Advertise on podcast: The SHE Word

A staggering 49% of women (and 37% of men) meet the diagnostic criteria for at least one functional gastrointestinal disorder - gut health issues. Beyond the obvious discomfort of pain and cramps, there is often the secondary issues related to a bloated abdomen, the disrupted body functions and it turns out that there are far more reaching implications of a dodgy gut. But how many of us really pay much attention to the health of our microbiome, or to state it more passionately, how many of us actively take care of our Second Brain? Gut health influences your entire body because the micro-organisms in your digestive tract help control digestion, immunity, moods and brain function. Sitting down with Trudy are three specialists who enlighten the topic from three different perspectives, Dr Elena Zarb brings her knowledge as a pharmacist with a passion for gut health, having launched gut health initiatives across Brown’s Pharmacies. Sara Borg is Qualified Nutritional Therapist who aims to support individuals in understanding the root causes of their health concerns and creating sustainable changes that support long-term health and quality of life. Marie Micallef specialises in Lifestyle Coaching for High-Performing Women, Optimising Hormones, Energy & Metabolic Health and is a qualified pharmacist. The discussion breaks down the function of the gut in easy to understand terms, highlighting the importance of balanced gut health beyond just the obvious direct abdominal issues. The conversation highlights the connection between the gut and our brain, and how ‘butterflies in our stomach’ and ‘gut feeling’ are not just myths - hence the term ‘The Second Brain’. The three experts also highlight how medications, antibiotics, stress, lifestyle can all adversely affect our gut health, why we shouldn’t ignore their relevance, and the (some small) steps we can take to improve our gut health and therefore our overall well being. This is a do-not-miss show on a topic that affects all of us, but directly impacts on at least half of all women. Huge thanks to Brown's, Perrier, Always, Hyatt Regency Malta, Tampax, Satariano, Holland and Barrett, Camilleri Paris Mode, Verdala Wellness Hotel and Spa, Mapfre, BOV and Lindex for supporting these conversations.

Lets face it, Money is one topic that is really hard to talk about. Surveys consistently show that people rank personal finance as more difficult to discuss than politics, religion, or even death. Talking about money is hard because society treats it as a deep emotional taboo that touches on our self-worth, status, and deepest insecurities. Which means that it is DEFINITELY something that we should be talking about on The SHE Word. Admitting to debt, low savings, or a financial mistake feels like admitting personal failure. People worry others will view them as irresponsible or incapable. Conversely, wealthy individuals often stay silent out of fear of envy, awkwardness, or people treating them differently. In this episode, Trudy sits down with Vanessa Borg, Joyce Hili and Sharon Pollacco who bring their expertise from BOV, to pick their brains on this crucial part of life's everyday functions. Trudy pushes hard and digs deep to find out exactly how we as women can be more financially secure, no matter what our circumstances are. Over and over again we hear that financial literacy should be something that we learn about from an early age, not only to dispel shame and fear, but to also empower women to take control of their money and find true financial freedom. This show brings you the tools, knowledge and easy understanding to help every woman to be more empowered when it comes to Money Matters. Huge thanks to BOV for creating these conversations. Also thanks to Brown's, Perrier, Always, Hyatt Regency Malta, Tampax, Satariano, Holland and Barrett, Camilleri Paris Mode, Verdala Wellness Hotel and Spa, Mapfre, and Lindex for supporting these conversations.

B*ITCHING. We are all familiar with the term Bitching. Most of us have been on the receiving end of someone’s bitching, and if we are really honest, most of us probably have the odd bitch from time to time. But what happens when bitching translates to bullying. Negativity turns nasty and derogatory comments become devastating. Maybe it’s a family member’s sly remark, a ruthless comment online, a colleague’s insensitive joke, a trusted friend’s betrayal. Hurt hits differently for each of us, but in this episode we look at the difference between gossip, constructive criticism, bitching and bullying. Trudy sits down with Model and DJ Tiffany Pisani, Love Island Winner Chelsea Bagnall Falzon and SHE Word regular Sue Caruana as the women share their experiences from verbal intimidation to physical bullying, from name calling to dedicated HATE Facebook Pages, sl*t-slander and much more. Trudy asks Tiffany, Chelsea and Sue what was the worst thing that has been said to them, with shocking answers. The guests share the impact of what has happened to them, and how they have recovered and moved forward. In Tiffany’s words ‘Push through, keep going and inspire others’. If you have ever experienced bullying, if you know someone who has - or if you are just a woman living In 2026 - this show will make you feel seen and empowered. Huge thanks to Brown's, Perrier, Always, Hyatt Regency Malta, Tampax, Satariano, Holland and Barrett, Camilleri Paris Mode, Verdala Wellness Hotel and Spa, Mapfre, BOV and Lindex for supporting these conversations.

The SHE Word is conversations for WOMEN, but our partner channel The HE Word has published a show we think that you might want to listen to - because the guys include Women in their conversation - it is a GREAT show to open conversations with your partner, your friends, and so we are dropping this show onto our channels to make it easier for you to find. Men talk about sex all the time. But talking about sex and talking honestly about sex are two very different things. This isn't another conversation where men brag about their sexual experiences. Let's face it, we've had enough of those! Instead, it's an open, honest and refreshingly candid discussion about a subject that is still considered sensitive, even though it really shouldn't be. Sex is a natural part of life for most of us, yet having meaningful conversations about it can still feel surprisingly uncomfortable. Whether it's talking to our children, our partners or the other important people in our lives, how do we approach a subject that so many of us have grown up avoiding? And perhaps more importantly, how can we expect to understand something we're so reluctant to discuss? In this episode of The HE Word, host Frank Zammit is joined by three guests who aren't afraid to tackle the subject head-on. TV host and producer Ben Camille, personality Xandru Grech and counsellor Ryan Portelli open up about sex in ways they perhaps never have before. From sex education and pornography to libido, expectations and the insecurities men rarely admit to, the conversation explores the questions we should be asking ourselves, and perhaps each other, far more often. It's honest, occasionally uncomfortable, sometimes hilarious, and guaranteed to get people talking. Because if there's one thing this episode makes clear, it's that we need to get better at talking about sex, not just having it. Huge thanks to Brown's, Peroni, Hyatt Regency Malta, Satariano, Holland and Barrett, Camilleri Paris Mode, Verdala Wellness Hotel and Spa, Mapfre, BOV for supporting these conversations.

What does "having a village" really mean in motherhood? What happens when that village looks different than expected? In this episode of The She Word Mums, we explore the many faces of support, community, and connection through the experiences of three mothers whose journeys have taken very different paths. Tara Alvarez Garcia shares her experience of navigating motherhood after losing her own mum, and the practical ways she navigates balancing her business and raising a family. Sarah Naudi opens up about raising her daughter abroad, far from family and familiar support systems. Sarah speaks openly about how her village is made up of more than other mothers, and the importance of staying true to herself and her dreams. Leah Camenzuli reflects on choosing to raise her children largely independently, without relying on outside help. She opens up about how her perspective changed after she suffered a loss, and the highs and sometimes conflicting lows of her choices. Together, we have an honest conversation about the realities of modern motherhood: the mental load of carrying it all, the role of partners and husbands in parenting, the pressure to do everything, and the judgement mothers often face for the choices they make. We discuss what support really looks like, why community matters, and how acceptance of ourselves and each other, can help us move beyond comparison and guilt. Whether you're surrounded by a village, building one, grieving one, or choosing a different path altogether, this episode is a reminder that there is no single right way. With special thanks to Browns, Verdala, Always, Tampax, Monsoon, Dilmah Tea, Ayurveda, Growth Gurus, FemSense®

