Asking for a Friend - Health, Fitness & Personal Growth Tips for Women in Midlife – Details, episodes & analysis

I received a request from a listener to cover the topic of challenging relationships with adult children, and I was floored to get many responses from other listeners who were also having similar issues with grown kids. On this week's episode, I sit down with the esteemed Dr. Gail Saltz, a clinical associate professor of psychiatry and psychoanalyst, columnist, bestselling author, and television commentator. 

You know the old saying, bigger kids, bigger problems. Ever wondered how to manage adult children who seem to repeat regrettable choices? We cover that and much more, offering practical advice on developing adult-adult relationships and balancing empathy with self-care. 

Dr. Saltz brings her vast expertise in family dynamics to the forefront, addressing the emotional toll of parenting adult children while offering actionable steps to handle issues like substance abuse and mental illness. We dig into the necessity of setting boundaries, fostering resilience, and the complexity of maintaining authentic relationships while protecting the privacy of our children and family dynamics.

Lastly, Dr. Saltz tackles the sensitive subject of suicidal ideation, emphasizing the power of open communication and the hope offered by treatment options. We discuss how to encourage grown children to become independent, the psychological hurdles they face, and the impact on long-term relationships when resentment is present. 

This episode is packed with compassion, expert insights, and real-world strategies to help you navigate the intricate landscape of midlife challenges, relationships, and mental health. 

Don't forget to leave your reviews on Spotify or Apple to help others find "Asking for a Friend"!

You can find Dr. Gail Saltz at:
https://drgailsaltz.com/
Check out her website above to find the many books she has written
https://www.instagram.com/drgailsaltz/
https://www.facebook.com/GailSaltz
Podcasts:
Personology
How Can I Help
The Power of Different

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Are you ready to reclaim your midlife body and health? I went through my own personal journey through menopause, the struggle with midsection weight gain, and feeling run-down. Faster Way, a transformative six-week group program, set me on the path to sustainable change. I'd love to work with you! Let me help you reach your health and fitness goals.
https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=MicheleFolan

Have questions about Faster Way? Please email me at:
mfolanfasterway@gmail.com

After trying countless products that overpromised and underdelivered, RIMAN skincare finally gave me real, visible results—restoring my glow, firmness, and confidence in my skin at 61. RIMAN Korea's #1 Skincare Line - https://michelefolan.riman.com

*Transcripts are done with AI and may not be perfectly accurate.

**This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

We speak to entrepreneur Lisa Woodruff, CEO of Organize 365, who shares her inspiring journey from teacher and stay-at-home mom to organizational expert. Learn how she conquered challenges and built a thriving business dedicated to helping people rediscover the joy in a well-organized home.

Our discussion dives deep into the mental toll disorganization can take on your life. Lisa and I explore the pressures of living up to society's picture-perfect home ideals, often leading to feelings of inadequacy and isolation. We emphasize the importance of functional organization over aesthetics and introduce actionable strategies to reduce anxiety and cognitive load. Learn about the transformative power of structures like the Friday Workbox and Sunday Basket that make invisible tasks visible and manageable, enhancing productivity and freeing up time for self-care and personal activities.

We don't stop there. From tackling the "Sunday Scaries" to balancing professional and domestic responsibilities, this episode is packed with insights to help you lead a more organized and fulfilling life. Discover how evolving roles within the family and embracing organizational systems can serve as powerful forms of self-care. We also delve into the importance of maintaining a serene, clutter-free environment for mental well-being. Tune in for practical tips that will inspire you to create a balanced, peaceful home and life.

You can find Lisa Woodruff and Organize 365 at:
https://organize365.com/
https://www.instagram.com/organize365/
https://www.facebook.com/Organize365
Her very popular Organize 365 Podcast can be found wherever you get your podcasts

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Are you ready to reclaim your midlife body and health? I went through my own personal journey through menopause, the struggle with midsection weight gain, and feeling run-down. Faster Way, a transformative six-week group program, set me on the path to sustainable change. I'd love to work with you! Let me help you reach your health and fitness goals.
https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=MicheleFolan

Have questions about Faster Way? Please email me at:
mfolanfasterway@gmail.com

After trying countless products that overpromised and underdelivered, RIMAN skincare finally gave me real, visible results—restoring my glow, firmness, and confidence in my skin at 61. RIMAN Korea's #1 Skincare Line - https://michelefolan.riman.com

*Transcripts are done with AI and may not be perfectly accurate.

