Are you holding onto old patterns that no longer serve you—and wondering if it’s too late to change? In this episode, we explore the powerful idea that transformation is always possible, no matter your age or history. In this episode, I sit down with bestselling author and inspirational teacher Caren Paskel to talk about what it really means to believe in yourself in midlife—and how that belief can radically shift your health, your energy, and your entire life direction. Caren’s story is a deeply moving example of growth through adversity. From identifying as a shy, introverted child to becoming a dynamic speaker and retreat leader, she shares how self-belief became her foundation—especially after the profound loss of her soulmate and husband.

Caren Paskel is a best-selling author, speaker, and founder of Caren Paskel Self-Evolution, Youthful Longevity Yoga Training and Retreat™, and the Self-Evolution Education (S.E.E.) Foundation. A master in Vedanta philosophy and a lifelong yoga practitioner—starting her growth journey at just 16—Caren has dedicated her career to guiding individuals toward holistic transformation, empowerment, and self-mastery. With decades of experience in yoga and spiritual education, she provides a practical roadmap for integrating ancient wisdom into modern life.

A firm believer in the power of mentorship and collective energy, Caren has inspired thousands through her Self-Evolution courses, retreats, and books, including The Power of Self-Belief. Her teachings focus on the eternal values of life, the path of yoga to self-realization, and the importance of breaking free from small thinking to step into one’s highest potential.

In this episode:

• What it really means to believe in your higher self—not just your personality
• The connection between self-belief and healthy aging
• Why changing your “paradigm” is essential for long-term well-being
• How proximity to inspiring people can spark your own inner transformation
• The difference between self-esteem and true self-belief
• How Caren’s caregiving journey became a catalyst for spiritual growth
• Lessons from yoga philosophy that helped her move through grief and rebuild

Resources Mentioned:

• Learn more about Caren’s retreats and education foundation: https://carenpaskel.com
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/carenpaskelselfevolution/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caren-paskel/
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@carenpaskelyoga6711
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carenpaskel/

Connect with me, Dr. Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

Are you feeling overwhelmed by sudden bursts of rage—and wondering if it’s just you? You’re not alone. Many midlife women experience emotional intensity that seems to come out of nowhere. That fiery anger, the kind that feels like it’s bubbling just beneath the surface, isn’t just in your head—and it might be telling you something important.

In this episode, I’m joined by my friend and business coach, Bailey Feldman, as we unpack the rising rage so many women experience in their 30s and 40s. We get honest about what it feels like, where it comes from (hint: it’s not just hormones), and what you can actually do to feel more balanced and in control. Whether you're in full-blown perimenopause or just starting to notice shifts, this conversation is your invitation to get curious—not critical—about what your body and emotions are trying to say.

In this episode:

• Why rage is more common than you think in your 30s and 40s
• What Chinese medicine says about emotional buildup (hello, liver Qi stagnation)
• How hormonal shifts start before perimenopause officially begins
• Lifestyle habits and mindset shifts that can smooth emotional edges
• The role of acupuncture, herbal support, and gentle liver detox
• Why we need community—and how multi-generational spaces can support healing
• The importance of pushing back on the “just survive it” mindset

 Resources Mentioned:

• Learn more about acupuncture and holistic hormone support: risingwomanproject.com
• Bailey’s community space for women: Fount + Flourish
• Fount + Flourish Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefount_co 
• Bailey’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/baileyfeldman_ 

Connect with me, Dr. Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

Are you overwhelmed by the sheer number of supplements filling your cabinet—and unsure if any of them are actually helping? In this solo episode, I'm tackling the issue of "supplement overload," a common challenge many midlife women face in their quest for better health.

Join me as I share why more supplements aren't always better, how to determine what your body truly needs, and the critical importance of personalization when selecting supplements. We'll discuss the common mistakes women make, how to navigate the confusing world of supplements and influencers, and why a holistic strategy—including diet, lifestyle changes, and mindful self-care—is essential for lasting health.

If you're ready to simplify your supplement routine, save money, and enhance your well-being with targeted, effective solutions, this episode is for you!

In this episode:

• Why supplement overload is common—and how to avoid it
• How to identify the right supplements specifically tailored for your unique needs
• The truth about magnesium: why it's essential, and how to choose the right type
• Understanding supplement safety to prevent accidental overdose (especially vitamins A & D)
• The real risks of self-diagnosis through online research
• Why supplements should complement, not replace, healthy lifestyle practices
• How a functional medicine approach uncovers the root cause of fatigue, gut health issues, and energy challenges

Resources Mentioned:

• Grab your free resource with tips to support yourself in midlife: https://risingwomanproject.com 

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my upcoming wellness retreat in Panama: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

What if you could make peace with food and your body once and for all?

Special guest Elizabeth Harris is here to talk all things intuitive eating in this episode of the Midlife Rise + Thrive podcast. She’s teaching us what intuitive eating is, the value of gentle nutrition, and why she’s working to shift the focus of health away from weight. 

If you’ve heard of intuitive eating and wondered what it’s all about or thought it sounded great but couldn’t imagine how it could actually work, Elizabeth is busting misconceptions about intuitive eating and teaching us how it really works. 

Elizabeth Harris is a dietitian, intuitive eating counselor, entrepreneur, and co-host of the podcast Wellness: Rebranded. She's passionate about empowering women to opt out of diet culture and reimagine their relationships with food, movement, and their bodies. 


Topics covered in this episode include:

• What intuitive eating is 
• Why we are vulnerable to weight stigma in midlife 
• How to shift your beliefs away from diet culture 
• Why weight isn’t the best indicator of health

If you’re curious about intuitive eating and how to move on from diet culture forever, this episode is for you.

All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!

Resources Mentioned:

Visit Elizabeth’s Website: https://elizabethharrisnutrition.com/

Listen to the Wellness: Rebranded Podcast: https://elizabethharrisnutrition.com/podcast

Join the Health & Healing With Intuitive Eating Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/healthandhealingwithintuitiveeating

Get My Free Self Assessment Tool: risingwomanproject.com

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

Are you tired of annoying and uncomfortable symptoms that your doctor can't get to the bottom of? Looking for a solution besides being on hormones and antidepressants for the rest of your life?

Listen up, because I think you’ll be interested in this episode about how acupuncture, East Asian medicine, and functional medicine can help you through menopause. 

I brought in a pro, Heather Bergstrom, to teach us everything we need to know. She’s sharing her experience with frustrating symptoms and limited solutions, the five elements in Chinese medicine and how to use them to get to know your body, and how to start turning inwards and nourishing yourself. 

Heather Bergstrom has been a practitioner of East Asian medicine for over a decade and a practitioner of functional medicine for the last three years. Heather uses traditional wisdom and philosophy as well as current therapeutic understanding to navigate the physical, emotional, and spiritual challenges associated with the transition to menopause. 

Topics covered in this episode include:

• Listening to what your body is telling you 
• The five elements in Chinese medicine and how to use them
• Focusing on how to nourish yourself 

If you’re just finding out about East Asian and functional medicine and you’re wondering if they could be for you, this episode is a great place to start.

All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!


Resources Mentioned:

Visit Heather’s Website: www.vitalmatriarch.com

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

If you feel stressed about the changes happening to your body, you’re not alone. 


So many women have concerns about their bodies getting weaker in midlife, but the truth is there is so much you can do to strengthen your body no matter how active you’ve been before now. I promise it’s not too late! 


We’re lucky enough to be joined by Dr. Gina Hahn in this episode to teach us some simple and practical ways to get moving and get stronger. I wanted Gina to be one of my first guests on the podcast because of her unique approach to physical therapy and the connection between mind and body. Just wait until you hear the episode; you’re going to love her. 


She’s talking about how you hold stressors in your body, getting to know your body and look at the whole picture, how to strengthen different parts of your body, and so much more.


Dr. Gina Hahn is a licensed Doctor of Physical Therapy. She specializes in pelvic health and chronic pain. Her approach to physical rehab includes mindfulness training, behavior modification, strength and conditioning, and hands-on therapy.


Topics covered in this episode include:

• How stress manifests in our bodies 
• The benefits of deep breathing
• Keeping your body strong and healthy so that you can live the life you want

If getting active seems overwhelming to you right now, just start by listening to this episode. You’re already taking one small step in the right direction.


All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!



Resources Mentioned:

Visit Dr. Gina Hahn’s Website: www.performxtherapy.com 

Follow @performxtherapy on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/performxtherapy/ 

Follow Dr. Gina Hahn on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/performxtherapy 

Schedule a Complimentary Screening With Dr. Gina Hahn: https://calendly.com/performxtherapy/mom-baby 

Read The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel van der Kolk M.D: https://www.amazon.com/Body-Keeps-Score-Healing-Trauma/dp/0143127748 

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

What do you know about breathwork? Did you know that you can use it to regulate your body, nervous system, mood, digestion, and more?


If that sounds good to you, listen up! 


I’m so excited to be joined in this episode of Midlife Rise + Thrive by Trish Brewer. Trish is here to teach us the basics of breathwork. Think of this episode as Breathwork 101. It’s the class we all needed in school, and yet none of us got it. The good news is, it’s never too late to get started. 


Trish is sharing how breathwork can help you balance your nervous system and how that will benefit your mind and body in midlife. I’ve done this work myself and trust me, it’s good. 


As a trauma-informed Breathwork Coach, Reiki Master Teacher, and Intuitive Guide, Trish’s work is to create and hold space for you and to serve as your guide back to your whole self. Trish believes that when we allow ourselves to be supported, we expedite our own healing and self-discovery. She knows this to be true from her own experience. And when you work with Trish, she’ll meet you not just as a teacher, but also as a student.


Topics covered in this episode include:

• What breathwork can do for you as a woman in midlife 
• The different types of breathwork 
• The simple science behind breathwork 
• How to get started with breathwork 

If you’re interested in learning new ways to heal, this is for you.


All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!


Resources Mentioned:

Visit Trish’s Website: https://www.trishbrewer.com/

Follow @trishbrewerbreathwork on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trishbrewerbreathwork/

Follow Trish on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/trishdbrewerbreathwork/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

How much time are you spending relaxed vs. stressed?

Did you know that there’s a strong relationship between stress, hormones, and blood sugar levels? In our day and age, most of us are spending a lot more time in a stressed state than our bodies were prepared for, and it turns out that’s having some serious effects on our health. 

To help us understand what’s going on in our bodies, Dr. Erin Kinney is joining us in this episode. She’s teaching us what happens to our hormone and blood sugar levels when we’re stressed and sharing some practical tips to start integrating rest and relaxation into your life. 

Dr. Kinney is a naturopathic doctor and speaker specializing in helping men and women to improve their mood, balance their hormones, and increase their energy naturally.

Topics covered in this episode include:

• What causes dysregulation in your body 
• How stress can cause hormonal imbalances 
• The importance of rest and relaxation
• The role of cortisol in your body 

It’s time to start prioritizing relaxation so that your body can have a chance to regulate and keep you healthy. Tune in to get started. 

All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!

Resources Mentioned:

Follow @drkinney on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drkinney/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

Welcome to the first episode of the Midlife Rise + Thrive podcast. Are you ready to change the way you think about midlife?

If you’ve found this podcast, I’m guessing you’re looking for ways to improve your life. In this episode, we’re taking the first step. 

So often we feel out of balance but we don’t know how to fix it or where to start. That’s where the Wheel of Life comes in. In this episode, I’m teaching you what the Wheel of Life is and how you can use it to assess your happiness in different areas of your life. Once you’ve done that, it’s a lot easier to pinpoint what needs to change. 

Topics covered in this episode include:

• How to assess and reevaluate the way you’re living your life 
• What the Wheel of Life is 
• How to bridge the gap between the life you are living and the life you want to live
• What to expect from future episodes of Midlife Rise + Thrive 

Regardless of where you are on your journey, I’ve got you. Tune in to get started! 

All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!

Resources Mentioned:

Get the Freebie: risingwomanproject.com

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

If you’ve ever woken up exhausted, no matter how much sleep you get, or if you’re finding that midlife has left you feeling depleted, you are not alone. Fatigue can creep up on us in so many ways—through stress, hormones, poor sleep, or simply doing too much. In this episode, I’m sharing my personal journey with lifelong fatigue, how I’ve learned to manage it, and the strategies that have made the biggest difference in my energy levels.

This episode is a continuation of last week's conversation, but today, I’m focusing on sleep—what's working, what's not, and how I protect my energy every single day. If fatigue has been a struggle for you, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

In this episode:

• My personal experience with lifelong fatigue and how I’ve managed it over the years
• The connection between midlife, stress, and exhaustion—and why women often feel the brunt of it
• Sleep hygiene tips that actually work (including my top strategies for better rest!)
• How caffeine, nutrition, and supplements play a role in energy regulation
• How medicinal mushrooms, magnesium, and other supplements can support better energy and brain function
• The power of naps, yoga nidra, and other rest strategies to combat daily fatigue

Resources:

My go-to sleep meditation app: Insight Timer

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my upcoming retreat to Panama: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? Download Your Free Hot Sheet With The Top 3 Things You Can Do Today To Rise + Thrive! https://risingwomanproject.com/contact/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

If you're constantly feeling drained, like no amount of coffee or sleep can fix your exhaustion, you’re not alone. In this solo episode, I am sharing my insights into why midlife women often feel completely wiped out—and what to do about it.

We’re going beyond the usual “just get more sleep” advice and uncovering the real culprits behind midlife fatigue—hormonal shifts, stress overload, poor sleep quality, and even diet. I’ll break down what’s really going on in your body, why you might feel like you’re running on empty, and most importantly, actionable ways to reclaim your energy.

Learn more about my upcoming retreats here: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

In this episode:

• The hidden reasons why midlife exhaustion is so common
• How hormonal changes (especially progesterone, estrogen, and cortisol) impact your energy
• The connection between chronic stress, burnout, and fatigue
• Why sleep apnea is underdiagnosed in women—and how it could be affecting you
• The foods that boost vs. drain your energy (spoiler: you’re probably not getting enough protein!)
• How movement and strength training can revitalize your body without overworking it
• Why acupuncture and Chinese medicine can be game changers for energy and stress management
• Simple, realistic habits to start feeling better today

FREE RESOURCE: If you’re ready to go from exhausted to empowered, grab my free guide at RisingWomanProject.com and start taking control of your energy.

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my upcoming retreat to Panama: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? Download Your Free Hot Sheet With The Top 3 Things You Can Do Today To Rise + Thrive! https://risingwomanproject.com/contact/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

As women, we often carry the weight of multiple roles and responsibilities, sometimes without a space to exhale or process life’s overwhelming moments.

In this episode, I sit down with Trish, a trauma-informed breathwork coach and Reiki master, and Rebecca, a past retreat participant, to dive into the importance of community for women’s healing and empowerment. 

We discuss how retreats provide the opportunity to reset, reconnect with ourselves, and build supportive relationships with other women. Rebecca shares her experience of attending a retreat during a difficult time in her life and how it helped her regain balance, create lasting connections, and develop practices that continue to support her today.

If you're feeling the need to step away from the chaos and find clarity, this episode offers insights into how you can reclaim your peace through connection and intentional self-care.

Learn more about my upcoming retreats here: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

In this episode:

• Why community is crucial for women’s mental and emotional well-being
• What happens when we give ourselves permission to prioritize self-care
• The transformational power of stepping outside your comfort zone
• Tools like breathwork, yoga, and vision boards that foster healing
• How retreats can offer both structured activities and downtime for reflection
• Rebecca’s personal journey to healing and what she learned through retreat participation

Retreat Information:
Join us at the Rising Woman Retreat from April 26–28 in beautiful West Virginia. This weekend offers a blend of healing practices, including breathwork, yoga, wellness talks, and time for deep connection. You’ll also enjoy nourishing vegetarian meals, creative activities, and time to relax in nature. For more information and to reserve your spot, visit risingwomanproject.com.

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my upcoming retreat to Panama: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? Download Your Free Hot Sheet With The Top 3 Things You Can Do Today To Rise + Thrive! https://risingwomanproject.com/contact/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

After breaking down on her kitchen floor surrounded by crying babies, Katy knew something had to change. In this episode, she shares how meditation, self-care, and small shifts transformed her life—and how it can do the same for you.

Katy shares her powerful journey from anxiety and burnout to finding peace and purpose through meditation, sobriety, and self-discovery. With four kids, a demanding life, and societal pressures weighing her down, Katy hit a breaking point that ultimately led to profound transformation. She now guides women in midlife to reconnect with themselves through the practice of meditation, empowering them to shed the “shoulds” and live in alignment with their true needs.

We also discuss how retreats, like the one we’re co-hosting in Panama, provide an opportunity for deep healing, connection, and the creation of sustainable wellness habits. https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/panama-spring-2025-retreat-in-cambutal/

In this episode:

• Katy’s personal transformation through meditation and sobriety
• How meditation offers clarity and builds inner trust
• Why meditation doesn’t require perfection—and how to simplify the practice
• Overcoming societal pressures and redefining success on your own terms
• The importance of women’s circles and retreats for connection and healing
• Details about our upcoming wellness retreat in Panama (March 16-22)

Connect with Katy:

https://katyrexing.com/

https://www.instagram.com/katyrexing/

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my upcoming retreat to Panama: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? Download Your Free Hot Sheet With The Top 3 Things You Can Do Today To Rise + Thrive! https://risingwomanproject.com/contact/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

As women in midlife, we sometimes lose touch with our inner 'warrior goddess'—HeatherAsh Amara joins the podcast to share the roadmap to reignite that power and step into your fullest potential!

HeatherAsh shares her wisdom on balancing three key archetypes—wild, willing, and wise—to help us step into our fullest potential. This conversation is filled with insights on self-discovery, finding joy, and releasing perfectionism while embracing vulnerability.

Best-selling author, mentor, land steward, and philanthropist, HeatherAsh Amara has spent the last three decades weaving together earth-based wisdom, mindfulness, and practical strategies for creative, courageous, and compassionate individual and community change.

She is the author of 10 books, including the bestselling Warrior Goddess Training series (over 150 thousand sold; translated into 15 languages), The Seven Secrets of Happy and Healthy Relationships with don Miguel Ruiz Jr, Warrior Heart Practice, and the 2024 release Wild, Willing, Wise.When she’s home, HeatherAsh plants her feet in New Mexico, but as a lifelong nomad, she spends most of her time traveling, teaching, and writing in cafés around the world. 

In This Episode, We Discuss:

• The inspiration behind HeatherAsh’s new book Wild, Willing, and Wise and the three archetypes it explores.
• How imbalance in these archetypes can affect your life—and how to recalibrate them.
• Simple tools and exercises to bring more balance, spark joy, and reconnect with your inner wildness.
• Why self-intimacy and self-compassion are critical to personal growth and authentic relationships.
• How midlife transformation opens the door to reclaiming joy, freedom, and a renewed sense of self.
• Why these lessons aren’t just for midlife—how younger women can learn to embrace themselves earlier in life.
• HeatherAsh’s thoughts on committing to yourself and saying “yes” to your own needs and desires.

Resources Mentioned:

• Books by HeatherAsh Amara: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B003LHNEA2/allbooks?ingress=0&visitId=d123a8c8-9578-4af7-b68d-fa5609c19ae2
• Visit HeatherAsh’s website: warriorgoddess.com
• https://www.facebook.com/heatherash.amara
• http://instagram.com/heatherashamara

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my upcoming retreat to Panama: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? Download Your Free Hot Sheet With The Top 3 Things You Can Do Today To Rise + Thrive! https://risingwomanproject.com/contact/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

What if the perfect life you've been striving for is the very thing holding you back?

Christine Clyne-Spraker, author of Unwinding Perfect and former co-CEO of a best-in-class healthcare technology company, Eon, joins the podcast today to talk about her book, Unwinding Perfect.

Christine shares her journey from being a serial people-pleaser to choosing herself, leaving a high-powered career, and embracing imperfection. Her story is a reminder that true joy and contentment come from within, not from external validation or societal expectations. Through reflection, spiritual growth, and hard decisions, Christine discovered the importance of letting go of control, overcoming fear, and redefining success. 

If you're ready to stop living for others and step into the life you truly desire, this episode is for you.

In this episode:

• Christine's journey to unwinding perfection and embracing imperfection.
• The impact of childhood dynamics on identity and self-worth.
• Breaking free from societal expectations and learning to choose yourself.
• Tools for personal growth, including EFT tapping, meditation, and reframing negative self-talk.
• The dangers of void fillers, such as overworking, and how to recognize them.
• How shadow work and embracing our "ugly" sides can lead to self-acceptance and healing.
• Navigating midlife changes with grace and embracing transformation.
• The importance of detaching from outcomes and finding peace in the present moment.
• Christine’s insights on raising resilient children while modeling healthy behavior.
• Her process of writing Unwinding Perfect and the lessons she shares in her book.

Connect with Christine:

Website: https://www.unwindingperfect.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christine_clyne_spraker/
Unwinding Perfect: One Woman’s Story of Reclamation: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D1L56VBH?ref_=pe_93986420_774942710

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my upcoming retreat to Panama: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? Download Your Free Hot Sheet With The Top 3 Things You Can Do Today To Rise + Thrive! https://risingwomanproject.com/contact/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

What if midlife isn’t an end but a bold new beginning? 

In today’s episode, Sara welcomes Katie Prentiss, an actor, filmmaker, and storyteller whose work reflects her passion for connection and creativity. After losing her mother to dementia, Katie found herself drawn to acting and storytelling, culminating in her upcoming feature film, Wake Up Maggie. She’s also a portrait photographer and an acting coach who inspires others to take risks and follow their passions.

Katie’s story reminds us that it’s never too late to pursue our passions or redefine our paths. Whether you’re navigating caregiving, seeking a creative outlet, or contemplating a midlife career pivot, this episode is packed with wisdom, encouragement, and actionable insights.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How Katie transitioned from caregiving and photography to acting and filmmaking.
• The inspiration behind her feature film, Wake Up Maggie, and its focus on caregiving and midlife transformation.
• The concept of "coming of middle age" and why midlife is a powerful time for reinvention.
• How grief and loss can spark creativity and courage.
• The importance of embracing acceptance and letting go of what we can’t control.
• Tips for stepping into a new field or creative pursuit, no matter your age.
• Why trying new things can lead to alignment and fulfillment.
• Katie’s insights on balancing exploration and mastery in life and work.
• The role of play, hobbies, and joy in living a vibrant and fulfilling life.

Connect with Katie Prentiss:
Website: KatiePrentiss.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katieprentiss/
Wake Up Maggie’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wakeupmaggiemovie/
Follow her film: WakeUpMaggieMovie.com

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my upcoming retreat to Panama: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? Download Your Free Hot Sheet With The Top 3 Things You Can Do Today To Rise + Thrive! https://risingwomanproject.com/contact/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

Have you ever felt like you were on the brink of burnout? In this episode, Sara reads the chapter she wrote in the collaborative book We Lead: Building Connection, Community, and Collaboration for Women in Business. The chapter, titled On the Brink of Burnout: How to Reclaim Your Purpose and Thrive Again, explores the struggles of balancing career, family, and personal well-being—especially during times of crisis like the pandemic.

Through her reflection of this time in her life, this episode offers a heartfelt reminder of the importance of stepping away, prioritizing self-care, and rediscovering purpose. If you've ever felt overwhelmed, disconnected, or on the verge of burnout, this episode is for you.

Attending wellness retreats changed Sara’s life, and now she is offering her own to change yours. Join Sara for the ultimate rejuvenating experience at our retreat in Cambutal, Panama. Your days will be filled with sunrise meditations, yoga, listening to the sounds of the Pacific, walks along the ocean in laughter with friends, and moments for reflection and relaxation.  Returning home with a newfound clarity in the woman you are called to be, and a deeper connection to your body, your mind, and your soul.  Learn more here: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

In this episode:

• The personal journey from burnout to renewal.
• Practical strategies for identifying and addressing burnout.
• The importance of wellness retreats and transformative travel (Learn more about my upcoming retreat to Panama: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/)
• How consistent self-care practices can transform your personal and professional life.
• Tools for reconnecting with your values and finding joy amidst challenges.

Have a question or want to share your own experiences with burnout and renewal? Reach out and join the conversation. Your insights and reflections are always welcome!

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my upcoming retreat to Panama: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? Download Your Free Hot Sheet With The Top 3 Things You Can Do Today To Rise + Thrive! https://risingwomanproject.com/contact/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

What do you know about breathwork? Did you know that you can use it to regulate your body, nervous system, mood, digestion, and more?

If that sounds good to you, listen up! 

I’m so excited to be joined in this episode of Midlife Rise + Thrive by Trish Brewer. Trish is here to teach us the basics of breathwork. Think of this episode as Breathwork 101. It’s the class we all needed in school, and yet none of us got it. The good news is, it’s never too late to get started. 

Trish is sharing how breathwork can help you balance your nervous system and how that will benefit your mind and body in midlife. I’ve done this work myself and trust me, it’s good. 


As a trauma-informed Breathwork Coach, Reiki Master Teacher, and Intuitive Guide, Trish’s work is to create and hold space for you and to serve as your guide back to your whole self. Trish believes that when we allow ourselves to be supported, we expedite our own healing and self-discovery. She knows this to be true from her own experience. And when you work with Trish, she’ll meet you not just as a teacher, but also as a student.


Topics covered in this episode include:

• What breathwork can do for you as a woman in midlife 
• The different types of breathwork 
• The simple science behind breathwork 
• How to get started with breathwork 

If you’re interested in learning new ways to heal, this is for you.

All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!


Resources Mentioned:

Visit Trish’s Website: https://www.trishbrewer.com/

Follow @trishbrewerbreathwork on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trishbrewerbreathwork/

Follow Trish on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/trishdbrewerbreathwork/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

Are you constantly walking into a room only to forget why you're there? Or maybe you’re mid-sentence and suddenly lose your train of thought? If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and you’re definitely not losing your mind. In today’s solo episode, I’m diving into a topic that so many of my patients bring up: brain fog during perimenopause and menopause. We’ll explore what’s really behind this frustrating symptom and, most importantly, what you can do to start feeling clearer, calmer, and more capable again.

If you’ve been wondering why your focus feels off or your memory isn’t what it used to be, this episode will help you connect the dots—and find real solutions.

In this episode:

• What brain fog really is (and why it’s not “just in your head”)
• The powerful role estrogen and progesterone play in memory and clarity
• How stress and high cortisol levels make brain fog worse
• Why your sleep quality is directly tied to your cognitive health
• Practical lifestyle changes to support a clearer, sharper mind
• The impact of exercise, healthy fats, and herbal adaptogens like Ashwagandha
• When to consider bioidentical hormone therapy—and why it’s not always the first step

Resources Mentioned:

 🌿 FREE RESOURCE: Download your guide to thriving in midlife: https://risingwomanproject.com

Connect with me, Dr. Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

This is a fan-favorite holiday replay!

Are the holidays a particularly difficult time for you?


You might feel alone based on the picture-perfect posts in your Instagram feed, but the truth is you’re not alone at all. We think of the holidays as a wonderful time of year filled with joy, laughter, family, and love, but the holidays can be super stressful for so many of us. 


With the holiday season upon us, I wanted to take some time to talk about strategies that can help you through whatever struggles you’re experiencing this year. In this episode, Maria Winters is sharing some tools and tips to help you navigate the holiday season with grace, even if you’re feeling lonely and isolated amidst all the chaos. 


