Health, Fitness & Personal Growth Tips for Women in Midlife: Asking for a Friend

Michele Henning Folan
  • 4.9 (85)
  • FITNESS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Are you ready to make the most of your midlife years but feel like your health isn't quite where it should be? Maybe menopause has been tough on you, and you're not sure how to get back on track with your fitness, nutrition, and overall well-being. Asking for a Friend is the podcast where midlife women get the answers they need to take control of their health and happiness. We bring in experts to answer your burning questions on fitness, wellness, and mental well-being, and share stories of women just like you who are stepping up to make this chapter of life their best yet. Hosted by Michele Folan, a health industry veteran with 26 years of experience, coach, mom, wife, and lifelong learner, Asking for a Friend is all about empowering you to feel your best—physically and mentally. It's time to think about the next 20+ years of your life: what do you want them to look like, and what steps can you take today to make that vision a reality? Tune in for honest conversations, expert advice, and plenty of humor as we navigate midlife together. Because this chapter? It's ours to own, and we’re not going quietly into it! Michele Folan is a certified nutrition coach with the FASTer Way program. If you would like to work with her to help you reach your health and fitness goals, sign up here:https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=MicheleFolanIf you have questions about her coaching program, you can email her at mfolanfasterway@gmail.com Sign up for Michele's weekly newsletter at: https://michelefolanfasterway.myflodesk.com/i6i44jw4fqThis podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. Some of the links shared in this podcast may be affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase through these links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products and services I truly believe in and that I feel may add value to your health journey. 

  1. 3D AGO

    Episode 200: The Pause - Why I’m Stepping Away (For Now)

    This is Episode 200—and one of the most meaningful conversations I’ve ever had with you. After four years, nearly 200 episodes, and a podcast that grew into the top 1.5% globally, I’m pressing pause on Asking for a Friend. This wasn’t a quick or easy decision. This podcast has been more than a platform—it’s been part of my identity. It’s been a space where we’ve had honest conversations about midlife, health, hormones, relationships, and the things women often keep to themselves. In this solo episode, I’m reflecting on what this journey has meant, what I’ve learned from you, and why I’m choosing to step into a new chapter. We talk about:  Why midlife conversations matter more than ever—and how far we’ve come  The power of speaking up about your health and advocating for yourself  What I’ve learned after coaching and connecting with hundreds of women  A major shift in my approach to nutrition, metabolism, and intermittent fasting  Why strength—not skinny—is the goal as we age  The reality of building something meaningful… and knowing when it’s time to pivot I also share what’s next for me, including a new venture with my husband in the nutrition space, and why I’m choosing to be more intentional with my time and energy moving forward. This isn’t necessarily goodbye—but it is a pause. If there’s one thing I hope you take from this episode, it’s this: You don’t settle. Not with your health, not with your body, and not with your life. We still have a few more shows to come, so stick around! Thank you for being part of this journey. Truly. _________________________________________ If you’re doing “all the right things” and still feel stuck, adding a layer of support may be an option. I’ve partnered with a trusted telehealth platform offering modern solutions for women in midlife—including micro-dosed GLP-1 and other peptide therapies. https://elliemd.com/michelefolan - Create a free account to view all products. Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/ ✨ Sign up for my weekly newsletter: https://michelefolanfasterway.myflodesk.com/i6i44jw4fq Like to connect? Email me at askingforafriendpodcast1@gmail.com  Transcripts are created with AI and may not be perfectly accurate. Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.

    17 min

  2. MAR 31

    Ep.199 Stop Shrinking in Midlife: Reclaim Your Voice, Body & Confidence | Angela Burk

    If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Is this all there is?”—this episode is for you. In this powerful conversation, Michele sits down with Angela Burk, author of The Real Girl’s Guide to Midlife, to unpack what’s really happening during midlife—and why it’s not a crisis, but a turning point. From hormonal shifts and identity loss to reclaiming your voice, your body, and your desires, Angela shares a refreshingly honest take on what it means to evolve in your 40s, 50s, and beyond. This episode dives into the emotional, physical, and psychological changes women experience—and how to stop shrinking, stop apologizing, and start living with intention. You’ll learn: Why midlife feels chaotic (and why that’s completely normal)The connection between hormones, mood, and identity shiftsHow to stop people-pleasing and start setting boundariesWhy strength—physical and emotional—is the foundation of longevityHow to let go of who you were and step into who you’re becomingSimple ways to reclaim your voice, energy, and confidenceThis isn’t about chasing your 30-year-old body.  It’s about building the life your 80-year-old self will thank you for becoming. 👉 If this episode resonates, share it with a friend who needs to hear it. We’re not meant to figure this out alone. You can find Angela Burk's book, The Real Girls Guide to Midlife, on Amazon and other booksellers. https://www.realgirlsguide55.com/ https://www.instagram.com/realgirlsguide55/ _________________________________________ If you’re doing “all the right things” and still feel stuck, adding a layer of support may be an option. I’ve partnered with a trusted telehealth platform offering modern solutions for women in midlife—including micro-dosed GLP-1 and other peptide therapies. https://elliemd.com/michelefolan - Create a free account to view all products. Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/ ✨ Sign up for my weekly newsletter: https://michelefolanfasterway.myflodesk.com/i6i44jw4fq Like to connect? Email me at askingforafriendpodcast1@gmail.com  Transcripts are created with AI and may not be perfectly accurate. Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.

    54 min

  3. MAR 24

    Ep.198 Narcissism Isn’t Always Obvious: How to Recognize It and Take Your Life Back

    Before you assume this episode isn’t for you—stick with me. Because narcissistic relationships don’t always look toxic on the surface. They often start off feeling too good to be true… and that’s exactly the problem. In this episode, I sit down with Melissa Rymer of the Victim to Warrior Method to break down what these relationships actually look like in real life—beyond the buzzwords. We talk about: Why narcissistic relationships often start like a fairy tale—and why that’s a red flagThe subtle signs: gaslighting, passive-aggressive comments, and slowly losing your confidenceThe difference between someone who’s difficult… and someone who is truly a narcissistWhy strong, capable women are often the ones who get pulled in What happens to your health—sleep, anxiety, burnout—when you stay too longHow to set boundaries (with a spouse, parent, or even a friend)Why you can’t “fix” the relationship—and what actually moves you forwardMelissa also shares her personal story of recognizing the pattern, navigating a difficult exit, and rebuilding her life—along with practical steps if you’re starting to question your own situation. If you’ve ever felt like something is off but couldn’t quite explain it… this conversation will put words to it. And if this isn’t you, there’s a good chance you know someone who needs to hear it. You can find Melissa Rymer at: https://bio.victimtowarriormethod.com/home https://www.instagram.com/v2w_victimtowarrior/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@v2wvictimtowarrior Are they a narcissist? Take the quiz: https://bio.victimtowarriormethod.com/are-they-a-narcissist _________________________________________ If you’re doing “all the right things” and still feel stuck, adding a layer of support may be an option. I’ve partnered with a trusted telehealth platform offering modern solutions for women in midlife—including micro-dosed GLP-1 and other peptide therapies. https://elliemd.com/michelefolan - Create a free account to view all products. Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/ ✨ Sign up for my weekly newsletter: https://michelefolanfasterway.myflodesk.com/i6i44jw4fq Like to connect? Email me at askingforafriendpodcast1@gmail.com  Transcripts are created with AI and may not be perfectly accurate. Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.

    1h 3m

  4. MAR 17

    Ep.197 The Gift of a Kidney: One Woman’s Journey Through Grief, Service, and Second Chances

    On this week’s episode of Asking for a Friend, Michele sits down with Cristina Fontana, registered nurse, health coach, living kidney donor, and author of Metamorphosis: The Gift of a Life Lived Twice. Cristina’s journey began with profound loss. When she was just nine years old, her father was diagnosed with kidney cancer—a moment that quietly planted the seed for a future she never imagined. Years later, after building a career in healthcare and raising a family, Cristina made the extraordinary decision to donate one of her kidneys to a complete stranger. In this powerful conversation, Cristina shares the deeply personal story behind that decision, what the donation process actually looks like, and how meeting the young man who received her kidney became one of the most meaningful moments of her life. But this episode goes far beyond organ donation. Cristina also opens up about navigating grief after losing her father at a young age, how loss shaped her perspective on time and purpose, and why she believes we all have the ability to transform hardship into something meaningful. Today, she continues that mission through her work as a health coach, author, and advocate for living kidney donation—while also climbing mountains around the world with other kidney donors to raise awareness and inspire others. This conversation is about resilience, service, and the powerful reminder that even the most difficult chapters of our lives can lead to extraordinary impact. Where to find Cristina Fontana and her book Metamorphosis: https://cristinafontanawellness.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/criselba.wellness/ Amazon: https://amzn.to/4sfociU _________________________________________ If you’re doing “all the right things” and still feel stuck, adding a layer of support may be an option. I’ve partnered with a trusted telehealth platform offering modern solutions for women in midlife—including micro-dosed GLP-1 and other peptide therapies. https://elliemd.com/michelefolan - Create a free account to view all products. Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/ ✨ Sign up for my weekly newsletter: https://michelefolanfasterway.myflodesk.com/i6i44jw4fq Like to connect? Email me at askingforafriendpodcast1@gmail.com  Transcripts are created with AI and may not be perfectly accurate. Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.

    49 min

  5. MAR 10

    Ep.196 Hidden Toxins in Your Home: Endocrine Disruptors, Glyphosate & Low-Tox Living

    After nearly 200 episodes of Asking for a Friend, I realized something surprising—we had never taken a deep dive into environmental toxins and low-tox living. So I went straight to the source. In this episode, I’m joined by Dr. Rachel Marynowski and Carly Egoavil, the doctors behind Kale Blossom and creators of the Ask Nook app, a tool designed to help consumers identify hidden toxins in everyday products. We unpack the confusing world of chemicals in our homes, food, and personal care products—and more importantly, what actually matters versus what’s just noise. This conversation focuses on practical awareness, not perfection. If you’ve ever wondered about endocrine disruptors, glyphosate, fragrances, or chemicals in household products, this episode will help you think differently about the things you use every day. In this episode we discuss: The reality of 80,000+ chemicals in commerce and how few are tested for long-term safetyThe most common endocrine disruptors found in household and personal care productsHow glyphosate and pesticides show up in everyday foodsWhy fragrance chemicals, plastics, and household cleaners may impact hormone healthThe biggest toxin exposures in the home (and simple swaps that actually matter)Why low-tox living shouldn’t be about fear or perfectionThe story behind the Ask Nook app and how it helps consumers evaluate productsIf you care about hormone health, longevity, and reducing toxic exposure without going crazy, you will love this episode. Because at the end of the day, it’s not about perfection—it’s about making smarter choices where they matter most. Connect with Kale Blossom Kale Blossom: https://kaleblossom.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kale.blossom Ask Nook App: Available on the Apple App Store _________________________________________ If you’re doing “all the right things” and still feel stuck, adding a layer of support may be an option. I’ve partnered with a trusted telehealth platform offering modern solutions for women in midlife—including micro-dosed GLP-1 and other peptide therapies. https://elliemd.com/michelefolan - Create a free account to view all products. Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/ ✨ Sign up for my weekly newsletter: https://michelefolanfasterway.myflodesk.com/i6i44jw4fq Like to connect? Email me at askingforafriendpodcast1@gmail.com  Transcripts are created with AI and may not be perfectly accurate. Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.

    40 min

  6. MAR 3

    Ep.195 “Normal Isn’t Optimal”: Hormones, Heart Disease, Thyroid & Midlife Lab Blind Spots

    Have you ever been told your labs are “normal” — but you don’t feel normal? In this episode, I sit down with integrative and functional medicine physician Aaron Hartman, author of Uncurable, to unpack the dangerous gap between normal and optimal — especially for women in midlife. We cover: What lab reference ranges really meanThe cardiovascular markers every woman should know (hs-CRP, LDL particle number, Lp(a), ApoB, homocysteine)Why LDL alone is outdated thinkingThyroid testing beyond TSH (free T3, free T4, reverse T3, antibodies)Ferritin, B12, iodine & nutrient blind spotsEstrogen, progesterone & testosterone — when to start and what actually protects your brain and heartStatins, diabetes risk, and mitochondrial healthGut health, inflammation & autoimmune triggersWhy lifestyle is foundational — and where advanced longevity tools fit inDr. Hartman explains how heart disease begins decades before symptoms appear, why hormone replacement therapy dramatically reduces risk when used appropriately, and how women can advocate for themselves in a system that often dismisses midlife symptoms. If you care about your brain, your bones, your heart — and living strong into your 80s and 90s — this conversation is essential. Did you miss something? Check out the transcripts of the episode! You can find Aaron Hartman, MD at https://richmondfunctionalmedicine.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/aaronhartmanmd/ His book, Uncurable: From Hopeless Diagnosis to Defying All Odds, is available where you buy books.  _________________________________________ If you’re doing “all the right things” and still feel stuck, adding a layer of support may be an option. I’ve partnered with a trusted telehealth platform offering modern solutions for women in midlife—including micro-dosed GLP-1 and other peptide therapies. https://elliemd.com/michelefolan - Create a free account to view all products. Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/ ✨ Sign up for my weekly newsletter: https://michelefolanfasterway.myflodesk.com/i6i44jw4fq Like to connect? Email me at askingforafriendpodcast1@gmail.com  Transcripts are created with AI and may not be perfectly accurate. Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.

