The Big Four Oh: The Podcast About Turning 40

Stephanie McLaughlin
The Big Four Oh: The Podcast About Turning 40

Sometime around age 40 (+/-) you might start feeling like some part of your life no longer fits and you don't know what to do about it. It could be at work or at home - or simply inside of you. You might be asking questions like, "How did I get here?" Or, "Is this all there is?" "Is this what I've been working so hard for?" Or, "Why aren't I happier?" Growing out of her own experience turning 40, Stephanie McLaughlin became captivated by the big “four oh,” and how people handle the milestone birthday. On The Big Four Oh Podcast, Stephanie has conversations with people about their life experience around turning 40. This birthday often comes wrapped in larger life changes, whether it’s a newfound search for meaning, accepting your mortality, or shedding all those things you did because some external authority said you “should.” Her mission is to make it common cultural knowledge that there IS a transition most of us face around age 40, and then showcase so many versions of that transition that every single person approaching, or recently turned, 40 with dread in their heart, knows that they are not alone. I know you don't want to call it a midlife crisis, so I won't, but "if the glove fits, you must acquit." 😉

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    Turning 40 and Rewiring the Mind

    In this episode, Stephanie talks to Marcy Langlois, who shares her extraordinary story of resilience and recovery. Born with a cleft lip and palate requiring multiple surgeries, Marcy grew up in a chaotic household and struggled with addiction following a life-altering car accident. Her story explores the impact of trauma on physical health, including her struggles with mast cell activation syndrome and chronic infections. Marcy explains how she transformed her life through neuroplasticity and nervous system work, ultimately achieving a state of health and vitality. Her journey highlights the intertwining of mental, emotional, and physical healing and the continuous effort required to maintain wellness. Guest Bio Marcy Langlois is a trauma survivor and chronic illness warrior, 20+ years into her sobriety journey. She shares tips and tools accumulated from a lifetime of work to help others live beyond their limits through her coaching practice, social media posts and some freebies on her website. Online classes are coming soon! Turning 40 and Rewiring the MindIn this episode, Stephanie sits down with Marcy Langlois to explore her story of survival, transformation, and healing. After a childhood marked by medical challenges, family instability, and a battle with addiction, she found sobriety—only to face a new and terrifying crisis in her mid-40s when her body began to shut down. Diagnosed with mast cell activation syndrome and histamine intolerance, Marcy was bedridden for 40 days, grappling with allergic reactions to everything in her environment—including her own thoughts. But through deep inner work, rewiring her brain, and healing her nervous system, she emerged healthier and stronger than ever. Episode Highlights: A childhood shaped by medical challenges – Born with a cleft lip and palate, Marcy endured 20 surgeries between birth and age 18, and a difficult upbringing in a home affected by addiction and instability.The impact of unprocessed trauma – How childhood survival mechanisms carried into adulthood, leading to addiction and self-destructive patterns.The breaking point – At 45, Marcy’s body rebelled, leaving her unable to function and suffering from life-threatening reactions to food, stress, and even her own thoughts.Rewiring the brain for healing – Marcy shares how she used neuroplasticity and what she calls the "cancel method" to retrain her mind and shift her body's response to stress.The power of nervous system regulation – Understanding the difference between fight-flight-freeze and rest-digest-heal, and how true healing can’t happen until the body feels safe.Energy and frequency in healing – Why raising the body's energetic vibration was a crucial final step in Marcy’s recovery.Life after transformation – How Marcy is now thriving, free of chronic illness, and living with vitality and purpose. Marcy’s story is a testament to the incredible resilience of the human body and spirit. Her journey from a lifetime of trauma and illness to vibrant health is inspiring proof that healing is possible, even when all seems lost. Tune in to hear how she transformed her life—and take away powerful lessons on the mind-body connection. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to rate, follow, and review the podcast—it helps us reach more listeners on their own journeys of transformation! Guest ResourcesConnect with Marcy on Facebook  Connect with Marcy on Instagram  Connect with Marcy on TikTok a href="https://courses.marcylanglois.com/1-on-1-vip-mentorship"

    57 min
  2. 4 FEB

    Turning 40 and Unraveling Codependency

    In this episode of The Big Four Oh Podcast, Stephanie talks to Emily Hall, who shares her remarkable journey through tumultuous life experiences, including a toxic childhood, substance abuse, near-death experiences, and codependent relationships. Emily opens up about her emotional breakdown on her 40th birthday and the pivotal moment she realized she needed to change her life. Through intense self-work, therapy, and a transformational shift in mindset, she managed to build a fulfilling life, focusing on her passions and helping others with binge eating disorders. Her candid recounting of her struggle and triumphs offers invaluable insights into the power of self-love and resilience. Guest Bio Would you choose chocolate over your eyesight? It’s a hard no, right? So, why was Emily Hall’s answer a ‘Yes’? After losing the sight permanently in her left eye as a result of her binge eating (yes, chocolate came first) and several other significant events including surviving a suicide attempt, Emily decided that enough was enough and went on a quest for happiness and self-acceptance. Ditching the traditional ways of self-healing Emily began to realise that only she could change the self-sabotaging patterns that were holding her back. Now an award-winning hypnotherapist and coach, Emily works with women around the world to help stop them binge eating, overeating and emotional eating just by changing how they think. She has unrivalled success in her field, getting her clients food freedom for good and loving themselves naked (!) in just a matter of weeks. Emily has been featured on the BBC, GB News, The Sun, The Daily Mail, The Mirror, The Express, Yahoo and MSN to name a few, talking about this subject. Her aim is to eliminate the stigma of overeating, emotional eating and weight issues and help educate people that diets are not the answer, and that it’s not even about food. Turning 40 and Unraveling CodependencyEmily Hall's 40th birthday wasn’t the celebration she imagined—it was a breaking point. Years of trauma, toxic relationships, and personal struggles finally brought her to tears. But instead of staying broken, Emily embarked on a journey of self-discovery, confronting her deepest fears and limiting beliefs. From near-death experiences and a crushing heartbreak to a triumphant reinvention, Emily now helps others heal from disordered eating and internal battles. Join us as she shares the raw and emotional story behind her incredible transformation. Episode Highlights Emily's traumatic childhood led to years of self-destructive behavior.A toxic relationship and unmet life expectations triggered her 40th birthday breakdown.She endured near-death experiences, which shaped but didn't define her transformation.Codependency and low self-worth influenced many of her relationships.When her life imploded, Emily reached a crossroads with only three options—one of which saved her life.Her healing process included retraining her internal dialogue, engaging with forward-thinking coaches, and cutting out toxic influences.Emily has since built a successful business helping women overcome disordered eating by addressing deep-seated self-beliefs. Emily’s story is a powerful reminder that life’s toughest challenges can be the catalyst for incredible growth. Through deep inner work and self-compassion, she has found peace, success, and a new purpose. If you’ve ever felt stuck in negative patterns, Emily’s experience might offer the insight and inspiration you need to move forward. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and review the podcast! It helps us reach more listeners on their paths of transformation. Guest ResourcesJoin Emily’s Beat the Binge Online Course a...

    45 min
  3. 23 JAN

    Turning 40 and Weathering the Storms of Loss

    Today, Philip Blackett reflects on his upbringing in the South, growing up with a single mother, and the pivotal roles his grandparents played in shaping his values. As he navigates midlife, Philip reveals how his faith has become his core anchor following the deaths of his grandparents. He shares the challenges of running a business that closed during the pandemic and how this impacted his identity. The conversation explores the complexities of being a recovering people-pleaser, the lessons learned from his failures, and the quest for deeper connections. Philip emphasizes the role of faith, perseverance, and perspective in overcoming obstacles and building a meaningful life. Guest Bio Philip Blackett is an author, consultant and entrepreneur who previously has worked with FedEx, Goldman Sachs, Bank of America and Chick-Fil-A. He got his Masters of Divinity degree from The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, his MBA from Harvard Business School and his Bachelor’s Degree majoring in Political Science and Economics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Turning 40 and Weathering the Storms of LossIn this episode, Philip Blackett joins Stephanie to share his journey through midlife transformation as he approaches his 40th birthday. With candor and vulnerability, Philip reflects on how his upbringing, faith, and personal losses have shaped his values and priorities. From grappling with the identity challenges of closing a business to finding strength in his faith and family, Philip's story is a reminder of the resilience and courage it takes to embrace life’s transitions. Episode Highlights: The Power of Legacy: Philip's reflections on wanting to be a present and protective father and husband, drawing inspiration from his grandfather's example.Faith as a Lifelong Anchor: How losing loved ones led Philip to shift his sense of self-worth from external validation to a deep reliance on faith.Navigating Major Transitions: The emotional and practical challenges of closing a business during the pandemic and relocating his family to start anew.Embracing Vulnerability: How sharing failures and struggles can create deeper, more meaningful connections with others.Lessons in Resilience: Understanding that life’s detours, setbacks, and endings are part of a greater process leading to growth and renewal.The Middle Space: Stephanie and Philip discuss the "gray area" of transitions—navigating life between endings and new beginnings.Bravery in Connection: Why building trust and relationships requires courage and perseverance, even after setbacks. Resources Mentioned: Books: Transitions by William Bridges Today, Philip Blackett opens up about the highs and lows of navigating midlife. From the emotional toll of business closure to finding a renewed sense of purpose through his faith, Philip’s reflections are both grounding and inspiring. His story encourages listeners to embrace life’s transitions, lean on their inner strength, and focus on the legacy they want to leave behind. Whether you’re in the middle of your own “gray space” or simply seeking motivation, this episode is full of wisdom and hope. Guest ResourcesConnect with Philip on Facebook Connect with Philip on Instagram  Connect with Philip on TikTok  Do you have the Midlife Ick? Download Stephanie’s guide to the Ick...

    52 min
  4. 16 JAN

    Announcement: Forty Drinks is now The Big Four Oh

    After 115 episodes, Forty Drinks is relaunching as The Big Four Oh: The Podcast About Turning 40. The podcast maintains the same mission and focus, but will move forward under a new name with the goal of reaching a wider audience with the message of transition at midlife.  This podcast is about transitions, and specifically the ones that we go through sometime around age 40, those internal shifts that we make, where we start to see and interact with the world differently.  I will continue to bring you stories of transition, of transformation, of stepping into power and wisdom and purpose and fulfillment.  I will continue to discern the commonalities among these individual transitions.  I will continue to develop a framework for identifying when you've entered your transitional phase and how to make your way through it without making as much of a mess of it as I did.  And I will work to uncover the keys to doing just that. Welcome to The Big Four Oh.  Guest Bio Stephanie McLaughlin is a marketer and podcaster who is captivated about the transition many of us go through around age 40. Stephanie celebrated her 40th birthday by having 40 drinks with 40 people in 40 different places. Each drink had some thematic connection to her friend or their relationship. What began as a ridiculous way to celebrate the milestone birthday ultimately revealed itself as a powerful, soul-searching journey that changed her life profoundly. This was the dawn of her interest in the shift so Announcement: Forty Drinks is now The Big Four OhGuest ResourcesThe Big Four Oh website The Big Four Oh on Instagram The Big Four Oh on Facebook Listen, Rate & SubscribeYouTube Podcasts Apple Podcasts  Spotify Amazon Podcasts SponsorThe Big Four Oh Podcast is produced and presented by Savoir Faire Marketing/Communications

    19 min
  5. 19/12/2024

    Turning 40 and Realizing I Am the Boss of Me

    In this episode, Stephanie talks to Marc Scheff about the midlife transitions experienced around the age of 40. They discuss Mark’s journey, including incidents that led him to take up jiu jitsu, his shifting dreams, and his struggles with toxic work environments. The conversation highlights the importance of introspection, updating old dreams, listening to inner voices, and having the courage to start anew. They also explore the challenges of people-pleasing, resistance to change, and the process of finding joy and fulfillment in midlife. Guest Bio Marc Scheff is a visionary coach dedicated to guiding mid-life professionals on a profound inner journey. With his expertise, individuals break through barriers, transcending self-limiting beliefs to unlock the full spectrum of their capabilities. Marc's transformative coaching goes beyond the visual arts, resonating with a diverse array of creative minds, empowering them to architect their own narrative and flourish in their professional endeavors. He has won awards for his painting, photography, and coaching and can be found at https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcscheff/ Turning 40 and Realizing I Am the Boss of MeMarc Scheff joins Stephanie to share his midlife transformation, a journey that includes personal growth, family grounding, and unexpected turns like picking up Jiu-Jitsu at age 41. Marc’s story dives deep into the cyclical nature of life, the power of self-awareness, and the unexpected ways our paths reveal themselves when we’re open to change. At 35, Marc noticed small shifts—hangovers with just one drink, a desire for deeper meaning, and growing roots in New York with his wife and child. By midlife, he faced challenges that forced him to reimagine his career, joy, and purpose. From running an arts retreat to coaching others through transformation, Marc’s journey highlights the importance of listening to intuition, trying new things, and honoring evolving dreams. Highlights: Marc’s insight into life as a series of 7-year cycles of growth and change.The pivotal shift at 35: the emergence of roots, responsibility, and self-reflection.His journey from professional art to founding an arts retreat center—and how it unexpectedly fell apart.How Jiu-Jitsu at 41 taught Marc to leave his ego at the door and embrace starting as a beginner.The “formula for change”: dissatisfaction, vision, and small first steps.The realization that evolving dreams are just as valid as old ones.Marc’s transition to a career in coaching, helping others design and activate their next chapter. Marc’s transformation demonstrates the power of midlife reflection. From his days as an artist to embracing coaching, Marc learned that evolving goals and dreams are not failures—they’re part of the journey. His story shows that midlife offers a chance to reorient, reflect, and reignite our purpose. Tune in for a conversation about resilience, self-discovery, and the courage to start anew, whether it’s a new hobby, career, or way of thinking. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and review the podcast to support us and hear more inspiring midlife transformations! Guest ResourcesMarc’s Unleash Creativity Club Connect with Marc on Facebook  Connect with Marc on Instagram Do you have the Midlife Ick? Download Stephanie’s guide to the Ick to diagnose whether you...

    1h 1m
  6. 12/12/2024

    Turning 40 and Finding Purpose in Poetry After Loss

    Gabby Gilliam shares her experience of navigating through multiple losses, career transitions, moves, and personal growth from her early 30s to her early 40s. She talks about her late start in becoming a parent, the numerous moves her family made, and the struggles she encountered in finding a job after relocating. Gabby delves into the profound impact of her father's rapid decline and passing, followed by the subsequent losses of other close family members within a short span. Despite these challenges, Gabby finds solace in her writing, support from her sisters, and the drive to show her son resilience. She also discusses the perspective shifts that these experiences brought into her life, emphasizing the importance of focusing on joy over adhering to societal 'shoulds.' Guest Bio Gabby Gilliam is a writer, a teacher, and a mom. She lives in the DC metro area with her husband and son. She is a founding member of the Old Scratch Short Form Collective. Her first chapbook, No Ocean Spit Me Out, was released in June 2024 from Old Scratch Press. Her novella duology, Drumming for the Dead: Trouble in Tomsk and Drumming for the Dead: Chasing a Cure were released from Black Hare Press. Her poetry and fiction has appeared online and in multiple anthologies. Turning 40 and Finding Purpose in Poetry After LossGabby Gilliam talks about how she navigated a whirlwind of grief, including the loss of her father and several other loved ones in a short time, and rediscovering her identity through writing and teaching. Gabby’s story reminds us of the strength we can find amidst profound challenges. She opens up about her 40s arriving with unexpected hardships but also with clarity and purpose, reshaping how she approaches life, work, and joy. Episode Highlights: Gabby's early 30s were shaped by frequent moves, career shifts, and adjusting to motherhood.The profound impact of losing her father and how it marked her 40th birthday.Coping with compounded losses in a short time, including family members and close friends.Writing as a lifeline: Gabby’s use of poetry and storytelling to process grief and find healing.How loss shifted Gabby’s perspective on rules, priorities, and the “shoulds” in life.Her commitment to focusing on joy and meaningful experiences over perfection. In this candid conversation, Gabby reflects on the transformative period of her 30s and early 40s, shaped by loss, creativity, and resilience. Her story is a testament to the power of finding clarity through adversity, redefining personal priorities, and embracing joy amidst life's unpredictability. Gabby's journey is sure to inspire anyone navigating their own transitions and challenges. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and review the podcast to support more inspiring conversations like this one! Guest ResourcesGabby’s Author Website Connect with Gabby on Facebook Connect with Gabby on Instagram Do you have the Midlife Ick? Download Stephanie’s guide to the Ick to diagnose whether you or someone you love is suffering from this insidious midlife malaise. www.fortydrinks.com/ick Listen, Rate & SubscribeYouTube Podcasts Apple Podcasts  a...

