Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast Creating Midlife Calm: Coping Skills for Stress & Anxiety in Family, Work & Relationships

Do you know what to do the moment panic hits?
Panic attacks in midlife can feel terrifying and overwhelming—but they’re not dangerous, and you’re not powerless.
In this episode, you’ll discover:

1. Three science-backed coping skills to calm your body during a panic attack.
2. How to apply these tools in both public and private situations—and why they don’t have to be used perfectly to be effective
3. Two essential steps to support your nervous system after a panic attack so you can recover with care, not self-judgment

This episode will leave you feeling more equipped and less afraid. And don’t forget: your Inner Challenge is to email MJ at mj@mjmurrayvachon.com to receive a free 3-minute guided box breathing audio—your personal panic reset tool you can keep on your phone.
 These are the coping skills you didn’t know you needed—until now.

Send us a text

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About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Ever feel like midlife disappointment means you did something wrong—or that it’s too late to recover?
You’re not alone. Many people silently carry the shame of unmet expectations, broken relationships, or careers that stalled.
In this episode, you’ll discover:

1. Why anxiety and shame are natural responses to midlife setbacks—and how to work with them
2. How to use emotional processing and acceptance as real coping skills
3. Why asking “Who am I now?” is the question that opens the door to growth and calm

 Take 12 minutes to calm your anxiety and reclaim your story—you’re worth it.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Are you worried that aging in midlife means becoming less relevant, less energetic, or less you?
You don’t have to accept that mindset—this episode gives you the tools to reshape it.
In this episode, you’ll discover:

1. How to identify and challenge the negative beliefs midlife can quietly plant in your mind
2. Why your emotional, social, and mental habits matter just as much as your physical ones when it comes to aging well
3. Three science-backed coping skills to help you stay connected, mentally clear, and open to growth—no matter your age

Press play to reset how you think about aging and start designing your next chapter with purpose

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Does Father’s Day bring more dread than celebration?
You’re not the only Midlifer who feels anxious or conflicted about your relationship with your Dad.

In this episode, you’ll discover:
1. Why your father can still trigger deep anxiety, anger and hurt  in midlife, even if you rarely see him
2. Five powerful coping skills to protect your peace before, during, and after Father’s Day
3. How to turn pain into growth without needing to “fix” your relationship with your Dad.

🎧 Take 12 minutes to reclaim your calm and care for yourself this Father’s Day—you’re worth it.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Does Father’s Day bring more dread than celebration?
You’re not the only Midlifer who feels anxious or conflicted about your relationship with your Dad.

In this episode, you’ll discover:
1. Why your father can still trigger deep anxiety, anger and hurt  in midlife, even if you rarely see him
2. Five powerful coping skills to protect your peace before, during, and after Father’s Day
3. How to turn pain into growth without needing to “fix” your relationship with your Dad.

🎧 Take 12 minutes to reclaim your calm and care for yourself this Father’s Day—you’re worth it.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Is someone you care about  graduating yet  feeling  anxious, uncertain, or overwhelmed?
This episode offers the two questions that can guide them through early adulthood with clarity and calm.
Here’s what you’ll take away from this episode:

1. Why anxiety after graduation is not failure—but a normal part of becoming yourself
2. Two foundational questions to keep you grounded: Who am I? and Can I love?
3. Simple, powerful coping skills to stay present while you grow through uncertainty

 Listen now to help the graduates you love feel seen, steady, and ready for the road ahead.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Have you ever felt the quiet anxiety of stepping into midlife without a roadmap or recognition?
This episode is your invisible graduation ceremony—honoring the transition no one prepared you for.
.Here’s what you’ll take away from this episode:

1. Why anxiety in midlife is normal—and often a sign you’re being called into leadership.
2. How to cultivate coping skills that are rooted in presence, not performance.
3. The surprising power of quiet transitions and how they shape your influence and purpose.

 Listen now to honor your own midlife graduation and step into the role you’ve been preparing for all along.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Are you stuck in anxiety and overwhelmed by your never-ending to-do list?
You’re not alone — and the surprising solution might be something you haven’t done in years: play.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

1.  How play calms your brain and reduces anxiety in midlife

2.  The two biggest reasons anxious adults stop playing — and how to overcome          them

3.   Simple coping skills to bring play back into daily life — from joy scrolling to five minutes on a backyard swing

🎧 Press play now to rediscover laughter, lightness, and the forgotten coping skill your midlife brain needs.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Are you too anxious, tired, or busy to have fun this summer?
You’re not alone—but science shows that fun  isn’t frivolous

In this episode, you’ll discover:

1. Why summer is uniquely suited to help you reset your anxiety.
2. How childhood memories can guide your adult self toward healing and play.
3. A simple 3-step tool to help you bring back fun—even if it feels far away.

