School of Midlife

After a week of ass-sitting on a tropical beach (highly recommended, by the way), I'm back and bringing you something different: my story. Not the polished “About Me” version—but the honest, messy, holy-shit-how-did-I-get-here version.From panic attacks that landed me in the ER (twice) to leaving a successful 20-year legal career with no backup plan, I'm sharing how I went from burnout to building the School of Midlife®. I'll tell you why I used to think I was just a “job whore,” how my dad's death changed everything, and why I now take two vacations a year—on purpose.But this isn't just about me. It's about you. If you've been living on autopilot, tolerating instead of thriving, or telling yourself “someday” will be the right time—this episode is your permission slip to want more. Because waiting isn't a life strategy. But building a life that fits who you are now? That's exactly the work we do here.And heads up: the Gap Year is coming back soon—and for the first time ever, with a fully 1:1 coaching option. So if you're ready to stop spinning your wheels and start living your best damn life, this is where it starts.What You'll Learn:Why I left a thriving legal career without a backup planThe moment in the ER that should've changed everything (but didn't… for 6 years)What my dad's death taught me about the trap of “someday”How I finally defined success on my termsWhy figuring out what you want, how you define success, and what your best life looks like is the only way to stop reliving the same year on repeatLinks + Resources:DM me “GAP YEAR” on Instagram: @schoolofmidlife or email me to get on the waitlistLearn more at: www.schoolofmidlife.comShare your takeaway with me: What's one area of your life you're done tolerating?

 This week, I'm recording… absolutely nothing! Best Life Laurie is officially OOO and fully planted on a tropical beach, indulging in some well-deserved “ass-sitting” (yep, that's a technical term). So today, I'm sharing a listener favorite episode that's more relevant than ever.In this replay, we explore what it really means to create a life you don't need to escape from—a life that doesn't rely on vacations to feel good. I talk about Parkinson's Law (a.k.a. why we always think we can do all the things before wheels up), how we fill our calendars with chaos, and why I've made it a non-negotiable to take two real vacations a year—one for adventure, and one for full-body rest.You'll learn why fulfillment can't be deferred until “someday,” how to start building your Best Life right now (without burning it all down), and why that sticker in a ski-town pizza joint just might be your new life motto.What We Cover:What Best Life Me looks like (spoiler: she's on the beach with a drink)Why two vacations a year is part of my success metricParkinson's Law and the midlife myth of “I can get it all done”How to stop living for the next break and start designing daily joyThe power of boundaries, and why vacation shouldn't include work emailsLiving your life now—not waiting until retirement, the next milestone, or a bigger 401(k)If You've Ever Thought…“I'll be happy when…”“There's just not enough time for rest”“I can't take a real break without the world falling apart”…this episode is your warm, sandy permission slip to think again.

Welcome to the revolution you didn't know you were waiting for — the Me First Movement.In this episode, Laurie picks up where last week's conversation left off — that uncomfortable place where high-achieving midlife women feel guilty for wanting more. She's pulling no punches as she walks you through why prioritizing yourself isn't selfish — it's strategic, sustainable, and frankly, long overdue.You'll hear why “Me First” is not “Me Only,” how women are conditioned to be last on their own to-do lists, and how shifting into Me First mode can radically improve your relationships, your leadership, and your life.From martyrdom to modeling what's possible — this is your permission slip to finally take up space, own your desires, and stop waiting for some mythical “right time.” (Spoiler alert: it's now.)

Topics Discussed: Midlife success, redefine success, fulfillment in midlife, chasing goals, personal satisfaction, self-worth✨ Show Notes:In midlife, many high-achieving women realize something startling: they've checked all the boxes—but still feel unfulfilled.In this thoughtful and powerful episode of The School of Midlife podcast, Laurie Reynoldson explores a critical question: What does success actually mean to you?Spoiler: it's not your job title. It's not your paycheck. And it's definitely not keeping up with the neighbors on Instagram.Laurie shares:Why societal definitions of success are keeping women stuck in a cycle of chasing and disappointmentHow moving the goalposts keeps you from ever feeling "enough"The deep importance of creating your own definition of successHow self-worth and fulfillment are inside jobs—not tied to accolades or approvalThe story of the fisherman and the businessman (and why it perfectly illustrates the trap we fall into)If you've ever wondered “Shouldn't I feel happier by now?” or “Is this all there is?”, this episode will help you stop chasing someone else's version of success—and start living life on your own terms.

Talking about midlife sex tips, confidence in the bedroom, menopause intimacy, erotic massage, Lee Jagger

Talking about work-life balance myth, midlife burnout, high-performing women, asking for help, midlife coaching.✨ In This Episode:Host Laurie Reynoldson gets candid about the myth of work-life balance and why it's time for midlife women to stop striving for something that doesn't exist. In this replay of an early fan-favorite episode, Laurie breaks down:Why traditional “balance” is an impossible standard (and why it's not your fault)The cultural conditioning that leads women to believe they should be able to do it allThe hidden shame of asking for help—and how to overcome itA liberating metaphor (the seesaw!) that reframes how we think about balanceWhy chasing productivity won't fix your burnout—and what to do insteadWhether you're juggling a career, caregiving, parenting, or all of the above, this episode is your permission slip to drop the guilt and reclaim your energy.

