Pursue Your Spark - Midlife Health & Fitness, Menopause, Empty Nest Confidence, Health & Mindset, Women over 40

Do you find yourself dragging through the afternoon, reaching for coffee or snacks just to stay awake? You’re not alone. After 40, those 2 p.m. crashes become more common—and it has nothing to do with motivation. It’s your hormones and nutrition working differently now, and midlife nutrition plays a much bigger role than it used to. In Episode 245: What To Eat After 40 To Boost Energy, I explain how hormone shifts, stress, and sleep all affect your energy. As estrogen trends down, your body becomes more sensitive to carbs. Add cortisol spikes from stress and poor sleep, and suddenly the same lunch that worked fine at 30 can leave you foggy and sluggish at 45. The solution isn’t another latte—it’s learning how to time and balance your meals so you get steady energy that lasts. You’ll hear the stories of three women who represent different stages of the journey. Emma often skipped lunch and rode the day out on coffee, Lisa ate pretty healthy but leaned on bars and lattes, and Jasmine was highly active yet still crashed on heavy training days. Each of them discovered that small, realistic changes—like eating protein first, moving lunch earlier, or placing carbs around workouts—completely transformed their afternoons. This episode is not about dieting or giving up the foods you love. It’s about simple midlife nutrition shifts that support your body after 40 and help you feel strong, steady, and focused. If you’re ready to stop the afternoon crash and finally fuel your days with consistent energy, this episode is for you. 👉 Want to go deeper? Grab your copy of my book, Pursue Your Spark: Your Guide to Escaping Midlife Traps, Reclaiming Confidence, and Living Fully. It’s filled with real-life stories, practical nutrition strategies, and mindset tools to help you thrive in midlife and beyond.

Struggling with stiff joints, low energy, or feeling unsure how to move your body without hurting it? You’re not alone—and in Episode 244: Aqua Yoga for Midlife Strength, we explore how the pool might just be your new best friend. I talk with Christa Fairbrother, a former farrier turned aqua yoga teacher, who shares how a painful autoimmune diagnosis changed her path—and how movement in the water gave her strength, balance, and confidence again. We go deep into why aqua yoga is one of the best low-impact workouts for midlife bodies, especially when arthritis or chronic illness makes land-based fitness feel impossible. You’ll hear how the water supports you, how balance improves quickly, and how even simple yoga poses become powerful arthritis exercises for women—no yoga experience required. We also tackle the emotional aspects: feeling exposed in a swimsuit, feeling like you’re “not a yoga person,” and how shifting your mindset can change everything. This episode is real talk for real women. It’s about showing up, trying something new, and giving yourself the chance to feel strong again. If you're looking for a smarter, more supportive way to stay strong in midlife, this episode gives you everything you need to take the first step—right in the pool. Ready to feel stronger, steadier, and more confident in your body? Connect with Christa christa@christafairbrother.com= https://www.christafairbrother.com https://www.facebook.com/ChristaFairbrotherYoga/  https://www.instagram.com/aquacontentyogi   Mentioned on the show Grab your copy of my new book Pursue Your Spark here!    

After a season of rosé, ice cream, and skipped workouts, many women feel the urge to “start over.” But here’s the truth: restriction and guilt aren’t the answer. Instead of punishing yourself for summer indulgences, you can embrace a different approach—one that feels empowering, sustainable, and kind. That’s exactly what I share in my new post, Reset After Summer: A Midlife Healthy Eating Guide. This isn’t about diets, detoxes, or a perfect Monday plan. It’s about creating a realistic reset for midlife women—one rooted in food freedom, energy, and confidence. A healthy eating reset works best when you incorporate nourishing habits, rebuild routines that make you feel steady, and engage in activities that feel joyful, not forced. Instead of tracking every calorie, you can check in with how food makes you feel. Instead of dragging yourself back to punishing workouts, you can choose movement that feels like self-care. Instead of cutting things out, you can add habits that actually energize you. A reset isn’t about starting over. It’s about realignment. It’s asking, What helps me feel strong, clear, and confident in this season? If you’ve been caught in the yo-yo eating cycle—indulge, feel guilty, restrict, burn out, repeat—this post will help you break free. You’ll discover how to rebuild healthy habits after summer, stop “starting over” with food, and create consistency without chaos. Your reset doesn’t have to be about shrinking your body—it can be about reclaiming your rhythm. Fall is the perfect time to reconnect with what truly supports you. Links Mentioned On the Show: Podcast: 219. Flip-Flops to Focus: Reclaim Your Fall Routine Today Book: Pursue Your Spark Pursue Your Spark Blueprint Course    