🎧 Press play to learn how small moments of joy can interrupt the stress cycle and become one of your most reliable coping skills in midlife.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Are you caught between wanting to help your adult child and drowning in anxiety because nothing seems to change?
There’s a way to support them without losing yourself.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

1. How to shift into a steady mindset that protects your peace — and gives your child the space they need to build confidence and resilience.
2. How to set clear, loving boundaries around finances, home life, and expectations — helping your child develop responsibility and independence.
3. How to recognize and address overuse and addiction issues with calm honesty — creating an environment where real healing and progress can begin.

🎧 Listen now to start building doable coping skills you need to ease anxiety, stay grounded, and support your adult child’s growth without enabling.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Are you feeling anxious about your adult child who just isn’t launching?
You’re not alone—and you’re definitely not a bad parent.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

1.  Why today’s young adults are facing a drastically different—and harder—world than previous generations

2.  How phones, cannabis, and constant cultural pessimism are impacting motivation and mental health

3.  What you can do to move from guilt and frustration to calm, clarity, and more effective support

🎧 Listen now this episode will help you see the bigger picture and reclaim a sense of power and peace—no matter where your child is on their journey.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Are you or you kids relying on cannabis to unwind, sleep, or deal with anxiety? 
 You’re not alone—and you’re not broken—but you might be self-medicating in a way that’s backfiring.

In this episode  you’ll discover:

1. How cannabis quietly shifts from a tool to a trap—and the signs you’re missing.
2. The difference between social and chronic use and why it matters for your anxiety.
3. Why modeling healthy coping skills is crucial if you’re parenting in the cannabis era.

✨ If you're ready to feel more present, focused, and emotionally grounded—without numbing out—this episode is your reset button.

👉 Listen now to rethink your relationship with cannabis and reclaim your calm.

Huberman Lab Podcast – Episode 92: "The Effects of Cannabis (Marijuana) on the Brain & Body" (October 3, 2022)

🔗 Watch on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gXvuJu1kt48

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Are you still reaching for a glass of wine to take the edge off midlife anxiety?
What once felt like a relaxing ritual may now be working against your peace, sleep, and sanity.
In this episode, you’ll discover:

1.    Why midlife hormonal and brain changes can cause alcohol to increase—not           relieve—your anxiety.

2.    Four healthier, science-backed coping skills that will REALLY help your anxiety. 

3.    How to track your drinking habits, rewire your routines to regain control over your emotional well-being.

Press play to learn how to reclaim calm and feel better—without wine running the show.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

What if the way you respond to crisis could reshape your anxiety—and your relationships?
This powerful episode reveals how one midlife couple used emotional presence, humor, and grounded coping skills to face a devastating cancer diagnosis.

Discover:

1.     Coping skills that hold both grief and joy in times of deep uncertainty

2.     Why emotional honesty—not toughness—relieves midlife anxiety during crisis

3.     How community, faith, and presence redefine mental wellness in the face of cancer

Listen now to discover how midlife anxiety shifts when you stop fighting and start dancing through it.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Are you frustrated that anxiety medication isn’t giving you the relief you hoped for?
If you’ve been relying solely on medication and still struggle with anxiety, there’s hope.
In this episode you’ll discover:

1. Five simple, no-cost strategies to enhance your medication’s effectiveness and build a more balanced life.
2. How to shift your mindset from “I need to fix my anxiety” to “I need to improve my lifestyle” for long-term relief.
3. The 5  practical things you NEED to do, to reduce your anxiety. Even if you take medication

Press play now to uncover the missing pieces of anxiety treatment and take the first step toward a healthier, calmer you! 

