Middle Age Management

A brutally honest, unexpectedly hilarious podcast about one family juggling kids, aging parents, and the beautiful chaos of barely holding it all together.

Microdosing Joy

🎉 Welcome back to another exciting episode of Midlife Magic! 🎉   In today's episode, we dive into the wonderful world of **microdosing joy!** 🌈 Are you ready to discover how you can sprinkle bits of happiness throughout your day and tackle the chaos of midlife? Join us for unfiltered, candid conversations about the ups and downs of this unique phase of life.    We explore the truth about the busy nature of midlife, share heartfelt gratitude for our wonderful listeners, and dissect the myth of "toxic positivity." We promise lots of laughs, relatable anecdotes, and practical tips that you can easily integrate into your daily routine. 🙌   What's in store: - The *joy of being busy* (and why it's never going to get less busy) 🤔 - How little moments of gratitude can shift your mindset and elevate your mood ☀️ - Real talk on the *"cup of joy"* theory that will make you rethink how you view life's challenges (and possibly your coffee!) ☕️ - The importance of *choosing joy* every single day, no matter what life throws your way 💪   So buckle up—this could be our best episode ever! Or, you know, just a delightful fluff of joy. You be the judge! 🥳   If you loved this episode, don't forget to hit that **follow button** and share it with someone who could use a little midlife magic in their life. 💖 Let's spread the joy together!   Thanks for tuning in, and as always, we appreciate your support! You're the best! Now go rock the rest of your day! 🎊   #MidlifeMagic #MicrodosingJoy #Gratitude #JoyfulLiving #PositiveVibes   **Follow us for more relatable parenting content:**   If You Have Aging Parents & Are In The Sandwich Generation, I Got What You Need Here: https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook   Make sure you follow for daily entertainment here @BarbaraStratte on Instagram   Find Our Go To Favorite Things for Fun, Home, Family & Aging Parents  https://www.amazon.com/shop/thrivingfamilypodcastbycalmparent   If You Enjoy Reading Here's The Blog https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/blog

12-15
24:14

Sleep, Stress, & Sandwich Life

🌟 Welcome back to another episode where we dive into the hilarious chaos of midlife! 🌟   In today's episode, we share our candid thoughts on the challenges of juggling kids, careers, and aging parents. Ever felt like you're running on fumes while trying to keep it all together? We've been there! 😅   Join us as we tackle everything from sleepless nights to chaotic calendars, all while navigating the turbulent waters of midlife exhaustion. We chat about the importance of acknowledging our struggles, giving ourselves grace, and finding humor in the little mishaps—like mistaking Vegas for a state! 🏞️   We also discuss: - How lack of sleep can derail our lives (and our brains! 😴) - Embracing the ebb and flow of life and its uncertainties. - Tips for finding balance amidst the chaos—whether it's through power naps, hydration hacks, or just shutting everything off for a moment of peace. - The power of acceptance and humor in overcoming those brain fog moments.   So sit back, relax, and let us take you on a journey of laughter, insight, and relatable stories! Don't forget to hit that subscribe button and share with someone who might need a little midlife magic in their day!💖✨   **🔔 Subscribe for more real talk!**     📘 Check out our ebook at thesandwichgen.com/ebook for practical tips on navigating the Sandwich Generation!    Let's embrace this wild ride together! 🎢   **Follow us for more relatable parenting content:**   If You Have Aging Parents & Are In The Sandwich Generation, I Got What You Need Here: https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook   Make sure you follow for daily entertainment here @BarbaraStratte on Instagram   Find Our Go To Favorite Things for Fun, Home, Family & Aging Parents  https://www.amazon.com/shop/thrivingfamilypodcastbycalmparent   If You Enjoy Reading Here's The Blog https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/blog