Ever been told “it’s all in your head” when you know your body is asking for help? That disconnect is more than frustrating—it’s often the very thing that deepens our stress, amplifies burnout, and keeps us stuck. In Episode 242: Holistic Psychology for Stress Relief: Bridging Eastern and Western Healing, I sit down with holistic psychologist Tatiana Miller to explore what happens when we stop chasing symptoms and start listening to our whole selves. Tatiana’s story is powerful—from years of being dismissed by Western doctors to discovering healing through yoga, breathwork, and the philosophies of Eastern medicine. Her journey shows what’s possible when we combine modern psychology with mindful movement and emotional intelligence. In this conversation, we talk about why traditional therapy often misses the mark, especially for women navigating midlife burnout. Tatiana explains how holistic psychology utilizes the four pillars of emotional intelligence—self-awareness, reflection, regulation, and social connection—to foster genuine, lasting change. We also dive into how practices like Yoga, Pilates, and breathwork do more than move your body—they help downregulate the nervous system, signal safety, and rebuild your energy from the inside out. This episode is especially for you if you’re feeling overwhelmed, unseen, or just plain tired of managing stress the old way. It’s not about pushing through. It’s about aligning with your truth, your rhythm, and your spark. ✨ This is one of many ways to pursue your spark. Start here—and explore the full collection to reconnect with your strength, joy, and resilience. How to connect with Tatiana: https://mentalhealthsolutionsonline.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tatiana-miller-howtobeahuman/ https://www.youtube.com/@tattimiller1394 https://www.facebook.com/RX4LifeMovement/?locale=zh_CN https://www.instagram.com/tatti_miller/   🎉 Ready to feel strong, clear, and confident in midlife? Grab your copy of Pursue Your Spark and unlock exclusive bonuses designed to help you put the book into action. Get it all here 👉 Get The Book And Bonuses     📙 📙 📙 📙

Ever walk away from a conversation thinking, “Why didn’t I just say what I meant?” That gut punch isn’t just frustration—it’s a sign of something deeper. In episode 241, The Confidence Gap No One Talks About, we unpack why so many midlife women silence themselves—and how to break that cycle. This episode is about power. The quiet kind. The kind you feel when you reclaim your voice in midlife and finally say what you mean. We explore what the confidence gap really looks like. It’s not always obvious. Sometimes it hides behind people-pleasing, over-explaining, or brushing off your own needs to keep the peace. But the cost? It’s your clarity, energy, and self-trust. You’ll learn five powerful mindset shifts that help you set boundaries without guilt, stop second-guessing, and speak up—without apologizing for it. We discuss emotional strength in the same way we discuss physical strength. You build it with reps. Practice. One honest sentence at a time. If you’re tired of feeling invisible or like your voice doesn’t matter, this episode gives you tools to shift that, without needing a full life overhaul. ✨ Ready to take that next step? Pre-order Pursue Your Spark, the book, and get exclusive bonuses that will help you stop shrinking and start thriving in midlife—on your terms. Inside, you'll find real-life stories, mindset tools, and practical strategies to help you reclaim your confidence, energy, and spark. 🎁 Pre-order now and unlock your limited-time bonuses! Limited Podcast Series: Intermittent Fasting For Midlife  🎧 Plus, don’t miss Episode 174: How To Reclaim Your Confidence To Do The Things You Want Over 50 with Kelly Howard    

