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? ICF Life & Confidence coach Sharon Wilkes-Burt takes you through the identity crises, the confidence wobbles, and the downright weirdness of life in messy middle with journal prompts, real talk, and a generous splash of radical kindness. If life feels like an unfinished book, let’s scribble in the margins together.

  1. 5d ago

    Why the menopause conversation is incomplete - With Jodie Allsopp Studley

    In this engaging conversation, Sharon Wilkes-Burt and Jodie Allsopp Studley delve into the complexities of midlife, exploring themes of self-discovery, creativity, and the challenges of parenting. Jodie shares her unique approach to journaling through visual art, contrasting it with traditional written diaries. They discuss the expectations of youth versus the realities of adulthood, the importance of visualization in achieving goals, and Jodie's journey from dental therapy to naturopathy. The conversation highlights the significance of adventure in life and the role of mentors in navigating challenges. In this conversation, Jodie Allsopp Studley shares her journey through motherhood, personal loss, and the challenges of self-discovery. She emphasizes the importance of resilience, health, and the value of life experiences in shaping one's identity. The discussion highlights the need for support and mentorship, especially during times of change and uncertainty, and the significance of trusting oneself amidst life's challenges. In this conversation, Sharon Wilkes-Burt and Jodie Allsopp Studley explore the evolving landscape of personal development for women, particularly in midlife. They discuss the importance of understanding hormonal changes, the need for community support, and the significance of self-care and communication. The dialogue emphasizes the necessity of breaking the silence around menopause and encourages women to embrace their voices and experiences. The Glow Deeper Retreat is a one-day, in-person experience for women ready to sit with themselves properly — no "manifest your best life" fluff, just structured, guided space to actually reflect. We start with a hands-on makeup workshop — unhurried, no pressure to "get it right," just a gentle way in. Then we move into the journalling and reflective work this podcast is built on: the same questions I ask my guests every episode, except this time i  Thank you 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 @theglowupguide_au or visit sharonwilkesburt.com for more resources and support. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you’re enjoying the journey so far!

    Why the menopause conversation is incomplete - With Jodie Allsopp Studley

  2. Aug 30

    Capturing the NOW with Anna Debenedictis

    The childhood message that you are not enough can follow you for decades - until one crisis forces you to rewrite the whole story.  Sharon Wilkes-Burt sits down with photographer and creative Anna Debenedictis for a deeply personal conversation about friendship wounds, identity, motherhood, and the unexpected path back to yourself. Anna shares the moments that shaped her, from being the youngest child in a traditional Italian family in Montreal to chasing big dreams in New York, studying photography at the Fashion Institute of Technology, and building a life across Canada, the U.S., England, Ireland, and Australia. Along the way, she opens up about the teenage friendship betrayal that still echoes in her life, the pressure to shrink herself, and the years of putting everyone else first. You'll discover:   Why the first heartbreak for many women comes from friends, not romance  How Anna learned to trust her ambition, even when the world around her did not  What happened when marriage, motherhood, and identity collided  Why IVF, a health scare, and a surprise pregnancy changed everything  How her photography business became a way to preserve the family memories she once longed to be part of  Sharon and Anna also unpack the quiet emotional cost of being the dependable one - the one who smiles, performs, and holds everything together while falling apart on the inside. By the end, Anna’s story becomes something bigger than one woman’s journey. It’s a reminder that reinvention is possible, that motherhood is not “just” anything, and that the version of you from before the world told you who to be might still be waiting to come forward.Essential listening if you’ve ever felt lost in a life transition, outgrown an old identity, or needed a reminder that the messiest chapters can become the most meaningful. Guests Anna Debenedictis is a photographer and mother known for turning family moments into legacy images, shaped by a life lived across multiple countries and a personal journey through reinvention, loss, and self-discovery. Find more of Anna's work at https://www.instagram.com/thelifestylephodographer/ https://thelifestylephodographer.com.au/ Chapters 00:00 Introduction and overview of Anna's journey 01:14 Unraveling the concept of life's many unravelings 02:32 Discovering Anna's teenage self and dreams 04:11 The impact of friendship and heartbreak at 16 07:03 Anna's early influences and childhood in Montreal 11:17 Moving to New York and pursuing dance and photography 21:12 The importance of friendship and family in her life 25:44 Motherhood in her 30s and 40s 36:14 The unraveling of marriage and starting anew 41:43 The point where the wheels fell off 43:29 Hiding feelings and inner struggles 50:14 The shift to legacy and memory keeping 55:18 Advice to young Anna and reflections on authenticity  Thank you 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 @theglowupguide_au or visit sharonwilkesburt.com for more resources and support. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you’re enjoying the journey so far!

    Capturing the NOW with Anna Debenedictis

  3. Aug 23

    Amy Jacobson on Shrinking, Showing Up & Sitting in Discomfort

    Amy Jacobson built a career reading human behaviour for a living, but it took a corporate exit at 40, a skeptical husband, and a full-blown midlife reckoning before she turned that skill on herself. In this episode, Amy takes us through the decades: the bullied teenager who's since made peace with those years, the 20-something so desperate to fit in she made choices she's not proud of, the exhausted 30-something juggling mum guilt and other women's judgement, and the 40-something who finally realised her husband, kids and business aren't more important than her... just as important. We talk imposter syndrome in someone whose literal job is emotional intelligence, why she still doesn't call herself an author despite two Wiley-published books, and her advice for anyone stuck in their own version of "is this it?": stop problem-solving for five minutes and ask what's actually triggering you. KEY TOPICS: Amy's teenage years and self-perception The role of resilience and choices in adolescence Midlife crisis and redefining success The impact of menopause on identity The importance of curiosity and self-awareness CHAPTERS: 00:00 Introduction to Unraveling the Diary of a Midlife Mess 01:12 The Journey of Self-Discovery Through Different Life Stages 10:53 Navigating the Twenties: Aspirations and Identity 17:45 The Blur of Motherhood in the Thirties 24:51 Judgment and Identity in Motherhood 31:07 Personal Growth Through Entrepreneurship in the Forties 34:36 The Journey of Self-Trust 37:00 Navigating Menopause and Identity 39:33 Slowing Down: A Hard Lesson 43:05 The Power of Human Stories 49:34 Curiosity and Unraveling 55:10 Embracing Uncertainty and Self-Compassion 01:01:40 Journaling as a Tool for Reflection 01:03:08 Advice to My Younger Self https://amyjacobson.com.au/books/ https://www.instagram.com/amyjacobson_ei/  Thank you 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 @theglowupguide_au or visit sharonwilkesburt.com for more resources and support. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you’re enjoying the journey so far!

    Amy Jacobson on Shrinking, Showing Up & Sitting in Discomfort

  4. Aug 9

    When Imposter Syndrome Buys A Bus - With Sonia Bell

    In this engaging interview, Sonia Bell shares her journey through life's pivotal moments, from childhood curiosities to becoming a dedicated teacher and lifelong learner. Discover how her experiences with family, education, and self-discovery shaped her into the inspiring woman she is today. Sonia Bell shares her inspiring journey from teaching challenges to creating a mobile classroom business that supports homeschooling and children with special needs. Discover her insights on resilience, system reform, and empowering families. Chapters 02:50 The Journey of Self-Discovery Through Journaling 05:57 Reflections on Childhood and Family Dynamics 08:58 Aspirations and Influences: The Path to Teaching 12:01 The Impact of Teachers and Memorable Experiences 14:54 The Struggles of Young Adulthood and Relationships 18:06 Understanding Neurodivergence and Personal Growth 24:51 Sonia's Unique Path to Education 27:29 Reinventing Life in the Thirties 36:03 Navigating the Challenges of Teaching 39:23 The Impact of Motherhood and Advocacy 46:57 The Evolution of Teaching and Its Challenges 48:37 The Challenges of Traditional Teaching 50:02 Breaking Free from the System 52:27 Creating a New Educational Model 54:18 Helping Students with Unique Needs 56:24 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 57:31 The Unraveling Moment 01:01:15 Building a Unique Educational Service 01:04:27 Becoming Braver and More Confident 01:09:28 Showing Up for Yourself 01:11:47 Advice to My Younger Self  key  topics Childhood influences and early education Life challenges and resilience during divorce Discovering neurodivergence and embracing identity Balancing motherhood, education, and personal growth The impact of teachers and mentors on Sonia’s life Self-awareness and the journey to authenticity Personal journey from teaching to entrepreneurship Creating a mobile classroom for homeschooling and special needs Overcoming systemic challenges in education Empowering families and children with medical needs Building confidence and trust in oneself www.thetouringteacher.com.au Email: learn@thetouringteacher.com.au https://www.instagram.com/thetouringteacherperth/  Thank you 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 @theglowupguide_au or visit sharonwilkesburt.com for more resources and support. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you’re enjoying the journey so far!

    When Imposter Syndrome Buys A Bus - With Sonia Bell

  5. Aug 2

    Mentors, Migration and the Madness of Menopause with Michelle Heslop

    More than just laughs, this episode reveals how life's wildest journeys—from childhood antics to international adventures—shape who we become. Michelle shares stories from her unforgettable teen years growing up in South Shields, her wild adventures in Greece, and how her relentless drive turned a tiny salon into a thriving business, all while juggling family, friendship, and her quest for self-discovery. Discover how her entrepreneurial spirit, resilience, and unshakeable positivity propelled her through the chaos, highlighting lessons many women face but rarely talk about: the unraveling of identity during perimenopause, navigating loss, and the importance of self-care at any age.  You'll hear how the law of attraction, a healthy dose of naivety, and sheer persistence led her to Australia—a chapter that marked both a physical and emotional migration.In this candid conversation, Michelle and Sharon break down:   Childhood memories of mischief and innocence before life got complicated  How the menopause journey can feel like an identity crisis—plus practical advice on managing those symptoms  The power of positivity, affirmations, and trusting the universe when life takes unexpected turns  The significance of building a chosen family abroad, and the bittersweet realities of missing home  Why self-compassion, putting your oxygen mask first, and rewriting your story are your secret weapons  If you're navigating life's twists and turns, feeling the weight of societal expectations, or simply craving stories of resilience and humor, this episode is your antidote. Perfect for women over 40, entrepreneurs, or anyone seeking inspiration to embrace change and find joy in the unraveling. Get ready to laugh, reflect, and rediscover your inner strength—because life's messiness is where the magic begins.  Thank you 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 @theglowupguide_au or visit sharonwilkesburt.com for more resources and support. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you’re enjoying the journey so far!

    Mentors, Migration and the Madness of Menopause with Michelle Heslop

  6. Jul 26

    Hollywood, Heartbreak and Hans Solo with Danielle Frank

    Danielle Frank has lived a lot of lives — Hollywood publicist, luxury brand director, debut author, professional aunt — and she's here to tell you that none of the detours were mistakes. In this conversation, Danielle traces the thread from a type-A teenager in New York with a very specific life plan, through Miramax in its prime, a 50% pay cut that turned out to be the best decision she ever made, two serious relationships that taught her more about herself than any self-help book, and the moment she finally stopped waiting to feel ready and just... started writing. We talk about the particular kind of confidence that only comes from walking away from things that don't fit. About choosing a life that's actually yours rather than the one you inherited as a blueprint. And about why, when her nieces and nephews wouldn't stop whining, she wrote a book about wine instead. Funny, honest, and unexpectedly moving — this one's for anyone who's ever wondered if they took a wrong turn, and needed someone to tell them the map was always theirs to draw. A Wine Lover's Guide to Parenting is available now. BARNES & NOBLE https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-wine-lovers-guide-to-parenting-danielle- frank/1148414693?ean=9781967598069 AMAZON https://a.co/d/abO3q7K INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/createagreatstory/?hl=en WEBSITE www.daniellefrankauthor.com LINKED IN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankdanielle/ FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/danielle.frank.7583  Thank you 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 @theglowupguide_au or visit sharonwilkesburt.com for more resources and support. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you’re enjoying the journey so far!

    Hollywood, Heartbreak and Hans Solo with Danielle Frank

  7. Apr 12

    One-way tickets and golden gaps: why it's never too late to start again with Fiona Taylor

    Fee Taylor has lived the kind of life other people convince themselves isn't possible. She emigrated to Tasmania with 650 quid and two suitcases. She built a career as a glass artist and taught English in Japan. She pivoted — more than once — without a plan B to fall back on. And now, in her second half of life, she's created the Golden Gap Year: a permission slip for women 50+ who are done waiting for the right moment to actually feel alive. In this episode, Fee and I talk about the golden thread of resilience that runs through a life that looks, from the outside, like one long act of bravery. We get into growing up across continents (she had her life story written down on paper by age 10), finding her people after moving back to England, discovering glass art by accident, and what it felt like when midlife arrived — quietly, and then all at once. We also talk about spasmodic dysphonia, a chronic throat condition that has taken some of Fee's voice — literally — and how someone whose whole personality runs on connection learns to keep showing up anyway. If you've ever stood at a crossroads and chosen the safe road because the other one felt too selfish, too risky, or just too late — this one's for you. You can find out more about Fiona Taylor and her Golden Gap offers at Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/choosehealthybyfiona/ Website: https://choosehealthy.com.au/  Spasmodic dysphonia is a chronic, rare neurological voice disorder causing involuntary vocal cord spasms, resulting in strained, broken, or breathy speech. Primarily affecting speech muscles, it is treated withBotox injections to reduce spasms and voice therapy to improve function, though no cure exists. It is most common in women aged 30–50. The Glow Deeper Retreat is a one-day, in-person experience for women ready to sit with themselves properly — no "manifest your best life" fluff, just structured, guided space to actually reflect. We start with a hands-on makeup workshop — unhurried, no pressure to "get it right," just a gentle way in. Then we move into the journalling and reflective work this podcast is built on: the same questions I ask my guests every episode, except this time i  Thank you 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 @theglowupguide_au or visit sharonwilkesburt.com for more resources and support. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you’re enjoying the journey so far!

    One-way tickets and golden gaps: why it's never too late to start again with Fiona Taylor

  8. Apr 6

    She Chose Love Over Brad Pitt: Bella Freeman on embodying the good life

    What does it look like to build a life from the inside out not from a plan, but from instinct, love, and a refusal to let other people's opinions run the show? This week on Unravelling, I'm sitting down with Bella Freeman — Perth-based entrepreneur, mentor, mum of two, and one of those humans who makes you feel like anything is possible just by being in her orbit. Bella's story moves through boarding school in the UK, a teenage year living in Kentucky, a romance that started at a royal shoot and nearly ended in Hollywood, and the decision to choose love over a career trajectory that included press junkets with Brad Pitt. (Yes, really.) She talks about the OCD that surfaced after her parents divorced and quietly threaded through her life, the early years of motherhood in Australia when finances were tight and connection felt hard to find, and the business she almost didn't start because she was too worried about what people would think. And then there's the chapter she didn't plan for — her eldest daughter's eating disorder, the hospital visits during COVID, and the relationship that deepened in the hardest of circumstances. This is a conversation about friendship, loyalty, determination, and what it means to build a life that actually fits. Bella's the kind of woman who carries her story lightly but deeply — and I think you're going to love her. The Glow Deeper Retreat is a one-day, in-person experience for women ready to sit with themselves properly — no "manifest your best life" fluff, just structured, guided space to actually reflect. We start with a hands-on makeup workshop — unhurried, no pressure to "get it right," just a gentle way in. Then we move into the journalling and reflective work this podcast is built on: the same questions I ask my guests every episode, except this time i  Thank you 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 @theglowupguide_au or visit sharonwilkesburt.com for more resources and support. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if you’re enjoying the journey so far!

    She Chose Love Over Brad Pitt: Bella Freeman on embodying the good life
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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? ICF Life & Confidence coach Sharon Wilkes-Burt takes you through the identity crises, the confidence wobbles, and the downright weirdness of life in messy middle with journal prompts, real talk, and a generous splash of radical kindness. If life feels like an unfinished book, let’s scribble in the margins together.

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