Midlife & Beyond with Jo Blackwell

Have you ever lost your glasses while you’re wearing them, or walked into a room and completely forgotten why you went there? Most of us put moments like these down to “getting older”, but are they really something to worry about?In this episode, I revisit some of the most reassuring insights from my conversation with Dr Mitch Clionsky, who explains why everyday forgetfulness is usually benign, often linked to tiredness, stress, hormones, or simply having too much on our minds. We explore why dementia is not inevitable, why only a very small percentage is genetically caused, and how things like sleep, blood pressure, hearing, and lifestyle play a far bigger role than we’re often led to believe.This is a calm, practical, and hopeful look at memory in midlife, and a reminder that there are many things we can do to protect our brains and live well as we grow older. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

Your breath is like a remote control for your nervous system, and you have far more control over it than you think.In this episode, Sam Adams explains why breathwork isn’t about doing something fancy or ‘woo’, but about learning how to signal safety to your body, especially in midlife, when stress, sleep disruption, pain and anxiety can quietly take hold.From grief and trauma to menopause, chronic pain and brain health, we explore how conscious breathing can help us regulate our nervous systems, think more clearly, sleep more deeply, and feel more at ease in ourselves.A calm, compassionate conversation about remembering something ancient - and learning to breathe again. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

One of the most dangerous ideas is that exhaustion means you’re weak. In reality, burnout often happens to the most capable, conscientious people, the ones who’ve been holding everything together for years.In this conversation, GP and burnout coach Caroline Steel explains why burnout isn’t a breakdown, but a warning. We talk about how overwhelm shows up in the body, why midlife can be the tipping point, and how many women are taught, from a young age, to put everyone else first and ignore their own needs.From feeling paralysed by simple decisions, to losing touch with who you are outside of work, motherhood, or caregiving, this episode gently names what so many women experience but rarely say out loud.Most importantly, it offers hope. Burnout is something you can recover from, and recovery doesn’t start with fixing everything. It starts with listening to yourself again. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

If you’re on a diet this year, there’s one thing I really want you to hear - and I’m going to say it straight away in this solo episode, not save it for the end.If you’re dieting, you must start weight training.So many of us have been dieting for decades. We’ve slowed our metabolism, lost muscle along the way, and denied our bodies the nutrients they actually need, all in the pursuit of being slimmer. But as we get older, hormones change the rules, and quick-fix diets stop working the way they once did.Strength training isn’t about bulking up. It’s about protecting your bones, your muscles, your independence - and your future self.Focus on strength this year, whether you're dieting or not. Your older body will thank you for it. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

Have you lost your sense of adventure? In this inspiring conversation, I talk with Louisa Swaden - The Existential Biker - about rediscovering courage, embracing fear, finding meaning through movement, and saying “yes” to possibility in midlife. From getting back on a motorbike at nearly 50 to racing on the Bonneville Salt Flats, Louisa shows that this stage of life can be bold, expansive and deeply alive, and that adventure doesn’t have to be huge to be life-changing. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

Many of us, particularly sensitive, creative, or neurodivergent women, have spent decades pushing through overwhelm without understanding what our bodies were trying to tell us.In this conversation, Peggy Cheyo explains how somatic practices, like gentle movement, dance, and embodied awareness can help regulate the nervous system without forcing insight or reliving trauma. Instead of analysing, we allow the body to lead, and often, something shifts.As I share in the episode, my own resistance to somatic movement gave way to an unexpected emotional release, a reminder that when we stop living only in our heads and begin listening to our bodies, healing can happen in quiet, surprising ways.This episode is an invitation to soften, to listen, and to explore what might help you feel safer, calmer, and more at home in yourself, especially in midlife and beyond. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

Are you finding it hard to stay inspired as you get older? This video is all about rediscovering motivation and embracing new sources of inspiration, especially for those over 60! Join me as I share the things that help me feel inspired, from art, books, and podcasts to the beauty of nature, family, and even surprising music choices. Explore practical tips on how to revive your creativity, find new interests, and stay engaged in life. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

We've been lied to about ageing. In this video, I'm busting myths about ageing that we've been fed for far too long. From the belief that decline is inevitable to the idea that you can't lose weight, learn new things, or have a love life after 50—none of it is the full truth. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