Maria is a licensed mental health therapist with over 20 years of experience providing support to adults and adolescents in a variety of settings. For the past 11 years, she has been working in a local emergency room as a consultant for mental health-related crises. Maria is fully bilingual in English and Spanish.


Topics covered in this episode include:

• What gratitude really means 
• Dealing with feelings of loneliness during the holidays 
• How to acknowledge and validate your feelings

If you’re feeling lonely this holiday season, let us help.


All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!


Resources Mentioned:

Visit Maria’s Website: www.thecoachingtherapist.com

Follow @coaching_therapist on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coaching_therapist/

Listen to the Wellness: Rebranded Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wellness-rebranded-intuitive-eating-diet-culture-food/id1651744916 

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

Is your sex life feeling like a chore or fading with age? You’re not alone. In this episode, intimacy expert to millions, Susan Bratton, reveals how women can reconnect with their desire, embrace ageless sexuality, and experience pleasure like never before.
We discuss the science, tools, and techniques that can transform your sex life. Susan shares her personal journey of rediscovering intimacy after years of feeling disconnected and how her experience led her to dedicate her life to helping others reignite passion and pleasure, and having the best sex of her life in her 60s!

Susan Bratton, "Intimacy Expert to Millions💋" is a champion and advocate for all those who desire intimacy and passion their whole life long. She’s created hundreds of techniques that transform “having sex” into making love and is the world’s most well-respected sexual biohacker.

Susan is co-founder and CEO of two companies: Personal Life Media, Inc., a publisher of the Better Lover💋 brand of heart-connected lovemaking techniques and bedroom communication skills and sexual regenerative therapies. Get her free sex tips by email at BetterLover.com

And The20, LLC., a manufacturer of organic and botanical supplements that enhance sexual vitality.

It’s never too late to reconnect with your pleasure and your partner. 

In this episode:

• Why women often lose desire and what to do about it
• The role of hormones (testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, and oxytocin) in sexual health
• How Yoni massages and proper blood flow can be game-changers for women’s arousal
• Tools and resources for increasing sensation, intimacy, and connection
• Overcoming body image issues and reclaiming your sexual confidence
• Why orgasms are a key to health and happiness (and yes, you can have them from intercourse!)

Resources:

Join her sex tips newsletter at BetterLover.com. Follow her personal shares on Instagram, Threads and OnlyFans @susanbratton, and get her lust-for-life supplements, FLOW and DESIRE at The20store.com.

FORIA Intimate wellness

Orgasmicintercourse.com

soulmateembrace.com

https://betterlover.com

https://susanbratton.com

https://personallifemedia.com

https://instagram.com/susanbratton

https://www.facebook.com/trustedhotsexadvisortomillions

https://youtube.com/c/betterlover

https://www.tiktok.com/discover/susan-bratton

https://susanmerch.com

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my upcoming retreat to Panama: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? Download Your Free Hot Sheet With The Top 3 Things You Can Do Today To Rise + Thrive! https://risingwomanproject.com/contact/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

What if your biggest challenge could lead you to your greatest purpose? Dr. Jeanne Retief, a human rights expert turned skincare founder, shares her journey of embracing panic disorder, leaving a career she loved, and building a life that works with her unique wiring.

Dr. Jeanne Retief is the founder of Figgy Beauty, anxiety advocate, and former human rights expert. Through her skincare line and online courses, she helps others navigate anxiety while respecting her own boundaries. This episode is a testament to resilience, acceptance, and the power of building a life that works with, not against, your challenges.

In this episode:

• Dr. Jeanne’s journey from a thriving career in human rights to her diagnosis of panic disorder.
• How unresolved trauma and complex post-traumatic stress can manifest as anxiety and panic attacks.
• The importance of self-acceptance and working with, not against, your mental health diagnosis.
• Practical tools for managing anxiety, including understanding your triggers, setting limits, and respecting your boundaries.
• The inspiration behind Figgy Beauty, a skincare line tailored for sensitive skin, and its connection to anxiety management.
• How Dr. Jeanne fosters community and offers support through her online courses and resources for those struggling with anxiety.

Resources:

Dr. Jeanne’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/docjeanne_/

FIGGI Beauty: https://linktr.ee/figgibeauty

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my upcoming retreat to Panama: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? Download Your Free Hot Sheet With The Top 3 Things You Can Do Today To Rise + Thrive! https://risingwomanproject.com/contact/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

Every woman will experience menopause, yet so many of us are left in the dark about what to expect? 

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Cathleen Brown, also known as Dr. Cat is a board-certified OB/GYN and native of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She graduated from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine in 2004. After completing her residency training at the Tripler Army Medical Center in Hawaii, she served on Army bases across the country, caring for female soldiers and female dependents of active-duty soldiers. She was honorably discharged from the Army, after 12 years of meritorious service. In her spare time, she loves traveling, gardening, and spending time with her three wonderful children! Dr. Cat has dedicated her career to women’s health education, which is what led her to Winona. 

Dr. Cat shares her expertise in women’s health, discussing the importance of access to proper care, breaking down stigmas, and advocating for women during this transformative phase of life. We explore the symptoms of perimenopause, the benefits and misconceptions of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and why it’s crucial for women to educate themselves about their bodies and demand better care. 

Whether you’re in midlife or supporting someone who is, this episode is packed with empowering advice, practical tools, and resources to help women reclaim their health and thrive.

In this episode:

• What Winona offers and how telemedicine bridges gaps in women’s midlife care.
• Common symptoms of perimenopause and how to identify them.
• The truth about hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and debunking fears surrounding breast cancer.
• Why birth control and antidepressants are not always the best solutions for menopause symptoms.
• The importance of self-advocacy and how to find a provider who listens.
• Practical tips for tracking symptoms and preparing for medical appointments.
• How estrogen impacts brain health and overall well-being.

Resources Mentioned:

The Menopause Brain by Dr. Lisa Mosconi: https://a.co/d/1o8yK5W

PBS Documentary: The M Factor: https://www.pbs.org/show/the-m-factor-shredding-the-silence-on-menopause/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DrcatOBGYN

Website: https://bywinona.com/

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my upcoming retreat to Panama: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? Download Your Free Hot Sheet With The Top 3 Things You Can Do Today To Rise + Thrive! https://risingwomanproject.com/contact/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

Are you ready to break free from the toxic habits, relationships, and patterns holding you back? In today’s episode, we dive deep into healing, transformation, and the power of the Law of Attraction with Mary Beth Schrudder.

Mary Beth Schrudder is a Spiritual and Transformational Life Coach. She is founder of Day One Life Coaching, author of Addiction Recovery with the Law of Attraction, and the host of the “Spiritual Transformation Podcast with Mary Beth”.

Mary Beth will help you heal addictions and transform relationships, including the relationship with yourself! Her approach is holistic, and her areas of expertise include relationships, marriage, divorce, mindset, happiness, freedom from addictions, optimal fitness, life purpose, and career.

She shares her holistic approach to detoxing your life by addressing addictions, transforming relationships, and reclaiming self-worth. From practical tools for change to the power of the Law of Attraction, this conversation dives deep into building an intentional, joyful life.

In this episode:

• How to shift your mindset, align your energy, and attract what you truly desire with law of attraction.
• How to detox your life throughIdentifying and releasing addictions, toxic relationships, and habits that no longer serve you.
• Why acknowledging your patterns is the first step to creating lasting change.
• Creating Positive Habits: The importance of morning routines, meditation, and filling your life with positive inputs.
• How judgments and forgiveness shape what we attract and how forgiveness and compassion transform those patterns.
• Practical Tools for Change: Simple steps to replace bad habits with empowering, life-affirming routines.
• The importance of asking for help through this healing process.

Resources:

Connect with Mary Beth: https://linktr.ee/DayOneLifeCoaching

Addiction Recovery with the Law of Attraction card deck (use code SARA for $10 off).

Books Mentioned: The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my upcoming retreat to Panama: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? Download Your Free Hot Sheet With The Top 3 Things You Can Do Today To Rise + Thrive! https://risingwomanproject.com/contact/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

The holiday season can be a time of joy and connection, but for many, it also brings stress, triggers, and the resurfacing of unresolved trauma.

Lauren Massa joins the podcast to share her tips for setting boundaries and protecting your peace this holiday season! Lauren is a licensed counselor and clinical trauma clinician practicing in MD and CO. She feels passionately about building a relationship with her clients to strengthen their self-views and heal from the traumas they may have experienced throughout their lifetime. She loves her work with local moms searching for support on reinforcing boundaries and rediscovering their voices and strength, as well as specializing in the neurodivergent and LGBTQI+ communities. In her free time, you will typically find Lauren out enjoying the sunshine with her cats or chickens while on the lookout for good book suggestions!

In this episode:

• How trauma from childhood or past experiences can affect our holiday experiences.
• The role of boundaries in protecting your emotional well-being.
• Tools like breathwork and intentional decision-making to create space before responding to holiday demands.
• Why understanding your worth is essential to setting and maintaining boundaries.
• Practical tips for navigating difficult family dynamics with clarity and compassion.
• How to redefine holiday traditions to align with your values and needs.