Air Date: April 8, 2025 Host: Laurie ReynoldsonEpisode Summary: In this powerful episode of the School of Midlife Podcast, Laurie shares the behind-the-scenes story of how The Gap Year was born — and why it's exactly what high-achieving midlife women need right now. If you're waking up at 2 a.m. wondering, “Is this all there is?” this episode is your wake-up call, your roadmap, and your permission slip to make a bold change without blowing up your life.You'll hear:How Laurie went from partnership-track attorney to burning it down (in the best way) to build the School of MidlifeWhy traditional “success” leaves so many women feeling empty — and how the Gap Year helps you redefine itWhy you can't keep waiting for “someday” and why the time to start is right nowWhat makes The Gap Year unlike any other personal development programExactly what's included in the Gap Year (including the 6-week Midlife Best Life Accelerator and monthly Masterclasses)If you've ever thought, “I should be grateful for my life, so why do I feel so damn stuck?” — this one's for you.LINKS + MENTIONS:

In this jam-packed episode, we're replaying Day 1 of my 3-Day Live training: “The Real Reason High-Performing Women Worry They're Having a Midlife Crisis.”Midlife isn't a crisis. But when you're a high-achieving, badass woman who's spent her life checking all the boxes, hitting every goal, and showing up for everyone else… it can feel like one.Here's the truth bomb: most of us weren't taught how to ask the right questions in midlife—we were taught to just keep going. So we hit this point where we've built an impressive life… and suddenly find ourselves wondering:What's next?Why doesn't this feel better?Am I running out of time?What do I actually want now?This episode is about waking up to that quiet “WTF is happening” voice in your head and realizing that you are not crazy, broken, or ungrateful. You're just in the middle of the most powerful pivot of your life. And today, we're naming it, normalizing it, and giving you tools to actually navigate it.

In today's episode of the School of Midlife Podcast, we're diving into how to shift from just thinking about your goals and plans to actually taking action and making progress.We all know that mindset shifts are important, but they are only the first step. If you don't couple that mindset change with action, nothing will change.This episode takes a deeper look at how we often delay action with what we think are necessary preparations and how those tasks may be just another way of procrastinating. Whether you're thinking of starting a new workout plan, writing a book, or getting more involved in your career, it's easy to find ourselves caught up in "getting ready" instead of "getting started."Learn how to move from the overwhelming thought of “I have to” to “I get to” and embrace the power of setting a timer to actually get going. Whether you set a timer for five minutes or 30 minutes, the momentum you'll gain from simply starting is often enough to keep you going.Key Takeaways:Mindset shifts are essential, but they need to be paired with action.We often delay taking action by “getting ready” with things that don't really matter.The importance of setting a timer to force yourself to start and gain momentum.Learn to shift from “I have to” to “I get to” and create a productive mindset.Even a short time commitment (5-30 minutes) can help overcome the fear of starting and make tasks feel more manageable.If you're looking to push past your procrastination and finally make some forward momentum this year, this episode will give you some practical tools to help you start now.LINKS + MENTIONS:Ep. 106: From Midlife Obligation to Opportunity: The Power of Changing Two WordsWatch on YouTube

In this episode of the School of Midlife Podcast, we dive into how a simple change in language can shift the way we experience our daily lives. By changing two small words, "I have to" to "I get to," you can transform your midlife mindset and unlock more opportunities in your life. This shift isn't just about words; it's about taking control and finding joy in everyday tasks.Key Topics:The power of language and self-talk: How the words we use can shape our reality.Why “I have to” creates feelings of obligation, while “I get to” brings opportunity, enthusiasm, intentionality, and control.The science behind our subconscious mind, including how our reticular activating system helps us focus on what we believe is important.How reframing the tasks in your day—from dentist appointments to work meetings—can change your energy and outlook.A closer look at how this shift can benefit midlife women who often feel overwhelmed by responsibilities to others.The importance of recognizing when something shifts from being an opportunity to an obligation and how to address it.Practical Tips:Start each day by reframing your “have to” tasks into “get to” opportunities.Use the Morning 5, 10, 5 exercise to align your mindset and prime your day for success.Reframe obligations into opportunities for growth and gratitude, especially for high-performing midlife women juggling multiple roles.LINKS + MENTIONS:The Morning 5, 10, 5 in the Best Life Planner: 5 things you're grateful for, 10 dreams you've achieved, and 5 things you're looking forward to today.Prior episodes on limiting beliefs and their impact on our lives:52. Stop Believing Everything You Think: The Truth About Limiting Beliefs29. Breaking Free: Overcoming Limiting Beliefs in Midlife

