Podcasts about midlife

My guest this episode is Mike Carden. He's an author from England who came to writing in midlife. He has independently published six books. Many of them are humorous cycling travelogues. They mix history, conversation, and self-deprecating humor. Readers connect with his warmth and honesty. Find more author advice, tips, and tools at our Self-publishing Author Advice Center, with a huge archive of 2,000+ blog posts, and a handy search box to find key info on the topic you need. We invite you to join our organization and become a self-publishing ally. About the Host Howard Lovy has been a journalist for 40 years and now amplifies the voices of independent author-publishers and works with authors as a developmental editor. Find Howard at howardlovy.com, LinkedIn, and X. About the Guest Mike Carden lives and works in Dorset on the south coast of England and began his writing career around the start of the millennium, after years in marketing and sales for the textiles industry. He has since independently published six books, starting with a series of quirkily funny cycling travelogues, including The Full English: Pedalling through England, Mid-Life Crisis, and Truly Rampant Man-Flu. He later returned to a long-delayed project, a trilogy of historical novels based on the life of Alfred the Great, and successfully brought it to publication on his own terms. He is currently working on a new whodunnit set in the English Lake District.

It can be emotionally complicated for women whose lives don't look the way they once imagined — whether they're divorced, empty nesters, newly single, or decades into marriage. Rachel reframes Valentine's Day as an opportunity to fall back in love with your life, not just a partner.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/arroe-collins-like-it-s-live--4113802/support.

Natalie talks with coach Gabrielle Treanor about ADHD in midlife, particularly for quieter, introverted women who don't see themselves in stereotypical presentations. They explore late diagnosis, shame, coping mechanisms, grief, and why understanding your brain differently is about self-acceptance, not excuses. The Quiet ADHD Club Gabrielle Treanor's website Episode show notes:  Leave a voice note: https://www.speakpipe.com/baggagereclaim  Support the podcast and leave a tip: https://baggagereclaim.ck.page/products/podcast  'Reclaimed' membership: https://www.baggagereclaim.co.uk/reclaimed/ Work with me: https://www.baggagereclaim.co.uk/consultations/ Baggage Reclaim: https://www.baggagereclaim.co.uk  Shop courses and books: https://store.baggagereclaim.com Sign up for my newsletter: https://www.baggagereclaim.co.uk/newsletter/  

Why does sex often become uncomfortable, pressured, or disconnected in midlife — even in loving relationships?Book a Discovery Call for Relationship Renovation CoachingIn this episode, EJ and Tarah are joined by Dr. Maria Sophocles, board-certified gynecologist and national menopause expert, to explore what she calls The Bedroom Gap — the growing difference in expectations, desire, and physical experience that many couples face as they age.They discuss why so many women feel broken or ashamed when intimacy changes, why couples rarely talk openly about it, and how hormonal shifts, cultural messaging, and outdated definitions of sex create disconnection.Dr. Sophocles shares three essential steps to closing the gap:• Know thyself — understanding your body, hormones, and pleasure• Communicate — removing shame and learning to talk honestly about sex• Redefine sex — shifting from performance and obligation to connection and pleasureYou will also hear about:• How perimenopause and menopause impact desire and comfort• Why pain during sex often leads to avoidance and fear• How shame silently fuels disconnection• Why redefining sex beyond penetration changes everything• The difference between obligation-based sex and connection-based intimacy• How couples can rebuild trust after long periods of distanceThis episode is especially helpful if:• Intimacy feels tense, painful, or avoided• One partner feels rejected while the other feels pressured• Hormonal changes have shifted desire• You miss feeling close but do not know how to start again• Shame makes it hard to talk about sexThis is an honest, hopeful conversation about sexual health, emotional safety, and rediscovering pleasure in long-term relationships.Dr. Sophocles links below: The Bedroom Gap: Rewrite the Rules and Roles of Sex in Midlifehttps://mariasophoclesmd.com/Learn More About Relationship RenovationOrder Relationship Renovation at Home Manual from AmazonJoin Our Patreon CommunitySupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/he-said-she-said/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands

What could reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke, lower inflammation, and make you less susceptible to depression? The answer, says nutritionist Emma Bardwell, is fibre.Emma's back on the show by popular demand to explain why hitting 30 grams a day could transform everything from weight loss and mood to digestion and glowing skin – and the simple hacks that make it easy to hit that target. In this episode:Why fibre needs better PR (and why protein hogged the limelight in 2025)The difference between soluble and insoluble fibre – and why you need bothFibre heroes: raspberries, cannellini beans, cacao powder and ground almondsHow to go from 16g to 30g without eating mountains of vegetablesThe microdosing approach: starting with one teaspoon of beans to avoid bloatingWhy fermented foods and kefir are game-changers for your gut microbiomeThe Bristol Stool Chart and poophoria (yes, really)How fibre supports weight loss, hormone balance, and even clears microplasticsWhy your digestion slows in perimenopause – and what to do about itEmma's tips for cooking tempehThe timeline: what happens to your body within hours, days, and weeks of increasing fibreMore from Liz:Preorder Liz's new book – How to AgeA Better Second Half Follow Liz on InstagramFollow Liz Earle Wellbeing on InstagramMore from Emma:The Fibre EffectThe 30 Gram Plan Follow Emma on Instagram Get in touch with a question for Liz:Email: podcast@lizearlewellbeing.comWhatsApp: 07518 471 846Some links may be affiliate links, which help support the show at no extra cost to you. Read our Affiliate Policy for more information. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Drop us a line or two . . .In this episode, Queenie & TT do what midlife women everywhere are doing right now: trying to hold it together when winter, responsibility, and the state of the world are doing the most to break us. There's frigid weather, indoor soccer in inflatable buildings, sports stress, and the honest truth that sometimes the best mental health plan is: go outside once… and then refuse to leave the house again.  They share what they're consuming today (pink lemonade live rosin gummies and a Space Cake pre-roll), talk about the strange “nap trap” that hits after a big breakfast, and discuss why sativa days are sometimes a medical necessity for functioning humans.  Then the episode turns into a surprisingly juicy mix of:why AI tools like Suno are still creative tools (just like nobody grinds their own paint anymore)  the ongoing Canadian citizenship saga (passport renewal + trying to lure family north like it's a Zillow listing with better healthcare)  a big moment of good news: New York's Medical Aid in Dying bill being signed, and why having the option matters  a fresh round of “Was Cannabis Involved or Is This Just Kaka?” featuring: honey wedding favors gone wrong and the DEA embarrassing itself with an emoji “drug decoder” that absolutely deserves public mocking  And the Fuck-It List entry this week is pure midlife enlightenment:

We live in a culture that rewards certainty.  In this episode, I reflect on the energy surrounding recent public controversies and ask a different question: what if moral outrage is sometimes a nervous system strategy rather than moral clarity?  Drawing on anxiety physiology, childhood conditioning, and midlife change, I explore how certainty can feel like safety, and why building capacity for uncertainty might be the real work as we step into midlife.  Join the waitlist for BECOMING

Do you find yourself feeling disconnected even when you're busy and surrounded by people?  If you've ever felt that ache of invisible loneliness, this episode is for you. We unpack why loneliness can sneak into midlife—especially as hormones shift—and name the quiet grief many women feel but rarely talk about. This conversation is about reminding your nervous system that you're not doing life alone, and that relationships, community, and meaningful time with friends can make all the difference.  And because loneliness feels like it hits so much harder these days, I'll share some simple, practical tools to help you reconnect and feel more supported.  Plus, I'll tell you all about my 7-day jumpstart designed to help you feel grounded, connected, and more like yourself again.  Tune in here!  IN THIS EPISODE Recognizing the feelings of loneliness in midlife  Why perimenopause can bring a sense of loneliness for women  Why so many women push through their feelings in midlife  The benefits of quality relationships and a sense of community Basic strategies to combat feelings of loneliness  How to build community in my 7-day jumpstart program  QUOTES “Loneliness can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, dementia, anxiety, depression, and yes, more severe perimenopausal symptoms.” “It's disconnection layered on top of hormonal vulnerability. That's why this time really is a zone of vulnerability.” “We're gonna be talking about nervous system regulation and gut health. Really diving into the things that get you feeling the way that you wanna feel again, but more importantly, we're gonna talk about how to stay connected to yourself and to other women while you're in the middle of it.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Join my 7- Day Metabolism and Hormone Jumpstart https://go.drmariza.com/lp/metabolism-jumpstart/ Order my latest book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ RELATED EPISODES 717: “I Don't Feel Like Myself Anymore”: The Mental & Emotional Reality of Perimenopause 712: WHY LIFESTYLE MEDICINE IS MITOCHONDRIAL MEDICINE (AND WHAT THAT MEANS FOR YOUR ENERGY, METABOLISM & LONGEVITY) 710: KICKSTART YOUR NEW YEAR: HOW ONE SIMPLE HABIT CAN TRANSFORM YOUR LIFE, HEALTH, AND MINDSET 704: HORMONE INTELLIGENCE FOR WOMEN IN MIDLIFE: HOW TO THRIVE THROUGH PERIMENOPAUSE WITH DR. AVIVA ROMM 575: Transform Your Life Through Self Love, Trusting Your Heart and Raising Your Self Worth with Roxy Saffaie

What do you do when you want to drink again—not because you're “back at zero,” but because midlife (and menopause) is hitting hard? I'm talking with Dana Bowman, author of Humble Pie, about the messy truth of long-term recovery colliding with midlife—think perimenopause, parenting teens, sleep disruption, body changes, and the quiet pressure to keep performing like nothing's happening. Dana and I have both lived the “I quit… then went back… then quit again” reality, and we're naming what so many women experience but rarely say out loud: Life gets better without alcohol—and life still gets lifey. For the full show notes, kindly go to this podcast episode link: https://hellosomedaycoaching.com/when-sobriety-gets-hard-again-adulting-menopause-and-midlife/ 4 Ways I Can Support You In Drinking Less + Living More Join The Sobriety Starter Kit, the only sober coaching course designed specifically for busy women. My proven, step-by-step sober coaching program will teach you exactly how to stop drinking  — and how to make it the best decision of your life. Save your seat in my FREE MASTERCLASS, 5 Secrets To Successfully Take a Break From Drinking  Grab the Free 30-Day Guide To Quitting Drinking, 30 Tips For Your First Month Alcohol-Free. Connect with me for free sober coaching tips, updates + videos on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest and TikTok @hellosomedaysober. Love The Podcast and Want To Say Thanks? ☕ Buy me a coffee! In the true spirit of Seattle, coffee is my love language. So if you want to support the hours that go into creating this show each week, click this link to buy me a coffee and I'll run to the nearest Starbucks + lift a Venti Almond Milk Latte and toast to you! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/hellosomeday 

In this episode, Suzy reflects on what a recent Costa Rica retreat revealed about slowing down, presence, and the importance of awe and wonder in midlife. Many midlife women are highly capable, productive, and constantly managing full lives, yet feel restless, rushed, and disconnected. This conversation explores why awe doesn't arrive through effort or productivity, but through attention and noticing. Learn more: https://suzyrosenstein.com/podcast/ep-446-awe-wonder-and-the-joy-of-life-in-the-slow-lane-in-midlife/

If you're a driven, capable professional facing a major life or career transition, chances are you're not held back by fear, but by subtle traps that keep you circling the same questions for years. This episode uncovers why your usual tools for problem-solving may actually be keeping you stuck.Listen now to uncover the three most common traps that keep high-functioning professionals stuck in midlife transitions, and how to move beyond them with clarity and purpose.˚Coaching with Agi: https://personaldevelopmentmasterypodcast.com/mentor˚Support the showCareer transition and career clarity podcast content for midlife professionals in career transition, navigating a career change, career pivot or second career, starting a new venture or leaving a long-term career. Discover practical tools for career clarity, confident decision-making, rebuilding self belief and confidence, finding purpose and meaning in work, designing a purposeful, fulfilling next chapter, and creating meaningful work that fits who you are now. Episodes explore personal development and mindset for midlife professionals, including how to manage uncertainty and pressure, overcome fear and self-doubt, clarify your direction, plan your next steps, and turn your experience into a new role, business or vocation that feels aligned. To support the show, click here.

Do you feel like the gap between you and your partner's sexual desire is widening?Has managing a home, raising kids, and building a career left you feeling disconnected from your body and from sexual pleasure?You are not broken. And you are not alone.In this powerful episode, I'm joined by Dr. Maria Sophocles, board-certified OB/GYN, founder of Women's Healthcare of Princeton, nationally recognized menopause expert, and author of The Bedroom Gap. With over 1.2 million views on her viral TED Talk, “What Happens to Sex in Midlife,” Dr. Sophocles is leading the conversation on female sexual health, perimenopause, and closing the intimacy gap in long-term and short-term relationships.Together, we pull back the curtain on sexual health, menopause wellness, hormone therapy, vaginal health, and the cultural silence that has left so many women believing they've simply “outgrown” desire. You haven't. Midlife intimacy is possible when you understand what your body actually needs.When you realize that menopause wellness is about restoring what your body is missing (not pushing through discomfort), you can release the guilt and choose real support.In this episode, we explore:Vaginal health and vaginal estrogen: how targeted treatments restore comfort, and support long and short-term relationship intimacyThe truth about perimenopause and heart health and how estrogen therapy may help in early menopauseWhy Viagra widened the “bedroom gap” and what couples can do about itBioidentical hormone therapy and menopause relief: what's evidence-based, what's marketing, and what actually works3 practical ways to reduce painful intercourseSexual dysfunction in women: causes, solutions, and when to seek supportWhat current science says about hormone therapy so you can make informed decisionsThe connection between intimacy, longevity, and overall post menopausal healthYou were never meant to outgrow sexual desire, you were taught to deprioritize it.Your physical comfort matters. Your pleasure matters. And this next chapter of life can include confidence, connection, and vibrant intimacy.If you're navigating perimenopause, menopause, low libido, painful sex, or relationship disconnection, this conversation will give you clarity, science-backed guidance, and hope.Tune in to reclaim your anatomy, close the bedroom gap, and embrace midlife with confidence and heart.Much love,LaurieClick here to listen to Dr. Maria Sophocles first podcast interveiwClick here to learn about my NEW “Nervous System Regulation Starter Kit” Click here to purchase my book: Sandwiched: A Memoir of Holding On and Letting GoFree ResourcesClick here to schedule a FREE inquiry call with me.Click here for my FREE “Beginner's Guide to Somatic Healing”Click here for my FREE Core Values ExercisePlease leave me feedback. I cannot respond so if you'd like me to respond, please leave your email***********************DISCLAIMER: THE COMMENTARY AND OPINIONS AVAILABLE ON THIS PODCAST ARE FOR INFORMATIONAL AND ENTERTAINMENT PURPOSES ONLY AND NOT FOR THE PURPOSE OF PROVIDING LEGAL, MEDICAL OR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED THERAPIST IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING SUICIDAL THOUGHTS. YOU SHOULD CONTACT AN ATTORNEY IN YOUR STATE TO OBTAIN LEGAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD CONTACT A LICENSED MEDICAL PROFESSIONAL WITH RESPECT TO ANY MEDICAL ISSUE OR PROBLEM.

Perimenopause is not just about hormones, it's a metabolic transition that affects insulin sensitivity, gut health, stress tolerance, and long-term disease risk.In this episode, Cynthia Thurlow, board-certified nurse practitioner and functional medicine expert, explains how women's metabolism changes in midlife and why insulin resistance, poor stress resilience, and gut dysfunction often appear years before menopause.She breaks down how perimenopause can begin earlier than most women expect, why symptoms vary so widely, and how lifestyle factors like fasting, exercise intensity, sleep, alcohol, and chronic stress interact with hormones during this transition.Join the most comprehensive *female-specific community for health and longevity optimization.* After over a decade dedicated to human performance and women's health, I created this space to share everything you need to know to optimize health and lifespan. Inside, you'll get access to exclusive protocols, live Q&As, the latest female longevity science, and a private, supportive community of like-minded women.https://kayla-barnes-lentz.circle.so/checkout/become-a-memberThis conversation explores:Why insulin resistance often emerges in perimenopauseHow stress and trauma shape metabolic and hormonal healthThe role of gut health in PMS, mood, and estrogen balanceWhen fasting helps women and when it makes things worseWhy “doing everything right” can still lead to symptomsHow to individualize nutrition, training, and recovery in midlifeConnect with Kayla:Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/kaylabarnes/TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@femalelongevityTwitter:https://x.com/femalelongevityWebsite:https://www.kaylabarnes.com/YouTube: www.youtube.com/@KaylaBarnesLentzApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...Website:https://www.protocol.kaylabarnes.comLearn more about Cynthia ThurlowInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/cynthia_thurlow_/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/cynthiathurlowWebsite: https://www.cynthiathurlow.com/Pre-order her upcoming book: The Menopause Gut (28th of April 2026):https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/777129/the-menopause-gut-by-cynthia-thurlow-np/?mcp…ACE (Adverse Childhood Experiences) questionnaire:https://www.acesaware.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/07/ACE-Questionnaire-for-Adults-Identified-English-rev.7.26.22.pdf

In this episode of The Coach Debbie Potts Show, I sit down with Dr. John Osborne, cardiologist and founder of ClearCardio, to uncover what most people—and even many physicians—are missing when it comes to heart disease risk. We dive into why cardiovascular disease often progresses silently, especially in fit, high-performing adults who "do everything right." You'll learn why traditional markers like total cholesterol and LDL often fail to tell the full story—and how advanced imaging and deeper biomarkers can reveal risk years (or decades) earlier. This conversation is especially important for: • Endurance athletes • Midlife high performers • Men and women navigating hormonal shifts • Anyone with a family history of heart disease • Those frustrated by "your labs look fine" answers In this episode, we cover: • Why heart disease is often missed until it's too late • The difference between cholesterol numbers and plaque burden • What a coronary calcium scan actually shows—and who should consider one • How chronic stress, inflammation, hormones, and metabolic dysfunction impact the heart • Why fitness does NOT automatically equal cardiovascular protection • The role of insulin resistance, visceral fat, and vascular inflammation • How early detection changes outcomes—and saves lives We also connect the dots between metabolic health, nervous system regulation, inflammation, and cardiovascular resilience, aligning perfectly with The FLOW Foundation™ and The FutureYou Blueprint™ philosophy:

Decreased sexual desire is the most common concern I hear about changing sexuality during perimenopause and menopause. In this video, I discuss how we diagnose low libido, what may be contributing to it, and the treatment options that can genuinely help. You may hear the term Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder (HSDD). This is a medical diagnosis used when a persistent drop in desire creates distress for a woman or strain within a relationship. Evaluation involves a thoughtful clinical conversation, review of health history, and often the use of a validated tool such as the Decreased Sexual Desire Screener (DSDS). The reasons desire changes are rarely simple. They often include a combination of: ✔️ hormonal shifts involving estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone ✔️ changes in brain chemistry and stress pathways ✔️ sleep and energy disruption ✔️ relationship or emotional dynamics ✔️ medical conditions or medication effects I walk you through five categories of treatment, combining published science with what I've learned from caring for thousands of midlife women — including which approaches tend to work best in real life. Most importantly, low desire is not something you are required to accept as an unavoidable part of aging. If it matters to you, there are meaningful, evidence-based ways to make it better.

