Message In The Middle

Marianne DeMello-Smith

This podcast is a safe and supportive space for listeners to explore life's challenging lessons and gain inspiration for their personal development journey. Through a variety of engaging formats, including interviews, book clubs, master classes, and discussions, the podcast delves into topics related to perseverance, self-empowerment, and self-discovery. With a focus on sharing expertise, inspiring stories and insights from a diverse range of voices, the podcast aims to help listeners navigate difficult experiences, provide hope and inspiration, and develop the resilience and strength needed to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.At its core, this podcast is a platform for personal growth and development. It provides a welcoming space for listeners to explore life's toughest lessons and learn from others who have overcome similar challenges. Through a variety of formats, including interviews with experts and everyday people, book clubs featuring thought-provoking works, and discussions focused on specific topics, listeners are exposed to a range of perspectives and ideas that can help them on their own personal journeys. One of the key themes of this podcast is perseverance. Many of the stories shared on the show highlight the importance of pushing through difficult times and not giving up, even when the odds seem insurmountable. Whether it's overcoming eating disorders, grief, addiction, navigating a health crisis, or dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic experience, the podcast emphasizes the resilience and strength of the human spirit. Another important theme of the podcast is self-empowerment. Listeners are encouraged to take control of their own lives and pursue their goals with confidence and determination. By sharing stories of individuals who have transformed their lives through hard work and self-discovery, the podcast inspires listeners to believe in their own potential and take steps to create the life they want and to recognize that we are all capable of rewiring our thoughts and behaviors.  Finally, the podcast is focused on self-discovery. Through discussions and interviews, listeners are encouraged to explore their own values, beliefs, and desires, and to gain a deeper understanding of themselves. By reflecting on their own experiences and learning from the stories of others, listeners can gain valuable insights that can help them navigate life's challenges and live more fulfilling lives. Overall, this podcast is a powerful resource for anyone seeking inspiration, guidance, and support on their personal development journey. By exploring life's difficult lessons through inspiring stories, interviews, book clubs, and discussions, listeners can gain the tools they need to persevere through tough times, empower themselves to achieve their goals, and discover their true selves.

  1. The New Old: Erika Andersen on Crafting Your Best Later Life

    1D AGO

    The New Old: Erika Andersen on Crafting Your Best Later Life

    What if aging wasn’t about decline, but about becoming more fully yourself? In this episode of Message in the Middle, I sit down with bestselling author and leadership coach Erika Andersen to talk about what it really means to age well—and how we can begin preparing for a vibrant “third act” of life long before we get there. Erika has spent more than 30 years guiding senior leaders at companies like Spotify, Amazon, and Charter through deep transformation. Now, in her seventies, she’s turning that wisdom inward with her newest book, The New Old: Crafting Your Best Later Life, a #1 Amazon bestseller. She shares how we can approach aging with curiosity and intention, unlearn the limiting stories that hold us back, and create a later life rich with joy, discovery, and purpose. This isn’t just a conversation for someone in their seventies. If you’re in your forties, fifties, or anywhere in midlife, now is the time to think about how you want to shape the years ahead. Because your third act has the potential to be your best act and it starts with the choices you make today. Join us as we talk about: How to define your “third act” and start shaping it with intentionThe power of curiosity, courage, and creativity in aging wellWhy reinvention isn’t about being “too late,” but about being ready nowHow to hold both grief and grace as we grow olderHow to Be the Boss of Your Life: Create a compelling vision for your future and build a plan to help you achieve itIf you’re craving a hopeful, thoughtful perspective on what it means to grow older on your own terms, this conversation is for you. Connect with Erika:  Website: https://erikaandersen.comSubstack:  https://erikaandersen1.substack.com Connect with Marianne: Website: Message In The Middle with Marianne Message In the Middle Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/422430469323847/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MessageInTheMiddle/playlists LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianne-demello-smith-678b9966 Email: Contact | Message In The Middle with Marianne Subscribe to Message In the Middle: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Leave Us a Review: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review and share your favorite takeaway. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and bring you even more valuable content. Keep the conversation going - Join us for more insightful conversations in the Message in the Middle Private Facebook Community & subscribe to Message in th...

    44 min
  2. MindShifting with Mitch Weisburgh: How to Rewire Your Brain for Resilience, Resourcefulness, and Collaboration

    SEP 20

    MindShifting with Mitch Weisburgh: How to Rewire Your Brain for Resilience, Resourcefulness, and Collaboration

    Have you ever felt like your own mind is working against you? That no matter how much you want to change, old patterns and doubts keep pulling you back? In this episode of Message in the Middle, I sit down with educator, entrepreneur, and author Mitch Weisburgh to talk about his new book MindShifting: Stop Your Brain from Sabotaging Your Happiness and Success. Mitch has spent decades helping people and organizations learn, grow, and adapt and now he’s sharing practical tools to help us do the same in our everyday lives. Together, we explore the three powerful pillars of MindShifting: Resourcefulness: How to transform setbacks into learning opportunities that move you forward.Resilience: Why bouncing back isn’t about pushing harder, but about finding strength and meaning in challenges.Collaboration: How to navigate differences and build connections that lead to collective growth.Mitch’s hopeful, practical approach shows us that transformation doesn’t require perfection, it just requires a shift in how we think. If you’ve been feeling stuck or searching for new ways to move forward, this episode will give you tools, perspective, and a reminder that your brain is not your enemy, in fact, it can become your greatest ally. Other Episodes mentioned: https://www.messageinthemiddle.com/resetting-the-chemistry-of-stress-science-backed-strategies-for-resilience-with-jenny-evans/ https://www.buzzsprout.com/1938384/episodes/17589489 Connect with Mitch:  Website: https://www.mindshiftingwithmitch.com/LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/mweisburgh/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weisburghm/ Connect with Marianne: Website: Message In The Middle with Marianne Message In the Middle Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/422430469323847/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MessageInTheMiddle/playlists LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianne-demello-smith-678b9966 Email: Contact | Message In The Middle with Marianne Subscribe to Message In the Middle: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Leave Us a Review: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review and share your favorite takeaway. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and bring you even more valuable content. Keep the conversation going - Join us for more insightful conversations in the Message in the Middle Private Facebook Community & subscribe to Message in th...

    46 min
  3. Body Image, Self-Trust, and Food Freedom: What Midlife Can Teach Us

    SEP 13

    Body Image, Self-Trust, and Food Freedom: What Midlife Can Teach Us

    If you’ve spent years counting calories, restricting foods, or shaming yourself for not having the “perfect” body, you’re not alone. For so many women, especially in midlife, the relationship with food and body image can feel like an exhausting tug-of-war. But what if the way out isn’t about more willpower or stricter rules? What if it’s about relearning how to trust yourself? In this episode of Message in the Middle, I sit down with Joanne Edinberg, Certified Eating Psychology Coach and founder of Body Wisdom Nutrition. Joanne helps women transform their relationship with food and body, moving from stress, guilt, and shame to curiosity, compassion, and joy. With a background in psychology, social work, yoga, and trauma-informed coaching, Joanne offers a refreshing, deeply compassionate perspective: our struggles with food and body image aren’t problems to fix, they’re powerful teachers. We talk about: How to rebuild trust in your body, even if you’ve felt disconnected for yearsWhy midlife can be the best time to find food freedomSmall, doable shifts to move from body shame to body confidenceHow curiosity can become your most powerful healing toolRethinking what “health” really means, on your own termsWhether you’re navigating emotional eating, midlife weight changes, or years of body dissatisfaction, this conversation will help you take the first steps toward peace with food and yourself. Connect with Marianne: Website: Message In The Middle with Marianne Message In the Middle Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/422430469323847/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MessageInTheMiddle/playlists LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianne-demello-smith-678b9966 Email: Contact | Message In The Middle with Marianne Subscribe to Message In the Middle: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Leave Us a Review: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review and share your favorite takeaway. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and bring you even more valuable content. Keep the conversation going - Join us for more insightful conversations in the Message in the Middle Private Facebook Community & subscribe to Message in th...

    45 min
  4. America in Therapy: Healing Ourselves to Heal Our Nation with Phyllis Leavitt

    SEP 6

    America in Therapy: Healing Ourselves to Heal Our Nation with Phyllis Leavitt

    If you’ve been feeling the weight of the world lately, wondering how we got here, why everything feels so divided, or how to reconnect to yourself in a culture that seems more disconnected than ever, this episode offers a thoughtful, healing perspective. In this soulful and timely conversation, Marianne sits down with Phyllis Leavitt, a seasoned psychotherapist, spiritual seeker, and author of America in Therapy: A New Approach to Hope and Healing for a Nation in Crisis. Drawing from more than 30 years of clinical experience and her own healing journey, Phyllis explores the idea that the emotional repair work we do in our personal lives might be more than just personal, it might be the very key to healing our communities, and maybe even our country. Together, they discuss: What collective trauma looks like and how it mirrors family dynamicsThe emotional toll of being the “emotional glue” and how and why we need to make sure we prioritize selfWhat spirituality really meansThe surprising role of spiritual connection in lasting changeThe biggest problem facing our nation todayWhat it really takes to heal, personally, relationally, and as a societyThis episode is an invitation to pause, reflect, and remember that healing ripples outward and the work you’re doing matters more than you may know. Connect with Phyllis and her work:  https://www.facebook.com/phyllis.leavitthttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOdxqvDK9N421AZ5TTxqUgQhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/phyllis-leavitt-630179255/https://www.instagram.com/phyllis_e_leavitt/https://twitter.com/PhyllisLeavitt2https://substack.com/@phyllisleavitt1 Connect with Marianne: Website: Message In The Middle with Marianne Message In the Middle Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/422430469323847/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MessageInTheMiddle/playlists LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianne-demello-smith-678b9966 Email: Contact | Message In The Middle with Marianne Subscribe to Message In the Middle: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Leave Us a Review: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review and share your favorite takeaway. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and bring you even more valuable content. Keep the conversation going - Join us for more insightful conversations in the Message in the Middle Private Facebook Community & subscribe to Message in th...

    44 min
  5. Never Quit on a Bad Day: Phebe Trotman on Resilience, Language, and Creating a Life You Love

    AUG 30

    Never Quit on a Bad Day: Phebe Trotman on Resilience, Language, and Creating a Life You Love

    What if the words you speak could shape your reality and what if the key to moving forward was simply refusing to quit on your hardest days? In this empowering episode of Message in the Middle, I’m joined by Hall of Fame athlete, award-winning entrepreneur, and bestselling author Phebe Trotman. As the powerhouse behind the Never Quit on a Bad Day book series, Phebe shares her deeply personal philosophy on resilience, the transformative power of intentional language, and what it really means to build a life you love, no matter where you’re starting from. We dive into the stories that shaped her path, from championship wins and business accolades to the quiet, pivotal moments where choosing her words, and her mindset, changed everything. Whether you’re feeling stuck, questioning your direction, or just looking for a spark of hope, this conversation will remind you that you’re not alone… and you’re not done. We explore: 🔹 The real meaning behind “Never Quit on a Bad Day” 🔹 What to do when your inner voice becomes your biggest obstacle 🔹 How to spot and shift limiting language into “success language” 🔹 The connection between words, confidence, and forward momentum 🔹 Why being an “impact player” starts with self-leadership 🔹 How to balance hustle with healing 🔹 And the message Phebe wants every midlife woman to hear This one’s for the woman who’s strong but tired, driven but questioning, and ready to start speaking success into existence. You’ll walk away with both practical tools and a full heart. Connect with Marianne: Website: Message In The Middle with Marianne Message In the Middle Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/422430469323847/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MessageInTheMiddle/playlists LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianne-demello-smith-678b9966 Email: Contact | Message In The Middle with Marianne Subscribe to Message In the Middle: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Leave Us a Review: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review and share your favorite takeaway. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and bring you even more valuable content. Keep the conversation going - Join us for more insightful conversations in the Message in the Middle Private Facebook Community & subscribe to Message in th...

    39 min
  6. Is Your Resume & LinkedIn Profile Telling the Right Story? Career Strategies with Amy Adler

    AUG 23

    Is Your Resume & LinkedIn Profile Telling the Right Story? Career Strategies with Amy Adler

    In this episode of Message in the Middle, we’re diving into the often-overwhelming world of career change and job search strategy. I’m joined by Amy Adler, president of Five Strengths Career Transition Experts and a nationally recognized expert in resume writing and career positioning. With credentials like Certified Master Resume Writer, Certified Executive Resume Master, and Nationally Certified Online Profile Expert, Amy brings the perfect mix of strategy and heart to career transition. She’s also the author of Courageous Career Change: Fearlessly Earn the Executive Role You Deserve. Together, we unpack some of the most common challenges job seekers face today, including how to prepare even when you’re not actively looking. You’ll hear us explore: ✅ The biggest mistakes people make when writing their own resumes ✅ How long a resume should really be ✅ How to navigate AI-driven hiring systems and applicant tracking software ✅ Strategies for addressing ageism and showing up with confidence ✅ How to position yourself for a complete career shift ✅ What you must be doing with your LinkedIn profile today ✅ Misconceptions around resumes and LinkedIn that could be holding you back ✅ Why having a Network is so important and what that means.   Whether you’re preparing for a change, recovering from a job loss, or simply wondering if your resume and LinkedIn profile are telling the right story, Amy offers clear, compassionate, and empowering advice to help you move forward with purpose. Connect with Amy:  https://www.fivestrengths.com/ Connect with Marianne: Website: Message In The Middle with Marianne Message In the Middle Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/422430469323847/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MessageInTheMiddle/playlists LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianne-demello-smith-678b9966 Email: Contact | Message In The Middle with Marianne Subscribe to Message In the Middle: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Leave Us a Review: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review and share your favorite takeaway. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and bring you even more valuable content. Keep the conversation going - Join us for more insightful conversations in the Message in the Middle Private Facebook Community & subscribe to Message in th...

    36 min
  7. Is Magnesium the Missing Link? How to Restore Energy, Ease Anxiety, and Reclaim Vibrancy with Natalie Jurado

    AUG 16

    Is Magnesium the Missing Link? How to Restore Energy, Ease Anxiety, and Reclaim Vibrancy with Natalie Jurado

    Have you ever felt exhausted for no clear reason? Struggled with anxiety that seems to come out of nowhere? Or found yourself wondering why, despite doing all the “right” things, you still don’t feel like you? If so, this episode of Message in the Middle might shine a light on a hidden factor that could change everything. Marianne is joined by Natalie Jurado, a certified magnesium expert and the founder of Rooted In, a wellness brand focused on helping women reclaim their energy, clarity, and emotional balance—starting with a powerful, often-overlooked mineral: magnesium. In this empowering conversation, you’ll learn: The surprising symptoms of magnesium deficiency (and why so many women are missing it)How magnesium affects stress, anxiety, sleep, mood, and hormonesThe different types of magnesium—and which one is best for your specific needsCommon myths about magnesium How to use magnesium to feel vibrant, grounded, and calm againLow entry points to raising your magnesiumNatalie's personal journey from burnout to balanceWhether you're stuck in survival mode, overwhelmed by hormonal shifts, or simply tired of feeling tired, this conversation offers clarity, practical tips, and a new path forward. Natalie's website:  https://berootedin.com/ Download Natalie’s Magnesium Types Cheat Sheet here: berootedin.com/pages/magnesium-types-cheat-sheet Connect with Marianne: Website: Message In The Middle with Marianne Message In the Middle Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/422430469323847/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MessageInTheMiddle/playlists LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianne-demello-smith-678b9966 Email: Contact | Message In The Middle with Marianne Subscribe to Message In the Middle: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Leave Us a Review: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review and share your favorite takeaway. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and bring you even more valuable content. Keep the conversation going - Join us for more insightful conversations in the Message in the Middle Private Facebook Community & subscribe to Message in th...

