Bite-Sized Balance Podcast with Wendy McCallum

In this bittersweet season finale, Sarah Baillie and I come together to share some big news: the early wrap-up of Season 4. It's been a tough decision, but one that opens up exciting opportunities on the horizon for both of us. We peel back the curtain on the "why" behind this choice, exploring the joyous spaces it's creating for personal pursuits. For me, Wendy McCallum, it means dedicating more time to my passion for writing fiction and diving into my Business Building Bootcamp community for coaches and my podcast, The Coaching Edge. Meanwhile, Sarah is excited about immersing herself in patient care, family time, and generating innovative ideas for her coaching practice. We take a trip down memory lane, reminiscing about where we began in Season 1 (the "fake podcast") and marveling at the incredible journey of personal and professional growth since our estrogen-fueled conversations about nurturing and women's midlife. Join us for a heartfelt review of what we've cherished about Bite-Sized Balance, the joy it's brought us, the key things we've learned, and the bonds it's forged. As we bid adieu to Season 4, we embark on a hiatus, ready to focus on fresh endeavors and recharge our creative spirits. This isn't goodbye; it's a "see you soon" as we gear up for new beginnings. Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey—and stay tuned, we'll likely be back in some form or fashion again. We've got too much to say! To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit: https://www.wendymccallum.com/ To contact Sarah Baillie about coaching, email her at: sarahbailliecoaching@gmail.com Psst...Coaches! Follow Wendy at The Coaching Edge Podcast

In this second to last episode of Season 4 of Bite-Sized Balance, I'm joined by Sarah Baillie to explore what's been a game-changing concept for both of us: "No One Is Coming." We dive deep into the profound reality that if our lives aren't what we want them to be, the power to change that rests solely in our hands. This awakening often hits women hard in midlife, around menopause, as the awareness of time becomes more acute. Drawing inspiration from unexpected places like the Trolls movie, Sarah shares her insights into personal responsibility and the freedom it brings. We discuss the big-picture and smaller-picture ways we can apply the idea of "No One Is Coming" to craft days and years that align with our desires.  Letting go of what doesn't serve us, whether it's social media, alcohol, or unfulfilling relationships, creates uncomfortable but fertile space for creativity and the exploration of what brings us joy. Join us as we discuss the difference between reacting and responding, and how saying no more often opens up the space to live a life that feels genuinely better. I also share some exciting changes in my own journey to joy, focusing on fiction writing and my business coaching program for coaches. Get ready for an episode that encourages you to take charge, make proactive and intentional choices, and embrace the freedom that comes with realizing that you are the captain of your own ship!  To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit: https://www.wendymccallum.com/ To contact Sarah Baillie about coaching, email her at: sarahbailliecoaching@gmail.com

Hey there, lovely listeners! First, I've got some big news to share with you on this short episode of Bite-Sized Balance. But mostly, I want to dive deep into a mindset shift that has truly transformed my life (and that I recently applied in relation the big decision that prompted today's announcement): the powerful perspective shift from "What if it goes wrong?" to the game-changing question, "What if it goes right?" Fear and anxiety have a sneaky way of holding us back, keeping us stuck in situations and habits that don't serve us. They're like quicksand, trapping us in a cycle of hesitation and self-doubt. But what if, instead of succumbing to fear, we embraced anticipation, excitement, and hope? These emotions act as catalysts, propelling us into action and nudging us towards the outcomes we desire. In this episode, we unpack the magic that happens when we shift our perspective, exploring how a simple change in mindset can transform our actions, decisions, and ultimately, our lives. So, grab your favorite beverage, tune in, and let's embark on a journey of empowerment, courage, and embracing the endless possibilities that come with asking, "What if it goes right?"  To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit: https://www.wendymccallum.com/

In this down-to-earth episode, Wendy sits down with Natasha Carrillo, a Financial Educator and Coach, to chat all things women and money. No stiff suits or complicated jargon here – just a real conversation about why women need to take the reins when it comes to their finances, and how avoiding the topic isn't serving us!  Natasha breaks down the impact our upbringing has on our money mindset and shares some practical advice on how to shift those beliefs to feel more empowered about our cash. They tackle everything from why budgeting isn't a bad word to the secret to curbing emotional spending. So, if you're ready to kiss financial stress goodbye and step into your planning power, grab your coffee and tune in. Natasha's practical tips will make you realize managing your money isn't just for the suits; it's for every woman out there looking to make her wallet work for her midlife and retirement dreams.  To connect with Natasha and learn more about her work, check out her website at www.moneywithconfidence.com.

In this short episode of Bite-Sized Balance, I'm serving up practical, empowering strategies to keep your holiday balance in check, with a goal of you wrapping up the year feeling rested, restored, and not even a tiny bit over-stuffed and annoyed!   I'm dishing out practical tips on how to prioritize what truly matters by deciphering between energy drains and gains, and using the 4 Ds (delete, delegate, defer, and do) to get those lists serving you better. No more overcommitting, no more overwhelm.   Join me as I set the stage for a transformative personal experiment this year. Learn how to craft feeling-based goals, allowing you to navigate December with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Together, we'll redefine your holiday experience, leaving you restored, recharged, and completely resentment-free come January. So, buckle up for a journey of conscious choices, self-care, and holiday harmony. Let's make this season truly magical and leave you feeling lighter and more fulfilled than ever before. To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit: https://www.wendymccallum.com/

In this heartwarming episode of Bite-Sized Balance, Wendy McCallum sits down with a remarkable guest, her client Chantal. Chantal recounts her transformative journey from decades of addiction to true freedom from alcohol. Chantal candidly shares her experience with the medication Antabuse and the pivotal role it played in her recovery. The conversation takes a beautiful turn as Chantal unveils her unique practice of specific gratitude, demonstrating how it has reignited joy in her life. By focusing on the little things, she has discovered the immense power of gratitude in her journey toward lasting freedom from drinking. This episode is an inspiring testament to the profound impact of finding joy in the simplicity of everyday moments. We talk about:  Naltrexone v. Antabuse as aids in sobriety Gratitude as part of your sobriety toolkit Finding the joy when your life looks “good on paper” but something is missing The unexpected gifts of sobriety   To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit: https://www.wendymccallum.com/

In this brief yet powerful episode of Bite-Sized Balance, my regular guest and BFF Sarah Baillie and I explain the transformative idea behind "Holding it Lightly", a tool we both use regularly in our coaching practices. I open up about a challenging period in my life and how intentionally loosening my grip on the problem (with the help of a fantastic coach!) led to a remarkable shift in my feelings, behaviors, and overall well-being. We explore the tendency among women to hold tightly to situations and desired outcomes, and how often this is driven by a need for control. But we can't control other people, we can only choose how we respond and react to them. Have a listen and then experiment with holding life a little more lightly yourself – we can't wait for you to discover the magic that unfolds when you let go of the need to tightly grasp every aspect of your journey!   To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit: https://www.wendymccallum.com/ To contact Sarah Baillie about coaching, email her at: sarahbailliecoaching@gmail.com  