Welcome to Perimenopause WTF!, brought to you by ⁠Perry⁠—the #1 perimenopause app and education space. The Perry Academy was created for

What if birth control didn't come with daily hormones, side effects, or shame — and instead supported pleasure, autonomy, and confidence? This week Lisa welcomes Saundra Pelletier, CEO of Evofem Biosciences and the force behind Phexxi, the first hormone-free, on-demand prescription birth control. Together they explore the intersection of sexual health, empowerment, midlife identity, and why women deserve both protection and pleasure. This conversation moves beyond fear-based messaging into joy, agency, and informed choice — especially for women navigating perimenopause, postpartum years, or simply wanting an alternative to long-term synthetic hormones. What We Talk About Why traditional hormonal birth control may impact libido, mood, and identity The concept of a “Hormone Holiday” Perimenopause + still needing pregnancy protection Why women are conditioned to live with discomfort Teaching sons empathy and body literacy Pleasure as a revolutionary act Empowerment vs. fear-based sexual health messaging Reclaiming desire and confidence after 40 Key Takeaways You deserve options that align with your body and your life stage. Birth control does not need to equal daily medication. Sexual pleasure is not shameful — it is information, agency, and identity. Men want language and permission to participate in these conversations. Midlife is not the end of sexuality — it can be the beginning of intentional sexuality. Guest: Saundra Pelletier CEO of Evofem Biosciences, advocate for women's reproductive health, and mission-driven leader bringing hormone-free contraceptive options into mainstream conversation. Connect with Saundra: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saundra-pelletier/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saundrapelletier/, https://www.instagram.com/phexxi/ Website: sayvaginastore.com Let's Stay Connected – Website: https://liberatedmenopause.ca Instagram: @lboate Facebook: Liberated Menopause Facebook Group: Liberated Menopause Community Email: lisa@liberatedmenopause.ca Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Midlife and menopause can bring real physical and psychological changes that affect libido, arousal, and pleasure—but that doesn't mean desire or a satisfying sex life are destined to disappear. This week we sat down with registered nurse and Permission for Pleasure author Cindy Scharkey to unpack what actually happens to desire, arousal, pleasure, and our bodies as we move through perimenopause, menopause, and beyond. We explore why so many women stop wanting sex in midlife, how hormones, stress, body image, and long-term relationships play a role, and why waiting to be “in the mood” often doesn't work anymore (and more importantly, what does).Cindy Scharkey, RN, BSN, PHN, is a healthcare professional with almost 4 decades of experience. Throughout her career as a Certified Childbirth Educator, OB/GYN nurse and speaker, she has been consistently exposed to the taboos and silence surrounding women's sexuality. Cindy is passionate about providing women with the content and self-confidence they need to find freedom on their own sexual wellness journey. As the author of Permission for Pleasure: Tending Your Sexual Garden, and Host of the Permission for Pleasure podcast, Cindy offers education and conversations about expressing, experiencing and enjoying your sexuality. You can learn more about her, her book, and her work at www.cindyscharkey.comSign up for our FREE Feisty 40+ newsletter: https://feisty.co/feisty-40/Feisty Strong Retreat, April 17-19, 2026 - Atlanta https://feisty.co/events/feisty-strong-retreat-atlanta/Learn More about our 2026 Feisty Events, including Bike Camps and Cycling Trips: https://feisty.co/events/Follow Us on Instagram:Feisty Menopause: @feistymenopauseHit Play Not Pause Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/807943973376099Support our Partners:Midi Health: You Deserve to Feel Great. Book your virtual visit today at https://www.joinmidi.com/Hettas: Use code STAYFEISTY for 20% off at https://hettas.com/ Previnex: Get 15% off your first order with code HITPLAY at https://www.previnex.com/ Wahoo: Use the code FEISTY2026 to get a free Headwind Smart Fan (value $300) with the purchase of a Wahoo KICKR RUN at https://shorturl.at/WVhdr

What if thinking about death wasn't morbid—but liberating? In this conversation, Elena Brower (author of "Hold Nothing") and I get real about turning 40, 50, and beyond. We talk about why ego dissolution might be the greatest gift of aging, how meditation is actually an act of service to others, and why certainty is killing your relationships. Elena shares why she's ready to let all her accomplishments dissolve, the difference between prayer and meditation (spoiler: maybe there isn't one), and a simple exhale practice that serves humanity. This isn't your typical "graceful aging" conversation. It's about ruthlessly re-prioritizing, slowing down radically, and preparing for death in the most relaxed way possible. In this episode: Why "I'm half-dead" is the most freeing thought you can have The invisible gift your meditation practice gives everyone around you How sitting still helps your kids solve their own problems Why knowing everything makes you terrible company A breathing practice you can do right now to serve humanity

265 | Phantom Smells, Thinning Hair, and Palm Beach Rules: The Midlife Truths You Need to Know Have you ever smelled cigarette smoke when no one is lighting up? Or wondered why your favorite 70-year-old socialite looks exactly like a 40-year-old? In this "Post-Ice Edition" of the Life Coach BFF Show, Heather Pettey and Dr. Carol Lynn are back to catch you up on everything you missed while hunkered down in the winter storms. From the strange "phantom smells" of menopause to the strict fashion rules of Palm Beach high society, this episode is a whirlwind of laughter, medical insights, and midlife realizations. Whether you're navigating a "choke and poke" (the medical term will surprise you!), setting boundaries, or realizing that menopause actually happens to everyone, this episode is the ultimate catch-up with your best friends. In this episode, we discuss: The "Name Game": The professional and personal hurdles of changing names after marriage and remarriage. Strange Menopause Symptoms: Why phantom smells (like cigarette smoke or worse) happen during hormonal shifts and post-COVID. Palm Beach Etiquette: What the show Palm Royale (and real-life society) teaches us about boobs, knees, and "Old Palm Beach." Life-Changing Shifts: Real feedback from our community on how divorce, pellets, retirement, and saying "no" improved their lives. Expectation Management: The freedom that comes with releasing expectations of others.   Resources Mentioned in This Episode: Join the Community: Our Midlife Moxie Private Facebook Group TV Shows: Members Only: Palm Beach (Netflix discussion), Schitt's Creek, and Mad Men. Health: Discussion on Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and Pellets. Snag your My Midlife Moxie Journal   Digital Version My Midlife Moxie Journal   Sign Up and Get the latest MOXIE news!   Join The Facebook Group: @ourmidlifemoxie   Connect with Host Heather Pettey: Email: hpetteyoffice@gmail.com Private Coaching with Heather:https://www.ourmidlifemoxie.com/heatherpetteycoaching Speaker Request Here Instagram @HeatherPettey_ Facebook: @HeatherPettey1 Linkedin: @HeatherPettey Book: "Keep It Simple, Sarah" (Amazon bestseller) Connect with Host Dr. Carol Lynn: Linkedin Website: https://www.drcarollynn.com Facebook Group: @ourmidlifemoxie Website: www.ourmidlifemoxie.com Don't forget to subscribe to the Life Coach BFF Show for more inspiring content and practical life advice!   Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. Always consult your own physician for personal medical advice.

Dr. Hoffman continues his conversation with cognitive neuroscientist Dr. Therese Huston, author of “Sharp: 14 Simple Ways to Improve Your Life with Brain Science.” 

Optimizing Brain Function at Midlife with cognitive neuroscientist Dr. Therese Huston. She details practical ways to harness brain science for improved functioning, especially for women at midlife. They discuss strategies from Dr. Huston's book, “Sharp: 14 Simple Ways to Improve Your Life with Brain Science,” addressing topics such as exercise, diet, sleep, humor, meditation, and innovative techniques like binaural beats and fixation-focused training. The conversation also emphasizes the unique challenges faced by women aged 40-60 and offers scientifically-backed methods to enhance cognitive performance and manage stress effectively.

We've been wired to…..“Keep going and Push through sis.”STOP.Our wellness is not gonna come from doing more…it will come from Being STILL.In this episode, I discuss the importance of stillness for black women in midlife. I share my personal journey of learning to embrace stillness, the challenges faced, and practical tips for incorporating stillness into daily life. We can give ourselves permission to be still to unlock clarity and power in these midlife streets. Topics covered:00:00 The Power of Stillness11:25 Practicing Stillness in Daily LifeKey Takeaways:“Your power in this season is not in doing more, it's in being still.”“Stillness is necessary for clarity and purpose.”“Practicing stillness can unlock your true self.”“Embrace the process of self-discovery through stillness.”#BeStill #MenopauseWellness #Innerwork #Resilience #SelfAwareness #Gratitude #Menopause #Midlife #PrioritizeYOU #Caregiving #SelfAdvocacy #MenopauseMoguls #hotflashes #Changeyourresponse  #Perimenopause #BusinessEmpowerment  #OvercomingChallenges #WomenEmpowerment  #blackwomeninbusiness #wellnesscoaching #businesscoaching  #entrepreneurship #womenentrepreneurs #midlifeblackwomen #over40women #over50womenPlease Leave a 5-star Review  & Share!!And don't forget to SUBSCRIBE so you can catch the next episode! 

