Unravelling: The Diary of a Midlife Mess

Sharon Wilkes-Burt
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Unravelling: The Diary of a Midlife Mess is the podcast for women who’ve hit midlife and are wondering, What the hell happened? Certified Life coach Sharon Wilkes-Burt takes you through the identity crises, the confidence wobbles, and the downright weirdness of the messy middle—with journal prompts, real talk, and a generous splash of radical kindness. If midlife feels like an unfinished book, let’s scribble in the margins together.

  1. NOV 2

    Doing it scared - Solo Episode and Season 2 sign off

    When I started this podcast, I had no fancy mic, no clue how to edit, and absolutely no idea what I was doing,  just a whole lot of courage and a clear intention to have honest conversations about the messy middle of life.  In this solo episode, I’m reflecting on what I’ve learned  about fear, confidence, and taking bold steps even when you feel wildly unprepared.  Because confidence isn’t built in comfort; it’s built in motion. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of Unravelling: The Diary of a Midlife Mess. If something resonated with you today, I’d love to hear your thoughts, come join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram @themessymiddlelife or visit sharonwilkesburt.com for more resources and support. 💌 Freebie: Grab Mirror Mirror : A simple self-reflection tool to shift how you see the woman in the mirror, observing her with kindness (instead of criticism) ✨ Unravelling: A journalling course for midlife women A self-paced course to help you get clear, feel more like you again, and find solid ground in the messy bits of midlife. 🌱 New Beginnings Session Curious about coaching but not sure if it’s for you? This one-off 90-minute coaching conversation is designed to give you a taste of what’s possible, with an easy introductory offer to help you begin. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you’re enjoying the journey so far! Let’s Begin | You’re not too late, too much, or too lost. This is just the middle ... and there’s gold in here.

    9 min
  2. Living on her own timeline - Donna Fortune's midlife unravelling

    OCT 26

    Living on her own timeline - Donna Fortune's midlife unravelling

    In this episode of The Unravelling, I’m joined by Donna — a life-seeking, deep-thinking, conversation-loving woman who’s discovering what it really means to live on her own timeline. From modelling in her 20s, to embracing motherhood in her 30s, to starting over with photography in her 40s, Donna has always done things a little later than expected — and she’s learning that maybe that’s her strength. Now in her 50s, she’s navigating the changes of menopause, the shifting face in the mirror, and the unravelling of relationships that no longer feel balanced. We talk about ageing, beauty standards, and the way midlife asks us to let go of who we’ve been in order to step into who we’re becoming. Donna also shares her belief that the challenges women face with hormones today may be shaped by the environment we live in, and why she thinks this messy middle is less about answers and more about awareness. Alongside her personal journey, Donna has built a business as a personal brand photographer and consultant. Through Donna Fortune Photography, she helps women show up authentically in front of the camera, with a strong desire to promote a healthy self-image and a positive approach to ageing. If you’ve ever felt the “WTF” of midlife while also being excited for what’s ahead, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. Connect with Donna here:  📸 Instagram: @donna_fortune_photography 🌐 Website: donnafortunephotography.com Thanks for tuning in to this episode of Unravelling: The Diary of a Midlife Mess. If something resonated with you today, I’d love to hear your thoughts, come join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram @themessymiddlelife or visit sharonwilkesburt.com for more resources and support. 💌 Freebie: Grab Mirror Mirror : A simple self-reflection tool to shift how you see the woman in the mirror, observing her with kindness (instead of criticism) ✨ Unravelling: A journalling course for midlife women A self-paced course to help you get clear, feel more like you again, and find solid ground in the messy bits of midlife. 🌱 New Beginnings Session Curious about coaching but not sure if it’s for you? This one-off 90-minute coaching conversation is designed to give you a taste of what’s possible, with an easy introductory offer to help you begin. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you’re enjoying the journey so far! Let’s Begin | You’re not too late, too much, or too lost. This is just the middle ... and there’s gold in here.

    1h 6m
  3. From Hustle to Harmony with Sarah Thomson

    OCT 19

    From Hustle to Harmony with Sarah Thomson

    In this episode, Sharon sits down with Sarah Thomson, multi award winning digital business coach, and founder of Online Social Butterfly, to talk about what happens when a life built on achievement meets the messy middle of midlife. Sarah’s story is one of evolution — from corporate high-flyer to entrepreneur, from people-pleasing perfectionist to woman learning the art of rest, and from the hustle of “doing it all” to embracing compassion and crone energy. They chat about career pivots, perimenopause brain fog, the realities of parenting when it doesn’t come naturally, and the courage it takes to stop soldiering on. If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Who am I without my work?” or felt scared that slowing down might mean losing yourself — this conversation is for you.Takeaways Self-compassion is crucial during challenging times. It's important to allow others to help and support you. Navigating motherhood can be overwhelming, but it's okay to seek help. Finding balance between work and family is essential for well-being. Health challenges can lead to important life changes and self-discovery. Women often feel pressured to conform to societal expectations. Embracing change and being open to new routines can be liberating. Confidence in one's abilities can fluctuate throughout life. It's okay to prioritize personal happiness over societal norms. Learning to say no is a powerful act of self-care. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Unraveling the Midlife Mess 02:03 Exploring Teenage Diaries and Early Influences 05:54 Navigating Career Choices and Early Success 11:58 The Evolution of Self-Confidence 17:46 Motherhood: Challenges and Realizations 23:50 Finding Balance in Work and Family Life 29:57 Turning Points and Life Changes 35:55 Health Challenges and Self-Compassion 41:57 Embracing Change and New Routines 47:48 Lessons Learned and Advice for Women 53:52 Conclusion and Reflections on the Journey You can find Sarah over at @onlinesocialbutterfly or tune in to her excellent podcast The Social Circus Thanks for tuning in to this episode of Unravelling: The Diary of a Midlife Mess. If something resonated with you today, I’d love to hear your thoughts, come join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram @themessymiddlelife or visit sharonwilkesburt.com for more resources and support. 💌 Freebie: Grab Mirror Mirror : A simple self-reflection tool to shift how you see the woman in the mirror, observing her with kindness (instead of criticism) ✨ Unravelling: A journalling course for midlife women A self-paced course to help you get clear, feel more like you again, and find solid ground in the messy bits of midlife. 🌱 New Beginnings Session Curious about coaching but not sure if it’s for you? This one-off 90-minute coaching conversation is designed to give you a taste of what’s possible, with an easy introductory offer to help you begin. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you’re enjoying the journey so far! Let’s Begin | You’re not too late, too much, or too lost. This is just the middle ... and there’s gold in here.

    57 min
  4. The Art of being Unf**kwithable with Donna Williams

    OCT 12

    The Art of being Unf**kwithable with Donna Williams

    In this engaging conversation, Sharon Wilkes-Burt and Donnaprana explore the journey of self-discovery and resilience through various life stages. From teenage years filled with angst to the pressures of adulthood, they discuss how societal expectations shape our understanding of success. The conversation delves into the impact of trauma, the importance of self-compassion, and the liberating experience of embracing one's true self in midlife. Donnaprana shares her insights on the significance of meditation, healthy living, and the power of community support in navigating life's challenges. Ultimately, the discussion highlights the beauty of personal growth and the freedom that comes with self-acceptance. Discover more about Donna, and her beautiful Swiss mountain life, her retreats and practices at https://emergencyoga.org/ Or over at https://www.instagram.com/emergencyoga/ Takeaways Meditation is a crucial practice for self-awareness. Self-compassion can transform your internal narrative. Your identity can evolve; you can redefine yourself. Healthy eating significantly impacts mental health. Surround yourself with supportive people. Embrace the freedom that comes with aging. Trauma can lead to profound personal growth. It's okay to let go of relationships that no longer serve you. Life experiences shape our resilience and character. You can have anything you want in life if you believe it.  Titles Unraveling the Journey of Midlife From Teen Angst to Midlife Wisdom Sound bites "I think this is the making of us." "I rarely felt I wasn't going to survive." "This is a total life hack." Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:53 Teenage Years and Early Influences 06:01 Defining Success in the 20s 08:46 Career Focus in the 30s 11:47 Turning 40: Reflections and Changes 14:34 Trauma and Growth in the 40s 17:38 Embracing Freedom in the 50s 20:37 The Thread of Nature and Independence 23:23 Unraveling and Identity 26:26 Lessons from Unraveling 29:22 Advice for Women in Transition Thanks for tuning in to this episode of Unravelling: The Diary of a Midlife Mess. If something resonated with you today, I’d love to hear your thoughts, come join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram @themessymiddlelife or visit sharonwilkesburt.com for more resources and support. 💌 Freebie: Grab Mirror Mirror : A simple self-reflection tool to shift how you see the woman in the mirror, observing her with kindness (instead of criticism) ✨ Unravelling: A journalling course for midlife women A self-paced course to help you get clear, feel more like you again, and find solid ground in the messy bits of midlife. 🌱 New Beginnings Session Curious about coaching but not sure if it’s for you? This one-off 90-minute coaching conversation is designed to give you a taste of what’s possible, with an easy introductory offer to help you begin. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you’re enjoying the journey so far! Let’s Begin | You’re not too late, too much, or too lost. This is just the middle ... and there’s gold in here.

    56 min
  5. Caring for Mum ... Caring for Yourself: Midlife lessons with Eliza Ludwig

    OCT 5

    Caring for Mum ... Caring for Yourself: Midlife lessons with Eliza Ludwig

    Eliza has lived through seasons of not fitting in, building a career she never planned, raising kids while feeling quietly alone, and now caring for her mum through Alzheimer’s.  Along the way, she’s carried questions about what she deserves, what really matters, and how to live with both grief and gratitude. In this heartfelt conversation, she shares her unravelling, the shifts, the sadness, and the slow rediscovery of joy.  At its heart, this is a story about kindness, connection, and the messy middle moments that shape us. You can discover more about Eliza's work offering financial education and strategy to small businesses at https://www.instagram.com/the_flow_society/ Thanks for tuning in to this episode of Unravelling: The Diary of a Midlife Mess. If something resonated with you today, I’d love to hear your thoughts, come join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram @themessymiddlelife or visit sharonwilkesburt.com for more resources and support. 💌 Freebie: Grab Mirror Mirror : A simple self-reflection tool to shift how you see the woman in the mirror, observing her with kindness (instead of criticism) ✨ Unravelling: A journalling course for midlife women A self-paced course to help you get clear, feel more like you again, and find solid ground in the messy bits of midlife. 🌱 New Beginnings Session Curious about coaching but not sure if it’s for you? This one-off 90-minute coaching conversation is designed to give you a taste of what’s possible, with an easy introductory offer to help you begin. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you’re enjoying the journey so far! Let’s Begin | You’re not too late, too much, or too lost. This is just the middle ... and there’s gold in here.

    57 min
  6. Dressing Your Confidence: Cath’s Journey from Self-Doubt to Styling

    SEP 28

    Dressing Your Confidence: Cath’s Journey from Self-Doubt to Styling

    Cath, founder of Edit & Style by Caterina, knows firsthand how confidence and style are deeply connected. From a teenage girl struggling with self-doubt to a woman navigating career changes, motherhood, infertility, and perimenopause, Cath has learned to embrace her evolving self—and help other women do the same. In this episode, we talk about the emotional side of style, the power of wardrobe choices to boost confidence, and practical ways to love the body you’re in right now. We also share how her story connects beautifully with my Mirror Mirror freebie, designed to help you shift the way you see yourself—one small step at a time. Connect with Cath @editandstyle.perth on instagram  www.editandstyle.com.au Thanks for tuning in to this episode of Unravelling: The Diary of a Midlife Mess. If something resonated with you today, I’d love to hear your thoughts, come join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram @themessymiddlelife or visit sharonwilkesburt.com for more resources and support. 💌 Freebie: Grab Mirror Mirror : A simple self-reflection tool to shift how you see the woman in the mirror, observing her with kindness (instead of criticism) ✨ Unravelling: A journalling course for midlife women A self-paced course to help you get clear, feel more like you again, and find solid ground in the messy bits of midlife. 🌱 New Beginnings Session Curious about coaching but not sure if it’s for you? This one-off 90-minute coaching conversation is designed to give you a taste of what’s possible, with an easy introductory offer to help you begin. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you’re enjoying the journey so far! Let’s Begin | You’re not too late, too much, or too lost. This is just the middle ... and there’s gold in here.