Links to Episodes Mentioned in Episode 155:

Ep. 61 – Mental Wellness: Specific Coping Skills for & Losing Weight Your Way in Young Adulthood, Midlife & the Golden Years
https://tinyurl.com/y3eukhnh

Ep. 91 – Use These 2 Mindfulness Practices To Instantly Increase Gratitude, Calm & Joy!
https://tinyurl.com/u82dbx4z

Ep. 93 – 5 Simple Sleep Hacks To Help You Sleep Better Tonight!
https://tinyurl.com/ymbte8xu

Ep. 121 – Outsmarting Your Smartphone – The Science and Solutions You Need To Decrease Anxiety & Increase Midlife Calm
https://tinyurl.com/43znpns9

Ep. 122 – 3 Proven Coping Skills to Outsmart Your Smartphone and Decrease Anxiety & Reclaim 2 Hours a Day for Midlife Calm
https://tinyurl.com/mvbd5dzk
(Additional Link: https://pod.fo/e/2ac72e)

Ep. 123 – Simple Hacks to Conquer Midlife Exercise Resistance, Shift Your Mindset, Decrease Anxiety This New Year
https://tinyurl.com/3nbrh2b2

Ep. 124 – 3 Science-Backed Coping Skills to Overcome Exercise Challenges in Midlife
https://tinyurl.com/4p8rhma5

Ep. 140 – Understanding Hormones and Anxiety and How Midlife Women Can Regain Control
https://tinyurl.com/55df8dn4

Ep. 141 – The 3 Essential Hormones You Must Balance in Midlife for Less Anxiety, Better Sleep, and a Healthier Weight
https://tinyurl.com/5n6f4ksn

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Are you concerned about weight gain after starting anxiety medication? 

You  don’t have to choose between your mental health and your physical health.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

1. The key reasons why some anxiety medications lead to weight gain and how to identify if it's affecting you.
2. Four effective strategies to prevent and manage medication-related weight changes. 
3. How to work with your doctor to find the right medication for you

Press play now to gain the knowledge and tools to manage medication-related weight changes so you can feel your best—mentally and physically.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Are you quietly grieving while still showing up for everyone else?
Your kids need you differently, and your parent needs you more—everything inside can start to shift.

In this episode you’ll discover:

1. A deeper understanding of how anxiety and buziness in midlife often masks hidden grief of these profound relationship changes
2. Practical coping tools to manage emotional overwhelm and identity shifts
3. Language to name your experience and reconnect with your sense of self

If you’ve been carrying too much for too long, this episode will help you name the ache and soften the load.🎧 Listen now to reclaim clarity, calm, and a deeper connection to yourself in midlife.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Feeling mentally drained by caring for both your kids and aging parents?
You might be carrying an invisible load that’s fueling your anxiety—and it’s more common than you think.
In this episode, you’ll discover:

1.    3 transformative coping skills to ease the mental weight of caregiving.

2.    How to identify what’s  your responsibility and what isn’t to decrease

       overwhelm.          

3.    Why updating your expectations is essential for emotional clarity and peace

Give yourself permission to breathe again—tune in now and lighten your invisible load.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Are you blaming yourself for being too tired in a crisis?
Loss, illness, or major life upheaval can leave you emotionally raw and physically depleted. 

In this episode you’ll discover:

1. Why exhaustion hits so hard during crisis and doable ways to get more energy. 
2. Simple but effective coping skills to regulate your nervous system to improve your sleep and stay grounded. 
3. How to find strength in receiving care from others — even if that’s uncomfortable for you

This is your permission slip to stop pretending you’re fine.
Listen now to reclaim your energy, your mindset, and your midlife calm.

Resources Mentioned in Episode! (Enjoy!!) 

Andrew Huberman Meditation: Non Sleep Deep Rest  (NSDR)  Meditation: https://www.hubermanlab.com/nsdr#practice-nsdr

 https://www.tarabrach.com/meditation-anxiety-sleep-18min/

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

What do you do when everything falls apart?
Shifting from a reactive to a reflective mindset can make all the difference.

 In this episode, you’ll discover:

1.    A step-by-step process to ground yourself during emotional shock using body-based coping skills

2.    The “tend and befriend” mindset that helps you move through pain and anger with compassion

3.    Real-life stories showing how vulnerability—not anger—builds lasting strength in midlife

Feeling like everything is crumbling?
Tune in now to learn how to hold yourself with care, calm, and clarity when life hits hardest.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

 Is your anxiety spiking every time Trump’s tariffs make headlines?
You’re not alone—and it’s not just about politics, it’s about your nervous system.