Resources:

Website: https://www.forestbeachcounseling.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/forestbeachcounseling/

Lauren’s Blog Post, “5 Tips for Setting Boundaries this Holiday Season”: https://www.forestbeachcounseling.com/blog/5-tips-for-setting-boundaries-this-holiday-season

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my upcoming retreat to Panama: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? Download Your Free Hot Sheet With The Top 3 Things You Can Do Today To Rise + Thrive! https://risingwomanproject.com/contact/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

What if your daily routine is unknowingly adding to your toxic load? And did you know that balancing your minerals might be the key to clearing brain fog and boosting your energy?

In this episode, I sit down with Fatima Pagtakhan, an Integrative Health Practitioner focused on Mineral Balancing. She helps highly driven women gain their energy back, clear brain fog, heal inflammation, and lose stubborn weight. 

Fatima shares her expertise on reducing toxic load in daily life and explains why mineral balancing is essential for optimal health. As a homeschooling mom of four, and one on the way, with a small homestead, Fatima brings a wealth of knowledge on practical steps for minimizing toxins while keeping balance at the forefront.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Tips for getting started with low tox living
• The importance of checking out the Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) Dirty Dozen list when purchasing
• Why avoiding ingredients like high fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors, and preservatives can support better health.
• What is Mineral Balancing? 
• The Process of Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis and how it provides insights into cellular health, helping to guide customized nutrition and supplement recommendations.
• Common symptoms that indicate mineral imbalance, including fatigue, brain fog, anxiety, and sleep issues.
• The role of trauma and how it can impact mineral levels and overall well-being.

Connect with Fatima:

https://www.instagram.com/fatimapagtakhan

https://www.facebook.com/fatima.luceia13

https://www.linkedin.com/in/fatima-pagtakhan-ihp2-3193b7271/

The Ultimate Energy Checklist: https://kindheartlifestyle.ck.page/781251353f

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my upcoming retreat to Panama: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? Download Your Free Hot Sheet With The Top 3 Things You Can Do Today To Rise + Thrive! https://risingwomanproject.com/contact/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

Curious about how to feel strong, energized, and confident in midlife without focusing on weight alone? In this episode, I am joined by Monique Willingham to address the real drivers of health, including managing visceral fat, supporting hormonal shifts, and optimizing your well-being through a weight-neutral approach.

Monique Willingham is a certified Nurse Practitioner and the founder of Remedy Green. As a native of Maryland with a passion for wellness and beauty, Monique has dedicated over 15 years to clinical excellence in oncology, surgery, and overall well-being.

Monique’s commitment goes beyond traditional healthcare; she is certified in cosmetic injections and continuously expands her expertise through ongoing education in medical cannabis, infusion-based cellular health, micronutrient therapy, peptide therapy, food as medicine, and therapeutic exercise programs. Her mission is simple yet profound: to offer patients a personalized, holistic journey towards feeling and looking their best, rooted in love and grace.

In this episode:

• Understanding Visceral Fat, what it is and why it increases during midlife.
• Understanding how hormones like estrogen and testosterone can lead to changes in fat distribution, particularly around the abdomen, and what steps can help counterbalance these effects.
• What role stress management, sleep, and mindset play in weight loss and wellbeing.
• What you can do now to increase your wellness, such as what to eat and ways to move your body.
• Why shifting the focus from weight loss to muscle maintenance, bone health, and flexibility to ensure mobility and vitality is the best thing you can do for yourself
• Ways that Sara and Monique help their clients in midlife.

Resources Mentioned:

Remedy Green’s Website: https://remedygreenwellness.com/about-us/

Remedy Green’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remedygreen/

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my upcoming retreats to Panama: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? Download Your Free Hot Sheet With The Top 3 Things You Can Do Today To Rise + Thrive! https://risingwomanproject.com/contact/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

What if you could feel more energized, clear-headed, and in control of your health, without counting calories or following a restrictive plan? 

In today’s episode, Laurie Lewis reveals how intermittent fasting can help you break free from the cycle of deprivation and start living in tune with your body’s natural rhythms. Laurie is the founder of Fast Forward Wellness and specializes in guiding individuals, particularly women in midlife, to experience the benefits of intermittent fasting while navigating life’s challenges. With her simple, approachable method, Laurie helps us understand how to create an eating window that works with our unique lifestyle, leading to better energy, improved health markers, and sustainable wellness.

In This Episode:

• Laurie's background and journey to becoming a wellness coach specializing in intermittent fasting.
• The basics of intermittent fasting—what it is, how it works, and why it’s not part of traditional diet culture.
• How fasting can help balance hormones, heal the gut, boost energy, and burn body fat.
• The importance of the clean fast and why flavor-free drinks during fasting periods are essential.
• The benefits of starting with a 12-hour fast and how to adjust your eating window based on your body’s needs.
• How to identify your “fasting sweet spot” and why it’s important to find a schedule that works for your life and goals.
• How to stay on track with fasting while traveling or dealing with a busy, erratic schedule.
• Real-life tips on creating a fasting routine that helps you feel your best.
• Lori’s four cornerstones for successful intermittent fasting: Clean fast, curiosity, customization, and continuation.
• How intermittent fasting can support weight management, improve metabolic health, and extend lifespan.
• The science behind fasting and how it can shift your body from being a sugar burner to a fat burner.

Resources Mentioned:

Lori’s Website: FastForwardWellness.com

Lori’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fast_forward_wellness/

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my upcoming retreats to Panama: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? Download Your Free Hot Sheet With The Top 3 Things You Can Do Today To Rise + Thrive! https://risingwomanproject.com/contact/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

Is fatigue taking over your life, but you are not sure what the cause is? Are you struggling with weight gain, brain fog, or constant exhaustion despite "normal" thyroid test results? 

You might be one of the millions of people with undiagnosed Hashimoto’s or hypothyroidism. In this episode, I sit down with Whitney Morgan, founder of Morgan Nutrition, creator of the Thyroid Reboot Method, and co-founder of the Functional Health Alliance. Whitney specializes in advanced functional testing and root cause healing for chronic illness, thyroid disease, and autoimmune issues. She’s helped dozens of women with Hashimoto’s and hypothyroidism eliminate their unique thyroid triggers and restore vibrant health.

Whitney shares insights into why conventional thyroid testing often misses the mark and reveals the vital steps you can take today to start healing from Hashimoto’s and hypothyroidism.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The #1 thing to do when you suspect you have Hashimoto’s (hint: it has to do with gluten!)
• Symptoms you may experience if you have Hashimoto’s.
• Whitney’s personal journey through four autoimmune diagnoses and how it shaped her practice
• What the perfect storm of triggers are when it comes to Hashimoto’s 
• The difference between hypothyroidism and Hashimoto’s and why many go undiagnosed
• Why thyroid health is connected to gut health, nutrient deficiencies, and inflammation
• How advanced functional testing can reveal hidden triggers like heavy metals, parasites, and food sensitivities
• Whitney’s advice for nourishing your thyroid, including diet and nutrient strategies
• The importance of finding a functional practitioner to guide your thyroid healing journey
• How Whitney supports her clients with functional lab testing and more

Resources Mentioned:

Whitney’s Website: https://www.morgannutrition.com/
YouTube: https://bit.ly/whitneymorganYouTube
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whitneymorgannutrition/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whitneymorgannutrition/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitneymorgannutrition/
Whitney’s Freebie: https://www.morgannutrition.com/thyroid-interpretation-guide

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my upcoming retreats to Panama: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? Download Your Free Hot Sheet With The Top 3 Things You Can Do Today To Rise + Thrive! https://risingwomanproject.com/contact/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

Are you feeling stuck in the "shoulds" of midlife — checking all the boxes of success but still wondering, is this all there is? You’re not alone, and you’re definitely not broken. In this inspiring episode, we're talking about how pleasure, self-discovery, and nervous system healing can reignite your midlife revolution.

Today, I’m joined by Natty Frasca, a pleasure coach, speaker, and fierce advocate for midlife women owning their full power. Natty shares her deeply personal story of transformation after hitting 40 — and how reconnecting with pleasure helped her rebuild her marriage, career, and sense of self. If you’re ready to reclaim your joy and lead with love, this conversation is for you!

In this episode:

•  Natty’s “kitchen counter epiphany” — and how it changed everything.
• Why feeling good isn't just nice — it’s revolutionary.
• How pleasure practices heal the nervous system and fuel resilience.
• Why traditional marriage narratives don't fit many midlife women (and what to do about it).
• Small, everyday ways to “love push” and ripple positive change into the world.
• How Natty rebuilt her marriage through intention, imagination, and action.
• The essential link between pleasure, safety, and true intimacy.

Resources Mentioned:

• Website: https://www.thefemininerebellion.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefemininerebellion/

Connect with me, Dr. Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

Betrayal hits hard. Whether from a loved one, a colleague, or a friend, the pain can feel like a deep wound that never fully heals. But what if there was a clear, predictable way to heal from betrayal? In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Debi Silber whose groundbreaking research has uncovered the specific steps to move past betrayal and rebuild your life from the ground up.

Dr. Debi Silber, Founder of the PBT (Post Betrayal Transformation) Institute and National Forgiveness Day (celebrated annually on September 1st), is an award winning speaker, and a 2-time #1 International bestselling author. Her podcast: From Betrayal to Breakthrough is also globally ranked within the top 1.5% of podcasts. Her recent PhD study on how we experience betrayal made 3 groundbreaking discoveries that changes how long it takes to heal. In addition to being on FOX, CBS, The Dr. Oz Show, TEDx (twice) and more, she’s dedicated to helping people move past their betrayals as well as any other blocks preventing them from the health, work, relationships, confidence, and happiness they want most.