In this fascinating episode, I'm joined by Adele Spraggon, a Behavioral Change Expert and author, to explore the complicated world of decision-making in your brain. Adele sheds light on why your brain is always making choices on your behalf (spoiler alert: it's not your fault!) and unveils the step-by-step path to reprogramming it with a fresh set of operating instructions.  Together, we dig into neuroscience to uncover how understanding your brain can empower you to make positive changes in your life (in all areas, even your drinking!). If you've ever wondered why you do what you do, and how to regain control, this episode is your key to unlocking your brain's full potential. In this conversation, Adele and I delve into practical strategies and insights that can help you take charge of your decision-making process.  We talk about: Why you can't (and shouldn't) believe everything you think Why you also shouldn't always believe what your BFF thinks  Why you need to stop asking “why” you're doing something and ask “what” you're thinking, feeling, and doing- instead And why breaking free from habits that aren't serving you isn't nearly as much work as you think!   Learn more about Adele at www.adelespraggon.com Get her book here: 4 Steps to Personal Empowerment

In this short and insightful Bite-Sized Balance episode, my regular guest and BFF, Sarah Baillie, and I explore the notion of "Filling the Space" that often arises as we begin to say "no" to things that no longer serve us, set boundaries, and experience a shift in caregiving duties as our children grow older. Sarah beautifully articulates the common discomfort we feel with unoccupied time, driven by societal expectations of busyness.  This tendency to fill the void immediately can lead to hasty decisions that don't actually serve us and the adoption of unhealthy coping mechanisms. Sarah's heartfelt story about "Hershey," the almost-adopted dog, highlights the profound lessons she gained about her own relationship with free time. Tune in to uncover how embracing the space in midlife can pave the way for authentic self-discovery and transformation.   To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit: https://www.wendymccallum.com/ To contact Sarah Baillie about coaching, email her at: sarahbailliecoaching@gmail.com

No matter what kind of healing or balance you're seeking in this season of life, you've probably realized that quick fixes and shortcuts rarely bring about lasting results. But taking that initial step towards educating yourself is the first stride toward creating real change. In this episode, I sit down with Ayurveda Health Coach, Carina Greweling, who helps women achieve lasting hormone balance by restoring healthy sleep, gut health, and energy. She's a certified Ayurveda Hormone Coach, Chinese medicine practitioner, and naturopath. In this crash course in Ayurvedic wisdom, Carina explains the three constitution types known as doshas, which are rooted in the five fundamental elements of earth, water, fire, air, and ether. According to Ayurvedic medicine, the doshas play a significant role in shaping an individual's physical, emotional, and mental characteristics.  This was all new to me, but I found it fascinating. It's a really interesting complimentary approach (that's been around for thousands of years!) to conventional approaches to supporting midlife wellness.   We talk about:  Understanding Ayurveda as a holistic system of healing, that includes the physical, spiritual, and emotional aspects, within the context of the universe and nature The three constitution types and why you might resonate with more than just one The influence of the earth's seasons on Vata, Pitta, and Kapha How drinking alcohol might impact your constitution type The significance of aligning lifestyle habits—such as sleep, nutrition, and movement—with your constitution type   You can learn more about Carina and connect with her on her website at https://carinagreweling.com/, and listen to her podcast THRIVE. Work with Carina:  20-Week Hormone Thrive Program 3-Week Ayurveda Hormone Detox  

Today we're diving deep into a transformative practice that can supercharge your daily joy and make you feel like you can tackle the big challenges in your life. Gratitude is not just a buzzword; it's a game-changer. It has empowered me to stay so much more present as a parent, wife, and daughter, especially in the last year of my dad's life.  In this episode, I'll share why your gratitude practice may have been ineffective in the past and what steps you have to take to make it a meaningful habit so that you can enjoy the benefits on a daily basis. The gift of gratitude is that it grounds you in the present moment. When you're actively searching for things to be grateful for, you can't help but be fully present. Links Mentioned: Episode 23: Gratitude: How To Get More Joy in Your Life (In Just 5 Minutes a Day!) To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit: https://www.wendymccallum.com/

Did you know that 1 in 10 women relies on sleep aids regularly? It's a staggering statistic, but it's hardly surprising. In today's fast-paced world, where we juggle demanding careers, relationships, never-ending to-do lists, hormonal shifts, and mental health challenges, even a mere six hours of sleep can seem like an unattainable dream. What might surprise you, however, is the potential danger hidden within those seemingly harmless sleeping pills. Today, I have the privilege of being joined by a remarkable guest on the podcast—a TEDex Speaker, the accomplished author of Stash: My Life in Hiding, and a fellow podcaster, Laura Cathcart Robbins. Laura's memoir takes us on a riveting journey through addiction and recovery. She opens up about her struggles, how she navigated a high-profile Hollywood marriage and divorce, all while facing the challenges of parenting in a world marked by privilege and racism. Laura generously shares her perspective on the multiple rock-bottom moments that defined her journey and her experience as the only person of color in most of her recovery circles. I was also eager to delve into what drove Laura to write this memoir, which reveals both the painful and hopeful moments along her path to reclaiming her life. She sheds light on the raw details of her writing journey, including facing rejection letters from sixteen publishers and completing her first draft in a mere six months. (Whaaaat?) We talk about:  Why Laura felt compelled to turn to Ambien as a coping mechanism for life's pressures The pivotal moment when Laura realized her kids had taken a back seat to her struggle The disparities in Laura and her divorce attorney's definitions of "success" The importance of creating more inclusive spaces for people of color in recovery circles How Laura meticulously curated her memoir, deciding what to include and what to leave out To learn more about Laura Cathcart Robbins and her work, be sure to visit her website at https://lauracathcartrobbins.com/, where you can grab her memoir: Stash: My Life in Hiding and check out her podcast The Only One in the Room.  You can also follow her on Instagram @lauracathcartrobbins.