In this episode you’ll discover:

1. How to shift from news-induced anxiety to calm by using this 2 simple technique.
2. How guided meditation can help to reduce anxiety around world events, like Trump's tariffs
3. The brain science behind this 1 essential hack to physically reduce anxiety🎙️

 Tune in now to learn simple, science-backed ways to reclaim your calm in midlife—even when the world feels chaotic.

Try this meditation:

Our Mindful Nature: Nurture by Nature Meditation for Anxiety

https://www.merylarnett.com/podcast/nurtured-by-nature-meditation-for-anxiety

Send us a text

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About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Feeling overwhelmed by the uncertainty of the  economy and unsure how to stay grounded?
Discover calming, practical strategies—whether you’re stressing about college costs, retirement, or just making it to next payday.
In this episode, you’ll learn:

1. Why your brain spirals into anxiety during economic uncertainty — and how to calm it
2. The unexpected power of nature-based meditation (even if you’re not into meditation)
3. Practical money moves to ease financial stress without feeding fear

Tune in to learn how to manage your anxiety before it manages you.

Try this meditation:

Our Mindful Nature: Nurture by Nature Meditation for Anxiety

https://www.merylarnett.com/podcast/nurtured-by-nature-meditation-for-anxiety

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Is your anxiety quietly fueling a sense of loneliness you can't quite name?
 
You may be crushing your to-do list but still feeling emotionally isolated or unseen, you’re not alone.  

In this episode you’ll discover: 

1. How anxiety masks itself as busyness, numbing, and overthinking in midlife
2. Why avoiding connection increases loneliness—and how to gently reverse it
3. Two powerful (and doable) coping skills to build real, nourishing relationships

If you're ready to turn up the light in your own life, this episode is your next step. Tune in now.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Loneliness in midlife often creeps in unnoticed.
You go through the motions—work, family, responsibilities—but something feels off.
In this episode, you’ll discover:

1. Why midlife loneliness is so common and why it often goes unrecognized.
2. Four powerful strategies to build deeper, more fulfilling connections.
3. How small, intentional actions can help you feel seen, heard, and truly connected again.

Loneliness isn’t inevitable—you have the power to change it. Press play now to start turning up the dimmer switch on connection in your life.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Are you secretly scared to feel your feelings—especially in the middle of setting boundaries?
Setting boundaries is essential, especially if you want to get your wants & needs to be heard. 
In this episode, you’ll discover:

1. How a guest pushes back on MJ's 5 science-backed coping skills--making them even more usable.  
2. Real talk on emotional stamina—why feeling your feelings actually builds  strength.
3. A relatable metaphor (hello, emotional rollercoaster!) to help you move through discomfort with clarity and intention.

 Listen now and start building coping skills that actually work for midlife anxiety—no perfection required.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Is anxiety stopping you from setting the boundaries you know you need?

Get a clear, simple strategy to move through fear and finally take action to get what you want and need.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

1. 5 simple, actionable coping skills to manage anxiety when it flares up around boundary-setting
2. Real-life client stories that show how midlife anxiety shows up in sneaky ways—and how to work with it
3. A practical script-building tool to help you set boundaries with confidence and calm

Start using these tools today to move through your anxiety and set boundaries that protect your peace. Listen now.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Are you constantly pushing yourself to the max, yet feeling exhausted and on edge?

Doing less could actually help you achieve more.

In this episode you’ll discover: 

 1.  Why striving for perfection might be holding you back.

2.  Two powerful midlife coping skills that make relaxation actually work for you.

3.  How shifting to an 80% effort mindset can prevent burnout and improve        productivity.

Press play now to unlock the secrets to managing anxiety and perfectionism boosting efficiency, and finally enjoying your success—without guilt.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Do you feel like you're constantly running, as if a boulder is chasing you downhill?

You can be successful and driven without the fear and exhaustion.

In this episode you’ll discover:

1. What truly fuels your success—it’s not your anxiety.
2. Learn how to update your self-image and move through life with less urgency and more ease.
3. Reframe your daily mindset by shifting from "I have to" to "I get to"—a small change that makes a huge difference. 

Listen now to overcome high-functioning anxiety and move through your days with calm, confidence, and ease.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Are your midlife hormones working for you or against you? 

What if you could become your own hormone detective and start with the right tests and lifestyle changes?

In this episode, you’ll discover:

1.     The three essential hormones that impact your midlife health the most.

1. How to talk to your doctor and get the right lab tests without frustration.
2. Three simple, doable lifestyle changes that can help balance your hormones and reduce anxiety.

Press play now to uncover practical steps to take control of your midlife health, feel better, and stop the hormone guessing game!

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Are you focusing on the wrong hormones in midlife?

Many women believe estrogen is the key to feeling better, but what if the real secret lies elsewhere.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

1. The three essential hormones that impact your mood, weight, and sleep.
2. Why your ovaries act like The Odd Couple and how that explains your hormonal ups and downs.
3. The surprising connection between your thyroid and your reproductive hormones—and how understanding this connection empowers you to make better health decisions. 

🎧 Press play now to uncover the truth about midlife hormones and take the first step toward feeling your best!

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Tired of feeling stuck in negative thoughts? 

Your brain is wired to focus on the bad—but you don’t have to stay trapped in that cycle. 

In this episode, you’ll discover:

 1.  The science behind negativity bias and how to use this four-step method to hack your mind so you can experience more joy, calm, and fulfillment.

2.   How to retrain your brain to focus on the positive—without toxic positivity or ignoring reality.

3.     How to redirect your mental energy toward meaningful, life-giving activities that bring you joy and fulfillment.

🎧 Listen now and uncover how small mental shifts can create lasting calm and help you break free from negativity bias!

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Ever had a frightening thought pop into your head that you just can’t shake?

Intrusive thoughts happen to everyone, but without the right tools, they can spiral into anxiety, stress, and sleepless nights.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

1.  How to recognize intrusive thoughts before they take over.

2.  A powerful four-step process backed by science to stop anxious thoughts in         their tracks.

3.  A fun brain hack that weakens anxiety and brings relief instantly.

Hit play now to start reducing intrusive thoughts before they control you—so you can feel calmer, more present, and back in control of your mind.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Feeling overwhelmed by the financial burden of college?
Navigating these tough conversations with your child without guilt, stress, or unnecessary conflict is not easy.

In this episode, you’ll discover

1. Five essential coping strategies to make informed, confident financial decisions while strengthening your relationship with your child.
2. How to engage your child in financial discussions—even if they’re resistant—and equip them with lifelong money management skills.
3.  Ways to process difficult emotions like guilt and jealousy so they don’t cloud your decision-making.

Tune in now to gain clarity, confidence, and practical strategies for navigating the emotional and financial challenges of paying for college—without letting stress take over!

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Have you ever felt the gut punch of watching your child face rejection—whether from a dream school, a job, or an opportunity they worked so hard for?

For midlife parents, March brings more than blooming flowers—it’s also a season of tough decisions and, for many, painful rejections. 

In this episode, you’ll discover

1. Three essential coping strategies to help your child process rejection in a healthy way.

2. What NOT to do when your child faces disappointment—and how to avoid common parental missteps that make your child feel WORSE when facing rejection

3.  A powerful real-life story of resilience that proves rejection can be a stepping stone to growth, not a roadblock.

Press play now to learn how to turn rejection into an opportunity for growth—and give your child the lifelong gift of resilience, confidence, and self-trust.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Is your boss constantly demanding more while offering little support or recognition?
If their negativity is draining your confidence, it’s time to shift the way you respond.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
1. How to stop taking your boss’s behavior personally—because it’s not about you.
2. A mindset shift that frees up your mental energy and puts you back in control.
3. Practical tools to build self-validation and confidence, no matter who’s in charge.
Press play now to learn how to reclaim your confidence and career growth—even if your boss never changes!

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Have you ever stepped into a new—whether at work, in your community, or in your personal life—only to feel like an imposter?

Don’t let "imposter syndrome"  take over and crush this great opportunity.

In this episode you’ll discover:
1.    Why the term “imposter syndrome” is outdated and how it may be holding you back.

2. Three proven coping skills to reduce anxiety and step into new roles with confidence.

3. How a simple growth map can transform self-doubt into structured learning and professional success.

Hit play now to learn how to replace imposter syndrome with a mindset that fosters confidence, resilience, and growth in midlife so you can enjoy your new opportunity!

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Feeling  overwhelmed by anxiety?
Discover  five powerful words that can help you move from chaos to calm and help you  make better decisions in your daily life.
In this episode, you’ll discover
1. How to recognize and shift from mental chaos or rigidity to a state of calm flow.
2. Discover actionable steps to re-regulate your body and observe your mind for           better  emotional control and decision making.
3. Hear real-life examples of how the FACES framework transforms anxious reactions into  actions aligned with your desires and values.
Press play now to learn how to regain clarity, avoid regrets, and stay aligned with your values using the FACES model.

