Midlife Lady Leisure Pursuits

Sarah and Meagan both love secondhand finds—for different reasons. While Sarah’s thrifting pursuits are typically driven by practicality and sustainability, Meagan tends to follow a vibes-first approach to antiquing.In this episode, Meagan dives into her love of vintage housewares and the teacups, embroidered linens, and kitchen pieces that catch her eye at antique malls and thrift stores. She talks about the eras and styles she’s most drawn to, why certain pieces feel impossible to leave behind, and how collecting often starts with a feeling rather than a need. Meagan also shares how her tastes have evolved over time and talks honestly about how she’s learned to pass along once-loved treasures that no longer fit her home or lifestyle, and why letting go is part of the joy of living with old things.Find an expanded episode story with photos and links at http://www.midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com. Thank you to our exclusive podcast sponsor, Vionic! Check out our favorite styles at https://midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com/p/vionic.Listeners of Midlife Lady Leisure Pursuits can use code MIDLIFE at vionicshoes.com to save 15% when you log into your account. One time use only.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

If you could choose, which would you rather do: take a really long guided walk or bike ride? Go on a pilgrimage? Escape into a creative retreat? Head out on a safari? Or take a river cruise? In this episode, Meagan and Sarah explore a handful of different types of midlife “fantasy trips” that we've watched the older people in our lives embark on, then discuss which ones appeal the most, which ones we'd pass on, and why. Find an expanded episode story with photos and links at http://www.midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com. Thank you to our exclusive podcast sponsor, Vionic! Check out our favorite styles at https://midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com/p/vionic.Listeners of Midlife Lady Leisure Pursuits can use code MIDLIFE at vionicshoes.com to save 15% when you log into your account. One time use only.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Paprika? Yes please. Smoked paprika? No, thank you. In this episode, Meagan and Sarah dig into the world of spices and seasonings including our preferences and purchasing habits. We dish about the flavorings we can’t live without, the jars we somehow keep over-buying (curse you, autoship!), and the go-to staples that always seem to be missing right when we need them. We talk about how we actually store our seasonings including some spice-cabinet snafus, the flavors we reach for on repeat, and the ones we think are seriously overrated.Find an expanded episode story with photos and links at http://www.midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com. Thank you to our exclusive podcast sponsor, Vionic! Check out our favorite styles at https://midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com/p/vionic.Listeners of Midlife Lady Leisure Pursuits can use code MIDLIFE at vionicshoes.com to save 15% when you log into your account. One time use only.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hard cover or soft? Lined, grid, or blank? Felt-tip, roller-ball, or gel? When it comes to the tools we use to jot down everything from daily to-do lists and menu plans to our bigger-picture dreams, those writing utensils and vessels matter (and to us, they matter a lot.) In this episode, Sarah and Meagan geek out over the notebooks, journals, pens, and paper that make our creative and practical lives tick. Find an expanded episode story with photos and links at http://www.midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com. Thank you to our exclusive podcast sponsor, Vionic! Check out our favorite styles at https://midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com/p/vionic.Listeners of Midlife Lady Leisure Pursuits can use code MIDLIFE at vionicshoes.com to save 15% when you log into your account. One time use only.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Each of the Ladies have had a different experience of yoga: Sarah was introduced as a way to support her body during years of professional dance and has sampled a variety of classes, while Meagan discovered the practice through a book of her mom’s as a little girl and has practiced regularly with the same studio for years. In this episode we both talk about the part yoga has played in our lives, how our practice has changed in midlife, and how we hope it will help us move through our older years.Find an expanded episode story with photos and links at http://www.midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com. Thank you to our exclusive podcast sponsor, Vionic! Check out our favorite styles at https://midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com/p/vionic.Listeners of Midlife Lady Leisure Pursuits can use code MIDLIFE at vionicshoes.com to save 15% when you log into your account. One time use only.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Why do some activities that are a lot of work feel so leisurely...and, conversely, why does "leisure" sometimes feel like a lot of work? In our first episode of 2026, Meagan and Sarah unpack the origins of this podcast, how freedom, agency, pace and choice play into how we perceive an activity, the difference between hobbies and leisure, and what the "midlife lady" in leisure pursuits means to each of us. Find an expanded episode story with photos and links at http://www.midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com. Thank you to our exclusive podcast sponsor, Vionic! Check out our favorite styles at https://midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com/p/vionic.Listeners of Midlife Lady Leisure Pursuits can use code MIDLIFE at vionicshoes.com to save 15% when you log into your account. One time use only.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

It’s cozy reading season, and Meagan and Sarah are swapping notes on the titles that have been making them laugh, cry, and think lately, from whodunits and magical realism to small-town cozies and at least one jaw-dropping expose. This episode - the last of 2025! - is the perfect inspiration as you plan your 2026 to-read list or choose a title or two to delve into over the holiday. Find an expanded episode story with photos and links at http://www.midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com. Thank you to our exclusive podcast sponsor, Vionic! Check out our favorite styles at https://midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com/p/vionic.Listeners of Midlife Lady Leisure Pursuits can use code MIDLIFE at vionicshoes.com to save 15% when you log into your account. One time use only.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Is there a difference between a grain salad and a grain bowl? And if so, who cares? In this episode, Meagan and Sarah dive into the ultra-satisfying world of these nourishing, versatile, and delicious dishes defined by warm grains, with the ultra-necessary addition of sweet, savory, chewy and crunchy. We talk about our midlife discovery (or rediscovery) of these flexible, flavorful meals as weeknight staples and the ultimate in satisfying leftovers; and the ingredients, grains, flavor profiles, and quirky habits that make our bowls uniquely ours. From chewy farro and salty-sweet combos to roasted root vegetables and creamy drizzles, this episode will leave you inspired to build your own warm bowls all winter long.Find an expanded episode story with photos and links at http://www.midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com. Thank you to our exclusive podcast sponsor, Vionic! Check out our favorite styles at https://midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com/p/vionic.Listeners of Midlife Lady Leisure Pursuits can use code MIDLIFE at vionicshoes.com to save 15% when you log into your account. One time use only.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

When it comes to making holiday gifts by hand, our spirits are willing, but time is short - and sometimes, our skills are weak. In this cozy early-December chat, Meagan and Sarah share our thoughts about handmade and DIY gifts - what we've made and given in the past, what we're hoping to make and give this year, and how we plan to keep it all organized. From edible treats to embroidered tea towels, personalized notecards to knitted washcloths, we're getting real about our own over-ambitious tendencies and how we hope to overcome hurdles so we can give more thoughtful, personalized gifts that align with our midlife goals of less waste and consumerism.Find an expanded episode story with photos and links at http://www.midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com. Thank you to our exclusive podcast sponsor, Vionic! Check out our favorite styles at https://midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com/p/vionic.Listeners of Midlife Lady Leisure Pursuits can use code MIDLIFE at vionicshoes.com to save 15% when you log into your account. One time use only.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Who says napping isn't a legitimate leisure pursuit? In this episode Sarah and Meagan share why they love naps, discuss their favorite napping circumstances, and the challenges to sneaking in those daytime Zzzzz's, ponder "caffeine naps" and nap attacks, and mine the data surrounding ideal nap length. Find an expanded episode story with photos and links at http://www.midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com. Thank you to our exclusive podcast sponsor, Vionic! Check out our favorite styles at https://midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com/p/vionic.Listeners of Midlife Lady Leisure Pursuits can use code MIDLIFE at vionicshoes.com to save 15% when you log into your account. One time use only.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

While Meagan’s loved drinking tea for a long time, lately she’s gotten really, really - we mean, really into it. In this episode we uncover some surprising things you may not know about tea (what’s the actual difference between white, green, oolong, and black tea? How did it become such a popular drink in the Western world? Are herbal “teas” really tea?) while Meagan encourages people who think they don’t like tea to try again - with better tea this time. Meagan also shares more about the process she’s going through to become a Certified Tea Sommelier, as well as what’s coming up for her tea company Bevy and her new tea-adjacent YouTube channel.Find an expanded episode story with photos and links at http://www.midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com. Thank you to our exclusive podcast sponsor, Vionic! Check out our favorite styles at https://midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com/p/vionic.Listeners of Midlife Lady Leisure Pursuits can use code MIDLIFE at vionicshoes.com to save 15% when you log into your account. One time use only.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Sarah takes a methodical approach to TV-watching and clocks an impressive number of series each year, while Meagan enjoys random docu-series and the occasional BBC binge - but, we both love television! In this episode we each unpack our watching habits, share some shows we’ve loved (and some we could have lived without), and discuss our television goals for 2026.Find an expanded episode story with photos and links at http://www.midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com. Thank you to our exclusive podcast sponsor, Vionic! Check out our favorite styles at https://midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com/p/vionic.Listeners of Midlife Lady Leisure Pursuits can use code MIDLIFE at vionicshoes.com to save 15% when you log into your account. One time use only.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

If you don't read every historic plaque you pass, are you even in midlife? (Related: have we both become our own mothers in this regard?) In this episode Sarah and Meagan share our penchant for a good, old-fashioned plaque perusal, and discuss visiting historical sites, monuments and museums more generally.Find an expanded episode story with photos and links at http://www.midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com. Thank you to our exclusive podcast sponsor, Vionic! Check out our favorite styles at https://midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com/p/vionic.Listeners of Midlife Lady Leisure Pursuits can use code MIDLIFE at vionicshoes.com to save 15% when you log into your account. One time use only.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

For fun, for fitness, and just for getting around, we're big fans of getting places on our own two feet. In this episode Meagan and Sarah discuss the role of walking in our midlife leisure pursuits: where we walk, why we walk - and of course, how we feel about weighted vests. Find an expanded episode story with photos and links at http://www.midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com. Thank you to our exclusive podcast sponsor, Vionic! Check out our favorite styles at https://midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com/p/vionic.Listeners of Midlife Lady Leisure Pursuits can use code MIDLIFE at vionicshoes.com to save 15% when you log into your account. One time use only.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

From our go-to granola to Sarah's super-healthy grain bowl to Meagan's historic cooking deep-dives, recipes are an important source of information and inspiration in our midlife kitchens. In this episode we share where we look for recipes, how we use them, and what's cooking next. Find an expanded episode story with photos and links at http://www.midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com. Thank you to our exclusive podcast sponsor, Vionic! Check out our favorite styles at https://midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com/p/vionic.Listeners of Midlife Lady Leisure Pursuits can use code MIDLIFE at vionicshoes.com to save 15% when you log into your account. One time use only.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Is there any hobby that's more midlife-coded than birdwatching? In this episode Meagan and Sarah share how this pandemic pastime turned into what we hope will be a lifelong leisure pursuit, and share some of the books and products we use to identify and enjoy our feathered friends. Find an expanded episode story with photos and links at http://www.midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com. Thank you to our exclusive podcast sponsor, Vionic! Check out our favorite styles at https://midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com/p/vionic.Listeners of Midlife Lady Leisure Pursuits can use code MIDLIFE at vionicshoes.com to save 15% when you log into your account. One time use only.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Sarah's a seasoned shopper for secondhand clothes; Meagan gets overwhelmed sifting through racks to find treasures. In this episode Sarah shares the methodology and motives that drive her thrift hauls, shares some recent scores, and offers a few tips for secondhand success.Find an expanded episode story with photos and links at http://www.midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com. Thank you to our exclusive podcast sponsor, Vionic! Check out our favorite styles at https://midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com/p/vionic.Listeners of Midlife Lady Leisure Pursuits can use code MIDLIFE at vionicshoes.com to save 15% when you log into your account. One time use only.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In our modern world we’ve become so accustomed to looking to the grocery store for food and the pharmacy for medicine that we sometimes forget: food and medicine are all around us! In this episode Meagan shares why she began foraging for wild plants in her forties, how she got started, where she goes to forage, safety practices, and how she uses the herbs, mushrooms and berries she finds.Find an expanded episode story with photos and links at http://www.midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com. Thank you to our exclusive podcast sponsor, Vionic! Check out our favorite styles at https://midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com/p/vionic.Listeners of Midlife Lady Leisure Pursuits can use code MIDLIFE at vionicshoes.com to save 15% when you log into your account. One time use only.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Sarah's house is a hop, skip, and jump from the Pacific Ocean. Meagan is a stone's throw from Lake Michigan. But each of these midlife ladies enjoys her own personal beach culture. In this episode Meagan and Sarah talk about how they "do" the beach, from floppy hats to favorite beverages, backpack chairs to beach reads. Find an expanded episode story with photos and links at http://www.midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com. Thank you to our exclusive podcast sponsor, Vionic! Check out our favorite styles at https://midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com/p/vionic.Listeners of Midlife Lady Leisure Pursuits can use code MIDLIFE at vionicshoes.com to save 15% when you log into your account. One time use only.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

For decades, most of our longer car rides involved, at the very least, a spouse - and usually, a car full of kids as well. In midlife, Meagan and Sarah are leaning into more and more opportunities for solo car travel, and in this episode we discuss where we're going, what we're listening to, and where we're stopping along the way - as well as the midlife-lady lessons we're learning from leaning into those solo hours on the road.Find an expanded episode story with photos and links at http://www.midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com. Thank you to our exclusive podcast sponsor, Vionic! Check out our favorite styles at https://midlifeladyleisurepursuits.substack.com/p/vionic.Listeners of Midlife Lady Leisure Pursuits can use code MIDLIFE at vionicshoes.com to save 15% when you log into your account. One time use only.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy