Midlife & Beyond with Jo Blackwell

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

At a Crossroads in Your 60s? Let’s Talk About Reinventing Ourselves!At 63, after 14 years as a brand photographer and founder of The Midlife Movement, I find myself at another life crossroads. Like many of us navigating midlife and beyond, I'm asking, What’s next?In this podcast, I reflect on my journey, from overcoming midlife struggles in my 50s to facing new questions in my 60s. —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

HRT - is it right for you? In this conversation, Dr Ferhat Uddin, NHS General Practitioner and Founder of the private Menopause Clinic, Liberty Health, explains what happens to women's hormones during menopause and answers Jo's questions.If you book a consultation with Dr Uddin, mention The Midlife Movement or Jo Blackwell for 10% off all services.0:00 Intro0:33 Doctor education on menopause2:48 Working in partnership with doctors5:04 Reliable sources of information5:54 What happens to women's hormones in their 40s?7:08 What happens after periods stop altogether?8:05 The effect of Oestrogen on the body9:17 Progesterone11:13 Testosterone13:13 Is there a blood test for perimenopause?14:41 Supplements and natural remedies15:59 The medicalization of menopause - for and against17:11 HRT myths 18:15 Risks and Benefits of HRT19:41 Talking to your doctor21:23 Liberty Health ClinicIf you've enjoyed this conversation, PLEASE LIKE & SUBSCRIBE.The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when we stop seeing ourselves. See my LinkTree, where you can buy my books, browse my website 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

Is it time to redefine your career success? Perhaps your career has been put on the back burner while you've supported others and you want to go all out now you've hit midlife? My guest this week, Rachel Power, draws on her own experience and years of Leadership Coaching to help you answer the "what now?" for your work life.Buy Rachel's book, "Redefining Career Success: Taking Charge with the P.O.W.E.R Method" "The Body Keeps the Score" by Bessel van der Kolk."The Menopause Brain" by Lisa Misconi0:00 Is it time to prioritise your career?2:06 Why do so many women leave the workplace in midlife?6:52 Talking about menopause openly10:48 Filling leadership gaps12:01 P - Personal Paradigm Awareness 13:15 How self aware are we, really?14:46 O - Own your Value17:49 W - Wielding your Power19:56 E - Evolving your Support Network22:14 R - Releasing Emotional Baggage24:32 Taming your inner criticIf you've enjoyed this conversation, PLEASE LIKE & SUBSCRIBE.  The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when we stop seeing ourselves. See my LinkTree, where you can buy my books, browse my website and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources: https://linktr.ee/joblackwelluk 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

Do you want to increase your healthspan and age as healthily and naturally as possible? Join me this week as I talk to Naturopath and Perimenopause specialist, Sara Southgate.0:00 The Key to a Long and Healthy Life1:43 The Role of Stomach Acid4:32 Tips to increase Stomach Acid7:35 Inflammation11:35 The Best Type of Exercise for women over 4013:00 Stress and Aging16:16 Tips to Switch Quickly from Stressed to Relaxed16:38 Havening19:39 A 3-pronged Naturopathic Approach22:49 HerbalismFind out more about Sara's approach on her website. If you've enjoyed this conversation, PLEASE LIKE & SUBSCRIBE.About the Midlife and Beyond Podcast.Like all transitions, midlife can be messy & sad & glorious all at once, leaving many midlife women feeling rather alone & somewhat invisible. But what does this transition we are experiencing lead to?I'm Jo Blackwell, a photographer, author and coach for women who want more from their lives post 50 and I'm here to remind you that if we manage our health and embrace it, growing older can lead to one of the greatest periods of growth and transformation of our lives.The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when we stop seeing ourselves. See my LinkTree, where you can buy my books, browse my website 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

Laurie Gerber has been advising women and couples for over 20 years - here's what she has to say about the joys of dating after 50 - and how to be successful at it!For more of Laurie's dating resources check out her FREE webinar: "3 Secrets to Finding and Maintaining Healthy Love without Repeated Disappointments"Learn:✓How to be Ready to Date Like You Mean It in 30 Days or Less✓The #1 Ingredient to Finding A Suitable Companion without Repeated Disappointment✓Essential Elements to Effective Communication even about the Most Awkward Topics✓PLUS: The Key to Finding Your Soulmate in Way Less Dates!REGISTER HERE: www.lauriegerber.com/webinarKey moments from this conversation:0:00 Are you ready for love?3:06 the 3 stages of dating7:07 what are your liabilities?12:30 online dating15:40 staying safe online17:50 red flags19:08 best practice for meeting20:40 couples coaching23:09 relationships over 50If you've enjoyed this conversation, PLEASE DO LIKE & SUBSCRIBE.About the Midlife and Beyond Podcast.Like all transitions, midlife can be messy & sad & glorious all at once, leaving many midlife women feeling rather alone & somewhat invisible. But what does this transition we are experiencing lead to?I'm Jo Blackwell, a photographer, author and coach for women who want more from their lives post 50 and I'm here to remind you that if we manage our health and embrace it, growing older can lead to one of the greatest periods of growth and transformation of our lives.The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when we stop seeing ourselves.See my LinkTree, where you can buy my books, browse my website and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources: https://linktr.ee/joblackwelluk 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 thought about becoming a creator on YouTube? Or wondered about what drives those who do?At 45, Alexa Saarenoja made a bold transition from a distinguished career in architecture and design to a full-time content creator on YouTube. Through her channel and consulting firm, she combines her passion for teaching with her own transformative experience, guiding midlifers to set and achieve their goals and create lives they love.Check out Alexa's channel here: youtube.com/@alexasaarenoja To download Alexa's guide for New YouTubers,: https://mailchi.mp/6895a2633c7f/youtube-email-collectionOther channels we mentioned in the episode: Silver and Solo: https://www.youtube.com/@UCI6cnQSTzRc3MInral3a2fwReflections of Life: https://www.youtube.com/@ReflectionsofLifeCheck them out!0:00 Do you use YouTube?1:07 Redundancy at 456:58 Vulnerability9:07 Dealing with negativity15:28 Midlife diversity18:00 What’s good about YouTube21:16 Starting your own YouTube ChannelIf you've enjoyed this conversation, PLEASE LIKE & SUBSCRIBE.About the Midlife and Beyond Podcast.Like all transitions, midlife can be messy & sad & glorious all at once, leaving many midlife women feeling rather alone & somewhat invisible. But what does this transition we are experiencing lead to? I'm Jo Blackwell, a photographer, author and coach for women who want more from their lives post 50 and I'm here to remind you that if we manage our health and embrace it, growing older can lead to one of the greatest periods of growth and transformation of our lives.The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when we stop seeing ourselves. See my LinkTree, where you can buy my books, browse my website and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources: https://linktr.ee/joblackwelluk 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

Why do we over eat? And how do we make peace with food?Join me and Sherry Shaban to talk about how trapped trauma, stress and hormones affect how we eat, exercise and live!Sherry Shaban is an osteopath and an anti-diet health and life coach from Montreal, Quebec. She is the founder of the Fall in Love with Fitness Podcast, the HIIT Decks™ App, and Make Peace with Food™, the leaders in an anti-diet approach that rewires the brain’s relationship with food to naturally release bodyweight struggles forever.Download Sherry's free workbook here: https://makepeacewithfood.com/0:00 Are you an emotional eater?3:51 Why diets aren't the answer6:02 The role of the nervous system17:18 Trapped trauma20:24 Somatic solutions22:49 Who do you follow on Instagram?23:32 Muscle mass loss27:07 Understanding hormones30:56 Intuitive eatingIf you've enjoyed this conversation, PLEASE LIKE & SUBSCRIBE.About the Midlife and Beyond Podcast.Like all transitions, midlife can be messy & sad & glorious all at once, leaving many midlife women feeling rather alone & somewhat invisible. But what does this transition we are experiencing lead to?I'm Jo Blackwell, a photographer, author and coach for women who want more from their lives post 50 and I'm here to remind you that if we manage our health and embrace it, growing older can lead to one of the greatest periods of growth and transformation of our lives.The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when we stop seeing ourselves. See my LinkTree, where you can buy my books, browse my website and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources: https://linktr.ee/joblackwelluk 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

Find happiness and reignite your life!Join me and Rachel Marie Martin to discover how you can Get your Spark Back - which is the title of Rachel's new book: https://amzn.to/3YX7Xu (Amazon affiliate link)0:00 The challenges of an empty nest1:43 Adding a dog to the family3:25 Letting go when children leave home6:06 What now?9:27 Investing in yourself11:43 Fall 7 times, stand up 8!13:12 Feeling invisible18:00 Connection and friendship20:16 Confidence26:12 Get your Spark Back - the bookIf you've enjoyed this conversation, PLEASE LIKE & SUBSCRIBE.Connect with Rachel on Instagram  and Facebook.About the Midlife and Beyond Podcast.Like all transitions, midlife can be messy & sad & glorious all at once, leaving many midlife women feeling rather alone & somewhat invisible. But what does this transition we are experiencing lead to?I'm Jo Blackwell, a photographer, author and coach for women who want more from their lives post 50 and I'm here to remind you that if we manage our health and embrace it, growing older can lead to one of the greatest periods of growth and transformation of our lives.The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when we stop seeing ourselves. See my LinkTree, where you can buy my books, browse my website 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

Preparing for peri-menopause can help ameliorate symptoms, helping you to take your health into your own hands. This is what menopause expert, Dr Tayo believes and she has devised a program to help you do just that: https://getyoursassyback.com/Note: The NHS does prescribe HRT without payment.As so often happens in these conversations, we covered far more than peri-menopause symptoms, talking about women's power, the roll back of women's rights in the US and much more - join the conversation in the comments0:00 How peri-menopause feels3:32 Blue Zones5:04 Preparing for peri-menopause8:58 Prejudice, discrimination and power13:13 Will women save the world?15:41 Menopause 3.0 - what we can do to mitigate symptoms22:20 The danger of not treating womenIf you've enjoyed this conversation, PLEASE LIKE & SUBSCRIBE.About the Midlife and Beyond Podcast. Like all transitions, midlife can be messy & sad & glorious all at once, leaving many midlife women feeling rather alone & somewhat invisible. But what does this transition we are experiencing lead to?I'm Jo Blackwell, a photographer, author and coach for women who want more from their lives post 50 and I'm here to remind you that if we manage our health and embrace it, growing older can lead to one of the greatest periods of growth and transformation of our lives.The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when we stop seeing ourselves. See my LinkTree, where you can buy my books, browse my website and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources: https://linktr.ee/joblackwelluk 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

Getting your affairs in order with Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney doesn't sound exciting, but there are definitely some unexpected benefits! Join Rosie Wright of Brixworth Wills and I for this short conversation about the subjects most of us avoid.Note: although some of the terms used are UK specific, the general principles apply wherever you are. However, this is a conversation and not intended as advice - please consult a professional.Contact Rosie via her website.0:00 Is this the most boring subject for a podcast? (spoiler - no!)0:31 The dangers of putting off writing a will1:46 What is a will for? And LPAs?3:56 Broadcaster, Kate Garraway - raising awareness about Lasting Powers of attorney5.45 Busting superstition7:53 When and why to Review10:42 Rosie's professional journey If you've enjoyed this conversation, PLEASE LIKE & SUBSCRIBE. Thank you for your support!About the Midlife and Beyond Podcast.Like all transitions, midlife can be messy & sad & glorious all at once, leaving many midlife women feeling rather alone & somewhat invisible. But what does this transition we are experiencing lead to?I'm Jo Blackwell, a photographer, author and coach for women who want more from their lives post 50 and I'm here to remind you that if we manage our health and embrace it, growing older can lead to one of the greatest periods of growth and transformation of our lives. The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when we stop seeing ourselves. And see my LinkTree, where you can also 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

Join me and Geriatric Pharmacist and nutrition coach, Amy K Wilson, as we talk about the shocking truth about constant dieting, ozempic and nursing home admissions - Nursing Homes in the US are seeing younger people arriving - in some cases 50-55 years old!0:00 Seeing the outcome of poor nutrition and poor fitness4:20 The role of inflammation and over processed food7:02 the health halo and ingredients to avoid8:40 "low calorie" or "fat free"10:30 frozen and canned foods13:00 what happens when we diet?15:00 why constant dieting is dangerous16:15 The good, the bad and the ugly lowdown on ozempic19:00 Why building muscle mass is the fountain of youth21:00 Creating Balance23:40 Free safe fat loss recipesConnect with Amy: www.amykwilson.comIf you've enjoyed this conversation, PLEASE LIKE & SUBSCRIBE. Thank you for your support!About the Midlife and Beyond Podcast.Like all transitions, midlife can be messy & sad & glorious all at once, leaving many midlife women feeling rather alone & somewhat invisible. But what does this transition we are experiencing lead to?I'm Jo Blackwell, a photographer, author and coach for women who want more from their lives post 50 and I'm here to remind you that if we manage our health and embrace it, growing older can lead to one of the greatest periods of growth and transformation of our lives.The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when we stop seeing ourselves. And see my LinkTree, where you can also buy my books and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources: https://linktr.ee/joblackwelluk 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