The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast

Mindi Lobuzzetta

The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast is where we strip away the "shoulds" and rewrite what it means to thrive in midlife. From peri menopause to mental health, from career pivots to fierce reinventions, this is your raw, real, no-apologies space to own your power, your voice, and your story.

  1. 2d ago

    It's Never Too Late to Make Music | Caroline McCaskey

    Too old to learn something new? Too late to return to something you once loved? Caroline McCaskey proves that both ideas are nonsense. In this episode of The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast, Mindi Lobuzzetta, LMHC, sits down with Caroline McCaskey—a classically trained multi-instrumentalist, composer, educator, U.S. National Scottish Fiddle Champion, and two-time International Musical Saw Champion—for a conversation about creativity, reinvention, community, and why there is no expiration date on beginning again. Caroline's musical life has never fit neatly into one box. Her career spans classical music, Scottish fiddle, folk, jazz, improvisation, composition, teaching—and yes, even the musical saw. Today, she also serves as Music Director of the San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers and teaches adult musicians through AltStrings Academy. But this conversation is about much more than music. Mindi and Caroline explore what happens when adults give themselves permission to become beginners again—and why midlife can actually be the perfect time to rediscover creativity, curiosity, and parts of ourselves we may have put aside years ago. Caroline shares why adults can make wonderful music students, how making music creates connection and community, and how creative pursuits can provide meaning during grief, transition, and major life changes. She also tells the unexpected story of discovering the musical saw, returning to school as an adult to study vocal jazz, and building a career that refuses to stay in one lane. IN THIS EPISODE 🎻 Why it is never too late to learn an instrument 🎻 Why adults can actually make incredible music students 🎻 Letting yourself be a beginner again 🎻 Creativity, identity, and reinvention in midlife 🎻 Why talent is NOT a prerequisite for enjoying music 🎻 How music creates connection and community 🎻 Creativity as a source of meaning during grief and life transitions 🎻 Caroline's journey from classical music to fiddle, jazz, improvisation—and the musical saw 🎻 Returning to school and learning something new as an adult 🎻 Why curiosity can take your life in directions you never expected If you've ever caught yourself thinking, "I wish I'd stuck with that," "I've always wanted to try that," or "It's probably too late for me now," this conversation is for you. Maybe the goal isn't to become the best. Maybe you don't need to turn your creativity into a career, monetize it, master it, or prove anything to anyone. Maybe joy is reason enough to begin.     🎻 CONNECT WITH CAROLINE McCASKEY 🌐 Caroline McCaskey — Official Website https://carolinemccaskey.com 🎻 AltStrings Academy https://altstringsacademy.com 🎼 AltStrings https://altstrings.com 🪚 Musical Saw / SawPlayer https://sawplayer.com 📸 Instagram — AltStrings https://www.instagram.com/altstrings 📘 Facebook — AltStrings https://www.facebook.com/altstrings ▶️ YouTube — AltStrings https://www.youtube.com/@AltStrings 🎻 San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers https://sfscottishfiddlers.org     🎙️ CONNECT WITH MINDI + THE UNAPOLOGETIC MIDLIFE PODCAST 🌐 Website https://theunapologeticmidlifepodcast.com 📸 Instagram — @unapologetic_midlife https://www.instagram.com/unapologetic_midlife 📘 Facebook — The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast https://www.facebook.com/TheUnapologeticMidLifePodcast 🎵 TikTok — @unapologeticmidlife https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticmidlife ▶️ YouTube — The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast https://www.youtube.com/@TheUnapologeticMidLifePodcast ✍️ Substack — The Unapologetic MidLife https://substack.com/@unapologeticmidlifepodcast Subscribe, follow, rate, review, and share this episode with someone who needs the reminder that they are not too old and it is not too late.     ⚠️ DISCLAIMER The views and opinions expressed by guests on The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Mindi Lobuzzetta, LMHC. This podcast is intended for educational, informational, and inspirational purposes only. While Mindi Lobuzzetta is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, the information and conversations shared on this podcast do not constitute therapy, mental health treatment, medical advice, diagnosis, or a therapeutic relationship. Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapist-client relationship with Mindi Lobuzzetta, LMHC, or any guest featured on the show. Always consult an appropriately qualified professional regarding your individual mental or physical health needs. If you are experiencing a mental health crisis in the United States, call or text 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. In a medical or life-threatening emergency, call 911 or seek immediate emergency care. © Midlife Media 716, LLC. All rights reserved.

  2. Sep 23

    Your Health, Your Rules: Rewriting the Midlife Wellness Playbook With Matt Meyer | Revive Performance & Health

    Feeling tired, stressed, run-down, or just not quite like yourself? Midlife has a way of making us pay attention to our bodies, but that doesn't mean we have to accept every change as an inevitable part of getting older. In this episode of The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast, host Mindi Lobuzzetta, LMHC, sits down with Matt Myers, owner of Revive Wellness and Performance, for a conversation about taking a more proactive, individualized approach to health, wellness, and performance. Matt shares his journey into holistic health and why he believes the mind, body, and spirit are interconnected. Together, we explore the role of mindset, nervous system regulation, human connection, and lifestyle choices in how we feel and function. And we're getting into something that might make you think twice about the words coming out of your mouth: soft talk. Those little phrases like "I'll try," "I can't," or "maybe someday" might seem harmless, but how does the language we use influence our confidence, self-doubt, and ability to make meaningful changes? We also discuss the neuropsychology of pain, the importance of recovery, hormone health, and why advocating for yourself matters when navigating a healthcare system that doesn't always prioritize prevention. Because taking charge of your health isn't about chasing perfection. It's about asking better questions, understanding your options, and making sustainable changes that work for YOU. 🎙️ In This Episode, We Explore: Matt's journey into holistic wellness and performance. The connection between mental, emotional, and physical health. How language and mindset can influence confidence, pain perception, and behavior. Why community and human connection matter for our well-being. Stress, breathwork, recovery, and nervous system regulation. Hormone health and the importance of individualized care. The role of childhood experiences and environment in shaping our health behaviors. Why small, consistent lifestyle changes can be more sustainable than drastic overhauls. Self-advocacy, education, and taking a proactive approach to midlife health. The takeaway? You don't have to overhaul your entire life overnight. Start paying attention to your body, challenge the stories you've been telling yourself, and remember that you're allowed to ask questions about your health. Midlife isn't the time to give up on yourself. It's the time to get unapologetic about what you need to feel your best. 🎧 Listen now, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who's ready to take a more intentional approach to their health.     🌿 CONNECT WITH MINDI 🎙️ The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast 🌐 Website: https://www.theunapologeticmidlifepodcast.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unapologetic_midlife 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologetic_midlife 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheUnapologeticMidLifePodcast   🌿 CONNECT WITH MATT MEYER Revive Performance & Health 🌐 Website: revivewny.com  📸 Instagram: @mattmeyer911 📧 Email: mattmeyer@revivewny.com ⚕️ DISCLAIMER The information shared on The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical, mental health, diagnostic, or treatment advice. The experiences and opinions shared by the host and guest are intended to encourage education and conversation and are not a substitute for individualized care from a qualified healthcare professional. Always consult your physician or appropriate licensed healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing medications, supplements, treatments, or other aspects of your healthcare. Every person's health history, needs, risks, and circumstances are different. The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast and Midlife Media 716, LLC do not endorse or guarantee any specific treatment, product, service, or outcome discussed during this episode. © Midlife Media 716, LLC | The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast | All Rights Reserved.

    Your Health, Your Rules: Rewriting the Midlife Wellness Playbook With Matt Meyer | Revive Performance & Health
  3. Sep 9

    Your Brain Isn't Betraying You: Midlife, Migraines & Hormones with Doctor Brain Barbie

    What is actually happening to our brains in midlife—and how much of what we're experiencing is connected to hormones? This week on The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast, Mindi sits down with Dr. Jessica Lowe, aka Doctor Brain Barbie, a double board-certified neurologist and epileptologist who has built a massive online community by making complicated neurological information understandable, relatable, and actually interesting. And yes—you can absolutely love pink, glitter, and femininity while also being a highly trained medical expert. In this conversation, Dr. Lowe shares how she became "Doctor Brain Barbie," why she refuses to fit the stereotypical image of what a neurologist is supposed to look or act like, and what she has learned about navigating misinformation and criticism online. Then we get into the brain. Mindi and Dr. Lowe dive into the neurological changes women may experience during perimenopause and menopause, including brain fog, memory changes, migraines, sleep disruption, stress, mental health, and the impact of fluctuating hormones on the brain. Dr. Lowe also brings a unique perspective to the conversation because she doesn't just treat migraine—she lives with chronic migraine herself. They discuss why "the migraine brain does not like change," how hormonal fluctuations can influence migraine patterns, the role hormone therapy may play during menopause, and why sleep deserves far more attention when we're talking about cognitive and neurological health. They also tackle one of the biggest fears women have when they suddenly can't remember a word, lose their train of thought, or walk into a room and have absolutely no idea why they're there: Is this normal midlife brain fog—or something more serious? This episode is about understanding what is happening inside your brain instead of automatically assuming every new symptom means you're "just getting older." Because as Dr. Lowe reminds us: "Your brain isn't betraying you." And perhaps just as importantly: "You can be girly and still be an expert." IN THIS EPISODE 🧠 What happens to the female brain during perimenopause and menopause 🧠 Hormonal fluctuations and neurological symptoms 🧠 Why migraines can change during midlife 🧠 The relationship between estrogen, menopause, and migraine 🧠 Hormone therapy and migraine 🧠 Brain fog vs. signs that deserve further evaluation 🧠 Sleep disruption and cognitive function 🧠 Mental health and the midlife brain 🧠 Dr. Lowe's personal experience living with chronic migraine 🧠 Medical misinformation on social media 🧠 Why credible health information matters 🧠 Challenging stereotypes about femininity and intelligence 🧠 Why patients and healthcare providers need to work collaboratively CONNECT WITH DR. JESSICA LOWE — DOCTOR BRAIN BARBIE 📸 Instagram: @doctorbrainbarbie 🎵 TikTok: @doctorbrainbarbie 🔗 Linktree: Doctor Brain Barbie CONNECT WITH MINDI + THE UNAPOLOGETIC MIDLIFE PODCAST 🎙️ The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast 📸 Instagram: @Unapologetic_midlife 🎵 TikTok: The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast 📘 Facebook: The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast ▶️ YouTube: The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast ✍️ Substack: The Unapologetic MidLife 🌐 Website: The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast Hosted by Mindi Lobuzzetta, LMHC Subscribe, follow, and share this episode with another woman who has ever wondered, What the hell is happening to my brain? DISCLAIMER: The information shared in this episode is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical or mental health condition. This podcast does not establish a physician-patient or therapist-client relationship. Always consult with your own qualified healthcare provider regarding your individual health, symptoms, medications, or treatment decisions. © Midlife Media 716, LLC. All rights reserved.

    Your Brain Isn't Betraying You: Midlife, Migraines & Hormones with Doctor Brain Barbie
  4. Aug 5

    Your Hormones Aren't Broken. The System Is. | Dr. Nina Strollo on Perimenopause, Menopause & Taking Your Life Back

    Perimenopause doesn't suddenly begin the day your period stops—and contrary to what many women have been told, you don't have to "just live with it." In this episode of The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast, I'm joined by board-certified OB/GYN Dr. Nina Strollo, owner and partner of Suburban Women's Healthcare and the voice behind The Hormonal Gynecologist. Together, we're cutting through the noise surrounding women's hormones and having the conversations too many women wish their providers had started years ago. We discuss why perimenopause can begin as early as your mid-30s, why symptoms are often dismissed or misdiagnosed, and why treating women requires far more than simply checking hormone labs. You'll also hear an honest conversation about hormone replacement therapy, testosterone for women, vaginal estrogen, libido, mental health, fertility, chronic stress, lifestyle changes, and how individualized care—not fear—is changing women's lives. If you've ever been told: • "Your labs are normal." • "You're too young." • "It's just stress." • "This is just aging." …this episode is for you. Whether you're just beginning to notice changes or you're deep into perimenopause or menopause, this conversation will leave you feeling educated, validated, and empowered to advocate for yourself. Because women deserve answers—and they deserve to feel like themselves again. The information shared on The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical, mental health, or legal advice. Although I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, the conversations shared on this podcast do not constitute therapy, counseling, or create a therapist-client relationship between you and Mindi Lobuzzetta, LMHC. 🌿 Connect with Dr. Nina Strollo, MD 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehormonalgynecologist/ 🏥 Suburban Women's Healthcare Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swhcpc_/ 🌐 Website: https://suburbanwomenshealthcare.com/     🎙️ Connect with Mindi Lobuzzetta, LMHC 🌐 Website: https://mindilobuzzetta.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unapologetic_midlife/ 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindilobuzzettalmhc 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologetic_midlife DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Mindi Lobuzzetta, LMHC. Every woman's health history is unique. Please consult your own qualified healthcare provider regarding diagnosis, treatment, medications, hormone therapy, or any medical concerns discussed in this episode. If you are experiencing a medical or mental health emergency, call 911 or seek immediate assistance.

    Your Hormones Aren't Broken. The System Is. | Dr. Nina Strollo on Perimenopause, Menopause & Taking Your Life Back
  5. Jul 29

    The Conversation That Could Change Your Life

    Sometimes the greatest lessons in life don't come from a book, a course, or even an expert—they come from the conversations we almost didn't have. In this episode of The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast, Mindi Lobuzzetta explores why curiosity is becoming a lost art, how midlife invites us to step outside our comfort zones, and why some of our greatest teachers are the people who seem the most different from us. From starting a business later in life to striking up conversations with strangers while traveling, Mindi shares how unexpected connections have shaped her personally and professionally. She challenges listeners to let go of assumptions, embrace curiosity, and remember that meaningful growth often begins with one simple word: hello. If you've been craving deeper connection, fresh perspective, or simply a reminder that there is still so much to learn in this season of life, this episode is for you. In this episode: Why our brains naturally seek familiarity How midlife shifts the questions we ask ourselves The power of talking to people outside your usual circle Why curiosity is one of the most underrated life skills How women can learn more from each other when we choose connection over competition Because sometimes the person who changes your life is the one you almost walked past.     ⚠️ Disclaimer The content shared on The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast is intended for informational and inspirational purposes only. While your host, Mindi Lobuzzetta, is a licensed mental health counselor, the conversations and opinions expressed on this podcast do not constitute therapy, medical advice, or a therapeutic relationship. Nothing shared here should be used as a substitute for professional mental health, medical, or legal guidance. Always consult with your own qualified healthcare or mental health provider regarding your individual needs. Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapist-client relationship with Mindi Lobuzzetta, LMHC.     Connect with Mindi 📷 Instagram: @unapologetic_midlife https://www.instagram.com/unapologetic_midlife 🎙️ YouTube: @TheUnapologeticMidLifePodcast https://www.youtube.com/@TheUnapologeticMidLifePodcast 🌐 Website: https://www.unapologeticmidlifepodcast.com 📘 Facebook: The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast https://www.facebook.com/TheUnapologeticMidLifePodcast

    The Conversation That Could Change Your Life
  6. Jul 22

    Midlife Reclamation: Energy Healing, Intuition & Reclaiming Your Power with Christine Agro

    What if healing involves more than just the mind and body? In this thought-provoking episode of The Unapologetic Midlife Podcast, I sit down with Christine Agro—metaphysical teacher, clairvoyant, master energy worker, founder of Intrinsic Energy Work®, and award-winning author—to explore a different perspective on healing, intuition, and personal transformation. For more than 25 years, Christine has helped hundreds of thousands of people—and their animal companions—explore the energetic patterns that may influence emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. Together we discuss how midlife can become an invitation to reclaim your voice, reconnect with yourself, and step into a new season with greater awareness and purpose. In this episode, we discuss: • Energy work and vibrational healing • Why midlife can be a powerful turning point • Patriarchal conditioning and its impact on women • Astrology as a tool for self-reflection and growth • Manifestation, intuition, and trusting yourself • Healing for both people and animals • Reclaiming your personal power Whether you're deeply interested in spirituality or simply curious about different perspectives on healing, this conversation offers an opportunity to explore these topics with an open mind. 🎙️ Connect with Mindi Lobuzzetta, LMHC 🌐 Website https://www.theunapologeticmidlifepodcast.com 📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/unapologetic_midlife 📘 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/TheUnapologeticMidLifePodcast 🎵 TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticmidlife     ✨ Connect with Christine Agro 🌐 Website https://www.christineagro.com 📸 Instagram https://www.instagram.com/christineagro 📘 Facebook https://www.facebook.com/christineagro 🎥 YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@christineagro 📰 Substack https://christineagro.substack.com     📚 Christine's Resources 📖 Midlife Reclamation Workbook https://midlife.christineagro.com ✨ Patriarchal Encodement Program https://christineagro.com/patriarchal-encodement 🌙 Soul Evolution Moonwork https://christineagro.com/soul-evolution-moonwork     Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed by today's guest are her own and do not necessarily reflect those of Mindi Lobuzzetta, LMHC. This episode is intended for educational and informational purposes only and explores different perspectives on healing and personal growth. It is not a substitute for medical or mental health treatment. Always consult your own qualified healthcare or mental health provider regarding your individual needs. Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapist-client relationship with Mindi Lobuzzetta, LMHC, or any guest featured on the show. If you are experiencing a medical or mental health emergency, call 911 or seek immediate assistance.