Do you have friends you can disappear from for months and return to without guilt, explanation, or effort? The ones who don't keep score, don't require performance, and still feel like home when you reconnect?In this episode, Leah Davidson explores how women's friendships change in midlife and why connection becomes not just important, but essential. Drawing from decades-long friendships, life transitions, and nervous system science, Leah unpacks why the friendship rules that worked in our twenties and thirties often stop working later on, and why that's not a failure, but a natural evolution.You'll learn how different seasons of life call for different kinds of friendships, why capacity matters more than consistency, and how safety, not frequency, is the foundation of lasting connection. This episode is a powerful reminder that women don't heal alone. We regulate together, remember ourselves together, and in midlife especially, we need each other.We'll explore:Midlife friendships operate by different rules than earlier seasons of lifeSafety, not frequency, is what allows friendships to last over timeCapacity changes across seasons, and that doesn't mean commitment is lackingLow-pressure friendships support nervous system regulation, not depletionSeasonal friendships can be deeply meaningful without needing to last foreverWomen are biologically wired to seek connection during stress, not isolationJoy and connection require intention in midlife, not waiting for life to slow downWomen heal, regulate, and remember who they are through safe relationshipsLINKS AND RESOURCES:COMMUNITYMIDLIFE NERVOUS SYSTEM REWIRE COMMUNITY

In this final episode of The Becoming Years series, the conversation reframes midlife as an identity shift and powerful invitation rather than a breakdown. Dr. Anna Marie explores loneliness among high-achieving women, the impact of nervous system burnout, and how changing bodies and roles call for new ways of living. Listeners are encouraged to prioritize self-care, deepen relationships through honest conversations, and courageously pursue what they truly desire in the second half of life. Practical reflection tools—like the "seven whys" exercise—are shared to help uncover deeper needs and design a more aligned, energizing future.   Key Points Midlife is an identity shift, not a breakdown You are not behind; you are becoming Loneliness is common for high-achieving women after 40 Career, parenting, and success can quietly erode connections Exhaustion often comes from nervous system burnout, not weakness Invisible labor and hormonal shifts add to midlife fatigue Regulating the nervous system is vital for healthy relationships Partners benefit from syncing and co-regulating together Honest conversations about needs reduce the urge to "fix" each other Self-care: eat well, move your body, protect your energy Remove activities and relationships that drain you Focus on what fills you up and brings genuine joy Forgive yourself for relationships that have run their course Midlife is a chance to reinvent friendships and lifestyle Try small changes: new routes, classes, trips, experiences Be bold and stop living by others' expectations You can choose a different path for the second half of life Feeling empty or ungrateful after success is common, not wrong Deeper conversations about "taboo" feelings are essential Use the "seven whys" exercise to find root causes of feelings Share this series with someone who might need this message Listeners are invited to leave a review and reflect on what they truly want Connect with Dr. Anna Marie: Email: annamarie@happywholeyou.com / info@HappyWholeYou.com Website: www.happywholeyou.com / https://linktr.ee/happywholeyou Personal Website: www.DrAnnaMarie.com Instagram: @happywholeyou Personal Instagram: @Dr.Anna.Marie Facebook: Happy Whole You LinkedIn: Anna Marie Frank Venmo: @happywholeyou  

119. Microdosing for Midlife: Brain Science of Change (Week 2)Week 2 of Microdosing for Midlife explores estrogen, menopause, hormone therapy, and cognitive health—plus how psilocybin supports neuroplasticity.Episode SummaryThis episode marks Week 2 of Microdosing for Midlife, a 12-week audio series exploring how psilocybin microdosing for women intersects with hormonal change, emotional regulation, and cognitive resilience during midlife.In this installment, April Pride expands on a central question that surfaced after Week 1: whether being “spared” classic menopausal symptoms—or choosing not to take hormone replacement therapy—puts women at greater risk for cognitive decline. Drawing from current research, April reframes the fear-driven narrative around menopause, estrogen, and dementia, offering a more nuanced and reassuring understanding of what actually shapes long-term brain health.The episode also explores estrogen's role as a neuroprotectant, how the midlife brain becomes more vulnerable to stress-based patterning, and why psychedelics like psilocybin may support neuroplasticity by softening rigid survival scripts. Through personal reflection and lived experience, April illustrates how subtle shifts in perception—not emotional erasure—can change one's relationship to anxiety, grief, and uncertainty.This episode functions as an audio companion to the written Week 2 essay, adding scientific context, integration insights, and real-life application without replacing the original post.

What if the most important love story you nurture this Valentine's Week isn't with a partner, but with yourself? In this conversation on Pleasure in the Pause, host Gabriella Espinosa sits down with Amy St. Germain, founder of Oboo, a pleasure-forward wellness brand creating tools designed specifically for midlife bodies. This episode is a shame-free exploration of self-pleasure as self-care, the health benefits of vibrators for midlife women, and why desire doesn't disappear as our bodies change. Whether you're navigating dryness, decreased sensitivity, or simply want to reclaim pleasure on your own terms, this conversation reminds you that your body is amazing at every age.Amy St. Germain is the founder of Oboo, a pleasure-forward wellness brand creating tools and products designed for midlife bodies. What started as her own wake-up call turned into a mission to make intimacy, desire, and self-pleasure feel accessible, practical, and shame-free. Through Oboo's thoughtfully designed products and open, honest conversations, Amy helps women feel more at home in their bodies, laugh a little more about the changes of midlife, and stay open to trying something new. Her approach blends curiosity, humor, and real-life usefulness. Her favorite reminder: desire doesn't disappear in midlife. It just needs better lighting, better language, and better tools.Highlights from our discussion include:50% of women over 50 stop having sex or being intimate altogether, but we have at least 30 more years to enjoy pleasure.Vibrators aren't just for pleasure. They improve blood flow, reduce dryness, support pelvic floor health, and can even reduce hot flashes.The "Pleasure Reset" is five minutes of pressure-free self-pleasure with no goal, no performance, just reconnection with your body.Better lighting, better language, and better tools are what desire needs in midlife, not fixing something that's broken.Pregaming (warming yourself up before partner intimacy) takes the pressure off and allows you to arrive ready and connected.Using lubricant makes everything feel better, even if you don't think you need it. Comfort first, then move to the next steps.Connect with Amy St. Germain:WebsiteInstagramResources Mentioned:Blog - The Pleasure Reset (5-minute pressure-free self-pleasure practice)Kinsey Institute research on self-pleasure and symptom reliefEp 80 Good VibesEp 64 Communicating with a Partner about PleasureCONNECT WITH GABRIELLA ESPINOSA:InstagramLinkedIn Celebrate Valentine's Week with the Oooh Palm Massager giveaway from OBO, created for midlife bodies. Leave a review for Pleasure in the Pause, screenshot it, and DM @gabriellaespinosa on Instagram to enter. Full episodes on YouTube. The information shared on Pleasure in the Pause is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any decisions about your health or treatment. The views expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the host or Pleasure in the Pause.

A lot changes during perimenopause and menopause, so how does your exercise program need to change to be optimized for this phase of your life? Once you know the answer to that question, you can move forward with confidence doing the highest leverage behavior to put more years lived in good health into your future.email me: healthcouragecollective@gmail.comwork with me: https://www.healthcouragecollective.com/services-9377Are you ready to give your cells their best chance to not have to stop living before they die by allowing them access to physiologic levels of hormones, but aren't sure how to even get started?  Join the waitlist for my new beta program here and help me figure out how best to help wonderful women like you get the hormone care they deserve!Join the Waitlist HereCome visit me: www.healthcouragecollective.comemail me: healthcouragecollective@gmail.com

Midlife isn't halfway to death. It's when you stop pretending. Your energy shifts. Your body changes. Your parents start aging. Your kids need you differently. The things that once felt like a huge deal… just aren't. Caring for aging parents changes you. Perspective shows up whether you asked for it or not.Tune in for new Cat & Nat Unfiltered episodes every Monday, Tuesday and Friday!Follow @catandnatunfiltered on Instagram: https://instagram.com/catandnatunfilteredCome see us LIVE on tour!! To see a full list of cities and dates, go to https://catandnattour.com.Are you a parent that is struggling understanding the online world, setting healthy screen-time limits, or navigating harmful online content? Purchase screen sense for $24.99 & unlock Cat & Nat's ultimate guide to parenting in the digital age. Go to https://www.thecommonparent.com/screen-sense-complete-guideFollow our parenting platform - The Common Parent - over on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thecommonparentMake sure you subscribe to our YouTube channel: https://bitly.com/catnatyoutubeGet personalized videos from us on Cameo: https://cameo.com/catandnatCome hang with us over on https://instagram.com/catandnat all day long.And follow us on https://tiktok.com/@catandnatofficial! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Your CANCER Diagnosis Isn't Your Fault (And Why That Matters): A Stage 4 Cancer Survivor's Truth About Energy and Healing with Maria Kang  What if everything you think you know about cancer and healing is actually backwards? Maria Kang has lived a life that defies conventional narratives. She's the "No Excuses Mom" who challenged the fitness industry…and then she got stage 4 cancer while doing everything "right." But instead of following the standard playbook, she made a choice that shocked everyone around her and in that, discovered that cancer wasn't her enemy - it was her greatest teacher. This is not your typical cancer survival story. In this conversation, Maria walks us through her journey from the moment of diagnosis through the stunning realization that cancer, autoimmune disease, and chronic illness emerge from an energetic state of chronic self-betrayal. She shares why she resisted chemotherapy, what happened when the tumor shrank after gratitude practice, why cancer returned, and what truly shifted when she finally surrendered. More importantly, she reveals what this teaches every woman about people-pleasing, boundaries, inner authority, and the cost of abandoning yourself. Whether or not you're facing a cancer diagnosis, this episode will change how you listen to your body. Maria's recent book, Sacred Becoming, documents her full transformation. And what Natalie discovered while reading it is that this isn't just a cancer story, it's a blueprint for remembering who you actually are underneath all the conditioning. Midlife women are in a health crisis not just about food or fitness. It's about chronic disconnection from your own inner knowing. It's about people-pleasing patterns that literally make your body sick. It's about forgotten boundaries and abandoned dreams. Maria's story shows what happens when those patterns escalate to cancer. And more importantly, it shows what becomes possible when you finally listen to your body and remember who you actually are.   Episode Links:  Maria's new book: Sacred Becoming https://www.sacredbecomingbooks.com/products/sacred-becoming-book Past Episode - 401: The GIFT of Cancer with Maria Kang https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/401-the-gift-of-cancer-with-maria-kang/id1436973433?i=1000673961700    Catch the full episode on YOUTUBE HERE: https://bit.ly/MidlifeConversationsYouTube    Learn More About Maria Kang Instagram ➜ https://www.instagram.com/mariakangfitness  Website ➜  https://www.mariakang.com/  Book ➜  https://www.sacredbecomingbooks.com/products/sacred-becoming-book  Thank you to our show sponsors! QUANTUM UPGRADE: Try Quantum Upgrade completely free for 15 days—no credit card required. Use code NATALIEJILL at checkout on https://quantumupgrade.io/ TIMELINE:  Timeline is offering 20% off your order of Mitopure! Go to https://timeline.com/NATALIEJILL  Free Gifts for being a listener of Midlife Conversations! Mastering the Midlife Midsection Guide: https://theflatbellyguide.com/ Age Optimizing and Supplement Guide: https://ageoptimizer.com   Connect with me on social media! Instagram: www.Instagram.com/Nataliejllfit Facebook: www.Facebook.com/Nataliejillfit   For advertising inquiries: https://www.category3.ca/  Disclaimer: Information provided in the Midlife Conversations podcast is for informational purposes only. This information is NOT intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. Do not use the information provided in this podcast for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before making any changes to your current regimen.  Information provided in this podcast and the use of any products or services related to this podcast does not create a client-patient relationship between you and the host of Midlife Conversations or you and any doctor or provider interviewed and featured on this show. Information and statements may have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent ANY disease. Advertising Disclosure: Some episodes of Midlife Conversations may be sponsored by products or services discussed during the show. The host may receive compensation for such advertisements or if you purchase products through affiliate links. Opinions expressed about products or services are those of the host and/or guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of any sponsor. Sponsorship does not imply endorsement of any product or service by healthcare professionals featured on this podcast.