In this episode of the School of Midlife podcast, we dive into one of the most powerful questions you can ask yourself: What do you truly want in life?If you've spent years following the success checklist—graduate, get a job, buy a house, raise kids, climb the career ladder—this episode is for you. It's time to stop living on autopilot and reflect on whether the life you've built is aligned with your true desires or if it's time to redefine what success looks like for you.In this episode, your host Laurie Reynoldson shares her personal journey from thriving in a successful legal career to realizing that despite external achievements, she wasn't fulfilled. Through her own story and experience, she sheds light on why knowing what you want is the foundational step to living an authentic and meaningful life.Key Takeaways:Why many of us get caught in autopilot mode, following a life checklist that doesn't reflect our true desires.Laurie's personal journey from being a successful commercial real estate attorney to realizing that career success didn't equate to happiness.How to reflect on what your younger self wanted versus what you truly want now.The importance of dreaming big, even in midlife, and differentiating dreams from goals.Practical advice for redefining your vision of success and crafting a life you actually want.If you've ever wondered if there's more to life than the goals you've been checking off, this episode will inspire you to reconnect with your true self, rediscover what lights you up, and take meaningful steps toward creating the life you desire.LINKS + MENTIONS:Want to watch the video? Click here!If you want to dive deeper into exploring what you truly want and how to design a life that reflects your unique desires, Laurie offers coaching and retreats. Click here to inquire about 1:1 coaching.Interested in learning more about the Gap Year? Click here!Connect with Laurie:Website: https://schoolofmidlife.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schoolofmidlifeOne More Thing! Enjoyed today's episode? Don't forget to subscribe to the School of Midlife podcast and leave us a review! Share this episode with a friend who might need a little midlife inspiration.

Tired of feeling like you need a vacation to "reset" your life?In this episode, your host Laurie Reynoldson talks about the importance of designing a lifestyle that leaves you feeling refreshed every single day. Learn how to align your work, passions, and personal life in a way that creates constant fulfillment and peace.It's all about small changes that lead to big impact—so you can stop dreaming about vacation and start living your ideal life right now.

Remember when you first started dating? When you'd spend all night on the telephone...talking about everything and nothing at all?And now that you're in the midlife transition, not only does it feel like you have nothing at all to talk about with your spouse, but it also feels like the intimacy and affection are gone.In this episode, Laure shares three simple ways to get the affection and intimacy back...even when you're feeling cringey and full of meno-rage, when you're screaming on the inside, but smiling on the outside.LINKS + MENTIONS:whatthemenopause

In today's episode of the School of Midlife podcast, we challenge the conventional notion of a "midlife crisis." Host Laurie Reynoldson dives deep into why the term "midlife crisis" is outdated and doesn't serve the high-performing women navigating midlife today. Rather than viewing midlife as a crisis, this episode reframes it as an incredible opportunity, a reset, and a turning point.We discuss:The origins of the term "midlife crisis" and how it was initially framed around men's career and mortality concerns.The different emotional experiences men and women face during midlife, including identity shifts, caregiving roles, and societal pressures related to aging.Why we should stop using the term "crisis" and start viewing midlife as an opportunity for reinvention.How societal expectations, especially for women, have historically contributed to feelings of dissatisfaction or anxiety, and how we can take control of our own narratives in midlife.Key questions to ask yourself as you enter this new chapter, including how you define success and what your best life truly looks like.This episode encourages listeners to embrace midlife as a time for growth, change, and intentional decision-making, rather than a time of crisis. Let's dive into the idea that midlife is not a period of difficulty but an opportunity for self-discovery, empowerment, and redefining our future.LINKS + MENTIONS:Free LIVE Training from the School of MidlifeEp. 101: Striving vs. Thriving in Midlife: How to Stop Chasing and Start Living

In today's episode of The School of Midlife, we dive into a critical question for high-performing women in midlife: When is enough enough? Many of us find ourselves caught in the cycle of constantly striving for more—more success, more accolades, more achievements—but at what cost?As high achievers, we often feel like we're almost there—whether it's a financial goal, a physical milestone, or even the approval of others—but somehow, that feeling of fulfillment always seems to slip through our fingers. Why is that?This episode unpacks the internal struggle many women face in midlife as they try to balance ambition and contentment. We'll explore:The never-ending pursuit of more: why we keep moving the goalposts and how it impacts our happiness.The myth of "doing more" and why adding to your to-do list isn't the solution.The importance of defining your version of success and learning to say "enough" without guilt.How we were raised to follow a checklist of societal expectations—and why it's time to break free.Practical advice on how to live the life you actually want, right now, instead of delaying joy and fulfillment for some future date.We'll also touch on the game-changing ideas from Die With Zero by Bill Perkins, which challenges us to prioritize experiences over accumulation and how embracing this philosophy has helped many of us in midlife stop living for the next milestone and start living for today.If you're ready to rethink what success means, let go of the "good girl" checklist, and take control of your midlife, this episode is for you.LINKS + MENTIONS:Die with Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life by Bill Perkins1:1 Coaching with LaurieGroup Coaching: Gap Year

In this milestone 100th episode of The School of Midlife podcast, Laurie Reynoldson reflects on the journey so far and celebrates the incredible community that's grown around this space. Laurie shares her excitement for how the podcast has evolved and highlights the challenges we face in making lasting changes in our lives.As January rolls in, many of us are setting New Year's resolutions focused on lifestyle changes—getting fit, eating better, reclaiming work-life balance—but as Laurie points out, most of these resolutions tend to fall apart as the year progresses. But what if the biggest barrier to lasting change isn't about how hard we work or how committed we are to our goals, but rather the stories we tell ourselves?In today's episode, Laurie dives deep into the power of mindset and how the limiting beliefs we hold about ourselves can be the real roadblocks to the success we desire. She talks about how we can all be our biggest cheerleaders—if we can first change the narrative we've been telling ourselves. Whether it's feeling too old, too slow, or not good enough, these self-limiting thoughts keep us stuck and prevent us from achieving our full potential.Laurie encourages us to look at our limiting beliefs head-on and start rewiring our subconscious minds to believe that we are worthy of the change we seek. If we keep arguing for our limitations, we get to keep them—but if we decide to release these outdated beliefs, we open the door to a new, empowered version of ourselves.It's time to take out the trash, clean up your mindset, and start creating the life you truly want. Tune in to learn how to break free from self-doubt, step into your power, and make this year the one where change sticks!In This Episode, You'll Learn:Why mindset is the key to making lasting lifestyle changes.How the limiting beliefs you hold about yourself may be sabotaging your progress.Practical tips for identifying and reframing negative thoughts.Why self-deprecating humor and negative self-talk are more harmful than we realize.How to stop arguing for your limitations and start living the life you deserve.

