Explore every episode of the podcast Mind Your Midlife | Women Over 40, Menopause, Self Care, Mindset, Empty Nest, Aging Parents, Healthy Habits, Self-Talk

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	Title	Pub. Date	Duration
	108. Pelvic Floor Symptoms Are Treatable, with Dr. Sara Black	30 oct. 2026	00:37:30
Quick Summary: In this episode, Cheryl talks with Dr. Sara Black, a pelvic health physical therapist and founder of Zia Physiotherapy, about pelvic floor symptoms in perimenopause and beyond. You’ll learn why leakage, dryness, urgency, and constipation aren’t just “part of aging,” how pelvic floor therapy and hormone support can work together, and how rapid weight loss on GLP-1s can affect your pelvic floor. Intro: Leakage when you sneeze. Dryness. Planning every car ride around bathroom stops. So many of us quietly put up with pelvic floor symptoms in midlife, and too often we’re told “that’s just how it is.” It isn’t. In this episode, I welcome Dr. Sara Black, a former Division I swimmer turned doctor of physical therapy who specializes in pelvic health. Sara has also worked as a certified personal trainer and licensed massage therapist, and she brings a performance lens to her clinic, Zia Physiotherapy, in Northern Virginia. We talk about what pelvic floor therapy actually looks like, why topical estrogen and vaginal moisturizers matter, how GLP-1s can affect your pelvic floor, and one simple habit you can start today. What You’ll Learn: ✔ Your Symptoms Are Treatable: Why leakage, urgency, heaviness and pain aren’t permanent, and why Sara calls pelvic floor symptoms some of the most treatable ✔ What Pelvic Floor Therapy Really Looks Like: How a good pelvic health PT starts with your story, what the assessment involves, and what sessions include ✔ Hormones, Moisturizers and GLP-1s: How topical estrogen and hyaluronic acid moisturizers support your tissue, and why rapid weight loss can strain your pelvic floor Links & Resources: Zia Physiotherapy: ziaphysio.com Email Sara’s clinic: hello@ziaphysio.com Zia Physiotherapy on Instagram: @ziaphysiotherapy Cheryl’s FREE Self-Care Menu: cherylpfischer.com/selfcaremenu Lucid podcast promotion, $25 off your first month: cherylpfischer.com/lucid Sponsor Mind Your Midlife: cherylpfischer.com/mymsponsorinfo Frequently Asked Questions: What are the signs of pelvic floor dysfunction in midlife? Sara says it can show up as urinary leakage, urgency and frequency, constipation, straining and bloating, pelvic pain, a feeling of heaviness (prolapse), and sexual dysfunction. She adds that it can also be connected to low back, hip, and tailbone pain. Do I just have to live with leakage after menopause? No. Sara says many women are told their symptoms are permanent, but pelvic floor symptoms are very treatable. She says it’s never too late to start, and many women find relief within one or two sessions through education and lifestyle changes. What happens at a pelvic floor physical therapy appointment? Sara says a good pelvic health PT starts with your story: your goals, exercise, sleep, stress and pregnancy history. When appropriate, there’s an internal assessment, and sessions may include hands-on treatment, breathing and pressure strategies, movement retraining and lifestyle changes. She says you should leave knowing why your symptoms are happening. Should women over 40 use vaginal estrogen? In Sara’s opinion, every woman over 40 should use a low-dose topical estrogen cream because declining estrogen affects tissue elasticity, pH, and blood flow. She recommends working with a trusted provider who can weigh your risks and benefits. Do vaginal moisturizers help with dryness? Sara says that if you’re not ready for the hormonal route, a vaginal moisturizer is the bare minimum, and to look for hyaluronic acid as the main ingredient. As she puts it, we care for our faces, so why not our vaginal and vulvar tissue too? Can GLP-1 medications affect the pelvic floor? Sara says weight reduction can help with leakage, prolapse and sexual function, but rapid weight loss may also mean muscle loss, and the pelvic floor is skeletal muscle. She also notes constipation and straining as an under-discussed side effect, and recommends having a pelvic health provider check your baseline. Episode Chapters: 00:00:00 - Why Pelvic Health Matters 00:01:00 - Sponsor Lucid For Podcast Growth 00:01:45 - Common Midlife Pelvic Floor Symptoms 00:06:08 - Hormones And Tissue Changes 00:09:23 - What Pelvic Floor PT Looks Like 00:17:15 - Topical Estrogen And Safer Relief 00:20:06 - Moisturizers And What To Look For 00:22:44 - GLP-1s Weight Loss And Pelvic Impact 00:28:58 - Start With A Bladder Diary 00:32:24 - Build Your Team And Advocate 00:36:07 - Self Care Menu And Closing Music: Cartwheels by Good News Tunes, licensed by Premium Beats. YouTube ID: NOYTHM5TOK62B7JY Why This Episode Matters Pelvic floor symptoms are common in midlife, but they don’t have to stay and they don’t have to get worse. With good information and the right team, you can move, laugh and live without worrying about leaks. This episode is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Please talk with your own healthcare provider about your symptoms and treatment options. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Lucid Podcast Advertising Grow your podcast with promos placed on shows your future listeners already love. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	107. Starting a Sport in Midlife as a Beginner, with Cortnee White	23 oct. 2026	00:40:23
Quick Summary: Cheryl talks with Cortnee White, a sports therapist, mental performance coach, and owner of The Athlete Mind, about the mindset side of starting a sport in midlife. You’ll learn why being a beginner feels so vulnerable, how to get better without making your hobby feel like work, and how to choose a “mind stance” that helps you enjoy the game whether you win or lose. Intro: Maybe it’s pickleball, golf, tennis, or a running club. Starting a sport as a hobby in midlife is good for us. But it can bring up a lot between our ears: comparing ourselves to other people, getting frustrated with ourselves, and feeling like a beginner when we’re good at so many other things. In this episode, I welcome Cortnee White, a sports therapist, mental performance coach, and the owner of The Athlete Mind. Cortnee has been an athlete her whole life, from youth sports to NCAA to fitness competitions and even women’s arena tackle football. Today she helps athletes from kids to pros understand how their mind, body, and behavior work together under pressure. We talk about why competition feels so uncomfortable for some of us, her “no zero” approach to practice, a simple way to handle frustration, and the three mind stances she teaches her athletes. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The Beginner Challenge: Why trying something new in midlife feels so vulnerable, and why you get to decide what this sport means to you ✔ The “No Zero” Approach: How small, focused practice (even five minutes) builds momentum without turning your hobby into a chore ✔ Catch It, Disrupt It, Redirect It: A simple method for handling frustration on the course or court, plus Cortnee’s three mind stances: the Challenger, the Anchor, and the Appreciator Links & Resources: Cortnee’s website: theathletemind.com The Athlete Mind on Instagram: @theathlete_mind This episode’s sponsor, Barre3 Arlington. Your first class is free, and listeners get $10 off a class package with code ARLMINDYOURMIDLIFE. Located in Ballston, Arlington, Virginia. Connect with Cheryl: @cherylpfischer on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook Enjoying the show? Leave a five-star rating and review on Apple Podcasts Frequently Asked Questions: Why is it so hard to be a beginner at a sport in midlife? Cortnee says that by midlife we’ve become competent in many areas, like work and raising children. Starting something new asks us to not be good at something, which feels vulnerable and leads to comparison. What if I don’t like competition? Cortnee says competition asks you to take risks and step into uncertainty, so it can feel uncomfortable. Sometimes there’s a story behind that feeling. Other times competition is just unfamiliar, and anything unfamiliar feels uncomfortable. How can I get better at golf or pickleball without practicing all the time? Cortnee says there’s plenty of room between practicing seriously and not improving at all. She uses a “no zero” approach. On a busy day, five focused minutes on one thing, like your putting setup, still counts and keeps your momentum going. How do I handle frustration when I’m playing a sport? Cortnee teaches “catch it, disrupt it, redirect it.” First, notice and name what’s happening (“I’m starting to rush”). Next, do something physical to release the energy, like gripping and releasing your hands. Then ask yourself what one thing you can control next. What is a mind stance in sports? A mind stance is a mental stance you choose before you play and come back to, the same way you return to your physical stance. Cortnee teaches three: the Challenger takes on the challenge, the Anchor stays steady through the storm, and the Appreciator focuses on joy and meaning. Do I have to be good at a sport for it to be worth doing? No. Cortnee’s main takeaway is that you don’t have to be good at something for it to be good for you. Trying, being courageous, and tolerating the vulnerability of being a beginner are what’s worth focusing on. Episode Chapters: 00:00:00 - Midlife Sports And Mindset Setup 00:04:19 - Why Starting Feels Hard 00:08:31 - Competition And Identity Stories 00:15:20 - Practice Without All Or Nothing 00:21:12 - Frustration Reset Toolkit 00:26:42 - Three Mind Stances For Athletes 00:35:54 - Key Takeaway And Listener Actions Music: Cartwheels by Good News Tunes, licensed by Premium Beats. YouTube ID: NOYTHM5TOK62B7JY Why This Episode Matters: When you let go of having to be good at something, you free yourself to enjoy the game, move your body, and grow in confidence. In Cheryl’s words: do the thing to enjoy the thing. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Barre3 Arlington Barre3 is a guided fitness practice, offering classes that combine strength, cardio, and mindfulness Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	106. Midlife Marriage: When Your Spouse Becomes Your Roommate	16 oct. 2026	00:27:39
Quick Summary: In this episode, Cheryl explores what happens when a midlife marriage quietly drifts into a “roommate” relationship, and why gray divorce is rising. With archival clips from couples expert Dr. Jackie Black, you’ll learn the early signs of disconnection and simple daily habits that help you reconnect, even if you feel like the only one trying. Intro: You’re not fighting. You’re not unhappy, exactly. But somewhere between the busy kid years, work, and aging parents, your marriage started to feel more like a well-run household than a relationship. Then the kids leave, and the house gets very quiet. In this episode, I pick up where last week’s conversation with James Davis left off and look at what’s happening to our relationships in midlife. I bring back clips from my conversation with Dr. Jackie Black, relationship expert, marriage educator, and certified coach, from my earlier podcast. We talk about the “transactional years,” why so many couples drift into being best friends or roommates, what’s behind gray divorce, and the small, intentional habits that can bring you back toward each other. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The Roommate Drift: Why couples who aren’t fighting can still slowly disconnect, and how the empty nest can bring that drift to the surface ✔ Small Daily Connections: Dr. Jackie’s practical ideas for reconnecting, including daily non-sexual touch, saying appreciation out loud, and turning things you already do into shared rituals ✔ When You’re the Only One Trying: Why “he’s still showing up” matters, and how working with a couples counselor or coach can help, even if you go alone Links & Resources: Episode 105 with James Davis (Midlife Mentors) Dr. Jackie Black This episode’s sponsor: Barre3 Arlington, in Ballston, Arlington, VA. Your first class is free, and listeners get $10 off a class package with code ARLMindYourMidlife Episode 103 on drifting through life Connect with Cheryl on social media: @cherylpfischer Frequently Asked Questions: Why do couples start feeling like roommates in midlife? Dr. Jackie explains that during the years with young kids and teens, relationships often become transactional and focus on who’s doing what and when. That’s where a subtle disconnection begins. Many couples aren’t fighting, but a hollowness or boredom sets in. What’s the difference between being “best friends” and being connected as a couple? Dr. Jackie describes “best friend” couples as companionate. They enjoy each other, travel together, and support each other, but the romance, intimacy, and emotional vulnerability have “gone to sleep.” How can I reconnect with my husband after the kids leave home? Dr. Jackie recommends daily non-sexual touch, like a squeeze of the shoulder or hand, telling your partner they matter, and creating rituals around things you already do, like coffee in the morning or a walk together. Cheryl adds that she and her husband deliberately looked for hobbies to share, including biking. How do I know if we’re drifting apart? Cheryl suggests asking yourself when you last had a real conversation, laughed together, or touched on purpose. Not arguing doesn’t mean everything is great, and catching the drift early is key. What is gray divorce, and why is it happening? Cheryl explains that gray divorce refers to couples divorcing later in life. She points to longer lifespans, women’s greater financial independence, re-evaluating life at transitions like the empty nest, and not feeling seen or communicating well. What if I’m the only one trying to fix the relationship? Dr. Jackie says that as long as you’re both still there, there’s still hope, and that “he’s showing up” is enough to start with. Cheryl adds that a couples counselor or coach can still help even if only one of you goes. Episode Chapters: 00:00:00 - Midlife Reality Check And Welcome 00:01:58 - Why The Focus Shifts To Marriage 00:02:53 - How Couples Turn Into Roommates 00:05:26 - Transactional Parenting Years Create Distance 00:07:46 - Empty Nest Boredom And New Hobbies 00:11:51 - Gray Divorce Trends And What Drives It 00:15:36 - Daily Joy Touch Words And Rituals 00:21:20 - When You Feel Like The Only One 00:24:34 - Catch The Drift Before It Grows 00:26:39 - Closing Thoughts And How To Connect Why This Episode Matters Drifting apart rarely happens all at once. Noticing it early and adding small daily moments of connection can change how you see each other and help you choose this next chapter together. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Barre3 Arlington Barre3 is a guided fitness practice, offering classes that combine strength, cardio, and mindfulness Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	105. Why Men Withdraw in Midlife and How to Help Your Husband, with James Davis	09 oct. 2026	00:36:55