If you've ever felt like you have one foot on the gas and one foot on the brake when it comes to money, this episode will help you understand why.In part two of this conversation with Audrey Faust, The Manifesting CFO™, Shelly and Audrey get practical about money blocks — the subconscious beliefs formed early in life that quietly influence confidence, decision-making, and financial behavior in midlife.They explore how generational patterns, faith-based messaging, and emotional wiring shape our relationship with money, and share simple tools to begin rewriting those beliefs with clarity and intention. Key Takeaways:What money blocks are and how they form in the subconsciousWhy early messages about money still affect us in midlifeHow to begin rewriting limiting beliefs using simple repetitionA grounded explanation of EFT tapping and how it calms the nervous systemOne practical step you can take this week to start shifting your money mindsetThis episode offers a simple, doable starting point for women who want to move from scarcity and stress toward confidence and peace with money.Connect with Audrey:Free Gift: Link: https://www.audreyfaustconsulting.com/3-steps FB - https://www.facebook.com/manifestingcfo/IG - https://www.instagram.com/manifesting_cfo/LI - https://www.linkedin.com/in/audreyfaust/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfY8RjyfArU1m14acmR3-Lw Resources:Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/shellyniehaus/Simple Shifts Newsletter: https://midlifemadesimplepodcast.com/tipsWomen Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://midlifemadesimplepodcast.com/prayer

Click to Text Thoughts on Today's EpisodeEver felt like you're too old to start over? Think again.In this powerful episode, Stefanie Gass, host of the Online Business for Christian Women Podcast, joins us to talk about something that might hit closer to home than you realize—even if business isn't your thing.Stefanie's story is raw and redemptive. From finance executive to top 1% network marketer, she had everything the world says should make you happy: the money, the recognition, the $50,000 bonus checks. But after walking off stage in front of 20,000 people at the peak of her success, she felt... nothing. Just emptiness.What happened next changed everything. Stefanie finally cried out to God—really cried out—for the first time in decades. And the Holy Spirit began writing a prophetic plan for her life.Main points discussed:- Career Transitions at Any Age - Building a Kingdom Business - Honoring Calling AND Capacity - How Biblical Order Creates Supernatural Time - The Power of Gratitude and Vision - Action Breaks Through FearLinksBiblical Order YouTube VideoUse code AMYCONNELL to receive Stefanie's 5-Day Bootcamp for freeConnect with Stefaniehttps://stefaniegass.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/StefanieGassMy latest recommended ways to nourish and move your body, mind and spirit: Nourished Notes Bi-Weekly Newsletter Be Strong and Vibrant! Online Strength Training Course for Christian Women in Perimenopause and Beyond 30+ Non-Gym Ways to Improve Your Health (free download)Connect with Amy: GracedHealth.com Instagram: @GracedHealthYouTube: @AmyConnell

Anxiety often feels like it comes out of nowhere in midlife—especially during perimenopause and after menopause. You're doing “all the right things,” yet your nervous system feels constantly on edge. Racing thoughts. Poor sleep. A sense that something isn't right… but you can't quite name it.In this episode of Asking for a Friend, I'm joined by Dr. Lori Davis, licensed psychologist, clinical instructor at Weill Cornell Medicine, and author of the upcoming workbook This Is Your Anxiety on Menopause. Together, we unpack why anxiety often intensifies in midlife—and what women can actually do about it.Dr. Davis shares both the science and the lived experience behind anxiety, explaining how hormonal shifts, nervous system changes, sleep disruption, perfectionism, and decades of “pushing through” collide in this season of life. We also talk about why anxiety may feel different now than it did earlier in life—and why you are not broken.In this conversation, we cover:Why anxiety often spikes during perimenopause and menopauseWhether menopause causes anxiety or unmasks an existing vulnerabilityThe role of hormones, cortisol, sleep, and the nervous systemWhy worry loops and nighttime anxiety are so commonEvidence-based tools to calm anxiety (including breathing, exposure, and cognitive strategies)When therapy or medication may be helpful—and when lifestyle alone isn't enoughHow to stop fighting anxiety and start working with your nervous systemThis episode is grounding, practical, and deeply validating for women navigating midlife changes. If you've ever thought, “Why am I suddenly anxious when nothing is technically wrong?”—this conversation will help you connect the dots.

Send a textIn this episode of Midlife with Courage™, host Kim speaks with Michelle Walters, a clinical hypnotherapist. Michelle shares her journey from digital marketing to hypnotherapy, the personal challenges she has faced, and how she now helps others overcome anxiety, trauma, and more. Key points include:- Michelle's career transition story- The impact of personal loss on her journey- How hypnotherapy works- Benefits of customized hypnosis tracks- Encouragement for midlife women00:00 Welcome to Midlife with Courage00:17 Meet Michelle Walters: From Digital Marketing to Hypnotherapy02:11 A Journey Through Personal Loss and Transformation02:46 Launching a Hypnotherapy Career and Writing Books03:07 Creating a Custom Hypnosis App16:03 A Deep Dive into Hypnotherapy19:06 The Power of Tools in Health19:22 Uncovering Subconscious Associations22:48 Empowering Women to Find Their Voice24:16 Addressing Anxiety and Confidence Issues27:33 The Hypnotherapy Process29:58 Virtual vs. In-Person Sessions30:55 Diverse Cases and Success Stories33:05 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationMichelle is offering Midlife with Courage™ listeners 25% off her MakeMyHypno app. Go to this LINK to use the code. Get in on the next Courage & Confidence Circle before it even opens. The waitlist for the March 2026 Courage & Confidence Circle is open so click the link below to let me know you are ready to grow your midlife confidence now! PUT ME ON THE WAITLIST!Support the showKim Benoy is a retired RN, Certified Aromatherapist, wife and mom who is passionate about inspiring and encouraging women over 40. She wants you to see your own beauty, value and worth through sharing stories of other women just like you. If this podcast inspires you and makes you think, “She's talking to me,” there's a place where these conversations continue. The Midlife with Courage™ community is the podcast—plus deeper connection, encouragement, and support for midlife women navigating confidence, change, and what's next. It's a safe, uplifting space to be inspired, share honestly, and grow alongside women who truly get this season of life. Midlife with Courage™ Community Are you looking for more? You should check out my Courage & Confidence Circle! Join a supportive group of other midlife women who are ready to live with courage and stop waiting for someday! This 3-month program starts again in March 2026 and I would love to see you there! REGISTER HERE Want to be a guest on Midlife with Courage™-Flourishing After Forty with Kim Benoy? Send Kim Benoy a message on PodMatch, here: Podmatch Link ...

In this episode, I'm talking with Marcella Hill about the stuff a lot of women are dealing with… but way too many of us are still whispering about: perimenopause, libido, mood, hormones, and what actually helps.Marcella shares her personal story—how low libido and mental health struggles became a wake-up call, and how hormone therapy ended up being a turning point. We get into the stigma (why women are taught to keep this quiet), what it looks like to find a provider who takes you seriously, and how social media can mess with your perception of your body and what “normal” is supposed to feel like.We also talk about the Balance docu-series and why education matters so much when it comes to hormone therapy—because the misinformation is loud, and it keeps women stuck.If you've ever thought, “Something feels off… but I don't know what to do next,” this episode is for you. Marcella's message is simple: trust your instincts, advocate for yourself, and don't put your well-being last.Follow Marcella on IG and TikTockhttps://www.instagram.com/beingmarcellahill/https://www.tiktok.com/@beingmarcellahillCheck out her website: https://wakeherup.co/And HRT provider database: https://wakeherup.co/directory/Listen to her podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wake-her-up/id1707723849