    54 min
  7. 05/12/2024

    Turning 40 and Ejecting From the Default Life - Together

    In this episode of the Forty Drinks Podcast, Stephanie interviews Meredith and Craig Bennett, her first dual interview guests, about their shared midlife transition. The couple discusses their background, how perfectionism and societal expectations shaped their early lives, and how a pivotal moment led them to make significant life changes during the pandemic. They delve into their journey of personal growth, self-discovery, and the deep work they've done to redefine their identities and values, both as individuals and as a couple. Their story highlights the power of intuition, vulnerability, and the importance of working on oneself as well as one's relationship. Now, as marriage coaches, they help others navigate similar transitions, focusing on relationships and personal fulfillment. Guest Bio We are Meredith & Craig. We left the 9-to-5 corporate grind right around our 40th birthdays, to become full time entrepreneurs...and had no idea what we were doing. We knew we were unhappy and unfulfilled in our corporate careers and that life is just too short for that. So we made a massive change, left our corporate careers without a plan. And promptly fell on our faces. We picked ourselves up, found our purpose and along the way created a rock solid marriage... that we believe is the cheat code for leveling up all areas of life. We love helping others get that part of their lives exactly where they’ve always wanted it, so they can go out and crush the rest of their lives too. Turning 40 and Ejecting From the Default Life - TogetherMeredith and Craig Bennett’s journey is one of transformation, courage, and deep connection. Facing a midlife turning point together, they left behind stable corporate careers, ventured into personal growth, and emerged as partners in life and business. Their story is about finding themselves, rebuilding their identities, and embracing vulnerability—all while strengthening their marriage. Episode Highlights: Breaking free from the “default life”: Meredith and Craig shared how they challenged societal expectations, left secure corporate jobs, and explored paths more aligned with their values and dreams.Facing fears head-on: Both admitted to grappling with perfectionism, fear of failure, and external validation, but they worked to unlearn limiting beliefs.Reinvention through personal growth: A six-month journey of self-discovery led to insights about their identities, strengths, and life aspirations, helping them transition into marriage coaching.Navigating transitions as a team: They highlighted the power of shared growth, common language, and accountability in creating a strong, resilient partnership.Lessons in vulnerability and connection: From journaling practices to unlearning negative self-talk, they shared tools and insights that strengthened both their individual selves and their relationship.Becoming coaches: Inspired by their transformative journey and feedback from peers, they now help others build stronger relationships and navigate personal growth.Embracing their next big chapter: Writing a book and continuing their growth journey is their focus, showcasing the importance of lifelong learning and entrepreneurship. Meredith and Craig Bennett share how midlife transitions reshaped their lives and marriage. Their journey reveals the power of self-discovery, the importance of shared growth, and the courage it takes to rewrite your story. From breaking free of societal norms to navigating challenges together, they model what’s possible when you trust your intuition and prioritize what truly matters. Meredith and Craig’s honesty and insights offer listeners valuable lessons for their own transformations. If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, follow, and review the podcast. Your support helps us share more stories of midlife transformations! Guest...

    56 min

About

Sometime around age 40 (+/-) you might start feeling like some part of your life no longer fits and you don't know what to do about it. It could be at work or at home - or simply inside of you. You might be asking questions like, "How did I get here?" Or, "Is this all there is?" "Is this what I've been working so hard for?" Or, "Why aren't I happier?" Growing out of her own experience turning 40, Stephanie McLaughlin became captivated by the big “four oh,” and how people handle the milestone birthday. On The Big Four Oh Podcast, Stephanie has conversations with people about their life experience around turning 40. This birthday often comes wrapped in larger life changes, whether it’s a newfound search for meaning, accepting your mortality, or shedding all those things you did because some external authority said you “should.” Her mission is to make it common cultural knowledge that there IS a transition most of us face around age 40, and then showcase so many versions of that transition that every single person approaching, or recently turned, 40 with dread in their heart, knows that they are not alone. I know you don't want to call it a midlife crisis, so I won't, but "if the glove fits, you must acquit." 😉

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