Dear Midlife..‪.‬ Shelby Bybee and Trinity Greenfield

What if we gave you permission to eat whatever you wanted to? Would you find it difficult  to reprogram that little voice inside my head saying "put down the cookie?" Lol. You know, over the decades, women have been fed a LOT of negative body image narratives. We are forced to believe that our worth centers around looking thin, having a perfect figure, or is equated to a number on the scale. Raise your hand if you've ever felt pressure to eat a certain way and look a certain way and if YOU associate YOUR self-worth to "Thinness"! 

If you feel this way YOU ARE NOT ALONE. Our guest today, Elizabeth Harris, states that girls as young as 3 have been shown to be aware of their body image. She is here to teach us that there is truly a better way. Elizabeth is a registered dietitian, certified Intuitive Eating counselor, speaker, entrepreneur, and co-host of the podcast Wellness Rebranded. She’s passionate about empowering people to drop out of diet culture and reimagine their relationship with food, movement, and their bodies so they can prioritize their whole health with Intuitive Eating, gentle nutrition, and body image healing.

Elizabeth’s motto is “self-care, not self-control.” Because food is meant to be enjoyed, movement should make you happy, and we’ve all got better things to do than counting carbs or calories! This is sooo true, Elizabeth! Please teach us!! I mean, she even calls the practice of intuitive eating a self-care framework.

Well, we all know that's where we both fall down on the job! lol Let's be honest, Shelby, is notoriously bad at self-care practices. And, well...Trinity loves herself so much that she's willing to eat an entire box of Girl Scout cookies to prove it. Lol But, Elizabeth shows us that this is NOT self-care or intuitive eating either. Instead, initiative eating IS  living in atunement with your body and is a blend of instinct, emotion and thought.

In this episode, Elizabeth teaches us:



Intuitive eating is a blend of instinct, emotion, and thoughts and would be what eating were like if diet culture didn't exist and we listened to our bodies instead.



Guilt is not a food group, we all have a right to eat things we enjoy. One of the principles of Intuitive Eating is to have unconditional permission to eat any food you want in atunement with your body and it's cues.



Diet culture is a pressure to eat a certain way, exercise a certain way and look a certain way so that we begin to equate self-worth with the way we look and health with being thin. These are false narratives we need to let go of.



Intuitive eating starts with examining your own relationship with food. "Challenge your own food police". What are the rules that you follow when it comes to food. Making a list of these rules when they pop into your head can give you an understanding of this relationship



The first step to implementing an intuitive eating philosophy is to start by setting up a consistent eating schedule by eating your meals at the same time every day. In this way you'll become more aware of fullness and hunger cues.



For more of Elizabeth:

Website | elizabethharrisnutrition.com

Facebook | elizabethharrisnutrition 

And we loved this conversation because life in the middle is also a blend of instinct, emotion, and thought and we believe these drive not just EATING but, literally, everything we do. How are you feeling about your life these days? Have you ever felt stuck, like you don't know who you are anymore? If the answer is yes...you're not alone! Meet us in "The Middle" at dearmidlife.com to join our community for women in midlife just like you. Here you can build connection and find space to be honored where you are! 

Whooo wee! Our next guest brings the heat! And when I say "heat" I'm talking about the one and only "Hot Flash Mama", Pamela Mitchell. Pam is the Host of Hot Flash Mama Podcast and an expert on all things menopause because, where most women go through menopause once, Pam has been through it TWICE. You see, the 1st time she was unintentionally forced into menopause was due to medically prescribed use of synthetic hormones, and now (again) naturally at 54. Needless to say, she's got some tea to spill on why this happened and how to balance and normalize menopausal symptoms naturally.

She is incredibly passionate about helping women that are going through menopause and that are wanting to slow the aging process! Pamela is a Certified Nutritional Counselor and has been in the Natural Health industry for over 25 years, specializing in anti-aging and women's health.

Girl...have you snapped at your partner or kids lately and thought....wow! who the hell was THAT woman? Or maybe you can't seem to remember ANYTHING! Or if you wake up in the middle of the night and you're soaking wet...Or if you can't sleep at all...We hate to say it, but you are probably in menopause! But, the good news is that you CAN do something about it.

In this episode, Pam teaches us:



Some prescribed forms of birth control can send women into a "simulated" and premature menopause. So, ladies pay attention to your body, energy and moods. It may not be a mental health issue. Your hormones may simply be out of balance



Saliva is the best way to test your hormones because it can provide the most current data about your hormone levels and where you are currently in your cycle. Ideally, you're testing between days 19-21 in your cycle



If you're experiencing symptoms or not, a progesterone cream will help you navigate the perimenopausal/post-menopausal effects of declining hormones. (ask for links for saliva tests or other products). When applying, be sure to sync to a "cycle" (or would be cycle), and look for those products brands that give you this guidance.



Listen to your body and pay attention to your symptoms. While tests can provide a benchmark for health and start you on the right path, you know your own body best. The symptoms are your tell tale sign if the measures you're taking are working or not.



Try one thing at a time. If you try everything at once, it is difficult to know what is or is not working. And remember...you don't have to suffer!



To find more of Pamela:

IG | @hotflashmamapodcast

Hot Flash Mama Podcast

And if you're out there listening, please know you don't have to go on this journey alone. We're here every week to support you and we want to give a shout out to Toniy Douglas who left us a 5-star review on Apple podcast and stated "This podcast is a must listen because the two hosts, Shelby and Trinity, are so relatable. They aren't preaching or pretending; they are two real women who show their strength through their vulnerability and life experience. The podcast does a great job of creating a space for its guests to share their journey which, in turn, helps us gain insights into OUR journey. The show's topics vary greatly, but each episode has some humor, information, and most of all some heart. If you are on a journey through midlife, this one is a keeper on your podcast rotation!"

Thank you Toniy for your kind words of support. It takes a lot of work to publish this show each week and we appreciate knowing that the content we're putting out into the universe is making an impact on our listeners. So, if you're loving this show, make sure you're suscribed to the podcast. Please take the time to provide a 5-star review like Toniy. Toniy...THIS review was the catalyst we needed to keep going and we can't tell you how much we appreciate you!

We also give a shout out to Belladeb, who reached out to us with her song "Midlife Crisis", which is found on Spotify!

And if you don't want to do the middle alone...visit our we

This episode was fascinating. I think we learned more in this one podcast than maybe any other conversation we've had. Dr. John Neustadt has an international reputation as a Doctor, researcher, and integrative medical expert on the topic of Osteoporosis. He became renowned in his field through his nutritional medicine research, clinical work, books he wrote, and his work with the FDA on evaluating the use of natural products for the potential treatment of rare diseases. He has developed million-dollar businesses, educated physicians on improving patient outcomes and the general public on how to make sure they’re getting the care they need and the results they want, and now has his own line of supplements to treat the adverse effects of Osteoporosis.

Dr. Neustadt has published more than 100 medical articles, written four health and wellness books and is now a #1 Amazon Best Selling Author in the field of Osteoporosis. His most recent book is, Fracture-Proof Your Bones: A Comprehensive Guide to Osteoporosis.

We love the fact that Dr. Neustadt is working to educate other physicians on using functional medicine with their patients. Dr. J (as we like to call him) is a highly sought out speaker at medical conferences he was recognized as one of the Top Ten Cited Authors in the world for his work. Over the years he has specialized in hard-to-treat, chronic degenerative diseases through an integrative approach that emphasizes identifying and correcting the underlying causes of disease. AND He was the first naturopathic doctor to be voted Best Doctor among all physicians in his area. When the award was announced, the local newspaper stated: “It is noteworthy that Dr. Neustadt did not win ‘best naturopathic doctor;’ he won best doctor.

Today, he is the Founder and President of Nutritional Biochemistry, Inc. (NBI). And let me tell you what...this man, genuinely, want to heal people and educate the general public (and doctors) how to ensure quality care is provided and received.

In this episode Dr. J teaches us:



Osteoporosis is a disease in which the degenerative forces are "winning" and outpacing your body's ability to build new bone. Essentially, you're losing bone density at a faster pace that new bone can be rebuilt, increasing your likelihood of fracture.



The bone is a living and dynamic tissue and there are things what we can to build the bone back up and reverse osteoporosis. We also have to be weary of what breaks bone down.



A bone density test is the primary test modern doctors use to measure of the effects of osteoporosis today and the only tool most doctors speak to their patients about. However, new research reflects that the dangers of osteoporosis largely occur due to factors other than loss of density.



Many medications we are prescribed today weaken our bones and put us at risk for osteoporosis. These medications include those that treat depression and acid blockers. It is recommended you read the inserts that come with your prescribed medications or ask the pharmacist to see if there is an osteoporosis related side effect.



The mediterranean diet has been shown to reduce the risk for osteoporosis by 20% and reduce hip fractures by 21%, the most dangerous type of fracture. With every forkful of food you are either feeding the disease or improving your health.



Dr. John has a mission and so do we! We want you to be the best version of yourself. That means we want you to be strong and healthy so you can rock midlife! THIS Is your time! And we want to give you the tools and resources to get unstuck and create your best life ever. So, go to our website at Dearmidlife.com and join our community!

 Find more of Dr. Neustadt:

Website | nbihealth.com

LinkedIn | john-neustadt-nd

 Instagram | @JohnNeustadt

Have you ever stood on the verge of making a big decision that you knew would change your life forever? We can think of only a handful of moments like this is in our lives...when it came to shifting jobs or, perhaps, saying "yes" to marriage...deciding to leave our marriages (lol). These moments are pivotal and, to be honest, we wish we were brave enough to take more of these leaps in life!

Today our guest, Laura Ericson, did just that. One day, she found herself with her finger hovering over the "send" button on her computer hesitating only briefly before sending a communication that would forever change her life. Today, Laura is living the life of her dreams as a female nomad and travel influencer to thousands of followers. She's got some serious mojo when it comes to globe-trotting after having played travel guide to over 150 people across 7 countries. She's practically the Pied Piper of travelers, leading her loyal following to exotic destinations while dropping wisdom bombs along the way.

That's not just a vacation; that's a movement! And her mantra? "Just do it. Make it happen. No regrets. Laura loves travel because it provides perspective. Traveling opens your eyes to the struggles and triumphs of people worldwide, making you appreciate the heck out of your own situation. Laura inspires us so much with her life's too short attitude. We're seriously ready to grab my passport, pack my bags, and go! Who's in?!

But, Laura reminds us that it is also about the journey sometimes and she puts out the rallying cry for camaraderie. Her trips bring people together and create connections that may not have otherwise occurred, reminding us that we don't have to go it alone on this crazy journey called life. Laura's reminds us to find your tribe and to embrace adventure.

Life's too short for solo missions. And Laura's living proof that age ain't nothing but a number. Divorce might feel like the end of the world, but she's here to remind us that it's just the beginning of a new chapter, baby! She is like a beacon of hope, shining a light on the endless possibilities that await those brave enough to take the leap.

In this episode, Laura teaches us: 



Just do it. Make it happen. No regrets. You'll miss out on a lot of lessons in life if you don't just take a leap sometimes.



Focus on what you DO have, instead of what you don't. Traveling can offer you perspective on the struggles and challenges that so many face around the world. Appreciate where you are and what you have.



You don't have to do life alone. There are always people out there to go along for the ride, to do the "thing" with you, to take the adventure, to support your dreams. Find your people.



Life goes on! You still have opportunity to live. No matter your age. Divorce may feel like a death. But, there is so much more life to live!



To find more of Laura:

website | lauraericson.com

info@lauraericson.com

Instagram | @lolawhiskey

To all you listeners out there, what are you waiting for? Embrace the unknown, seize the day, and let's make some damn memories! If you're looking to level up your life and find your tribe go to our website dearmidlife.com. Join our community of like minded women and let's do life in the middle together.

You know, we spend so much of our lives taking care of other people. Many of us are parents and raise and nurture our children. Many of us are not parents, but we care for and nurture spouses, parents, neighbors, and colleagues. Caring for others feels instinctive to women. However, we rarely take the time or have the inclination to care for our own social or emotional needs.

So true! It is especially this time in midlife when women long for more emotional depth, connection, and closeness in their relationships with their older children, female friendships, and intimate partners. And yet, if you're like us....we have struggled in so many ways to cultivate the kind of relationships that really feel nourishing and mutually fulfilling. If you're also feeling this way, our guest today, Deb Blum, reminds us that building deep and meaningful relationships with others ALWAYS starts with our relationship to ourselves. 

Deb teaches us how to use EVERYTHING that happens in life as a way to learn more about ourselves. If we pay attention to our triggers or gaps, we can see reflected back to us those places where we are still not accepting ourselves, where we are defensive, or otherwise resisting ourselves, others, or life.  These idiosyncrocies often stem back to our childhood and the way we've interpreted and internalized certain occurrences or consistent messaging from our caretakers.

