The Bedtime Edit

What's keeping you up at night? Certified Sleep Consultant and Stress Management Educator Alanna McGinn is here to help! As a mom of three teenagers navigating her own messy mid-life, she knows firsthand that a good night's sleep is a fundamental piece of the puzzle. Midlife can bring on major life transitions like career shifts, relationship changes, and don't get us started on menopause. What if you suddenly became a full-time caregiver to a parent? What if you found yourself single after a twenty year marriage? What if you're forced to reinvent yourself because you lost a job, a loved one, or an investment? Any midlife event CAN disrupt your sleep. But, it doesn't have to be a time of crisis. Let's think of midlife as a time of self-discovery, growth, and empowerment all while striving towards better sleep.  This podcast will cover all and any topics that keep you up at night. Let this be your midlife safe space; we'll share personal stories, speak to experts, and reroute this rollercoaster together. Let's develop a better understanding of our emotional, physical, spiritual, and mental health needs. Through these conversations and teachable moments, we can rewrite our midlife stories and give our sleep a full edit. It's never too late to hit backspace on the bad habits, and command a more peaceful midlife chapter. Don't sleep on this podcast! Find new episodes of The Bedtime Edit every other Monday. Follow and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts. About the Host: Alanna McGinn is the creator of the Messy Middle Sleep Solution Program, and a media Sleep Expert with the following qualifications: Certified Sleep Consultant by Family Sleep Institute Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Insomnia Certification, CCCLS Good Night Sleeper Educator Faculty Member of the Family Sleep Institute Parent Prep Educator Through her years of training, education, and experience she’s passionate about helping women struggling with midlife demands like raising teens, caring for aging parents, managing careers, and navigating perimenopause - all of which she too is navigating. She’s been there too, her messy middle involves a divorce and starting over as a single mom at 45 years old. Like so many, her sleep and well-being took a hit and she is committed to making changes to better her sleep and stress. https://alannamcginn.com/

  1. Gina Livy: The Livy Method and Midlife Weight Loss

    08/25/2025

    Gina Livy: The Livy Method and Midlife Weight Loss

    Host Alanna McGinn and guest Gina Livy discuss the challenges faced by midlife women, particularly around weight loss and menopause. They explore the creation of The Livy Method, a weight loss program designed to empower women through community support and realistic lifestyle changes. Gina shares her personal journey which lead to her curiosity surrounding weight loss while discussing the significance of community, and the hope that her program offers to those navigating similar struggles. More About Gina Livy: Gina Livy, founder and CEO of The Livy Method, is a best-selling author and keynote speaker who is transforming the way the world approaches weight loss. With her fun, honest, and engaging style, Gina has redefined weight loss as a healthy, sustainable journey—one that has restored hope among those who had given up, and empowers people to live their best lives. Over her 30-year career, Gina has helped more than 147,000 people not just lose weight but completely transform their relationship with food and their bodies. Her impact spans 55+ countries, a vibrant and growing community, and over 6.4 million podcast downloads. Discover why Gina’s unique method is resonating across the globe at https://livymethod.com/ Join the Fall Weight Loss Program: https://livymethod.com/products/weight-loss-program-fall-2025 Connect with Alanna: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thebedtimeedit.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thebedtimeedit/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://alannamcginn.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://goodnightsleepsite.com/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    49 min
  2. Dr. Deena Kara Shaffer: Learning Strategies For First Year Students (and Parents)

    06/23/2025

    Dr. Deena Kara Shaffer: Learning Strategies For First Year Students (and Parents)

    To wrap up season one of The Bedtime Edit Podcast, host Alanna McGinn welcomes learning strategist Dr. Deena Kara Shaffer. They discuss the emotional and academic challenges students (and their parents) face while transitioning to university or college with a complete guide for first-year students and the Moms & Dads! They explore strategies for procrastination, time management, and effective studying, while also addressing the emotional landscape for parents as their children leave home. Dr. Schaefer provides practical tools and resources to help both students and parents navigate this significant life change, emphasizing the importance of connection, independence, supportive tools and self-care. More About Deena and her work: From 1:1 coaching to community sessions, keynotes and training, Deena is on a full-hearted mission to share the game-changing power of learning strategies with every learner, family, and educator. She is a twice best-selling author, TEDx speaker, co-creator of the international Thriving in Action intervention, and two-time President of the Learning Specialists of Canada.  Links and Resources: www.awakenedlearning.ca "Feel Good Learning: On how to prioritise, focus, study, and learn everything better" "Raising Well Learners: Helping parents support students from stress to success" TEDx, "How to get from to-do to done" Thriving in Action Online Thriving in the Classroom What was discussed on the podcast: 1. Discount code on The Essentials: Learning Strategies for Students: BedtimeEdit15 2. Assignment calculators: University of Toronto Scarborough Campus (UTSC), Humber Polytechnic, Waterloo University. 3. NotebookLM. Chapters (00:00) Introduction to Transitioning to University Life (03:04) Understanding Academic Challenges in First Year (06:06) Procrastination and Time Management Strategies (08:57) Effective Study Techniques for Success (12:03) Utilizing Technology for Learning Efficiency (14:33) Balancing Life and Academics in University (17:41) Final Thoughts and Resources for Parents and Students (24:51) Understanding Student Study Practices (25:44) Preparing Kids for Independence (28:07) Navigating the Transition to Post-Secondary (30:54) Building Connections in University (35:17) Essential Tools for Academic Success (40:44) Supporting Parents During the Transition (43:13) Final Tips for Students and Parents Connect with Alanna: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thebedtimeedit.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thebedtimeedit/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://alannamcginn.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://goodnightsleepsite.com/⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    47 min
  3. Kyle Buchanan: Unlocking the Secrets of Gut Health