Sometimes the most powerful journeys begin not with a step forward, but with a fall that forces you to rise differently. Amy Thurman’s life changed in an instant after a traumatic brain injury left her unable to walk, talk, or see clearly. In Episode 240: From Trauma to Times Square, Amy shares her raw and remarkable story of healing and personal growth in midlife. But her story isn’t just about recovery—it’s about rediscovering purpose and becoming a guide for others. Now a speaker, author, and founder of the Mirror Collective, Amy created the “Polish the Mirror” framework to help women rebuild their confidence, reconnect with joy, and reclaim who they are, beyond their roles, pasts, or setbacks. This empowering podcast episode is for anyone navigating change, loss, or reinvention. Especially for midlife women who feel stuck, this conversation reminds them that they can turn pain into power and that joy can be their North Star. We talk about: How Amy redefined her identity after trauma The mindset shift that changed her healing Why “Polish the Mirror” speaks to every woman’s inner spark What joy and purpose look like in midlife 🎧 Tune in now to hear how Amy rose from trauma to inspire thousands and how you can reignite your spark from wherever you are. Connect with Amy Thurman: Website | getamyshelp.com Facebook | www.facebook.com/amy.thurman1 Instagram | @amycthurman LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/in/amythurman Connect with us! Website | heikeyates.com Instagram | @heikeyates Facebook / https://www.facebook.com/pursueyourspark   📘 Be the First to Know – Join the Book Pre-Launch Waitlist! Get exclusive early access, sneak peeks, and special bonuses. 👉 Join the Waitlist 🔥 Transform Your Midlife – Join the 8-Week Pursue Your Spark Blueprint Rediscover your purpose, reignite your energy, and create a life you love in just 8 weeks. 👉 Start the Blueprint

You know that moment when you’re standing in the kitchen, staring at two different snacks, and you just can’t decide? It’s not really about the snack. It’s the mental spiral that’s running the show. In midlife, overthinking becomes the default. You’re juggling shifting roles, changing bodies, and trying to keep up with everything that used to feel automatic. But now? Every decision feels heavier. You’re constantly planning, researching, second-guessing… and feeling more stuck than ever. In episode 239, “Why Overthinking Keeps You Stuck in Midlife,” we explore how mental clutter, perfectionism, and people-pleasing can quietly drain your confidence and energy and how what feels like “playing it safe” is actually keeping you from moving forward. You’ll hear relatable stories—including one about a client who spent so much time creating the perfect workout plan… she never actually worked out. You’ll learn why more effort isn’t what’s missing—and why what you genuinely need is clarity, movement, and self-trust. We talk about: How overthinking in midlife often disguises itself as “being responsible” The real cost of decision fatigue (spoiler: it’s more than mental exhaustion) What it looks like to take messy, empowered action—even if it’s not perfect If you’re tired of living in your head and ready to reconnect with yourself… Take the next step: 📘 Get on the waitlist for my new book: Pursue Your Spark – Your Guide to Escaping Midlife Traps, Reclaiming Confidence, and Living Fully 🎯 Explore deeper support inside the Pursue Your Spark Blueprint course Because of the clarity, confidence, and momentum you’re craving? It’s already within you, and you must trust yourself enough to begin.