  7. Jul 15

    Why Midlife Makes You Less Tolerant of Nonsense: The Science of Your Window of Tolerance

    Have you found yourself thinking… "I just don't have the patience I used to." You're not imagining it—and you're definitely not "too sensitive." In this episode, licensed mental health counselor and host Mindi Lobuzzetta breaks down one of the most important concepts in trauma-informed mental health: the Window of Tolerance. You'll learn why everyday stress feels heavier in midlife, how hormones influence your nervous system, why childhood experiences still matter decades later, and what resilience actually looks like. We'll talk about: • Why your stress tolerance changes during perimenopause and menopause • How estrogen affects the brain and nervous system • Childhood resilience and the lessons many of us learned growing up • Trauma, Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), and nervous system regulation • Practical ways to widen your Window of Tolerance and support your mental health If you've been wondering why noise feels louder, stress feels heavier, and your patience seems shorter than it used to be, this episode will help you understand what's happening inside your brain and body—and remind you that you aren't broken. Your nervous system isn't failing you. It's communicating with you.     Connect with Mindi 🌐 Website: https://www.mindilobuzzetta.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unapologetic_midlife 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/unapologeticmidlife 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologetic_midlife     Disclaimer The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only. The information shared in this episode is not medical advice, mental health treatment, diagnosis, or a substitute for care from your physician, licensed mental health professional, or other qualified healthcare provider. Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapist-client relationship. Always consult your own healthcare team regarding questions about your physical or mental health, medications, or treatment decisions. If you are experiencing a medical or mental health emergency, call 911, go to your nearest emergency department, or contact a qualified crisis service immediately.

    Why Midlife Makes You Less Tolerant of Nonsense: The Science of Your Window of Tolerance
  8. Jun 24

    Corporate Wellness, Midlife Nutrition & Burnout Prevention with Mindy Yoder, RD

    What do workplace wellness, burnout prevention, nutrition, and midlife health have in common? More than you might think. In this episode of The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast, I sit down with registered dietitian, wellness strategist, and corporate wellness consultant Mindy Yoder to discuss how nutrition and wellness directly impact our energy, productivity, focus, and overall well-being both at work and in everyday life. Mindy shares her journey from hospitality leadership to helping organizations create healthier, more sustainable workplace cultures. We explore why employee wellness matters, how burnout affects performance, and what practical wellness strategies can help people feel better without adding more stress to their already busy lives. We also dive into midlife nutrition, hormone health, gut health, travel wellness, and how to make healthier choices while balancing demanding schedules, work responsibilities, and family life. Whether you're a professional navigating workplace stress, a leader looking to support employee well-being, or someone trying to prioritize your health during midlife, this conversation offers practical tools that can make a real difference. In this episode, we discuss: ✔ Corporate wellness and employee well-being ✔ Nutrition strategies for busy professionals ✔ Burnout prevention and sustainable self-care ✔ Midlife nutrition and hormone health ✔ Gut health and overall wellness ✔ Travel nutrition and healthy habits on the go ✔ Creating systems that support long-term success ✔ Why consistency matters more than perfection This episode is a powerful reminder that wellness isn't another task on your to-do list—it's the foundation that allows you to show up fully in your work, relationships, and life. 🌿 Connect with Mindy Yoder 🌐 Website: https://www.mindyyoder.com 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindyyoder 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mindyyoder 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mindyyoder 🎙️ Connect with Mindi & The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast 🌐 Website: https://www.theunapologeticmidlifepodcast.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unapologetic_midlife 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheUnapologeticMidLifePodcast 🎵 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@unapologeticmidlife ⚠️ Disclaimer The information shared on The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered medical, mental health, nutritional, wellness, or professional advice. Always consult with your physician, registered dietitian, mental health professional, or other qualified healthcare provider regarding your individual health concerns. Listening to this podcast does not establish a therapeutic, medical, nutritional, coaching, or professional relationship with the host or guests.

    Corporate Wellness, Midlife Nutrition & Burnout Prevention with Mindy Yoder, RD

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

The Unapologetic MidLife Podcast is where we strip away the "shoulds" and rewrite what it means to thrive in midlife. From peri menopause to mental health, from career pivots to fierce reinventions, this is your raw, real, no-apologies space to own your power, your voice, and your story.