Midlife Strategies for Badass Women

Sue Willoughby
  • 5.0 (13)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Midlife Strategies for Badass Women is the go-to podcast for bold, brilliant women over 40 who are done playing small and ready to reinvent their lives—without guilt, filters, or apologies. Hosted by Badass Midlife Strategist - Sue Willoughby, each weekly episode delivers unfiltered conversations, real stories of reinvention, and practical strategies to help you break free from the crap that’s holding you back and finally live life on your damn terms. Whether you’re navigating a midlife reset, rediscovering your passions, building confidence, or launching your next chapter—this podcast gives you the mindset shifts, clarity, and community to make it happen. 🔥 Expect: No-BS life advice and midlife strategies that actually work Inspiring interviews with women who’ve transformed their lives Soul-stirring solo episodes packed with truth and action Coaching-style episodes to help you reclaim your purpose, power, and passion This isn’t a podcast about “getting through” midlife. It’s about owning it—louder, wiser, bolder, and unapologetically YOU. Subscribe now and start rewriting the rules of what’s possible in your 40s, 50s, and beyond.

  1. Grief Has No Timeline: Navigating Loss, Energy, and Healing in Midlife

    4D AGO

    Grief Has No Timeline: Navigating Loss, Energy, and Healing in Midlife

    What happens when life as you knew it suddenly disappears and there is no handbook for what comes next? In this powerful and deeply honest episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue Willoughby sits down with Stephanie Olivo to talk about grief, healing, energy, and rebuilding life after devastating loss. Stephanie shares the story behind her podcast Discontinued, Now What?, which was born after experiencing multiple life-altering losses in a short period of time. Her stepson died from an overdose, and just over a year later, her husband died by suicide. What followed was not a neat healing arc, but a long, messy, deeply personal journey through grief, spirituality, and self-discovery. Together, Sue and Stephanie explore why we avoid talking about death, addiction, and trauma, how unprocessed emotions live in the body, and why healing is not something you “get over,” but something you learn to live with. They dive into alternative healing modalities like Reiki, hypnotherapy, and energy work, and how curiosity and openness can create unexpected breakthroughs. This episode is for anyone navigating grief, loss, major life transitions, or the quiet question so many women ask in midlife: Now what? In this episode, we cover: The losses that led Stephanie to create Discontinued, Now What? Navigating grief after overdose and suicide Why there is no timeline for healing How grief and trauma live in the body The role of Reiki, hypnotherapy, and energy work in healing Why talking about death and addiction matters Recognizing emotional triggers and where they live physically Protecting your energy in relationships, work, and daily life How sensitivity to energy shows up in unexpected places, including real estate Why healing is a journey, not a destination Chapters [00:00:00] Intro & Guest Welcome [00:03:40] Where’s the Handbook Grief Loss & Closing the Business [00:06:19] Talking About Suicide Addiction & Creating an Outlet Through the Podcast [00:11:47] Tools That Helped Journaling Meditation & Spiritual Connection [00:24:41] Energy Work Reconnection & Reiki Experiences [00:48:45] Closing Gems How to Connect & Healing Is a Journey   Resources and Links: Website: https://www.dcnw.info/ Podcast: Discontinued, Now What? Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DiscontinuedNowWhat/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_dcnw_/ Book: https://amzn.to/4qVGyV3  The Voyage and the Return: A Path to Self Discovery (contributing author)   FOLLOW and CONNECT with Sue I'm Pod Curious! Book a Podcast Success Call -  https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/podcast-success-call Website - https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/ Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/ Burning desire to start your own podcast? I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and making your passion a reality. https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/podcast-success-call #LifeWorthBeing #Transformation #LifeCoach #Women #Empowerment #PersonalGrowth #InnerStrength #PurposefulLiving #MidlifeTransformation #Mindfulness #Mindset #SelfDiscovery #WomenEmpowerment #midlifestrategies    🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥 I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40. This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place. Each week, you’ll get real talk, raw stories, and badass strategies to help you: ✨ Smash through self-doubt and limitations ✨ Reclaim your confidence and clarity ✨ Build resilience and embrace reinvention ✨ Create a midlife that feels authentic, aligned, and f*cking powerful This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically. 👉 Hit subscribe so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife—together.