12-08
28:16

Surviving Family Trips

Welcome to our latest adventure where we dive into the wild journey of traveling with kids! 🌟 Join us as we explore the ups, downs, and everything in between from our recent road trip. Spoiler alert: it was a mix of chaos and joy, and we're not going to sugarcoat it!    In this video, we share our unfiltered, relatable take on family travel — the struggles, the hilarious moments, and the surprising lessons learned along the way. From questioning our sanity while navigating meltdowns to finding those precious moments of joy, we cover it all. 🤣    We'll talk about why kids are like wild animals that need to let loose, how to manage expectations (spoiler: it's a challenge), and the importance of checking in with each family member's travel desires. Whether you're contemplating your own family trip or are just here for the laughs, this episode is packed with insights that might just make you feel a little less alone on this parenting rollercoaster ride!    So grab your favorite snack, hit play, and let's navigate the messiness of family travel together! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this video with anyone who could use a little midlife magic in their life. ✨   🎥 **What You'll Learn:**   - Strategies for surviving road trips with kids - How to keep your little ones engaged and happy - Ways to manage travel stress and foster family bonding   **Follow us for more relatable parenting content:**   If You Have Aging Parents & Are In The Sandwich Generation, I Got What You Need Here: https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook   Make sure you follow for daily entertainment here @BarbaraStratte on Instagram   Find Our Go To Favorite Things for Fun, Home, Family & Aging Parents  https://www.amazon.com/shop/thrivingfamilypodcastbycalmparent   If You Enjoy Reading Here's The Blog https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/blog   Thanks for hanging out with us — now go rock the rest of your day! 🏖️

12-01
29:19

Small Talk Sucks

Welcome back, everyone! 🎉 In this episode, join Barbara and Bryan as they dive deep into the world of small talk—the necessary evil in our social lives. Whether you're an introvert dreading the next party or an extrovert struggling to keep the energy up, we've got you covered with unqualified but totally honest opinions on navigating those awkward conversations!   👀 What you can expect: - A hilarious & relatable discussion on the struggles of small talk. - Tips for both introverts and extroverts on how to engage in meaningful conversations. - Ways to turn surface-level chit-chat into connections that matter! - Fun anecdotes and a sprinkle of nostalgia with Snapple facts! 🍹 - Insightful suggestions on compliments, questions, and topics to bring to your next gathering!   Remember, everyone has depth - use your unique gifts to foster connections and make social interactions less draining. So go on a walk, fold some laundry, or grab a drink and a comfy seat, and let's tackle those small talk struggles together!   💬 Have your own small talk tips? Drop them in the comments! And if you find value in our chat, don't forget to hit that like button and share this with your friends. Let's help each other navigate the complexities of socializing, one awkward conversation at a time!   🔔 Subscribe for more episodes and get ready to embrace the magic of midlife!   If You Have Aging Parents & Are In The Sandwich Generation, I Got What You Need Here: https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook   Make sure you follow for daily entertainment here @BarbaraStratte on Instagram   Find Our Go To Favorite Things for Fun, Home, Family & Aging Parents  https://www.amazon.com/shop/thrivingfamilypodcastbycalmparent   If You Enjoy Reading Here's The Blog https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/blog   #SmallTalk #Introvert #Extrovert #MidlifeMagic #SocialSkills #AwkwardConversations #TedisBryan 

11-24
23:02

Happy Holidays???

🎉 The Holidays: A Rollercoaster of Joy and Expectations! 🎉   Join us in this heartfelt conversation where we dive deep into the ups and downs of holiday celebrations, parenthood, and the pressure to create the perfect family moments. From Thanksgiving stress to Christmas chaos, we share our unfiltered thoughts on how to navigate the emotional minefield that is this season!   🤔 Ever felt overwhelmed by family expectations? You're not alone! We discuss the wild ride of holiday traditions, the infamous Christmas card photo shoots, and the strange phenomenon of trying to keep up with the Joneses. Plus, find out how we've learned to shift our focus from perfection to meaningful connections.   🎁 What really makes the holidays special? Is it the gifts? The big dinners? Or something entirely different? We'll help you rethink your holiday "to-do" list and open the door to more chill, more fun, and genuine family bonding without the chaos!   ✨ Tune in and discover practical tips for checking in with yourself and your family, setting realistic expectations, and embracing the beautiful messiness of it all. After all, the best gifts are the moments we share together!   👉 If you love our chats, don't forget to hit that subscribe button and share this podcast with someone who could use a little holiday magic. Let's make this season about being present and enjoying the ride, together!   ✨ Happy Holidays! ✨   If You Have Aging Parents & Are In The Sandwich Generation, I Got What You Need Here: https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook   Make sure you follow for daily entertainment here @BarbaraStratte on Instagram   Find Our Go To Favorite Things for Fun, Home, Family & Aging Parents  https://www.amazon.com/shop/thrivingfamilypodcastbycalmparent   If You Enjoy Reading Here's The Blog https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/blog

11-17
41:06

Barb Had A Bad Week

🎥 Welcome to this week's episode, where we dive deep into the messy, real, and often humorous side of midlife! Join us as we navigate a week that felt a little "off"—from the struggles of parenting, to our amusing takes on life, along with some heartfelt moments reflecting on aging and Alzheimer's.    💔 We get candid about tough subjects like quality of life and the emotional weight of caring for aging parents, spiced up with our patented humor. Expect lots of laughs, some serious thought-provoking conversations, and a genuine look at the challenges of our current times, including those pesky super moons that seem to throw everything out of whack!   🐾 Plus, we share our experiences with pets and how they can mirror our feelings way too accurately (looking at you, Rufus!). Don't miss the light-hearted tales about coffee runs and how a simple high-five can make a difference in someone's day.   ✨ If you're looking for unqualified, unsolicited, but totally relatable opinions on midlife—this is the place to be! Whether you're here for the laughs or the real talk, we hope you feel a little less alone in this crazy journey.    🔔 Don't forget to hit that subscribe button and share with friends who could use a dose of midlife magic!    #MidlifeMagic #RealTalk #Aging #Alzheimers #Parenting #MentalHealth #SuperMoon #Dogs #EmotionalIntelligence #CandidConversations   If You Have Aging Parents & Are In The Sandwich Generation, I Got What You Need Here: https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook   Make sure you follow for daily entertainment here @BarbaraStratte on Instagram   Find Our Go To Favorite Things for Fun, Home, Family & Aging Parents  https://www.amazon.com/shop/thrivingfamilypodcastbycalmparent   If You Enjoy Reading Here's The Blog https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/blog

11-10
21:40

Stop Comparing

🌟 Welcome to the Midlife Management Podcast! 🌟    In this episode, we dive deep into a little monster we all know too well – *comparison syndrome*! You know that feeling when you're scrolling through social media, seeing everyone's highlight reels, and suddenly you're left feeling kinda crummy about your life? Yup, we've all been there!    Join us as we chat about the importance of gratitude, how to combat envy, and why those unfinished kitchen countertops might not be the end of the world. We're also sharing our own experiences, like how we handle our *not-so-perfect* home while still hosting gatherings because, let's be honest, life's too short to wait for the perfect moment!    💬 We'll explore: - The signs of comparison syndrome and why it affects us all. - Tips for setting your own goals and living your best authentic life. - The importance of curating your social media feed for a healthier mindset.   And stick around, because when our countertops are finally in, you KNOW we're going to flaunt them! 😂🍽️    Hit that like button, subscribe for more midlife magic, and share this with a friend who could use a little boost! Remember, you're perfect just the way you are, and it's all about celebrating your unique journey! 💪💖    👉 Follow along and join the conversation in the comments below!    #MidlifeManagement #ParisonSyndrome #Gratitude #SocialMedia #Authenticity #Goals #YouAreEnough   If You Have Aging Parents & Are In The Sandwich Generation, I Got What You Need Here: https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook   Make sure you follow for daily entertainment here @BarbaraStratte on Instagram   Find Our Go To Favorite Things for Fun, Home, Family & Aging Parents  https://www.amazon.com/shop/thrivingfamilypodcastbycalmparent   If You Enjoy Reading Here's The Blog https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/blog

11-03
28:41

Silent Drowning

The Silent Struggle No One Talks About in Midlife Relationships.   Feeling like you're carrying the whole load — home, kids, work — while your partner just... doesn't see it? You're not alone.    Welcome back to Middle Age Management, where we tackle the real, raw, and hilarious truths about midlife, marriage, and managing it all. In this episode, we're unpacking the invisible labor that keeps families running — and how it can quietly chip away at connection if we're not careful.   We're diving into:   -The unsung heroes of midlife — the ones doing it all, often without acknowledgment. -Why communication (not resentment) is the secret weapon for happier relationships. -Real-life stories about feeling disconnected, unseen, and overwhelmed — and how to rebuild closeness. - Honest, funny banter about the mental load of modern life — from forgotten grocery lists to emotional burnout. -If you've ever found yourself thinking, "Why do I have to ask for help?", this one's for you.   📚 Feeling stretched thin between your partner, kids, and aging parents? Grab my eBook → https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook (https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook)   👊 Hit LIKE if this hit home, COMMENT with your biggest takeaway, and SUBSCRIBE for more honest midlife conversations about marriage, parenting, and finding joy in the juggle. ✨   Tune in and let's tackle this journey together!   **Follow us for more hilarious insights and relatable moments!**   If You Have Aging Parents & Are In The Sandwich Generation, I Got What You Need Here: https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook   Make sure you follow for daily entertainment here @BarbaraStratte on Instagram   Find Our Go To Favorite Things for Fun, Home, Family & Aging Parents  https://www.amazon.com/shop/thrivingfamilypodcastbycalmparent   If You Enjoy Reading Here's The Blog https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/blog