    1h 4m

  7. FEB 24

    Ep.194 Stop Wasting Money on Skincare: What Actually Matters After 50

    We spend a lot of time and money chasing better skin. But what actually matters after 50? In this episode of Asking for a Friend, I sit down with board-certified dermatologist Dr. Brooke Jeffy for a practical, no-nonsense conversation about midlife skin health. We focus on what truly moves the needle: • The non-negotiables of an effective skincare routine  • Retinol vs. tretinoin — do you need a prescription?  • Sunscreen myths and why protection still matters decades later  • What early melanoma can look like — and why vigilance matters  • Hair loss in menopause and what actually helps We also discuss Korean Beauty (K-Beauty) and why this segment is intriguing to Brooke. Dr. Jeffy also shares how her own recent melanoma diagnosis has reshaped her perspective on prevention and patient care. This episode isn’t about 12-step routines or viral trends. It’s about protecting your skin, making smarter decisions, and avoiding expensive hype. Because midlife skin health isn’t just cosmetic, it’s preventative. You can find Dr. Brooke Jeffy at https://www.brookejeffymd.com/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/brookejeffymd/ Dr. Jeffy's teen skincare line, bwtn, can be found at https://www.instagram.com/meetbtwn/ Her favorite eye cream can be purchased at https://retrouve.com/https://retrouve.com/ _________________________________________ If you’re doing “all the right things” and still feel stuck, adding a layer of support may be an option. I’ve partnered with a trusted telehealth platform offering modern solutions for women in midlife—including micro-dosed GLP-1 and other peptide therapies. https://elliemd.com/michelefolan - Create a free account to view all products. Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/ ✨ Sign up for my weekly newsletter: https://michelefolanfasterway.myflodesk.com/i6i44jw4fq Like to connect? Email me at askingforafriendpodcast1@gmail.com  Transcripts are created with AI and may not be perfectly accurate. Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.

    55 min

  8. FEB 17

    Ep.193 You’re Not Done Yet: Finding Courage, Confidence & Reinvention in Midlife

    Midlife can feel destabilizing. The kids are leaving. Careers are shifting. Parents are aging. Hormones are changing. And somewhere inside, a quiet voice says, “I’m not done yet.” In this conversation, Michele sits down with fellow podcaster Kim Benoy, host of Midlife Courage: Flourishing After 40, to explore what courage actually looks like in the second half of life. After a 27-year nursing career, Kim made a bold pivot — not because she had everything figured out, but because she felt called to something more. Together, they unpack: Why confidence doesn’t come before action — it comes from itThe hidden identity shifts women experience in midlifeWhy losing weight won’t fix what’s happening internallyThe power of small acts of courage (setting boundaries, speaking up, trying something new)How community accelerates confidenceWhy “someday” is not a strategyThis isn’t about Instagram quotes or overnight reinvention. It’s about quiet bravery. Tiny steps. And remembering that you don’t need permission to evolve. If you’ve been feeling restless, stuck, or quietly unhappy — this conversation will remind you that courage is already in you. It just needs to be activated. Join Kim's next Midlife with Courage Community Circle - March 3, 2026 You can find Kim Benoy at https://www.midlifewithcourage.com/podcast https://www.instagram.com/midlife_with_courage/ _________________________________________ If you’re doing “all the right things” and still feel stuck, adding a layer of support may be an option. I’ve partnered with a trusted telehealth platform offering modern solutions for women in midlife—including micro-dosed GLP-1 and other peptide therapies. https://elliemd.com/michelefolan - Create a free account to view all products. Follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/askingforafriend_pod/ ✨ Sign up for my weekly newsletter: https://michelefolanfasterway.myflodesk.com/i6i44jw4fq Like to connect? Email me at askingforafriendpodcast1@gmail.com  Transcripts are created with AI and may not be perfectly accurate. Disclaimer: This podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your qualified healthcare provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.

    39 min
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About

Are you ready to make the most of your midlife years but feel like your health isn't quite where it should be? Maybe menopause has been tough on you, and you're not sure how to get back on track with your fitness, nutrition, and overall well-being. Asking for a Friend is the podcast where midlife women get the answers they need to take control of their health and happiness. We bring in experts to answer your burning questions on fitness, wellness, and mental well-being, and share stories of women just like you who are stepping up to make this chapter of life their best yet. Hosted by Michele Folan, a health industry veteran with 26 years of experience, coach, mom, wife, and lifelong learner, Asking for a Friend is all about empowering you to feel your best—physically and mentally. It's time to think about the next 20+ years of your life: what do you want them to look like, and what steps can you take today to make that vision a reality? Tune in for honest conversations, expert advice, and plenty of humor as we navigate midlife together. Because this chapter? It's ours to own, and we’re not going quietly into it! Michele Folan is a certified nutrition coach with the FASTer Way program. If you would like to work with her to help you reach your health and fitness goals, sign up here:https://www.fasterwaycoach.com/?aid=MicheleFolanIf you have questions about her coaching program, you can email her at mfolanfasterway@gmail.com Sign up for Michele's weekly newsletter at: https://michelefolanfasterway.myflodesk.com/i6i44jw4fqThis podcast is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional healthcare services, including the giving of medical advice. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions. Some of the links shared in this podcast may be affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase through these links, I may receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products and services I truly believe in and that I feel may add value to your health journey. 

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