In this replay episode of the School of Midlife podcast, we're diving deep into the transformative power of setting the one thing that can change everything for you in 2025.In past episodes, we've explored why reflecting on the previous year is key to setting meaningful goals for the year ahead. Today, we're shifting focus to the most important step of all: selecting that one crucial action or decision that will lead to your best year yet.Here's what you can expect in today's episode:Reflection: Why it's crucial to take the time to assess 2024 before setting goals. The traditional "hit the ground running" mentality is overrated—this year, we're focusing on clarity before action.Real vs. Throwaway Goals: Learn the difference between goals that are just to check off a list (throwaway goals) and goals that truly push you to evolve (real goals). Real goals require change, growth, and sometimes even a bit of discomfort.Choosing Your One Thing: What's the one action or decision that will make the biggest difference in your life this year? Whether it's starting something new, stopping something that no longer serves you, or making a life-changing decision, you'll discover how to break that one thing down into actionable steps.Planning for Success: Get practical advice on how to break down your big goal into smaller, more manageable tasks. I'll share my system for visualizing and tracking progress, from setting deadlines to celebrating milestones along the way.Accountability and Support: If you're feeling overwhelmed or unsure about how to break down your big goal, I'm here to help. I'm offering a limited number of one-on-one coaching sessions to create personalized action plans to help you achieve your 2025 goals.What's Coming Next: Next week, we'll dive into the habits that will support your goal. As I always say, it's not just about the goal, but the person you become while working toward it.If you're ready to make 2025 the year that everything changes, this episode is a must-listen. Whether you're on the go or at home, take a moment to really think about your one thing—the action that could transform your life—and let's get to work on making it happen.Links + Mentions:2024 Year End ReviewMy Favorite Wall Calendar and Post-ItsReach Out for One-on-One Coaching

In this heartfelt episode of the School of Midlife podcast, we dive into how you can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those facing life-altering challenges, both in the wake of the devastating wildfires in Los Angeles and in other personal struggles that many people are going through right now. Whether it's loss, cancer diagnoses, or any unexpected hardship, this episode provides practical and compassionate ways to support those in need.In This Episode, You'll Learn:How to respond to the devastation in Los Angeles: The catastrophic wildfires have left entire communities destroyed. We discuss how you can help—whether you're on the ground in California or across the country.Donate essentials: Items like soap, deodorant, clothing, and other basic needs are being collected for those impacted.Send direct financial support: Whether through Venmo, PayPal, or GoFundMe, many people need help covering immediate expenses as they rebuild.Trusted charities: Learn about reputable organizations like the Red Cross, Los Angeles Firefighters Foundation, and World Central Kitchen, which are providing on-the-ground relief.The importance of offering proactive help: Rather than saying "let me know if you need anything," find out how you can offer tangible assistance like:Preparing meals, offering to walk pets, or helping with administrative tasks like insurance claims.Using your special skills to help people navigate their challenges—whether you're in real estate, caregiving, or even organizing skills.Emotional support matters: A simple text or note, offering no-expectation support, can make a huge difference for someone going through a tough time. It's not always about the big gestures—sometimes it's the small, thoughtful acts of kindness that mean the most.Don't hesitate to accept help when you need it: Women, in particular, often struggle with accepting help due to feelings of guilt or shame. But remember, those around you want to help! By allowing them to do so, you're giving them the gift of supporting someone they care about. LINKS + MENTIONS: GoFundMe for Maggie, Maddie and LucyRed CrossLos Angeles Fire FoundationWorld Central KitchenPasadena Humane Society

In this first episode of 2025, host Laurie Reynoldson challenges the "new year, new me" mindset and shares why starting slow might be your secret weapon for lasting change. Drawing from her past running experience, Laurie explains why there are "no points for starting fast" and how to create sustainable change in midlife. Learn why your decades of experience are an asset, not a liability, and how to set yourself up for success without overwhelming yourself in January.Key topics:Why the "new year, new me" mentality sets us up for failureHow to ease back into routines after the holiday seasonThe importance of building on your existing experience and wisdomPractical tips for setting a meaningful tone for your yearWhy scheduling time for yourself should be as non-negotiable as a hair appointmentLINKS + MENTIONS:Ep. 96: Want 2025 to Be Your Best Year Yet? Do This Before You Get Started!Year-End Review Guide

In this final episode of 2024, host Laurie Reynoldson shares her comprehensive approach to conducting a meaningful year-end review before setting goals for 2025. This essential practice helps high-performing midlife women build a stronger foundation for the year ahead instead of rushing into new goals without reflection.You'll learn Laurie's proven process to review the past year in a way that sets you up for greatness in the year to come. If you're looking to make 2025 one of your best years yet, make sure to complete your 2024 year-end wrap-up before you hit the ground running in 2025.Cheers to living your best life in 2025!LINKS + MENTIONS:Year-End GuideBest Life Planner

