamsen’s advocacy is the significance of community support. She notes the lack of adequate medical training on menopause, leaving women feeling dismissed and uninformed. Her advice centers on self-advocacy:

“You have to be your biggest advocate. Ask direct questions and seek out healthcare professionals who specialize in menopause” ([19:59]). Tamsen emphasizes the necessity of finding knowledgeable doctors and building a supportive network to navigate the complexities of menopause effectively.

5. Embracing Change and Overcoming Fear

Transitioning from a stable career in journalism to health advocacy posed significant challenges for Tamsen. She candidly shares her fears and the steps she took to overcome them:

“There was so much fear involved in stepping out of my comfort zone, but seeing the positive impact on women kept me moving forward” ([12:00]). Her approach involved meticulous planning, seeking partnerships, and gradually building a platform that addresses women’s needs comprehensively.

6. Branding and Outreach Strategies

Tamsen elaborates on her branding efforts, which are integral to her mission. Collaborating with Sky High Interactive, she built a user-friendly website that consolidates vetted resources, making information accessible and actionable:

“I wanted to create a clear and clutter-free space where women can find all the information they need in one place” ([22:05]). Her active engagement on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok ensures she stays attuned to her community’s evolving needs, allowing her to address relevant topics promptly.

7. Personal Reflections and Future Goals

Reflecting on her mother's battle with breast cancer and its influence on her advocacy, Tamsen shares a heartfelt perspective:

“I hope my work prevents other women from suffering in silence as my mother did” ([26:55]). Looking ahead, Tamsen aims to expand her efforts to ensure broader access to menopause-related healthcare and support, partnering with organizations to create comprehensive solutions for women across different environments.

Conclusion

Tamsen Fadal’s journey from journalism to menopause advocacy exemplifies resilience and dedication. Through her documentary, book, and ongoing efforts, she empowers women to take control of their health and embrace this significant life transition with confidence and support. This episode of Totally Booked with Zibby not only highlights the importance of addressing menopause openly but also inspires listeners to advocate for themselves and seek the community they deserve.

Notable Quotes:

• “Menopause doesn’t have to be a season of dread and suffering. It can be a time of freedom and self-nurturing.” – Tamsen Fadal ([09:14])
• “You have to be your biggest advocate. Ask direct questions and seek out healthcare professionals who specialize in menopause.” – Tamsen Fadal ([19:59])
• “I hope my work prevents other women from suffering in silence as my mother did.” – Tamsen Fadal ([26:55])

Connect with Tamsen Fadal:

• Website: zibbymedia.com
• Instagram: @tamsenfadal
• Book: HOW TO MENOPAUSE

Stay Informed: For more insights and discussions on the latest and most impactful books, follow Zibby Owens on Instagram and visit zibbymedia.com.