Quick Summary: In part one of a two-part mini-series on the men in our lives, Cheryl talks with James Davis, a coaching psychologist, men's health advocate, and author of The Midlife Male Handbook, about what men go through in midlife. You'll learn what andropause is, why many men withdraw instead of talking, and how to gently start a conversation that brings you closer. Intro: We talk a lot on this show about what we're going through in midlife: hormones, adult kids, aging parents, career changes. But what about the men in our lives? Beyond the red-sports-car "midlife crisis" stereotype, there are real changes happening for our husbands, partners, brothers, and friends, and many of them don't have the words to explain it. In this episode, I welcome James Davis, an award-winning coach, coaching psychologist, and men's health advocate with over a decade of experience. James and his wife, Claire, are the Midlife Mentors, hosts of a popular UK podcast focused on midlife health and well-being. James is also the author of The Midlife Male Handbook: A Man's Guide to Thriving Through Andropause. We talk about testosterone decline, why men pull back when they're struggling, and simple ways to reconnect, and maybe even have more fun together. What You'll Learn: ✔ What Andropause Really Is: Why it's not "male menopause," and how a gradual drop in testosterone can affect energy, confidence, motivation, and mood ✔ Why Men Withdraw: How career identity, breadwinner pressure, and a lack of emotional vocabulary can lead men to go quiet instead of opening up ✔ How to Start the Conversation: A gentle, low-pressure way to check in with your partner, plus one simple repair sentence for heated moments Links & Resources: James and Claire's podcast and website, Midlife Mentors: themidlifementors.com James's website: jamespdavis.com James's book: The Midlife Male Handbook: A Man's Guide to Thriving Through Andropause This episode's sponsor, Barre3 Arlington: first class free, plus $10 off a class package with code ARLMindYourMidlife Sponsor Mind Your Midlife: cherylpfischer.com/mymsponsorinfo Frequently Asked Questions: Do men go through menopause? James says no, and calls it a myth worth dispelling. Men experience andropause, an age-related decline in testosterone that happens gradually, so it's often written off as stress, tiredness, or just getting older. Why does my husband seem withdrawn or less confident in midlife? James explains that hormone changes, questions like "Have I achieved what I wanted?", and a lack of emotional vocabulary often hit at the same time. Many men pull back and go quiet until they can figure it out themselves, which can create distance in a relationship. How do I talk to my partner about this without making it a big deal? James suggests picking a calm moment and mentioning what you've noticed, like seeing friends less, without making it about the relationship. Let him know you'd like to work on it together, even if he can't put it into words yet. Should men in midlife get their testosterone tested? James recommends a simple blood test through your doctor, ideally two or three tests since levels fluctuate. If levels are low, he says to start with lifestyle changes: exercise (especially strength training), less sugar and processed food, enough protein, and good sleep. What should men know before starting testosterone replacement therapy (TRT)? James notes that TRT isn't right for some health conditions and can affect fertility. Over time it can shut down the body's own testosterone production, so he says to think of it as a lifelong commitment. How can couples handle perimenopause and andropause at the same time? James says it comes down to compassion: breathe, pause, and don't take things personally. He suggests asking, "What do you need from me right now?" as a simple way to repair a tense moment. Episode Chapters: 00:00:00 - Midlife, Now Including The Men 00:03:59 - What Andropause Looks Like 00:09:14 - Breadwinner Pressure And Fewer Friends 00:16:24 - Starting The Talk Without Pressure 00:18:27 - When Both Partners Are Shifting 00:20:55 - Retirement, Loneliness, And Purpose 00:24:19 - Testosterone Tests And TRT Tradeoffs 00:29:11 - Shared Goals, More Fun, Key Takeaway Why This Episode Matters: When we understand that the men in our lives are going through something real, and may not have the words for it, we can respond with curiosity instead of blame, and build stronger, more connected relationships in this chapter. This episode is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Barre3 Arlington Barre3 is a guided fitness practice, offering classes that combine strength, cardio, and mindfulness Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	104. How to Look Great in Photos & Be Camera Confident After 40, with Helen Rayner	02 oct. 2026	00:44:00
Quick Summary: In this episode, Cheryl talks with Helen Rayner, a camera confidence expert and professional photographer, about why so many women in midlife dread being photographed and what to do about it. You'll learn why phone cameras distort your face, simple posing tricks that flatter, and why the most important thing is simply to be in the picture. Intro: We've all been there. The group photo gets taken, everyone huddles around the phone, and suddenly it's "Oh, not that one!" Most of us are far harder on ourselves in pictures than we would ever be on anyone else, and it's costing us memories. In this episode, I welcome camera confidence expert and professional photographer Helen Rayner. Helen has spent 15 years helping women feel more confident in front of the camera, and her Instagram tips stopped me in my tracks. We talk about why the camera really does lie, how your phone distorts your face, and the simple posing tricks that help you feel great in photos. We also cover why the most important thing you can do is just get in the picture. What You'll Learn: ✔ Why the Camera Lies: How phone lenses warp your face, and the simple trick of holding the camera farther away and zooming in ✔ Posing Tricks That Work: Stand at a 45-degree angle, put your weight on your back foot, leave a little space between your arms and body, and what to do with your hands ✔ Why You Belong in the Photo: How your family and friends see the person they love, not the wrinkles, the arms, or the bad hair day you're fixated on Links & Resources: Helen's Camera Confidence Masterclass (with 20% off for Mind Your Midlife listeners) Helen's Instagram: Helen Rayner Photography Cheryl's Midlife Recharge: cherylpfischer.com/recharge Sponsor: Barre3 Arlington (first class free, plus $10 off a class package with the code ARLMINDYOURMIDLIFE) Interested in sponsoring Mind Your Midlife? cherylpfischer.com/mymsponsorinfo You might also enjoy episode 87 about the mindset of style and episode 82 about how to love your menopause body Frequently Asked Questions: Why do I hate photos of myself? Helen says one reason is that we believe "the camera never lies," so a bad photo becomes our reference point for how we look. In midlife, that lands on top of other insecurities, so we pick out the flaws and avoid being photographed. Why do I look different in photos than in the mirror? The camera turns a 3D image into a flat one, and phone cameras use a wide-angle lens that distorts your face, especially when held close for a selfie. How can I take a more flattering photo with my phone? Have the phone farther from your face and zoom in, which distorts less. Portrait mode gives a blurry background that makes you stand out, but as far as Helen knows, it doesn't fix the distortion. How should I stand to look better in photos? Turn to about a 45-degree angle, put your weight on your back foot, and leave a small gap between your arms and body. Standing straight-on makes you look wider. What do I do with my hands? Hold your fingers lightly in front of your midsection with your arms relaxed. Helen says broadcasters do it, and it looks classy and confident. How do I look good in a group photo? Skip the end of the line, where you'll be closest to the camera. Stand in the middle, angle toward the person next to you, and keep your weight on your back foot. Episode Chapters: 00:00:00 - Why Group Photos Feel So Hard 00:02:12 - Your Brain’s Bias Toward Criticism 00:05:40 - Why Midlife Photos Hit Different 00:18:30 - How Phone Lenses Distort Faces 00:24:45 - Easy Posing Fixes That Work 00:33:27 - Headshots Jawlines And Video Angles 00:37:35 - Be In The Photo For Them 00:43:09 - Masterclass Link Sponsorship And Closing Why This Episode Matters Pictures are memories. When you stop tearing yourself apart in photos and start seeing yourself the way the people who love you do, you stop hiding from the moments that matter most. Be in the picture. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Barre3 Arlington Barre3 is a guided fitness practice, offering classes that combine strength, cardio, and mindfulness Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	103. Are You Drifting on Autopilot? Reclaim Your Power in Midlife	25 sept. 2026	00:25:52
Quick summary: In this solo episode, Cheryl explains why so many women drift through midlife on autopilot, and why it's your brain conserving energy and seeking safety, not laziness. You'll learn how tiny compromises and blame keep you stuck, what "taking 100% responsibility" really means, and simple changes, like brushing your teeth with your other hand, that wake your brain up. Intro Have you ever driven to work or the store, pulled into your parking spot, and suddenly realized you don't remember the drive at all? That is autopilot—and it doesn’t just happen on the road. It happens in our careers, our relationships, and our daily routines. In this episode, Cheryl breaks down what it actually means to "drift" or coast through life. If you find yourself wondering "How the heck did I get here?," you aren't lazy, procrastinating, or flawed; your brain is simply operating on autopilot to conserve energy and keep you safe. We dive into the neuroscience behind midlife coasting, why your brain naturally favors the status quo, and the actionable steps you can take to wake your brain up and take 100% responsibility for your life starting today. What You’ll Learn: What "Drifting" Really Means: How we fall into deep life ruts without even realizing it—and why midlife is the prime time to wake up. The Trap of Micro-Procrastination: How tiny daily compromises like "I'll do it next month" or "I'll wait until summer" keep you stuck. Taking 100% Responsibility: The distinction between accepting fault vs. taking radical agency over your current and future choices. Disrupting the Pattern: Simple, everyday brain exercises (like brushing your teeth with your non-dominant hand) to force your brain off autopilot. Links & Resources: Free Midlife Recharge Strategy Call: cherylpfischer.com/recharge Podcast Sponsorship Information: cherylpfischer.com/mymsponsorinfo Mentioned: Napoleon Hill (Think and Grow Rich), and Bob Proctor. Hypnosis episodes of Mind Your Midlife: episode 69 and episode 89 Mind Your Midlife Episodes 96 and 97 on people pleasing Next Mind Your Midlife episode: Helen Rayner on loving your photos Q&A: What does it mean to drift through midlife? Cheryl describes drifting as living on autopilot: the same routine every day, reacting to what's around you and meeting other people's expectations without asking what you want, until you wonder, "How the heck did I get here?" Is coasting a sign that I'm lazy or flawed? No. Cheryl says your brain favors the familiar because it's trying to keep you safe and save energy. In her words, your brain uses about 20% of your energy while making up about 2% of your body weight. Why do I keep putting off big decisions? Small delays like "next month," "when the kids are older," or "this summer" feel safe. Cheryl says drifting builds from many tiny compromises, not one decision, and that summer rarely brings the free time we expect. What does taking 100% responsibility mean? It isn't blame. You can't control what others do or what happens to you, but you can control your actions, how you view the situation, and your next decisions. Asking for help counts as taking responsibility. How do I get off autopilot? Change small routines: take a different route, reverse your morning order, or brush your teeth with your non-dominant hand. Notice where you're drifting, reset kindly, and make affirmations emotional. Cheryl says to see it and feel it. Episode Chapters: 00:00:00 - Autopilot In Driving And Life 00:01:12 - Listener Reviews And Quick Thanks 00:02:44 - What Drifting Really Means 00:07:09 - Why Midlife Triggers The Wake Up 00:09:29 - The Brain Prefers Safety And Saves Energy 00:12:15 - Fear And Known Patterns Keep You Stuck 00:13:55 - Tiny Compromises And Procrastination Traps 00:16:39 - Letting Others Choose Your Path 00:18:31 - Blame Versus Ownership 00:20:02 - Take 100 Percent Responsibility 00:21:54 - Disrupt Autopilot With Small Changes 00:22:52 - Emotion Makes New Thoughts Stick 00:24:04 - Notice Your Drift And Reset 00:24:52 - Follow Next Week Plus Sponsor Notes 00:25:30 - Closing Reminder For Midlife Care Why This Episode Matters Drifting isn't a character flaw; it's just your brain trying to save energy and keep you safe in the familiar. By taking radical responsibility for where you go next and making small daily tweaks to disrupt your autopilot, you can fully reclaim your energy and focus in midlife. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	102. Changemakers: Back To Work In Midlife After a Career Pause, with Dr. Ann Marie Peters	18 sept. 2026	00:38:05
Quick Summary: In this Changemakers episode, Cheryl talks with Dr. Ann Marie Peters, an executive coach, organizational psychologist, and author of We'll Be Right Back, about returning to work after a career pause. You'll learn why the "part-time myth" catches so many women, how to recognize the skills you built while you were away, and why many women in midlife choose authenticity and balance over climbing the ladder. Intro: Returning to the workforce after a career pause is somewhat common in midlife but we tend to doubt ourselves. We often carry insecurities around our employment gaps and falsely believe our past experiences and accomplishments no longer matter. We don’t even remember some of those achievements! In this episode, I welcome Dr. Ann Marie Peters, an executive coach, leadership strategist, and organizational psychologist. Ann Marie is the author of the brand new book We'll Be Right Back, which focuses on helping women re-enter the workforce after taking a pause. We dive deep into why smart, capable midlife women discount their abilities, the realities of the "part-time myth," and how to translate the hidden skill sets of motherhood and volunteering into a powerful career comeback. What You’ll Learn: The Part-Time Myth: Why squeezing a full-time workload into part-time hours often leads to burnout and how it impacts your career advancement The Hidden Skill Sets of a Pause: How managing households, resolving conflict, and leading community events translate into highly valuable skills for employers The Kaleidoscope Career Model: Why women in midlife naturally shift their professional focus away from just "challenge" and prioritize authenticity and balance Links & Resources: Ann Marie's Book: We'll Be Right Back Ann Marie's Website: annmariepeters.com and the FREE Reflections Workbook: annmariepeters.com/reflection-workbook Ann Marie's Instagram @backwithAMP and LinkedIn annmariepeters Cheryl's Midlife Recharge: cherylpfischer.com/recharge Frequently Asked Questions: How do I return to work after a career break in midlife? Ann Marie recommends starting with reflection: remember and write down your past accomplishments and skills, and what you gained during your pause. Then build the language to describe them on a resume or in a business pitch. She also says to brush up on basics like PowerPoint, Excel, and professional email, as she did when she returned. What is the "part-time myth"? Ann Marie says part-time work often ends up being full-time work squeezed into fewer hours, since a quick email can cascade and your brain keeps working. Based on her research, she adds that some part-time women also lose benefits, bonuses, and promotion opportunities. Why do women leave the workforce, and why is coming back hard? Ann Marie's research found it's rarely just one reason, and not always a first baby. Women cite glass ceilings, pay, lack of challenge, and harassment. Returning can involve resume gaps, the "motherhood penalty," and ageism. Do skills from raising kids or volunteering count with employers? Yes. Ann Marie calls these the "hidden skill sets of motherhood," including managing conflict, people, time, and schedules, and organizing volunteers and events. She and Cheryl also encourage dropping the word "just," as in "just a stay-at-home mom." Is starting a business an easier way back into work? Ann Marie says it isn't easy, since you don't earn income until you have clients. She still found it rewarding, building the marketing, website, and client base from zero with friends. She says many returning women become entrepreneurs, sometimes out of passion and sometimes because they hit roadblocks in their former field. What do women want from work in midlife? Ann Marie describes the kaleidoscope career model, which suggests midlife women care more about authenticity and balance than challenge. In her research, many women who returned to nonprofit work chose it over long hours, wanting work that aligned with their values. Episode Chapters: 00:00:00 - Midlife As A Change Window 00:01:06 - Thriving Mindset And Coaching Offer 00:01:53 - Why Returning Feels So Hard 00:03:15 - Anne Marie’s Career Pause Story 00:11:05 - The Part-Time Myth At Work 00:14:48 - Re-Entry Through Entrepreneurship 00:18:18 - Gaps, Penalties, And Ageism 00:21:10 - Reclaiming Experience And Hidden Skills 00:26:35 - Midlife Priorities Shift To Meaning 00:31:45 - Where To Find The Book 00:32:55 - The One Takeaway To Remember 00:36:00 - Host Wrap And Listener Requests Why This Episode Matters By acknowledging the incredible skills you've built during your career pause and embracing your desire for balance, you can reclaim your professional identity and step confidently into your next chapter. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	101. Menopause Information Overload \| Do Less and Eat More, with Laura Lambe	11 sept. 2026	00:38:59
Quick Summary: In this episode, Cheryl talks with Laura Lambe, a menopause practitioner and founder of the free Menopause Lab, about why menopause advice feels so overwhelming and how to cut through it. You'll learn why Laura says most women need to do less, not more, how to audit the supplements and routines you're using, and why eating enough and lifting weights come before trendy fixes. Intro: It is overwhelming to navigate midlife when your body is changing and everyone is giving conflicting advice about perimenopause. We are constantly bombarded with trendy products and supplements, creating an exhausting cycle of confusion. In this episode, I welcome menopause practitioner and women's health advocate Laura Lambe. Laura is the founder and CEO of Laura Lamb Fitness, Menopause Mastery, and the free worldwide organization, the Menopause Lab. We discuss why women are falling victim to the "pink tax" on menopause products, why chronic under-eating is causing so many symptoms, and how to finally stop collecting information and start implementing simple habits. What You’ll Learn: The Menopause Information Purge: Holding onto too much conflicting advice causes paralysis, and doing less is often the solution. The Truth About Supplements and Nutrition: The supplement industry profits heavily off menopause; Vitamin D is the only universally recommended supplement by the menopause society; and you most likely need to eat more food. Lifting Weights and HRT: Resistance training is non-negotiable for rapidly declining bone density. Hormone therapy is one tool in your toolbox and treats a specific subset of symptoms. Links & Resources: Laura's Menopause Mastery website The [free] Menopause Lab Cheryl's Self-Care Menu: Cherylpfischer.com/selfcaremenu Sponsor the Podcast: CherylPFischer.com/mymsponsorinfo Episode 97: People Pleasing with Lori Montry Frequently Asked Questions: Why is there so much confusing information about menopause? Laura says the push to raise awareness of menopause also drew in people who want to sell products, so "menopause" now gets attached to supplements, skincare, and more. Social media algorithms keep feeding you more of whatever you click. Her tip is to check the source, including whether the person recommending something is also selling it. Do I need supplements for menopause? Laura says to be skeptical. She points to the Menopause Society's position that vitamin D is the one supplement most women need, and treats everything else as an individual decision. She adds that many nutrients, such as calcium, magnesium, fiber, and B12, can come from food. Talk with your own healthcare provider about what fits you. How do I stop feeling overwhelmed by menopause advice? Laura calls it an "information purge." Write down everything you're doing, where each idea came from, what it's meant to treat, and whether it's helped. Then keep only what targets your actual problem. Her example: magnesium may help you fall asleep, but it won't fix 2 a.m. wake-ups or night sweats. What exercise does Laura recommend during menopause? Lifting weights every week, which she says is non-negotiable. She notes that bone density drops sharply during the menopausal transition, and that a weighted vest is far less effective than actual weight training. You don't need a perfect routine. Classes, a session with a trainer to check your form, or free online videos all work. Could I be undereating in midlife? Laura says many women who've dieted for years are eating too little. She says a simple baseline is three balanced meals a day plus at least two snacks, with carbohydrates, protein, fats, and vegetables or fruit. She links underfueling to fatigue and brain fog. Is hormone therapy (HRT) right for everyone? Laura says she's pro-options, not pro-HRT-for-every-woman. She explains that HRT treats only some menopause symptoms and works best alongside good nutrition and strength training. She stresses that women who can't take it, don't tolerate it, or don't want it still deserve answers and other tools. Disclaimer: This episode is for education only and isn't medical advice. Talk with your healthcare provider about your own situation. Episode Chapters: 00:00:00 - Midlife Changes And Overwhelm 00:03:06 - The Menopause Marketing Noise 00:10:25 - Exercise Trends Versus Real Strength 00:13:07 - Escaping The Information Collection Cycle 00:18:37 - Self Advocacy With Doctors 00:22:36 - Hormone Therapy Without The Hype 00:25:09 - Eating Enough To Support Menopause 00:30:44 - The Menopause Lab Free Community 00:32:33 - The Takeaway: Audit And Do Less 00:36:41 - Closing Thoughts And Self Care Menu Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	100 Episodes of Mind Your Midlife: Brain Fog, Bloopers, Body Image, and Finding Your Joy	04 sept. 2026	00:26:04
Quick Summary: Episode 100 of Mind Your Midlife is a solo celebration. Cheryl Fischer shares behind-the-scenes bloopers, revisits the listener-favorite episodes on memory, movement, hydration, complaining, decluttering, body image, community, people-pleasing, and getting clear on what you want, and previews what's coming this fall. The message running through all of it: it's not just you, and you can roll with the messy parts of midlife. Intro: Reaching episode 100 of Mind Your Midlife is a massive milestone! In this episode, I am celebrating by sharing some behind-the-scenes bloopers, revisiting some of the most popular tips from past guests, and looking ahead to what is coming next. From navigating brain fog and hot flashes to the life-changing power of hydration and finding community, we are covering the best of what makes midlife manageable and fun. What You’ll Learn: Embracing the Messy Middle: Why rolling with brain fog, tech glitches, and hot flashes with a sense of humor is the ultimate midlife survival tool. The Power of "It's Not Just You": How overcoming the isolation of midlife struggles—like memory lapses and shifting body image—builds confidence and connection. Game-Changing Habits: The critical importance of movement for preserving bone density and strength, why proper hydration and electrolytes directly impact your sleep, and how dropping the complaining habit protects your energy. Finding Your Destination: Why you must stop letting your wagon wheels stay in the rut and give yourself permission to figure out what you actually want next. The People-Pleasing Check: How to evaluate if you are actually on the list of the people you are trying so hard to please. Links & Resources: Vitamin G Sponsor: cherylpfischer.com/vitaming (Use code MINDYOURMIDLIFE for 10% off) The Free Self-Care Menu: cherylpfischer.com/selfcaremenu Podcast Sponsorship Info: cherylpfischer.com/mymsponsorinfo Cheryl's Instagram: @CherylPFischer FAQ Is forgetfulness in midlife a sign of dementia? Cheryl explains that in the vast majority of cases it isn't. Brain fog and forgetfulness are often tied to hormone changes plus a lot going on and plenty of distractions. Episode 31 covers this in depth. Why is movement more important in midlife? It supports bone density, strength, muscle tone, and flexibility, and it prepares you to get out of your chair at 80. The key is finding something fun you don't hate (episodes 22, 52, and 54). What should I do if I wake up at 2 a.m. feeling hungry? Keep water next to your bed and drink it first. As Kristen Coffield shared in episode 20, you may be thirsty rather than hungry, and some listeners report going back to sleep and skipping the midnight snack. How do I stop complaining as a habit? Vent when you need to, then catch yourself and switch to a positive topic, such as weekend plans or your next vacation (episode 80). What's coming next on the show? Episodes on starting or returning to a sport in midlife, feeling good in photos, the men in our lives, financial planning, pelvic health, and more. Episode Chapters: 00:00:00 - Episode 100 Kickoff 00:01:03 - Sponsor Spotlight Vitamin G 00:01:39 - Bloopers And Losing The Thread 00:05:12 - Rolling With Midlife Messiness 00:06:31 - Brain Fog Reassurance That Helps 00:07:36 - Nostalgia Gratitude And Cringe Memories 00:09:40 - Movement Habits That Actually Stick 00:12:48 - Hydration Electrolytes And Better Sleep 00:14:13 - Stop Complaining And Clear The Clutter 00:17:10 - Body Image Community And People Pleasing 00:21:15 - Get Clear On What You Want 00:23:34 - What Is Coming Next And Resources Why This Episode Matters You are never alone in the challenges of midlife. Whether you need to hydrate better, find a new hobby, or simply laugh at your own bloopers, you have the power to take a little bit better care of yourself. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Vitamin G Antioxidant Supplement Glutathione may help boost your immune system, clear up brain fog, and support overall wellness. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	99. Is Wine Your Coping Mechanism? Drink Less Without Going Cold Turkey, with Colleen Freeland	28 août 2026	00:36:26
There is a middle ground with alcohol that affects so many of us in midlife: we're not dealing with addiction, but we often wake up feeling guilty, tired, and stuck in a cycle of habitual drinking. We tell ourselves we’ll stop, only to pour another glass to take the edge off a stressful day. In this episode, I welcome Colleen Freeland, founder of Emotional Sobriety Coaching and host of the It's Not About the Alcohol podcast. We discuss why high-functioning women use alcohol to cope, the difference between positive and negative reinforcement, and how to retrain your brain using mindfulness rather than willpower. What You’ll Learn: The Root of the Habit: Drinking too much is not self-indulgent. It is actually a symptom of self-neglect and a way to cope with running on a deficit. The Restriction Trap: Using willpower to avoid alcohol can feel like a Chinese finger cuff, where the harder you pull away, the tighter it gets. If you do not solve the underlying pattern, you will simply switch to another coping mechanism. The "Delay, Don't Deny" Strategy: You can learn to delay pouring a drink by taking five to fifteen minutes to do something else that invites pleasure. This practice helps retrain your brain and rebuilds neural pathways without requiring strict, all-or-nothing abstinence. Links & Resources: Episode Sponsor Vitamin G (Use code MINDYOURMIDLIFE for 10% off at Cherylpfischer.com/vitaminG) Colleen's Quiz and Website: emotionalsobrietycoaching.com Colleen's Podcast: It's Not About the Alcohol Colleen's Instagram: @thehangoverwhisperer Take Colleen's quiz: What type of drinker are you? Episode 83: Tricia Nelson on Emotional Eating Episode Chapters: 00:00:00 - The Wine Guilt Cycle 00:01:33 - Sponsor Break Vitamin G 00:02:07 - Midlife Sleep And The Tipping Point 00:04:40 - Meet Colleen And Emotional Sobriety 00:06:53 - Too Much Drinking As Self Neglect 00:10:06 - Positive Vs Negative Reinforcement 00:14:17 - Why Cold Turkey Can Backfire 00:18:10 - Delay Don’t Deny And New Pleasures 00:22:21 - Nervous System Tools Over Willpower 00:25:21 - Mindfulness And Reconnecting To Your Body 00:29:55 - Where To Find Colleen And The Quiz 00:34:27 - Key Takeaways And Closing Reflection Why This Episode Matters By recognizing that your drinking habits might just be a coping mechanism for a busy, stressful life, you can strip away the guilt and start giving yourself the grace you deserve. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Vitamin G Antioxidant Supplement Glutathione may help boost your immune system, clear up brain fog, and support overall wellness. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	98. The Truth About Friendship Loss and Changing Social Circles in Midlife	21 août 2026	00:34:03
Friendship change or loss is something that we rarely talk about enough during our 40s and 50s. We often feel guilty when we realize we are outgrowing the people we used to spend our time with, or we wonder why we simply don't have the same energy to maintain our social circles. In this episode, let's talk about the complicated evolution of midlife friendships. Shifts are happening as our kids grow up, after the pandemic, and even as hormone changes happen. I finally learned to evaluate which relationships were uplifting and which were actually draining my energy. If you've been wondering why you just don't have the bandwidth for certain friends anymore, this episode will give you the permission you need to let go gracefully and without guilt. What You’ll Learn: The Midlife Friendship Shift: How kids getting older, moving out, and changes in post-COVID life naturally alter the people we spend time with The Hormone Factor: Why dropping levels of estrogen and oxytocin can make you biologically less inclined to nurture as many relationships The Zero Tolerance Milestone: How recognizing your time and energy as limited resources empowers you to stop shrinking yourself in imbalanced friendships Evaluating Your Inner Circle: A simple, judgment-free method to check how you truly feel—before, during, and after—spending time with a friend Gracefully Letting Go: The difference between taking a friendship "breather" due to circumstances versus moving on using "warm detachment" Links & Resources: Vitamin G Sponsor: Use code MINDYOURMIDLIFE for 10% off at CherylPFischer.com/vitaminG Coaching: Midlife Recharge: CherylPFischer.com/recharge Episode 61: Mahjong in Midlife Podcast Sponsorship Info: CherylPFischer.com/mymsponsorinfo Why This Episode Matters By dropping the guilt and honestly evaluating how your friendships make you feel, you can completely change your social circle to one that truly supports you. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Episode Chapters: 00:00:00 - The Friendship Question In Midlife 00:00:57 - Sponsor Break Vitamin G 00:01:33 - Why Friendships Change With Kids 00:03:59 - COVID And Moving Disrupt Connections 00:07:12 - Hormones And The Zero Tolerance Shift 00:11:55 - Trying To Fit In As A Mom 00:14:03 - The Before During After Feelings Test 00:18:22 - Space Or Over Signs Of Imbalance 00:22:12 - Fade Out Or Have The Talk 00:26:31 - Guilt And Disenfranchised Grief 00:28:11 - Group Friends And Warm Detachment 00:31:18 - Making Room For Better Community 00:32:20 - Coaching Invite And Closing Notes Vitamin G Antioxidant Supplement Glutathione may help boost your immune system, clear up brain fog, and support overall wellness. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	97. Are You One Of The People You Try To Please (Part 2 of 2), with Lori Montry	14 août 2026	00:39:58
People pleasing is a habit that affects so many of us in midlife, often masquerading as kindness or duty. While we all want to care for our loved ones, it becomes a problem when it constantly drains our energy, causes stress, and negatively impacts our nervous system. In this episode, which is part two of our two-week focus on the topic, I welcome Lori Montry. Lori is an author, a somatic practitioner, an educator, and the founder of the You're Not the Problem movement. We dive deep into why people pleasing is actually a nervous system adaptation designed for safety, why simply trying to force boundaries usually backfires, and how midlife provides the perfect opportunity to finally step into the starring role of your own life. What You’ll Learn: The Safety Strategy: Why people pleasing isn't a character defect, but rather an evolutionary adaptation wired into our DNA to keep us safe and connected. Alignment vs. Capacity: How to evaluate your "yeses" by asking yourself not only if a choice aligns with your values, but if you actually have the energetic capacity for it. The Midlife Shift: How the decline of estrogen and the natural transitions of our 40s and 50s give us the internal push to explore what we truly want in our next phase of life. Links & Resources: Sponsor: Get 10% off Vitamin G with code MINDYOURMIDLIFE Lori's Website & Free Resources: lorimontry.com Lori's book: You're Not the Problem Listen to Part 1: Episode 96 Cheryl's Midlife Recharge: cherylpfischer.com/recharge Episode Chapters: 00:00:00 - Intro To People Pleasing 00:01:11 - Sponsor Vitamin G 00:01:47 - Part Two Focus And Guest 00:04:16 - Lori’s Pivot From Law 00:09:42 - What People Pleasing Really Means 00:12:39 - When Pleasing Becomes A Safety Plan 00:16:13 - Why You Cannot Just Stop 00:20:01 - Stop Being A Supporting Character 00:21:31 - Midlife Pressures And Hormone Shifts 00:23:34 - Change Without Fighting Yourself 00:27:25 - Values Versus Capacity In Real Life 00:31:03 - Weekly Review And Body Wisdom 00:32:47 - Somatics And Where To Find Lori 00:39:07 - Closing Thoughts And Intuition Reminder Why This Episode Matters By understanding that your people-pleasing habits were originally designed to protect you, you can stop fighting yourself and start gently guiding your nervous system toward true authenticity. It’s time to stop being a supporting character and become the main character in your own life. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Vitamin G Antioxidant Supplement Glutathione may help boost your immune system, clear up brain fog, and support overall wellness. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	96. How to Stop People Pleasing and Start Trusting Yourself in Midlife (Part 1 of 2)	07 août 2026	00:33:15