The Young Women’s edition is back - with a twist! Each show is hosted by a special guest host who leads a discussion on a topic close to their heart. First up, welcome to The SHE Word regular Chelsea Bagnall-Falzon to host the table with three other super stars to discuss all the ins and outs of being single. Newly-single-Chelsea sits down with fellow Love Islander Italian Alessia Sarao, actress Naomi Said and the familiar face of Martha Attard. What follows is a brilliantly honest, fun and open conversation about all things young, free, single (and dating) that young women experience. This show is like sitting down for an Aperol Spritz with four great friends to chat about things that matter and ‘put the world to rights’. The conversation flows through the topic of a single status, dating, dating apps and everything to do with relationships; cheating, toxic relationships, same sex relationships and the difference, ghosting and being ghosted, to finding ‘the one’. The ladies spill the beans and dish the dirt, no holds barred. The show also takes a deeper dive into the expectations of family and friends, third wheeling with your best friend, beating the shame, permissions and freedom and navigating the prospect of not having a family. Relaxed, informal and a whole load of fun, this show is a MUST for every young woman. ‘Be seen’ in every situation you have experienced. Tune in and hang out with the friends you didn’t know you had. Huge thanks to Brown's, Aperol Spritz, Always. Tampax, Satariano, Holland and Barrett, Camilleri Paris Mode, Verdala Wellness Hotel and Spa, Mapfre, BOV and Lindex for supporting these conversation

We often get asked ‘why do you have men on The SHE Word? It is a Women’s Show’. True. The SHE Word is all about conversations Women rarely have, but once in a while it is good to get a male perspective. Most of us want to understand the less fairer sex bit better. After all, we want men as allies don’t we? So every so often we ask guy to come and join the Afterhours Edition of the show and sit with Host Trudy and her regulars for this edition Sue Caruana and Tez Camilleri, and for this episode Comedian James Ryder sits at the table. And as you would expect, there are some very funny conversations, but there are also some very serious discussions too. Based on James’s flirt with the MEP elections, the tables talks through the topic of politics; what would you do if you’re in charge of the country. The discussion moves on to the issue of the AC, Tattoos, Fashion. Trudy puts the question ‘What do you think that the opposite sex need to know?’ With some very interesting and enlightening results. The guests also work their way around what we miss and what we think that 2026 could do without. Along the way the team pick up on topics such as tech and AI, bright white ceiling lights and the importance of being bored. This edition of The SHE Word is less censored and more light hearted, but don’t be fooled into thinking there isn’t some very meaningful moments too. This is a show for everyone. Sit down, kick back and enjoy. Huge thanks to Brown's, Perrier, Always. Tampax, Satariano, Holland and Barrett, Camilleri Paris Mode, Verdala Wellness Hotel and Spa, Mapfre, BOV and Lindex for supporting these conversations.

“Women are not small men”. That sounds like an obvious statement, but it is really isn’t. 

 Women are characterised by a 28 day (average) cycle, a complex reproductive system, a mind that is active all waking hours (unlike our male counterparts), a mindset that has a natural focus on caring, and an ever changing role in society. Add to this societal pressures to aim for perfection, expectations to hold down a career, be a mum, financially strong and independent, to be fit, slim, successful and defy the natural progress of age, and it is easy to understand why women are living in the most stressful generations of all time. Stress, Anxiety, Expectations and just Being A Women all takes a toll on the body, mind and emotions. In this show Trudy sits down with Psychologist Roberta Farrugia Debono, Gynaecologist Chiara Frendo Balzan and certified lifestyle coach & licensed pharmacist Marie Micallef to find out what we really need to know about ourselves as women that we may be unaware of, or have taken for granted. From Mental Load to Menstrual Cycles, Body Trauma to Beauty Standards and Fertility to Female Well Being, and everything else, the ladies at the table tackled the topic with insight, humour, relatable stories and a 360 approach to being a woman. This show drops a bag of golden nuggets to help you make your life easier, more comfortable, more understood - at the very least, you will feel more seen and have greater understanding of what is happening to you, your body and your mind. Huge thanks to Brown's, Perrier, Always. Tampax, Satariano, Holland and Barrett, Camilleri Paris Mode, Verdala Wellness Hotel and Spa, Mapfre, BOV and Lindex for supporting these conversations.