If you've been curious about what life might look like without alcohol, Sober October is the perfect time to do an experiment. I'm sharing this episode with you now so you have some time to prepare for a successful break from alcohol because it absolutely requires having a solid plan. First, you'll want to start examining your assumptions about alcohol, even before you stop drinking. Practically speaking, you'll also need to decide what you'll drink instead and how you'll respond when people ask why you're taking a break. I'll also share why it's critical that we track all the positives of not drinking and learn the science around how alcohol impacts our brain and body.  Lastly, I'll talk about how doing this experiment with support can make this time of reflection so much more valuable. You can grab your Self-Guided 6-Week REWIND course (a Coach-Led Mindful Break from Alcohol) for $100USD off before October 15th using the code OCTOBERREWIND. In this episode, you'll learn Why the term “sober” might not resonate with you Why you shouldn't believe everything you think  What critical decisions you need to make before your break from alcohol begins What resources you can use to fill your mind instead of your glass Why support is helpful in making this mindful break successful   To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit: https://www.wendymccallum.com/

Vacations are over and the kids are back at school. It's that time of year when we often feel the need to get “back on track” and into the structure and routines that help us thrive. But something that we rarely consider is that as life changes, so does our personal “recipe for success.” Be it in relationships, careers, added responsibilities, shifting hormones, or the ages of your kids, life has a way of changing and throwing curve balls when it comes to maintaining a healthy routine.  So if you're looking to establish some new habits around sleep, food, movement, mental health, unhealthy coping mechanisms  (or any other area of positive change), this episode is the perfect place to start. With the tips you gather here, you'll be able to evaluate all the variables in your life at this moment so you can create habits and routines that are both achievable and supportive of your body's needs.  In this episode, you'll learn:  Why we have to consider our season of life as we build new habits How one area of change can easily fuel change in other areas of your health Why letting habits go can be just as powerful as adding habits in How to break down your habits into achievable tasks The impact of journaling about the change you want to see in yourself   To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit: https://www.wendymccallum.com/    

There's a very pervasive social narrative that moms need alcohol in order to survive motherhood. This is what is known as “mommy wine culture” and chances are, you're all too familiar with this messaging because the marketing behind it is really unavoidable.  On this episode, I'm joined by life coach and author of It's Not About the Wine, Celeste Yvonne to help us uncover the real reasons moms want to escape and why alcohol as a coping mechanism is just adding to the mayhem. We will talk about the challenges for mothers returning to the workforce, the insane lack of postpartum support, and the pressure to regularly achieve impossible parenting standards. But we're not just exposing the problem. Celeste gives us some practical advice for how to start redistributing the mental load with your partner or support system and why being active in a sober community can transform your perspective on motherhood.  In this episode, you'll learn Why it's important to get curious about your defensiveness about drinking The moment that Celeste learned she didn't have to gaslight herself any longer Why the pressure to enjoy every moment of motherhood is unsustainable The first step to take towards redistributing the division of labor in your home Why you don't have to identify as an “alcoholic” (or hit rock bottom) before you get curious about your relationship with alcohol To learn more about Celeste and her work, connect with her on her website at https://www.celesteyvonne.com, or follow her on Instagram @theultimatemomchallenge. Be sure to grab her book, It's Not About the Wine- which is available now!  To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit: https://www.wendymccallum.com/

Aaaand we're back for Season 4! My lovely co-host Sarah joins me as we share some summer updates and ease back into routines and rhythms that keep us sane! I finally moved into the house we've been renovating for months, but then we had to deal with the flooding of my husband's business and the cottage. Sarah spent a good portion of the summer in her favorite corner of the couch with a book but became a professional camp shuttle and laundry service for her busy kids too. Both of us loved enjoying the pockets of time we did have when our kids were home, and also found ways to let go of the pressure to coordinate schedules and meals for everyone as we have in the past.  Sarah and I will also check in about our goals for the fall which include working smarter, not harder, and focusing more on the work we love most! Last but not least, you'll catch a sneak preview of all I have in store for you this brand-new season of the podcast! In this episode, you'll learn:  What we planned vs. what really happened this summer Why we were aren't meal-prepping much these days Why it's so hard to maintain boundaries when everyone is home again How Sarah plans to add in more joyful movement in the fall Why Wendy is prioritizing time-blocking   To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit: https://www.wendymccallum.com/ To contact Sarah Baillie about coaching, email her at: sarahbailliecoaching@gmail.com

Wendy and Sarah are back again to wrap up season 3 of BSB and talk about the one impactful mindset shift they have made in the last couple of years that has led to them living with more compassion and way less judgment.   Drawing on a Brené Brown anecdote, Wendy and Sarah explain how everything changes when we start assuming that everyone, even the people who frustrate and disappoint us most, are “doing their best.” We can then decide how to respond from a place of empathy instead of criticism.    Everybody's best looks different, and our “best” can change from day to day, but using the “what if they're doing their best” lens helps you treat people with kindness and compassion and can also lead to you also being able to show yourself more of the same.   Topics include:    How to get started with a practice of empathy Stepping into empathy while also setting boundaries Wendy & Sarah's goals for this summer BONUS: Summer reading recommendations   To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit: https://www.wendymccallum.com/ To contact Sarah Baillie about coaching, email her at: sarahbailliecoaching@gmail.com

Wendy talks about how the empty nesting went last year with Sarah, and how she is feeling now that both of her kids are home for the summer.    Just one year ago on the podcast, Wendy shared the reality of Empty Nest Syndrome, including her apprehension and grief around her children leaving for university and the sale of their childhood home. But their time away brought many unexpected gifts, and she found herself enjoying the agency and freedom that came with the un-parenting. She traveled loads by herself, and she and her husband downsized to a fun downtown neighborhood.   There was an adjustment period around how to both parent and “un-parent” from afar, and now with her kids back at home for the summer, there's another re-adjustment happening for all of them as Full Nest Syndrome sets in.   Topics include:    understanding your own needs and communicating them  handling friction with your newly “independent” adult children what you need to let go of and care less about to fully enjoy this time   To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit: www.wendymccallum.com   To contact Sarah Baillie about coaching, email her at: sarahbailliecoaching@gmail.com  

This week Wendy is joined by Maureen Benkovich. Maureen shares her moving personal story as she and Wendy have an honest discussion about infertility, pregnancy loss, grief, depression, and women's drinking.    Maureen is someone who has experienced the pain of infertility and knows firsthand how easy it is to get stuck in a cycle of shame and blame when it comes to grief, depression, and drinking. For years, she used alcohol as a way to cope with these challenges, and it only made things worse.   But with help, compassionate support, and the latest neuroscience-based techniques, Maureen was able to break free from her patterns and transform her life. Now, as a life coach, she is committed to helping others do the same.   Topics include:   Maureen's journey through multiple miscarriages and fertility treatments The painful decision to stop treatment Her failed adoption and the grief that followed Using alcohol to deflect the pain of that grief and friends' pregnancies Her struggles with depression and anxiety,  How Maureen found herself and peace on the other side of alcohol.   To connect with Maureen, find her at https://www.soberfitchick.com or at @soberfitchickllc   To find out more about Wendy, visit www.wendymccallum.com  