There is a habit that drains the energy of so many women in their 40s and 50s, yet we struggle to break free from it: people-pleasing. We often spend our days managing what other people are feeling, worrying about being perceived as rude, and agonizing over every decision so we don't upset anyone. In this episode, we tackle the exhaustion of constantly accommodating others and avoiding conflict. This is part one of a two-part series on people-pleasing (so stay tuned next week as well!). We dive into why Generation X women were often conditioned to be agreeable "good girls," how always saying yes drains your self-trust, and actionable ways to shift from simply being "nice" to being truly kind. What You’ll Learn: The Root of People-Pleasing: Discover how "good girl" conditioning and a subconscious desire to control other people's emotions drive us to be accommodating. The Hidden Costs of Always Saying Yes: Learn how saying yes when you mean no builds up a "resentment account" that eventually leads to passive-aggressive behavior or burnout. The Erosion of Self-Trust: Understand how constantly deferring to other people's instincts and decisions causes you to stop trusting your own gut feelings and opinions. How to Stop Over-Apologizing: Get practical strategies to replace unnecessary apologies with expressions of gratitude, and learn why it is not your job to fix it when someone gets upset about your boundaries. Episode Chapters: 00:00 - Are You A People Pleaser 04:01 - Rude Vs Nice Vs Kind 09:42 - Why We Default To Nice 14:35 - The Hidden Costs Of Pleasing 22:15 - Spot The Pattern In Real Time 26:43 - Let People Feel Their Feelings 31:20 - Midlife Is Too Short Links & Resources: Cheryl's Midlife Recharge: cherylpfischer.com/coaching Episode 93 with Ellen Baker: Good Girl Conditioning Episode 95 with Stephanie Malia Krauss: Dealing with Depletion and Burnout Episode 97: Somatic Healing for People-Pleasing (Coming Next Week!) Why This Episode Matters By learning to stop managing other people's emotions, you can rebuild your self-trust and stop draining your mental energy on worry. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	95. Depletion vs Burnout and How to Reclaim Your Energy in Midlife, with Stephanie Malia Krauss	31 juil. 2026	00:46:10
The constant, crushing overwhelm of modern life affects so many of us in our 40s and 50s, yet we tend to internalize it as if it's our personal issue. We often feel like we are failing to balance it all, caught between caring for aging parents and raising children, all while dealing with our own midlife body changes, career pressures, and a 24-hour news cycle designed to keep us hooked. In this episode, I welcome author, speaker, and strategist Stephanie Malia Krauss. Stephanie is the author of How We Thrive, a book exploring the urgent need to protect our "human essentials"—like sleep, connection, and play—which modern life constantly restricts. We dive deep into why midlife feels like "compressed, catastrophic living," the four "storms" of modern life that are depleting us, and how to practice "rehumaning" to finally replenish your energy. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The Four Storms of Modern Life: How being overtapped, overworked, overstimulated, and overwrought combine to create extreme volatility and drain our energy. ✔ The "Third Quarter" Squeeze: Why navigating a 100-year lifespan means midlife women are managing complex obligations for themselves as well as loved ones in their first, second, and fourth quarters of life. ✔ The Practice of Rehumaning: How to protect your 14 human essentials through reflexive, routine, radical, and rapid everyday choices. ✔ Depletion vs. Burnout: The empowering realization that feeling depleted is not the same as being burned out, meaning you actually have the power to be replenished. Episode Chapters: 00:00 - Constant Stress In Modern Midlife 02:25 - Grab The Self-Care Menu 06:10 - Why These Storms Hit Caregivers 12:30 - The Four Over Conditions Explained 20:10 - Humane Tech And Breaking The Hook 26:20 - What Rehumaning Means In Practice 33:40 - Easy Wins For Sleep And Connection 39:50 - Reflexive Routine Radical Rapid Rehumaning 44:40 - When You Need Help Or Change 47:20 - Depletion Not Burnout Final Takeaway Links & Resources: Cheryl's Free Self-Care Menu: cherylpfischer.com/selfcaremenu Stephanie's Website & Free Resources: rehumaning.com Stephanie's Book: How We Thrive Why This Episode Matters By understanding that your exhaustion isn't a personal failing, but rather a reaction to an unnatural modern world, you can begin to reclaim your human essentials. Small, simple shifts can right-size your life and replenish your spirit for the decades to come. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	94. Resilience and Hope When There Is No Happy Ending	24 juil. 2026	00:30:56
Many of us in midlife are navigating situations with no happy ending. We struggle with how to stay positive when facing the harsh realities of aging parents, chronic illness, or deep loss. In this episode, a follow-up to the popular conversation on "getting your hopes up" (Episode 86), I explore what happens when the hard thing happens anyway. I'm sharing my personal journey of navigating my mom's Parkinson's diagnosis, the ongoing grieving process we face as caregivers, and why falling into the pessimism trap only makes things harder. We dive into redefining hope, understanding true resilience, and how to safely process the heavy emotions that come with midlife challenges. What You’ll Learn: ✔ Scalable Hope: How to redefine getting your hopes up when there isn't a magic fix by looking forward to small moments ✔ The True Meaning of Resilience: Why bouncing back doesn't mean ignoring pain, and how having a healthy relationship with resilience prevents you from feeling defeated ✔ Processing Pain Safely: Why shoving down negative emotions leads to physical symptoms, and actionable tools—like tapping, journaling, or finding "glimmers"—to help you feel and release the hard stuff Episode Chapters: 00:00:00 - Getting Hopes Up Part Two 00:02:29 - Why Lowering Expectations Hurts Twice 00:04:00 - When There Is No Happy Ending 00:05:45 - Caring For A Sick Parent 00:09:39 - Redefining Hope In Small Wins 00:13:11 - What Resilience Really Means 00:17:55 - Stop Ignoring The Hard Feelings 00:25:59 - Glimmers Self Care And Next Steps Links & Resources: Episode 86: Don't Get Your Hopes Up Story Cycle Resource: The Wheel of Emotions Menu of Self-Care Options: cherylpfischer.com/self-care-menu Midlife Coaching: cherylpfischer.com/recharge Why This Episode Matters By stripping away the pressure to just "be happy" and instead allowing ourselves to process pain, we build the true resilience needed to navigate midlife's toughest challenges. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	93. Escaping the Good Girl Trap and Rewriting Your Midlife Story, with Ellen Baker	17 juil. 2026	00:37:29
There is a perfect storm of transitions that hits women in our 40s, 50s, and 60s: kids leaving home, aging parents, prep for retirement, and menopause. With so much happening at once, it is completely normal to feel frustrated, unfulfilled, or a little bit lost. We often spend our days running on an exhausting loop of "I have to" and forget that we actually have a choice. In this episode, I welcome successful novelist and mindset coach Ellen Baker. Ellen is the author of four novels, including her latest release, Summerland Cove, and the creator of the Next Chapter Studio. We dive into how the "good girl" conditioning keeps us playing small, why we need to stop outsourcing our authority to others, and how to rewrite your beliefs so you can finally become the main character in your own life. What You’ll Learn: ✔ "Good Girl" Conditioning: How ingrained beliefs to stay small, blend in, and constantly prove ourselves keep us stuck in an exhausting cycle. ✔ Outsourcing Authority: How to recognize when you are giving your power away by constantly scanning the room to fix everyone else's problems. ✔ The Power of a Small Pivot: Why making a tiny, one-degree shift in your choices—like asking yourself what you need in the moment—can completely change the trajectory of your life. Episode Chapters: 00:00:00 - Escaping The 'Have To' Loop 00:01:05 - Inner Circle And Support Space 00:02:13 - Why Midlife Can Feel Lost 00:04:38 - Ellen Baker’s Reinvention Story 00:12:51 - Emotions Point To Misalignment 00:16:46 - The Belief That Blocks Rest 00:23:25 - Author Your Life With Authority 00:27:31 - Trading Obligation For Choice 00:31:10 - Fictional Mirror And Tiny Pivots 00:34:02 - Find Ellen And Closing Reminder Links & Resources: Ellen's Website: Ellenbakernovels.com The Next Chapter Studio: EllenbakerNovels.com/studio Ellen's Instagram: @EllenBakerNovels Ellen's Book: Summerland Cove Why This Episode Matters By checking in with your own needs and changing your internal narrative from "I have to" to "I choose to," you can reclaim your agency and find peace even amid midlife chaos. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. --------------- Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	92. Assuming What Others Think is a Trap; The Story in Your Head May Be Wrong	10 juil. 2026	00:20:59
Have you ever been in a situation where you are absolutely convinced, 100% convinced, that you know what someone else is thinking about you? I think the answer to that for all of us is yes! We convince ourselves we know what our partners, bosses, or friends are thinking, and it causes us a lot of unnecessary struggle. Today we're diving into the mind-reading cognitive distortion—the false belief that we know exactly what is going on in someone else's head. Drawing on insights from Tara Mohr's book, Playing Big, we explore why women are so conditioned to care about what others think, how we project our own insecurities onto the people around us, and actionable ways to step out of this mental trap. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The "Mind-Reading" Distortion: Why we falsely believe we know what someone else is thinking and why we almost always assume it's negative. ✔ The Projection Trap: How our own uncomfortable feelings and insecurities—like worrying about our changing midlife bodies or learning new skills—are often projected onto others as a defense mechanism. ✔ The Power of the "Boring" Explanation: How to challenge your assumptions by looking for simple, everyday reasons for someone else's behavior. ✔ Unhooking from Criticism: Why the feedback you receive actually tells you more about the person giving it than it does about you. Episode Chapters: 00:00 - The trap of being convinced you know what others are thinking 03:43 - Real-life struggles and the "mind-reading" cognitive distortion 07:10 - How we project our midlife insecurities onto our spouses and bosses 10:52 - Lessons from Tara Mohr's Playing Big and unhooking from praise 13:41 - Relational focus, good girl conditioning, and why we care so much 19:11 - Finding the evidence and the "boring" explanation for people's behavior 20:50 - Changing your perspective on negative feedback and trusting your gut Links & Resources: Grab Tara's book Playing Big here: cherylpfischer.com/read Why This Episode Matters By recognizing that you cannot truly know what other people are thinking, you can free yourself from the exhausting cycle of seeking external validation. Trust your gut, trust the simplest explanations, and avoid letting imagined judgments hold you back. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	91. Meditation Even When You Can't Stop Overthinking, with Lauri Stern	03 juil. 2026	00:37:12
We know that meditation could help with the stress and upheaval of midlife (or we've at least heard that somewhere). Yet, so many of us feel like we just can't stop our brains from running a mile a minute, leaving us feeling guilty that we can't get meditation right. Today energetic wellness strategist and yoga teacher Lauri Stern joins me to help. Lauri is the host of The Real and the Woo podcast and the founder of Custom Designed Wellness. We discuss a totally different approach to mindfulness, how to release the pressure of sitting perfectly still, and how to use your body to uncover the hidden beliefs holding you back. What You’ll Learn: The Power of Chaos Meditation: Why giving your mind a dedicated container to go crazy and think all the loud thoughts is exactly what you need to calm down. Uncovering Limiting Beliefs: How to use your body's physical reactions post-meditation as a barometer to find out what is truly bothering you. Meditating in Motion: Why you don't have to sit on a rock to be mindful, and how activities like riding a bike, gardening, and dancing can be your best meditation practices. Episode Chapters: 0:00 Hook And Why Meditate 1:16 What Meditation Really Means 2:30 Meet Lari Stern 3:26 Chaos Meditation Explained 10:19 Regulate After The Timer 15:03 Journaling To Spot Limiting Beliefs 23:21 Releasing Beliefs With Compassion 27:20 Moving Meditation And Joy Tools 33:05 You Matter Grounding And Next Steps 36:37 Host Wrap And Share Request Links & Resources: Lauri's Free Energetic Assessment and website: customdesignedwellness.com Connect with Lauri on Substack, Instagram, and Facebook Listen to the laughter yoga episode (episode 6) Connect with Cheryl on Instagram and LinkedIn: @cherylpfischer Why This Episode Matters By giving yourself permission to feel all the feels and ditching the idea of meditation perfection, you can finally hit the pause button and stop living on autopilot. You matter. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	90. Is Gratitude Just Toxic Positivity? No - and It Will Change Your Midlife	26 juin 2026	00:27:25
Has anyone ever suggested you write down three things you're grateful for every night—and you totally resisted the idea? We've all heard the buzz about gratitude, but sometimes it just feels like another chore on our to-do list, or worse, a push for "toxic positivity." In this episode, we are busting the myths surrounding gratitude. We'll explore why feeling thankful doesn't mean ignoring life's hard stuff, and how simple practices can literally rewire your brain to help you feel calmer and more focused. Let's learn how to find those little moments of joy without the pressure. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The Toxic Positivity Trap: Why true gratitude allows you to feel the sad and frustrated emotions without just glossing over them. ✔ Busting Gratitude Myths: Discover why being thankful won't make you complacent or diminish the hard work you've put into your goals. ✔ The Brain Science of Appreciation: How practicing gratitude releases dopamine and serotonin, calms your brain's alarm system (the amygdala), and helps you respond instead of react. ✔ Embracing Glimmers: How to easily incorporate gratitude into your busy midlife by noticing and feeling tiny moments of joy. Episode Chapters: 00:00 - Resisting the gratitude journal and my calendar quirk 03:15 - What are glimmers and how do they rewire our brains? 06:46 - Busting gratitude myths and the toxic positivity trap 16:03 - The brain science: Dopamine, serotonin, and calming the amygdala 24:26 - Simple ways to practice gratitude when midlife gets messy 26:39 - Free self-care menu and a sneak peek at next week's episode Links & Resources: Free Resource: Cheryl's Self-Care Menu Listen to Last Week: Episode 89 with Christina on Hypnotherapy and Changing Subconscious Beliefs Why This Episode Matters By shifting your focus to small moments of joy, you can naturally rewire your brain to build emotional resilience and find inner strength, even when midlife feels overwhelming. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	89. Changemakers: Hypnotherapy to Find Purpose in Midlife, with Christina L. Woods	19 juin 2026	00:42:34
