Meteorologist and author, Joanna Donnelly talks dancing, discipline, and the joy of change.
Meteorologist and author, Joanna Donnelly recently announced her stepping down from presenting the weather on RTE television after almost 10 years. A passionate advocate for health and wellness, she is now concentrating on the present. When she stepped onto the Dancing with the Stars stage earlier this year, she showed the public an entirely new side of herself, grit, grace, and plenty of laughs along the way. Here, she talks about taking on new challenges, embracing ageing, and how she keeps body and mind in shape.
What Inspired You to Take Part in Dancing With the Stars?
“I’ve always been a huge fan of the show. Even before it aired in Ireland, I watched Strictly Come Dancing, and way back in the 70s I remember watching Come Dancing with my mum. It’s such a joyful, positive show – music, dancing, costumes, the whole thing. It’s my favourite form of entertainment, so the chance to take part was irresistible.”
How Did Physical Training Impact Your Body and Wellbeing?
“It was very demanding – even though I was already quite fit. My pro partner, Maciej, tailored routines to match my ability, and sometimes he’d say, ‘I think you can handle a bit more,’ and I’d beg him not to make it harder! But I noticed lovely muscle definition, especially in my arms, from holding the dance frame for hours.”
Dancing is Physically and Mentally Intense. How Did You Balance the Pressure of Performing With Your Day-to-day Work?
“The mental side was the toughest. I’d get the steps right and then suddenly forget everything. Maciej had the patience of a saint. You’re thinking about timing, steps, posture and smiling! I was exhausted every day.”
What Did the Experience Teach You About Resilience, Discipline, or Self-care?
“The early weeks were hard. I was working so hard but still getting low scores from the judges. It took a lot to keep going. Maciej really helped me focus on enjoying the process and not obsessing over numbers. I had to accept I’d never be a professional dancer and that was okay. I also learned the importance of rest and recovery. My body needed time to bounce back.”
As Someone in a High-profile Career, How Do You Maintain a Healthy, Balanced Lifestyle?
“Exercise has always been part of my life. I’ve done daily routines since childhood: running, cycling, swimming, yoga, and bodyweight training. It’s never felt like a chore. I also prioritise mental fitness. Every day, I learn a language, practice a musical instrument, or do puzzles.”
What Does Your Daily Wellness Routine Look Like? Any Must-have Habits?
“I do at least 30 minutes of yoga daily and 20 press-ups every time I brush my teeth, so I get those done first thing! I also make sure to eat green leafy vegetables every single day. A good gut is the foundation of a healthy lifestyle.”
Do You Take Any Supplements to Support Your Health?
“Yes, I take a few. Right now, magnesium and Cleanmarine MenoMin an omega 3 & multivitamin blend scientifically formulated for menopausal women.”
Sleep is So Vital. How Do You Manage Rest With Such a Busy Schedule on Air?
“I wish I had that figured out. I’ve struggled with insomnia since puberty, and it worsened during perimenopause. I’ve banned phones from the bedroom, which helps. Magnesium before bed might be helping too, but who knows, it might just be a coincidence.”
What Advice Would You Give Professionals Who Struggle to Prioritise Their Health?
“If you can’t carve out 15 minutes for yourself, something’s wrong. Whether it’s yoga, a walk, or eating a proper meal, that time is essential. No job is worth working yourself into a chair you can’t get out of. I’m not thinking about how long I live, I’m thinking about how well I live.”
Many Women Feel Unprepared for Menopause. What’s Been Your Experience, and How Have You Managed It?
“Lots of challenges! The drop in oestrogen affects so much, physically and mentally. But there’s also a silver lining. As the “empathy” hormone fades, a lot of women, myself included, start putting themselves first. That’s liberating. After years of caring for others, I’m enjoying this shift.”
Is There Enough Awareness and Support for Women Navigating Menopause in High-pressure Jobs?
“I’m hopeful that’s improving. I feel empowered by the increasing awareness. I’d feel confident going to a manager and saying, ‘This is what I’m dealing with, and I need to make adjustments.’ That’s a big change from even a few years ago.”
What Would You Say to Women Who Feel Hesitant to Speak Up About Symptoms at Work?
“It’s tough to be the first, but remember: 50% of the population will go through menopause. You’re not alone. Some women barely notice it, but many struggle. We need to normalise those conversations.”
Do You Think the Media is Becoming More Accepting of Natural Ageing, or Do Image Pressures Still Dominate?
“Pressures are worse than ever for young people, especially with filters and unrealistic beauty standards. But I’m encouraged by more older women speaking up and rejecting the “anti-ageing” narrative. I’m proud to be 54. Pretending to be younger doesn’t fight ageism. I want my kids to value health over appearance. A healthy body and mind – that’s the real goal.”
What Advice Would You Give to Young Women Who Are Interested in Stem but Don’t See Enough Female Role Models in These Fields?
“There is a saying, ‘See it to be it’. So it is very important to me to be a STEM ambassador. Even when I was doing the show I was constantly trying to highlight the fact that I was there as a middle aged woman with an interesting career in science. Science and maths degrees can take people into hugely diverse career opportunities so it’s important to keep highlighting those when you get the chance.”
The Announcement to Leave the Weather Forecast on Tv Came as a Great Shock to Many. What’s Next for You?
“Deciding to make a change has not been an easy one. I’m taking time now to assess what my next exciting chapter will be. My ‘third act’, as Jane Fonda calls it. I hope it will bring new challenges and opportunities to continue to encourage women in STEM and highlight climate awareness. But I’m open to something new.”