    52 min
  2. Your Parents’ Pain Is Not Yours to Carry: Healing Trauma at Any Age

    FEB 10

    Your Parents’ Pain Is Not Yours to Carry: Healing Trauma at Any Age

    What if wisdom doesn’t come from age alone but from what you’ve survived, questioned, and chosen to heal? In this deeply moving episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue Willoughby sits down with Lexi Benitez, a 23-year-old podcaster whose life experience, emotional intelligence, and self-awareness rival that of women decades older. Lexi shares her story of being raised by her great-grandparents, navigating parental incarceration and deportation, losing the woman who raised her just before graduating high school, and becoming a surrogate caretaker for her younger siblings at an age when most people are still figuring themselves out. She opens up about depression, suicidal ideation, leaving the Mormon church, and the moment she realized that her parents’ pain was not hers to carry. That realization came during an unexpected and isolating season working on an oil rig in North Dakota, where distance, silence, and support from the right people helped her reconnect with herself and begin healing. This conversation explores forgiveness without obligation, identity beyond trauma, self-esteem that does not depend on external validation, and why choosing to live for yourself can be the most radical act of all. Whether you are 23 or 63, this episode is a reminder that healing has no timeline and your past does not get to decide your future. In this episode, we cover: Growing up fast and healing generational trauma as the oldest daughter How Lexi broke free from resentment and redefined her role in the family The emotional toll of religious trauma and leaving the Mormon church Coping with grief, depression, and two suicide attempts Why isolation on an oil rig became the catalyst for inner transformation The difference between ego-based confidence and true self-worth How podcasting became Lexi’s purpose and platform for healing The role of mentorship, affirmations, and spirituality in personal growth Advice for those carrying emotional burdens that aren’t theirs to hold Becoming a life coach and turning pain into purpose   Chapters [00:00:00] Lexi's First Podcast Guest Appearance [00:02:27] Childhood, Loss and Stepping Into Survival Mode [00:08:15] Forgiveness, Boundaries and Reclaiming Her Role [00:12:59] Depression, Suicide Attempts and Choosing Life [00:22:52] Oil Rig Epiphany and Birth of a Podcast [00:33:28] Purpose, Podcasting and What’s Next Connect with Lexi Benitez: Lexi Benitez: https://open.spotify.com/show/6VHVXzEgJxsqDmQ8Eml4No Website: https://sincerelyselfpodcast.com Instagram: https://instagram.com/lexbenitez_/ YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Sincerelyself TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@lexbenitezz?     FOLLOW and CONNECT with Sue I'm Pod Curious! Book a Podcast Success Call -  https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/podcast-success-call Website - https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/ Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/ Burning desire to start your own podcast? I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and making your passion a reality. https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/podcast-success-call #LifeWorthBeing #Transformation #LifeCoach #Women #Empowerment #PersonalGrowth #InnerStrength #PurposefulLiving #MidlifeTransformation #Mindfulness #Mindset #SelfDiscovery #WomenEmpowerment #midlifestrategies    🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥 I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40. This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place. Each week, you’ll get real talk, raw stories, and badass strategies to help you: ✨ Smash through self-doubt and limitations ✨ Reclaim your confidence and clarity ✨ Build resilience and embrace reinvention ✨ Create a midlife that feels authentic, aligned, and f*cking powerful This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically. 👉 Hit subscribe so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife—together.

    45 min
  3. Employee Mindset vs CEO Mindset | Which One Are You Stuck In?

    FEB 3

    Employee Mindset vs CEO Mindset | Which One Are You Stuck In?

    What if midlife is not the time to play it safe, but the moment you finally step into visibility, leadership, and bigger goals? In this inspiring episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue Willoughby sits down with entrepreneur and co-founder of the Million Dollar Mom Society to talk about mindset shifts, visibility, and what it really takes to move from employee thinking to CEO thinking in midlife. Anisa shares her journey from a six-figure corporate career in a male-dominated industry to building a seven-figure business in just one year. She opens up about scarcity mindset, grief, personal development, and the courage it takes to give yourself permission to want more. This conversation dives deep into why visibility is not about fame or followers, but about positioning, consistency, and planting seeds long before you see results. Anisa breaks down how women can grow audiences, leverage collaboration, and stop waiting for confidence before taking action. If you are a midlife woman feeling the pull toward something bigger, but fear, self-doubt, or comfort has been keeping you stuck, this episode will stretch you in the best way. In this episode, we cover: Why midlife often triggers a desire for deeper purpose and impact How Anisa shifted from employee mindset to CEO mindset Scarcity thinking, personal development, and breaking generational patterns Why visibility is about consistency, not going viral How collaboration accelerates growth faster than going it alone Building a seven-figure business without a massive social following Why email lists matter more than social media platforms The fear women face around being seen and taking up space Why courage matters more than confidence Playing the long game and trusting compound growth Chapters [00:00:00] Opening and episode framing [00:07:20] COVID pivot and mindset roots [00:14:43] Rapid group growth and list building [00:17:17] Visibility ecosystem and tactics [00:23:33] Compounding growth and long game [00:28:41] Fear, courage, and bigger rooms [00:34:51] Network like a CEO; wrap-up Connect with Anisa Crespo: Website: https://www.milliondollarmom.org/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anisacrespo  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keepingupwiththecrespos/  Book: https://a.co/d/dTOwpk4  Free Gift: https://www.milliondollarmom.org/milliondollarminimind    FOLLOW and CONNECT with Sue I'm Pod Curious! Book a Podcast Success Call -  https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/podcast-success-call Website - https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/ Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/   If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out. I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion. https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/podcast-success-call #LifeWorthBeing #Transformation #LifeCoach #Women #Empowerment #PersonalGrowth #InnerStrength #PurposefulLiving #MidlifeTransformation #Mindfulness #Mindset #SelfDiscovery #WomenEmpowerment #midlifestrategies    🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥   I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40.   This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place. Each week, you’ll get real talk, raw stories, and badass strategies to help you: ✨ Smash through self-doubt and limitations ✨ Reclaim your confidence and clarity ✨ Build resilience and embrace reinvention ✨ Create a midlife that feels authentic, aligned, and f*cking powerful This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically. 👉 Hit subscribe so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife—together.

    43 min
  4. Why You're Burned Out Has Nothing to Do With Motivation - Mel McSherry

    JAN 27

    Why You're Burned Out Has Nothing to Do With Motivation - Mel McSherry

    What if the reason you feel exhausted, scattered, or behind has nothing to do with motivation and everything to do with how you are wired? In this insightful and energizing episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue Willoughby welcomes Human Design practitioner Mel McSherry back to the show to unpack why January pressure, hustle culture, and one-size-fits-all goal setting leave so many midlife women burned out. Mel explains how Human Design offers a practical framework for understanding your energy, decision-making style, and natural pace. Together, Sue and Mel explore why forcing yourself into systems that are not aligned with your design leads to exhaustion, self-doubt, and constant comparison. From generators and projectors to manifestors and reflectors, this episode breaks down the five Human Design types in a way that is clear, relatable, and immediately useful. You will learn why waiting, resting, responding, or informing are not weaknesses, but strategic strengths when used correctly. This conversation is especially powerful for midlife women who feel pressure to have everything figured out by January 1st and are tired of setting goals that never quite stick. In this episode, we cover: Why January goal pressure does not work for most people The difference between knowing your why and understanding your how How Human Design explains burnout, decision fatigue, and overextension The five Human Design types and their core strategies Why projectors burn out when they try to keep up with generators How waiting, resting, and responding can be powerful strategies Why comparison on social media is misleading and harmful How Human Design supports sustainable business and life decisions Why trusting yourself is the most important skill to develop in midlife Chapters: [00:00:00] Introduction and episode setup [00:03:37] New Year energy, timing, and resolutions vs intentions [00:10:00] What human design is and how it helps [00:13:47] Working with strategy: waiting, boundaries, and conditioning [00:20:51] The five human design types and their strategies [00:26:11] Centers, signatures, and conditioning vs personality tests [00:34:44] Decision-making authorities and practical application; closing advice and links Resources and Links - Connect with Mel: Website: https://www.melmcsherry.com/ Virtual Coffee Chats: https://virtualcoffeewithmel.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mel_mcsherry LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melmcsherry Previous Episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-your-true-potential-with-human-design-with/id1753943662?i=1000688811681   FOLLOW and CONNECT with Sue I'm Pod Curious! Book a Podcast Success Call -  https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/podcast-success-call Website - https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/ Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/ If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out. I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion. https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/podcast-success-call #LifeWorthBeing #Transformation #LifeCoach #Women #Empowerment #PersonalGrowth #InnerStrength #PurposefulLiving #MidlifeTransformation #Mindfulness #Mindset #SelfDiscovery #WomenEmpowerment #midlifestrategies  🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥 I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40. This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place. Each week, you’ll get real talk, raw stories, and badass strategies to help you: ✨ Smash through self-doubt and limitations ✨ Reclaim your confidence and clarity ✨ Build resilience and embrace reinvention ✨ Create a midlife that feels authentic, aligned, and f*cking powerful This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically. 👉 Hit subscribe and turn on the bell so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife—together.

    50 min
  5. Your Nervous System Won't Let You Succeed (Until You Do This)

    JAN 20

    Your Nervous System Won't Let You Succeed (Until You Do This)

    What if the reason your goals keep falling apart has nothing to do with discipline, motivation, or willpower? In this powerful and practical episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue Willoughby welcomes somatic practitioner and intuitive Liz Potter back to the show to talk about why most New Year’s goals fail and what actually works instead. Liz breaks down the nervous system science behind resolutions, burnout, and what she calls functional freeze. Together, Sue and Liz explore why setting goals from overwhelm, pressure, or social conditioning almost guarantees self-sabotage and how learning to listen to your body changes everything. This conversation introduces Liz’s SAFE framework for goal setting, which prioritizes safety, alignment, felt sense, and embodied receiving. It is a radically kinder approach that helps women move forward without forcing, collapsing, or burning out. If you are a midlife woman who feels stuck, exhausted, or frustrated by goals that never seem to stick, this episode offers relief, clarity, and a grounded way forward. In this episode, we cover: Why resolutions fail when they are driven by pressure or culture The difference between goals and intentions and why language matters What functional freeze looks like and why so many women live in it How overwhelm disconnects the brain from the body Why your nervous system must consent to your goals Liz’s SAFE framework for sustainable goal setting Why accountability partners often backfire When sharing goals can actually drain momentum How rest, timing, and seasonal energy support real change Why safety can never be the collateral damage of growth Resources mentioned: Connect with Liz https://theselfresourced.com/ Previous Episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rewire-your-nervous-system-how-intuition-energy-healing/id1753943662?i=1000728004667 Chapters [00:00:00] Introduction and guest re-introduction [00:03:12] Resolutions vs intentions; social pressure [00:06:38] Nervous system consent and steps [00:12:05] Somatic communication and SAFE framework [00:22:01] Iterate; avoid functional freeze; rest [00:38:59] Preparing during the pause; boundaries [00:52:23] Safety first; cues, wrap-up, promos   FOLLOW and CONNECT with Sue I'm Pod Curious! Book a Podcast Success Call -  https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/podcast-success-call Website - https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/ Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/ Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/ If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion. #LifeWorthBeing #Transformation #LifeCoach #Women #Empowerment #PersonalGrowth #InnerStrength #PurposefulLiving #MidlifeTransformation #Mindfulness #Mindset #SelfDiscovery #WomenEmpowerment #midlifestrategies #podcastcoach  🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥 I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40. This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place. Each week, you’ll get real talk, raw stories, and badass strategies to help you: ✨ Smash through self-doubt and limitations ✨ Reclaim your confidence and clarity ✨ Build resilience and embrace reinvention ✨ Create a midlife that feels authentic, aligned, and f*cking powerful This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically. 👉 Hit subscribe, send a 5🌟 rating, review, and share with a friend so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife together.

    1h 5m
  6. Sober Curious?: How Midlife Women Can Rethink Alcohol Without Shame

    JAN 13

    Sober Curious?: How Midlife Women Can Rethink Alcohol Without Shame

    What if questioning your relationship with alcohol doesn’t mean you have a problem — it just means you’re paying attention? In this honest and eye-opening episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue Willoughby sits down with alcohol relationship coach and host of the Sober and Lit podcast, Susan Larkin, for a compassionate, no-shame conversation about gray area drinking — the space where many successful midlife women quietly wonder, “Is this still serving me?” Susan shares her personal journey of questioning her own drinking, the shame and self-blame that kept her stuck for years, and why the all-or-nothing narrative around alcohol stops so many women from getting the support they actually need. Together, Sue and Susan unpack how alcohol often becomes a coping mechanism for stress, anxiety, loneliness, and life transitions — and why curiosity, not labels, is the most powerful place to start. This episode is not about telling you to quit drinking. It’s about giving you information, perspective, and permission to explore your relationship with alcohol in a way that feels empowering and self-directed. 🔥 In this episode, you’ll learn: What gray area drinking really is — and why so many midlife women fall into it Why shame keeps women stuck in negative habit loops How alcohol quietly affects anxiety, depression, sleep, and intuition The difference between “high functioning” and truly thriving Why alcohol-free doesn’t have to mean isolation or deprivation How to get curious about the jobs you’ve given alcohol in your life Why taking a break can be the most revealing experiment of all If you’ve ever Googled “Do I drink too much?”, felt a quiet heaviness after drinking, or wondered why something that once felt fun no longer does — this conversation will resonate deeply. Connect with Susan Larkin Website: https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com/1drinklesswithsusan1 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susanlarkincoaching/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drinklesswithsusan Book(s): https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com/the-freedom-formula-rewire-regulate-and-rise Podcast: Sober and Lit https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sober-lit-podcast/id1723773456 Free Gift: https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com/afsociallife Chapters [00:00:00] Welcome and guest introduction [00:02:35] Susan’s story and philosophy [00:06:13] Family impact and hidden baggage [00:15:16] Connection, desire, and sobriety framing [00:26:36] Navigating social life without alcohol [00:35:53] Midlife trends, risks, and accelerators [00:41:24] Culture, marketing, and coping patterns [00:48:18] Closing advice, resources, and outro   FOLLOW and CONNECT with Sue I'm Pod Curious! Book a Podcast Success Call -  https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/podcast-success-call Website - https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/ Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/   Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/ If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion. #LifeWorthBeing #Transformation #LifeCoach #Women #Empowerment #PersonalGrowth #InnerStrength #PurposefulLiving #MidlifeTransformation #Mindfulness #Mindset #SelfDiscovery #WomenEmpowerment #midlifestrategies #podcastcoach  🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥 I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40. This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place. Each week, you’ll get real talk, raw stories, and badass strategies to help you: ✨ Smash through self-doubt and limitations ✨ Reclaim your confidence and clarity ✨ Build resilience and embrace reinvention ✨ Create a midlife that feels authentic, aligned, and f*cking powerful This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically. 👉 Hit subscribe, send a 5🌟 rating, review, and share with a friend so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife together.