What happens after the kids leave? For many parents, the empty nest phase brings a flood of emotions—relief, sadness, confusion, even identity loss. But what if this transition could be your most powerful opportunity for growth, reconnection, and joy? In Episode 238: Navigating the Empty Nest Transition, I sit down with award-winning author Anthony Damaschino, whose Empty Nest Blueprint books offer wisdom, humor, and practical advice for parents ready to reclaim their spark. A former HR executive, father of three, and now a full-time advocate for thriving in midlife, Anthony shares why this season is the most underrated phase in a parent’s life. We talk about what happens when the house gets quiet, how to stop helicopter parenting before it pushes your kids away, and why “just surviving” these years misses the point. Anthony opens up about his emotional shifts, including the bittersweet moment his daughter left home (again), and how he and his wife rekindled their relationship without the kids at the center. This episode explores: How to handle the emotional rollercoaster of an empty home Why awareness is the first step to thriving after parenting How single parents can avoid loneliness and rebuild identity Ways couples can reignite connection and purpose Why small shifts—not big reinventions—create long-term fulfillment Whether you're approaching the empty nest or living in it right now, this conversation will inspire you to see this phase not as an ending, but as a powerful new beginning. Tune in and walk away with real strategies to help you rediscover who you are and want to be after the kids are grown. Connect with Anthony: Website:  https://anthonydamaschino.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anthonydamaschino Insta: https://www.instagram.com/anthonydama.author/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonydamaschino/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCjRkEZVQBshhrf98sSQP9Sw Mentioned: Join my pre-book launch list and enjoy some bonuses.  

You’re doing all the “right” things—getting enough sleep, eating healthy, even squeezing in workouts—but you still feel tired all the time. Sound familiar? In Episode 237: What’s Secretly Draining Your Energy in Midlife, we’re uncovering what’s really behind that constant fatigue—and why more effort isn’t the answer. Midlife women are often told to try harder. Sleep more. Eat cleaner. Push through. But here’s the truth: your exhaustion might not be about what you’re doing—it’s about what’s quietly draining you. These are energy leaks—the hidden mental, emotional, and physical drains that slowly wear you down no matter how much you try to recharge. Think of your energy like a bucket. You keep pouring in rest, food, and self-care, but if there are holes in the bottom, it’ll never stay full. This episode breaks down the three biggest energy leaks most midlife women deal with: saying yes to everything but yourself, mental overload and decision fatigue, and the “someday” mindset that delays your needs. You’ll learn why doing more isn’t helping and what to do instead. We’ll shift your focus from trying to boost energy to protecting it and redirecting it toward what fuels you. This episode isn’t about hustle—it’s about reclaiming your spark. You’ll walk away with a fresh perspective and practical ways to stop the leaks, protect your energy, and start feeling like yourself again. Because you don’t need more motivation, you need a new strategy. Ready to get your energy back, without doing more? Then press play. Your midlife doesn’t have to feel like a never-ending to-do list. It’s time to make space for you. ✨ Ready to Reclaim Your Energy for Good? If this episode hits home, you’re not alone and don’t have to figure it out yourself. ➡️ Join the pre-launch list for my upcoming book, Pursue Your Spark—your guide to escaping midlife traps, reclaiming confidence, and living fully. You’ll get first access, behind-the-scenes insights, and early bird bonuses you won’t want to miss. Join here! ➡️ Want a proven step-by-step path to feel stronger, more energized, and in control again? Check out the Pursue Your Spark Blueprint, my signature program designed for midlife women who are ready to stop spinning their wheels and finally create habits that stick. Check it our here! Because it’s not about doing more, it’s about doing what matters.

What happens when life throws you a curveball you never saw coming, like becoming a mom to triplets? For Marta Spirk, it wasn’t the end of her identity. It was the beginning of something powerful. In Episode 236: Balancing Motherhood and Entrepreneurship with Confidence, Marta shares how navigating life with three newborns became the catalyst for her business journey and how she now helps other women do the same. Marta is a business coach, TEDx speaker, and author of The Empowered Woman: The Ultimate Roadmap to Business Success. In this episode, she opens up about the reality of balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, the messy, beautiful, and empowering. She and Heike explore how to manage imposter syndrome, build confidence as a mom and entrepreneur, and show up in life and business with authenticity and presence. You’ll learn practical strategies for developing poise and power, from Heike’s signature Pilates Body posture technique to Marta’s insights on how your voice and body language shape how others see you (and how you see yourself). Whether you're growing a business during nap time or standing on a TEDx stage, how you carry yourself truly matters. One standout moment? Marta’s reminder that "when you set your goals from a place of gratitude, you reach them faster." That one shift can change the game. If you’ve ever questioned your ability to do it all or wondered if you’re doing enough, this episode is for you. Connect with Marta: www.martaspirk.com/aboutme www.instagram.com/martaspirk www.linkedin.com/in/marta-spirk Pre-book launch list Ready to reignite your spark? Get on the waitlist for my upcoming book, packed with fresh tools, mindset shifts, and inspiration to help you thrive in midlife but on your terms. 👉 Join the waitlist here.