When we hit our forties and fifties, we often look around, realize our lives are pretty good, and still notice a sense of dissatisfaction or restlessness. Then, we feel guilty for feeling that way because we know how blessed we are to have families, friends, and careers we (at least) like. In this Changemakers episode, I'm joined by Christina L. Woods, a clinical hypnotherapist, subconscious transformation expert, and former corporate executive. Christina specializes in helping high achievers close the gap between outer success and inner fulfillment. We dive into why smart, capable midlife women often feel burned out, why traditional logic isn't enough to break our ingrained habits, and how hypnotherapy can help you safely rewrite your underlying beliefs to find true purpose. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The Power of the Subconscious: How hypnotherapy quiets the analytical mind—which is only 5% of how our mind operates—to access the 95% of our emotional, subconscious mind where real change happens. ✔ The Identity Trap: Why we feel guilt when our different roles (like being a dedicated mom and a businesswoman) conflict, and how to teach your mind it is safe to be both. Episode Chapters: 00:00 - The midlife guilt of feeling unfulfilled in a "good" life 05:05 - Christina's burnout and transition from the corporate world 11:33 - How to find your purpose by remembering what brought you joy as a kid 15:55 - How hypnotherapy actually works and why it isn't scary 23:48 - You don't lose control in hypnosis; you gain it back 26:18 - Why logic can never trump your subconscious mind 31:18 - A real-life example: The surprising root cause of night snacking 36:18 - How to get curious about your own blocks 38:26 - Why midlife is the perfect time to trust your intuition Links & Resources: Christina's Website: ChristinaLWoods.com Free Weekly Hypnosis (The Reset Room): ChristinaLwoods.com/theresetroom Cheryl's Free Story Cycle Resource: Cherylpfischer.com/storycycle Episode 69: Hypnosis for Menopause with Sarah Rubens Why This Episode Matters By stripping away the fear and myths surrounding hypnotherapy and giving it a try, you can finally quiet your inner critic, release the guilt of wanting more, and connect with the wisdom and intuition you've gained in midlife. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	88. Are You Thinking Yourself Older Faster? Mindset and Aging	12 juin 2026	00:23:50
Have you ever wondered why two people who are both 55 years old can look and act completely different, with one appearing ten years younger and the other seeming far older? In this episode, we explore the fascinating connection between our minds and the aging process to ask: are we actually thinking ourselves into old age? Drawing inspiration from the book Psycho-Cybernetics by Maxwell Maltz, we're talking about how accepting the artificial belief that we are "old" causes us to slow down, which physically accelerates aging. We dive into why maintaining physical movement and developing a powerful "nostalgia for the future" are the true secrets to feeling vibrant, mobile, and excited about your next chapter. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The Danger of Acting "Old": How cutting back on physical activity due to expectations of age restricts capillaries, minimizes blood supply to tissues, and causes joint flexibility loss. ✔ Nostalgia for the Future: Why looking forward to the years ahead—and developing an enthusiasm for life—creates a mental shift that affects your body, healing, and everyday choices. ✔ The Truth About Your Brain: How the outdated concept that our mental powers decline after age 25 is completely false, and why we actually maintain our peak mental abilities until well past 70. Episode Chapters: 00:00 - Midlife, mindset, and the perception of aging 01:34 - Lessons from Psycho-Cybernetics on self-image 03:58 - How slowing down physically ages the body 10:55 - The physical benefits of looking forward to the future 18:08 - Finding new hobbies and building "nostalgia for the future" 22:32 - Wrap-up and a preview of next week's hypnotherapy episode Links & Resources: Cheryl's Reading List: cherylpfischer.com/read Featured Book: Psycho-Cybernetics by Maxwell Maltz Cheryl's Skincare Recommendations: cherylpfischer.com/recommendations Cheryl's Instagram: @CherylPFischer Why This Episode Matters By shifting how you think about your age and actively looking forward to what is to come, you can profoundly change how your body ages from the inside out. Remember that midlife is your time to take a little bit better care of yourself. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	87. The Mindset of Style and How to Like the Way You Look, with Jennifer Mackey Mary	05 juin 2026	00:46:41
Do you feel like your body is changing, nothing fits right, and it’s easier to just wear pajama pants with a professional shirt for your Zoom calls? Giving up on getting dressed takes a heavy toll on how we feel about ourselves. In this episode, I welcome style expert Jennifer Mackey Mary. Jennifer is the founder of Everyday Style and host of the top 10 podcast, The Everyday Style School. We dive into why mindset is the critical first step to style, how to confidently dress a changing midlife body, and why looking good is directly tied to feeling good. What You’ll Learn: The Real Meaning of Style: Why dressing well doesn't mean dressing up in uncomfortable clothes, and why style matters most when no one else is watching. Dressing Your Changing Shape: How to stop hiding behind oversized fabric, ditch traditional body shape labels, and use clothing elements to highlight what you love. Where Style Actually Starts: Why shopping should be your very last step, and how choosing three words to describe how you want to look can transform your closet. Episode Chapters: 00:00 - The mindset around style and getting dressed 02:51 - Redefining what dressing well means 08:12 - Why invisibility as we age is a choice 11:58 - How to dress when your body and shape start to change 21:32 - Simple tricks to highlight your waist and hide your tummy 29:00 - The crucial three steps to style before you ever go shopping 36:15 - Building a cohesive wardrobe that feels like you 40:30 - Why life is better when you like the way you look Links & Resources: Jennifer's Free Class: Style Made Simple (freestyleclass.com) Jennifer's Website: youreverydaystyle.com Jennifer's Podcast: The Everyday Style School Cheryl's Instagram: @cherylpfischer Why This Episode Matters: By changing your style operating system and choosing to show up for yourself, you can start loving your clothes no matter what the tag says. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	86. Get Your Hopes Up and Stop Bracing for Disappointment in Midlife	29 mai 2026	00:32:47
Have you ever thought about how often you say or think the phrase, "don't get your hopes up"? In midlife, dealing with career pivots, aging parents, and changing bodies, we often use this concept as a shield to protect ourselves. But what if lowering your expectations actually hurts you more? In this episode, I dive into why "don't get your hopes up" is one of my least favorite phrases and why it's time to start getting excited about life again. We explore the evolutionary psychology behind our negativity bias, why we pre-experience pain through defensive pessimism, and the real clinical science behind hope. What You’ll Learn: The Disappointment Trap: When we lower our expectations to protect ourselves, we force ourselves to live the disappointment before it even happens. The Science of Hope: Clinical research shows hope is an active cognitive process that requires goals, agency, and pathways. Having high hopes is linked to better stress management and lower anxiety. Episode Chapters: 00:00 - The problem with the phrase "don't get your hopes up" 01:19 - Midlife crises, identity changes, and worrying about time left 06:29 - Navigating multiple hard life changes at once 10:25 - Jumping to worst-case scenarios and the terror barrier 13:44 - Evolutionary negativity bias and Brené Brown's "foreboding joy" 17:26 - The trap of defensive pessimism and experiencing pain twice 24:12 - Rick Snyder's Hope Theory: Goals, agency, and pathways 27:01 - Actionable strategies: Probability, preparation, and gratitude 31:39 - A sneak peek at next week's Everyday Style School guest Links & Resources: Cheryl's Midlife Recharge: cherylpfischer.com/recharge Listen to Episode 84 on the Terror Barrier Why This Episode Matters By recognizing your brain's natural instinct to brace for impact, you can actively choose to short-circuit the spiral of disappointment. Permitting yourself to get your hopes up and dream bigger is how you thrive, avoid living small, and make this phase of life amazing. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	85. Intimacy and Sex After 40 Without Shame Or Pressure, with Jennifer Marie Summers	22 mai 2026	00:33:50
Many women in their 40s, 50s, and early 60s tend to suffer in total silence when navigating changes in intimacy. We often carry shame around our shifting desires and changing bodies, falsely believing we are the only ones struggling or that we are somehow broken. In this episode, I welcome Jennifer Marie Summers, a board-certified sexologist, certified sex coach, and menopause coach who has been doing this work for nearly two decades. We dive deep into why smart, capable midlife women experience shifting desires, why regulating your nervous system is more important than jumping straight to supplements, and how to finally communicate your needs with your partner without feeling pressure or awkwardness. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The Difference Between Sex and Intimacy: Intimacy and sex are not the exact same thing. Intimacy can look like holding hands, talking about your day, or simply gazing into your partner's eyes. ✔ The Nervous System Block: Stress creates cortisol in the body, which puts us into a state of fight or flight. This causes blood to rush to our arms and legs and away from our genitals, which physically prevents us from feeling pleasure. ✔ The "Yes, No, Maybe" Framework: Using a printed list of intimacy options helps couples discover shared desires and opens up new doors into intimacy. ✔ The Power of Daily Pleasure: Small actions like taking a few extra minutes in the shower to mindfully wash your hair or listening to a calming 528 hertz frequency can help you get back into your body. Episode Chapters: 00:00 - The changing landscape of midlife intimacy and relationships 03:04 - Meet Jennifer Marie Summers and the common intimacy struggles women face 05:59 - How to figure out what you want and start practicing mindful self-care 10:04 - Moving past the societal expectation that sex is just for men 12:36 - Regulating the nervous system and trying the 528 hertz frequency 17:06 - How stress and cortisol biologically block physical pleasure 20:48 - The "Yes, No, Maybe" list to improve couples' communication 28:52 - Why finding daily pleasure is your birthright 32:05 - Finding daily "glimmers" and taking better care of yourself Links & Resources: Jennifer's Website and Intimacy Products: summersoflove.com Free Yes/No/Maybe Checklist & 5 Secrets to Pleasure: summersoflove.com/collections/free Jennifer's Podcast: Sip with Summers Cheryl's Free Story Cycle Resource: cherylpfischer.com/storycycle Why This Episode Matters By stripping away the secrecy and addressing the nervous system stress driving your disconnection, you can completely change your relationship with intimacy and your body. You are not broken. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	84. Why You Self-Sabotage Your Big Goals (And How to Stop)	15 mai 2026	00:25:21
Have you ever set a big goal, started taking action, and then completely self-sabotaged? You are not alone. In midlife, we often feel ready to make a significant change, whether it is a career pivot, starting a new business, or getting in shape. But then procrastination sets in, and we slide right back into our old habits. What if this self-sabotage isn't a sign of weakness, but a predictable, biological, psychological process that you have control over? In this episode, we dive into the concept of the "Terror Barrier," a term from Bob Proctor's work, to explain why our minds resist change. We discuss the clash between your comfortable current reality and your exciting new goals, and how to successfully navigate the fear and anxiety that arise when you try to step out of your comfort zone. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The Comfort Zone Trap: Why your subconscious brain loves your current routine and perceives new goals as a physical threat ✔ The Four Stages of Change: How to identify whether you are in Bondage, Reason, Conflict (the Terror Barrier), or Freedom ✔ The Reality of Self-Sabotage: Why making excuses like "I'm too old" or "I don't have the skills" is your brain's desperate attempt to get back to safety ✔ Actionable Steps to Break Through: How to push forward Episode Chapters: 00:00 - The frustrating cycle of midlife self-sabotage 02:44 - Hitting a wall and discovering the "Terror Barrier" 04:22 - The X Frequency: Why your brain loves the comfort zone 08:44 - The Y Idea: When your big goals clash with your subconscious 12:28 - Your nervous system's desperate attempt to get back to safety 14:55 - The four stages of change: Bondage, Reason, Conflict, and Freedom 17:34 - Actionable tips for breaking through the barrier 20:33 - Reprogramming your brain with a present-tense vision 22:35 - Growth and fear go hand-in-hand Links & Resources: Cheryl's Midlife Recharge: cherylpfischer.com/recharge Why This Episode Matters Growth and fear go hand in hand; there is no way to grow without moving through the fear. By understanding how your subconscious brain processes change, you can stop sitting on the fence and fully commit to the big ideas you truly want. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	83. How to Stop Emotional Eating and Heal Your Hunger in Midlife, with Tricia Nelson	08 mai 2026	00:42:08
There is something that affects so many women in their 40s and 50s, yet we tend to suffer in total silence: emotional eating. We often carry deep shame around our eating habits and falsely believe we are the only ones struggling. In this episode, I welcome emotional eating expert Tricia Nelson. Tricia is the creator of the Heal Your Hunger system, host of the Confessions of a Binge Eater podcast, and her TEDx talk on "garbage eating" has over a million views. We dive deep into why smart, capable midlife women feel out of control around food, why restrictive diets are a trap, and how to finally heal the underlying stress and emotions driving your hunger. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The Three Drivers of Unhealthy Eating: How buried emotions, the addiction to being "busy," and ingrained habits trigger the compulsion to eat ✔ The Restriction Trap: Why going on strict diets or using intermittent fasting to stay out of the kitchen usually backfires and leads to bingeing ✔ The Real Root of the Problem: Why overweight is a symptom of overeating, and overeating is ultimately a symptom of "what's eating me". Episode Chapters: 00:00 - Suffering in silence with emotional eating 05:20 - Is food really self-care? 10:39 - The three main drivers of the compulsion to eat 16:17 - Using food to numb out the discomfort of idle time 19:11 - The trap of restriction and the emotional eating spectrum 23:44 - The deep shame of "garbage eating" 31:43 - Why overweight is just a symptom 37:44 - Stop blaming yourself for diets that failed Links & Resources: The Emotional Eating Quiz Tricia's Book: Heal Your Hunger: Seven Simple Steps to End Emotional Eating Tricia's Podcast: Confessions of a Binge Eater Tricia's Instagram: @tricianelson_ Cheryl's Midlife Recharge: cherylpfischer.com/coaching Episode 81: How to Love Your Menopause Body Why This Episode Matters By stripping away the secrecy and addressing the emotions driving the hunger, you can completely change your relationship with food and your body. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	82. How to Love Your Menopause Body (Without Giving Up on Your Health)	01 mai 2026	00:28:24