**This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

Ready to transform your midlife health and fitness journey? Join us as we explore the incredible transformation of Sarah Bradley, a certified integrative nutrition health coach and Faster Way coach. Sarah shares her compelling story of transitioning from a finance career to her current passion, emphasizing the importance of sustainable fitness and nutrition plans for women in their 40s and beyond. You’ll be inspired by her personal experiences and practical advice on maintaining weight loss through life's significant changes, and how mutual support can help achieve long-term wellness goals.

Discover the transformative power of eliminating sugar and processed foods from your diet. Sarah and Michele dive into the science behind reducing inflammation and improving health issues like Alzheimer's and migraines. We discuss actionable strategies for clean eating, even while traveling, and the critical role of protein and fiber in daily nutrition. Learn about intentional eating, macro tracking, and how focusing on balanced nutrition can lead to optimal health and lasting results.

Sarah also shares her top self-care routines and clean eating hacks that are easy to implement. From morning walks to creative grocery store tips, she offers practical advice that can benefit your entire family. Follow Sarah on Instagram for more grandparent-approved health tips and food shopping advice, and listen to this episode packed with valuable insights to help you achieve a healthier, happier lifestyle.

You can find Sarah Bradley on Instagram @sarah.k.bradley
Facebook Sarah K. Bradley

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Are you ready to reclaim your midlife body and health? I went through my own personal journey through menopause, the struggle with midsection weight gain, and feeling run-down. Faster Way, a transformative six-week group program, set me on the path to sustainable change. I'd love to work with you! Let me help you reach your health and fitness goals.
https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=MicheleFolan

Have questions about Faster Way? Please email me at:
mfolanfasterway@gmail.com

After trying countless products that overpromised and underdelivered, RIMAN skincare finally gave me real, visible results—restoring my glow, firmness, and confidence in my skin at 61. RIMAN Korea's #1 Skincare Line - https://michelefolan.riman.com

*Transcripts are done with AI and may not be perfectly accurate.

**This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

When I think of a girls' trip, my mind goes to a sandy destination with the latest beach read or sitting on floaties in a lake chatting for hours with my besties from college.  What if you had an opportunity to hike to Machu Picchu or walk the Camino in Spain with a group of women, who are seeking new experiences, goals and passions, enabling them to step out of their comfort zone for real personal growth?

After a long and successful career as an executive in the travel industry, Sally Bassett took sixteen women on an adventure in Peru, a trek of 28 miles over four mountain passes to Machu Picchu.  Since 1995, Women for Adventure has been a catalyst in bringing hundreds of women together on trips worldwide.  The organization is also very philanthropic, giving back and supporting programs for the enrichment of young girls called Girls for Success.  We love that!

Sally’s passion toward life, creative nature, and spiritual approach have been keys to her success.  She has led groups to over 120 countries as a result of her 40+ year career in the travel industry where she went from flight attendant to CEO.  Her favorite quote is by Helen Keller, “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing at all.”

You can just feel Sally's excitement and energy coming through in this podcast!  She was a delightful guest who loves people, has a zest for life and a can-do attitude.   

If would like to find out more about upcoming trips or you would like to start a local chapter of Women for Adventure, there is information on the website.  

https://www.womenforadventure.com/
For men inclusive trips and gentle yoga videos:
https://www.peacethroughyoga.org/

Sally Bassett can be reached at sally@peacethroughyoga.org

Follow Asking for a Friend Pod on Facebook or @askingforafriend_pod on Instagram

Please rate and review the podcast.  Reviews help us grow!

_________________________________________
Are you ready to reclaim your midlife body and health? I went through my own personal journey through menopause, the struggle with midsection weight gain, and feeling run-down. Faster Way, a transformative six-week group program, set me on the path to sustainable change. I'd love to work with you! Let me help you reach your health and fitness goals.
https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=MicheleFolan

Have questions about Faster Way? Please email me at:
mfolanfasterway@gmail.com

After trying countless products that overpromised and underdelivered, RIMAN skincare finally gave me real, visible results—restoring my glow, firmness, and confidence in my skin at 61. RIMAN Korea's #1 Skincare Line - https://michelefolan.riman.com

*Transcripts are done with AI and may not be perfectly accurate.

**This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

No pun intended with the title.  I actually am on the short side and sometimes not so sweet!  As we wrap up season one of the podcast, I wanted to do a little check-in as to how things are going so far and to provide a quick peak into what is in the works for season two.  

I am very grateful for this audience and the engagement!  We have listeners in 28 countries and over 550 cities, and I did not think that was possible in four short months.  

So what is happening in season two you ask?   Here is a small sampling of shows in the works:

• Former travel company exec starts an all-women travel and adventure organization
• The Bone Coach - osteoporosis and bone health
• Managing perimenopause and menopause through an integrative health and wellness approach
• Our sexual health through midlife
• The Mindful Midlife Crisis
• Our resident sex and relationship therapist will be making a return to the show

Thank you, as always, for listening and please be sure to follow Asking for a Friend Pod on Facebook and Instagram @askingforafriend_pod

Would you be so kind to review the show if available?

_________________________________________
Are you ready to reclaim your midlife body and health? I went through my own personal journey through menopause, the struggle with midsection weight gain, and feeling run-down. Faster Way, a transformative six-week group program, set me on the path to sustainable change. I'd love to work with you! Let me help you reach your health and fitness goals.
https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=MicheleFolan

Have questions about Faster Way? Please email me at:
mfolanfasterway@gmail.com

After trying countless products that overpromised and underdelivered, RIMAN skincare finally gave me real, visible results—restoring my glow, firmness, and confidence in my skin at 61. RIMAN Korea's #1 Skincare Line - https://michelefolan.riman.com

*Transcripts are done with AI and may not be perfectly accurate.

**This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

When our children are born we may have in our mind a pre-written story of hopes and dreams of how their lives may play out.  Perhaps you envision your son or daughter becoming a doctor or architect, and they choose to be a dancer or follow their dream of becoming a chef.  Sometimes they choose a different path than what we imagined for them.  What if your child identifies as a different gender or gay?  What if both of your kids identify as LGBTQ+?  

In episode 18 of the podcast, Holly Bridgers shares the journey of her children, Georgia and Hope, and the process of how she came to terms with her story not playing out exactly as she had planned.  This was such a heartfelt and honest interview, and I thank Holly, Georgia and Hope for allowing us to have a peak inside of their loving LGBTQ+ family.  

In this episode Holly and I discuss:

• The childhood years and the coming-out process
• Coming to terms with identifying LGBTQ+
• Navigating social norms, labels and nomenclatures
• How to support your LGBTQ+ children
• Georgia and Hope's social media presence
• Holly's words of support to other LGBTQ+ families

If there are LGBTQ+ young adults in your life, and they would like to be part of a supportive community, here are Georgia and Hopes social media pages:
Georgia Bridgers on YouTube
Georgia Bridger's Podcast On My Mind @onmymindpod
Instagram @georgiabridgers
Hope Bridgers on Instagram @hopebridgers
Twitter @hope_bridgers

Follow Asking for a Friend Pod on Facebook or @askingforafriend_pod on Instagram
Please review and rate the show where possible!  Reviews and sharing help us grow.

_________________________________________
Are you ready to reclaim your midlife body and health? I went through my own personal journey through menopause, the struggle with midsection weight gain, and feeling run-down. Faster Way, a transformative six-week group program, set me on the path to sustainable change. I'd love to work with you! Let me help you reach your health and fitness goals.
https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=MicheleFolan

Have questions about Faster Way? Please email me at:
mfolanfasterway@gmail.com

After trying countless products that overpromised and underdelivered, RIMAN skincare finally gave me real, visible results—restoring my glow, firmness, and confidence in my skin at 61. RIMAN Korea's #1 Skincare Line - https://michelefolan.riman.com

*Transcripts are done with AI and may not be perfectly accurate.

**This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

With midlife comes some evident changes such as loss of muscle mass, brain fog and diminished energy, to name a few.  We are quick to attribute these to  menopause and a decrease in hormones, but it's not always!  As women age we are prone to nutritional deficiencies, and we have higher micronutrient needs.  Could eating more mindfully be the answer?

