Midlife Strategies for Badass Women

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Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out. I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion. https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/podcast-success-call

🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥

I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40.

This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place.

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically.

👉 Hit subscribe and turn on the bell so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife—together.

Grief Has No Timeline: Navigating Loss, Energy, and Healing in Midlife

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 00:01:00 -0500

What happens when life as you knew it suddenly disappears and there is no handbook for what comes next?

In this powerful and deeply honest episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue Willoughby sits down with Stephanie Olivo to talk about grief, healing, energy, and rebuilding life after devastating loss.

Stephanie shares the story behind her podcast Discontinued, Now What?, which was born after experiencing multiple life-altering losses in a short period of time. Her stepson died from an overdose, and just over a year later, her husband died by suicide. What followed was not a neat healing arc, but a long, messy, deeply personal journey through grief, spirituality, and self-discovery.

Together, Sue and Stephanie explore why we avoid talking about death, addiction, and trauma, how unprocessed emotions live in the body, and why healing is not something you “get over,” but something you learn to live with. They dive into alternative healing modalities like Reiki, hypnotherapy, and energy work, and how curiosity and openness can create unexpected breakthroughs.

This episode is for anyone navigating grief, loss, major life transitions, or the quiet question so many women ask in midlife: Now what?

In this episode, we cover:

The losses that led Stephanie to create Discontinued, Now What?
Navigating grief after overdose and suicide
Why there is no timeline for healing
How grief and trauma live in the body
The role of Reiki, hypnotherapy, and energy work in healing
Why talking about death and addiction matters
Recognizing emotional triggers and where they live physically
Protecting your energy in relationships, work, and daily life
How sensitivity to energy shows up in unexpected places, including real estate
Why healing is a journey, not a destination

Chapters
[00:00:00] Intro & Guest Welcome

[00:03:40] Where’s the Handbook Grief Loss & Closing the Business

[00:06:19] Talking About Suicide Addiction & Creating an Outlet Through the Podcast

[00:11:47] Tools That Helped Journaling Meditation & Spiritual Connection

[00:24:41] Energy Work Reconnection & Reiki Experiences

[00:48:45] Closing Gems How to Connect & Healing Is a Journey

Resources and Links:

Website: https://www.dcnw.info/
Podcast: Discontinued, Now What?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DiscontinuedNowWhat/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_dcnw_/

Book: https://amzn.to/4qVGyV3 The Voyage and the Return: A Path to Self Discovery (contributing author)

FOLLOW and CONNECT with Sue

I'm Pod Curious! Book a Podcast Success Call - https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/podcast-success-call

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

Burning desire to start your own podcast? I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and making your passion a reality. https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/podcast-success-call

🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥

I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40.

This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place.

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically.

👉 Hit subscribe so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife—together.

Your Parents’ Pain Is Not Yours to Carry: Healing Trauma at Any Age

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 00:01:00 -0500

What if wisdom doesn’t come from age alone but from what you’ve survived, questioned, and chosen to heal?

In this deeply moving episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue Willoughby sits down with Lexi Benitez, a 23-year-old podcaster whose life experience, emotional intelligence, and self-awareness rival that of women decades older.

Lexi shares her story of being raised by her great-grandparents, navigating parental incarceration and deportation, losing the woman who raised her just before graduating high school, and becoming a surrogate caretaker for her younger siblings at an age when most people are still figuring themselves out.

She opens up about depression, suicidal ideation, leaving the Mormon church, and the moment she realized that her parents’ pain was not hers to carry. That realization came during an unexpected and isolating season working on an oil rig in North Dakota, where distance, silence, and support from the right people helped her reconnect with herself and begin healing.

This conversation explores forgiveness without obligation, identity beyond trauma, self-esteem that does not depend on external validation, and why choosing to live for yourself can be the most radical act of all.

Whether you are 23 or 63, this episode is a reminder that healing has no timeline and your past does not get to decide your future.

