Midlife Strategies for Badass Women is the go-to podcast for bold, brilliant women over 40 who are done playing small and ready to reinvent their lives—without guilt, filters, or apologies. Hosted by Badass Midlife Strategist - Sue Willoughby, each weekly episode delivers unfiltered conversations, real stories of reinvention, and practical strategies to help you break free from the crap that’s holding you back and finally live life on your damn terms. Whether you’re navigating a midlife reset, rediscovering your passions, building confidence, or launching your next chapter—this podcast gives you the mindset shifts, clarity, and community to make it happen. 🔥 Expect: No-BS life advice and midlife strategies that actually work Inspiring interviews with women who’ve transformed their lives Soul-stirring solo episodes packed with truth and action Coaching-style episodes to help you reclaim your purpose, power, and passion This isn’t a podcast about “getting through” midlife. It’s about owning it—louder, wiser, bolder, and unapologetically YOU. Subscribe now and start rewriting the rules of what’s possible in your 40s, 50s, and beyond.
Episodes
Tuesday May 06, 2025
Tuesday May 06, 2025
What happens when you stop performing and start telling the truth—especially to yourself?
In this bold and laugh-out-loud episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby sits down with transformation coach, speaker, and Chief Disruptor Jen Vertanen for a no-filter conversation about the messy middle of healing, identity, and finally living life on your terms.
From decades of self-loathing and people-pleasing to becoming a 55-year-old woman who swears more, cares less, and lives fully, Jen shares:
-
Why your 80-year-old self should guide your decisions now (martini optional)
-
The connection between childhood wounds, CPTSD, and self-worth
-
Why healing takes time—and why it's 100% worth it
-
The B.E. DARE. CREATE. framework to stop waiting and start being unapologetically YOU
-
What horses, heart work, and holding space really have in common
Sound Bites
"I love being challenged."
"Don't diminish those turtle steps."
"It's about personal responsibility."
This is a story about taking radical responsibility, making turtle-step progress, and giving zero f*cks about what anyone else thinks. And yes, we talk about trauma, identity, healing, menopause, and even itchy ears. You’re welcome.
💥 If you’re done with checkbox living and ready to rewrite your story, this episode is your permission slip to go ALL IN.
Connect with Jen Vertanen
🔗 Learn more about Jen at
🔗 Facebook: http://facebook.com/jennifervertanen
🔗 Instagram: http://instagram.com/jenvertanen
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Jen Vertanen and Her Mission
04:41 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Empowerment
07:45 Societal Expectations and Identity Crisis
10:47 Navigating Mental Health and Emotional Wellness
13:44 Reflections on Family Dynamics and Relationships
16:43 The Importance of Hope and Resilience
19:41 The Process of Transformation and Coaching
22:37 Celebrating Small Wins in Personal Growth
26:17 Incremental Growth and Intentionality
27:59 Life's Pivot Points and Personal Evolution
29:42 The Role of Horses in Healing
31:59 Transformative Experiences with Horses
34:51 Facing Major Life Changes
38:31 The Impact of Childhood Trauma
41:02 Taking Personal Responsibility for Healing
43:57 Connecting with Jen and Final Thoughts
🔗 Connect with Sue Willoughby:
My Upcoming Retreats: https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/events
Web: https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/
LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@SueWilloughby
No comments yet. Be the first to say something!