Dr. Debi shares the powerful revelations from her PhD study on betrayal, including why time alone doesn’t heal betrayal and how betrayal impacts every aspect of our lives—from physical health to emotional well-being. With her guidance, you’ll discover the five stages of healing and how to work through each one to find peace, rebuild trust, and reclaim your power.

In this episode, we discuss:

• Why betrayal is a unique form of trauma that requires a specific healing process
• The three groundbreaking discoveries Dr. Debi made through her research on betrayal
• How betrayal can manifest in different areas of life, including personal relationships, the workplace, and even within family dynamics.
• The importance of recognizing when you’re stuck in the survival stage and how to move forward
• The five proven stages of healing from betrayal and how to navigate through them
• How betrayal affects your ability to trust, love, and connect with others—and how to heal those wounds
• Why time alone doesn’t heal betrayal and what you must do to truly recover

Resources Mentioned:

• Website: https://thepbtinstitute.com
• The latest TEDx: “Do You Have Post Betrayal Syndrome?“: 
• TEDx: Stop Sabotaging Yourself
• The From Betrayal to Breakthrough podcast
• TikTok
• Facebook
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/DebiSilber
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debisilber/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/debisilber/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/debisilber
• Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/DebiSilber/

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my upcoming retreats to Panama: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? Download Your Free Hot Sheet With

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

What if the key to living a more colorful and fulfilling life was just one small "sprinkle" away?

In this episode, I speak with Debbie Weiss, a best-selling author, entrepreneur, and certified Success Principles trainer, who has mastered the art of turning life’s toughest challenges into opportunities for growth. With her new book The Sprinkle Effect: A Guide to Living a More Colorful and Fulfilling Life set to release in November, Debbie shares her personal transformation story—how she overcame caregiving challenges, weight loss struggles, and limiting beliefs to create a vibrant life full of joy and purpose.

With over 60 years of experience dealing with some of life’s toughest challenges, Debbie is an expert in chasing your own dreams in spite of your circumstances. She is the best-selling author of the memoir “On second thought,...maybe I can" as well as a co-author in the Amazon best seller collaborative book “Heart Whispers”. Debbie's soon-to-be-published book, “The Sprinkle Effect: A Guide to Living a More Colorful and Fulfilling Life,” adds another vibrant chapter to her literary journey.

In addition, Debbie is a Canfield Certified Trainer in the Success Principles, an entrepreneur running both an insurance agency and her online store, “A Sprinkle of Hearts,” host of the “maybe I can” podcast, inspirational speaker, family caregiver, and mother. Debbie has overcome her own limiting beliefs and fears, allowing her to begin to live her best life. Her life’s passion is to help and inspire others to do the same.

In this episode:

• Debbie’s caregiving journey and the impact it had on her life
• How turning 50 became a pivotal moment for her to reassess her purpose and goals
• Debbie’s journey with weight loss, self acceptance and deeply understanding herself
• Shifting from a mindset of “I can’t” to “On second thought, maybe I can”
• How The Sprinkle Effect encourages readers to sprinkle positivity, belief, and discipline into their lives
• The power of focusing on small, manageable steps in personal transformation
• Why journaling is a powerful tool for self-reflection and discovery
• How every choice you make is a chance to shape your future

Resources Mentioned:

Debbie’s Upcoming book: The Sprinkle Effect: A Guide to Living a More Colorful and Fulfilling Life (Release Date: November 11, 2024)

The One Critical Step to KICKSTART CHANGE: https://www.debbierweiss.com/kickstart

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/debbierweiss

Facebook Group, Maybe I Can

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/debbie.r.weiss/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debbieweiss/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@debbierweiss

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@debbierweiss

Maybe I Can Podcast

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my upcoming retreats to Panama: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? D

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

What if microdosing psychedelics could transform your mental well-being and success?

What exactly is microdosing? In this episode, I sit down with Peggy Van de Plassche, to explore  the benefits of using psilocybin, and how it helps with performance, mental wellness, connecting with your true self, and how it can improve life for women navigating midlife transitions.

Peggy is a former financial services executive turned expert in the psychedelic space. She is the founder of The Microdose Diet, a holistic program that utilizes microdosing psilocybin, alongside other alternative therapies, to rewire the brain, reduce stress, and elevate emotional and physical well-being. Her book, More: The Microdose Diet – The 90-Day Plan for More Success, Passion, and Happiness, shares a step-by-step guide to unlocking these benefits.

Peggy also explains the importance of using high-quality products and integrating holistic practices like journaling, meditation, tapping to maximize the effects of microdosing, as well as her own experience microdosing psilocybin!

Topics covered in this episode include:

• What microdosing is and how it works
• The benefits of microdosing psilocybin for mental wellness, anxiety, and performance
• Peggy’s experience with microdosing and how it can help other women in midlife experiencing menopause and perimenopause
• How microdosing can rewire the brain and foster emotional healing
• The importance of high-quality products and mindful protocols
• How to combine microdosing with practices like journaling, meditation, and therapy for best results

Resources Mentioned:

Visit Peggy’s website: themicrodosediet.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peggy.vdp/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peggy-van-de-plassche/
Peggy’s Book, MORE! The Microdose Diet: The 90 Day Plan for More Success, Passion and Happiness: https://www.amazon.com/MORE-Microdose-Diet-Success-Happiness/dp/B0CLKJ3J8S?crid=H85579UFZTHH&keywords=microdose%20diet%20peggy&language=en_US&linkCode=sl1&linkId=c94767745adf6f37702a719247063cec&qid=1698420583&ref_=as_li_ss_tl&sprefix=microdose%20diet%20peggy%2Caps%2C79&sr=8-2&tag=poshilpre06-20

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my upcoming retreats to Panama: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? Download Your Free Hot Sheet With The Top 3 Things You Can Do Today To Rise + Thrive! https://risingwomanproject.com/contact/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

What if midlife could be a time of renewal rather than overwhelm?

In this episode, I sit down with Stacy Brix, a dedicated health and wellness coach and board-certified family nurse practitioner specializing in women's health. Stacy empowers women navigating perimenopause and menopause, focusing on the intersection of mental health and physical well-being.

As a dedicated Health and Wellness Coach, she empowers women through the transformative stages of perimenopause and menopause with a holistic and evidence-based approach. Her background includes comprehensive training from Well Coaches and mindfulness training at the Jefferson-Myrna Brind Center of Integrative Medicine. Additionally, she is a board-certified Family Nurse Practitioner with over 7 years of experience in women's health and is pursuing a specialty certification as a Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner. Her diverse expertise ensures that her coaching programs support women in achieving their best selves during life transitions.

In this episode, we talk about the unique challenges women face during midlife, including burnout, hormonal changes, and the juggling act of careers, aging parents, and growing children. We also talk about the importance of pausing to create a vision for the future, cutting through the noise of social media, and finding reliable resources and support systems.

All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!

In this episode:

• Recognizing and addressing burnout in midlife, and what to do if you are burnout.
• The importance of creating a personal vision for the future.
• Real advice for navigating the overwhelm of hormonal shifts and life transitions.
• The role of coaching and community support in women's health, and more about how Stacy helps women.
• Practical steps to improve mental and physical well-being during perimenopause and menopause.

Resources Mentioned:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/menopauseonthemind

Website: https://brixwellnessnp.com

Link to Freebie: https://30d3-info.systeme.io/17f538e5

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my retreats: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? Download Your Free Hot Sheet With The Top 3 Things You Can Do Today To Rise + Thrive! https://risingwomanproject.com/contact/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

What if you could achieve consistently clear skin and better gut health with a science-driven approach?

In this episode, I sit down with Dina Rasutis. From Civil Engineer to Nutrition Therapist Master, Daina utilizes her science background to implement a bio-individualized approach to nutrition. Diana shares her personal health journey, from struggling with adult acne and fatigue to discovering the power of nutrition and functional testing. We discuss the benefits of the GI map stool test and food sensitivity testing, exploring how these tools can identify internal triggers and guide personalized dietary changes for lasting results.

She explains why addressing both food sensitivities and gut health together is essential for effective healing, and how targeted testing helps pinpoint the foods and supplements that are right for your body.

Tune in to learn how targeted testing can guide your path to optimized gut health, reduce inflammation, and help you thrive!

All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!

In this episode include:

• Dina’s personal health journey and how it inspired her transition from civil engineer to nutrition therapist.
• The GI map stool test: What it reveals about your gut health, such as parasites, yeast overgrowth, and digestive enzyme imbalances.
• Food sensitivity testing: How it helps heal the gut and prevent irritation
• Why you need to address both food sensitivities and gut health simultaneously for effective healing.
• All about functional tests: What types of tests are out there, and what to know about them! 
• The importance of a bio-individualized approach to nutrition and why one-size-fits-all diets don’t work.
• The importance of gut health in managing skin conditions like adult acne.
• Why functional testing is an essential tool for women in midlife navigating hormonal changes and digestive issues.

Resources Mentioned:

Visit Dina’s website: tabletocrave.com

Follow Dina on Instagram: @tabletocrave

Download Dina’s free gut health resources on her website and start your journey to better health today! https://www.tabletocrave.com/freebies

MegaSporeBiotic by Microbiome Labs

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my retreats: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? Download Your Free Hot Sheet With The Top 3 Things You Can Do Today To Rise + Thrive! https://risingwomanproject.com/contact/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

What if it’s never too late to start taking care of yourself?