In this episode, we cover:

Growing up fast and healing generational trauma as the oldest daughter
How Lexi broke free from resentment and redefined her role in the family
The emotional toll of religious trauma and leaving the Mormon church
Coping with grief, depression, and two suicide attempts
Why isolation on an oil rig became the catalyst for inner transformation
The difference between ego-based confidence and true self-worth
How podcasting became Lexi’s purpose and platform for healing
The role of mentorship, affirmations, and spirituality in personal growth
Advice for those carrying emotional burdens that aren’t theirs to hold
Becoming a life coach and turning pain into purpose

Chapters

[00:00:00] Lexi's First Podcast Guest Appearance
[00:02:27] Childhood, Loss and Stepping Into Survival Mode
[00:08:15] Forgiveness, Boundaries and Reclaiming Her Role
[00:12:59] Depression, Suicide Attempts and Choosing Life
[00:22:52] Oil Rig Epiphany and Birth of a Podcast
[00:33:28] Purpose, Podcasting and What’s Next

Connect with Lexi Benitez:

Lexi Benitez: https://open.spotify.com/show/6VHVXzEgJxsqDmQ8Eml4No

Website: https://sincerelyselfpodcast.com
Instagram: https://instagram.com/lexbenitez_/

YouTube: https://youtube.com/@Sincerelyself
TikTok: https://tiktok.com/@lexbenitezz?

FOLLOW and CONNECT with Sue

I'm Pod Curious! Book a Podcast Success Call - https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/podcast-success-call

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥

I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40.

This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place.

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically.

👉 Hit subscribe so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife—together.

Employee Mindset vs CEO Mindset | Which One Are You Stuck In?

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 03:01:00 -0500

What if midlife is not the time to play it safe, but the moment you finally step into visibility, leadership, and bigger goals?

In this inspiring episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue Willoughby sits down with entrepreneur and co-founder of the Million Dollar Mom Society to talk about mindset shifts, visibility, and what it really takes to move from employee thinking to CEO thinking in midlife.

Anisa shares her journey from a six-figure corporate career in a male-dominated industry to building a seven-figure business in just one year. She opens up about scarcity mindset, grief, personal development, and the courage it takes to give yourself permission to want more.

This conversation dives deep into why visibility is not about fame or followers, but about positioning, consistency, and planting seeds long before you see results. Anisa breaks down how women can grow audiences, leverage collaboration, and stop waiting for confidence before taking action.

If you are a midlife woman feeling the pull toward something bigger, but fear, self-doubt, or comfort has been keeping you stuck, this episode will stretch you in the best way.

In this episode, we cover:

Why midlife often triggers a desire for deeper purpose and impact
How Anisa shifted from employee mindset to CEO mindset
Scarcity thinking, personal development, and breaking generational patterns
Why visibility is about consistency, not going viral
How collaboration accelerates growth faster than going it alone
Building a seven-figure business without a massive social following
Why email lists matter more than social media platforms
The fear women face around being seen and taking up space
Why courage matters more than confidence
Playing the long game and trusting compound growth

Chapters

[00:00:00] Opening and episode framing

[00:07:20] COVID pivot and mindset roots

[00:14:43] Rapid group growth and list building

[00:17:17] Visibility ecosystem and tactics

[00:23:33] Compounding growth and long game

[00:28:41] Fear, courage, and bigger rooms

[00:34:51] Network like a CEO; wrap-up

Connect with Anisa Crespo:

Website: https://www.milliondollarmom.org/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/anisacrespo

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keepingupwiththecrespos/

Book: https://a.co/d/dTOwpk4

Free Gift: https://www.milliondollarmom.org/milliondollarminimind

FOLLOW and CONNECT with Sue

I'm Pod Curious! Book a Podcast Success Call - https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/podcast-success-call

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥

I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40.

This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place.

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically.

👉 Hit subscribe so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife—together.

Why You're Burned Out Has Nothing to Do With Motivation - Mel McSherry

Tue, 27 Jan 2026 00:01:00 -0500

What if the reason you feel exhausted, scattered, or behind has nothing to do with motivation and everything to do with how you are wired?

In this insightful and energizing episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue Willoughby welcomes Human Design practitioner Mel McSherry back to the show to unpack why January pressure, hustle culture, and one-size-fits-all goal setting leave so many midlife women burned out.

Mel explains how Human Design offers a practical framework for understanding your energy, decision-making style, and natural pace. Together, Sue and Mel explore why forcing yourself into systems that are not aligned with your design leads to exhaustion, self-doubt, and constant comparison.

From generators and projectors to manifestors and reflectors, this episode breaks down the five Human Design types in a way that is clear, relatable, and immediately useful. You will learn why waiting, resting, responding, or informing are not weaknesses, but strategic strengths when used correctly.