    55 min
  7. Breaking Through Midlife Paralysis with Emily Schickli

    JAN 6

    Breaking Through Midlife Paralysis with Emily Schickli

    What if your exhaustion isn’t a failure but a message? And what if your next chapter doesn’t require burning your life down, just listening more closely to your body? In this powerful episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue Willoughby sits down with Speaking and Visibility Coach Emily Schickli to unpack burnout, nervous system regulation, passion projects, and why midlife is the perfect time to stop pushing and start aligning. Emily shares her journey from tech burnout and chronic stress to creating a life and business rooted in clarity, capacity, and confidence. Together, Sue and Emily explore how women can reconnect with their bodies, follow the breadcrumbs of curiosity, and experiment their way into purpose without overwhelming pressure. This is not about quitting your job overnight or reinventing yourself through hustle. It’s about learning to regulate your nervous system, reclaim your energy, and create space for what genuinely lights you up. In this episode, you’ll learn: ☑️Why burnout is often a nervous system issue, not a motivation problem ☑️How to recognize the “feather, brick, and Mack truck” signals from your body ☑️What nervous system regulation actually looks like in real life ☑️Why passion projects increase energy instead of draining it ☑️How small, low-pressure experiments lead to lasting clarity in midlife If you’re a woman in midlife feeling tired, disconnected, or unsure what’s next, this conversation offers relief, permission, and a grounded path forward. Chapters [00:00:00] Opening, show intro, and guest introduction [00:03:47] Emily’s journey from tech burnout to coaching [00:11:00] Modalities blend and Human Design discussion [00:15:28] Three-phase method: clarity, capacity, confidence [00:20:00] Who Emily helps and regulation-first approach [00:23:50] Nervous system regulation demo, havening, and somatics [00:37:22] The Compass Club: structure and community [00:41:26] Passion projects: definition, examples, and integration [00:52:13] Closing takeaways, free kit, links, and promo Connect with Emily Schickli 🔗Choose-Your-Own-Adventure Stress Relief Ritual Kit: https://www.emilyschickli.com/offers/KxLTnVz6/ 🔗The 7 Passion Projects for More Purpose, Energy & Time Freedom Guide & Training: https://emilyschickli.com/7-passion-projects 🔗Explore The Compass Club and other ways to work with Emily: https://emilyschickli.com 🔗YouTube: https://youtube.com/@MindBodyDharma  🔗Instagram: https://instagram.com/emilyschickli   I'm Pod Curious! Book a Podcast Success Call -  https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/podcast-success-call FOLLOW and CONNECT with Sue Website - https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/ Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/ Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/ If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion. #LifeWorthBeing #Transformation #LifeCoach #Women #Empowerment #PersonalGrowth #InnerStrength #PurposefulLiving #MidlifeTransformation #Mindfulness #Mindset #SelfDiscovery #WomenEmpowerment #midlifestrategies #podcastcoach  🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥 I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40. This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place. Each week, you’ll get real talk, raw stories, and badass strategies to help you: ✨ Smash through self-doubt and limitations ✨ Reclaim your confidence and clarity ✨ Build resilience and embrace reinvention ✨ Create a midlife that feels authentic, aligned, and f*cking powerful This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically. 👉 Hit subscribe, send a 5🌟 rating, review, and share with a friend so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife together.

    57 min
  8. Top 10 Midlife Strategies - 2025 Countdown

    12/30/2025

    Top 10 Midlife Strategies - 2025 Countdown

    🎙️ Top 10 Episodes of 2025 🥳 Midlife Strategies for Badass Women As we close out 2025, this special countdown episode highlights the conversations that resonated most deeply with our community of bold, midlife women. These are the stories that sparked courage, challenged comfort zones, and reminded us what’s possible when we stop playing small and start listening to ourselves. This is not about perfection. It’s about truth, resilience, and choosing yourself. Let’s count them down. 🔟 #10 – Kristen Chimack The Cost of Staying: Why Playing It Safe Is Riskier Than You Think Kristen Chimack joins the show to unpack the hidden risks of staying comfortable. This conversation is a powerful reminder that safety can quietly turn into stagnation and that growth often requires courage before confidence. 🎧 Listen to the episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cost-of-staying-why-playing-it-safe-is-riskier-than-you-think/id1753943662?i=1000703563228 🔗 Connect with Kristen: Website: https://kristenschimack.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenschimack/   9️⃣ #9 – Betsy Pepine Breaking Free: Overcoming Life’s Boxes Betsy Pepine explores the invisible boxes we inherit, accept, and enforce in our own lives. This episode challenges listeners to question expectations and redefine success on their own terms. 🎧 Listen to the episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/breaking-free-overcoming-lifes-boxes-with-betsy-pepine/id1753943662?i=1000695780954 🔗 Connect with Betsy: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/betsypepine Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betsypepine?igsh=Zm1sMWRhdDk3djB2 YouTube:  @BetsyPepine    8️⃣ #8 – Ruth E. Wilson Conquering Clouds: Wisdom, Adventure, and Spirit-Led Living Ruth E. Wilson brings a grounded and soulful perspective on adventure, intuition, and living in alignment. This conversation is for anyone feeling the pull toward something more meaningful. 🎧 Listen to the episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/conquering-clouds-wisdom-adventure-and-spirit-led/id1753943662?i=1000708288683 🔗 Connect with Ruth: Web: https://ruthewilson.com  Order her book Conquering Clouds - https://a.co/d/7Fe7Wlx  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ruth.wilson.54379  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthwilson6087/   7️⃣ #7 – Jen Aks The Body Knows: Reclaiming Confidence and Connection Jen Aks reminds us that healing is not just mental; it is physical. This episode explores somatic awareness and how reconnecting with the body can restore confidence, safety, and trust. 🎧 Listen to the episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-body-knows-reclaiming-confidence-connection/id1753943662?i=1000731759988 🔗 Connect with Jen: Free Gifts: The Power of Gesture®, my signature bodyset practice https://bonus.jenaks.com/into-to-the-power-video-page Complimentary Live Gesture Workshop - Every Tuesday at 11:00EST - https://book.jenaks.com/free-live-gesture-workshop-page 🔗 Website: https://jenaks.com/ 🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennferaks  🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jen_aks   📚 Grab her book Your Body is Speaking - Book page: https://yourbodyisspeaking.org/ 🎥 Watch her TEDx Talk: The Body’s Hidden Intelligence – From Mindset to Bodyset - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfZGY1mAbWs   6️⃣ #6 – Liz Potter Rewire Your Nervous System: Intuition and Energy Healing Liz Potter dives into nervous system regulation, intuition, and what it really takes to feel safe enough to expand. A favorite for listeners navigating stress, burnout, and growth. 🎧 Listen to the episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rewire-your-nervous-system-how-intuition-energy-healing/id1753943662?i=1000728004667 🔗 Connect with Liz: ✨ Bonus: Learn how Liz uses intuitive frequency reading to detect imbalances in the body—and why the “woo” and the science aren’t as far apart as you think. 🎧 If you’re a woman over 40 who feels stuck, scattered, or soul-tired… This episode is your wake-up call to regulate, reclaim, and rise. 📲 Work with Liz or learn more at https://lizpotterspiritmedium.com/   5️⃣ #5 – Becky Livingston If Not Now, When: Reclaiming Life Through Slow Living Becky Livingston shares a refreshing perspective on slowing down in a world that glorifies hustle. This episode invites listeners to reclaim their time, energy, and presence. 