Zoe Hardman on motherhood, injury, resilience and early menopause

29/07/20262 min read

From TV and radio to co-founding the hit podcast Made by Mamas, Zoe Hardman joins Ellie Taylor to talk motherhood, recovery, identity and learning to trust her body after a life-changing ACL injury

Zoe reflects on a career that's taken her from reality TV to becoming one of the UK's most recognisable broadcasters, while building a supportive community for parents through Made by Mamas. She opens up about navigating pregnancies, the physical and emotional impact of a devastating skiing accident that ruptured her ACL, and the long road back to the active life she loves. Along the way, Zoe shares how motherhood has reshaped her relationship with her body, why asking for help isn't a weakness and how resilience isn't about bouncing back – it's about finding a new way forward.

“I really love that moment where you just go, I can't fight this. This is the most brilliant and natural thing in the world. I've got to just give in to it”

Timestamps

[00:00] Intro: Meet Zoe Hardman

[01:06] How it all started for Zoe

[3:04] Crazy schedules and busy weeks

[3:28] The impact of her Made By Mamas podcast

[6:00] Zoe’s relationship with her body over the years

[7:27] The discovery that food is fuel

[8:15] A history of early menopause

[9:16] Body changes through pregnancy

[10:04] Falling pregnant with her second child

[11:19] HRT and finding the right solution

[13:27] ACL injury and a fifth knee operation

[15:24] Navigating rehabilitation as a sporty person

[17:11] The importance of ‘just’ resting for mums

[19:01] Zoe’s priorities when it comes to looking after herself

[20:54] Zoe’s favourite supplements

[23:01] All things vaginal lubrication and sex during menopause

[24:02] The Science Break: Maca and sexual desire 

[25:25] The Stack: quick-fire questions

“Can't we just chill out and have a cup of tea and sit down. Why are we so frightened to slow down and stop? Why do we never show our kids that we are just having a rest?”

Products discussed

Zoe Hardman discussed the following products in this episode:  

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Disclaimer – The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests on this podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect the positions of Holland & Barrett. The content is intended for general conversation and informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as medical, nutritional or other professional advice. If you are considering taking any supplements or products mentioned, please consult a qualified healthcare professional or speak to one of our qualified in-store colleagues before doing so. Listener discretion is advised, as some topics discussed may be sensitive or potentially triggering.