In this week’s episode of HELLO!’s Second Act podcast, host Ateh Jewel sits down with pop powerhouse Anastacia for an unfiltered, deeply personal conversation about midlife, health, and the power of Dolly Parton.
At 57, the I’m Outta Love singer is proof that midlife isn’t about slowing down – it’s about stepping up. With her UK tour kicking off and a new album, Symphonic Revolution, dropping in November, she’s embracing her second act with full force.
Menopause truths
When menopause hit at 50, Anastacia initially laughed off the hot flashes. But as brain fog, heart flutters, and a frozen shoulder set in, worry took over. “I thought I had early dementia, a brain tumour, a broken shoulder… I had all the things,” she reveals. She is now passionate about shattering the stigma around perimenopause and midlife health symptoms, encouraging women to seek support, explore treatment options, and reclaim their energy rather than suffer in silence.
Lessons from Dolly Parton
Anastacia recalls meeting Dolly Parton in 2003 at the Women Rock benefit – her very first TV performance after being diagnosed with breast cancer at age 34. Dolly’s infectious joy and legendary business savviness left an indelible mark, particularly Dolly’s refusal to give up her publishing rights to I Will Always Love You when Elvis wanted them. Anastacia’s takeaway for women navigating their own careers and boundaries in midlife? “That’s grown woman stuff. Just be more Dolly.”
Royal connections
The conversation also touches on performing at the 2007 Concert for Diana at the invitation of Princes William and Harry, and how Princess Diana’s legacy as a role model still resonates with her.
And how about those 90s outfits?
And as for her iconic wardrobe, Anastacia is leaning right back into her signature look. “I’m still wearing leather and being 90s, and now I’m fashionable again,” she laughs, delighting in younger fans discovering her Y2K aesthetic for the first time.
© Marcel BrellTune in now
Whether you need validation on your own midlife journey, practical inspiration on setting career boundaries, or a reminder that your best style years are right now, this episode is an absolute must-listen. Catch the full interview on HELLO!’s Second Act podcast with Ateh Jewel on your favourite streaming platform today.
Listen to the Second Act podcast, now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Podcasts and Youtube.
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