Have you caught yourself looking in the mirror recently, grabbing a little chunk of skin around your middle, or wondering, "Whose body is this?" You are definitely not alone. We are diving deep into the reality of midlife body image. I share my own recent wake-up call after seeing a wedding photo, the difference between "fuel food" and "celebratory food," and how to finally turn the volume down on your self-criticism. If you are tired of fighting your own body and want to find a way to be happy with who you are physically right now, this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The Mirror Trap: How cataloging your flaws every morning seeps into your confidence and prevents you from making healthy choices. ✔ Redefining Body Image: Why the picture of your body saved in your subconscious brain might be completely inaccurate (and how to rewrite that "saved tape"). ✔ The "But" Affirmation: Why standard positive affirmations feel like a lie to your brain, and how to use a transitional "but" phrase to slowly build your confidence. Episode Chapters: 00:00 - The reality of changing bodies in midlife 04:03 - My personal wake-up call with a wedding photo 07:29 - Why your subconscious body image might be wrong 13:23 - How to stop the negative self-talk cycle 19:27 - Using EFT Tapping to rewrite your self-image 22:12 - Fuel Food vs. Celebratory Food 25:31 - Creating a transitional body affirmation Links & Resources: The Body Confidence Tapping Episode The "Take Better Care of Yourself" Episode (Ep 75 on Apple) The Midlife Symptoms Episode with Meghan Rabbitt (Ep 77 on Apple) Green Synergy Elixir & Fizz: cherylpfischer.com/greens By consciously shifting our self-talk and treating aging as the profound privilege it is, we can stop fighting our physical selves and step into true confidence. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	81. Changemakers: Using Women's History as Inspiration, with L. M. Elliott	24 avr. 2026	00:42:53
Often, we see the opportunities, we feel the intuitive nudge, but we don't trust ourselves enough to take the leap. In this Changemakers episode, I am joined by New York Times bestselling author, Laura Malone Elliott. Laura shares her midlife pivot from writing long-form narrative journalism in the 1980s to becoming a best selling historical novelist. We dive into how she turned a dreaded assignment into a book, the reality of juggling a demanding career with kids' activities, and why history proves that women in midlife have already earned the right to trust their own judgment. What You’ll Learn: ✔ Watching for "Holes in Coverage": How Laura navigated a male-dominated newsroom by finding the gaps in reporting and focusing on women's issues ✔ History Repeating Itself: The striking parallels between the fight for the ERA in the 1970s and the political climate today, and why the backlash against women is nothing new ✔ Trusting Your Crisis Skills: Why midlife women—who are constantly trusted by others in times of crisis—need to start trusting ourselves when making big life changes Episode Chapters: 00:00 - Becoming a high school history teacher 04:29 - Starting as a journalist in the 1980s 09:12 - The holiday assignment that changed everything 14:06 - Juggling writing and family 22:52 - Writing Truth Lies and the Questions in Between 28:55 - History repeating itself and the ERA Links & Resources: Find Laura Malone Elliott's books and Substack at lmelliott.com Connect with Laura on Instagram @l_m_elliott Connect with Cheryl on social media: @cherylpfischer Take Action Today: Pull Every Thread: When you have an idea or see a small opportunity, explore it. Hunt for Glimmers: Find one tiny moment of joy today (like a great cup of coffee) to retrain your brain to see the positive. Read Truth, Lies, and the Questions in Between! Why This Episode Matters Maybe the self-doubt from decades of being told we are "too emotional" or "too ambitious" still lingers. By looking to history, and looking at our own track records, we can find the courage to step through the small windows of opportunity that life drops at our feet. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	80.a How to Break the Complaining Habit in Four Simple Steps	19 avr. 2026	00:32:27
This is a duplicate of episode 80 due to systems issues. Do you default to talking about bad weather, terrible traffic, or how busy you are? You might be using complaining as your primary conversation style without even realizing it. In this episode, we explore how chronic complaining drains your energy, keeps relationships surface-level, and physically rewires your brain to look for the negative. Let's talk about strategies to break the cycle, embrace healthy venting, and train your mind to look for the good. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The Complaint Trap: How habitual complaining kills your productivity and makes you "smaller" just to comfort others. ✔ Brain Rewiring: How your reticular activating system adapts to find more negativity the more you complain. ✔ The "No Complaining" Rule: A framework requiring you to offer a solution every time you complain. ✔ Venting vs. Complaining: How to put a "fence" around venting using a 5-minute timer so you process emotions without getting stuck. Episode Chapters: 00:00 - Is complaining your default conversation style? 02:13 - My personal wake-up call about complaining 10:32 - How complaining drains energy and rewires your brain 19:06 - The "No Complaining" rule and shifting conversations 28:30 - Training your brain to look for "glimmers" Links & Resources: The No Complaining Rule by Jon Gordon Connect with Cheryl on socials: @cherylpfischer Take Action Today: Audit Your Chats: Listen to your next few conversations. Are you defaulting to "I'm so busy" or traffic complaints? Prepare Pivot Questions: Have positive questions ready, like "What was good about your weekend?" to gently redirect negative chatter. Hunt for Glimmers: Find one tiny moment of joy today (like a great cup of coffee) to start retraining your brain to see the positive. Why This Episode Matters Midlife is full of valid stressors, making it incredibly easy to bond over shared grievances. By intentionally shifting how you speak, you literally rewire your brain to find joy, transforming not just your conversations, but your entire reality. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	80. How to Break the Complaining Habit in 4 Simple Steps	17 avr. 2026	00:32:27
Do you default to talking about bad weather, terrible traffic, or how busy you are? You might be using complaining as your primary conversation style without even realizing it. In this episode, we explore how chronic complaining drains your energy, keeps relationships surface-level, and physically rewires your brain to look for the negative. Let's talk about strategies to break the cycle, embrace healthy venting, and train your mind to look for the good. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The Complaint Trap: How habitual complaining kills your productivity and makes you "smaller" just to comfort others. ✔ Brain Rewiring: How your reticular activating system adapts to find more negativity the more you complain. ✔ The "No Complaining" Rule: A framework requiring you to offer a solution every time you complain. ✔ Venting vs. Complaining: How to put a "fence" around venting using a 5-minute timer so you process emotions without getting stuck. Episode Chapters: 00:00 - Is complaining your default conversation style? 02:13 - My personal wake-up call about complaining 10:32 - How complaining drains energy and rewires your brain 19:06 - The "No Complaining" rule and shifting conversations 28:30 - Training your brain to look for "glimmers" Links & Resources: The No Complaining Rule by Jon Gordon Connect with Cheryl on socials: @cherylpfischer Take Action Today: Audit Your Chats: Listen to your next few conversations. Are you defaulting to "I'm so busy" or traffic complaints? Prepare Pivot Questions: Have positive questions ready, like "What was good about your weekend?" to gently redirect negative chatter. Hunt for Glimmers: Find one tiny moment of joy today (like a great cup of coffee) to start retraining your brain to see the positive. Why This Episode Matters Midlife is full of valid stressors, making it incredibly easy to bond over shared grievances. By intentionally shifting how you speak, you literally rewire your brain to find joy, transforming not just your conversations, but your entire reality. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	79. Decluttering and Organizing Are Actually About Mindset, with Tracy Hoth	10 avr. 2026	00:34:14
Does the word "organization" strike fear into your heart? If you have spent decades calling yourself a "piler," a "messy person," or someone who just "cannot handle paper," it is no wonder your house reflects that reality. In this episode of Mind Your Midlife, certified life and organizing coach Tracy Hoth joins me to explain why decluttering isn't just about buying cute bins at Target—it is entirely about your mindset. We dive into why we unconsciously use clutter to protect ourselves from difficult emotions (like the guilt of cleaning out a parent's house) and how to rewrite your identity so that getting organized actually feels easy. If you are tired of staring at the junk drawer or drowning in mail, and you want a simple, step-by-step system to finally create space in your life, this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The Identity Trap: Why you can never out-perform or out-organize your own identity, and how to borrow confidence from the areas of your life where you are organized (like your career or planning vacations) ✔ The "Opt-Out" Secret: The website you need to visit today to drastically reduce the amount of junk mail, credit card offers, and donation requests flooding your house ✔ The Psychology of Clutter: How to ask yourself, "How is this clutter protecting me?" to uncover the hidden fears or unresolved grief keeping you stuck ✔ The S.P.A.C.E. Method: Tracy's brilliant 5-step system for a 15-minute declutter challenge, including why you must always sort like-items together before making a single decision Take Action Today: Stop the Mail: Visit optoutprescreen.com to stop receiving credit card and insurance offers in the mail. Grab the Free Challenge: Go to simplysquaredaway.com/declutter to download Tracy's free 15-Minute Declutter Challenge. Connect with Tracy on Instagram at @tracyhoth, on the web at simplysquaredaway.com, and grab the free declutter training at simplysquaredaway.com/training. Take the Quiz: Are you smack dab in menopause or just in the mayhem of midlife? Take the fun quiz at cherylpfischer.com/menopausequiz. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	78. Decision Fatigue in Midlife? How to Stop Second-Guessing Yourself	03 avr. 2026	00:24:49
If you are agonizing over a major life decision right now—like whether to move an aging parent, pivot your career, or raise the prices in your business, you’re not alone. Midlife is packed with heavy choices, and if you're like me, you've written a dozen "pros and cons" lists that still haven't given you any peace. In this episode, I am diving into why logical lists fail us when our nervous systems are disturbed. We explore how to listen to the quiet intuition in your body, why making the right choice might feel uncomfortable, and how to finally move forward. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The Pro/Con Trap: Why analytical lists don't work when a decision creates a nervous system disturbance or challenges your self-image ✔ Safety vs. Growth: Why your brain tries to keep you in your comfort zone, and why feeling uncomfortable doesn't mean you made the wrong choice ✔ Decoding Post-Decision Regret: How to tell if you actually made a mistake, or if your self-image just needs time to catch up to the new reality 🎯 OMG Moment: Your brain is wired to keep you in your comfort zone to keep you alive and safe, but sometimes the discomfort you feel isn't a warning sign. It's just the growing pains of becoming a more confident version of yourself. Take Action Today: A few minutes of quiet: Sit in a comfortable chair for a few minutes with no technology to give your subconscious brain space to actually talk to you. Direct Your Mind Movie: Close your eyes and visualize the exact outcome you want—what you hear, see, and feel—leaving aside all practicalities and limitations. Find the Psycho Cybernetics book here. Book a Discovery Call: If you need an outside perspective to help untangle your thoughts, visit cherylpfischer.com/coaching to explore how coaching can help you confidently move forward. Why This Episode Matters Midlife demands that we make massive decisions for ourselves, our businesses, and our families. By learning to quiet the noise and tap into our physical intuition, we can make empowered choices that align with who we are becoming, even if it feels a little scary at first. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	77. Is It Perimenopause? 100+ Symptoms and How to Advocate for Yourself, with Meghan Rabbitt	27 mars 2026	00:39:39
Are you in your late 30s or your 40s and wondering if your sudden mood swings, brain fog, or even itchy ears are just stress—or if they are the start of perimenopause? You’re NOT alone, and it is perfectly normal to feel confused. In this episode of Mind Your Midlife, Cheryl is joined by veteran health journalist Meghan Rabbitt, author of the incredibly comprehensive new book, The New Rules of Women’s Health: Your Guide to Thriving at Every Age. We dive into why we need to move beyond "bikini medicine" and look at the whole picture of women's health. Meghan shares her expert research on decoding perimenopause, prepping for doctor appointments, and what your past pregnancies might reveal about your future heart health. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The Symptom Checklist: Perimenopause encompasses over 100 different symptoms, including surprising ones ✔ How to Prep for the Doctor: Treat your doctor's appointment like a meeting with your accountant by bringing a prioritized list of your symptoms ✔ The "Advocate" Strategy: Bringing a trusted friend or partner to your appointment is a game-changer ✔ The Upsides of Menopause: The transition can lead to increased confidence, stepping into your own power, and caring less about the little things 🎯 OMG Moment: Track your symptoms. Know yourself. You'll be empowered to speak up and to get the care - and the discussions about that care - that you need. Take Action Today: Read the Book: Get Meghan's book, The New Rules of Women’s Health, to educate yourself on everything from gut and brain health to menopause. Find Meghan Online: Follow her on Instagram @meghanrabbitt or visit thenewrulesofwomenshealth.com for ongoing advocacy tips. Listen to MYM episodes on brain fog, hypnosis for menopause, and hormones. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	76. How to Clear Your Midlife Brain Fog (aka Creatine, HRT, and Inflammation), with Dr. Christine Boev	20 mars 2026	00:38:11
Have you ever walked into a room and completely forgotten why you went in there, or found yourself staring blankly in the middle of a sentence because you just cannot find the word? You’re NOT alone — and it doesn't mean you are losing your mind. In this episode of Mind Your Midlife, scientist, researcher, and health coach Dr. Christine Boev joins Cheryl to dive deep into the real brain science behind perimenopause and menopause brain fog . What You’ll Learn: ✔ The surprising root cause of brain fog and cognitive decline in midlife: Systemic Inflammation ✔ Why Alzheimer's is now being called "Type 3 Diabetes" and how insulin resistance directly impacts your brain cells ✔ The 30-Day Reset: How to pull back the curtain on inflammation by temporarily eliminating the four main culprits ✔ Why Creatine Monohydrate is the #1 inexpensive, safe, and effective daily supplement for midlife women's brain health ✔ The truth about Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): How estradiol and progesterone physically wash the "icky stuff" (like amyloid plaques) out of your brain during deep sleep 🎯 OMG Moment: Your brain consumes the majority of glucose and requires the most amount of insulin than any other organ in your body. Brain fog is simply your brain saying, "I can't do what you're asking me to do." Take Action Today: Connect with Dr. Christine Boev at mastermenopause.com and on social media @DrChristineBoev. Reframe Your Food: Stop calling it a "diet" and start calling it a "fueling plan." You wouldn't put dirty gas in a sports car; treat your body with the same respect. Consider Creatine: Talk to your doctor about adding 5 grams of creatine monohydrate to your daily routine (like in your morning coffee) to help your brain make more energy. Check Your Carbs: Swap carbohydrates that come in a package or a bag for natural carbs that come from the earth (like potatoes, rice, and fruit) to stabilize your blood sugar. Why This Episode Matters By making small, strategic tweaks to our food, supplements, and hormones, we can clear the fog and step back into our authority. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	75. How to Take a Little Bit Better Care of Yourself in Midlife	13 mars 2026	00:27:14