Today's episode is with Lori Atwood. Lori is a woman in the middle entrepreneur whose business, Fearless Finance, provides expert, fiduciary financial planning advice to people who traditionally felt left out of the "old school" financial planning industry, specifically women.In this episode, you will learn:How to be fearless about your finances in midlife and beyond.Why the key to your finances is your own happiness.The importance of making sure your mask is on before helping your child with her mask; prioritize your retirement over paying for college.Why spending less than you earn is the key to financial success.Connect with Lori at:https://fearlessfinance.com/https://www.instagram.com/fearlessfinance/https://www.facebook.com/fearlessfinancehttps://www.tiktok.com/@fearlessfinancehttps://www.linkedin.com/company/fearless-finance/Connect with Suzy:Take the New Midlife Quiz! Get unstuck and learn what your future self is craving so that you can take steps to regret-proof your life! Free! Only takes about 90 seconds. www.midlifequiz.comMidlife Happiness Jumpstart Experience: Enjoy a powerful experience of tiny joys and big shifts! Get ready for 14 Days of Happiness “Boosts,” which are tiny, science-backed actions delivered to your inbox daily, with a private WhatsApp group for connection and sharing together. Each happiness boost only takes approximately 5 - 10 minutes or less and builds your momentum for more of the same. Feel more grounded, present, and connected to more happiness now! Sign Up HereWomen in the Middle® Entrepreneurs: Are you a 50+ woman business owner or entrepreneur who's dealing with navigating classic midlife issues that are affecting the way you run your business? We're looking to interview guests just like you from a wide variety of different businesses! Apply now: www.midlifeinterviews.com. LISTEN HERE for iTunes and HERE for Suzy's website.HAPPINESS BREAKTHROUGH COACHING SESSION: Imagine having a private 2-hour coaching call to get some solid clarity about what's holding you back and be confident about your next steps forward! Time for a breakthrough! Limited spots available. Book here.THE WOMEN IN THE MIDDLE® ACADEMY: The “Academy” is an exciting, life changing, 12-month, online group coaching program and community for midlife women. You will develop a roadmap to help you go from being unclear about what you want to be crystal clear about how to create a more fun, meaningful, and regret free next chapter! Head over to

The moment midlife asks more of you, and the trust and fear issues that may be holding you back.Midlife doesn't usually announce itself with a crisis.More often, it shows up quietly — as restlessness, hesitation, or the sense that the life you've built no longer fits the way it used to.In this special episode of the School of Midlife Podcast, host Laurie Reynoldson is sharing a live recording from the final day of a recent masterclass — a conversation about trust, fear, and the moment midlife asks us to choose differently.Not because something is wrong.But because something more is possible.In this episode, we explore:Why hesitation in midlife is often a trust issue, not a clarity issueThe three fears that keep high-achieving women stuck:fear of judgment (What will they think of me?)fear of failure (What if I'm not good enough?)fear of success (What if I actually do the thing?)Why waiting is still a decision — and how default choices quietly shape our livesHow identity shifts in midlife impact our decisions, relationships, and sense of selfThe ripple effects of choosing yourself — in your marriage, your family, and the legacy you're modeling for your childrenWhy regret doesn't come from trying and failing — but from never trying at allThis is not a conversation about blowing up your life or starting over.It's about learning how to stop overthinking, trust yourself again, and make intentional choices aligned with who you are now — not who you were ten or twenty years ago.If you've been feeling stuck between the life you have and the life you want, this episode is an invitation to pause, reflect, and ask an honest question:What would it look like to choose differently — on purpose?Want to Go Deeper?The BEST LIFE Lab is a guided coaching experience for high-achieving midlife women who are ready to stop waiting and start choosing their lives intentionally — with clarity, support, and self-trust.You can learn more here.

Heather Vickery and Alan Seales sit down with Troy Horne, a multi-hyphenate creative whose career spans music, Broadway, television, entrepreneurship, and authorship. The conversation explores what it really means to take intentional risks—especially in midlife—and how clarity, courage, and self-trust compound over time. Troy shares how his creative journey began with a childhood performance in church that revealed both his talent and his appetite for risk. From there, he followed a path shaped by persistence rather than certainty, navigating choir, talent shows, and eventually national television on Star Search. That experience became an early lesson in how the entertainment industry actually works—where talent matters, but timing, narrative, and business needs often matter just as much. The discussion traces Troy's decision to move to Los Angeles with limited resources, highlighting the importance of “networking sideways” rather than chasing gatekeepers. Troy recounts his time working alongside peers who would later become industry leaders, including Octavia Spencer, and how those early peer relationships proved more valuable than traditional ladder-climbing. A pivotal moment in the episode is Troy's Broadway story. While auditioning for Rent, he turned down a touring role because it conflicted with his personal values and family priorities. That clarity led to an unexpected outcome: a Broadway role as Tom Collins. This moment anchors a central theme of the episode—knowing what you want, and being willing to say no, often creates space for the right yes. The episode culminates in a discussion of Troy's latest book, Middle Management: How to Find Meaning, Clarity, and Success in the Second Half of Life. Troy outlines the mindset shifts required for midlife reinvention, including the necessity of quieting external noise, reconnecting with one's internal voice, and recognizing that experience—not youth—is the true advantage of the second half of life. Throughout the episode, Troy reinforces the idea that reinvention is not about starting over, but about reapplying everything you already know with greater intention. Midlife, he argues, is not a closing chapter—it is often the moment when the best tools, clearest values, and boldest opportunities finally converge. Connect With Us:

Midlife doesn't send a save-the-date. It crashes in with hot flashes, career pivots, shifting relationships, and a strange sense that the roles you've played no longer fit. Award-winning strategist Angela Burk, author of The Real Girls Guide to Midlife,  joins us to tell the truth about that collision—funny, fierce, and refreshingly free of glitter. We talk about the silent years when perimenopause had no name, the rage and fatigue that felt like character flaws, and the moment she found a red folder of old notes and decided to write the book she needed two decades ago.We unpack the most persistent myths, including the idea that everything gets better 12 months after your last period. Angela shares why symptoms can come in waves, how to advocate for real care, and what happens when you stop apologizing for your needs. We dig into nourishment without the miracle-talk: three solid meals, protein to protect muscle, fiber for metabolic health, hydration that matters, and strength training that keeps bones, joints, and confidence strong. No quick fixes, no shame—just grown-woman maintenance you can actually sustain.The heart of this conversation is identity and grief. We name the quiet losses—kids leaving, parents aging, bodies changing—and move from guilt to permission. Angela offers simple scripts for boundaries that stick and a “midlife manifesto” exercise: write a personal contract naming one thing you're done carrying and one you're ready to reclaim. Community makes it easier, which is why her Substack has become a village where honest stories spark real change. If you're tired of playing small and ready to feel like the main character in your life again, this one's for you.If this resonated, follow and subscribe, share with a friend who needs to hear it, and leave a quick review so more women can find our community.Where to Find Angela on Substack, click HEREAngelas book The Real Girls Guide to Midlife HEREJOIN THE WELL NOURISHED WOMAN COMMUNITY! Click HEREI would love to hear from you! What did you think of the episode? Share it with me :) Support the showLet's Be FriendsHang out with Heather on IG @greenpalettekitchen or on FB HERE.Let's Talk!Whether you are looking for 1-1 nutrition coaching or kitchen coaching let's have a chat. Click HERE to reach out to Heather.Did You Love This Episode? "I love Heather and the Real Food Stories Podcast!" If this is you, please do not hesitate to leave a five-star review on Apple or wherever you listen to podcasts.

This is a special live episode of The Shift with Sam Baker podcast, recorded live at the wonderful Portobello Bookshop in Edinburgh.  Catherine Newman is the author of some of the most on-the-nose books about being a woman in midlife that I've ever read - her bestselling debut, We All Want Impossible Things, Sandwich and, now, Wreck. Imagine if Nora Ephron and Elizabeth Strout's Lucy Barton met in a bar and did edibles together and you have something approximating Catherine's creation, Rocky, and her family - Nick, Willa and Jamie and her 93 year old dad.  A normal loving, anxious, messy, unpredictable, relatable, family, living through a year of what ifs that veer uncomfortably close to home. Wreck asks, how do we live when we don't know what next?  I think that's something we can all identify with right now! Catherine has also written two memoirs and a couple of children's books, is an award-winning writer and columnist and contributes regularly to the New York Times and O, the oprah magazine. For ten years she also wrote Real Simple's etiquette column and she has an excellent substack, Crone Sandwich. Which I highly recommend you check out. Catherine and I chatted generational (mis)understanding, surviving the midlife sandwich, giving up drinking, life after menopause, rewriting your family's life and being a covert cookbook nerd. f you're listening to this on the podcast, you can get a signed copy of Wreck by going to Portobello Bookshop's website - theportobellobookshop.com. * Alternatively, you can buy all the books mentioned in this podcast at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Shift bookshop on Bookshop.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, including Wreck and Sandwich by Catherine Newman as well as the book that inspired this podcast, The Shift: how I lost and found myself after 40 - and you can too, by me. * If you enjoyed this episode and you fancy buying me a coffee, pop over to my page on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠buymeacoffee.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. • And if you'd like to support the work that goes into making this podcast and get a weekly newsletter plus loads more content including exclusive transcripts of the podcast, why not join The Shift community, come and have a look around at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.theshiftwithsambaker.substack.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A career pivot in his early 40s forced Nathan Karol to confront something he had not thought about since childhood: how his brain actually works. What followed was not a crisis, but a reorientation. Through therapy, testing accommodations, and a willingness to rebuild his systems from the inside out, Nathan found relief, momentum, and a version of success that fits him. This conversation explores late-diagnosed ADHD, identity, ambition, and the freedom that comes from finally working with your wiring instead of against it.Guest Bio Nathan Karol has played many roles in the world both personal and professional. Most notably he is a husband, father, Jew by choice, mental health advocate and mediocre golfer. He's spent his life figuring out what he wants to do when he "grows up," having been mentored and influenced by some amazing human beings. The years around forty have been full of change, reflection, awareness and hard work both professionally and personally.Turning 40 and discovering why a lifetime of ‘normal' felt so hardNathan Karol's midlife transition did not arrive with fireworks or a dramatic breakdown. It arrived through pressure, persistence, and a growing realization that the way he had been moving through the world no longer fit his life or, more importantly, how his brain worked. In his early 40s, while pivoting into a new career in financial services, Nathan was forced to confront something he had not thought about since childhood: ADHD. What followed was a reckoning. Through therapy, testing accommodations, and a radical reframing of what success can look like, Nathan found clarity, self-trust, and a path that finally works with his wiring instead of against it.In this episode, we talk about:Growing up curious, hands-on, and constantly in motion, and how early experiences shape adult identity.Losing connection to a childhood ADHD diagnosis and the quiet ways it continued to affect work, stress, and self-worth.Why traditional career paths and rigid structures can be especially punishing for ADHD brains.Hitting a wall in midlife when intense licensing exams forced Nathan to relearn how his brain actually works.The power of therapy, diagnosis, and accommodations in adulthood, and why none of that is a failure.Letting go of a solo business that no longer scaled, and stepping into a role that offers both structure and autonomy.Redefining success as building systems that work for you, not forcing yourself into ones that do not.Midlife clarity often comes from revisiting old truths with new eyes. Nathan didn't start over from scratch. But he worked towards understanding himself enough to choose a path that fit. His transition demonstrates how self-awareness, support, and flexibility can turn long-standing friction into momentum, and how learning how your brain works can change everything about how you live and work.If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate, follow, and share The Big Four Oh Podcast. It helps more people find these stories and reminds them they are not alone.Guest ResourcesConnect with Nathan on InstagramDo you have the Midlife Ick? Download Stephanie's guide to the Ick to diagnose whether you or someone you...

Have you ever heard that menopause is like a second puberty? I think that idea goes beyond the hormonal changes and into something deeper: our identity.We're no longer considered “young,” but identifying as “old” doesn't sit right either. As women in midlife, many of us are coming into our power. After decades of raising kids, taking care of family, navigating marriage and career, we finally have time and energy to turn inward.And we're not done living.In this episode, I share my own struggle with this identity shift and the conclusions I've come to for myself. My hope is that by sharing my story, it helps someone who's wrestling with the same questions.Enjoy the show!Send me your thoughts

 “What we call a risk is often just hanging on to a reality that may no longer be true.” In this episode I chat with Avivah Wittenberg-Cox, a global expert on 21st-century leadership, gender and generational balance, longevity, and the future of work. We explore the Four Quarter Lives framework (Q1 Grow, Q2 Achieving, Q3 Becoming, Q4 Harvesting), why lifespans are getting longer, and what that means for individuals, teams, and organizations. Our conversation covers practical changes for workplaces, the reframing of aging beyond decline, how to approach risk in midlife, and how to design careers and communities for longer, more purposeful lives. The episode includes guidance on leadership strategy, intergenerational collaboration, and personal planning for a longer horizon. Key takeaways - The Four Quarter Lives framework reframes a 100-year life into four 25-year phases: Grow (Q1), Achieving (Q2), Becoming (Q3), Harvesting (Q4). This helps individuals and organizations plan for longer, more varied careers. - Achieving (Q2) is not the endpoint; Q3 is a peak period for meaningful work, mentorship, and legacy-building, especially for women who have faced traditional juggling pressures. - Q4 is not decline; it's a time for legacy, contribution, and intergenerational engagement. As lifespans extend, many will shift toward continued purpose, learning, and mentoring. - Ageism and DEI shouldn't be the starting frame for addressing aging in organizations. Instead, demographics should be integrated into strategic planning at the executive level to influence talent, markets, and long-term resilience. - Midlife is a critical transition - often mischaracterized as a crisis. A proactive “midlife rethink” helps people plan for a longer horizon and avoid stagnation. - Intergenerational connections are valuable. Practical ideas like Generations Over Dinner can foster mutual understanding and collaboration across age groups. - The conversation emphasizes resilience and opportunity: risk should be reframed as choosing growth over clinging to a status quo that no longer aligns with longer, healthier lifespans.   Resources and links mentioned - Four Quarter Lives podcast: https://www.avivahwittenbergcox.com/podcasts/4-quarter-lives  - Elderberries Substack: https://elderberries.substack.com/  - 20 First: https://20-first.com/  - Generations Over Dinner: https://www.generationsoverdinner.com/  — a practical way to connect different age groups - The Correspondent by Virginia Evans: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-correspondent-virginia-evans/7732977    Who should listen - Midcareer professionals (especially those in their 40s–60s) planning for longer, more varied career lives - Leaders and HR/talent professionals shaping long-term workforce strategy and age-inclusive growth - Anyone interested in reframing aging, intergenerational collaboration, and longevity as a positive opportunity   If you enjoy the podcast please help us grow by sharing this episode, or writing a review. You can also find me at www.thetripleshift.org / www.managingthemenpause.com  connect with me at https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmacthomas/  follow along on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/middlingalong_podcast/ or subscribe to my Substack at https://middlingalong.substack.com/     

I love conversations that remind you who you are before the world told you who to be. In this episode, I sit down with Cynthia Garcia, Founder of Rewritten Beauty, to talk about what it's really like to start over in your 40s, the ego deaths that come with reinvention, and the fear that shows up when you leave what you're known for to answer a deeper calling. Cynthia shares the emotional reality of launching a physical product brand, the pressure of having more to lose later in life, and why an “easy” life can quietly drain your sense of purpose. Tune in to know the difference between a personal brand and a living brand, how to create a category of one, and why people buy who you've become.  Check out our Sponsors: Northwest Registered Agent - Don't wait, protect your privacy, build your brand and get your complete business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes! Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/EarnFree Shopify - Try the ecommerce platform I trust for Glōci, Sign up for your $1/month trial period at http://Shopify.com/happy Brevo - the all-in-one marketing and CRM platform built to help you connect with customers, boost engagement, and grow your business smarter. Get started for free today, or use code HAPPY50 to save 50% on Starter and Standard Plans for the first three months of an annual subscription. Just head to http://www.brevo.com/happy Working Genius - If you're a CEO, an entrepreneur, or anyone who wants to level up, Working Genius helps you drop the shame around your weaknesses and focus on what you naturally do best. Take the Working Genius assessment and get 20% off with code EARN at http://workinggenius.com Indeed - Spend less time searching, and more time actually interviewing candidates who check all your boxes. Indeed is giving Earn Your Happy listeners a $75 SPONSORED JOB CREDIT to help get your job the premium status it deserves. Just go to http://Indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on Earn Your Happy. HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 How I discovered Cynthia through trusted referrals. 03:30 The eighth grade moment that rewired Cynthia's destiny. 10:00 The rage that sparked Cynthia's skincare brand at 40. 12:30 Why women are told it's “all downhill” after midlife. 18:15 The discomfort of starting over after mastery. 21:30 The reality of physical products and pivots. 27:45 Why does risk feel different in your 40s than in your 20s? 29:00 How an “easy life” creates anxiety and depression. 31:45 How trauma can build entrepreneurial resilience. 37:00 How Cynthia decided to commit despite fear. 42:00 Why ego deaths are part of becoming who you're meant to be. 49:00 Why women feel they must win on the first try. 52:00 What's the difference between personal brand vs. living brand? 56:30 Why people buy proximity to proof. 01:00:00 Why sameness makes you invisible. 01:05:30 The products that get rid of your zombie cells.   RESOURCES Listen to Cynthia's FREE audiobook “Undeniable” HERE! Shop Cynthia's skincare line Rewritten HERE! Apply for the Elite Entrepreneur Mastermind HERE! Get on the waitlist for Mentor Collective Mastermind HERE! Try glōci for 40% off your first order with code HAPPY at checkout - head to getgloci.com FOLLOW Follow me: @loriharder Follow glōci: @getgloci Follow Cynthia: @iamcynthiagarcia

Midlife moms are carrying so much—parenting teens, managing work, holding families together, and often supporting aging parents at the same time. It's no surprise so many moms feel emotionally depleted, overstretched, and quietly burned out. In this episode, Colleen O'Grady sits down with Dr. Allison Alford, author of Good Daughtering: The Work You've Always Done, The Credit You've Never Gotten, and How to Finally Feel Like Enough, to name a role many women live out—but rarely talk about: daughtering. Dr. Alford explains why adult daughters often don't recognize (or receive credit for) the mental and emotional labor they carry, and how that invisibility can fuel guilt, resentment, and burnout. Together, they explore what it looks like to define “good enough,” set healthy boundaries, and create more balance—without losing love or connection. ✅ 3 Key Takeaways Daughtering is more than what you “do.” It includes emotional labor, mental load, planning, worrying, smoothing conflict, and carrying responsibility—often unseen and unmeasured. Burnout grows when expectations stay unspoken. Many women feel “never good enough” because they're trying to meet a standard that hasn't been clearly defined—by their parents, siblings, or even themselves. You can define “good enough” and still be loving. Healthy daughtering includes boundaries. You don't have to overfunction to prove your worth—and you're not responsible for managing everyone else's feelings.

Midlife women are triple-booked—careers, caregiving, hormonal changes—and our sex lives are paying the price. When sex drops off your radar, you're missing out on more than pleasure—sexual health matters for your overall wellbeing, says Dr. Maria Sophocles, OB-GYN and author of “The Bedroom Gap.” With 30 years of treating tens of thousands of patients, Dr. Sophocles reveals why midlife women are experiencing sexual burnout at alarming rates and what we can do about it. Inspired by Gloria Steinem's urgent call—"write it like your house is on fire"—her new book shares practical solutions for reigniting desire, preventing painful sex, and offers tools like mindfulness, lubes, erotica, and new sex tech to reclaim pleasure. Your midlife bedroom gap ends here, beauties! FOLLOW A CERTAIN AGE ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ GET INBOX INSPO: Sign up for our newsletter ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠AGE BOLDLY⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ We share new episodes, giveaways, links we love, and midlife resources Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you've been going through the motions, feeling unmotivated, or wondering how you ended up here, this episode is for you.In this episode of Candidly with Coffee, we talk honestly about what it means to feel stuck in life and why so many people quietly drift instead of intentionally choosing what's next. From identity shifts and delayed grief to losing curiosity and momentum, this conversation is a wake-up call to stop waiting for clarity and start taking ownership of your life again.What you'll learn:• Why midlife often feels heavy, confusing, or directionless• How waiting for motivation or the “right time” keeps you stuck• The difference between surviving and actually thriving• Why no one is coming to save you — and why that's empowering• How curiosity, learning, and trying again bring life back online• Why midlife can be the beginning of your most meaningful chapter#midlifemindset #feelingstuck #midlifeawakening #personalgrowth #lifereset #candidlywithcoffee #podcastJoin this channel to get access to perks:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_8nonbBsA-mTli1KLlHlrA/joinWork with Jeaninehttps://www.jeanineescobar.comMike's YouTube Channel:  @escoelitemindsetMike's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/@escoelitemindsetSupport our Sponsors1UP Nutrition Code: JEANINEhttps://www.1upnutrition.com /discount/jeanineTranscendhttps://www.transcendcompany.com/escoeliteMegaFit Meals - Code Jeanine https://megafitmeals.rfrl.co/p75q7Built Bar Code: MRSCEOJhttps://builtbar.com?baapp=MRSCEOJSupport us by following on Social MediaAmazon Storefront: https://www.amazon.com/shop/mrsceo_jLTK Fashion Links: https://www.shopLTK.com/explore/MrsCEO_JInstagram: https://instagram.com/mrsceo_jInstagram: https://instagram.com/candidly_withcoffeeWeight Loss IG: https://instagram.com/@jsbodybootcampTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mrsceo_j

Dating again in midlife can stir up a mix of curiosity, hope, and very real hesitation. After divorce, it's not just about meeting someone new, it's about trusting your instincts and believing that love can feel different this time. Susan Guthrie welcomes back one of Divorce & Beyond's most trusted and favorite guests, Bela Gandhi, for an honest, encouraging conversation about what it truly takes to move from fear to confidence when dating again in midlife. Known as America's go-to dating coach and beloved by the Divorce & Beyond community, Bela brings warmth, optimism, and refreshingly practical wisdom to a chapter that often feels overwhelming. Together, Susan and Bela unpack why midlife dating can actually be better than ever, how to stop repeating old patterns that no longer serve you, and what smart, intentional dating looks like when you're choosing differently and more consciously this time around. What You'll Learn Why fear around dating after divorce is normal How those “rollercoaster butterflies” are usually a sign of anxiety, not chemistry, and how to recognize calm as a healthier sign of compatibility How dating today offers more options, visibility, and agency than ever before, especially for midlife daters Why confidence in dating comes from having a clear plan, not luck, timing, or instant sparks How slowing down and allowing connection to develop over time leads to better long-term outcomes About the Guest  Bela Gandhi is a dating/relationship expert, TEDx speaker, founder of Smart Dating AcademyÒ and has been featured on most national/local media outlets including Good Morning America, Steve Harvey, the Today Show, Kelly Clarkson, Access, ABC, NBC, Fox, and more.  Bela realized her gift for love when she was in college and started matchmaking and coaching her friends – watching them sail on to relationship bliss and marriage.  Using her own system, Bela found her own amazing husband of over 20 years, and in 2009, founded Smart Dating AcademyÒ.  Smart Dating Academy teaches singles all over the globe the Smart DatingÒ four phase system – 1) Preparing to Date, 2) Dating, 3) Exclusivity and 4) Happily Ever After.   They specialize in VIP 1:1 coaching, and with clients that have followed their system, they've had ‘zero divorces.'  They help singles to ‘fix their pickers' because their coaches are deep in the weeds with clients, helping read profiles, message, and rate each date after it happens – she makes dating fun, easy and successful!   Before starting Smart Dating Academy, Bela earned dual degrees in Finance and German from the University of Illinois in Urbana/Champaign.  Bela worked in mergers and acquisitions for Arthur Andersen in Chicago for a year before joining her family's chemicals manufacturing company (called CCC), where she divided her time between Chicago and Europe helping to expand the business. When they sold the business to Fortune 500 company Akzo Nobel, she was asked to remain its leader and became Akzo Nobel Non-Stick Coating's Global Vice President of Housewares.   While climbing the corporate ladder, she realized it was time to unveil her system to the world, and it was her best decision ever.  Bela lives in Lincoln Park with her husband Andy and 2 children, Jaden and Max, and is going to be an empty nester next year!    Connect with Bela Gandhi Website: http://smartdatingacademy.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/smartdatingacademy Podcast: https://www.smartdatingacademy.com/podcast The Midlife Dating Mindset Reset Guide Download Make the Most of Your Listening Experience: If this episode resonates with you, be sure to: Subscribe to Divorce & Beyond so you never miss an episode. Share this episode with friends or loved ones who need hope and healing. Leave a 5-star review to help us reach even more listeners. Follow Us Online: Divorce & Beyond:  https://divorceandbeyondpod.com, IG: @divorceandbeyondpod Meet Our Host Susan E. Guthrie®, Esq. is one of the nation's leading family law and mediation experts, with more than 35 years of experience helping individuals and families navigate divorce and conflict with clarity and compassion. She is the Immediate Past Chair of the American Bar Association Section of Dispute Resolution, a best-selling author, and a sought-after speaker, trainer, and practice-building consultant. Susan recently appeared as the featured expert on The Oprah Podcast, where she shared her insights on gray divorce and the changing landscape of relationships. Her expertise has also been featured in The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, The Washington Post, NewsNation, and NBC's Chicago Today, among many others. As the creator and host of the award-winning Divorce & Beyond® Podcast, ranked in the top 1% of all podcasts worldwide with more than 3.4 million downloads, Susan brings together top experts and powerful personal stories to help listeners move through divorce and beyond with confidence, insight, and hope. Learn more about Susan and her work at susaneguthrie.com. Divorce & Beyond is a Top 1% Overall and Top 100 Self-Help podcast designed to help you with all you need to know to navigate your divorce journey and most importantly, to thrive in your beautiful beyond!   ***************************************************************************** A Smarter, Simpler Way to Navigate Your Divorce Looking for a clearer and more affordable way to move through your divorce? Check out Hello Divorce. Their guided online platform combines easy-to-follow tools with real legal and coaching support to help you complete your divorce with less stress, less confusion, and far lower costs than a traditional courtroom battle. They have created a special page just for Divorce & Beyond listeners. Explore your options at hellodivorce.com/susan. ***************************************************************************** Special Offer from Blue Mercury Treat yourself to luxury skincare, makeup, and fragrance favorites from Blue Mercury, your destination for beauty and self-care. Divorce & Beyond listeners receive 15% off their first order when they use the special link in the show notes. Because you deserve to look and feel your best,  inside and out. 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Mornings in midlife can feel harder than they used to—more fatigue, more brain fog, more cravings, and less patience for rigid routines. In this Tea & Truth episode, Lynne shares a midlife-friendly morning framework that supports hormones, energy, and the nervous system—without perfection, pressure, or unrealistic "5am routine" advice. You'll learn how to build a flexible Morning Menu you can personalize, plus simple routines for tired days so you can start steady and feel more like yourself. Show Notes: If you've ever woken up and thought, "Why do I feel behind before the day even starts?" — you're not alone. In midlife, hormone shifts can change your energy, stress response, blood sugar stability, sleep quality, and motivation. That's why the old "just push through" approach often stops working. In today's Tea & Truth, we're creating a midlife-friendly morning routine that feels supportive, realistic, and repeatable. This isn't a rigid checklist. It's a flexible framework designed to help you start your day with more steadiness and less pressure. In this episode, you'll learn: Why midlife mornings are less about motivation and more about nervous system regulation The 3 S's framework: Soften • Steady • Signal How to create a flexible Morning Menu instead of one "perfect routine" Simple ways to support energy and cravings with a steadier first hour The "4 levels" of morning routines (so your routine still counts on tired days) A gentle approach to consistency that doesn't rely on willpower Free download for this episode: Midlife Morning Menu (1-page guide): https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/8q1mf8y6z9mqhys39ep4r/Midlife-Morning-Menu.pdf Connect with Lynne: Imagine not having to "figure out midlife" on your own anymore.

⁠I am delighted to welcome Dr. Andy Galpin today. He is a scientist and tenured professor with a PhD in Human Bioenergetics and an MS in Human Movement Sciences. He has spent the last 20 years focusing on the science and practice of enhancing human performance, in all its forms. He coaches some of the world's highest performers, helping them fulfill their true potential. In our conversation, we dive into women's health during perimenopause and menopause, exploring the impact of estrogen decline on muscle and bone loss, the vital role of resistance training, and the integration of hormone therapy and GLP-1 medications. Dr. Galpin highlights the importance of sleep, offers practical strategies for starting an exercise routine, and shares some research on barriers to women's health. He also addresses overtraining, under-fueling, and the need for an individualized, evidence-based approach for supporting women's health and wellness. Stay tuned for Dr. Galpin's clear guidance on optimizing and maintaining your health through perimenopause, menopause, and beyond. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: How estrogen decline impacts women's muscle and bone loss in middle age Why sleep is foundational for recovery, metabolic health, and body composition The importance of resistance training as a lifestyle intervention in midlife How under-fueling undermines your performance and recovery The critical importance of learning movement skills in childhood Strength training tips for middle-aged women Ways to optimize your VO2 Max training How unnecessary rules suggested in fitness messaging can make training less sustainable for many women How hormone therapy and GLP-1 medications can support training and metabolic health Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia's website. Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow. Cynthia's Menopause Gut Book is on presale now! Cynthia's Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Connect with Dr. Andy Galpin On Instagram and X Absolute Rest Vitality Optima Muscle