You start strong, full of motivation. Then life happens. You get busy, tired, or just lose steam. Before you know it, you’re back at square one, wondering why fitness after 50 feels so hard. In episode 235 of the podcast, Struggling with Fitness After 50? Find Your WHY First, we’re uncovering the real reason consistency feels impossible—and how finding your WHY can change everything. The problem isn’t willpower. It’s clarity. Staying consistent will always be a struggle if you don’t know why movement matters. But when you connect fitness to something bigger, it becomes something you want to do—not just another task on your list. Your WHY is personal. Maybe you want to stay strong for travel. Keep up with your grandkids. Protect your independence. But your Purpose? That’s even bigger. It’s the long-term vision of the life you refuse to lose. Motivation fades, but a strong WHY keeps you going. Struggling to stay consistent with exercise in midlife? Stop chasing motivation and ask yourself: Why do I want to feel stronger? What’s at stake if I don’t move? What moments do I want to be fully present for? Perfection isn’t the goal—showing up is. Small, consistent actions create lasting success. Every step you take today is a gift to your future self. Stop waiting for the perfect time. Start where you are. Your future self is depending on it. Mentions:  Podcast: 229. Why Losing Motivation Is Not Your Fault 👉 Click here to book your free Spark Breakthrough Call! Get your FREE Intermittent Fasting Cheat Sheet Get on my pre-book launch waitlist here!

What if your biggest heartbreak became your most extraordinary mission? After losing his mother to Parkinson’s, Dr. George Ackerman turned grief into purpose—creating a movement that’s shaking up awareness around this devastating disease. In this powerful episode, George shares what Parkinson’s looks like, what most caregivers never talk about, and why his mission, Together for Sharon, inspires a global fight for change. You’ll hear his full story in Episode 234: Caregiving, Parkinson’s, and a Son’s Mission. George opens up about the early signs of Parkinson’s disease are stiffness, internal tremors, changes in movement—and how his mom lived with symptoms for years before being diagnosed. He also dives into the emotional toll caregiving takes, especially when you’re doing it all out of love and without a roadmap. His honesty about guilt, exhaustion, and the need to “just be there” is something every caregiver will relate to. As a law enforcement professional and educator, George is using his unique background to advocate for better training and awareness across the board—including in police departments, where understanding Parkinson’s symptoms could literally save lives. He also shares the incredible reach of Together for Sharon, from his interviews with top neurologists to featuring stories from everyday families worldwide. He believes no one should feel alone, whether they're navigating symptoms, supporting a loved one, or simply trying to understand what Parkinson’s really means. This episode is packed with heart, hope, and powerful takeaways. If you're a caregiver, have Parkinson’s in your family, or just want to be more informed, George’s story will motivate you to take action—because awareness can lead to change. How to support Parkinson's and connect with George: Website https://www.togetherforsharon.com/ Email togetherforsharon@gmail.com LinkedIn   https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-ackerman-ph-d-esq-mba-00871a82/ TikTok    https://www.tiktok.com/@togetherforsharon1 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/togetherforsharon112020 Twitter/X https://twitter.com/togetherforsha1 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/togetherforsharon/ Podcast https://www.togetherforsharon.com/podcast-interviews/    