In this week's episode, Laurie introduces you to the perfect gift to give yourself this year: a spot in the Gap Year. The Gap Year is the School of Midlife's yearlong program for high-performing midlife women to figure out who they are, what they actually want, and what matters most in this season of life.Claim your spot in the 2025 class before the doors close on December 20th!If you're looking to make 2025 your best year yet, it's time for your Gap Year.LINKS + MENTIONS:The Gap Year

In this special Friday episode of the School of Midlife podcast, I'm talking with Moya Dolsby, one of the members of the Founding Cohort for the Gap Year.The Gap Year is the School of Midlife's 12-month experience-based group coaching program for high-performing midlife women. The yearlong course help women figure out who they are now, what they actually want, and what matters most to them in this season of life and beyond.Doors to the 2025 Class are now open! This only happens twice a year, and the class roster will be final when the doors close at 11:59pm on December 20, 2024. You can learn more about the Gap Year and claim your spot in the 2025 Class at www.schoolofmidlife.com/gapyear.

In this episode, Laurie is talking about how embracing imperfection can minimize some of the stress and burnout of the holidays. She's discussing the importance of giving yourself permission to have a "C+ Holiday." For the Straight-A students, this concept may feel a little strange, but C's are passing grades. By using Laurie's planning framework, you can create A+ holiday experiences for yourself and others...with C+ effort.Let this be the year that you write your own permission slip to focus your time and attention only on the things that will bring you the most joy this season...and let everything else go.LINKS + MENTIONS:School of Midlife's FREE Living Trainings in December

It is easy to get a little lost amidst the holiday hustle and bustle. There is a seemingly unending list of "to do's" to be completed before the end of the year, both work-related and those related to the holiday season.In this episode, Laurie offers up one question that will help you avoid holiday overwhelm: is it an obligation or an opportunity? With that simple test in mind, you'll learn how to stop doing things this season that no longer bring you joy, and you'll know how to mindfully create holiday traditions that honor your personal boundaries.If you're doing things this season solely because of a sense of obligation, Laurie gives you permission to take it off of your "to do" list. As Laurie reminds you, "your personal happiness, peace, fulfillment and joy around the holidays are just as important as everyone else's."LINKS + MENTIONS:School of Midlife's FREE Live Trainings in December

In this week's episode, Laurie is discussing her recent vacation in London and Paris, and sharing all of the incredible experiences she had "across the pond." She's also talking about the most surprising thing she learned while away.This episode is full of great recommendations for any midlife woman interested in spending time in two of the best European cities. You'll want to be sure to download it to refer to when planning your next vacation in London or Paris!Links + Mentions:School of Midlife's Free Live Training in DecemberBest Life PlannerHave Yourself a Merry Little Midlife Holiday Episodes:Enjoy Thanksgiving This Year -- Yes, Even with Family DramaWhy the Best Holidays Are C+ HolidaysBoundaries to Fight Holiday Burnout with Erica DavisBeating the Holiday Blues: When Festive Feels Like a FarceLONDON:Private Tours in London - We toured with Rob Humphreys for a Government Tour one day, and a Rock-n-Roll Tour another dayLondon Bicycle Tour Company - The Classic TourChelsea F.C.Hamilton - LondonPARIS:Dinner Cruise on the SeineFood Tours: Paris by Mouth and We Taste Paris - can't say enough great things about our guide Aurelien Laban!Cooking Class - we did the market tour + lunch cooking class

In this episode, Laurie is talking about the importance of setting and holding healthy boundaries to protect your time and energy during the holiday season. In particular, I'm discussing why boundaries are the very best gift to give yourself this year.Key Takeaways:-Learn how to say “no” without guilt, manage family expectations limit commitments, and make self-care a priority-Tips to stick to your holiday boundaries...even when you experience pushback from family and friendsLINKS + MENTIONS:Best Life Planner

In this week's episode, Laurie is discussing how focusing on healthy habits now — instead of waiting until the New Year — will not only help you enjoy the holidays this year, but will also set you up to start 2025 strong.The best part: if you focus on your health and wellbeing now, you'll likely enjoy the holidays  more, end the year on a high note, and use that momentum to carry you into next year so that you can make 2025 your best year yet!Key Takeaways:-The holidays bring packed schedules and oftentimes, neglected health. Protect yourself by prioritizing healthy habits.-Don't deprive yourself or wait until January — start building momentum right now! You'll have a head start on any 2025 goals.-Establishing healthy habits now makes it easier to set boundaries and say “no” to holiday obligations that won't serve you.-The momentum you build now will make next year's goals feel like a continuation…not that you're starting from zero.-Healthy habits like daily exercise, good sleep, nutrition and mindfulness will reduce stress and support you starting next year feeling recharged.Links + Mentions:Best Life Planner

Today is Election Day of what feels like a marathon election season.In this week's episode, Laurie is sharing five simple tips to assuage Election Day anxiety and stress: cast your ballot, practical tips for self-care, reduce exposure to the news, limit consumption of alcohol, and more.Everything Laurie shares in this episode also works beyond Election Day to limit periods of stress and anxiety.

