Midlife Made Simple: Faith and Purpose for Christian Women

👉 This episode is part of my monthly Midlife Edit series — where I share the tools, rhythms, and resources that are helping me simplify and stay connected in this season.In this Midlife Edit episode, I’m rethinking my relationship with technology through a simple but powerful lens: Does this tool enhance my community, or does it diminish it? Inspired by wisdom I came across while reading Reconnected by Carlos Whittaker, I share five practical ways I’m using technology right now to build connection instead of distraction.If you’ve ever felt like your phone pulls you away from what matters, this episode will encourage you to see how technology — used with intention — can actually deepen your relationships with God, yourself, and the people you love.Key TakeawaysWhy filtering technology through the lens of community and faith can simplify your choices.A reminder that technology isn’t the enemy — it’s how we use it that matters.Five practical tools I’m using to enhance connection:Zoom → weekly prayer calls with women across the country.Voxer → deeper, voice-based friendships without schedule stress.Touchnote → sending postcards from everyday moments.Nixplay Frame → sharing photos instantly with family.Snapchat → meeting my boys where they’re at and staying close to their daily lives.Encouragement that midlife is the perfect time to reset your tech habits and use them to strengthen community.Women Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/prayercall  Resources:Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/shellyniehaus/Simple Shifts Newsletter: https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/midlifeWomen Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/prayercall 

One of the biggest surprises of midlife is how friendships shift—and how lonely it can sometimes feel. If your circle feels smaller than you expected, you’re not the only one. In this episode, Shelly shares encouragement and three simple ways to start building connection again. Because loneliness isn’t your identity—it’s just a signal that your soul is ready for connection.Key Takeaways:💛 You’re not alone—many women in midlife quietly carry the same ache for deeper connection.🌱 Your worth isn’t measured by the size of your circle. One-to-one friendships can be some of the most meaningful relationships of this season.👣 Try these three small steps this week:Send a quick text or Voxer message to let someone know you’re thinking of them.Invite a friend on a walk—low-pressure, shoulder-to-shoulder connection.Start something consistent, like a monthly coffee date or weekly check-in.🙋‍♀️ Remember: someone has to go first—and the friend you’re thinking of may be waiting for you to reach out, too. Resources:Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/shellyniehaus/Simple Shifts Newsletter: https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/midlifeWomen Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/prayercall 

In this deeply personal episode, I share a journal entry I wrote just weeks before dropping my boys off at college, closing my business, grieving friendship shifts, and walking through the final days of my mother-in-law’s Alzheimer’s journey.This isn't a strategy session. It’s an honest reflection on what it feels like to let go of everything familiar—and face the silence that follows. I call it The Void—and if you’ve ever been there too, I hope this episode helps you feel seen, supported, and a little less alone.Whether you’re grieving a role, a relationship, or just sitting in a season of waiting, this conversation is for you.Key Takeaways:You’re not the only one feeling lost after the kids leave or the business endsLetting go isn’t failure—it’s often the first step of obedienceSometimes the hardest part isn’t what we lose—it’s the quiet space left behindYou can’t out-strategize surrender or hustle through heartbreakGod is still working—even when life feels foggy, slow, or silentThe daily things (walks, dishes, dinner) are sacredIt’s okay to just be here, to breathe, and to trust His timing Resources:Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/shellyniehaus/Simple Shifts Newsletter: https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/midlifeWomen Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/prayercall 

Description:Welcome to Midlife Made Simple—a podcast for faith-driven women in their 40s, 50s, and beyond who are navigating big transitions with a desire to simplify, reconnect, and rediscover what truly matters. In this special kickoff episode, Shelly shares the heart behind the podcast, what you can expect each week, and the six powerful pillars that will guide every conversation.If you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or simply ready for more clarity and connection in this next season, this episode will remind you: you're not alone—and it's not too late to begin again.✨ In this episode, you’ll learn:Why this podcast was created for women in the messy middle of midlifeWhat makes Midlife Made Simple different (short, actionable, soul-aligned)The six core pillars: Faith, Foundations, Fitness, Family & Friends, Fun, and FrameworksHow this podcast will support you with both real-life tools and deep encouragementWhy you don’t need more noise—you need clarity, courage, and connection💌 You’ll feel seen if you’re…Letting go of old roles and asking, “What now?”Craving peace after a season of burnout, hustle, or transitionReady to rebuild your rhythms, relationships, and purpose—with faith as your compass Resources:Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/shellyniehaus/Simple Shifts Newsletter: https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/midlifeWomen Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/prayercall 