Deb is an expert in reparenting our inner child. She guides her clients to understanding and learning to relate to their emotional triggers in a much more self-compassionate and self-aware way. She advocates a hand to heart technique in which we can all speak to our inner child in a way that evokes a renewed sense of calm and safety so that our protector parts can become less vigilant over time allowing our true self to emerge.

Her approach helps us to learn more about what we need what our inner child needs, especially when we really don't even think we have needs or don't know what we need. And THEN the magic happens because when we learn how to start bringing ourselves more into our lives - we can then also start to bring our opinions about little things like what to eat for dinner, what movie to watch and, ultimately, find our voice for the larger more important things in life...

We have long recognized the fact that women in midlife have gotten lost somewhere along the way. Maybe we've allowed the past to override our voice. Or, perhaps, we've just given ourselves over to so many other priorities that we've lost ourselves along the way. But, NOW is your time to find yourself and your voice. Deb says her goal is to remove all of the barriers to love so that she eventually becomes love in its fullest and purest form! I think that is so beautiful and if you are in this place and space and don't know where to start, go to our website dearmidlife.com and tap into the resources we have available for you there.

In this episode, Deb teaches us...



When we are young, do to conditioning or parenting, we are taught that who we are is not "good" or "right" and, as a result, turn away from our authentic selves to become who we believe mommy or daddy want us to be. As an adult, it becomes difficult to break out of those patterns because these were our survival patterns



We have many "parts" that live within us. There is the adult self, the protector, the inner child and even a higher self. Oftentimes, the person we believe we are is truly a protector part masquerading as an adult.



Put your hand on your heart and you speak to yourself with compassion, in the way you would speak to a good friend. This motion will build a connection to self and demonstrate that you are there to give your inner child a voice.



When doing parts work, there are many possible parts that live within you. Meet the one that is there and meet them where they are.



There are also shadows that live within you. Although the shadow self can include negative impulses, su

Our guest today, Lynne Golodner did something brave and bold. She pursued her dreams and stepped into the role of author, writing coach, marketing entrepreneur and host of the Make Meaning Podcast. Lynne writes emotional novels with compelling Jewish characters who are determined to fill their lives with passion, purpose and love.

That's right! so many of us have these dreams or beliefs that we are meant for more, but are too afraid to pursue them. We allow our own internal negative narratives to hold us back. But, in this episode, Lynne encourages us to live lives of passion and purpose, just like the strong female characters in her novel. 

Lynne's first novel, Woman of Valor, debuted on September 26, 2023 and is a story about the courage to love the ordinary and seek satisfaction where you are, while shedding the need to please others. Lynne draws from her life experience as an Orthodox Jew for ten years to allow the reader a glimpse into what that world looks like. 

Lynne is an inspiration not only in her ability to help others become better writers, but also in her life experiences and own personal career pivots. Lynne found the courage to launch her own business as a single mom, utilize her skills and ultimately, embrace what she's always wanted to do, become a writer, and find success! 

Lynne has worked hard to hone her writing skills and has had the courage to decide that writing is what she wants to focus on in the future. She is no longer going to listen to those who say she won't make any money at it and she has moved past her own self-doubt to set a goal of publishing a book a year moving forward and she's been featured on Character Development, The Book Marketing Action Podcast, Savvy Social podcast and in a number of other outlets.

In today's episode, Lynne teaches us;


 Become a perpetual student.
Allow yourself to pursue creative endeavors.
Follow your dreams and do the "thing" (whatever that thing is for you). Do it messy and then...make it better. Don't wait for perfection to get started.
Explore the "what-ifs" or the "worst case scenarios" that live in our brain and prevent us from moving forward to step into our purpose. You may just find that these are not as scary as you think!
Find your people! Whether you want to write a book or pursue another endeavor, find the people and community to support you.

To find more of Lynne:

Website | lynnegolodner.com

Instagram | @lynnegolodner

Twitter.com | @YourPeople

Facebook | @lynnegolodner

LinkedIn | @lynnegolodner

So, here's the thing, ladies. If Lynne can do it...so can you. It is NEVER too late to define and pursue the life of your dreams. It is TIME to step into your purpose and we're here to help you. Go to our website at dearmidlife.com and join our community. There you will find so many tools and resources to help you reclaim who you are and figure out who in the hell you want to become.