10-27
32:06

Skurfawful

Kids Fighting? Friendships Falling Apart? Let's Talk About It. Ever had your kid in a friendship "skurfawful"? 😬 One minute they're besties, the next they're arch-enemies — and suddenly, you're caught in the middle of mom-friend drama you never signed up for.   Welcome back to Middle Age Management, the podcast where we tackle the real-life chaos of midlife, marriage, and raising kids — with honesty, humor, and zero sugarcoating.   In today's episode, we're diving deep into:   💬 How to handle parenting friendships gone wrong 💪 Why it's okay for your kids to fail and learn from their own mess-ups ❤️ How to navigate adult friendships when your kids can't stand each other 🙌 Tips for communicating with other parents — without the finger-pointing   If you're a midlife parent, part of the sandwich generation, or just trying to keep your cool through the chaos — this episode is your reminder: you're not alone.   📚 Need help balancing your aging parents, kids, and yourself? Grab my eBook with practical tips and scripts → https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook (https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook)   **Follow us for more hilarious insights and relatable moments!**   If You Have Aging Parents & Are In The Sandwich Generation, I Got What You Need Here: https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook   Make sure you follow for daily entertainment here @BarbaraStratte on Instagram   Find Our Go To Favorite Things for Fun, Home, Family & Aging Parents  https://www.amazon.com/shop/thrivingfamilypodcastbycalmparent   If You Enjoy Reading Here's The Blog https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/blog

10-20
31:08

Advocate With A Smile

🌟 Welcome to Episode 20 of our podcast! 🎉 Today, we're diving deep into the art of advocacy—specifically, how to stand up for yourself in all areas of life. From health to career, and the lessons we hope to instill in our kids, we're sharing personal stories, valuable insights, and a few laughs along the way!   We start off by celebrating our 20th episode milestone and reflect on the amazing connections we've made, including a heartwarming encounter with a football coach who listens to our podcast! 💖    Join us as we chat about advocating for yourself, sharing stories from our own lives—like the time I leveraged my awkward resume into a successful sales job! 😄 It's all about challenging the status quo, believing in yourself, and finding the balance between being assertive and respectful.   Listen in as we recount teachable moments with our kids, encouraging them to voice their truths, whether it's in sports or school, and share techniques for navigating tricky conversations. Trust us, these skills are vital, especially in today's world!   If you're striving for more joy and authenticity in your midlife journey, you won't want to miss this episode. Hit that play button, and let's make advocacy a part of your everyday life!    🔔 Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with anyone who could use some encouragement to find their voice. Let's spread the midlife magic together! ✨    #Advocacy #MidlifeMagic #SelfEmpowerment #Podcast #PersonalGrowth #SelfAdvocacy   💬 **Join the Conversation:** Have you faced similar challenges with aging parents? Share your experiences in the comments—we'd love to hear from you!   🔔 **Subscribe for More:** If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and ring the bell for notifications about our latest content!   ✨ Thanks for tuning in, and remember: tomorrow is a new day!   **Follow us for more hilarious insights and relatable moments!**   If You Have Aging Parents & Are In The Sandwich Generation, I Got What You Need Here: https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook   Make sure you follow for daily entertainment here @BarbaraStratte on Instagram   Find Our Go To Favorite Things for Fun, Home, Family & Aging Parents  https://www.amazon.com/shop/thrivingfamilypodcastbycalmparent   If You Enjoy Reading Here's The Blog https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/blog

10-13
22:53

Money Mindset

Let's talk about the thing nobody wants to talk about: money. Not the fancy Instagram version, but the real, messy, midlife truth. Why do we have plywood countertops? Because that's what we can afford right now—and guess what? That's not failure, that's life. It's not about the counters. It's about the mindset. In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on money taboos, financial stress in relationships, and the weird ways childhood shapes how we handle (or avoid) wealth. Our friend Dan said it best: just because it feels precarious doesn't mean you'll fall through. ✨ Inside, we'll dig into:   The #1 reason money stress can wreck relationships (and how to stop it). Why investing in yourself beats spending on stuff. Simple mindset shifts that turn fear into freedom. A creative exercise to uncover how you really feel about money.   What wealth actually means—and why it has way more to do with self-worth than your bank account. If you've ever felt shame around money, fought with your partner about it, or worried you're skating on thin ice—you are not alone. This episode will leave you with hope, clarity, and a whole new perspective on what it means to feel secure. 👉 Hit play, laugh with us, maybe squirm a little, and walk away ready to see money in a brand-new light. #MoneyMindset #MidlifeMagic #FinancialFreedom #MoneyTalks #LifeLessons   💬 **Join the Conversation:** Have you faced similar challenges with aging parents? Share your experiences in the comments—we'd love to hear from you!   🔔 **Subscribe for More:** If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and ring the bell for notifications about our latest content!   ✨ Thanks for tuning in, and remember: tomorrow is a new day!   **Follow us for more hilarious insights and relatable moments!**   If You Have Aging Parents & Are In The Sandwich Generation, I Got What You Need Here: https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook   Make sure you follow for daily entertainment here @BarbaraStratte on Instagram   Find Our Go To Favorite Things for Fun, Home, Family & Aging Parents  https://www.amazon.com/shop/thrivingfamilypodcastbycalmparent   If You Enjoy Reading Here's The Blog https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/blog

10-06
31:20

Magic & A Little Woo

Welcome to another episode where we dive into the sometimes bizarre yet totally relatable world of midlife musings! 🌊✨    In this video, we're serving up some unfiltered thoughts on finding joy in unexpected places—yes, including whale sperm (just stick with us!). We're here to be your emotional cheerleaders, talking about the quirky tools and practices that have been making our days brighter. From gratitude exercises to the magic of being mindful, we're shaking things up and letting you in on some "woo" that might just change your perspective.   Expect laughs, light-hearted banter, and a sprinkle of punk-rock spirit as we discuss the beauty of being consistent (or "mitted," as we like to say) in our self-care routines. Plus, we share a little magic dust on how acknowledging the good in life—big or small—can turn your day around.    Remember, whatever you call it, if it works, it works! Whether it's a new wellness trend or an unexpected practice, we're committed to finding the tools that help us thrive in this wild ride called midlife.    Join us on this journey of gratitude, humor, and emotional intelligence, and share your own experiences in the comments! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with a friend who could use a dose of midlife magic. 🌈💖    ✨ Let's rock this together! ✨    #MidlifeMusings #Gratitude #WooIsCool #EmotionalIntelligence   💬 **Join the Conversation:** Have you faced similar challenges with aging parents? Share your experiences in the comments—we'd love to hear from you!   🔔 **Subscribe for More:** If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and ring the bell for notifications about our latest content!   ✨ Thanks for tuning in, and remember: tomorrow is a new day!   **Follow us for more hilarious insights and relatable moments!**   If You Have Aging Parents & Are In The Sandwich Generation, I Got What You Need Here: https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook   Make sure you follow for daily entertainment here @BarbaraStratte on Instagram   Find Our Go To Favorite Things for Fun, Home, Family & Aging Parents  https://www.amazon.com/shop/thrivingfamilypodcastbycalmparent   If You Enjoy Reading Here's The Blog https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/blog

09-29
28:05

Parenting Your Parents

Ever feel like you're parenting your kids and your parents at the same time? Welcome to the Sandwich Generation—where bedtime routines, snack negotiations, and epic eye-rolls happen on both ends of the family tree.   In this candid episode, we pull back the curtain on the hilarity and heartbreak of midlife caregiving:   The laugh-out-loud chaos of dropping Mom off at her respite class.   The emotional rollercoaster of dealing with parents' behaviors that feel way too familiar.   The eternal mealtime mystery: how do you convince an elderly parent to eat something besides toast?   Raw, relatable talk about why it's normal (and okay!) to feel frustrated.   You'll laugh, you might cry, and you'll definitely feel less alone in this wild season of life. Plus, we share simple, real-world strategies for keeping your own sanity intact—because self-care isn't selfish, it's survival.   So grab a cookie, settle in, and join us as we navigate parenting our parents with humor, honesty, and a whole lot of love.   💬 **Join the Conversation:** Have you faced similar challenges with aging parents? Share your experiences in the comments—we'd love to hear from you!   🔔 **Subscribe for More:** If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe and ring the bell for notifications about our latest content!   ✨ Thanks for tuning in, and remember: tomorrow is a new day!   **Follow us for more hilarious insights and relatable moments!**   If You Have Aging Parents & Are In The Sandwich Generation, I Got What You Need Here: https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook   Make sure you follow for daily entertainment here @BarbaraStratte on Instagram   Find Our Go To Favorite Things for Fun, Home, Family & Aging Parents  https://www.amazon.com/shop/thrivingfamilypodcastbycalmparent   If You Enjoy Reading Here's The Blog https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/blog

09-22
27:51

Dead Cat & Date Nights

Departed cat (RIP Clyde), and me somehow becoming the cat smuggler. Yep, midlife is wild.   But in between the absurdity, we dig into something real—the importance of finding time to reconnect with your partner when you're smack in the middle of caregiving, parenting, and managing everyday life.   💡 What you'll laugh (and maybe cry) through in this episode:   The hilariously awkward story of Clyde, my mom's late cat, and how he became part of my midlife memoir.   Why uninterrupted one-on-one time with your partner isn't just "nice"—it's survival fuel.   Offbeat, budget-friendly date ideas for when dinner-and-a-movie feels impossible.   A refreshingly real take on juggling love, loss, and laughter in the Sandwich Generation.   It's funny, a little unfiltered, and totally relatable—because if midlife has taught us anything, it's that sometimes you just have to laugh at the madness.   Thanks for joining our journey! Let's keep the conversation going and bring a little bit of midlife magic into everyday life. ✨   **Follow us for more hilarious insights and relatable moments!**   If You Have Aging Parents & Are In The Sandwich Generation, I Got What You Need Here: https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook   Make sure you follow for daily entertainment here @BarbaraStratte on Instagram   Find Our Go To Favorite Things for Fun, Home, Family & Aging Parents  https://www.amazon.com/shop/thrivingfamilypodcastbycalmparent   If You Enjoy Reading Here's The Blog https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/blog   #MidlifeWomen #MidlifePodcast #SandwichGeneration #ParentingTeens #AgingParents #MidlifeReset #MentalHealthAwareness #PositiveThinking #AgingGracefully #Midlife #Relationships #SandwichGeneration #CouplesTalk #Connection #Parenting #LifeBalance #CandidConversations

09-15
29:16

Burn Baby Burn

🔥🚲 Welcome to the wildest family trip we've ever taken—Burning Man! 🚲🔥   Yes, we packed up our 11, 13, and 15-year-olds and headed straight into the desert with 80,000 people, art cars, fire displays, and more neon than Vegas on steroids. Crazy? Maybe. Worth it? 1000%.   In this episode, we share the raw, unfiltered truth of what it's like to take your kids to one of the most misunderstood (and magical) events on the planet. From sunrise bike rides across the Playa to late-night art shows that felt straight out of another universe, we'll tell you the highs, the lows, and the "did that just happen?!" moments that made this an unforgettable family adventure.   💡 Why did we go? What did our kids think? And what does Burning Man actually teach you about parenting, connection, and choosing joy in midlife? Spoiler: a LOT more than you'd think.   If you've ever been curious about Burning Man—or just want to know what happens when a suburban family swaps soccer games for dust storms—this one's for you. Expect laughter, real talk, and a few core-memory moments we'll never forget.   👉 Hit play now, then tell us: would YOU ever take your family to Burning Man?   ✨ Midlife isn't boring—it's technicolor. And sometimes, it's covered in dust. ✨   #BurningMan #FamilyAdventure #ParentingInMidlife #CoreMemories #MidlifeMagic     **Follow us for more hilarious insights and relatable moments!**   If You Have Aging Parents & Are In The Sandwich Generation, I Got What You Need Here: https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook   Make sure you follow for daily entertainment here @BarbaraStratte on Instagram   Find Our Go To Favorite Things for Fun, Home, Family & Aging Parents  https://www.amazon.com/shop/thrivingfamilypodcastbycalmparent   If You Enjoy Reading Here's The Blog https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/blog   #MidlifeWomen #MidlifePodcast #SandwichGeneration #ParentingTeens #AgingParents #MidlifeReset #MentalHealthAwareness #PositiveThinking #AgingGracefully

09-08
33:21

Boob Scare To Self-Care

Welcome to another Middle Age Management episode where we dive deep into the realities of midlife health, friendship, and self-acceptance! 🌟 Join us as we recount my journey through a recent health scare, the emotional rollercoaster of surgery, and the importance of leaning on loved ones during tough times.    We'll share thoughts on everything from feeling vulnerable in a hospital gown (seriously, why do they always put you in that?) to the unexpected warmth of IVs and how we can all learn to be better at receiving support from those around us.   We'll also explore the psychological side of midlife changes and how embracing who we are can be a true gift. Plus, we give a big shoutout to the friends who rally behind you—because community matters!   Whether you're navigating parenthood, aging parents, or your own health journey, this episode is filled with candid, unfiltered conversations that remind us that we are not alone.    So, go on a weighted vest walk, grab a cozy drink, settle in, and let's chat it out. And don't forget to **LIKE**, **SUBSCRIBE**, and **SHARE** this episode with anyone who could use a sprinkle of midlife magic! 💖✨   👇 **Check out more about my eBook for tips on managing the Sandwich Generation:** www.TheSandwichedGen.com/ebook   See you on the other side! ✨       **Follow us for more hilarious insights and relatable moments!**   If You Have Aging Parents & Are In The Sandwich Generation, I Got What You Need Here: https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook   Make sure you follow for daily entertainment here @BarbaraStratte on Instagram   Find Our Go To Favorite Things for Fun, Home, Family & Aging Parents  https://www.amazon.com/shop/thrivingfamilypodcastbycalmparent   If You Enjoy Reading Here's The Blog https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/blog   #MidlifeWomen #MidlifePodcast #SandwichGeneration #ParentingTeens #AgingParents #MidlifeReset #MentalHealthAwareness #PositiveThinking #AgingGracefully

09-01
25:37

From Burnout To All Out

Welcome to your midlife reset! 🌟 If you're over 40 juggling kids, aging parents, career shifts, and your own body's changes—you are not alone (and you're in the right place).   💬 In this episode, we talk honestly about midlife burnout, anxiety, and overwhelm—but also about laughter, gratitude, and the surprising freedom this season of life can bring. Whether you're sending kids off to college, caring for your parents, or just trying to find yourself again, this is your reminder: you're stronger than you think.   ✨ Midlife isn't the beginning of the end—it's the power decade where wisdom meets courage, and chaos becomes clarity. We'll help you see how, three years from now, you'll look back and realize how good today really was.   ❤️ So grab your coffee (or your weighted vest), hit subscribe, and join us as we turn stress into strength, burnout into balance, and ordinary days into moments worth celebrating. Because together? We're redefining what it means to age well, live fully, and thrive in midlife.   👉 Don't forget to share this with your midlife besties—because this stage is better when we do it together.   **Follow us for more hilarious insights and relatable moments!**   If You Have Aging Parents & Are In The Sandwich Generation, I Got What You Need Here: https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook   Make sure you follow for daily entertainment here @BarbaraStratte on Instagram   Find Our Go To Favorite Things for Fun, Home, Family & Aging Parents  https://www.amazon.com/shop/thrivingfamilypodcastbycalmparent   If You Enjoy Reading Here's The Blog https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/blog   #MidlifeWomen #MidlifePodcast #SandwichGeneration #ParentingTeens #AgingParents #MidlifeReset #MentalHealthAwareness #PositiveThinking #AgingGracefully

08-25
26:48

Midlife Health... Is This Normal?

This episode is for every woman who's ever walked into a room and forgotten why—twice. Let's get one thing straight: Midlife health isn't a spa day. It's a full-contact sport. And in this episode, we're getting real about what it means to live in a body that's suddenly doing weird things without warning: • Sciatic pain that shows up uninvited and refuses to leave • Hormones that feel like they're playing dodgeball with your sanity • Mammograms, MRIs, and that moment you Google something at 3 am and spiral hard • How to advocate for yourself when the system shrugs and says, "Welcome to getting older"   And yes—we're laughing the whole way through. Because if you don't laugh? You cry in the Walgreens vitamin aisle.   This episode is your reminder that: • You're not lazy. You're exhausted from holding everything together. • You're not broken. Your body's just asking you to finally listen. • You don't need to EARN rest, validation, or a break from carrying the mental load of your entire household.   We're pulling back the curtain on all the messy, magical, midlife stuff—without pretending we have it all figured out. Because guess what? No one does.   Tune in if: • You've ever cried over back pain and laughed about it 5 minutes later • You need a friend to say, "Me too," about the things no one talks about • You want to feel seen, heard, and reminded that you're not going through this alone   So go ahead—grab your coffee,  your weighted vest, or whatever makes you feel slightly less unhinged—and hit play.   And hey, if this episode makes you feel even a little less alone in this season? Send it to your friends. The one who's also quietly panicking over hot flashes, brain fog, and that weird noise her hip just made.   **Follow us for more hilarious insights and relatable moments!**   If You Have Aging Parents & Are In The Sandwich Generation, I Got What You Need Here: https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook   Make sure you follow for daily entertainment here @BarbaraStratte on Instagram   Find Our Go To Favorite Things for Fun, Home, Family & Aging Parents  https://www.amazon.com/shop/thrivingfamilypodcastbycalmparent   If You Enjoy Reading Here's The Blog https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/blog   #MidlifeUnfiltered #RealTalkAfter40 #PoopAndPower #HormonesAndHumor #YouAreNotAlone #CaregiverLife #MiddleAgeMagic #SandwichGenerationSupport

08-18
25:33

Sideline Hero: The Real MVP

Raising Athletes, Losing Our Minds, and Why Sports Moms Deserve Medals If you've ever packed a cooler at 6 a.m., screamed from the sidelines, or quietly questioned why this game matters so much—you're in the right place. This episode is what every sports parent needs to hear. Because let's be honest: youth sports? It's not just a hobby—it's a full-time job with zero pay, high emotional stakes, and way too many snack duties.   In this episode, we get real about: • Why youth sports culture is so intense • The pressure we feel as parents to "get it right" • How to keep your own identity while raising a kid who's chasing goals • What sports actually teach our kids—and what they teach us • Why gratitude, grit, and growth matter more than any trophy   Here's the truth: You don't need to have it all figured out. You just need to show up with heart and boundaries.   This is the pep talk you didn't know you needed—and the permission slip to stop trying to be everything to everyone.   This episode is for: • The mom who's burnt out, stretched thin, and wondering if it's okay to not care this much • The woman who loves her kids but misses herself • Anyone who's ever sat in the car after a game and thought: "What are we even doing?"   This isn't just about sports. It's about who you are when the whistle blows and life keeps coming.   **Follow us for more hilarious insights and relatable moments!**   If You Have Aging Parents & Are In The Sandwich Generation, I Got What You Need Here: https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook   Make sure you follow for daily entertainment here @BarbaraStratte on Instagram   Find Our Go To Favorite Things for Fun, Home, Family & Aging Parents  https://www.amazon.com/shop/thrivingfamilypodcastbycalmparent   If You Enjoy Reading Here's The Blog https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/blog   #MidlifeMom #YouthSports #RaisingAthletes #BurnoutIsReal #SportsMoms #SidelineHero #ParentingUnfiltered #MiddleAgeManagement

08-11
29:33

What Death Teaches Us About Life

Let's talk about the thing no one wants to talk about—but everyone feels: grief. In this episode of Middle Age Management, we're getting real about what it means to lose people (and pets) we love—and what they teach us about living fully while we're still here. From the quiet impact of our beloved family cat Bonnie to the larger-than-life legacy of a family friend, Keith, this episode is packed with powerful reflections, unexpected laughter, and soul-stirring moments. Whether you're dealing with the loss of a parent, caring for aging loved ones, or simply feeling the emotional weight of midlife, this conversation is here to remind you: you're not alone—and your feelings are valid. We're diving into:  • The emotional rollercoaster of caregiving and loss   • Why death forces us to re-evaluate what really matters  • How to find meaning, humor, and hope—even in grief  • And why the Sandwich Generation is rewriting what midlife looks like This is more than just a podcast episode—it's a love letter to the lessons we carry from those who came before us. Hit play. Feel seen. Share it with someone who needs it. 
Because when we talk about death, we actually start living. 👉 Subscribe now to Middle Age Management—where real life, real love, and real messes meet. #midlifepodcast #griefjourney #sandwichgeneration #agingparents #caregiverlife #midlifewisdom #melrobbinsstyle #deathandlife #legacyandlove #middleagemagic **Follow us for more hilarious insights and relatable moments!** If You Have Aging Parents & Are In The Sandwich Generation, I Got What You Need Here: https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/ebook Make sure you follow for daily entertainment here @BarbaraStratte on Instagram Find Our Go To Favorite Things for Fun, Home, Family & Aging Parents  https://www.amazon.com/shop/thrivingfamilypodcastbycalmparent If You Enjoy Reading Here's The Blog https://www.thesandwichedgen.com/blog

08-04
23:20

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