This conversation is especially powerful for midlife women who feel pressure to have everything figured out by January 1st and are tired of setting goals that never quite stick.

In this episode, we cover:

Why January goal pressure does not work for most people
The difference between knowing your why and understanding your how
How Human Design explains burnout, decision fatigue, and overextension
The five Human Design types and their core strategies
Why projectors burn out when they try to keep up with generators
How waiting, resting, and responding can be powerful strategies
Why comparison on social media is misleading and harmful
How Human Design supports sustainable business and life decisions
Why trusting yourself is the most important skill to develop in midlife

Chapters:

[00:00:00] Introduction and episode setup
[00:03:37] New Year energy, timing, and resolutions vs intentions
[00:10:00] What human design is and how it helps
[00:13:47] Working with strategy: waiting, boundaries, and conditioning
[00:20:51] The five human design types and their strategies
[00:26:11] Centers, signatures, and conditioning vs personality tests
[00:34:44] Decision-making authorities and practical application; closing advice and links

Resources and Links - Connect with Mel:

Website: https://www.melmcsherry.com/
Virtual Coffee Chats: https://virtualcoffeewithmel.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mel_mcsherry
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melmcsherry
Previous Episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-your-true-potential-with-human-design-with/id1753943662?i=1000688811681

FOLLOW and CONNECT with Sue

I'm Pod Curious! Book a Podcast Success Call - https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/podcast-success-call

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥

I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40.

This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place.

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically.

👉 Hit subscribe and turn on the bell so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife—together.

Your Nervous System Won't Let You Succeed (Until You Do This)

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 00:01:00 -0500

What if the reason your goals keep falling apart has nothing to do with discipline, motivation, or willpower?

In this powerful and practical episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue Willoughby welcomes somatic practitioner and intuitive Liz Potter back to the show to talk about why most New Year’s goals fail and what actually works instead.

Liz breaks down the nervous system science behind resolutions, burnout, and what she calls functional freeze. Together, Sue and Liz explore why setting goals from overwhelm, pressure, or social conditioning almost guarantees self-sabotage and how learning to listen to your body changes everything.

This conversation introduces Liz’s SAFE framework for goal setting, which prioritizes safety, alignment, felt sense, and embodied receiving. It is a radically kinder approach that helps women move forward without forcing, collapsing, or burning out.

If you are a midlife woman who feels stuck, exhausted, or frustrated by goals that never seem to stick, this episode offers relief, clarity, and a grounded way forward.

In this episode, we cover:

Why resolutions fail when they are driven by pressure or culture
The difference between goals and intentions and why language matters
What functional freeze looks like and why so many women live in it
How overwhelm disconnects the brain from the body
Why your nervous system must consent to your goals
Liz’s SAFE framework for sustainable goal setting
Why accountability partners often backfire
When sharing goals can actually drain momentum
How rest, timing, and seasonal energy support real change
Why safety can never be the collateral damage of growth

Resources mentioned:

Connect with Liz
https://theselfresourced.com/

Previous Episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rewire-your-nervous-system-how-intuition-energy-healing/id1753943662?i=1000728004667

Chapters

[00:00:00] Introduction and guest re-introduction
[00:03:12] Resolutions vs intentions; social pressure
[00:06:38] Nervous system consent and steps
[00:12:05] Somatic communication and SAFE framework
[00:22:01] Iterate; avoid functional freeze; rest
[00:38:59] Preparing during the pause; boundaries
[00:52:23] Safety first; cues, wrap-up, promos

FOLLOW and CONNECT with Sue

I'm Pod Curious! Book a Podcast Success Call - https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/podcast-success-call

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥

I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40.

This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place.

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically.

👉 Hit subscribe, send a 5🌟 rating, review, and share with a friend so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife together.

Sober Curious?: How Midlife Women Can Rethink Alcohol Without Shame

Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:01:00 -0500

What if questioning your relationship with alcohol doesn’t mean you have a problem — it just means you’re paying attention?

In this honest and eye-opening episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue Willoughby sits down with alcohol relationship coach and host of the Sober and Lit podcast, Susan Larkin, for a compassionate, no-shame conversation about gray area drinking — the space where many successful midlife women quietly wonder, “Is this still serving me?”