In this week's episode, Laurie is making the case that while SMART goals may be great for business goals, they are not serving you when it comes to your personal life. She talks about how SMART goals create an all-or-nothing, success or failure framework from which to judge whether we achieved the goals we've set...or not achieved them. While that works for business goals -- especially pertaining to sales numbers or customer service ratings -- that same approach hurts us when we try to apply it to our personal goals. Finally, she introduces you to "throwaway goals," and explains why those should be relegated to your "to do" list.This is a must-listen episode for any woman who seems to start each year with the same set of SMART goals...just to end the year with not a lot to show for them.LINKS + MENTIONS:Gap YearBest Life Retreat 

It's Halloween season! In today's episode, Laurie is discussing all of the masks that midlife women wear in their lives. She's talking about how we use masks to hide our truest and most authentic selves behind a persona that is more approachable to those around us. But at what cost?You'll want to stay to the end, when Laurie removes her own mask, and candidly shares why it's hard to wear certain masks day-in and day-out.This episode is a great reminder for all times of the year, not just Halloween.LINKS + MENTIONS:Episode 84: Who Run the World? Why the School of Midlife Is Not Co-EdBest Life Retreats

In this week's episode of the School of Midlife podcast, Laurie is discussing the utmost importance of having new experiences to creating the life you want to live.If you feel like you're living the same day over and over again, or that each year goes faster than the last, you'll love this discussion of how to slow down time and infuse your life with meaning along the way.LINKS + MENTIONS:Best Life RetreatThe Gap Year

In this week's episode, Laurie is answering a question she receives all the time about the School of Midlife. That is: why is it for women only?Laurie posits that the world is set up for men. She uses real-life examples of why midlife women need a safe, supportive community like the School of Midlife. You'll definitely be able to relate to this one!We want to hear from you! Click here to share your stories about being a woman in a man's world.

When you think of making midlife your best life, do you also think about traveling? If so, you're not alone!What if I told you that your next vacation was as close as going to the grocery store, filling your car up with gas, ordering all of those Amazon packages?Today's guest Megan Lanford from Points Too Paradise specializes in turning rewards points into luxury travel. That's right: all those everyday things you're already buying? Megan will teach you how to turn them into first-class plane seats, luxury hotel stays, tickets to the most sought-after attractions and more.In this episode, you'll learn about the difference between flexible point cards and branded cards, why you shouldn't be concerned about carrying more than ten credit cards at any given time, how to put start planning rewards travel, and more!LINKS + MENTIONS:Grab your copy of Megan's Travel Points 101Connect with Megan: InstagramListen to Megan's Podcast 

In this week's episode of the School of Midlife podcast, Laurie is discussing the rise in grey divorce, emotional affairs in midlife, and whether it's time to cut and run. You'll discover that a staggering 92% of women have been involved in emotional affairs, but their reasons for doing so just may surprise you.Laurie covers the latest statistics, introduces you to a common workplace scenario, and even gives some pointers to salvage your marriage.Whether you decide or stay or go, this episode will make you think, and perhaps, help you understand you are not alone in the feelings you're having.

In this week's episode, Laurie is talking about a recent health scare (she's fine!), why she thought she may have accidentally manifested it, and the three simple life lessons she learned from it.LINKS + MENTIONS:"Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle" by Emily Nagoski, Ph.D and Amelia Nagoski, DMA

Have you ever noticed that your priorities immediately shift when you experience a life-altering event? Or receive life-changing news about yourself, a friend or loved one?In this week's episode, Laurie explains why you can't afford to wait until the time is right, or perfect or someday to start living your best life. So many of us are waiting to make ourselves a priority in our own lives.But as Laurie discusses, it's time to stop waiting and start living. We don't have to delay living our best lives until after we receive news or experience something that rocks us to the core. We can start now.LINKS + MENTIONS:Best Life Retreat in Sun Valley, IDGap Year Priority List

In this episode, Laurie shares a number of pointers to help you navigate having the tough conversations with your parents about long-term care and end-of-life issues. After last week's episode about talking with your spouse, several listeners asked for this follow-on episode to help them better approach tricky conversations with their parents.Laurie draws from her own experience, and shares simple tips to help you prepare for and normalize conversations with your parents, treat them with the dignity and respect that they have earned, and show them that you have their best interests at heart.This one is a must-listen for any midlife woman whose parents are still alive because even if she isn't currently going through these issues, she will someday. And as Laurie says, talking with your parents about these issues is just like talking with your kids about sex and drugs. You need to start earlier than you think.LINKS + MENTIONS:Episode 78: Don't Touch Me! 3 Simple Ways to Avoid Meno-Rage Ruining Intimacy in Your Midlife MarriageMasterclass: How to Parent Your ParentsBest Life Retreat

Remember when you first started dating? When you'd spend all night on the telephone...talking about everything and nothing at all?And now that you're in the midlife transition, not only does it feel like you have nothing at all to talk about with your spouse, but it also feels like the intimacy and affection are gone.In this episode, Laurie shares three simple ways to get the affection and intimacy back...even when you're feeling all cringey and full of meno-rage, when you're screaming on the outside, but smiling on the outside.LINKS + MENTIONS:whatthemenopauseBest Life Retreat

