Welcome to a very special bonus edition of The Menopause and Cancer Podcast. I’m Dani Binnington — cancer survivor, menopause advocate, and founder of Menopause and Cancer — and today marks the start of something I’ve been quietly working on for years.

In this episode, I’m inviting you behind the scenes of my brand-new book, Navigating Menopause After Cancer. This book didn’t just appear overnight — in fact, the journey started back in 2018, when I first signed with a literary agent and began dreaming of putting everything I’d learned into one place.

Over the next few Fridays, I’ll be sharing the real, unfiltered story of how this book came to life. From the challenges of getting published (and why I don’t think any traditional publisher would have taken this on), to the decision to self-publish, and even the surprising story behind the book’s cover — designed by a woman from our own community.

If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to turn lived experience into something that can help others — or you're just curious about what didn’t make it into the final version — this mini-series is for you.

I’m so glad you’re here.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro

02:45 Cancer diagnosis whilst living in Austria on a gap year

05:28 Becoming a yoga teacher and creating a local community

10:30 First book proposal

13:12 Loss of confidence after surgery

So many of us have been made to feel like we should just be “okay” after cancer—that if we’re not constantly “beating it” or “staying strong,” then somehow we’re failing. That we should be grateful it was “only” this stage, “only” this treatment. But the truth is, it’s not only anything. It’s hard, it’s relentless, and the weight of having to hold it together for everyone else can be exhausting.

And yet, within this shared experience, there is so much strength. Today, we’re joined by the wonderful Henny Flynn, a therapeutic coach who helps people navigate change with clarity and compassion. Together, we talk about what it means to really show ourselves kindness—to acknowledge what we’ve been through, to release the guilt, and to build ourselves back up in a way that feels true.

But this episode isn’t just a conversation between the two of us. Our community was right there with us, sharing their stories, their struggles, and their moments of realisation. It’s honest, emotional, and full of the kind of support that only those who get it can give.

So, let’s talk about confidence, self-worth, and the power of compassion—not just from others, but from ourselves.

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro

06:43 "Embracing Self-Compassion During Hardships"

12:42 "It's Okay to Feel 'Not Okay'"

18:52 "Unacknowledged Truth"

32:27 Unanticipated Menopause Impact

40:54 Inner Connection and Self-Awareness

45:29 Finding Strength and Self-Compassion

50:39 "Empowerment Through Unexpected Connection"

Here are all of Henny’s wonderful resources for you:

• My darling girl - these poems are love letters to all the girls & women we have ever been. I know they have helped many women on their menopause journey. https://www.hennyflynn.co.uk/my-darling-girl-vol-1
• In the Flow - journal your inner wisdom - the guide for compassion-based journaling, filled with prompts to use and really clear steps for people to take https://innerworkproject.com/product/in-the-flow/
• My website with lots of resources, books and courses for people to explore https://www.hennyflynn.co.uk/
• You can contact Henny here henny@hennyflynn.co.uk

Join the BOOST30 challenge here https://fundraiseformenopauseandcancer.raiselysite.com/Boost30

This episode is proudly sponsored by Pelvic Relief, a company dedicated to improving women’s pelvic health through science-backed solutions. They offer a carefully curated range of products, including vaginal probiotics, lubes, moisturisers, the onut and other super important tools to support those dealing with pelvic pain, menopause symptoms, and post-cancer recovery.

Find out more here https://pelvicrelief.co.uk/

Connect with us:

For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org

Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancer

Join our Facebook group:

If you’ve been feeling confused by the high-protein hype, this episode will bring clarity. In this episode, I’m joined once again by the brilliant Julie Webb – a nutritionist with decades of experience supporting people through cancer and recovery. She’s been on the podcast before, and I knew I had to bring her back because she has so much practical, no-nonsense wisdom to share.

We talk all about protein – and why more isn’t always better. I ask Julie:

• What role does protein really play for cancer survivors and people in menopause?
• How much protein do we need? What’s the evidence?
• How important are healthy fats and omega-3s – especially for brain health?
• How can we make nourishing meals feel doable, not overwhelming?

We also dive into the power of the Mediterranean diet, how to eat more mindfully, and why balance always wins over perfection.

If you are navigating life after cancer and want simple, grounded advice about what to eat and why, this conversation is for you.

I hope it leaves you feeling calm, confident, and better nourished.

This episode is proudly sponsored by Pelvic Relief, a company dedicated to improving women’s pelvic health through science-backed solutions. They offer a carefully curated range of products, including vaginal probiotics, lubes, moisturisers, the onut and other super important tools to support those dealing with pelvic pain, menopause symptoms, and post-cancer recovery.

Find out more here https://pelvicrelief.co.uk/

Episode Highlights:

00:00 Intro

06:43 Protein Intake Guidelines for Women

11:14 Balance Protein, Fibre, and Health

18:15 Protein Intake for Cancer Survivors

20:20 Red Meat Protein Intake Reassessed

24:19 Balanced Meal Distribution Advice

27:43 Focus on Protein, Simplify Choices

31:48 Managing Breakfast Fat Intake

42:30 Balanced Diet Simplified

Find Julie here https://www.juliewebbnutrition.org/

Join the BOOST30 challenge here https://fundraiseformenopauseandcancer.raiselysite.com/Boost30

Listen and watch Episode 147 here for more information about what you should include on your plate to ease menopause symptoms.

Connect with us:

For more information and resources visit our website: www.menopauseandcancer.org

Or follow us on Instagram @menopause_and_cancer

Join our Facebook group: www.facebook.com/groups/menopauseandcancerchathub