This is the episode you want to watch with a packet of tissues as the emotions are high. In this episode of TSWM, Nerissa sits down with 3 women to discuss when motherhood doesn’t go to plan. When you plan to start a family or when you imagine your children, you never quite imagine a disability or a diagnosis hanging over their head. No one dreams of holding their baby only to be told that there is something wrong. As a mum, you only want the best for your child and knowing they will be facing a world which is not quite built for them brings challenges, heart break and grief. The three mums in this show are Yazmin Helledie, Michelle de Maria and Sharon Attard de Giovanni. These ladies have a raw and emotional conversation about their inner feelings and how they navigated the disability and diagnosis, how they accepted the curve ball life threw their way in order to be able to adapt to their new reality. They talk of shock, heartbreak but also so much joy in everyday life raising these incredible warriors and advocating for a more inclusive society and a kinder world for them - because after all, they too deserve to take up space and have their voices heard. With thanks to our sponsors, Browns, Monsoon, Hyatt, Dilmah Tea, Growth Gurus, Always, Tampax

Vanessa Frazier is the United Nations Secretary-General's Special Representative for Children and Armed Conflict. Vanessa has a long and illustrious career in the diplomatic core, is decorated and honoured by various governments and states for the work she has done. But Vanessa has hit the headlines and gone viral around the world when she has spoken out and been attacked by high ranking officials, most recently her high profile ‘run in’ with the Israeli Ambassador to the UN. In this powerful and passionate interview, Trudy talks to Vanessa about the incidents of apparent misogyny that she has encountered over the course of her career, the death threats, the abuse, the sexual slurs, and personal attacks. Vanessa explains the role that she hols within the UN and emphasises the importance of those who are passionate for peace and justice. She also shares her views on world leaders such as Trump whose actions and intentions have serious implications for world peace. Vanessa shares her thoughts on the nations who are committing serious humanitarian violations and the complex and often confusing processing to take action against them. In this moving and inspiring conversation, Trudy asks Vanessa to share her passion for the work she leads to protect the most vulnerable children around the world. Vanessa shares first hand accounts of what she has witnessed, and her thoughts on the hope that children hold on to, even in the most harrowing places, such as Gaza and Haiti. Vanessa also shares her very personal account of how she is impacted every day by what she does, and what she has seen. She reiterates WHY she will always stand up to the bullies, and why she will never underestimate the importances of the Voices of Women in Power. Watch, Listen, be inspired and empowered.

Break Ups are one of the most unspoken topics we have sat down to discuss. Unless you stay with the very first person you meet, everyone is impacted by break ups - they are an inevitable part of life - but more often than not, they aren’t pretty, they can be painful and brutal. We don’t talk about them - because it isn’t easy to chat about what can be ugly. Break Ups happen for a reason. At best two people decide that they are no longer heading in the same direction and amicably decide to part ways. More often break ups involve unmet expectations, money troubles, family and friends opinions and input, or even betrayal and abuse. The fall out from family and financial dynamics, and adjusting to a new life, can be far reaching - way beyond the obvious. Whatever the reason, Break Ups are an isolating grief. What you had hoped for is gone. The future you were building is no longer there. But. There is a life after a break up, and everyone on this show is evidence of that. In this episode Trudy sits down with Martine Cutajar, Claudia Faniello and Maria Azzopardi to discuss the variety of ways a break up can hit and how to move on. The lessons learned and the wisdom gained. Building back up after a break up might not be easy - there will be tears, soul searching, denial, anger, bargaining, depression, but finally hopefully healing, acceptance and moving forwards. This is a show for everyone, whether you are in a happy and settled relationship and are just curious, searching to heal the past, or just want to feel seen. Huge thanks to Brown's, Perrier, Always. Tampax, Satariano, Holland and Barrett, Camilleri Paris Mode, Verdala Wellness Hotel and Spa, Mapfre, BOV and Lindex for supporting these conversations. The views, opinions, and statements expressed by the interviewees in this program are solely their own and do not reflect the views, opinions, or positions of The SHE Word, the production team, or any affiliated entities. The interviewer assumes no responsibility or liability for any comments made by the interviewees during the course of the program. Viewers are encouraged to form their own opinions and interpretations based on the information presented.The views, opinions, and statements expressed by the interviewees in this program are solely their own and do not reflect the views, opinions, or positions of The SHE Word, the production team, or any affiliated entities. The interviewer assumes no responsibility or liability for any comments made by the interviewees during the course of the program. Viewers are encouraged to form their own opinions and interpretations based on the information presented.

Most girls grow up assuming or expecting that motherhood will be a natural step once they find the right person and decide that it’s the right time- after all that’s what we’ve always been taught. However, what happens when life is not as simple as portrayed from the eyes of a girl or a young teenager? This episode explores the theme of fertility and the journey to becoming a mum, the hardship, the heartache, and all the things in between that we aren’t prepared for and rarely spoken about. Nerissa Massa sits down with Dr.Christine Schembri Deguara, Angele Satariano and Christina Zammit La Rosa as they open up about their fertility journeys. The raw and emotional conversation takes us through the acceptance that fertility may not be as straightforward as we imagined. Either because of being in a same sex relationship or because falling pregnant just wasn’t happening, these women take us with them on their rollercoaster of IUI, IVF- the time commitment, the emotional, mental and financial impact it has had on them and their family and friends. Dr. Christine explains and sheds light on the problem women (and men) are facing with infertility these days, why this is and importantly what we can do to put us in the best place when we decide we are ready to go for it. She always helps with some myth busting which brings clarity especially to couples who are going through this process often feeling vulnerable and desperate. This show helps those who have had a less than smooth fertility journey feel seen and helps those supporting these couples understand a bit better what they are going through. With special thanks to Browns, Verdala, Always, Tampax, Monsoon, Dilmah Tea, Ayurveda, Growth Gurus, FemSense®

Content Warning: This show discusses themes of SA and Mental Health Some women’s extraordinary stories come from the ashes of tragedy and trauma. Emma Agius recently hit the headlines with her fight in not only a personal battle, but a win that has implications for every woman in this country and across the continent. Emma has spoken very openly about her challenges with mental health, her depression and suicidal thoughts. She has been very public about her experiences at the mental health facility in Malta, Mount Carmel, and being treated for borderline personality disorder. But in 2022 Emma shared her account of her care worker visiting her at home, guiding her to get into bed and then getting into bed next to her, and r*ping her. As with so many instances of r*pe, Emma did not scream, she fawned and froze - a reaction that is now widely recognised as a danger response. 
 However, when Emma pressed changes against the man in question the magisterial inquiry had concluded that the case did not constitute rape, as the sex was deemed consensual. Emma’s battle for justice lead her to face the darkest days of her life, dealing not only with the assault itself and the shame that so many women and men feel as victims, but also the verdict that the perpetrator had not committed a crime and that her silence was interpreted as consent. Emma’s story, and the eventual win has implications for not just Emma, but all women, men and children as to what we deem as consent. Emma’s account is honest, heartbreaking, graphic and powerful. A must-listen that is not necessarily comfortable, but crucial. This show is not be suitable for children. 
If you are affected by this topic please reach out for help: 
If you are in immediate danger please call the Police: 112 
The Domestic Violence Unit Support Line: 179 
Anonymous Online Support Line Kellimni: Kellimni.com 
Mental Health Helpline: 1579 Richmond Foundation Helpline: 1770 Available on YouTube, Spotify and Apple Podcasts, just search for The SHE Word or follow the link in Bio. The views, opinions, and statements expressed by the interviewees in this program are solely their own and do not reflect the views, opinions, or positions of The SHE Word, the production team, or any affiliated entities. The interviewer assumes no responsibility or liability for any comments made by the interviewees during the course of the program. Viewers are encouraged to form their own opinions and interpretations based on the information presented.