🎧 Listen to the episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/if-not-now-when-reclaiming-life-healing-through-slow/id1753943662?i=1000736232726 🔗 Connect with Becky: 🌍 Learn more at http://www.beckylivingston.com 📚 Read The Suitcase and the Jar: Travels with a Daughter’s Ashes - https://a.co/d/7q5iLbX 📱 Follow Becky on Socials Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beckylivingston23/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/vitaltraveljourneysforwomen 🌟 Special Offer (10% discount on a 1-hour consult) Journey Clarity Consult Link: https://buy.stripe.com/14k6qW4m13Zd7VCcMM Use Code: BADASS10   4️⃣ #4 – Jennifer Spor Burnout to Breakthrough: A Spiritual Awakening at Midlife Jennifer Spor delves into how burnout can transform into a pivotal moment instead of a stalemate. This conversation speaks to the woman who knows something has to change. 🎧 Listen to the episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/burnout-to-breakthrough-a-spiritual-awakening-at-midlife/id1753943662?i=1000704419024 🔗 Connect with Jennifer: Website Link: https://www.jenniferspor.com/ Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/JenniferSporCoaching Instagram Link: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer_spor/   3️⃣ #3 – Dana & Krisanna Rescued Hearts: How Horses’ Healing Love Changed Everything Dana and Krisanna share the deeply moving story behind Rescued Hearts. This episode explores grief, healing, and the extraordinary power of the horse-human connection. 🎧 Listen to the episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rescued-hearts-how-horses-healing-love-changed-everything/id1753943662?i=1000714622239 🔗 Connect with Rescued Hearts: 🌐 Website: https://www.rescuedheartsfilm.com  📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rescuedheartsfilm 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rescuedheartsfilm 🎥 YouTube: Live Wild Films    2️⃣ #2 – Erin Washington From Perfectionist to Purpose Erin Washington shares her journey from striving for perfection to living with intention. This episode resonated strongly with women ready to release control and trust themselves. 🎧 Listen to the episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/from-perfectionist-to-purpose-how-erin-washington-found/id1753943662?i=1000737211499 🔗 Connect with Erin: Podcast: thERINpy with Erin Washington https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/therinpy-with-erin-washington/id1530232466  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therinpy_with_erin_washington The Blue Butterfly Foundation Inc.: https://thebluebutterflies.org/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thERINpypodcast  Books: From Pain to Purpose: Finding Meaning in the Mess https://a.co/d/8Uj6xUc Squats and Margaritas: A Journey to Finding Balance https://a.co/d/ivcVhnd   🥇 #1 – Dianette Wells Another Step Up the Mountain: Adventure, Loss, and Living The most listened-to episode of 2025. Dianette Wells shares a powerful story of resilience, loss, and choosing to keep moving forward even when the path is uncertain. 🎧 Listen to the episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/another-step-up-the-mountain-adventure-loss-living/id1753943662?i=1000727011658 🔗 Connect with Dianette: Website: https://dianettewells.com/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DianetteWellsEnduranceAthlete  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dianettewells/  📖Get her Book: Another Step Up the Mountain - https://a.co/d/cK9Ovl6 ✨ Closing Note If this episode inspired you, share it with a woman who needs a reminder that it is not too late to choose herself. And if you are ready for more honest conversations, grounded wisdom, and bold midlife strategy, be sure to follow Midlife Strategies for Badass Women wherever you listen to podcasts.   FOLLOW and CONNECT Website - https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/ Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

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Midlife Strategies for Badass Women is the go-to podcast for bold, brilliant women over 40 who are done playing small and ready to reinvent their lives—without guilt, filters, or apologies. Hosted by Badass Midlife Strategist - Sue Willoughby, each weekly episode delivers unfiltered conversations, real stories of reinvention, and practical strategies to help you break free from the crap that’s holding you back and finally live life on your damn terms. Whether you’re navigating a midlife reset, rediscovering your passions, building confidence, or launching your next chapter—this podcast gives you the mindset shifts, clarity, and community to make it happen. 🔥 Expect: No-BS life advice and midlife strategies that actually work Inspiring interviews with women who’ve transformed their lives Soul-stirring solo episodes packed with truth and action Coaching-style episodes to help you reclaim your purpose, power, and passion This isn’t a podcast about “getting through” midlife. It’s about owning it—louder, wiser, bolder, and unapologetically YOU. Subscribe now and start rewriting the rules of what’s possible in your 40s, 50s, and beyond.

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