This week, Wendy is joined again by her friend and colleague Sarah Baillie, N.D. to talk about the practical steps women can take to avoid hitting an emotional rock bottom in midlife. Research suggests that most people are at their unhappiest in their forties, but that this continues to improve as they age. Sarah and Wendy believe there are ways to speed that process up!   As more of their clients come to them looking for support in pro-actively making their midlife easier and happier, Wendy and Sarah have identified five key areas women can address to help create space for themselves during the time in their life when their energy and happiness are statistically at their lowest.    Whether you're preparing to head into the bottom of the u-curve of happiness, or if you're already there, these suggestions can help you and the people around you create more peace and joy in your life.   Topics include how to cut back on your to-do list, how to care less, how to say no, how to create space and time for yourself (it's not as impossible as it seems!), and how to open up and communicate what you are experiencing with your family to make it easier to take what you really need.   To contact Sarah Baillie about coaching, email her at: sarahbailliecoaching@gmail.com  

Wendy talks with Jay Fields, an educator, coach, and author who has taught the principles of embodied social and emotional intelligence to individuals and organizations for twenty years.   If you've ever wondered how to get better at sitting with your emotions, instead of drinking, eating, or scrolling to escape them, Jay's got the practical three-step solution.   Wendy and Jay discuss the importance of feeling your emotions instead of “fixing” them, and how learning to do this using Jay's approach allows us to respond instead of react, which in turn leads to deeper, more meaningful connections and personal relationships.   Topics include how people-pleasing arises from a common childhood blueprint (“never make anyone else feel uncomfortable”); how trying to “fix” an emotion instead feeling and accepting it can lead to overwhelm and burnout; the power of the words “of course” when it comes to regulating your nervous system and connecting with yourself; how felt sense increases empathy, compassion and intuition, and how “solving” emotions causes us to abandon ourselves.   More about Jay at: https://jay-fields.com/yours-truly

Today's conversation around the value of meaningful female friendships in midlife is especially poignant for host Wendy and her co-host Sarah, colleagues who have also become very good friends over the course of the last few years.   They discuss how picture-perfect social media feeds can often lead to comparison and feelings of inadequacy, and how that can keep women from reaching out when they need more connection.    But with midlife there's a sense of coming home to oneself, and with that, a level of honesty that can make women finally feel they can admit when things are imperfect. Being able to build these deeper, more vulnerable friendships nurtures our energy. Midlife is also a time when many women feel they now also have time for themselves, and these high-value friendships that could have been put on the back burner while they were prioritizing their family's growth.    If you have a story about your friendships or have any ideas of topics you'd like to hear Wendy cover in Season 4, please reach out and let her know via email or the contact section of her website: https://www.wendymccallum.com/   To contact Sarah Baillie about coaching, email her at: sarahbailliecoaching@gmail.com  

What does your inner critic sound like? In this episode, Wendy introduces coach Lorna Wilson and they dive deep into how to silence your inner critic, identify the opinions or feedback you should be paying attention to, and how not to be reliant on receiving praise from others. Wendy shares how Lorna has helped her reframe criticism and tap into her own inner mentor. The discussion stems from the book Playing Big by Tara Mohr, which Lorna and Wendy both highly recommend to all women! Lorna Wilson's journey as a life coach began with a story of courage and resilience. As a young widow, she learned early on that navigating life is certainly not always easy, but it's our life experiences that can make us stronger and more determined to create a better future. Drawing on this strength, Lorna became a certified professional Life Coach, using her personal journey to help countless women on their own paths to personal growth and fulfillment. She then became a certified alcohol-free coach, where she helps women achieve a healthier, happier lifestyle by ending the conflict between their conscious desire to drink less and their unconscious belief that alcohol is beneficial. Lorna's career experience in managing non-profit organizations and leadership roles in local government has given her a unique perspective on the challenges facing leaders and individuals in public service. She understands how those challenges can take you in a direction where you're no longer in alignment with your true calling, and that's why she's committed to helping her clients navigate the twists and turns of life, rediscover their true purpose, and unlock their full potential. If you've ever felt addicted to praise, or like one critic could topple your self-worth, you don't want to miss this episode. To connect with Lorna and learn more about her coaching services you can find her at: https://lornawilsoncoaching.com/

This is Part 2 of the “How to Do Less and Get More in Midlife” Episode. In Part 1, Sarah & Wendy discussed why so many women reach overwhelm and burnout in the care sandwich that is midlife. They shared their favourite coaching strategies and tools to help busy women scale back on their to-do list and clear some space to bring in more of the things that serve them. In this second instalment, they provide some concrete strategies for standing in personal responsibility and figuring out what you need more of in your life to create the next fulfilling joyful chapter, because no one is coming to do it for you. What matters to you about how you live the next 20 years of your life? What do you need more of? If you don't know, how do you find out? To contact Sarah Baillie about coaching services, email her at: sarahbailliecoach@gmail.com

Friends and colleagues Sarah and Wendy talk about why so many of us reach overwhelm and burnout in the care sandwich that is midlife and share their favourite coaching strategies and tools to help busy women scale back on their to-do list and clear some space to bring in more of the things that serve them (listen to Part 2 of this episode, coming soon, for those strategies!). Topics include being v. doing, how to say no more often, how to care less, how to figure out what's no longer serving you (energy drains v. gains), people pleasing and why it's a dishonest way to show up, and how it's not serving you or the people you are pleasing. They also discuss the answer to the most common question they hear from the women they support: Is this IT? (Spoiler: Nope. There's SO MUCH MORE great stuff to come.) For more on coaching with Sarah Baillie, email her at: sarahbailliecoach@gmail.com

Susan Hodgson is an Irish expat coach helping women navigate new territory with their drinking amidst the challenges of living abroad and trying to find that elusive feeling of “home”. She lives near Paris with her French husband and three kids who enjoy correcting her grammar and complaining about holidays back to the Donegal rain. Susan shares her story of becoming alcohol-free, and Wendy and Susan discuss the common misconceptions of expat life, why it can make drinking less more challenging for women, the difference between what you do and who you are, mommy wine culture abroad, learning to feel emotions instead of numbing them, the concept of “home” and how to find it anywhere and discovering yourself in midlife. This is a lovely conversation with an even lovelier human. Enjoy! More about Susan: www.sharpsensecoaching.com @sharp.sense.coaching on Instagram

Melissa Chureau is a purpose and mindset coach, lawyer, and podcaster. She helps women move beyond imposterism and perfectionism to create space in the mind, and uncover our true, integrated selves. As a lawyer for 20 years, she has witnessed many people who work and live out of alignment with their values and purpose—often because they don't know their worth, regardless of their successes. Many feel like imposters waiting to get exposed, and afraid that who they really are isn't enough. As a person with over 22 years in recovery from alcohol use disorder and a life-long ADHD-er, Melissa is all too familiar with what the experience of imposterism can do. After years of living behind the mask of imposterism, she now lives authentically and regularly shares her story to destigmatize both alcohol use disorder and ADHD. She leads meditation and mindfulness practices, leads workshops on overcoming imposterism and destigmatizing addiction and neurodivergence, offering hope and resilience tools to everyone who might want them.  In this episode, Melissa shares her story of alcohol-use disorder, ADHD, and imposterism. Wendy and Melissa discuss imposter syndrome, which groups are at a higher risk, why we need to stop pathologizing it (hint: it's not our fault!), how it shows up in humans, the connection to perfectionism, how societal systems exacerbate it, ways organizations can better support persons and mitigate against imposterism, what steps individuals feeling like imposters can take, and how are self-acceptance and self-love are the antidotes to imposterism. More about Melissa and her podcast: www.thefullymindful.com