In this episode, Laurie introduces you to a simple but powerful daily practice that she just learned. It focuses on gratitude, forgiveness and love. And it starts with expressing those powerful statements to yourself. Laurie shares her personal revelation about the difficulty of applying this practice to herself, highlighting the challenges of self-love and forgiveness.LINKS AND MENTIONS:

As high-performing midlife women, we've been comparing ourselves to everyone around us for most of our lives. How do we measure up against society's standards? Are we meeting our parents' expectations of us? How does our life compare to the perfectly curated lives we see on social media?But here's the problem: comparing our lives to some contrived notion of what it means to be successful means that we can be successful by every societal measure, having checked all of the "success" boxes...and still feel unfulfilled. Like something is missing. Like we were made for something more.In this episode, Laurie encourages us to move away from the comparison loop, and figure out what is meaningful to us. As midlife women, it's time to get very clear on what we want in life and how we define success. On our own terms. Without deference to anyone else's expectations.LINKS + MENTIONS:Best Life RetreatGap Year

Have you noticed the photos and videos on social media of women attending retreats? Doesn't it look like they're having the BEST time? Honestly, it's because they are. They're away from all of the obligations of work and family life, and focusing on themselves for once. At a luxury resort. Eating incredible food, getting massages, taking hikes. Sounds pretty good; doesn't it?!In this replay episode, Laurie is talking with Monica Sowders, a Texan who traveled all the way to Idaho last fall to attend the BEST LIFE Retreat in Sun Valley, Idaho. Together, they're discussing the magic that can happen in just 4 days away at a women's retreat: the personal insights learned, new friendships formed, and a chance to focus on creating the life you want to live.Registration for this year's BEST LIFE Retreat is now open! There are just a handful of spots left, and when they're gone, they're gone. This will sell out, so grab your spot now!LINKS + MENTIONS:Best Life RetreatsRegister for the Fall 2024 Retreat!Single Room (Full Pay)Single Room (2 Payments)Shared Room (Full Pay)Shared Room (2 Payments)Best Life PlannerYour Next Chapter Book Club

In part 2 of this episode of the School of Midlife podcast, I continue my deep dive into the beauty and skincare industry with the incredible Annie Tevelin, founder of Skin Owl. We start by discussing the staggering $670 billion beauty industry and its impact on our perceptions of aging and self-worth. Annie shares her insights on how Skin Owl promotes self-love and care, especially for women over 45, who are often overlooked by the beauty industry.We explore the societal pressures to maintain youthful appearances and how women can reframe their perspectives on aging. Annie emphasizes the importance of skincare as a moment of self-check-in and care, rather than a means to achieve unrealistic beauty standards. She also highlights the significance of protein intake and the use of specific skincare ingredients like hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, and retinol to support aging skin.Annie's passion for empowering women extends beyond skincare. She recently pursued a lifelong dream of making music, resulting in a heartfelt project that reflects a pivotal time in her life. This venture has even led to opportunities in syncing her music with movies and TV shows.Throughout the episode, we discuss the importance of self-care, the value of surrounding oneself with positive influences, and the need to embrace aging as a journey of personal development. Annie's insights and experiences offer a refreshing perspective on how to navigate midlife with grace and confidence.For those interested in learning more about Skin Owl or connecting with Annie, she provides various ways to reach out, including visiting their store in Boise or engaging with them online. This episode is packed full of wisdom for any midlife woman looking to make her best life yet.LINKS + MENTIONS:Connect with Annie:Skin Owl on InstagramSkin Owl websiteCall Skin Owl: 1-844-SKINOWLBEST LIFE Retreat in Sun Valley, ID

In this episode of the School of Midlife podcast, I dive into the pervasive influence of the $670 billion beauty and personal care industry, which often convinces us to chase younger versions of ourselves. Joined by the incredible Annie Tevlin, founder of Skin Owl, we explore the importance of loving the skin we're in and discuss empowering messages for women.Annie shares her journey from a film major aspiring to be a music video director to becoming a makeup artist and eventually founding Skin Owl. Her personal struggle with severe acne led her to study cosmetic chemistry at UCLA, where she learned to formulate plant-based skincare products. This knowledge helped her create a product that healed her skin and eventually led to the birth of Skin Owl, a company dedicated to vegan, cruelty-free, and plant-based skincare.We discuss the lack of regulation in the U.S. beauty industry, highlighting the importance of being informed about the ingredients in our personal care products. Annie emphasizes the need to avoid certain harmful ingredients such as synthetic fragrances, parabens, 1,4-Dioxane, dimethicone, and certain dyes, which can have long-term health impacts.Annie also touches on the importance of starting small when transitioning to cleaner products, suggesting that listeners begin by replacing one product at a time. This approach makes the process more manageable and less overwhelming.Throughout the episode, we stress the significance of self-care and how it ties into skincare, especially for midlife women. Annie's insights and expertise provide valuable information for anyone looking to make more informed choices about their beauty and personal care products.Join us next week for part two of this conversation, where we'll focus on healthy living tips for our skin and bodies and Annie's top three skincare tips for women to feel and show up as their best.LINKS + MENTIONS:Connect with Annie:Skin Owl on InstagramSkin Owl websiteBEST LIFE Retreat in Sun Valley, ID