Have you ever felt completely overwhelmed by the sheer volume of advice about what you "should" be doing in midlife? You’re NOT alone. After speaking to a room of over 125 women at a recent local business event about "Busting the Myths of Menopause," I realized something important: we are drowning in information, but starving for simplicity. In this episode, I’m stripping away the complicated 10-step morning routines and the overwhelming lists. Instead, we are focusing on how to filter the noise, trust your sources, and implement the smallest, easiest shifts that actually make a difference to your body and your mindset. If you are tired of feeling like your aging body is failing you — and you want a gentler, more effective approach to navigating this season — listen in. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The "Information Overwhelm" Trap: Why having too many podcasts, videos, and articles about menopause is actually causing us more stress (and how to filter it) ✔ Why you need to stop blaming your body for getting older, and how to shift into a mindset of gratitude and care ✔ How to train your brain to look for "Glimmers" (micro-moments of joy) to naturally lower your anxiety without toxic positivity Take Action Today: Listen to the episode with Adrian about talking to your doctor and with Kirsten about hydration. Grab the Discount: Use the code PROFILE50 at cherylpfischer.com/coaching to get 50% off your Being Profile assessment and a 2-hour debrief with me (only a few left!). Hydrate with Purpose: Add an electrolyte drop (like 40,000 Volts) to your water to actually absorb your hydration. Why This Episode Matters We are navigating one of the most complex physical transitions of our lives while being bombarded with conflicting advice. By learning to quiet the noise and focus on tiny, achievable acts of self-care, we can move through midlife with less friction and more peace. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	74. Changemakers: Why You Should Treat Yourself Like a Houseplant (And Quit What Isn't Working), with Mary Rothwell	06 mars 2026	00:33:44
Are you feeling stuck in a toxic work environment, struggling to let go of an old identity, or blaming yourself when things just aren't working out? You’re NOT alone — and it is never too late to pull up your roots and replant yourself. In this Changemakers episode, licensed therapist, speaker, and author Mary Rothwell joins me to share her journey of leaving a 32-year career in higher education after a leadership change turned her beloved job into a nightmare. Mary shares the messy reality of midlife entrepreneurship and how she eventually found her true path by combining her mental health expertise with her deep love for nature . If you are ready to stop forcing yourself to bloom in the wrong soil — and want to learn how to honor your "essential nature" — this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The Physical Toll of Toxic Jobs: Why we often blame ourselves when a boss treats us poorly, and how to trust the physical signs (like stomach aches) telling you to leave ✔ Abandoning Your Identity: The grief and challenge of walking away from a successful 32-year career to start completely over ✔ Plant Wisdom: How to figure out if you are a "shade person" or a "sun person" and why you shouldn't apologize for your environment needs ✔ Forest Bathing for Beginners: The science-backed benefits of immersing yourself in nature to lower anxiety, and how to do it even in an urban setting 🎯 OMG Moment: If you see a houseplant or a tree struggling to grow, you look at its environment. You check the light, the soil, the water. You never look at a struggling plant and think, "My goodness, that is a lazy plant. It's not trying hard enough." Yet, when we struggle in an environment we weren't built for, the first thing we do is blame ourselves . Take Action Today: Connect with Mary: Visit her website at maryrothwell.net to learn about her "Build and Burn" coaching membership . Join the Launch Team: Go to maryrothwell.net/launchteam to get early access to audio chapters as Mary launches her new book, Nature Knows. Try Micro-Forest Bathing: Find your favorite tree on your way to work, put your hand on the bark, and use your senses to connect and ground your nervous system. Grab the Story Cycle Resource: If you are struggling to process your emotions around a career change, download my free tool at cherylpfischer.com/storycycle Why This Episode Matters Midlife is a time of massive transition. We often try to muscle our way through environments and roles that no longer fit who we are, ignoring our bodies in the process. By viewing ourselves as a part of nature, we can stop apologizing for our unique needs and give ourselves permission to find the right soil, the right light, and the right community to truly thrive. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	73. The Truth About Pelvic Floor Dysfunction, Prolapse, and Bladder Leaks in Midlife, with Patricia Linderman	27 févr. 2026	00:39:22
Are you a woman over 40 feeling anxious about bladder leaks when you sneeze, laugh, or jump? You’re NOT alone — but you don't have to just live with it. In this episode of Mind Your Midlife, certified health coach and Pfilates instructor Patricia Linderman joins me to break down pelvic floor health, the reality of prolapse, and the real muscular mechanics behind why we leak and how we can stop it. What You’ll Learn: ✔ How your core acts like a "can" and why deep, three-dimensional breathing is like taking your pelvic floor for 10,000 steps ✔ Why a tight pelvic floor can cause just as many problems (like pain and cramping) as a weak one ✔ Practical steps to properly perform a Kegel using the "rolled-up towel" method ✔ What women REALLY need to know about the "partner muscles" (glutes and inner thighs) that turbocharge your pelvic floor strength ✔ How to use "bracing" to prevent leaks in the exact moment you are about to cough or sneeze 🎯 OMG Moment: A shocking reality check: There are more incontinence pads sold in the United States than menstrual pads. Even more staggering, serious incontinence is one of the primary reasons women are forced to enter assisted living. Leaks might be common, but they are an indication of muscle weakness, not an inevitable sentence of aging. Take Action Today: Connect with Patricia at fierceafter45.com and explore Pelvic Floor Pilates at pfilates.com Listen to the episodes on breathwork and on talking to your doctor Choose ONE small step to build your mind-body connection this week, like taking three deep breaths without hunching over your phone Why This Episode Matters Midlife is a powerful turning point. We are often sold the message that pads and surgeries are our only options. By understanding how to train this hidden muscle group just like we train our shoulders or biceps, we reclaim our bodily autonomy and our quality of life. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	72. Stop Overthinking and Make Confident Choices \| Beating Analysis Paralysis in Midlife, a Client Story	20 févr. 2026	00:27:43
Are you a woman over 40 or 50 feeling stuck in analysis paralysis, second-guessing every decision from your career to your kitchen renovations, or trapped in a loop of "what if it goes wrong?" You’re NOT alone. In this episode of Mind Your Midlife, I’m sharing the story of my coaching client, Mandy—a highly successful entrepreneur who suddenly found herself unable to move forward on even simple projects. We are diving deep into the Being Profile to uncover why smart, experienced midlife women get trapped in "mental traffic." We’ll explore how an unhealthy relationship with fear, anxiety, and peace of mind creates overwhelm, and why your subconscious brain is working overtime to keep you safely stuck. If you are ready to stop researching and start doing — and want to trade constant inner friction for ease and flow — this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The critical difference between Fear (past threats) and Anxiety (future worries) and how they disguise themselves as "preparation" ✔ How to measure your Effectiveness and why constant struggle isn't a badge of honor ✔ The danger of "Mental Traffic": How repeating "it's never going to work" in your head physically stops you from making decisions ✔ Why connecting to a Higher Purpose is the secret to pulling yourself out of short-term comfort traps 🎯 OMG Moment: You caught yourself telling yourself all day that it wouldn't work? Catching yourself is good, because imagine how long that would have kept going. Awareness is the first step to rewiring your subconscious . Take Action Today: Book a Free Coaching Call: Grab one of the limited discount codes this spring to take your own Being Profile assessment and uncover what's keeping you stuck at cherylpfischer.com/coaching . Dream Without Limits: Find a quiet spot, calm your nervous system, and write down exactly what you want your outcome to look like without worrying about the "how" . Adopt a "Stuck" Affirmation: Next time you are spiraling in analysis, use a pattern interrupt like tapping or repeating the affirmation: "I can figure it out." Listen to episode 70. Midlife women have decades of lived experience and success—we are experts at navigating life . Yet, when our internal "peace of mind" is low and our fear is high, we forget our own capability. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	71. How Acupuncture And Chinese Medicine Ease Perimenopause And Midlife Stress, with Damon Iacovelli	13 févr. 2026	00:30:59
Are you riding the "bumpy ride" of perimenopause and wondering if there is an alternative to Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)? You’re NOT alone — and you have more options than you think. In this episode of Mind Your Midlife, Damon Iacovelli, a Master of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, joins me to break down the science behind acupuncture, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and how these ancient practices offer a modern solution for hot flashes, sleep issues, and midlife anxiety. If you are curious about needles but afraid of pain — or if you are looking for a safe, non-hormonal way to regulate your body and calm your nervous system — this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The Science of Acupuncture: How it affects pain and inflammation ✔ Nervous System Reset: Why acupuncture is powerful for switching your body from "fight or flight" (high cortisol) to "rest and digest" ✔ The HRT Alternative: Why acupuncture is a safe, effective option for women who cannot take hormones due to breast cancer history or blood clotting disorders ✔ Does It Hurt? The truth about needle sensation and why many patients actually fall asleep during treatment 🎯 OMG Moment: "Women in Chinese culture are the center of the family... that becomes the foundation of the culture and the society." In Traditional Chinese Medicine, your symptoms are valid, and your health is prioritized because when you are healthy, the foundation of everything around you is stronger . Take Action Today: Connect with Damon Iacovelli: Visit allevaacu.com (Alleva Acupuncture) in Northern Virginia or call 571-388-7028. Find a Local Practitioner: If you aren't in the DC/NOVA area, use the NCCAOM database at nccaom.org to find a licensed acupuncturist near you. Trust Yourself: If you feel something is off in your body, believe it. You deserve care that validates your experience. Why This Episode Matters Midlife symptoms like hot flashes and anxiety aren't just annoyances; they are signs of dysregulation in the body. Acupuncture offers a way to treat the root cause rather than just masking the symptoms, proving that you don't have to just "muscle through" this season of life. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	70. How To Stop Letting Fear and Anxiety Run Your Midlife Decisions	06 févr. 2026	00:24:25
Are you a woman over 40 feeling "sandwiched" between conflicting needs, stuck in analysis paralysis, or simply numbing out at the end of the day? You’re NOT alone. In this episode, I’m exploring the invisible force that might be sitting in the driver's seat of your life: Fear. I’m breaking down the 4 subtle signs that fear is making your decisions for you, sharing my own vulnerable results from the Being Profile assessment, and giving you a strategy to tap into your true courage. If you are tired of micromanaging the small stuff because the big stuff feels out of control — or if you’re ready to move from worry to resourcefulness — this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The 4 silent signs that fear is running your life (including "buffering" and saying "yes" with resentment) ✔ The critical difference between Fear (past threats) and Anxiety (future unknowns) and why it matters ✔ How to use the Being Profile to measure your relationship with courage, vulnerability, and self-expression ✔ A simple 2-step process to ask: "What would I do if I had no fear?" 🎯 OMG Moment: Courage in midlife is not the absence of anxiety, worry, or fear. It's being able to move through that anxiety, worry, and fear and make the decision that is absolutely the best decision for you... and take steps forward. Take Action Today: Book a Free Coaching Call: Grab one of the 6 spots this spring to review your Being Profile and uncover your blind spots at cherylpfischer.com/coaching Download the Resource: Get the free Story Cycle tool at cherylpfischer.com/storycycle to help process your thoughts. The "Pause" Check: When you catch yourself numbing or obsessing over small details, stop and ask: "What am I feeling right now, and what do I care about that is making me feel this way?" . Why This Episode Matters Midlife often feels like a balancing act where we question if we've made mistakes or if we're running out of time. By understanding our relationship with fear and anxiety, we can choose to be resourceful, responsible, and courageous instead. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	Tapping For Your Best Midlife - Part 3 - Your Body Image	04 févr. 2026	00:13:52
Part 3: If you're feeling frustrated with how your clothes fit, unhappy with what you see in the mirror, or struggling to find the motivation to exercise and eat well, you’re NOT alone. In this third episode of our Confidence Deep Dive tapping mini-series, I’m guiding you through a specific practice to address body image struggles and the discouragement that often comes with midlife physical changes. If you feel like your body is changing no matter what you do — and you’re ready to move from frustration to a place of calm, healthy action — this episode is for you. Take Action: Save This Episode: Bookmark this recording so you can repeat this practice daily. Repetition is how we reformulate our subconscious beliefs. Personalize Your Script: If my examples about weight don't resonate, swap them for your specific struggle (e.g., "my lack of motivation to exercise") . Book a Free Call: If you want help creating a personalized tapping script for your unique situation, visit cherylpfischer.com/coaching. Why This Episode Matters Midlife bodies change, and it's normal to feel upset about it. But staying stuck in frustration and self-criticism only spikes your cortisol and kills your motivation. By using tapping to process these emotions, you clear the mental space needed to treat your body with the kindness and care it deserves. Take just a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	69. Hypnosis for Menopause: A Non-Hormonal Solution for Hot Flashes & Sleep, with Sarah Rubens	30 janv. 2026	00:42:20