    1h 13m
  7. Pork Pies and the Perfect Purpose with Linda Davey

    SEP 21

    Pork Pies and the Perfect Purpose with Linda Davey

    Linda describes herself as a British expat recreating home comforts one pork pie at a time. Tea, nostalgia a bit of cheek, baker turned writer From teenage motorbike rides and early marriage, to award-winning bridal dressmaking and walking barefoot out of hospital during one of her darkest moments, Linda’s life has been anything but ordinary. In this episode of The Unravelling, Linda shares her journey through motherhood, divorce, sobriety, ADHD-fuelled creativity, and the discovery that perfectionism and mess can coexist. Now 60, she’s writing a cookbook, Pork Pies and the Perfect Pickle, celebrating over 200 days sober, and learning to love her own company, proof that it’s never too late to rewrite your story. This conversation is raw, funny, and deeply human ... as indeed is Linda  Trigger advisory: this episode includes discussion of alcoholism, addiction, and mental health struggles. Please take care while listening. Check out Linda's website and her brilliant blogs  Thanks for tuning in to this episode of Unravelling the Diary of a Midlife Mess. If something resonated with you today, I’d love to hear your thoughts, come join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram @themessymiddlelife or visit https://sharonwilkesburt.com/ for more resources and support. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review if you’re enjoying the journey so far! If you're ready to dig a little deeper into your own midlife transformation, check out my Journal through the Messy Middle course , it’s the perfect way to start untangling what’s next. Join me inside Journal Through the Messy Middle — a self-paced course to help you get clear, feel more like you again, and find solid ground in the wobbly bits of midlife. 👉 Journal Through The Messy Middle Curious about coaching but not sure if it's for you? The New Beginning session is a one-off 90-minute coaching conversation designed to give you a taste of what’s possible, with an introductory offer to make it easy to start. 🌱 New Beginnings Let's Begin | You’re not too late, too much, or too lost. This is just the middle ...and there’s gold in here.

    1h 1m
  8. Coming home to your heart with Karen Kelly

    SEP 14

    Coming home to your heart with Karen Kelly

    Karen’s life has taken her from Liverpool to the Australian outback, from running a bustling bridal business to hosting soulful Rainbow Frequency gatherings.  In this episode of The Unravelling, she shares her midlife rebirth, the spiritual awakening that began in her 40s, and why life now feels like a homecoming to self. We explore her belief that when someone criticises you, triggers you, or annoys you, it’s actually a gift. A mirror showing you something about yourself.  We also dive into her unforgettable analogy: “You’ve got the engine on the boat, but you’ve lost the boat,” and what it really means when your head is steering but your heart’s been left behind. Along the way, Karen talks about the importance of tuning in to yourself, manifestation, the lessons hidden in life’s challenges, and the joy of living simply.  And for our UK listeners, yes, we clear up exactly what she means when she says she’s mooching around the farm in her thongs and socks. Thanks for tuning in to this episode of Unravelling the Diary of a Midlife Mess. If something resonated with you today, I’d love to hear your thoughts, come join the conversation on Facebook and Instagram @themessymiddlelife or visit https://sharonwilkesburt.com/ for more resources and support. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review if you’re enjoying the journey so far! If you're ready to dig a little deeper into your own midlife transformation, check out my Journal through the Messy Middle course , it’s the perfect way to start untangling what’s next. Join me inside Journal Through the Messy Middle — a self-paced course to help you get clear, feel more like you again, and find solid ground in the wobbly bits of midlife. 👉 Journal Through The Messy Middle Curious about coaching but not sure if it's for you? The New Beginning session is a one-off 90-minute coaching conversation designed to give you a taste of what’s possible, with an introductory offer to make it easy to start. 🌱 New Beginnings Let's Begin | You’re not too late, too much, or too lost. This is just the middle ...and there’s gold in here.

    1h 1m
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About

Unravelling: The Diary of a Midlife Mess is the podcast for women who’ve hit midlife and are wondering, What the hell happened? Certified Life coach Sharon Wilkes-Burt takes you through the identity crises, the confidence wobbles, and the downright weirdness of the messy middle—with journal prompts, real talk, and a generous splash of radical kindness. If midlife feels like an unfinished book, let’s scribble in the margins together.

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