In this conversation, I'm talking with fitness expert, Sam Palmer, about how to stay strong after 50 - and why it's so important. Sam emphasises the importance of incorporating various types of exercise and introduces her “Feel Great in 8” program designed for beginners. To find out more, check out her website:https://www.midlifemakeover.co.uk/8-week-midlife-fitness This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

Have you ever looked around and thought, "Is this it?" That’s exactly how I felt in my late 40s. After years of parenting and putting my own dreams on hold, I hit a point where I felt like I’d lost my confidence, my identity — even my purpose. But I also discovered that it’s never too late to change direction. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

If you've ever felt invisible or unsure about how to dress in your 50s, 60s and beyond, this conversation will reignite your confidence and inspire you to live a more colourful life. NICKY'S BOOK: https://amzn.to/4r9fWAX WATCH THIS CONVERSATION ON YOUTUBE HERE: https://youtu.be/5ekreafj2Fk This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

As Albert Einstein said, “Logic will get you from A to B, but imagination will get you anywhere.”In this reflective solo episode, Jo shares the remarkable story of her grandfather’s survival in World War II and explores how imagination can sustain us through even the darkest times. She invites you to rekindle your own creative spirit - to dream again, to hope again - and to remember that imagination isn’t childish. It’s powerful, healing, and essential to thriving in midlife and beyond. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

What is happiness, really — and can we learn to be happier? In this week’s conversation, Jo talks to Christina Lenway, a Happiness Educator and author, about the science and practice of happiness. Christina shares how a personal crisis led her to study happiness academically and discover evidence-based ways to create more joy, meaning, and fulfillment in everyday life.They explore how happiness isn’t a destination but a skill — one we can strengthen through intention, awareness, and daily practice. From “dialing up the good” emotions to using breathwork and gratitude to shift perspective, Christina explains simple, practical tools anyone can use to feel lighter, calmer, and more at peace.This is an inspiring and grounded look at how midlife can be a time to reclaim happiness on your own terms — not by pretending everything’s fine, but by choosing how you respond, finding purpose, and building emotional resilience.Thanks for reading Midlife & Beyond with Jo Blackwell! Subscribe for so you don’t miss new posts and episodes.💡 In This Episode* Why happiness is a learnable skill, not a lucky accident* The surprising science behind positive emotions* How to “dial up” joy and “dial down” negativity* What Viktor Frankl and the Holocaust can teach us about inner freedom* The difference between healthy optimism and toxic positivity* How breathwork and gratitude retrain your brain for happiness* Why knowing your values and strengths is key to fulfillment* Courage, authenticity, and choosing who you want to be — not who life made you—Connect with Jo BlackwellLinks: https://linktr.ee/joblackwellukYouTube: Jo Blackwell – Midlife & BeyondEmail: jo@joblackwell.co.ukHelping women 50+ feel braver, bolder, and happier — redefining how we age.Thanks for reading Midlife & Beyond with Jo Blackwell! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

In this solo episode, I open up about the things I let go of in my 50s - from 20/20 vision and flexibility to old identities that no longer fit - and the powerful things I’ve gained in their place.Our 50s can feel like a season of loss, but they can also be a time of rediscovery. Now in my 60s, I see how letting go made space for self-knowledge, resilience, and wisdom, and how ageing can be a beautiful act of becoming.If you’re navigating midlife, this episode is for you. Together, we’ll explore what we lose, what we find, and how to embrace this transformative decade with strength, courage, and a little humour.—Connect with Jo BlackwellNewsletter: joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.comYouTube: Jo Blackwell – Midlife & BeyondInstagram: @joblackwell_midlifeEmail: jo@joblackwell.co.uk🎧 Helping women 50+ feel braver, bolder, and happier — redefining how we age. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

Is self-care selfish - or essential? In this honest and uplifting conversation, Jo Blackwell chats with Honor Marks, founder of Honestly with Honor and creator of Magical Midlife MEtreats, about why caring for yourself in midlife isn’t indulgent - it’s vital.Together, they explore guilt, boundaries, and the power of female friendship, along with the story behind Honor’s MEtreats - creative, connection-filled getaways for women who need a break that truly restores.If you’ve ever struggled to put yourself first, this episode will help you see self-care not as selfish, but as sacred.Learn more: honestlywithhonor.com/magical-midlife-metreats—Connect with Jo BlackwellLinks: https://linktr.ee/joblackwellukYouTube: Jo Blackwell – Midlife & BeyondEmail: jo@joblackwell.co.ukHelping women 50+ feel braver, bolder, and happier — redefining how we age. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

In this solo episode, Jo Blackwell reflects on nine life lessons she wishes she could share with her 18-year-old self. Each one is a message of self-compassion, resilience, and empowerment — from navigating early marriage and motherhood to understanding self-worth and the courage to choose joy.If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt, questioned your choices, or felt weighed down by expectations, this episode is your reminder that it’s never too late to embrace who you truly are.Listen in for an honest reflection on life, love, ageing, and happiness — and join Jo in celebrating the beauty of becoming.💬 What would you tell your younger self? —Connect with Jo BlackwellLinks: https://linktr.ee/joblackwellukYouTube: Jo Blackwell – Midlife & BeyondEmail: jo@joblackwell.co.ukHelping women 50+ feel braver, bolder, and happier — redefining how we age. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

Have you just waved your child off to university, college, or maybe even to start a new life far away? Whether it's their first big step out on their own or they're starting a new chapter as adults, this episode is all about the unique, sometimes challenging experience of “letting go.”Let’s talk about what it really means to be there for them—without hovering—and how to make sure you’re also taking care of you. Here’s to honoring the journey and moving forward with love. 💖 Share your experiences in the comments!—Connect with Jo BlackwellLinks: https://linktr.ee/joblackwellukYouTube: Jo Blackwell – Midlife & BeyondEmail: jo@joblackwell.co.ukHelping women 50+ feel braver, bolder, and happier — redefining how we age. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

In today's world, growing older isn't what it used to be. We now expect a longer, more active life than our parents' and grandparents' generations.This episode explores how the stages of life have evolved over the past century and introduces two thought leaders, Chip Conley and Barbara Waxman, who have reshaped how we view ageing.Covering how life expectancy has shifted from the early 1900s to now, how adolescence was discovered, and why midlife is no longer just a pit stop. We discuss "Middlescence," a new life stage that mirrors adolescence but in reverse, and how this transitional period can help us prepare for a fulfilling second half of life.Whether you're in your 40s, 50s, or 60s, this video offers empowering insights on how to embrace midlife and beyond. Discover the concept of wisdom workers, the importance of mentorship, and why ageing in the 21st century is more about growing whole than growing old.📺 Watch the TED Talks mentioned in the video: Chip Conley and  Barbara Waxman—Connect with Jo BlackwellLinks: https://linktr.ee/joblackwellukYouTube: Jo Blackwell – Midlife & BeyondEmail: jo@joblackwell.co.ukHelping women 50+ feel braver, bolder, and happier — redefining how we age. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

**10 Things I Quit in My 50s That Made Me Happier in My 60s** 🌟In this solo episode, I share the 10 life-changing things I gave up in my 50s that have improved my life in my 60s. From quitting uncomfortable clothing and rushing through life to ditching doom-scrolling and learning to say "no," these decisions have boosted my happiness and well-being. If you're in your 50s or beyond, or simply looking for ways to simplify and improve your life, this video is for you!Join the conversation in the comments on YouTube – what do you no longer do that makes you happier? Subscribe for more conversations about life after 50, 60, 70Please browse my website, where you can buy my books, and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com

Feeling like you're too old to chase your dreams? Think again.In this Podcast, I share personal stories, from a shocking hospital visit to conversations that challenged my views on aging. The words we hear, both from others and ourselves, have the power to shape how we live.If you’re telling yourself you’re too old to run that 5K, fall in love, or start a new career, then you might be limiting your potential. I challenge you to rethink those beliefs and see aging in a new light. Let’s break free from the stereotypes and embrace the possibilities that lie ahead!Join the conversation in the comments on YouTube – what limiting beliefs about age hold you back? Subscribe for more conversations about life after 50, 60, 70Please browse my website, where you can buy my books, and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit joblackwellmidlifeandbeyond.substack.com