Nutritionist, Maryann Jacobsen, has written many books on nutrition geared toward children and families, but as she approached her midlife years, Maryann started to feel that she needed to address her own health and diet, and that is when her research began on women, the aging process and the impact of the food we eat.  She doesn't follow the trends, but rather assumes a practical approach based on real science.  I can't wait to read the book she is currently writing on women and midlife nutrition!

This was such an eye opening interview!  I have re-written my weekly shopping list, and I am reassessing how and when I eat.

In this episode Maryann and I discuss:

• It's not just menopause 
• Important biomarkers - iron, vitamin D and B12 levels, thyroid and cholesterol
• Free Women's Biomarker Guide available at www.maryannjacobsen.com
• Magnesium food sources - nuts, seeds, leafy greens
• Maintaining body mass - resistance training and protein - how much do we really need?  1.2 grams/kg of body weight or roughly 25 -30 gams per meal
• Leucine is also important - eggs, chicken, salmon, nuts, cottage cheese, Greek yogurt
• Nitric oxide - responsible for heart health and circulation, increased exercise performance and recovery
• Food sources for nitric oxide - leafy greens, celery, beets, meat
• Real food is always the safest option but there are nitric oxide supplements such as Super Beets and Neo 40 - always check with your healthcare provider before adding supplements to your diet
• Synthesis of nitric oxide begins in the mouth - antibacterial toothpastes and mouthwashes kill the good bacteria - Maryann recommends Revitin toothpaste - available at Revitin.com and other retailers
• The importance of choline - brain fog anyone?   Sources - eggs, meat, fish, nuts, cruciferous veggies
• Keto and Intermittent Fasting - Maryann's thoughts

Maryann Jacobsen's books are available on Amazon 
Follow Maryann on Instagram @midlife.strong
Private Facebook page can be joined at The Midlife Strong Community - for women o

_________________________________________
Are you ready to reclaim your midlife body and health? I went through my own personal journey through menopause, the struggle with midsection weight gain, and feeling run-down. Faster Way, a transformative six-week group program, set me on the path to sustainable change. I'd love to work with you! Let me help you reach your health and fitness goals.
https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=MicheleFolan

Have questions about Faster Way? Please email me at:
mfolanfasterway@gmail.com

After trying countless products that overpromised and underdelivered, RIMAN skincare finally gave me real, visible results—restoring my glow, firmness, and confidence in my skin at 61. RIMAN Korea's #1 Skincare Line - https://michelefolan.riman.com

*Transcripts are done with AI and may not be perfectly accurate.

**This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

Coming from a family of physicians, Mona Foad had always wanted to be a doctor, until she fell in love with art history in college.  While she loved her job at the Smithsonian, Mona realized she was missing the ability to really touch people.  Another degree and medical school brought her to the world of dermatology, where she gets to treat the whole patient with her medical skill and her love of beautiful aesthetics.

In this episode Mona Foad, MD and I discuss:
Her GRASS philosophy
Growth factors - Skin Medica is her favorite - these contain cell signaling proteins
Retinoids - Tretinoin works more quickly but may be more drying than Retinol - start slowly
Antioxidants - Vitamin C - make sure it is l-ascorbic acid 10-15%
Sunscreen - See below
Specialty Products - Hyaluronic acid

Mona says everyone should be wearing a UVA/UVB sunscreen.  UVA are the aging rays and UVB are the burning rays.  Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are preferred.
Some of her favorites cosmetically elegant brands:
Elta MD
Colorescience (They also make a powder sunscreen that is not greasy - loved by golfers)
Skin Medica
Alastin (They make a tinted sunscreen with iron oxide - great for melasma)

Dermatologic Procedures:
Botox and Fillers
Tightening Procedures - radio frequency, laser, ultrasound and threading

Follow Mona Dermatology at:
www.monadermatology.com
Instagram @monadermatology
Facebook at Mona Dermatology

Follow Asking for a Friend on social media on Facebook and Instagram @askingforafriend_pod

Please leave a review!  Reviews and sharing help us grow.