Susan shares her personal journey of questioning her own drinking, the shame and self-blame that kept her stuck for years, and why the all-or-nothing narrative around alcohol stops so many women from getting the support they actually need. Together, Sue and Susan unpack how alcohol often becomes a coping mechanism for stress, anxiety, loneliness, and life transitions — and why curiosity, not labels, is the most powerful place to start.

This episode is not about telling you to quit drinking. It’s about giving you information, perspective, and permission to explore your relationship with alcohol in a way that feels empowering and self-directed.

🔥 In this episode, you’ll learn:

What gray area drinking really is — and why so many midlife women fall into it
Why shame keeps women stuck in negative habit loops
How alcohol quietly affects anxiety, depression, sleep, and intuition
The difference between “high functioning” and truly thriving
Why alcohol-free doesn’t have to mean isolation or deprivation
How to get curious about the jobs you’ve given alcohol in your life
Why taking a break can be the most revealing experiment of all

If you’ve ever Googled “Do I drink too much?”, felt a quiet heaviness after drinking, or wondered why something that once felt fun no longer does — this conversation will resonate deeply.

Connect with Susan Larkin
Website: https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com/1drinklesswithsusan1

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/susanlarkincoaching/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drinklesswithsusan

Book(s): https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com/the-freedom-formula-rewire-regulate-and-rise

Podcast: Sober and Lit https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sober-lit-podcast/id1723773456

Free Gift: https://www.susanlarkincoaching.com/afsociallife

Chapters

[00:00:00] Welcome and guest introduction
[00:02:35] Susan’s story and philosophy
[00:06:13] Family impact and hidden baggage
[00:15:16] Connection, desire, and sobriety framing
[00:26:36] Navigating social life without alcohol
[00:35:53] Midlife trends, risks, and accelerators
[00:41:24] Culture, marketing, and coping patterns
[00:48:18] Closing advice, resources, and outro

FOLLOW and CONNECT with Sue

I'm Pod Curious! Book a Podcast Success Call - https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/podcast-success-call

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥

I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40.

This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place.

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically.

👉 Hit subscribe, send a 5🌟 rating, review, and share with a friend so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife together.

Breaking Through Midlife Paralysis with Emily Schickli

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 03:01:00 -0500

What if your exhaustion isn’t a failure but a message? And what if your next chapter doesn’t require burning your life down, just listening more closely to your body?

In this powerful episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue Willoughby sits down with Speaking and Visibility Coach Emily Schickli to unpack burnout, nervous system regulation, passion projects, and why midlife is the perfect time to stop pushing and start aligning.

Emily shares her journey from tech burnout and chronic stress to creating a life and business rooted in clarity, capacity, and confidence.

Together, Sue and Emily explore how women can reconnect with their bodies, follow the breadcrumbs of curiosity, and experiment their way into purpose without overwhelming pressure.

This is not about quitting your job overnight or reinventing yourself through hustle. It’s about learning to regulate your nervous system, reclaim your energy, and create space for what genuinely lights you up.

In this episode, you’ll learn:
☑️Why burnout is often a nervous system issue, not a motivation problem
☑️How to recognize the “feather, brick, and Mack truck” signals from your body
☑️What nervous system regulation actually looks like in real life
☑️Why passion projects increase energy instead of draining it
☑️How small, low-pressure experiments lead to lasting clarity in midlife

If you’re a woman in midlife feeling tired, disconnected, or unsure what’s next, this conversation offers relief, permission, and a grounded path forward.

Chapters
[00:00:00] Opening, show intro, and guest introduction
[00:03:47] Emily’s journey from tech burnout to coaching
[00:11:00] Modalities blend and Human Design discussion
[00:15:28] Three-phase method: clarity, capacity, confidence
[00:20:00] Who Emily helps and regulation-first approach
[00:23:50] Nervous system regulation demo, havening, and somatics
[00:37:22] The Compass Club: structure and community
[00:41:26] Passion projects: definition, examples, and integration
[00:52:13] Closing takeaways, free kit, links, and promo

Connect with Emily Schickli
🔗Choose-Your-Own-Adventure Stress Relief Ritual Kit: https://www.emilyschickli.com/offers/KxLTnVz6/
🔗The 7 Passion Projects for More Purpose, Energy & Time Freedom Guide & Training: https://emilyschickli.com/7-passion-projects
🔗Explore The Compass Club and other ways to work with Emily: https://emilyschickli.com
🔗YouTube: https://youtube.com/@MindBodyDharma
🔗Instagram: https://instagram.com/emilyschickli

I'm Pod Curious! Book a Podcast Success Call - https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/podcast-success-call

FOLLOW and CONNECT with Sue

Website - https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥

I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40.