Michael Amster, M.D., is the co-author (with Jake Eagle, LPC) of the new book The Power of Awe. Dr. Amster is a pain management specialist and awe researcher who teaches at the UC Berkeley Greater Good Science Center. He's also a long-time meditator and yoga instructor. He joins host Wendy McCallum to share what he and Jake discovered a few years ago about the amazing power of “microdosing awe” and how the simple practice they teach can impact almost every area of your physical, mental and emotional health. In this episode, Dr. Amster defines “awe” and distinguishes it from other emotions like gratitude, discusses the three types of awe and how we know we're experiencing them, and shares the quick 5 to 15 second A.W.E. Method that he developed with Jake Eagle at the start of the global pandemic. He goes on to explain the incredible results their formal awe research studies have generated and the science around why awe is such a special, powerful emotion when it comes to human wellbeing. Wendy shares her experiences practicing awe in the 24 hours after she read the book, including an interesting experience with a bathtub. They discuss the power of awe when it comes to preventing and recovering from burnout and the exciting future of research around the emotion. Wendy geeks out on science and Dr. Amster shares his hope that the future of awe includes a global social awakening. This is an incredibly interesting conversation for any busy person who's interested in improving their wellness, increasing joy, and preventing burnout. Tune in to find out how to get the benefits of a time-consuming meditation practice in just seconds a day! Find the book anywhere books are sold and get more information and free resources here: www.thepowerofawe.com

Julia Anderson shares her incredible story of leaving the narrow experience of her evangelistic Christian upbringing (including its purity culture) at the age of 19 to raise her newborn daughter and create the independent, successful life she craved. Julia is now the CEO of the Canadian Partnership for Women and Children's Health (CanWaCH) and has over 15 years of senior and executive-level experience in international development, not-for-profits, civil society, human rights, and gender equality. As CanWaCH CEO, she continues to champion bold, innovative - and even disruptive - approaches to advancing the health and rights of women and girls around the world.  Bite-Sized Balance Host Wendy and Julia met over a year ago in an online writing group. Julia discusses her experience as a female CEO in the non-profit sector, the stresses associated with that, and how she works to prioritize and maintain her own balance and that of her staff (to prevent burnout). She also shares her decision to become alcohol-free during the pandemic, as well as her personal love of writing as a creative outlet and component of self-care. https://www.canwach.ca

As a best-selling author and speaker, Meg Geisewite is changing the narrative on the mommy wine culture, hustle culture, and our pro-drinking culture. In Meg's debut book, Intoxicating Lies: One Woman's Journey to Freedom from Gray Area Drinking, Meg flips the script on the five most intoxicating lies we tell ourselves about alcohol.  In this episode, Meg shares her story of being an ordinary, working mom who found herself trapped in the mommy wine culture, and how her love of science led her to discover the real truth about alcohol and its seductive lies as she embarked on a journey to becoming alcohol-free. Wendy and Meg discuss the common lies women tell themselves including that “we deserve a drink” and that we “don't have a problem” as gray-area drinkers. They review the common signs of gray-area drinking and Meg shares her “just one sip” story. They also discuss the shame cycle, the detox to retox myth, the critical role of community for women in sobriety, the importance of self-compassion, and the non-linear path to becoming free from alcohol that is normal for most people. Instagram: @intoxicatingliesbook Website: www.intoxicatinglies.com

Emily Lynn Paulson is the author of the new book Hey, Hun: Sales, Sisterhood, Supremacy, and the Other Lies Behind Multilevel Marketing and Highlight Real: Finding Honesty & Recovery Beyond the Filtered Life. She is also a speaker, recovery coach, and the founder of Sober Mom Squad, and has given two powerful TEDx talks, both challenging the status quo of parenting, alcohol use, and feminism as we know it. Emily has also been featured in major publications such as the Today Show, New York Times, Washington Post, The Seattle Times, Chicago Tribune, Next Question with Katie Couric, and the Tamron Hall Show. Emily made well over a million dollars during her residency as a #bossbabe at one of the top MLMs. What's wrong with a little girl power? Turns out, a lot. She earned every bonus, gift, and international trip. But she also pushed away friends and family, burned bridges, and wasted precious time being distracted with ‘her business' instead of spending time with her children. She recruited hundreds of women into a dream that wasn't achievable or sustainable.   "As a stay-at-home parent, I was understandably attracted to a culture that offered a salve to my loneliness. But I learned that MLMs are actually a way for women to exploit other women. I saw the links between the pseudoscience, white supremacy, and, yes, racism that infiltrated MLM life. I'm speaking out to spark change."  -Emily Lynn Paulson Emily and I discuss: how Emily ended up in an MLM, why MLMs are often pyramid schemes, how the consultants are actually the customers, why terms like “bossbabe” and “ladyboss” are misleading, why MLMs are often described as “cultlike”, Emily's quick rise to the top of her organization and how her white privilege and pre-existing financial security made that possible, exclusion, religion and racism in MLMs, the role of “love bombing” and toxic positivity in MLMs, how MLM life encouraged her drinking and brought her to a rock bottom moment, how she exploited her cancer diagnosis for her business, the truth behind the “all-expense paid” trips and cars, the darker side of MLMs and why she decided to write this book  how it turned out differently than she'd expected. Pre-order Emily's book now: https://bit.ly/3ZehRWy

Amy and Matt Edwards are the hosts of the Alcohol-Free Marriage Podcast. Amy is also a certified coach who helps high-achieving women get out of the shame and blame cycle when it comes to their relationship with alcohol. They join host Wendy McCallum today to share their story of quitting drinking as former craft beer enthusiasts and starting the podcast – the ups, the downs, and some of the joyful surprises of leaving alcohol behind together. Tune in to find out how they got to the decision to take a mindful break from alcohol, who stopped first, who was the “ringleader” when it came to their drinking, what was hardest about quitting for each of them, whether moderation worked for either of them and what advice this couple would give an alcohol-free person whose spouse is still drinking. This is a fun and upbeat conversation with a fun and upbeat duo! Alcohol-Free Marriage Podcast info: www.Joyontheotherside.com