Check out this awesome one pager that summarizes this episode:
https://mjmurrayvachon.com/podcast-1/

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Have you ever felt like anxiety hijacks your day, leaving you overwhelmed and disconnected from peace?

Anxiety can strike at any moment—whether it’s an email, a text, or an unexpected life challenge—and derail your calm. 

In this episode you’ll discover: 

1. The transformative practice of noticing, naming, and taming anxiety to break free from overwhelming thoughts.
2. How to harness the power of your breath to reset your nervous system and restore clarity.
3. The "river of wellness" metaphor to understand your mind’s natural flow and navigate challenges with confidence.

Listen now to unlock the tools you need to calm your anxiety and create a more peaceful, focused state of mind.

Check out my one pager for this episode: https://mjmurrayvachon.com/podcast-1

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

What if the most meaningful Valentine’s gift you could give your partner also turned out to be the best gift you could give yourself?

Whether you're feeling disconnected from your partner or caught up in midlife expectations, this episode provides a practical path to creating deeper love and connection.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

1. How to embrace your partner's quirks and imperfections to cultivate a stronger bond.

2. Easy mindfulness techniques to neutralize judgment and foster emotional courage.

3. How one mindset shift  can transform your focus from "what's missing" to gratitude for "what is."

Tune in now to explore this no cost way to deepen your connection and love with your partner and yourself this Valentine’s Day. 

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

What if the most meaningful Valentine’s Day gift you could give this year doesn’t cost a penny—and could transform your relationship?

In midlife, juggling work, family, and daily stress often leaves little time for meaningful connection. Traditional Valentine’s gifts like roses and chocolates might check the box, but they rarely spark lasting connection.

By listening to this episode, you’ll discover:

1.     A transformative mindset to deepen connection, spark joy, and foster greater  acceptance in your midlife relationship.

2.     How to overcome common challenges like negativity and judgment in your partnership.

3.     Practical strategies to creating a stronger, more peaceful connection with your partner.

Tune in now to discover how one simple mindset shift can transform your Valentine’s Day and revitalize your relationship—no wrapping paper required!

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Is President Trump & Elon Musk governing style making you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or on high alert, you're not alone.  

In this emergency episode, we address how to care for your mind in unpredictable times and regain a sense of calm—even when the world feels chaotic.

In this episode, you’ll discover: 

1. Five powerful coping strategies to reduce anxiety and regain control of your mental well-being.

2. Learn how to manage your news intake, incorporate movement into your routine, and choose projects that restore your sense of control.

3. Find out why meditation is key—even when your mind won’t stop racing.

Press play now to learn practical, therapist-approved ways to calm your mind and navigate uncertainty with resilience.

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Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Have you ever found yourself caught in frustration over someone else’s choices?

 Whether it’s your partner glued to their phone or a coworker missing deadlines, other people's behavior can trigger anxiety and stress.

In this episode you’ll discover:

1. Why letting go of control over others often brings up unexpected emotions—and how to address them.
2. Practical strategies to move from “Let Them” to “Let Me,” shifting your focus inward for personal growth and clarity.
3. How shifting your focus from others' onto yourself can help you achieve growth and clarity in your relationships

Take back your emotional energy today—press play and discover how the “Let Them” mindset can help you create more calm and control in your life!

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Have you ever found yourself drained by trying to control other people’s decisions, only to realize it doesn’t work? 

What if two simple words could change that and bring you more peace?

In this episode you’ll discover:

1. How the "Let Them" mindset can help you stop wasting energy on things outside your control, fostering inner peace.
2. Learn practical steps to pause, breathe, and refocus your energy to better manage your emotions and priorities.
3. How releasing judgment can lead to compassion, better relationships, and a greater sense of calm.

Take back your emotional energy today—press play and discover how the “Let Them” mindset can help you create more calm and control in your life!

Send us a text

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About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Struggling to stay consistent with your exercise goals?
What if you could conquer the three biggest obstacles that hold you back?

In this episode you’ll discover:

1. How to face the "I don't want to exercise" mindset with practical tools to stay committed.

2. Why patience, not quick results, leads to long-term success

3. How to distinguish between genuine rest and excuses, so you can build consistency without risking burnout.

Hit play to unlock proven strategies for tackling your fitness obstacles and setting yourself up for less anxiety and a calmer 2025!!