This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place.

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically.

👉 Hit subscribe, send a 5🌟 rating, review, and share with a friend so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife together.

Top 10 Midlife Strategies - 2025 Countdown

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 03:27:25 -0500

🎙️ Top 10 Episodes of 2025 🥳

Midlife Strategies for Badass Women

As we close out 2025, this special countdown episode highlights the conversations that resonated most deeply with our community of bold, midlife women.

These are the stories that sparked courage, challenged comfort zones, and reminded us what’s possible when we stop playing small and start listening to ourselves.

This is not about perfection.
It’s about truth, resilience, and choosing yourself.

Let’s count them down.

🔟 #10 – Kristen Chimack

The Cost of Staying: Why Playing It Safe Is Riskier Than You Think

Kristen Chimack joins the show to unpack the hidden risks of staying comfortable. This conversation is a powerful reminder that safety can quietly turn into stagnation and that growth often requires courage before confidence.

🎧 Listen to the episode:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cost-of-staying-why-playing-it-safe-is-riskier-than-you-think/id1753943662?i=1000703563228

🔗 Connect with Kristen:
Website: https://kristenschimack.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenschimack/

9️⃣ #9 – Betsy Pepine

Breaking Free: Overcoming Life’s Boxes

Betsy Pepine explores the invisible boxes we inherit, accept, and enforce in our own lives. This episode challenges listeners to question expectations and redefine success on their own terms.

🎧 Listen to the episode:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/breaking-free-overcoming-lifes-boxes-with-betsy-pepine/id1753943662?i=1000695780954

🔗 Connect with Betsy:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/betsypepine

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betsypepine?igsh=Zm1sMWRhdDk3djB2

YouTube: @BetsyPepine

8️⃣ #8 – Ruth E. Wilson

Conquering Clouds: Wisdom, Adventure, and Spirit-Led Living

Ruth E. Wilson brings a grounded and soulful perspective on adventure, intuition, and living in alignment. This conversation is for anyone feeling the pull toward something more meaningful.

🎧 Listen to the episode:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/conquering-clouds-wisdom-adventure-and-spirit-led/id1753943662?i=1000708288683

🔗 Connect with Ruth:
Web: https://ruthewilson.com
Order her book Conquering Clouds - https://a.co/d/7Fe7Wlx

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ruth.wilson.54379

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthwilson6087/

7️⃣ #7 – Jen Aks

The Body Knows: Reclaiming Confidence and Connection

Jen Aks reminds us that healing is not just mental; it is physical. This episode explores somatic awareness and how reconnecting with the body can restore confidence, safety, and trust.

🎧 Listen to the episode:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-body-knows-reclaiming-confidence-connection/id1753943662?i=1000731759988

🔗 Connect with Jen:

Free Gifts: The Power of Gesture®, my signature bodyset practice https://bonus.jenaks.com/into-to-the-power-video-page

Complimentary Live Gesture Workshop - Every Tuesday at 11:00EST - https://book.jenaks.com/free-live-gesture-workshop-page

🔗 Website: https://jenaks.com/

🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennferaks

🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jen_aks

📚 Grab her book Your Body is Speaking - Book page: https://yourbodyisspeaking.org/ 🎥 Watch her TEDx Talk: The Body’s Hidden Intelligence – From Mindset to Bodyset - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfZGY1mAbWs

6️⃣ #6 – Liz Potter

Rewire Your Nervous System: Intuition and Energy Healing

Liz Potter dives into nervous system regulation, intuition, and what it really takes to feel safe enough to expand. A favorite for listeners navigating stress, burnout, and growth.

🎧 Listen to the episode:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rewire-your-nervous-system-how-intuition-energy-healing/id1753943662?i=1000728004667

🔗 Connect with Liz:

✨ Bonus: Learn how Liz uses intuitive frequency reading to detect imbalances in the body—and why the “woo” and the science aren’t as far apart as you think.

