Midlife Answers

Rachel Fortune
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Midlife Answers is a short-form midlife podcast for women navigating the messy, meaningful middle years. Through honest, unscripted conversations, we explore midlife transitions including perimenopause and menopause, relationships, confidence, wellbeing, identity, & reinvention. Each episode offers real midlife conversations with women who’ve been there (or are right in it), sharing practical advice, lived experience, & reassurance that you’re not alone. A midlife podcast for women seeking guidance, perspective, & support through life’s transitions — and the confidence to move forward.

  1. Life After Divorce: How Do I Rebuild My Life in Midlife? Emotional & Practical Steps #27

    5D AGO

    Life After Divorce: How Do I Rebuild My Life in Midlife? Emotional & Practical Steps #27

    Divorce in midlife can feel overwhelming, confusing and deeply emotional - even when it’s the right decision. In this episode of our midlife podcast for women, I’m joined by Diane, a counsellor and psychotherapist, to talk about how to rebuild your life after divorce - emotionally and practically. Many people feel pressure to “move on” quickly after a relationship ends. But divorce often brings a complex mix of grief, relief, identity shifts and practical decisions that can take time to process. Together we explore how to navigate the emotional aftermath of divorce, rebuild confidence and identity in midlife, and take manageable steps toward the next chapter of your life. On Midlife Answers, we explore real questions women face in their 40s and beyond, offering practical guidance from experts in short, focused episodes that fit into real life. Why divorce often involves a grieving process, even when it was the right decision The pressure many people feel to “be okay” quickly after divorce How divorce can impact confidence and identity in midlife Managing the practical realities of divorce without becoming overwhelmed How to recognise the difference between healing and simply going through the motions One small but powerful step you can take to begin rebuilding your life Diane is a counsellor and psychotherapist who supports people navigating major life transitions, including relationship breakdown, emotional recovery and identity shifts in midlife. Her work focuses on helping people process change, understand their emotional responses and move forward with greater clarity and self-trust. If anything discussed in this episode brings up difficult feelings for you, please consider speaking with your GP, a healthcare professional, or a qualified therapist who can provide personalised support. Have a question you’d like me to ask an expert — about midlife health, family, careers or relationships? You can submit it via the link below or DM me on Instagram @midlifeanswers If you enjoy listening to Midlife Answers and you know others who would enjoy it too, I would really appreciate your help with the below — 1/ Please subscribe to the podcast on Apple, Spotify or wherever you listen by clicking HERE 2/ Please rate and review - it really helps Midlife Answers reach more people needing that extra support in midlife. 3/ Share the love! Share or tag @midlifeanswers on IG and I'll share the love right back - maybe even get a pic of yourself listening to Midlife Answers and I will repost it. 4/ If you’re able, you can support Midlife Answers by buying me a coffee. It helps cover behind-the-scenes costs like editing, hosting and tech. No pressure at all - just a heartfelt thank you if you do. Every little bit really helps keep the podcast going. Buy Me A Coffee (or green tea!) Podcast Editor - Mike Roberts: https://vault.makingdigitalreal.co.uk

    21 min
  2. Resentment in Midlife Relationships: How to Talk to Your Partner Without Blame #26

    MAR 4

    Resentment in Midlife Relationships: How to Talk to Your Partner Without Blame #26