I hear you, oftentimes it feels like maybe your goals are too far out of reach, or you don’t have enough time to start a new routine, or maybe even you feel like you are too old to change your habits. I am thrilled to be joined this week by Terry Tateossian, the founder of T.H.O.R. Wellness to show you that it is never too late to reclaim your health! 

At 42, Terry embarked on a profoundly life-altering journey, successfully shedding over 80 lbs in her mid-forties, overcoming emotional eating and discovering an untapped source of incredible physical and emotional strength. 

Terry's passion & experience of helping women regain confidence, ignite wellbeing and find their true purpose has been propelling her forward for the past 25 years. Terry has been recognized as Inc. 5000's Fastest Growing Companies in America 2020, Inc. 2020 Best Places to Work, NJBIZ Top 40 Under 40, Future 50 Fastest Growing companies in NJ/NY, WPO 50 Fastest Growing Women-Owned/Led Companies, Top 25 Leading Women Entrepreneurs, Top Female CEO Brava Award Winner, Best Company Culture in NJ and Top Women to Watch by HudsonMOD.

All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!

In this episode include:

• The wake-up call Terry received about her health that changed her trajectory. 
• Overcoming emotional eating and negative self-talk
• The physical, emotional and mental shifts that Terry experienced, and now coaches her clients through. 
• The power of resistance training for reversing aging.
• The importance of Setting boundaries and prioritizing self-care.
• Transforming your mindset to achieve lasting results.
• How you can start addressing and identifying self-sabotaging behaviors that might be holding you back! 

Resources Mentioned:

Visit Terry's website: thehouseofrose.com

Follow Terry on Instagram: @how.good.can.it.get

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my retreats: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? Download Your Free Hot Sheet With The Top 3 Things You Can Do Today To Rise + Thrive! https://risingwomanproject.com/contact/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

What happens when we give away our power, and how can we reclaim it?

In this episode, I sit down with Alicia Rodriguez, a published author, storyteller, and slow living evangelist. Alicia shares her transformative journey of reclaiming her agency after giving it away in a complex relationship, a central theme in her upcoming memoir, “The Shaman's Wife: A Mystical Journey of Surrender and Self-Discovery.” 

Alicia discusses the impact of societal and generational messaging on women’s sense of power and the spiritual voids that can make us vulnerable. She shares her story of surrender and self-discovery, which can inspire you to reclaim your power and live with intention. 

Alicia is a published author, storyteller, slow-living evangelist, and catalyst for personal growth. She works with individuals committed to making quantum leaps in their lives. Alicia is passionate about writing, Portugal, rich coffee, her dog Sophie, courageous conversations, and work with heart and meaning. As a published author and spiritual woman, she nurtures her creativity and soul in the beauty of the Algarve. Alicia’s memoir, The Shaman’s Wife, will be published on September 10, 2024.

All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!

Topics covered in this episode include: 

- Reclaiming agency in complex relationships 

- The role of spiritual voids in vulnerability 

- Forgiveness and self-compassion in healing 

- The power of retreats for self-care and transformation 

Resources Mentioned: 

Media: https://aliciamrodriguez.com/media

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/aliciamrodriguez

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MsAliciaMRodriguez/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/msaliciamrodriguez

Substack: Nothing Is Ordinary – https://substack.com

Amazon Author page: www.amazon.com/author/aliciamrodriguez

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/aliciamrodriguez

Simple Wisdom & Daily Inspiration: https://alicia-m-rodriguez.ck.page/simple-wisdom-daily

Connect with me, Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Learn more about my retreats: https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/

Ready To Take The Next Step To Thriving In Midlife? Download Your Free Hot Sheet With The Top 3 Things You Can Do Today To Rise + Thrive! https://risingwomanproject.com/contact/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

What if just 15 minutes of daily exercise could transform your midlife experience?


In this episode, I sat down with Kim Rahir, a 60-year-old European champion weightlifter and health coach who overcame MS to reclaim her vitality through strength training. Kim and I chat about her journey from MS diagnosis to European weightlifting champion, the power of strength training for midlife women and how to start a simple, effective home workout routine.


Tune in to learn how you can tap into an abundant source of vitality and thrive in midlife through strength training and proper nutrition. Kim's story will inspire you to take charge of your health and embrace new possibilities, no matter your starting point.


Topics covered in this episode include:

• Kim's 15-minute daily workout program for busy midlife women
• The importance of assessing your current fitness level
• How strength training improves energy, confidence, and overall well-being

All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!


Resources Mentioned:

Access a Free Assessment Tool about Your Health and Strength: https://kimrahir.com

Connect with Kim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kim-rahir/

Connect with Kim on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kim.rahir/

Follow Kim on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kim.rahir/ 

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

Are you constantly dealing with mystery aches and pains in your body that never seem to go away? Many people do in midlife, but what if you didn’t have to just power through it?


In this episode of Midlife Rise + Thrive, I’m joined by Dr. Jeffrey Gross to talk all about regenerative medicine. You might have heard of stem cell medicine (and that’s a good place to start) but this episode explores even more of the groundbreaking options available to help you beat your pain. 


Licensed in California and Nevada, Dr. Jeffrey Gross has SPINE practices in Orange County and Henderson, Nevada. A trained neurological surgeon, he specializes in athletic injuries and spine procedures and offers longevity and biohacking consultations. He founded ReCELLebrate to focus on anti-aging and regenerative medicine, offering modern biochemical treatments and treating surgery as a last resort. 


Topics covered in this episode include:

• How to heal your achy joints and muscles once and for all
• A little-known alternative to surgery to help with your pain 
• How to save money on your health costs 

If you’re wondering how you can feel better without going straight to surgery, the answer lies in this episode.


All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!


Resources Mentioned:

Check Out ReCELLebrate: https://recellebrate.com/

Follow @recellebrate on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/recellebrate/

Follow @recellebrate on on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@recellebrate

Subscribe to Dr. Gross’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@stemcellwhisperer

Connect with Dr. Gross on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-gross-md-5605605/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

Are you ready to start working on your health goals but don’t know where to begin? 


I get it. There’s so much information online now and it seems like everyone has a different opinion on what works and what doesn’t. That’s why our guest in this episode of Midlife Rise + Thrive is taking us back to basics. 


Esther Avant is here to teach us the big rock approach to better health. This approach is based on establishing six simple habits to kick-start your health journey so that you don’t get bogged down in the details. 


Esther Avant is a health industry veteran with over 18 years of experience in fitness, nutrition, and wellness-related roles. She is known for making exercise and nutrition simple and helping her clients address the root issues that have been standing between them and results that last. 


Topics covered in this episode include:

• An easy way to integrate movement into your life 
• One type of workout that will transform your health 
• How to improve your health in just a few minutes each day 

Tune in to find out what Esther's six big rock habits are and how they make weight loss simple when nothing seems to be working.


All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!


Resources Mentioned:

Visit Esther’s Website: www.estheravant.com

Follow @esther.avant on Instagram: www.instagram.com/esther.avant

Join Esther’s Facebook Group: www.facebook.com/groups/livedietfree

Listen to Esther’s Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-live-diet-free-podcast/id1543658046

Get Esther’s Free Menopause Guide: https://estheravant.com/menopause/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

Are you second-guessing your gut feelings—or brushing them off in the name of being “nice”? If you’ve ever doubted what you were seeing or feeling in a relationship—whether personal or professional—this episode is for you. In the first episode of the newly rebranded Menopause: Rise and Thrive, I’m opening up about a recent working relationship that challenged me to reconnect with one of the most essential midlife tools: self-trust.

With warmth and vulnerability, I invite you into my journey of learning to trust what’s real, not just what you hope could be. This episode is a tender yet powerful reminder that growth often means letting go—and that your intuition deserves to be honored. 

In this episode:

• Why trusting your gut is harder than it sounds—and how midlife can help sharpen that instinct.
• The subtle ways we override our own discomfort in the name of harmony.
• Personal story of a professional relationship that sparked deep self-reflection.
• How emotional intelligence and self-protection often conflict—and what to do about it.
• The role of caregiving and “being nice” in silencing your own needs.
• A powerful plant analogy you won’t forget—on outgrowing old containers (and relationships).
• Permission to release relationships that no longer align—and embrace discernment as growth.

Connect with me, Dr. Sara Poldmae:

Website: https://risingwomanproject.com

Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmae

Join me at my next wellness retreat!   https://risingwomanproject.com/retreats/2025-april/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

How do you learn to love yourself after divorce or trauma?


We’re jumping in at the deep end this week to tackle a pretty heavy and emotional topic, but things take an unexpectedly beautiful turn at the end that you’re going to want to stick around for. 


This conversation with Magic Barclay is definitely an instant favorite of mine, so don’t miss this episode of Midlife Rise + Thrive, all about self-love, female friendship, and… kangaroos. 


Magic Barclay is the lead practitioner at Wholistic Natural Health Australia and host of A Magical Life: a podcast all about health, wealth, and weight loss. She helps women aged 45-65 who feel unheard or misled by mainstream medicine or anyone who wants to bring their health back to basics. 