In this episode of The SHE Word, Trudy grills three content creators / influencers to find out the real truth behind what they do. 37% of 16-25 year-olds want to be a content creator, with an additional 13% already working in the industry. Furthermore, a massive 57% of Gen Z globally express interest in the career. But what is the cost of building a following and constantly flooding the feed to beat the algorithm and stay on top? Trudy sits down with Sporty Explorer Daniela Farrugia, Lovin Malta’s SMA’s Upcoming Content Creator runner up Josline Camilleri and Maltese Food Lovers Martina Morana to find out what being a content creator, influencer, inspiration takes in terms of time and dedication - and to discuss and understand the impact on relationships and mental heath. In this show Trudy sits with these three well-known online creators to also tackle the topics of addictive algorithms, the constant pressures of performance insights and how they are affected by negative responses and online bullying. The conversation dives into the question of an identity, and questions the importance of authenticity vs polished content, and asks ‘how personal and real should content really be?’ This is THE show for ANYONE who is online, follows creators and influencers and wants to know the truth behind the profile. Huge thanks to Brown's, Perrier, Always. Tampax, Satariano, Holland and Barrett, Camilleri Paris Mode, Verdala Wellness Hotel and Spa, Mapfre, BOV and Lindex for supporting these conversations.

Raising children has never been simple, but today's parents are navigating challenges that previous generations could have never imagined. In this thought provoking episode, we explore what it means to parent in a world where smartphones, social media, artificial intelligence, and endless digital content are becoming part of childhood earlier than ever before. Joined by three expert guests, host Maxine, unpacks some of the biggest concerns facing families today. Dr Tasha Attard, a mum of 2, a behavioural analyst, and the owner of the bridge by BxConsultancy, Dr Lucianne Zammit, a mum of 2, a lecturer in Ethics education at the University of Malta, with a PHD in promoting the responsible use of technology in schools. Dr Erika Galea, a mum of 2, a cognitive and developmental psychologist. She is a lecturer within the department of Early Childhood and Primary Education at the University of Malta. Dr Erika is the founder of the Educational Neuroscience Hub Europe and the co author of the book called 'Teaching Generation Alpha in the Classroom’. Together and from the pov of mothers, we discuss the growing pressure parents feel when their child is one of the few without a smartphone, and the guilt and self-doubt that can arise when it seems like ‘everyone else's child’ is already connected online. The conversation dives into the impact of social media use at a young age, the rise of YouTube Shorts and other short-form content, and what emerging research suggests about attention spans, brain development, emotional regulation, and social skills. We also explore the growing phenomenon of AI companions and digital relationships, asking what this could mean for children's development and future connections. We have incredibly difficult but extremely important discussions about declining mental health among young people and how in some unbearably tragic cases, how this has led to suicide. We also speak about the vital role of digital literacy helping children not only stay safe online but also how they can become critical thinkers, using technology responsibly. Most importantly, this episode ends with hope. Our guests share practical advice, reassurance, and empowering strategies for parents who are trying to find the right balance in an increasingly digital world. Whether you're already facing requests for a smartphone or simply wondering how to prepare your child for the online world, this conversation offers valuable insights, expert guidance, and a reminder that no parent needs to navigate these challenges alone. HUGE thanks to our partners for supporting these conversations: Browns, Verdala, Always, Tampax, Monsoon, Dilmah Tea, Ayurveda, Growth Gurus, SteadyTemp distributed by HLL.