You know that feeling—you want to start fresh with your health, maybe try a new workout or finally commit to better nutrition, but something stops you. That nagging thought: What if I fail? We're tackling exactly that in Episode 233: Overcoming Fear of Failure in Midlife. Fear of failure feels bigger after 50 because you’ve tried before, and maybe it didn’t stick. Maybe past diets left you feeling like a failure, or life got in the way of your best intentions. But what if failure wasn’t proof you can’t do this—what if it was just part of learning? Midlife brings enough change as it is. Your energy fluctuates, your body feels different, and let’s be real—your schedule is packed. The idea of starting over again can feel exhausting. But the truth? You don’t need a total life overhaul. Breaking past fitness failures after 50 and figuring out how to make fitness and nutrition work after 50 starts with small, sustainable steps. So many midlife women tell me they feel stuck because they’ve “failed” before. But failure isn’t final—it’s feedback. I’ve been there, too. When I created Pilates with Resist-A-Ball, I had moments of doubt that almost stopped me from moving forward. In this episode, I’m sharing that story and showing you exactly how to overcome fear of failure in midlife with my SPARK framework—a simple way to shift your mindset, take action, and build momentum without feeling overwhelmed. You don’t have to get it perfect, and you don’t have to do it all at once. Small wins build confidence and energy, like starting with two short workouts a week or focusing on non-scale victories. You are not too old, and it is not too late. The only way to fail is to stop trying. Fear is normal, but it doesn’t have to keep you stuck. Mentions:  #145 – 5 Ways How to Stop Sabotaging Yourself Forever Get on my book pre-launch list Belly Bliss Course  Book a 15-minute Spark Breakthrough Call with me, and together we’ll uncover what’s keeping you stuck in your fitness and wellness journey. This quick assessment will help you create clarity, cut through the noise, and finally start making progress in a way that works for YOU in midlife. CLICK HERE to schedule your call.

What if everything you’ve been told about confidence, desire, and pleasure in midlife is completely wrong? For so many women, midlife feels like a turning point—you’ve checked the boxes, followed the rules, and still wonder… is this it? In Episode 232: How to Own Your Power and Pleasure in Midlife, we’re diving deep into what it takes to break free from limiting beliefs, embrace confidence, and own your desires without apology. I’m joined by Sue Camaione, author of The Practical Seductress: How I Learned to Take My Hat and Run. She’s sharing her powerful journey of self-discovery, pleasure, and stepping into her full power. We talk about reclaiming pleasure and desire in midlife, shedding outdated expectations, and feeling confident and sexy after 50, even if you've been stuck in old narratives. Too often, women in midlife feel like they have to tone it down, play small, or shrink themselves to fit outdated roles. But what if this stage of life is actually your time to expand, own what you want, and live unapologetically? We break down the mindset shifts and real-life actions that make all the difference—reconnecting with your body, speaking up for your needs, or fully embracing the pleasure and joy you deserve. If you're tired of waiting for permission and ready to own your midlife confidence, this episode is for you. You’ll walk away feeling empowered to stop second-guessing yourself and start living boldly, thriving fully, and reclaiming your power. So, if you’re ready to step into your strength, claim your desires, and start living life on your terms, hit play now! How to reach Sue: Website Link: www.suecamaione.com  Facebook Business Page: https://www.facebook.com/sue.camaione.author LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scamaione/  X: https://x.com/SuzyC19584106  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sue_camaione/ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@suecamaione Mentions: Belly Bliss Course Do you have a question about staying consistent with healthy habits or creating a fitness routine for your busy midlife? Send it to me, and I’ll answer it on air!    

Life is full of unexpected twists and turns. One moment, you’re managing your routine, tackling your to-do list, and feeling in control. And then, something happens—a phone call, a change in the weather, or news you weren’t prepared for—and suddenly, your world feels upside down. In Finding Strength and Resilience During Uncontrollable Events in Midlife, we’re diving into what it means to navigate life’s most challenging moments with clarity and confidence. While we can’t control every curveball life throws, we can control how we respond. In this episode, I share personal stories, real-life examples, and practical tools to help you build resilience so you can stay grounded even when life feels uncertain. We’ll explore the emotional impact of unexpected challenges, why resilience is a game-changer, and how my S.P.A.R.K. framework can guide you toward clarity, action, and lasting momentum. We’ll also explore strategies for building resilience after experiencing loss—whether it’s the passing of a loved one, a shift in identity, or a significant life transition. Acknowledging emotions like fear and frustration isn’t weakness; it’s the first step to finding strength during uncontrollable events. The more we understand our emotional responses, the more we can shift our mindset and focus on what we can control. Remember, life’s midlife challenges don’t define you—how you respond does. Today, reflect on how far you’ve come and know that brighter days are ahead. Mentioned In The Show Episode 96. How To Build Resilience/Multi Guest Interview Belly Bliss Course California Wildfire and Disaster Relief Get on my book pre-lauch list Do you have a question about staying consistent with healthy habits or creating a fitness routine for your busy midlife? Send it to me, and I’ll answer it on air!  