    06/09/2025

    Kyle Buchanan: Unlocking the Secrets of Gut Health

    In this conversation, host Alanna McGinn welcomes nutritional practitioner Kyle Buchanan to delve into the critical topic of gut health, exploring how digestion is affected by aging. They discuss the role of the microbiome, the impact of sleep and stress on gut health, and practical tips for improving digestion and regularity. The discussion emphasizes the interconnectedness of various health pillars and the significance of feeling good in order to lead a fulfilling life. Kyle explains the importance of hydration and nutrition for digestive health. They discuss various foods that promote regularity, the role of supplements, and herbal remedies for constipation. The conversation also touches on the use of enemas and practical tips for women to improve gut health, emphasizing the significance of digestive bitters, breath work, and fermented foods. More About Kyle Buchanan: Kyle Buchanan is a speaker, host of The Exhale on SiriusXM as well as the feelgoodery podcast, and is the resident wellness  contributor on Canada’s The Morning Show. With a background in nutrition and entertainment, Kyle brings a unique blend of honesty, humour, and nuance to his work, making complex topics accessible and engaging. A fan of the messy parts of adulthood—complete with setbacks and self-discovery—Kyle creates content that bridges both wellness and entertainment. His passion lies in providing insightful yet practical advice, empowering people to feel good and take meaningful action. Because, let’s be honest, when we feel good, we have the gumption to do good—for ourselves, and for those around us! Connect with Kyle: https://www.instagram.com/itskyleb/?hl=en https://www.kylebuchanan.ca/ Connect with Alanna: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thebedtimeedit.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thebedtimeedit/⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://alannamcginn.com/⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://goodnightsleepsite.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    46 min
  4. Don't Lose Sleep Over Your Finances with Daniela Degasperis & Erica Ehm

    05/26/2025

    Don't Lose Sleep Over Your Finances with Daniela Degasperis & Erica Ehm

    Host Alanna McGinn discusses the financial challenges women face in midlife with guests Daniela DeGasperis and Erica Ehm of DDM Group. They explore the importance of financial literacy, wealth management, and the need for open dialogue about finances in relationships. They discuss personal anecdotes, generational shifts in financial trust, the importance of financial education, and the need for women to take charge of their financial futures. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by entrepreneurs and the significance of having a holistic approach to financial planning. Takeaways Financial literacy is crucial for women in midlife. Open dialogue about finances is essential in relationships. It's important to have your own financial identity. Education is key to understanding financial strategies. Understanding risk tolerance is vital for investment decisions. Diversification is important in wealth management. Proactive financial planning can prevent future conflicts.  The generational wealth transfer is significant, with trillions moving in the coming years. Many women are unaware of the financial strategies available to them. It's important to have a holistic view of financial planning, incorporating various experts.  More About The Guests: Daniela Degasperis is the CEO of DDM Group, a wealth preservation consultancy.  She leads a team of industry experts to help clients protect and grow their wealth today to reach their financial and lifestyle goals into the future. Erica Ehm became a DDM client a year ago when she began planning for retirement. She was so blown away by how DDM has protected and grown her wealth, she joined the team as Director of Culture and Communication. https://www.ddmgroup.ca/ https://www.instagram.com/ddm.group/ Connect with Alanna: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.thebedtimeedit.com/⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thebedtimeedit/⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://alannamcginn.com/⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠https://goodnightsleepsite.com/ (00:00) Navigating Midlife Financial Challenges (06:06) The Unique Approach of DDM Group (12:03) Client Experiences and Transformations (18:07) Empowering Women in Financial Literacy (23:58) Building a Secure Financial Future (29:42) Hidden Treasures: Uncovering Family Secrets (31:04) Generational Shifts in Financial Trust (33:09) The Importance of Financial Education (37:14) Empowering Women in Midlife (42:40) Navigating Business Transitions for Women Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    47 min
  5. Menopause Expert Dr. Jennifer Zelovitzky