Send us a text

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About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

In the New Year, are you tired of feeling stuck on the couch and longing for a way to embrace exercise—even if you’ve always hated it?

In this episode, you’ll discover:

1. A midlife mindset update to see yourself as someone who exercises to decrease anxiety and improve  your health. 
2. How to choose movements you genuinely enjoy—no spandex required.
3. Practical tips to find the time and energy for exercise, even on your busiest days.

 Tune in now to learn how small, joyful steps can transform your relationship with exercise and help you embrace a healthier, happier midlife.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Do you ever feel like your smartphone is outsmarting you? 
Want to gain two more hours in your day and decrease your anxiety?

In this episode, you'll discover: 

1.  How the simple 3-step ACT plan can strengthen connections with yourself and others while easing tensions between parents and children over phone use.
2. Why creating daily phone-free time can boost your mental health, productivity, and relationships.
3. The simple but powerful habit of keeping phones out of your bedroom for better sleep and a more energized start to your day.

Press play now to uncover a proven three-step strategy to outsmart your smartphone and regain control of your mental, physical, and relational health.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Is your smartphone  increasing your anxiety, decreasing your focus, and preventing you from being productive and happy? 
Discover the surprising science behind its impact—and how to take control.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

1. How excessive phone use rewires your brain, diminishing your ability to focus and enjoy everyday activities.
2. The hidden ways your phone affects your sleep, relationships, and overall health—and why it’s more than just a matter of willpower.
3. How understanding the science behind cell phones can motivate you to adopt the ACT plan, helping you gain the benefits of your phone while reducing its negative impacts. (Ep. 118)

Take back control of your health, relationships, and life—press play now to uncover the science of outsmarting your smartphone!

Outsmarting Your Smartphone – The Science and Solutions You Need To Decrease Anxiety & Increase Midlife Calm

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

How do you navigate the overwhelming emotions that come with hearing bad news in today’s world?

Without the right tools to process these challenges, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed, hopeless, or even numb.

 In this episode you’ll discover: 

1. A powerful three-step plan to process bad news while maintaining emotional balance.
2. Practical tips for limiting and balancing your news consumption to protect your mental health.
3. Inspiring ways to channel your energy into small acts of kindness, decreasing your anxiety and creating a positive ripple effect in your community.

Take charge of your emotional well-being and discover how to manage bad news with calm and compassion—press play now!

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Are you heart broken and overwhelmed by the wild fires in Los Angelos?
What if a simple five-minute meditation could help you transform those feelings into calm and compassion?
In this episode you’ll discover: 

1. A simple guided, five-minute meditation to calm anxiety and re-regulate your nervous system when bad news feels overwhelming.
2. How to process difficult emotions like sadness and fear while creating space for inner peace.
3. How to cultivate compassion and connection by sending healing thoughts to those affected, all while grounding your own well-being.

Listen now to discover a simple and effective meditation that helps you navigate overwhelming emotions, bringing calm and connection when the world feels too heavy.

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.

Do you find yourself constantly battling obstacles that make losing weight feel impossible?

In this episode you’ll discover: 

1. How to stay focused on your weight loss journey, even in a world designed to tempt you.
2. Creative, time-saving, and budget-friendly approaches to meal prep and healthy eating.
3. Explore solutions for menopause and mental health related challenges so you can transform emotional eating into healthier habits.

Listen now to empower yourself with proven strategies for overcoming weight loss obstacles and reclaiming your wellness journey!

Send us a text

****

About the Host:
MJ Murray Vachon LCSW is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 48,000 hours of therapy sessions and 31 years of experience teaching her Mental Wellness curriculum, Inner Challenge. Four years ago she overcame her fear of technology to create a podcast that integrated her vast clinical experience and practical wisdom of cultivating mental wellness using the latest information from neuroscience. MJ was Social Worker of the Year in 2011 for Region 2/IN.

Creating Midlife Calm is a podcast designed to guide you through the challenges of midlife, tackling issues like anxiety, low self-esteem, feeling unworthy, procrastination, and isolation, while offering strategies for improving relationships, family support, emotional wellbeing, mental wellness, and parenting, with a focus on mindfulness, stress management, coping skills, and personal growth to stop rumination, overthinking, and increase confidence through self-care, emotional healing, and mental health support.