Welcome to Midlife Made Simple. In this short trailer, Shelly Niehaus shares the heart behind the podcast and what you can expect moving forward. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, disconnected from your purpose, or unsure of who you are in this season—you’re not alone. This podcast is here to help you simplify life, strengthen your faith, and find peace in your next chapter.Whether you’re navigating an empty nest, caring for aging parents, questioning your identity, or simply longing for a new rhythm—this space was made for you.✨ Key Takeaways:Why Shelly shifted the podcast from marketing to a more soul-aligned missionWhat it means to experience a whole life pivot in midlife—not just a career changeWhat to expect from upcoming episodes:Short, actionable insightsHonest stories and faith-forward conversationsTools to help you build rhythms, deepen your faith, and rediscover your purposeA reminder that midlife transitions are sacred, not something to hustle through🙌 If you're ready to:✅ Trade overwhelm for clarity✅ Grow in your faith✅ Live with intention and peace in this next chapterThen hit follow and come walk this new season with us. Resources:Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/shellyniehaus/Simple Shifts Newsletter: https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/midlifeWomen Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/prayercall 

In this honest and heartfelt episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on a big shift—one that’s been quietly unfolding behind the scenes for months. From turning 50 to launching our twins to college and stepping into the role of caregiver, this season of life has brought deep reflection, unexpected pivots, and a call to let go of what no longer fits.If you’ve ever felt stuck, disoriented, or unsure of what’s next, you’re not alone. This episode is for the woman navigating change and wondering if it’s time to release what once worked to make room for something new.📅 Mark your calendar: A special announcement is coming on Thursday, September 4.Key TakeawaysLetting go isn’t failure—it’s faith and freedom.Sometimes we stay too long because the familiar feels safer than the unknown.God often peels our fingers off slowly when we’re clinging to something too tightly.Midlife transitions—like empty nesting, caregiving, or turning 50—can be sacred invitations to begin again.You’re not alone in the in-between. This podcast is evolving to hold space for your next season, too. Resources:Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/shellyniehaus/Simple Shifts Newsletter: https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/midlifeWomen Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/prayercall 

This week’s episode is short and real—just five minutes.Life doesn’t always go according to plan. In the past two weeks, my family has walked through the loss of my mother-in-law while also moving our boys into college and stepping into the new season of empty nesting.I don’t have the margin for a full episode, and maybe you need to hear that too: sometimes five minutes is enough.In this mini-episode, I share:What happens when life throws curveballsWhy pausing doesn’t mean failingA reminder that God’s timing is always right on timeWe’ll be back next week, September 1, with a full episode: When It’s Time to Pivot. Resources:Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/shellyniehaus/Simple Shifts Newsletter: https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/midlifeWomen Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/prayercall 

📄 Episode Summary:Tired of relying on social media to grow your business? This episode is for you. I’m joined by podcast growth coach and host of Podcast Growth Club, Rayna Rokicki, to unpack how podcasting can become your most powerful marketing tool—whether you start your own show or simply guest on others. We’re talking visibility, audience building, expert positioning, and how to simplify your content strategy by making podcasting your home base.🎧 Key Takeaways:Why podcasting is the platform for high-income, educated, action-taking listenersThe truth about social media optional marketing—and how podcasting supports itHow to pitch yourself as a guest (without hiring a PR firm)Easy ways to build authentic relationships with podcast hostsWhat to consider before launching your own podcastWhy solo episodes help you position yourself as the go-to expertThe ideal podcast episode length and frequency (it’s shorter than you think!)SEO tips to make your podcast more discoverableHow to monetize your podcast without sponsors or a huge audience✅ Action Step This Week:Block 30 minutes to research 3 niche podcasts your audience listens to and brainstorm how you could collaborate or feature the host—before asking to be a guest.🔗 Resources Mentioned:🎙 Podcast Growth Club by Rayna Rokicki – listen to Episode 44 for tips on SEO Resources:Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/shellyniehaus/Simple Shifts Newsletter: https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/midlifeWomen Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/prayercall 

In this episode of Educated, Empowered, Inspired, I’m joined by Laurie Ann Murabito, a speaker, author, and speaking coach, who shares how public speaking can be a game-changer for your business. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just dipping your toes into the world of speaking, Laurie-Ann breaks down practical steps to start speaking and elevate your business, grow your email list, and build meaningful relationships with your audience.Key Takeaways:Public Speaking as a Business Growth Strategy: Laurie Ann explains how speaking is a powerful way to expand your reach, grow your email list, and build brand awareness.Redefining Your Stage: Public speaking doesn't just mean keynotes. Small, local opportunities like networking events or social media can serve as great platforms to start speaking.Practical Tips to Get Started: Laurie Ann emphasizes starting small with your warm market, preparing a couple of well-received topics, and building momentum over time.Adding Value Without Charging Fees: Even if you're not charging a speaker fee, you can still create a solid ROI through email list building, offering free resources, and engaging with your audience.Building Long-Term Relationships: The key to success in public speaking is not just about getting one-time gigs, but about maintaining relationships with event planners and speakers to ensure long-term opportunities. Resources Mentioned:Laurie Ann's new listener guide: speakandstandout.com/shellyLaurie Ann's podcast: Be In Demand (episodes 264 and 268: "Six Speaking Mistakes to Avoid") Resources:Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/shellyniehaus/Simple Shifts Newsletter: https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/midlifeWomen Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/prayercall 

Content creation doesn’t have to be a full-time job—and in this episode, you’ll learn how to make it work for your real life and real business goals.I sat down with Luis Camejo, co-host of the top-ranked Content is Profit podcast and co-founder of BizBros, to talk about building a content engine that fuels your business without draining your energy. Luis breaks down his “Six Levers of Content,” shares his powerful publishing pyramid framework, and gives two brilliant examples of how local service providers can use content (without social media!) to grow their brand and income.Whether you’re just getting started or trying to get consistent, this episode is packed with practical strategies to help you create content that connects—and converts.🎯 Key Takeaways:Why most entrepreneurs struggle with content (hint: they misjudge their resources)How to audit your time, tools, and energy to create a minimum viable content strategyThe “Six Levers of Content” every business should considerWhat to do if you hate social media or don’t want to be on cameraReal examples: how a local wellness center and a Facebook Live strategy led to 6-figure winsWhy consistency trumps complexity when it comes to visibilityA simple 5-day challenge to help you find your voice and build momentumHow to connect with Luis and join the Business Creator Club for weekly content support📌 One Small Step This Week:Try Luis’s “Five Lives” method. Go live five days in a row on your favorite platform. Share one quick story from your day and tie it back to your business or client transformation. Keep it simple. Show up. Watch what happens. Resources:Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/shellyniehaus/Simple Shifts Newsletter: https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/midlifeWomen Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/prayercall 

In this Marketing Makeover Strategy Session, I sit down with Lisa Boehm, a speaker who’s shifting from grief-focused work to broader topics like resilience, burnout, and mental health. She’s ready to get booked consistently—but needed clarity on how to connect with the right audience using the right message.We walk through the foundational pieces of her marketing strategy and identify practical next steps to gain traction in her speaking business.🔑 Key Takeaways:The three-legged stool of marketing: Audience, Offer, and Messaging must align to get results.Messaging is often the missing link—make sure you're speaking your audience’s language.Use Facebook groups to “lurk and listen” for real-world pain points and wording.Interview past attendees to capture transformation stories and dial in what’s working.Don’t create your offers in a vacuum—market research is everything during a pivot. Resources:Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/shellyniehaus/Simple Shifts Newsletter: https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/midlifeWomen Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/prayercall 

In this episode of our Back to Business Coaching Week series, I sit down with product and brand photographer Randy Pyles from Javelin Photography. We dive into how he can grow his client base and build an email list using strategic lead magnets, content repurposing, and a systemized client experience.If you're a service-based entrepreneur looking to attract more clients or better communicate your value, you'll find plenty of ideas to apply to your own business—especially if you've struggled with how to market something that's not easy to explain.Key Takeaways:Why every entrepreneur needs a strong lead magnet—and how to build one from content you already haveThe importance of educating clients who “don’t know what they don’t know” about your serviceHow to identify the pain points your lead magnet should solve (before they’re ready to buy)The power of using blog posts and nurture emails to build trust and guide potential clientsHow Randy’s unique blend of photography + design + workflow gives him a competitive edgeThe key to standing out: speak both the creative and business language your audience needs🎯 Your Challenge This Week:What is one asset you can create or repurpose to solve a problem for your ideal client—even if they’re not ready to buy yet? Start there. Resources:Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/shellyniehaus/Simple Shifts Newsletter: https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/midlifeWomen Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/prayercall 

n this episode of our Back to Business Coaching Week series, I'm joined by Treasure Valley realtor and podcast host Kate McGuire. We dive into her biggest marketing pain point—content overwhelm—and walk through a strategy to streamline her social media and refocus her time on revenue-driving activities.If you’ve ever felt like content creation is a full-time job or you’re managing too many platforms with too little ROI, this one’s for you.Key Takeaways:Start with one core content piece (like a video or podcast) and build everything else around itUse AI tools like Opus.ai and ChatGPT to repurpose, caption, and schedule contentLet go of perfectionism—people want real, not perfectBusiness pages need “proof of life,” but don’t require unique contentStructure before delegation: set up simple systems so a VA can step in and helpYour voice still matters—create the core content, then let tech and team handle the rest Resources:Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/shellyniehaus/Simple Shifts Newsletter: https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/midlifeWomen Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/prayercall 

This week on the podcast, we’re continuing Back to Business Coaching Week with a strategy session for Amber of Andrews Artistry. Amber is a creative entrepreneur who blends photography, design, and performance into a one-of-a-kind branding service for fellow creatives. In this session, we build out a simple, repeatable 90-day marketing plan centered around her top-performing lead magnet.If you’ve ever felt scattered or unsure where to focus your marketing efforts—this episode is for you.💡 Key Takeaways:Anchor your content around one high-converting lead magnet for 90 daysUse the 3 content types—connect, position, invite—to stay consistent on socialPromote your lead magnet more often than you think (seriously!)Align your content with the seasons and your audience’s current conversationsGamify your promotion with the List Building Growth ScorecardRepurpose your best content—no one’s paying as much attention as you are Resources:Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/shellyniehaus/Simple Shifts Newsletter: https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/midlifeWomen Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/prayercall 

n this Back to Business Coaching Week edition, we dive into a Marketing Makeover Strategy Session with Carrie Simpson of Forget Me Not Social — a boutique marketing agency specializing in Pinterest. Carrie is just starting her service-based business and wants to build an email list, set up her systems, and move beyond social media to nurture her dream clients.In this live coaching call, we map out her next steps, including:Why all roads should lead to your lead magnetHow to pick an email service provider (and why I love ConvertKit)What to include in your first nurture sequenceHow to keep things simple and sustainable so you actually take actionWhether you're brand new to email marketing or know you’ve been avoiding it, this episode will give you clarity and confidence to just start.Key Takeaways:Build your list from Day 1 — Even before you have a website or offer, start collecting emails.Start simple — One great lead magnet + one solid email sequence is enough to build momentum.Choose tools you actually enjoy using — If your tech feels clunky, you won’t use it.Segment your audience — Tagging email subscribers allows you to speak directly to their needs.Don’t overthink it — Progress over perfection. Done is better than perfect! Resources:Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/shellyniehaus/Simple Shifts Newsletter: https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/midlifeWomen Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/prayercall 

As a business owner, you want to market consistently—but let’s be real: between client work, admin tasks, and life, it often falls to the bottom of the list. In this episode, I’m sharing a simple 4-step strategy to help you create time in your packed schedule so you can finally show up for your marketing in a way that feels focused, consistent, and doable.If marketing always feels like “one more thing” on your list, this episode is for you.💡 Key Takeaways:The difference between working in your business vs. working on your business—and why it matters.A step-by-step breakdown to audit your weekly schedule and reclaim time for growth activities.Why I never miss a Marketing Monday—and how you can create your own “meeting with yourself.”How to essentialize your work environment and remove distractions so you actually get things done.The power of theme days to reduce decision fatigue and make marketing feel simple and repeatable. Resources:Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/shellyniehaus/Simple Shifts Newsletter: https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/midlifeWomen Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/prayercall 