Are you a woman over 40 or 50 struggling with hot flashes, battling insomnia, or feeling like you are losing control amidst the massive identity shifts of midlife? You’re NOT alone — and you’re not out of options. In this episode of Mind Your Midlife, clinical hypnotherapist Sarah Rubens joins me to demystify hypnosis and explain why it is one of only two non-hormonal treatments for menopause symptoms recognized by The Menopause Society. If you are ready to learn how to update your brain's "software" to reduce anxiety and regulate your body temperature — this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn: ✔ Hollywood vs. Reality: Why hypnosis isn't mind control, but a natural state of focused attention (like "highway hypnosis") ✔ The "Ice Block" Technique: A powerful visualization to cool your body down instantly during a hot flash ✔ Sleep reprogramming: How to shift your identity from "bad sleeper" to someone who rests easily ✔ Navigating Grief: Why midlife transitions are actually "mini losses" and how to process the ambiguous grief of change 🎯 OMG Moment: You are not powerless in transition. Midlife can make you feel like your body is revolting against you, but hypnosis reminds you that you still have agency and can retrain your brain. Hypnosis for confidence and self care sounds amazing. Take Action Today: Connect with Sarah Rubens: Visit treestarhypnosis.com for a free consultation or follow her on Instagram @treestarhypnosis. Take the Quiz: Are you in "Mega Menopause" or just dealing with midlife madness? Go to cherylpfischer.com/menopausequiz to find out. Read: Check out the book Money Magic by Michelle Masters mentioned in the episode. Listen: listen to the previous hynoptherapy episode and the hot flashes episode Why This Episode Matters Hypnosis offers a science-backed way to take the wheel back, proving that while we can't always control what happens to us, we can absolutely control how our brain and body respond to it. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	Tapping for Your Best Midlife, Part 2 - Calm in a Stressful World	28 janv. 2026	00:14:00
Part 2: In this second episode of our Confidence Deep Dive tapping mini-series, I’m guiding you through a specific practice to handle general stress about world events, political strife, and the negativity we see in the news. If you find yourself "doom scrolling" or feeling unsafe in these turbulent times — and you’re ready to lower your cortisol so you can breathe again — this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The "High Stress" Protocol: Why you must tap on the negative emotion first if your distress is an 8, 9, or 10 ✔ Why watching the news is often worse for your nervous system than reading it (and how to set boundaries) ✔ A guided tapping round to validate your fear and calm your body without trying to "fix" it immediately Take Action Today: Save This Episode: Click the "plus" or save button in your podcast app so you can return to this guided session whenever the news gets overwhelming. Check Your Number: Before tapping, ask yourself: Is my stress above a 5? If so, start with the "negative only" round to honor those feelings first . Audit Your Intake: Experiment with reading the news instead of watching it to reduce the emotional impact on your nervous system. Why This Episode Matters Midlife is already complex enough without carrying the weight of the entire world on your shoulders. When we get mired down by external strife, our bodies stay in a state of high alert. This practice gives you a way to acknowledge the reality of the world while still choosing to create a safe, calm space within your own body. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	68. Most Of What You Worry About Won’t Happen (And How to Stop the Worry Cycle)	23 janv. 2026	00:30:02
Are you a woman over 40 or 50 losing sleep over retirement money, health changes, or simply getting stuck in traffic? You’re NOT alone — and you’re not broken. In this episode of Mind Your Midlife, I’m diving into the neuroscience behind why we worry, why our brains are wired to prioritize "safety" over happiness, and why the old advice of "don't get your hopes up" is actually sabotaging your success. If you are tired of the constant worry loop running in the background of your day — and want a data-driven tool to prove your fears wrong — this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The shocking statistic: Why 85% of what we worry about never actually happens ✔ How your subconscious brain uses worry as a misguided safety mechanism to keep you alive ✔ The Worry Outcome Journal: A 4-step experiment to retrain your brain and lower your distress 🎯 OMG Moment: If 85% of our worries never happen, and we handle the remaining 15% better than we expected, that means roughly 97% of our worrying is a waste of mental energy. We are risking our health and cortisol levels for problems that don't exist. Take Action Today: Start a Worry Outcome Journal. Subscribe to the Tapping Mini-Series: Visit cherylpfischer.com/bonusepisodes to access the private Confidence Deep Dive series on Tapping (EFT) to help interrupt your worry patterns . Catch the "Vent": Notice if your "venting" has turned into chronic complaining and interrupt the pattern . Why This Episode Matters Midlife is full of real transitions—from aging parents to physical changes. But when we live in a constant state of "fight or flight," we spike our cortisol and damage our health. By using data to challenge our worries, we can move from a state of fear to a state of calm capability. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	Tapping For Your Best Midlife - Part 1	21 janv. 2026	00:11:21
in this first episode of our new Confidence Deep Dive mini-series, I’m breaking down the science behind Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) and why this simple practice is recognized by the American Psychological Association as a valid treatment for stress and trauma. If you’re skeptical about how tapping on your face can change your life — or if you’re ready to learn a proven method to lower cortisol and interrupt negative thought patterns — this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The science of EFT: How tapping interrupts neural pathways to stop fear and anger in their tracks ✔ Why tapping is proven to dramatically reduce cortisol levels in the body ✔ How to use the SUDS scale (0-10) to measure your emotional intensity before and after you tap ✔ A step-by-step audio guide to locating all the key tapping points Tapping isn't just a placebo; it sends a piezoelectric charge through your connective tissue that literally tells your brain, "You are safe," allowing you to react with calm instead of fear. Take Action Today: Find Your Points: Practice locating the points we covered: Karate Chop, Eyebrow, Side of Eye, Under Eye, Under Nose, Chin, Collarbone, Under Arm, and Top of Head. Why This Episode Matters Midlife is often when our nervous systems are "amped up" from decades of stress. We need tools that don't just work on our thoughts, but on our biology. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	67. Changemakers: How Wine Became A Confidence Tool For Women In Business, with Kristi Mayfield	16 janv. 2026	00:41:17
Are you a woman over 40 or 50 with a little feeling in your gut that you wish you could do something else, but worry it’s too late to make a big change? You’re NOT alone — and you’re certainly not done. In this episode of Mind Your Midlife, wine expert and founder of SIP Society Collective, Kristi Mayfield, joins me to break down career pivots, the power of intuition, and how to turn a passion like wine into a "social power skill" for midlife women navigating networking, business dining, and the fear of reinvention. If the idea of walking into a networking event or ordering off a wine list makes you anxious — or if you’re ready to finally listen to that inner voice calling for a change — this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn: ✔ How to turn wine into a "power skill" that builds trust and relationships in business ✔ Practical steps to build confidence when you are the one holding the wine list at a dinner ✔ What women REALLY need to know about the reality of entrepreneurship and letting go of perfectionism 🎯 OMG Moment: "If you are not investing in yourself, why would somebody invest in you?". Whether it’s time for personal development or money for a coach, you have to value your own growth before you can expect the world to value your business. Take Action Today: Connect with Kristi Mayfield at sipsocietycollective.com and listen to the Everyday Sommelier Podcast Find Kristi on social: Instagram, LinkedIn The Wine List Challenge: Next time you are out to dinner, don't pass the wine list to someone else. Use it as a tool to ask questions and build a relationship with the table or the server Why This Episode Matters Whether you love wine or just want more confidence in social settings, this conversation proves that your "happy place" can become your new path. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	Stop Being Your Own Worst Enemy, Part 4: Rewire Your Mindset	14 janv. 2026	00:14:11
Part 4: In this final episode of our Confidence Deep Dive mini-series, I’m sharing the hard but liberating truth: mindset is "always the work." You don't just take the class, get an A, and move on; you build a practice of constant adjustment. If you’re ready to take the intentional thoughts we created in the last episode and actually cement them into your brain — avoiding the trap of "robotic" affirmations — this episode is for you. Take Action Today: Write it Down: Put your new intentional thought on a sticky note on your bathroom mirror and in your phone notes. Add Emotion: Don't just read it; feel the emotion (e.g., empowered) while you say it. Tap It In: Tap on the "Karate Chop point" (the outside edge of your hand) while repeating your affirmation to help move the emotion through your body. Shift the Chat: Catch yourself "complaining as conversation" and swap it for a better question like, "Tell me something good that happened." Grab the Story Cycle resource here. Set up a free call about coaching here. Why This Episode Matters Midlife is a powerful turning point. It’s when we realize that our brains are wired to keep us safe, often by being hard on us. By moving from unintentional complaining to intentional affirming, you stop being your own worst enemy and start becoming your own best advocate. Take just a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	66. Stop Sabotaging Your Sucess and Create Goals that Last in Midlife	09 janv. 2026	00:27:52
Are you a woman over 40 who started January strong but is already feeling the motivation slip? You’re NOT alone. In fact, by the second week of February, nearly 80% of resolutions have been abandoned. In this episode of Mind Your Midlife, I’m getting real about my own struggle to stick to a simple 10-minute yoga routine and breaking down the psychology behind why we quit. If you are ready to stop beating yourself up for falling off the wagon — and want to learn how to actually stay on it — this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn: ✔ The Pain vs. Pleasure Principle: Why your brain prioritizes immediate comfort over long-term reward ✔ Why "All or Nothing" thinking causes a total system failure when trying to build new habits ✔ The Identity Shift: Why you must believe you are the "type of person" who does the thing before you can successfully do it ✔ Why every midlife woman needs to add a "Fun Goal" to her list this year 🎯 OMG Moment: You cannot outperform your self-image. You have to change the belief to change the behavior. Take Action Today: Listen to episode 65 on money goals and our upper limit problem Enter the One-Year Anniversary Giveaway! Rate and review the podcast on Apple or Spotify, share an episode on social, and DM the screenshot to @CherylPFischer on Instagram to win AirPods or an Amazon Gift Card. Deadline Jan 31, 2026. This is an independent promotion not sponsored by Buzzsprout, Apple, Spotify, or Instagram. Have a laught with the menopause quiz at cherylpfischer.com/menopausequiz. Set up a free chat with me to see whether coaching is a fit for you: cherylpfischer.com/coaching. Why This Episode Matters Midlife is already full of challenges—from health changes to family stress. We often make goals that add pressure rather than value. By understanding how your brain works, you can stop the cycle of starting and stopping, and finally create changes that feel good now, not just in the future. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	Stop Being Your Own Worst Enemy Part Three: Rewrite Your Story	07 janv. 2026	00:24:25
Part 3: In this third part of our special "Confidence Deep Dive" mini-series, I’m breaking down how to stop walking through life "hypnotized" and start making intentional decisions that light you up. If you’re tired of shuffling along without a plan — or if you’re ready to finally understand the hidden story cycle that drives your every move — this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn: ✔ How to identify the specific activities and environments that truly light you up and give you energy ✔ Practical steps to map out your Story Cycle (S-S-E-A-O) and see how it impacts your daily success Take Action Today: Download your free Story Cycle Tool and Wheel of Emotions at cherylpfischer.com/storycycle Brainstorm your "Lit Up" list: Write down 3-5 activities or situations that make you feel happy and energized, then look for the common pattern Audit your circle: Identify one person who brings your energy down and decide on a plan to respond with calm and redirection next time you meet Choose your intentional story: Pick a goal for this week and work backward: what outcome do you want, and what story do you need to tell yourself to feel the emotion required to get there? Why This Episode Matters Midlife is a powerful turning point. It’s when we often realize we’ve been living on default settings, allowing "head trash" or old habits to dictate our confidence. By learning to recognize your emotions and intentionally scripting your internal narrative, you reclaim control over your future. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.
	65. Money, Self-Worth, and Deserving More in Midlife, with Denise Duffield-Thomas	02 janv. 2026	00:49:03
Are you a woman in midlife who knows she wants more ease, freedom, or financial security — but still feels uncomfortable receiving, charging, asking, or even wanting more? You’re not broken, and you’re definitely not alone. In this episode of Mind Your Midlife, I’m joined by money mentor and bestselling author Denise Duffield-Thomas for an honest, compassionate conversation about money mindset, hidden money blocks, gratitude, the upper limit problem, and why so many women feel unsafe with success, ease, or abundance — even when they’ve worked incredibly hard for it. We talk about the subconscious beliefs that quietly run the show, how midlife changes our capacity, and why learning to receive is just as important as learning to give. If money brings up guilt, discomfort, fear, or a sense that “this isn’t for me” — this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn: ✔ Why gratitude does not mean you can’t want more ✔ What the “upper limit problem” is — and how it shows up in midlife ✔ Why success, comfort, and ease can feel unsafe in your body ✔ Why midlife (and perimenopause) often forces a reevaluation of hustle, capacity, and ambition ✔ Simple ways to begin choosing what you want — without guilt 🎯 OMG Moment: You don’t just serve — you deserve. Receiving money, care, ease, and comfort doesn’t make you selfish or greedy. It makes you human. Take Action Today: Get curious (not judgmental) about your money stories and family rules around money Practice choosing what you want in a low-stakes moment — a meal, clothing, rest, or time off Explore Denise’s work, including her books Get Rich, Lucky Bitch and Chill and Prosper, and her podcast Chill and Prosper Connect with Denise on Instagram @denisedt Why This Episode Matters Midlife is often when we notice how much energy we've spent proving, pleasing, pushing, and holding it all together. It’s also when the old rules about money, worth, and success stop working. This episode is an invitation to loosen the grip of those rules — to build a life that feels safe, spacious, and aligned now, not someday. Take a little bit better care of yourself in midlife. Support the show 🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow Gen X women navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence! 🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us. 💡Want menopause advice, mindset shifts, or support with midlife transformation? Find out more about the Midlife Recharge at cherylpfischer.com/recharge Let’s talk health after 50, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women. Connect with Cheryl: Instagram \| LinkedIn \| Website --------------- 💡If you are a brand, author, or business wanting to reach an audience of women in their 40s and 50s who are focused on health, success, and taking care of themselves and others well in this stage of life, consider sponsoring Mind Your Midlife podcast. More information here.

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