Tabbin Almond is a certified coach living in Devon, England, who is passionate about removing the stigma and creating meaningful employee support around alcohol use disorder. She is committed to changing the corporate wellness conversation to include alcohol as an important factor in employees' physical and mental health. Tabbin has a book in the works called The Wellness Conversation We're Not Having, where she explores the corporate world's failure to address the role that over-drinking is playing in many cases of employee burnout, depression, and anxiety. Employees are often hesitant to ask for help with their drinking because of the stigma and fear of career reprisals. If they do ask for help, the help is often woefully inadequate and misguided. Tabbin shares her personal alcohol story, including how she found her “drinking boots” during her years as a successful advertising exec, how hypnotherapy led her to a 7-year period of sobriety, how a subsequent cancer diagnosis led to her decision to drink again, and how she finally found freedom from alcohol by addressing the thoughts and beliefs that were keeping her stuck in drinking. Wendy and Tabbin discuss why this issue is so challenging for employers and Tabbin provides some creative ideas for how we can start shifting the conversation around drinking as an important aspect of overall wellness. If you have a story to share with Tabbin as part of her research on this project, please contact her at help@winetowatercoaching.com Find out more about Tabbin's coaching and Reset Retreats at: www.winetowatercoaching.com

Host Wendy and her friend and colleague Sarah Baillie discuss a 2011 article from The Atlantic (by author Sandra Tsing Loh) that is still a very relevant and hilarious read for women in midlife, no matter where they are when it comes to the hormonal transition of perimenopause and menopause. They discuss what it would mean if fertility was actually the “Big Change” and menopause was just a “return to normal” and why this theory actually makes far more sense in our modern world. Sarah talks about the value of living an “entitled life” and why this isn't selfish, but instead well-earned for her as a woman in her 50s. Wendy and Sarah discuss the power of midlife women as a demographic and why we can consider menopause a major cultural event. Sarah shares her Costco story and what she's learned about her “inside voice”. They discuss the role of declining estrogen in midlife women's diminishing drive to take care of everyone, why this is even more challenging for Gen X women in the sandwich generation, the difference between “overcare” and care, and some of this article's best nuggets of advice for midlife women. Oh, and of course, the author's Brian Hong story. Tune in to find out what made it doubly funny for Sarah this time around! For free tools and resources for making change around alcohol, burnout, or midlife, visit: www.wendymccallum.com/learn-with-wendy

Scott Pinyard is the owner and coach at Modern Coparent, a company dedicated to helping people find peace while coparenting. He has years of coaching experience both in private practice and as the Head Coach of This Naked Mind. Scott's focus is in helping people through challenging growth with compassion, patience and humor. Scott shares his personal story of modern coparenting and how he came to be a coach in this area. He explains how our lives are built on story and how these stories inform how we parent and coparent. Wendy and Scott discuss some of the most common coparenting stories, why we often get stuck in patterns that don't serve our kids, and how we can step into personal responsibility once we get clear on our stories and replace them with new beliefs that serve us better as individuals and parents. Scott provides some accessible, practical tips for parents who are currently in conflict and seeking more peace around how they are coparenting. If you are coparenting, step-parenting, or love someone else who is, this episode is a must-listen. Find out more about Scott or contact him at www.modern-coparent.com

Amanda Lee is a domestic abuse survivor and the author of the new book One of The Lucky Ones. 1 in 3 women have experienced physical violence by an intimate partner. This extraordinarily common form of abuse silences victims and paralyzes them with terror, a pattern Amanda is all too familiar with. In this episode, Amanda shares her dramatic story. Like so many women, over time her fairy-tale romance became increasingly turbulent and violent. And like so many, she felt at times that her future looked bleak, but through courage she eventually found freedom. Amanda is a sixth-grade teacher and lives with her two children in Fairfax County, Virginia, where she pursues her passion for writing and advocating for fellow victims of domestic abuse.   Wendy and Amanda discuss non-physical forms of domestic abuse like gaslighting, belittling and emotional abuse; why it can feel impossible to leave an abusive partner; how to support a loved one who is in an abusive relationship; how to know when it's time to leave; and how the legal system is failing women when it comes to protecting them from abusive situations. This is such an important topic – please listen!   Amanda's book: https://www.amazon.com/One-Lucky-Ones-Lee/dp/B0BLQYK4MF Amanda's website: www.authoraelee.com

If you recently saw the revised drinking guidelines in Canada and gasped, you're not alone. Most Canadians are drinking more than two drinks a week, the new low-risk maximum. Ann Dowsett Johnston is an award-winning journalist and the bestselling author of Drink: The Intimate Relationship Between Women and Alcohol, a book named one of the top 10 of the year by the Washington Post. Ann is also now a psychotherapist, and Wendy's friend, mentor and writing coach.   Ann joins Wendy for a discussion about the new alcohol consumption guidelines in Canada released by the Centre on Substance Use and Addiction which replace the 2011 Low-Risk Drinking Guidelines. The new guidelines present a continuum of health risks associated with different levels of alcohol consumption, including the risks of breast and colon cancer, heart disease and stroke. Ann and Wendy discuss what now constitutes low-risk, moderate and high-risk drinking, and whether our thinking needs to change in terms of what constitutes “problematic” drinking and the way we approach this issue and support each other as women. They discuss why, almost 10 years later, as Ann so aptly stated in Drink, alcohol is still “the modern woman's steroid”, and how the overwhelm and stress of the pandemic has spiked drinking levels and continued to normalize women's drinking as a necessary tool of working motherhood. They also discuss the role of alcohol marketing (specifically at women), pricing, and availability have contributed to the normalization of drinking at risky levels and why much of this is a feminist issue. They talk about what needs to happen next, including alcohol labelling and warnings on bottles, and why Big Alcohol is so resistant to these steps. Grab a cup of tea and join Wendy and Ann for a engaging, and thought-provoking conversation! Info on Ann's Writing Your Discovery Courses and psychotherapy services: https://www.anndowsettjohnston.com/ Ann's Ted Talk: ​​https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LqtZjpI1oVQ

Are you stuck in a job, habit or relationship that's not serving you? Maybe you're struggling with whether you should stick it out a little longer in case it gets better? In this episode, Wendy shares the approach she uses with coaching clients who are feeling unsatisfied and unfulfilled to help them gain clarity, get unstuck and start taking action to create the life, habits and relationships they dream of. She explains how to articulate the fear behind your resistance to change, how to make as many uncertainties in your situation “certain” to reduce that fear and anxiety, and a simple tracking system she uses with her clients that will help you know when it's time to leave. Wendy's unique approach is flexible and helpful no matter where you are feeling stuck, whether it's your career, your marriage, a friendship, or an unhealthy habit like alcohol. Need help getting started? Download your free Blueprint for Change Coaching Workbook here: www.wendymccallum.com/blueprint