In today's episode, Laurie is catching you up on all of the exciting things going on at the School of Midlife! There's a new website, a new quiz, and a brand new signature program, the Gap Year. Your life can be dramatically different in one year, and Laurie explains how the Gap Year can help you make this year your best year yet!LINKS + MENTIONS:

In today's episode, Laurie is joined by Dr. Laura DeCesaris, a functional medicine practitioner who specializes in women's health and wellness. She teaches women in perimenopause and menopause about their bodies and brains, so they can make better decisions for their health and leverage their hormones to live their best life.This episode is part two of our conversation. In this second part of the conversation, Dr. Laura and I shift the primary focus away from hormones – although they still come up – to gut health and why Dr. Laura says that gut health is of utmost importance to our overall health and well-being. We're also discussing brain health and why it's so important for midlife women, the benefits of biohacking, and more. You'll want to stay to the end, when Dr. Laura shares the top 3 things midlife women should prioritize to feel and show us as their best self.If you're serious about making midlife your best life from a health and wellness perspective, you'll get so much out of this conversation. And just like last week's episode, this is an episode you'll want to download and listen to again before your next doctor's appointment.LINKS + MENTIONS:Episode 70 with Dr. Laura DeCesaris FREEBIE: Discover the Top 10 Techniques Used by Busy, High-Performing Women Around the World for Optimal Health, Hormone Harmony and LongevityLabs List:Hormone panel, Lipids panel, CBC panel, Metabolic panel, Fasting Insulin, Vitamin D, Thyroid panelDr. Mary Claire HaverCynthia Thurlow, NPConnect with Dr. Laura DeCesaris:www.drlauradecesaris.com InstagramLinkedIn

In this week's episode, Laurie is joined by Dr. Laura DeCesaris, a functional medicine practitioner who specializes in women's health and wellness. Dr. Laura teaches women in perimenopause and menopause about their bodies and brains, so they can make better decisions for their health and leverage their hormones to live their best life.In this episode, we primarily focused on hormones. We start by discussing what happens to women from a physiological perspective during perimenopause and menopause. From there, our conversation shifts to all things hormones: different types of hormone replacement therapy, the difference between bioidentical and synthetic hormones and why you should care, annual tests that you should be requesting to establish a good baseline of information so you and your care provider can easily spot changes, lifestyle shifts that will support our hormone health, and more.If you're someone who is not a good candidate for HRT, you'll want to listen in because we talk about alternatives for you, too.Because I had so many questions for Dr. Laura, this is the first of two episodes with her. We continue our conversation in next week's episode, which focuses on gut health, brain health, and the top 3 things midlife women should prioritize to feel and show up as their best self.LINKS + MENTIONS:FREEBIE: Discover the Top 10 Techniques Used by Busy, High-Performing Women Around the World for Optimal Health, Hormone Harmony and LongevityLabs List:Hormone panel, Lipids panel, CBC panel, Metabolic panel, Fasting Insulin, Vitamin D, Thyroid panelDr. Mary Claire HaverCynthia Thurlow, NPConnect with Dr. Laura DeCesaris:www.drlauradecesaris.com InstagramLinkedIn

In this episode of the School of Midlife podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Emilee Wise, a holistic health, wellness, and nutrition coach who specializes in working with midlife women. Emilee is also an accomplished endurance athlete and coach, and she brings a wealth of knowledge from her diverse background in sports medicine, finance, early childhood development, spiritual psychology, and functional medicine.We discussed the overwhelming amount of health and wellness information available to midlife women, especially on social media. Emilee emphasized the importance of cutting through the noise to find what truly works for each individual.She shared her journey from sports medicine to finance and back to health and wellness, highlighting her frustration with traditional medical approaches that often overlook root causes.Emilee explained her holistic approach to coaching, which goes beyond just nutrition. She focuses on understanding clients' relationships with their bodies, food, and exercise, and helps them prioritize their well-being.We delved into the importance of managing blood sugar levels, especially for midlife women. Emilee provided actionable tips, such as eating fiber first, followed by proteins and fats, and saving starchy carbohydrates for last to maintain steady blood sugar levels. She emphasized the critical role of strength training for midlife women, particularly in maintaining muscle mass, bone density, and overall health. She recommended lifting heavy weights and incorporating plyometric exercises to keep muscles responsive.We also explored the benefits of functional medicine, which looks for root causes of health issues and treats the whole person rather than just symptoms. Also, Emilee highlighted the significance of mindset and attitude towards aging and body changes. She encouraged women to embrace the aging process and focus on overall well-being rather than just physical appearance.This episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice for midlife women looking to improve their health and wellness. Emilee's holistic approach and deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by midlife women make her an incredible resource. Whether you're dealing with hormonal changes, struggling with nutrition, or looking to incorporate strength training into your routine, this episode offers something for everyone.LINKS + MENTIONS:Connect with Emilee:

Here at the School of Midlife, we talk a lot about making midlife our best life. But what, exactly, does that mean? What is a best life? What is a dream life?In this replay episode, Laurie is discussing the importance of knowing what your dream life looks like so that you can make it a reality. Most high-achieving midlife women are accustomed to chasing all of the promotions and the accolades. What they're not as comfortable thinking about: the life of their dreams.But there comes a point in life -- usually in midlife -- when they realize that they want something more. Something just for themselves. And that's when they (finally) start thinking about their own dreams.LINKS + MENTIONS: