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. Why Do I Suddenly Feel Unsure of Myself? Rebuilding Confidence in Midlife

    2D AGO

    Why Do I Suddenly Feel Unsure of Myself? Rebuilding Confidence in Midlife

    Feeling unsure of yourself can be shocking — especially when you’ve built a career, raised a family, and always tried to ‘have it together.’ In this episode of our midlife podcast for women, I’m joined by Holly, a psychotherapist specialising in self-doubt, anxiety and self-worth, and we talk about why confidence often dips in midlife — what’s happening biologically, psychologically and socially — and how to start rebuilding it. We explore why so many women in their late 30s, 40s and early 50s begin to question their decisions, their voice, and even their value — and, importantly, what you can do about it. This is a reassuring, practical conversation designed to help you feel more like yourself again — and to remind you that you’re not alone in this. In this episode, we cover: Why confidence often drops during perimenopause and midlifeThe biological, psychological and social factors at playHow self-doubt becomes more entrenched over timeThe link between stress, overwhelm and confidenceA powerful reframe: why confidence comes after action, not beforeSimple, realistic ways to start rebuilding self-trust A note on support: 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. 🎧 Listen now — and follow this link to explore more episodes of Midlife Answers. About RISE Coaching: RISE is my midlife reinvention coaching programme for women who want to rebuild confidence, reconnect with themselves, and navigate this stage of life with more clarity and self-belief. If you’ve been caring for everyone else while quietly losing yourself, this is a space to pause, reflect, and focus on what you need now. Through practical tools and supportive guidance, RISE helps you move beyond self-doubt, set boundaries without guilt, and step into a more grounded, confident version of yourself. Find out more by visiting midlifeanswers.com About Midlife Answers: Midlife Answers is a midlife podcast for women where each episode focuses on one real question about hormones, health, wellbeing and confidence — answered clearly, practically and compassionately with expert insight. Have a question? Send it via this link or DM me on Instagram @midlifeanswers — no topic is off-limits. A little note from me… If you enjoy listening to Midlife Answers and know others who would too, I’d really appreciate your support: Subscribe on Apple, Spotify or wherever you listenRate and review — it helps more women find the podcastShare or tag @midlifeanswers on InstagramSupport the podcast via Buy Me A Coffee (or green tea!) Find Out More: Holly Ziff: Psychotherapy & Counselling: https://www.hollyziff.com Podcast Editor — Mike Roberts:https://vault.makingdigitalreal.co.uk

    20 min
  2. Feeling Lost in Midlife: Why You Don’t Feel Like Yourself & How to Find Your Way Again #29

    MAR 25

    Feeling Lost in Midlife: Why You Don’t Feel Like Yourself & How to Find Your Way Again #29

    Feeling lost in midlife is more common than you might think — but it can feel incredibly isolating when you’re in it. In this episode of Midlife Answers, we explore one of the most searched and quietly felt questions:Why do I feel like I’m not myself anymore? In this episode of our midlife podcast for women, I’m joined by Suzette, a therapist specialising in identity, relationships and emotional wellbeing, to unpack what’s really going on when you feel lost — and how to start reconnecting with yourself again. We talk about the impact of midlife transitions, including hormonal changes, career shifts, family dynamics and emotional load — and why this stage of life can trigger a deeper sense of disconnection or lack of direction. In this episode, we cover: Why feeling “lost” in midlife is different from stress or burnoutMidlife identity shifts and the pressure of time and life decisionsHormones, perimenopause and emotional wellbeingGuilt, expectations and putting yourself lastSigns you may need professional supportPractical ways to reconnect with yourself todaySimple tools like the five senses exercise, gratitude and time in natureSuzette shares how feeling lost is often not a failure, but a signal that something within you is ready to change. With small, intentional steps, it is possible to find clarity, direction and a renewed sense of self. ✨ If you’re feeling disconnected, overwhelmed or unsure of your next step, this conversation will help you feel less alone — and more grounded. 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. 🎧 Listen now — and follow this link to explore more episodes of Midlife Answers. If this resonated, you might also find these episodes helpful: Burnout in Midlife: When Rest Isn’t an Option — when feeling lost is actually exhaustionResentment in Midlife Relationships — when disconnection starts showing up in your relationshipMenopause 101 — understanding the hormonal changes that can affect mood, identity and how you feel day to day About Midlife Answers Midlife Answers is a midlife podcast for women where each episode focuses on one real question about hormones, health, wellbeing and confidence — answered clearly, practically and compassionately with expert insight. Have a question? Send it via this link or DM me on Instagram @midlifeanswers — no topic is off-limits. A little note from me… If you enjoy listening to Midlife Answers and know others who would too, I’d really appreciate your support: Subscribe on Apple, Spotify or wherever you listenRate and review — it helps more women find the podcastShare or tag @midlifeanswers on InstagramSupport the podcast via Buy Me A Coffee (or green tea!) Find Out More: Suzette Castle-Mackie:https://www.counselling-directory.org.uk/counsellors/suzette-castle-mackie Podcast Editor — Mike Roberts:https://vault.makingdigitalreal.co.uk

    17 min
  3. Why Am I Gaining Weight in My 40s? Perimenopause, Hormones & Midlife Weight Gain Explained | Dr Sharma #28

    MAR 18

    Why Am I Gaining Weight in My 40s? Perimenopause, Hormones & Midlife Weight Gain Explained | Dr Sharma #28

    If you’ve been asking yourself, “Why am I gaining weight in my 40s when nothing has changed?” — you’re not alone. Many women reach midlife eating the same foods, moving their bodies in the same way, yet suddenly their weight, shape or confidence around their body feels different. It can feel confusing, frustrating, and deeply personal. In this episode of our midlife podcast for women, I’m joined by Dr Sharma of Spiced Pear Health, a GP specialising in menopause and women’s health. Together we explore why midlife weight gain happens, what’s normal during perimenopause, and when it may be worth speaking with a healthcare professional. We talk about the biological changes that occur during midlife — including hormonal fluctuations, cortisol and stress, muscle loss and metabolism — and why your body may respond differently to diet and exercise than it did in your 20s or 30s. This conversation moves away from blame or extremes and focuses instead on understanding what’s happening in your body so you can move forward with more clarity, confidence and self-compassion. In This Episode We Discuss • Why midlife weight gain commonly happens during perimenopause• How hormonal changes, cortisol and stress can influence weight around the middle• Why your body may change even if your diet and exercise habits stay the same• The connection between muscle loss, metabolism and ageing• Whether high-intensity workouts still work during perimenopause• When weight changes may be worth discussing with your GP or healthcare professional• Small, realistic steps to support your body during midlife Support 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. About Midlife Answers Midlife Answers is a midlife podcast for women where each episode focuses on one real question about hormones, health, wellbeing and confidence — answered clearly, practically and compassionately with expert insight. 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: Dr Sharma: www.spicedpearhealth.com Podcast Editor - Mike Roberts: https://vault.makingdigitalreal.co.uk

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

    MAR 11

    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
  5. 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
  6. 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
  7. 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
  8. 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
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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
    30
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Rachel Fortune
  • Show Website
    Midlife Answers

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