Feeling overwhelmed by your to-do list? Dreading Mondays before the week even begins? In this short and powerful episode, Shelly shares the simple weekly planning routine that transformed her business—and eliminated the dreaded Sunday Scaries.You’ll learn how to use a 3-step weekly reset to organize your time, boost your productivity, and reclaim your peace of mind. Whether you're a pen-and-paper person or love your digital calendar, this method can be tailored to fit your life and business.What You’ll Learn:The #1 routine that keeps Shelly’s week on track (and her mind calm)Why reflecting on the previous week is essential before you plan aheadHow to consolidate all your commitments into one clear weekly planThe “Weekly Big 3” system that helps eliminate overwhelm and shiny object syndromeHow this planning rhythm helps business owners manage both work and family life with more easeWeekly Action Step:📅 Set aside 30–60 minutes this weekend to plan your week using Shelly’s 3-step process:Reflect on last week’s wins and lessonsReview the upcoming calendarReset your priorities by identifying your Weekly Big 3  Resources:Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/shellyniehaus/Simple Shifts Newsletter: https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/midlifeWomen Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/prayercall 

Feeling overwhelmed by all the moving pieces in your business? You’re not alone. In this episode, I’m sharing the seven productivity tools that have brought clarity, focus, and peace to my workdays. These aren’t just hacks—they’re simple, intentional shifts that help you reclaim your time, protect your energy, and build the life and business you’ve been dreaming of.Whether you’re in a season of rebuilding or just looking for a better rhythm, these tools will help you stop spinning your wheels and start moving forward with purpose.Key Takeaways:How theme days create structure and help you show up with intentionWhy the Full Focus Planner helps simplify your daily decision-makingThe $10 phone box that eliminates distractions and boosts deep workHow to set up a workspace that calms your nervous system and sparks creativityA timer technique (Pomodoro) that builds momentum and prevents burnoutThe importance of protecting your eyes and energy with blue light glassesHow sticky notes can clear mental clutter and keep you focused on what matters👉 Grab the Resource Guide for links to everything mentioned in this episode. Resources:Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/shellyniehaus/Simple Shifts Newsletter: https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/midlifeWomen Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/prayercall 

Ever wonder how your clients, colleagues, or friends actually experience you? In this episode, we’re doing a fun (and powerful) personal branding exercise to uncover the top words people associate with you—and how to use those words to create stronger messaging and more aligned marketing. You’ll walk away with a simple, practical tool you can implement this week to clarify your brand voice and boost your confidence.Key Takeaways:Why self-perception can limit your brand clarity—and what to do insteadA simple 3-step Word Cloud Exercise to reveal how others describe youHow to use those words to shape your content, messaging, and confidenceA mindset shift to move past the fear of “asking for feedback”How this one exercise can help you attract better-fit clientsBonus tip: Use AI to spot your brand tone or repurpose adjectives into messagingAction Plan: Ask 10 people for 3 adjectives, identify your top traits, and reflect them in your brand Resources:Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/shellyniehaus/Simple Shifts Newsletter: https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/midlifeWomen Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/prayercall 

In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most powerful branding tools you already have—your personal stories. If you’ve ever wondered what to post or felt like your content just isn’t landing, this one’s for you. You’ll learn how to build a story bank, connect more deeply with your audience, and stop overthinking your content. Because people don’t buy services—they buy stories.Key Takeaways:You don’t need a dramatic backstory to be impactful—relatable wins and struggles are what connect.Storytelling builds trust and makes your brand more memorable.Use everyday moments to reflect your values, lessons, and client transformations.Start building a story bank of 10 real-life experiences you can pull from anytime.Use AI to turn your stories into shareable content without losing your voice.The more you share your story, the more connection and conversions you’ll create. Resources:Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/shellyniehaus/Simple Shifts Newsletter: https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/midlifeWomen Entrepreneurs In Prayer Call - https://resources.shellyniehaus.com/prayercall