    33 min
  8. Resetting the Chemistry of Stress: Science-Backed Strategies for Resilience with Jenny Evans

    AUG 9

    Resetting the Chemistry of Stress: Science-Backed Strategies for Resilience with Jenny Evans

    Ever feel like you’re running on empty while trying to keep it all together? You’re not alone — and you’re not broken. In this episode of Message in the Middle, I’m joined by Jenny Evans — global speaker, author, and expert in the chemistry of stress, confidence, and performance. Jenny breaks down what’s really happening in your body when you're feeling overwhelmed, burned out, or soul-tired — and how resilience isn’t just a mindset, it’s a biological skill you can train. We explore: Why so many of us are stuck in a cycle of chronic stressHow understanding your body’s chemistry can help you bounce back fasterOne small shift you can make today to feel more grounded and energizedWhat the most resilient people have in common — and how you can start building that, tooWhy “micro resilience” beats big, sweeping changesJenny blends science with soul, and this conversation is packed with insight, practicality, and just the right amount of humor. If you’re ready to stop powering through and start feeling strong from the inside out, this episode is for you. Connect with Jenny: https://www.jennyevans.com/yourcortisolreset Connect with Marianne: Website: Message In The Middle with Marianne Message In the Middle Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/422430469323847/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MessageInTheMiddle/playlists LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianne-demello-smith-678b9966 Email: Contact | Message In The Middle with Marianne Subscribe to Message In the Middle: Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube Leave Us a Review: If you enjoyed today’s episode, please leave a review and share your favorite takeaway. Your feedback helps us reach more listeners and bring you even more valuable content. Keep the conversation going - Join us for more insightful conversations in the Message in the Middle Private Facebook Community & subscribe to Message in th...

    41 min
5
out of 5
26 Ratings

About

This podcast is a safe and supportive space for listeners to explore life's challenging lessons and gain inspiration for their personal development journey. Through a variety of engaging formats, including interviews, book clubs, master classes, and discussions, the podcast delves into topics related to perseverance, self-empowerment, and self-discovery. With a focus on sharing expertise, inspiring stories and insights from a diverse range of voices, the podcast aims to help listeners navigate difficult experiences, provide hope and inspiration, and develop the resilience and strength needed to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.At its core, this podcast is a platform for personal growth and development. It provides a welcoming space for listeners to explore life's toughest lessons and learn from others who have overcome similar challenges. Through a variety of formats, including interviews with experts and everyday people, book clubs featuring thought-provoking works, and discussions focused on specific topics, listeners are exposed to a range of perspectives and ideas that can help them on their own personal journeys. One of the key themes of this podcast is perseverance. Many of the stories shared on the show highlight the importance of pushing through difficult times and not giving up, even when the odds seem insurmountable. Whether it's overcoming eating disorders, grief, addiction, navigating a health crisis, or dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic experience, the podcast emphasizes the resilience and strength of the human spirit. Another important theme of the podcast is self-empowerment. Listeners are encouraged to take control of their own lives and pursue their goals with confidence and determination. By sharing stories of individuals who have transformed their lives through hard work and self-discovery, the podcast inspires listeners to believe in their own potential and take steps to create the life they want and to recognize that we are all capable of rewiring our thoughts and behaviors.  Finally, the podcast is focused on self-discovery. Through discussions and interviews, listeners are encouraged to explore their own values, beliefs, and desires, and to gain a deeper understanding of themselves. By reflecting on their own experiences and learning from the stories of others, listeners can gain valuable insights that can help them navigate life's challenges and live more fulfilling lives. Overall, this podcast is a powerful resource for anyone seeking inspiration, guidance, and support on their personal development journey. By exploring life's difficult lessons through inspiring stories, interviews, book clubs, and discussions, listeners can gain the tools they need to persevere through tough times, empower themselves to achieve their goals, and discover their true selves.

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