Jenn Salib-Huber is a Registered Dietitian, Naturopathic Doctor, and intuitive eating advocate. Jenn provides health and hormone education to women in midlife without a side of diet culture, so they can make peace with food, aging, and hot flashes and find the confidence they deserve in midlife.   Jenn and Wendy discuss the concept of “undieting your life”, body neutrality v. body positivity, the second peak of body dissatisfaction that occurs in perimenopause, the real factors that contribute to our weight regulation (they're not what you think!), and why weight loss will never protect us from a negative body image.   They also discuss how we, as mothers, can help break the generational cycle and give our kids freedom from body image issues. Wendy reflects on her experience with weight and intuitive eating principles after ditching the scale five years ago and moving through the hormonal shifts and body changes of menopause. Dr Jenn provides some strategies for starting to create resiliency and neutrality around your own body image.   Info on Dr. Jenn and her Midlife Feast Community: www.menopausenutritionist.ca

Fellow This Naked Mind coach and friend Christy Osborne joins Wendy to celebrate her five-year anniversary of quitting drinking. Wendy shares her alcohol story, including her “last straw(s)” and talks about everything that has changed for her (big and small!) since she had her last drink. Christy and Wendy discuss some of the surprise gifts of going alcohol-free, how they parent and role model around the topic of drinking, and both share a drinking story that used to bring them shame but now just makes them proud to be non-drinkers. Wendy reflects on empty nesting and how different the last few months would likely have looked if she hadn't stopped drinking. Christy and Wendy discuss the evolution of the sober curious movement and the normalization of the conversation around sobriety as nothing more than a positive wellness choice. Questioning your drinking? Start here (for free): www.wendymccallum.com/myths More about Christy at https://www.lovelifesober.co.uk/ Follow Christy on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/lovelifesoberwithchristy/

Wendy and her best friend Megan, who have five young adult children between them, reflect on their transition to an empty nest together this fall. They share the story their unique lifelong friendship, and their shared experience entering motherhood, midlife, and now empty nesting together. They recount some of their favourite parts of living without kids again and some of the unforeseen challenges (or are they perks?) like chocolate covered peanuts for lunch and key lime pie for dinner, playlist control (Piano Chill, anyone?), finding a “new normal” with your partner, and the lack of any requirement to follow a routine. The two friends discuss the toughest parts of not having your children close by and share what they did to find their own sense of purpose before their nests emptied and how that has helped to make this a surprisingly joyful time of life. They explore the idea of anticipatory grief and provide some very helpful insight into how to prepare yourself for this next chapter of parenthood. If you've got children (or nieces, nephews or step-kids or godchildren), don't skip this one –the emotions involved in this natural transition period in midlife are universal. Please feel free to share this episode with any moms (or dads!) you know who are in the thick of this or anticipating the transition, this is a fun and positive conversation! Does your life look great on paper, but it still feels like something's missing? Grab your free Blueprint for Change Workbook here: www.wendymccallum.com/blueprint

In today's episode, regular co-host and bestie Dr. Sarah Baillie, N.D., joins host Wendy to talk all things teenager. They share their top insights and tips as experienced parents of teens, including strategies to diffuse tension, improve communication, and re-frame the teenage years to increase the joy and decrease the common frustration around parenting young adults. It's an honest, raw, and funny conversation (as always!) between two moms who get it. Don't miss this one! Topics include how to take it all less personally, how to de-escalate a disagreement, how to manage a moody teen, and how to worry less and love them more.

How many years have you made New Year promises only to find yourself making them all over again 12 months later? Wendy shares her Top 10 Tips for making lasting habit change in 2023 and every year thereafter in this bite-sized solo episode. With these strategies you'll make permanent, meaningful change this year instead of giving up when “life gets lifey”, as it always does. Learn about trying different, not harder, stacking small change, the power of positive emotion, and the pitfalls of a deprivation and willpower-based plan. Discover how to plan for real life this time, anticipate roadblocks and create contingency plans that will keep you on track. You'll leave this episode with a brand-new framework for goal setting in 2023! Ready to set yourself up for a truly successful alcohol experiment in 2023? Join Wendy in her incredibly popular 6-week small group program for women, REWIND. Starts Jan 6, 2023. Until Jan 2nd, save $100 with code “JANREWIND”. Details and registration here: www.wendymccallum.com/rewind

Wait! Before you say, “But I don't have a problem with alcohol”, know this – Wendy's tips in this bite-sized solo episode are critical to making permanent, meaningful change in ANY area of your life. Whether your coping mechanism of choice is red wine, salt and vinegar chips, cupcakes, or Nordstrom Rack, there's something in this episode for everyone. Learn the 3 C's of making change with an experiment mindset, how this approach changed EVERYTHING for Wendy in January 2018 and led to her being almost 5 years alcohol-free, and why it's the underpinning of every session she coaches and program she creates. Ready to set yourself up for a truly successful alcohol experiment in 2023? Join Wendy in her incredibly popular 6-week small group program for women, REWIND. Starts Jan 6, 2023. Until Jan 2nd, save $100 with code “JANREWIND”. Details and registration here: www.wendymccallum.com/rewind

In this episode, Wendy talks to Mary Byers, author, speaker, and coach, who helps organizations and individuals set priorities and develop winning focus, about Mary's experience with her “One Word Year” experiment. Mary explains how she has let one word guide her each year for the last decade, and how that's helped her to concentrate on what's most important, simplify her focus, and improve her life. Wendy and Mary discuss the power of this practice and Mary provides guidance on how to pick a word, how to let it guide you, and when to abandon it. Wendy explains the impact of feelings-based goals v. behaviour-based goals and the importance of flexibility when it comes to permanently changing habits and thinking. Wendy also shares her “one word” for the new year and how it came to her after she became an empty nester earlier this fall. The “One Word Year” is a wonderful alternative to making a laundry list of New Year's resolutions you'll never be able to keep. If you're looking to make some lasting, meaningful change in 2023, you'll absolutely want to listen to this episode! More about Mary Byers: https://www.marybyers.com