_________________________________________
Are you ready to reclaim your midlife body and health? I went through my own personal journey through menopause, the struggle with midsection weight gain, and feeling run-down. Faster Way, a transformative six-week group program, set me on the path to sustainable change. I'd love to work with you! Let me help you reach your health and fitness goals.
https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=MicheleFolan

Have questions about Faster Way? Please email me at:
mfolanfasterway@gmail.com

After trying countless products that overpromised and underdelivered, RIMAN skincare finally gave me real, visible results—restoring my glow, firmness, and confidence in my skin at 61. RIMAN Korea's #1 Skincare Line - https://michelefolan.riman.com

*Transcripts are done with AI and may not be perfectly accurate.

**This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

As our skin changes the make-up that we may have used five or ten years ago, may not be serving us as well, and it may be time to change things up a bit.  But in midlife we want to keep things simple, and some makeup tutorials can look intimidating and overwhelming.  

When Beth Oliveri was about to become an empty nester, she wondered what she was going to do with all this new free time.  She decided to take her passion for makeup and beauty products and dip her toe into the world of social media.  Beth stepped out of her comfort zone and amassed an impressive Instagram following by being her authentic self, refreshingly wrinkled and filter free.

In this episode Beth and I discuss:
-Makeup tips for mature skin - do's and don'ts
-Power vs. cream-based foundations and blusher
-Eyeliner and eyebrow tips
-Lipliner - then and now
-Beth's favorite beauty products
-Stepping out of your comfort zone to create and follow your passion

Beth Oliveri's beauty favorites:
Tretinoin (Retin-A) three times per week - important to use sunscreen!
Zo Skincare - medical grade skincare
Essence waterproof mascara - around $4.99 and available everywhere
She also likes Thrive mascara at $26 - also waterproof
IT - CC Cream foundation
Revlon Tattoo eyebrow gel
Lash Food eyelash serum

Makeup lines Beth loves:
Seint - can be purchased through Beth 
Gorgio Armani - a little pricier
Ayu by Suzie O'Neill

To get a color match for Seint Cosmetics:
Follow Beth Oliveri @refreshinglywrinkledfilterfree on Instagram and click the link or
email at ajjomom@gmail.com

Follow Asking for a Friend @askingforafriend_pod or on Facebook

_________________________________________
Are you ready to reclaim your midlife body and health? I went through my own personal journey through menopause, the struggle with midsection weight gain, and feeling run-down. Faster Way, a transformative six-week group program, set me on the path to sustainable change. I'd love to work with you! Let me help you reach your health and fitness goals.
https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=MicheleFolan

Have questions about Faster Way? Please email me at:
mfolanfasterway@gmail.com

After trying countless products that overpromised and underdelivered, RIMAN skincare finally gave me real, visible results—restoring my glow, firmness, and confidence in my skin at 61. RIMAN Korea's #1 Skincare Line - https://michelefolan.riman.com

*Transcripts are done with AI and may not be perfectly accurate.

**This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

We all know we should strive to get 7-9 hours of sleep per night, but fewer than two-thirds of women actually get that much sleep.   While the number of hours of slumber is very important, sleep quality is vital for top performance during the day.  Research has shown that women experience lower quality of sleep than men.

Dr. Raj Dasgupta is a quadruple board certified MD, who specializes in sleep.  His energy and passion for helping his patients is palpable!

In this episode Dr. Raj and I discuss:
- How much sleep do we really need 
- The impact of perimenopause and menopause and the estrogen connection
- Dietary supplements
- The role of sunlight
- Obstructive sleep apnea and chronic insomnia
- Cognitive behavioral therapy and sleep hygiene tips

You can follow Dr. Raj Dasgupta on Instagram @dr_raj_  or Facebook Raj Dasgupta MD

Dr. Raj Podcast
Inside the Boards Podcast

Follow Asking for a Friend on Instagram @askingforafriend_pod or on Facebook

_________________________________________
Are you ready to reclaim your midlife body and health? I went through my own personal journey through menopause, the struggle with midsection weight gain, and feeling run-down. Faster Way, a transformative six-week group program, set me on the path to sustainable change. I'd love to work with you! Let me help you reach your health and fitness goals.
https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=MicheleFolan

Have questions about Faster Way? Please email me at:
mfolanfasterway@gmail.com

After trying countless products that overpromised and underdelivered, RIMAN skincare finally gave me real, visible results—restoring my glow, firmness, and confidence in my skin at 61. RIMAN Korea's #1 Skincare Line - https://michelefolan.riman.com

*Transcripts are done with AI and may not be perfectly accurate.

**This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.