    Resentment in a long-term relationship can feel confusing, heavy and hard to admit out loud, especially in midlife, when hormones, work stress, caregiving and emotional load are all competing for space. In this episode of our midlife podcast for women, I’m joined by Suzette, a specialist in couples dynamics and communication, to unpack why resentment shows up in relationships, and how to talk about it without triggering defensiveness or conflict. If you’ve been feeling irritable, emotionally distant, or stuck in that low hum of frustration, this conversation will help you understand what’s really underneath it - and what to do next. In this episode, we cover: Why resentment is common in midlife relationshipsHormones, perimenopause and emotional reactivityThe difference between frustration and deeper resentmentHow to start a difficult conversation without blameWhy using “I” instead of “you” changes everythingHow to listen without interrupting or escalatingWhy apologising is just the starting point - not the endPractical ways to set the scene for productive communicationSuzette explains how resentment often builds when feelings go unspoken and why spelling things out clearly (even if we wish our partner would “just know”) leads to healthier, more connected relationships. If you’re navigating relationship challenges, midlife communication struggles, emotional distance, or feeling unsupported in your partnership, this episode offers compassionate, practical guidance in under 15 minutes. ✨ Remember: resentment isn’t uncommon - it’s how we handle it that determines whether we fuel the fire or calm the situation down. If anything discussed brings up deeper concerns, please consider speaking with your GP or a qualified healthcare professional. 🎧 Listen now and follow the link below to explore more episodes of Midlife Answers, your midlife podcast for women navigating relationships, hormones, burnout and real-life transitions. Have a question you’d like me to ask an expert - about midlife health, family, careers or relationships? You can submit it via the link below or DM me on IG @midlifeanswers A little note from me.... If you enjoy listening to Midlife Answers and you know others who would enjoy it too, I would really appreciate your help with the below -  1/ Please subscribe to the podcast on Apple, Spotify or wherever you listen by clicking HERE 2/ Please rate and review - it really helps Midlife Answers reach more people needing that extra support in midlife. 3/ Share the love! Share or tag @midlifeanswers on IG and I'll share the love right back - maybe even get a pic of yourself listening to Midlife Answers and I will repost it 4/ If you’re able, you can support Midlife Answers by buying me a coffee. It helps cover behind-the-scenes costs like editing, hosting, and tech. No pressure at all, just a heartfelt thank you if you do. Every little bit really helps keep the podcast going. Buy Me A Coffee (or green tea!) Find Out More: Suzette Castle-Mackie: Get in Touch Podcast Editor - Mike Roberts: https://vault.makingdigitalreal.co.uk

    18 min
  3. Bladder Leaks & Pelvic Discomfort in Midlife: What’s Normal and When to See a Doctor #25

    FEB 25

    Bladder Leaks & Pelvic Discomfort in Midlife: What’s Normal and When to See a Doctor #25

    Bladder leakage and pelvic discomfort are far more common in midlife than most women realise — yet they’re still rarely talked about, often dismissed, or quietly endured. In this episode of our midlife podcast for women, I’m joined by Dr Sharma, a GP specialising in menopause and women’s health, to answer a question many women ask privately: Is bladder leakage or pelvic discomfort normal in midlife — or should I see a doctor? Together, we explore why these changes can show up in your 40s and 50s, how hormones and pelvic health are involved, and how to tell the difference between what’s common and what shouldn’t be ignored. We also talk through when to seek medical advice, what support is available, and why embarrassment should never be a barrier to getting help. This is a calm, practical conversation designed to bring reassurance, clarity and next steps — without shame. In this episode, we cover: Why bladder leaks and pelvic discomfort often appear in midlifeCommon symptoms women dismiss or push throughWhat’s normal, what’s treatable, and when to see a doctorSimple first steps you can take to get supportHave a question you’d like me to ask an expert — about midlife health, family, careers or relationships? You can submit it via the link below or DM me on IG @midlifeanswers A little note from me.... If you enjoy listening to Midlife Answers and you know others who would enjoy it too, I would really appreciate your help with the below -  1/ Please subscribe to the podcast on Apple, Spotify or wherever you listen by clicking HERE 2/ Please rate and review - it really helps Midlife Answers reach more people needing that extra support in midlife. 3/ Share the love! Share or tag @midlifeanswers on IG and I'll share the love right back - maybe even get a pic of yourself listening to Midlife Answers and I will repost it 4/ If you’re able, you can support Midlife Answers by buying me a coffee. It helps cover behind-the-scenes costs like editing, hosting, and tech. No pressure at all, just a heartfelt thank you if you do. Every little bit really helps keep the podcast going. Buy Me A Coffee (or green tea!) Recommended Listening: https://linktr.ee/midlifeanswers: #22 How do I know if I’m in perimenopause, and what symptoms shouldn’t I ignore? #17 Menopause 101 with Drs Sharma & Wright Find Out More: Dr Sharma: www.spicedpearhealth.com Podcast Editor - Mike Roberts: https://vault.makingdigitalreal.co.uk

    18 min
  4. How to Handle Friendships That No Longer Fit in Midlife #24

    FEB 18

    How to Handle Friendships That No Longer Fit in Midlife #24

    Friendships changing in midlife can leave us feeling guilty, confused, or quietly sad — especially when there’s no fallout or drama to point to. In this episode of our midlife podcast for women, I’m joined by Diane, a counsellor and psychotherapist, to explore why friendships naturally shift as we grow, and how to handle relationships that no longer fit the person you’re becoming. We talk about people-pleasing, resentment, honesty, and how to let friendships evolve - or fade - without blame or unnecessary conflict. If you’ve been questioning a friendship, struggling with guilt, or wondering whether it’s okay to prioritise yourself, this conversation will help you feel clearer and more reassured. 🎧 Coming up in the next episode: a necessary conversation about bladder leakage and pelvic discomfort with Dr Sharma. A little note from me.... If you enjoy listening to Midlife Answers and you know others who would enjoy it too, I would really appreciate your help with the below - 1/ Please subscribe to the podcast on Apple, Spotify or wherever you listen by clicking HERE 2/ Please rate and review - it really helps Midlife Answers reach more people needing that extra support in midlife. 3/ Share the love! Share or tag @midlifeanswers on IG and I'll share the love right back - maybe even get a pic of yourself listening to Midlife Answers and I will repost it Find Out More: Podcast Editor - Mike Roberts: https://vault.makingdigitalreal.co.uk

    17 min
  5. Midlife Burnout: When Rest Isn’t an Option #23

    FEB 11

    Midlife Burnout: When Rest Isn’t an Option #23

    Feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or constantly on edge in midlife, but slowing down just isn’t an option? In this bite-sized episode of Midlife Answers, I’m joined by Suzette to talk honestly about midlife burnout - why it feels so intense, how it differs from stress and overwhelm, and what actually helps when rest feels impossible. We explore the silent signs of burnout in women, the role of hormones and perimenopause, and share practical tools - including 3-minute resets and tiny stabilising steps - to help you feel calmer and less overwhelmed today. In this episode, we cover: Burnout vs stress vs overwhelmWhy burnout hits harder in midlifeHormones, perimenopause and burnoutWhat to do when rest isn’t an optionSimple 5-minute nervous system resetsWhen to seek professional supportIf you’re feeling close to the edge, this conversation is for you. 🎧 Listen now — and follow the link below to explore more episodes of Midlife Answers. Don’t forget to follow and share with someone who might need this today. Listen Here and Buy Me A Coffee:  https://linktr.ee/midlifeanswers Find Out More: Suzette Castle-Mackie:https://www.counselling-directory.org.uk/counsellors/suzette-castle-mackie Editor - Mike Roberts: https://vault.makingdigitalreal.co.uk Shakti Mat: https://www.shaktimat.co.uk/

    20 min
  6. How do I know if I’m in perimenopause, and what symptoms shouldn’t I ignore? #22

    FEB 4

    How do I know if I’m in perimenopause, and what symptoms shouldn’t I ignore? #22

    Is this perimenopause - or just life? Perimenopause doesn’t always look the way we expect. It’s not just hot flushes or missed periods. For many women, the earliest signs are anxiety, low mood, exhaustion, poor sleep, brain fog, or a quiet sense that something just isn’t right…and these symptoms are often missed. In this episode of Midlife Answers, I’m joined by Dr Sharma, GP and menopause specialist, to answer one of the most common midlife questions: How do I know if I’m in perimenopause, and which symptoms shouldn’t I ignore? Together, we break down how perimenopause really shows up, why women often wait too long to recognise the signs, and what practical steps you can take to look after your health and wellbeing. In this episode, we cover: What perimenopause is and when it can startCan you be in perimenopause in your early 40s?Early and often-overlooked symptoms like anxiety, low mood, poor sleep, brain fog, and fatigueSymptoms you shouldn’t ignore, including heavy bleeding, palpitations, and persistent low moodBlood tests vs symptom-led diagnosisHow to prepare for a GP appointment and advocate for yourselfPerimenopause isn’t something to push through in silence. Noticing changes early, and taking them seriously, can make a real difference. Coming up on the next episode: Join me next week when I’ll be talking to therapist Suzette about burnout in midlife, and the importance of recognising the early signs, setting boundaries, and giving yourself permission to slow down before burnout takes hold. If you found this episode helpful, follow or subscribe to Midlife Answers, and share it with someone who could use reassurance right now. Listen Anywhere:  https://linktr.ee/midlifeanswers Recommended Listening: https://linktr.ee/midlifeanswers - Menopause 101 with Drs Sharma & Wright: a previous conversation with Dr Sharma and her business partner, Dr Wright, covering a wider range of topics including surgical menopause, testosterone, and sex and intimacy in midlife. Find Out More: Dr Sharma: www.spicedpearhealth.com Mike Roberts: https://vault.makingdigitalreal.co.uk

    25 min
  7. Facial Cupping vs Botox: Finding a Natural Midlife Glow with Sakina #21

    12/03/2025

    Facial Cupping vs Botox: Finding a Natural Midlife Glow with Sakina #21

    This week, I’m chatting with facial cupping expert Sakina about something I think so many of us in our 40s quietly wrestle with: Do I go down the tweakments route… or is there a more natural way to keep my skin feeling alive and glowing? Botox is everywhere right now - it’s almost become a casual part of getting ready. And while there’s zero judgement, I’ve found myself wondering if there’s another path… something that still makes my midlife skin look fresh, lifted, and me. That’s where facial cupping comes in. Sakina talks me through how it actually works (yes, it’s more than a TikTok trend), why it’s becoming such a powerful alternative to tweakments, and what it can do for circulation, lymphatic drainage, sculpting, and that healthy glow we all miss sometimes. We also go a bit deeper - into the mindset around aging, and the way men and women are allowed to age so differently. And I loved what Sakina had to say about developing a healthier relationship with getting older. Spoiler: it has nothing to do with creams or serums… and everything to do with surrounding yourself with people who bring out your joy. If you’re standing at that midlife crossroads and thinking, Do I need injectables, or is there something else? - this episode is such an encouraging place to start. Please do follow along for more episodes of Thriving in our 40s - it's simple, just click subscribe! Thank you. To discover more about Sakina and her work, please check out: The Facial Cupping Expert website IG: @thefacialcuppingexpert

    19 min
  8. From Spooky Stories to Self-Belief: Alex Atkinson on Writing, Creativity & Midlife Confidence #20

    11/12/2025

    From Spooky Stories to Self-Belief: Alex Atkinson on Writing, Creativity & Midlife Confidence #20

    Ever wondered how someone goes from dreaming of writing a book to actually seeing it on the shelf? Children’s author Alex Atkinson joins Thriving in Our 40s to share how she turned a simple idea into two brilliantly spooky stories, and what her writing journey can teach us about creativity, confidence, and following our passions in midlife. We talk about finding self-belief when doubt creeps in, learning to take feedback with confidence, and surrounding yourself with a community that lifts you up. Alex also shares her take on inspiring kids to fall in love with reading - and why staying curious and open-minded matters at any age. A heartfelt, funny and inspiring chat that reminds us it’s never too late to start your next chapter. Listen now! Further Reading: Buy Spooksmiths Investigate from your local bookshop Alex Atkinson Website Save the Cat Save the Cat Writes a Novel Into The Woods Write Mentor

    21 min
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About

Midlife Answers is a short-form midlife podcast for women navigating the messy, meaningful middle years. Through honest, unscripted conversations, we explore midlife transitions including perimenopause and menopause, relationships, confidence, wellbeing, identity, & reinvention. Each episode offers real midlife conversations with women who’ve been there (or are right in it), sharing practical advice, lived experience, & reassurance that you’re not alone. A midlife podcast for women seeking guidance, perspective, & support through life’s transitions — and the confidence to move forward.

Information

  • Creator
    Rachel Fortune
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    27
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Rachel Fortune
  • Show Website
    Midlife Answers