It's the 100th episode of Bite-Sized Balance! In today's episode of ‘the little podcast that could', regular co-host and bestie Dr. Sarah Baillie, N.D., joins host Wendy to celebrate 100 episodes of Bite-Sized Balance, the “fake” podcast that Wendy started over two years ago. They each choose a handful of episodes that stand out for them from past seasons and discuss why you should give them a listen if you haven't had the chance or are a new listener to the show.   They also talk about feeling “couchy”, the pitfalls of Daylight Savings Time, and Sarah's newfound passion for coaching.   Here are their favourite episodes with the links to watch on Wendy's website (you can also listen to all of these on your favourite podcast platform):   Episode 1: The Meno Whisperer (Dr. Sarah Baillie, N.D.) https://www.wendymccallum.com/blog/the-bite-sized-balance-podcast-with-guest-dr-sarah-baillie-nd-aka-the-meno-whisperer   Episode 9: Alcohol and Women's Burnout (Annie Grace) https://www.wendymccallum.com/blog/annie-grace-alcohol-and-womens-burnout   Episode 35: Life in the Sandwich (Wendy and Meg's Story) https://www.wendymccallum.com/blog/wendy-meg-s-story-life-in-the-sandwich   Episode 37: Pregnancy Loss & Grief (Wendy's story) https://www.wendymccallum.com/blog/infertility-loss-grief-wendy-s-story   Episode 93: Emptying the Nest – The Grief and Joy of Letting Go https://www.wendymccallum.com/blog/emptying-the-nest-the-grief-joy-of-letting-go   Episode 48: No More Fu*#s To Give – The Midlife Woman's Anthem https://www.wendymccallum.com/blog/no-more-fu-s-to-give-the-midilife-woman-s-anthem-with-dr-sarah-baillie   Episode 63: Women's Desire in Midlife (Dr. Lori Brotto) https://www.wendymccallum.com/blog/women-s-desire-in-midlife-with-dr-lori-brotto   Episode 64: Desire Debrief – The Burnout Connection https://www.wendymccallum.com/blog/midlife-desire-debrief-the-burnout-connection   Episode 66: The Midlife Therapy Every Woman Should Know About (Erika Burger) https://www.wendymccallum.com/blog/the-midlife-therapy-every-woman-should-know-about-with-erika-burger   Episode 91: The Key to Midlife Happiness https://www.wendymccallum.com/blog/the-key-to-midlife-happiness-with-dr-sarah-baillie-n-d   Episode 10: Women's Burnout and Adrenal Fatigue https://www.wendymccallum.com/blog/sarah-baillie-n-d-women-s-burnout-adrenal-fatigue   Episode 13: Burnout Prevention and Recovery https://www.wendymccallum.com/blog/dr-sarah-baillie-n-d-burnout-prevention-and-recovery   For free tools and resources for making change around alcohol, burnout, or midlife, visit: www.wendymccallum.com/learn-with-wendy

Sara McElroy is a former hustle culture devotee, ex-chief marketing officer, the Wall Street Journal's poster girl for pandemic career burnout, and a two-time member of the Great Resignation: class of 2021 and 2022. Following a stress-induced shingles diagnosis in early 2021, Sara decided to hit the reset button on her life; she quit her hard-won CMO job and trekked to Peru's Sacred Valley to reset her frayed nervous system. When she returned, she relocated from the buzzy metropolis of Atlanta to the beach in South Florida for a new job and a fresh start. But she once again encountered deeply ingrained cultural issues in her new role, and ultimately, she walked away again. Finding herself in the company of millions of other women who also set unfulfilling jobs ablaze during the Great Resignation, she returned to her journalism roots and began to explore the stories, breaking points, and defining moments that led women to seek greater opportunity mid-pandemic. These conversations became the genesis of Raze to Rise – an organization created to amplify women's voices from the Great Resignation and inspire others to blaze new trails in their own careers. According to a recent report, more than 50% of women plan to quit their jobs within the next two years (Deloitte, Apr 2022.) Wendy and Sara talk about how burnout is like a death by a thousand papercuts, and why healing often takes more than a career change or a vacation. They also discuss misogynistic and toxic workplaces, the myth of “having it all” and why the Great Resignation is representative of a much bigger shift in how women are approaching their careers. Sara shares her recent journey in becoming alcohol-free and they discuss the post-alcohol transformation that Wendy sees happen so often in her coaching practice. Finally, they make some predictions around the future of work for women and spitball some of the possible consequences of the Great Resignation for corporate North America. Links: https://www.razetorise.com/ https://www.instagram.com/sarajmcelroy/ www.linkedin.com/in/sarajmcelroy Worried you're burning out? Take my free burnout quiz, here: https://www.wendymccallum.com/pl/198095

Kelley Kitley is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist with over 20 years of experience in the field, a sought after international mental health media expert, a mom of four, and a bestselling author of her autobiography of survival “My self.” She has appeared in hundreds of publications, podcasts, live news, and radio shows including The Today Show, The Chicago Tribune, Self magazine, Shape, Dr Oz, The Drew Barrymore Show, the Wall Street Journal and the Oprah Magazine, and owns Serendipitous Psychotherapy, in Chicago.  Kelley shares her story of trauma, alcohol dependence and recovery as well as some of her best strategies as a therapist for helping women reduce overwhelm and get more present in their lives. Wendy and Kelley discuss why anxiety is on the rise, and the growing epidemic of “busyness” for women. They provide practical, accessible ideas for creating moments of mindfulness in your day including a simple coffee and shower ritual. They also explore the power of consciously choosing to care less and how this can transform overwhelmed and exhausted women's lives. Links: www.kelleykitley.com Kelley's autobiography "MY self" https://amzn.to/3VAUe8W

Racquel Reid is a certified This Naked Mind coach with a unique story of recovery. In this episode, Racquel shares her drinking story and explains why her life got smaller 11 years ago when she first stopped drinking, and how after years of feeling “abnormal” and hiding away from the world, she rediscovered her power and magic and has built a life beyond what she could have imagined. Both in the “zigs and zags” of menopause, Racquel and Wendy discuss how happy they are to be alcohol-free at this stage of their hormonal lives and how they have both discovered a confidence and clarity in menopause. Racquel shares her next big leap: taking her coaching business on the road as she explores South America and Eastern Asia on her own. As a coach, Racquel works primarily with women who have already stopped drinking but are feeling disempowered and less than magical about their own lives. More about Racquel: http://www.racquelreid.com/

If you need a good laugh and a little levity, tune into this episode, where Wendy and Sarah share the list of “Pet Peeves” that they've been accumulating together over the last year, including petty yet universal annoyances like the perpetual “goaty” smell of dishtowels and empty ice cube trays left in the freezer, but also inexplicable, less rational irritants like mimes (in general, in person or on screen), books about the Great Depression or riding trains and anything “curated, artisanal or bespoke.” There's something in this episode for everyone (if nothing else, you'll feel better about your own cortisol jacking pet peeves, promise!) Join Wendy and Sarah for a fun conversation about the small things that drive them crazy in midlife. We don't think you'll regret it. For free tools and resources for making change around alcohol, burnout, or midlife, visit: www.wendymccallum.com/learn-with-wendy

Dr. Brooke Scheller is a Doctor of Clinical Nutrition, Certified Nutrition Specialist, and expert in nutrition for alcohol use by impacting gut and brain health. She is a leader in the wellness space, pioneering the understanding of how alcohol impacts the gut, our nutritional pathways, and the brain through nutrient deficiencies.   In this episode, Dr. Brooke shares what led her to challenge her relationship with alcohol and stop drinking during the pandemic. Wendy and Brooke discuss how drinking affects our hormones in midlife, including our reproductive and thyroid hormones, and our blood sugar management. Dr. Brooke explains how drinking less can help us feel better and how our food choices can help us to cut back without feeling deprived. She provides some simple actionable steps you can take now to give your body more of what it needs to create and manage your hormones. It's a fascinating discussion you won't want to miss! More about Dr. Scheller: https://brookescheller.com/ https://www.instagram.com/drbrookescheller/