Topics covered in this episode include:

• A telltale sign that you’re not comfortable with yourself 
• What we have in common with children when it comes to being ourselves
• An equation to help you identify how you show up for yourself 

If you’re just as confused as I was about what kangaroos have to do with self-love, you’ll have to tune in for answers!


All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!


Resources Mentioned:


Visit Magic’s Website: www.wholisticnaturalhealth.com.au

Follow Wholistic Natural Health Australia on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wholistic-natural-health-australia/

Follow @wholisticnaturalhealth on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wholisticnaturalhealth/

Follow Wholistic Natural Health Australia on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wholisticnaturalhealthaustralia

Get Your Free Root Cause Health Analysis: https://www.wholisticnaturalhealth.com.au/health-assessment-form/

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

Inflammation. It’s a word that gets thrown around a lot, but how much do you know about it?


In this episode of the Midlife Rise + Thrive podcast, special guest Heather Glenn is teaching us the basics of what inflammation is, how to reduce it, and why it’s so important in midlife. Heather and I could talk about this forever, but we intentionally made this episode simple and digestible so that you can find all the information you need to get started in one place. 


Certified Functional Nutritional Therapy Practitioner and Holistic Health Coach Heather Glenn will be your health detective, guide, companion, and biggest cheerleader on the road to reclaiming your health! 


Topics covered in this episode include:

• The type of inflammation that is causing your health problems 
• Practical things you can do to reduce inflammation in your body 
• The easiest ways to make your diet less inflammatory

If you want to find out how your body feels when it’s not in a constant state of inflammation (causing fatigue, aches and pains, mood swings, and more) this is for you.


All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!


Resources Mentioned:

Visit Heather’s Website: www.heatherglenn.com

Follow @heatherglennwellness on Instagram: www.instagram.com/heatherglennwellness

Get Heather’s Free Immunity Booster Meal Plan:: https://www.heatherglenn.com/boost-your-immune-system 

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

Do you feel like you’re in a constant battle with your hormones? What if you could live in harmony with your hormones instead of fighting against them?


In this episode of Midlife Rise + Thrive, we’re learning all about cycle synching from our special guest, Michelle Stiff. Michelle is opening up about her challenging journey with her hormones and what she did when doctors told her she was postmenopausal in her late 20s.


Michelle is a women’s health and fitness coach who teaches women how to reset their metabolism, shed stubborn inches, and regain confidence in their bodies using a hormone-synced flexible macro approach that includes a functional blood chemistry analysis.


Topics covered in this episode include:

• How to heal your hormones and your reproductive system
• The lifestyle habits that will directly impact your menstrual cycle
• What’s causing your weight changes, low libido, and other mystery symptoms 
• How to sync your life to your cycle

Michelle believes in getting to the root cause of your issues instead of relying on Band-Aid solutions. She did it for herself and now she’s going to help you do it too.


All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!


Resources Mentioned:


Learn More About Michelle’s Method: https://www.wellnesselevatetribe.com/metabolicmomentummethod


Join Michelle's Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/wellnesselevate


Follow @michellestiff_wellness on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michellestiff_wellness/


Get Michelle’s Free Guide to Harmonizing Your Hormones: https://affable-fashion-513.myflodesk.com/harnessyourhormones


Sign Up for Michelle’s Free Workshop: https://www.wellnesselevatetribe.com/femalehormoneblueprint 

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

Are you tired of feeling like no matter how many calories you cut, you never lose any weight?


Traditional diets have left many of us women in midlife feeling burnt out, discouraged, and like change is totally unattainable. Enter Joe Hoye with Hoye Fit. In this episode of Midlife Rise + Thrive, Joe is teaching you the weight-loss method that actually works for women in midlife because it was made for us! 


Joe Hoye is the owner of Hoye Fit, a health and weight-loss coaching business for women and moms in midlife. Joe’s method teaches you how to ditch the diets, regain control over your body, and live a lifestyle you enjoy. 


Topics covered in this episode include:

• How Joe found himself surrounded by women in midlife in his career
• The truth about what your body needs in order to change 
• Why starving your body will never get you the results you want

Say goodbye to starving your body and hello to more energy, better sleep, and fewer cravings, all while reaching your weight-loss goals. Sounds too good to be true? Tune in to hear Joe walk you through the process and decide for yourself!


All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!


Resources Mentioned:

Visit Joe’s Website: https://hoyefit.com/

Enter the Giveaway: giveaway.hoyefit.com/rise-thrive

Follow @hoyefit on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hoyefit/

Follow @hoyefit on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hoyefit

Join Joe’s Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/newtritionapproach

Follow Joe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hoye-fit/ 

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

What is true authenticity?


Let’s find out from lightworker and energy healer Cheryl Pace in this episode of Midlife Rise + Thrive. I sat down with Cheryl to talk all about authenticity and what it has to do with the divine feminine. Tune in to hear our conversation and discover what you can do to step into your divine feminine as a woman in midlife. 


Cheryl is a humble servant of the light, healer, shaman, lightworker, massage therapist, mother, daughter, friend, and entrepreneur.


Topics covered in this episode include:

• Ways that you’re giving away your power and how to stop
• Limiting beliefs you’re holding onto without realizing 
• How to step into your divine feminine

What better time than now to listen to your inner voice, lean into your inner wisdom, and reconnect with yourself? If you think you could use some help with that, this is the perfect episode for you.


All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!


Resources Mentioned:


Visit Cheryl’s Website: www.bethechangebethelight.org 

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

Why does society expect you to be invisible in middle age?


If you’re ready to rebel against that idea and reclaim your visibility as a woman in midlife, you’ve come to the right place. Laura Pritchett and I are discussing why women in midlife are overlooked and undervalued in our society and what you can do to become visible again.


Laura is also giving us a sneak peek into her upcoming novel and sharing why she chose to tell the story of a woman entering midlife.


Laura Pritchett is the author of six novels and two nonfiction books, including her latest novel, Three Keys. Both her fiction and nonfiction often focus on issues of ecology, conservation, climate change, and social justice. 


Topics covered in this episode include:

• Lessons Laura has learned about getting comfortable with the aging process 
• How social media could be keeping you from connecting to yourself
• What we want you to know if you’re feeling invisible in middle age 

This is a beautiful episode about the power of storytelling, connection, and showing up for yourself.


All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!


Resources Mentioned:

Visit Laura’s Website: https://www.laurapritchett.com

Follow @laurapritchettauthor on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurapritchettauthor/

Follow Laura on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraPritchettAuthor/ 

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

How do you find products that truly support your health and nutrition in an industry so heavily influenced by trends, sales, and profits?


In this episode of Midlife Rise + Thrive, Dr. Angela Zeng shares her story of innovation, sustainability, and health as she sets out to create a product that would support the overall health of women looking to get to the root of their symptoms. 


Dr. Angela Zeng is the founder of Karviva Wellness Beverages, a line of innovative, health-enhancing beverages that support overall wellness, particularly for women dealing with health issues commonly ignored by the medical field. 


Topics covered in this episode include:

• What you get from functional medicine that you won’t find anywhere else 
• One often overlooked nutrient that has the power to improve your health
• What to look for instead of following health trends 

Tune in to learn how to support your body with the power of nutrition in a beverage.


All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!


Resources Mentioned:

Learn More About Karviva: http://karviva.com

Follow @karvivawellness on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karvivawellness/

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Follow @karvivawellness on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@karvivawellness 

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Are you tired of being told that your troublesome symptoms are just part of being a woman?


Holistic health coach and nutritionist Lea Dombrowski has been there, and she’s joining me in this episode of Midlife Rise + Thrive to share her experience and how she overcame it. You’ll hear Lea talk about the years she spent battling uncomfortable bloating and an autoimmune disease diagnosis before she took matters into her own hands to send her disease into remission and get her health back. 


She knows how you feel, and she’s sharing her story to help you get the same results she did. 


Topics covered in this episode include:

• How Lea sent her autoimmune disease into remission
• Effective nutrition tips to reduce bloating 
• The shocking truth about the blood panels you get at your doctor’s office

If you struggle with bloating, IBS, or skin conditions like acne, this gut health-centered episode has answers for you.


All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!


Resources Mentioned:

Visit Lea’s Website: www.livingwithstrength.com

Follow Lea on Socials and Grab Her Freebies: https://linktr.ee/leadombrowski

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!

Do you have questions about hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in menopause but you don’t know who to ask?


Enter our guest in this episode of Midlife Rise + Thrive, Jennifer Gularson. Jennifer is a functional medicine practitioner who specializes in HRT for perimenopausal and menopausal women, and she’s here to answer your burning questions about HRT.


This is something that isn’t talked about a lot, so it’s no surprise that you have unanswered questions. This episode will provide you with some foundational information about what happens to your hormones during menopause, what HRT can help with, and what HRT might look like in different circumstances. We’re talking about symptoms, benefits, risks, methods, and so much more. 


Topics covered in this episode include:

• The best time to replace hormones 
• Why women need testosterone 
• Benefits of estrogen that you might not know about
• The roles of different hormones in your body

Tune in to get the scoop on all things HRT.


All show notes are available at risingwomanproject.com!


Resources Mentioned:

Visit Jennifer’s Website: yourbestlifewithjennifer.com

Follow @jennifergularson on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jennifergularson/

Follow Jennifer on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennifergularson 

Have a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!