    05/12/2025

    Menopause Expert Dr. Jennifer Zelovitzky

    Host Alanna McGinn welcomes Dr. Jennifer Zelovitzky to delve into the complexities of menopause and how it impacts sleep for women during this stage of life. They discuss the various stages of menopause, common symptoms, and the emotional changes women experience during this transition. They also discuss hormone replacement therapy (HRT), the importance of communication in relationships, cognitive changes such as brain fog, shifts in life priorities, changes in libido, and the significance of creating a comfortable sleep environment. They also highlight practical strategies for navigating these changes together. More About Dr. Jennifer Zelovitzky: Dr. Jennifer Zelovitzky is a certified Menopause Specialist and the Clinical Director of Women’s Health at Medcan Toronto.  She is the host and co-producer of Medsplaining, a podcast and social media platform designed to help women better understand their bodies and advocate for their needs in the Canadian Healthcare system.  She is also the mom of 2 amazing daughters and 3 fur babies. Dr. Jennifer Zelovitzky's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/medsplaining/ Resources: Study Mentioned: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10487384/ More about Dr. Mary Claire Haver and her work: https://thepauselife.com/ https://thepauselife.com/pages/the-new-menopause-book Connect with Alanna below: ⁠⁠https://www.thebedtimeedit.com/⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/thebedtimeedit/⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://alannamcginn.com/⁠⁠ ⁠⁠https://goodnightsleepsite.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    43 min
  6. Happiness Expert Kathie Donovan: Letting Go of Control

    04/28/2025

    Happiness Expert Kathie Donovan: Letting Go of Control

    Host Alanna McGinn invites happiness expert Kathie Donovan to help her audience explore the concept of sustainable happiness, particularly for women in midlife. They discuss the importance of embracing all emotions, the role of control and fear in women's lives, and the significance of personal growth through challenges. They also discuss boundaries, gratitude, the role of social media in shaping self-perception, and the acceptance of imperfection in finding happiness. Kathie also provides practical strategies for letting go of control and asking for help including mindfulness and breathing techniques. More About Kathie Donovan: Happiness expert Kathie Donovan is a celebrated author, speaker, coach and broadcaster. She is the former co-host and co-producer of CTV Ottawa’s Regional Contact. She is the author of two self-published books:  Inspiration in Action: A Woman’s Guide to Happiness and Unconform: Harnessing the Radical Power of Courage. She is also an ambassador for The Wellings and a petite model for Shepherd’s Fashions in Ottawa. Kathie’s work is a call to action to unlearn what we think we know to be true, to stretch what’s possible, so that we can see our true potential and live a beautiful life of our own design. Website: www.kathiedonovan.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/kathie_donovan Facebook: www.facebook.com/kathie.donovan Resources: My Stroke of Insight: A Brain Scientist's Personal Journey https://g.co/kgs/uHRXKg3 Find out more about Alanna's Teen Sleep Program: ⁠https://goodnightsleepsite.com/programs/kid-to-teen-sleep-program/ ⁠ Connect with Alanna below: ⁠https://www.thebedtimeedit.com/⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/thebedtimeedit/⁠ ⁠https://alannamcginn.com/⁠ ⁠https://goodnightsleepsite.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    33 min

Trailer

About

What's keeping you up at night? Certified Sleep Consultant and Stress Management Educator Alanna McGinn is here to help! As a mom of three teenagers navigating her own messy mid-life, she knows firsthand that a good night's sleep is a fundamental piece of the puzzle. Midlife can bring on major life transitions like career shifts, relationship changes, and don't get us started on menopause. What if you suddenly became a full-time caregiver to a parent? What if you found yourself single after a twenty year marriage? What if you're forced to reinvent yourself because you lost a job, a loved one, or an investment? Any midlife event CAN disrupt your sleep. But, it doesn't have to be a time of crisis. Let's think of midlife as a time of self-discovery, growth, and empowerment all while striving towards better sleep.  This podcast will cover all and any topics that keep you up at night. Let this be your midlife safe space; we'll share personal stories, speak to experts, and reroute this rollercoaster together. Let's develop a better understanding of our emotional, physical, spiritual, and mental health needs. Through these conversations and teachable moments, we can rewrite our midlife stories and give our sleep a full edit. It's never too late to hit backspace on the bad habits, and command a more peaceful midlife chapter. Don't sleep on this podcast! Find new episodes of The Bedtime Edit every other Monday. Follow and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts. About the Host: Alanna McGinn is the creator of the Messy Middle Sleep Solution Program, and a media Sleep Expert with the following qualifications: Certified Sleep Consultant by Family Sleep Institute Cognitive Behaviour Therapy for Insomnia Certification, CCCLS Good Night Sleeper Educator Faculty Member of the Family Sleep Institute Parent Prep Educator Through her years of training, education, and experience she’s passionate about helping women struggling with midlife demands like raising teens, caring for aging parents, managing careers, and navigating perimenopause - all of which she too is navigating. She’s been there too, her messy middle involves a divorce and starting over as a single mom at 45 years old. Like so many, her sleep and well-being took a hit and she is committed to making changes to better her sleep and stress. https://alannamcginn.com/

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