Feeling like self-care is selfish? You’re not alone. For midlife women over 50, guilt often sneaks in and stops us from putting ourselves first. And let’s be honest—Why Self-Care Feels So Damn Hard for Midlife Women is something we’ve all wondered about. Here’s the truth: self-care isn’t about spa days or bubble baths. It’s about creating habits that help us thrive. Setting boundaries. Avoiding burnout. Showing up as our best selves. In episode 230, I’m joined by Lesley Logan, a second-generation certified Pilates teacher, author, and host of the Be It Till You See It podcast. Lesley is passionate about helping women prioritize themselves through movement, mindset, and self-care. She shares her journey of overcoming perfectionism and embracing guilt-free self-care. Her advice is simple: Focus on the basics—sleep, movement, and proper nutrition. These small but powerful habits create the foundation for thriving in midlife. We also discuss the guilt many women feel when prioritizing themselves. Lesley challenges this mindset head-on and reminds us that self-care isn’t selfish—it’s essential. When you take care of yourself, you can give more energy, love, and support to the people who matter most. Lesley shares practical tips to make self-care easier. Create a schedule that prioritizes you. Build habits that fit into your daily life. Ask for help when needed—and let go of the guilt. Self-care isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity. Thriving in midlife starts with putting yourself first. Tune in to episode 230 to hear Lesley’s advice and learn how to make guilt-free self-care a regular part of your life! How to connect with Lesley: Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Do you have a question about staying consistent with healthy habits or creating a fitness routine for your busy midlife? Send it to me, and I’ll answer it on air! Check out the Belly Bliss course HERE! Join my pre-launch book release right here.

Ever feel like you’ve hit a wall and can’t figure out why your motivation has disappeared? Here’s the thing: losing motivation isn’t your fault. Motivation isn’t some steady, unshakable thing. It changes as we go through life, just like we do. What lit you up in your 20s and 30s might not feel right now, and that’s okay. Life throws us curveballs—work, family, caregiving—and sometimes it feels like there’s no room left for you. Add in sneaky traps like comparing yourself to others (or your younger self), trying to do everything at once, or waiting for the “perfect” moment, and it’s no wonder we feel stuck. But here’s the thing: losing motivation in midlife isn’t failure—it’s growth in disguise. In this episode, I’m breaking down why motivation fades, how to stop beating yourself up over it, and what you can do to feel excited again. Spoiler: it doesn’t involve drastic changes or all-or-nothing thinking. This episode is for you if you’re ready to ditch the guilt and rediscover your spark. Let’s talk about what really matters in midlife and how small, meaningful steps can make a big difference.   Episode Links: Sign up for the Fasted and Fit Over 50 Jump Start Course Join my pre-launch book release Episode 025. Boost And Increase Motivation with These 6 Effective Tips Do you have a question about staying consistent with healthy habits or creating a fitness routine for your busy midlife? Send it to me, and I’ll answer it on air!

Has your 9-5 lost its spark? If what once excited you now feels like a grind, it might be time for a change. Shannon Russell, CEO of Second Act Success, joins me to share her journey and expert advice on transitioning to a career that aligns with your purpose and brings fulfillment. After a successful career in TV production, Shannon pivoted to entrepreneurship to gain freedom and flexibility. Through self-reflection, she identified her values—family time and creating meaningful work—and built a business on her own terms. Key Lessons from Shannon: Overcome Self-Doubt: Your skills and experiences form a "lifelong resume" that proves you can succeed in a new venture. Redefine Success: Moving to a purpose-driven career means shifting your definition of achievement to align with what truly matters to you. Practical Steps for Your Career Transition: Reflect: List all your personal and professional titles to recognize your skills and unique experiences. Research: Explore 2-3 business ideas you’re passionate about while still in your current job. Start Small: Take consistent, small steps daily to build momentum toward your dream career. Shannon’s story reminds us that career transitions take perseverance and purpose. By focusing on your values and taking actionable steps, you can create a career you love at any stage of life. Episode links: Register for Heike's Pursue Your Spark Blueprint Course Have a question about staying consistent with healthy habits or creating a fitness routine for your busy midlife? Send it my way, and I’ll answer it on air! Connect with Shannon: Website  Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube    

Feeling overwhelmed and stuck in midlife? You’re not alone. For many women over 50, juggling commitments and trying to keep up with wellness trends can feel like an uphill battle. The good news? Overcoming overwhelm doesn’t require big resolutions or drastic overhauls—it’s about starting small and focusing on what truly matters. That’s exactly what we explore in episode 227: Tiny Shifts to Beat Overwhelm in Midlife. We explore why feeling stuck is common and how recognizing it is the first step toward change. Whether repeating the same routines or saying yes when you want to say no, identifying what’s draining your energy helps you move forward. From there, we explore the power of tiny, consistent actions—like adding a 5-minute habit—that creates momentum without adding stress. This episode also helps you challenge limiting beliefs, like “It’s too late for me,” and reframe your mindset to make space for growth. We’ll even tackle guilt, a familiar but surprising sign that you’re breaking old patterns and prioritizing what truly matters. If you’re ready to get unstuck and gain clarity, this episode offers actionable tips to help you shift from overwhelmed to thriving—one small step at a time. Start today by picking just one insight to apply this week. Progress isn’t about perfection but building habits that fit your life and goals. Big changes start with small, consistent actions. If you’re ready for more support in overcoming overwhelm and gaining clarity, my Pursue Your Spark Blueprint will guide you. Starting January 6th, we’ll take it step-by-step, making it simple, achievable, and tailored to your busy life. Here is the link to see if you’re a good fit for the program. Links Mentioned In The Show: Pursue Your Spark Blueprint Eps. 224.- 5 Transformative Habits For Midlife Mastery Join my pre-launch book release      

Feeling stuck in midlife? You’re not alone. In this episode, Heike Yates talks with Allan Misner about how to shift from wanting change to making it happen. Together, they explore how midlife transformation starts with mindset, small actions, and the courage to stay consistent. Discover how to build habits that last, overcome self-doubt, and find motivation after 50 — no matter where you’re starting. In this episode, I sit down with Coach Allan Misner. Allan is a NASM-certified personal Trainer, Precision Nutrition Level II Master Health Coach, and FAI-certified Functional Aging Specialist. He’s also the host of the 40+ Fitness Podcast, the go-to show for health over 40, and the author of The Wellness Roadmap, a straightforward guide to staying fit after 40. Allan shares his journey of getting back into shape to stay active in his daughter’s life. This decision led to a big commitment to his health. Over eight months, he lost 66 pounds of fat, gained 11 pounds of muscle, and took on a Tough Mudder race! We dive into how he finds the right mindset to stay committed, using ideas like the “Atlas” and “Pedals” mindsets to help clients stay focused without burnout. Allan also shares his thoughts on staying independent and capable as we age. He believes in building small, consistent habits that align with our values, making fitness something we actually want to stick with. His story is a great reminder real progress comes from knowing yourself and committing to your goals. How to connect with Allan: 40plusfitness.com 40plusfitnesspodcast.com  facebook.com/allan.misner.CPT, facebook.com/40plusfitnesspodcast linkedin.com/in/coachallan youtube.com/channel/UC3hTAx0L62wT6JL04aQWu6Q