🎧 If you’re a woman over 40 who feels stuck, scattered, or soul-tired… This episode is your wake-up call to regulate, reclaim, and rise.

📲 Work with Liz or learn more at https://lizpotterspiritmedium.com/

5️⃣ #5 – Becky Livingston

If Not Now, When: Reclaiming Life Through Slow Living

Becky Livingston shares a refreshing perspective on slowing down in a world that glorifies hustle. This episode invites listeners to reclaim their time, energy, and presence.

🎧 Listen to the episode:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/if-not-now-when-reclaiming-life-healing-through-slow/id1753943662?i=1000736232726

🔗 Connect with Becky:

🌍 Learn more at http://www.beckylivingston.com

📚 Read The Suitcase and the Jar: Travels with a Daughter’s Ashes - https://a.co/d/7q5iLbX

📱 Follow Becky on Socials
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beckylivingston23/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/vitaltraveljourneysforwomen

🌟 Special Offer (10% discount on a 1-hour consult) Journey Clarity Consult Link: https://buy.stripe.com/14k6qW4m13Zd7VCcMM Use Code: BADASS10

4️⃣ #4 – Jennifer Spor

Burnout to Breakthrough: A Spiritual Awakening at Midlife

Jennifer Spor delves into how burnout can transform into a pivotal moment instead of a stalemate. This conversation speaks to the woman who knows something has to change.

🎧 Listen to the episode:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/burnout-to-breakthrough-a-spiritual-awakening-at-midlife/id1753943662?i=1000704419024

🔗 Connect with Jennifer:
Website Link: https://www.jenniferspor.com/

Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/JenniferSporCoaching

Instagram Link: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer_spor/

3️⃣ #3 – Dana & Krisanna

Rescued Hearts: How Horses’ Healing Love Changed Everything

Dana and Krisanna share the deeply moving story behind Rescued Hearts. This episode explores grief, healing, and the extraordinary power of the horse-human connection.

🎧 Listen to the episode:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rescued-hearts-how-horses-healing-love-changed-everything/id1753943662?i=1000714622239

🔗 Connect with Rescued Hearts:

🌐 Website: https://www.rescuedheartsfilm.com

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rescuedheartsfilm

📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rescuedheartsfilm

🎥 YouTube: Live Wild Films

2️⃣ #2 – Erin Washington

From Perfectionist to Purpose

Erin Washington shares her journey from striving for perfection to living with intention. This episode resonated strongly with women ready to release control and trust themselves.

🎧 Listen to the episode:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/from-perfectionist-to-purpose-how-erin-washington-found/id1753943662?i=1000737211499

🔗 Connect with Erin:

Podcast: thERINpy with Erin Washington https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/therinpy-with-erin-washington/id1530232466
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therinpy_with_erin_washington

The Blue Butterfly Foundation Inc.: https://thebluebutterflies.org/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thERINpypodcast

Books: From Pain to Purpose: Finding Meaning in the Mess https://a.co/d/8Uj6xUc

Squats and Margaritas: A Journey to Finding Balance https://a.co/d/ivcVhnd

🥇 #1 – Dianette Wells

Another Step Up the Mountain: Adventure, Loss, and Living

The most listened-to episode of 2025. Dianette Wells shares a powerful story of resilience, loss, and choosing to keep moving forward even when the path is uncertain.

🎧 Listen to the episode:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/another-step-up-the-mountain-adventure-loss-living/id1753943662?i=1000727011658

🔗 Connect with Dianette:
Website: https://dianettewells.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DianetteWellsEnduranceAthlete
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dianettewells/
📖Get her Book: Another Step Up the Mountain - https://a.co/d/cK9Ovl6

✨ Closing Note

If this episode inspired you, share it with a woman who needs a reminder that it is not too late to choose herself.

And if you are ready for more honest conversations, grounded wisdom, and bold midlife strategy, be sure to follow Midlife Strategies for Badass Women wherever you listen to podcasts.

FOLLOW and CONNECT

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unlocking-your-true-potential-with-human-design-with/id1753943662?i=1000688811681

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

Love, Light, and Letting Go A Holiday Message for Midlife Women

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 02:38:54 -0500

What if this holiday season didn’t require perfection, pressure, or pushing at all?

In this special solo holiday episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue Willoughby invites you to slow down, exhale, and remember what actually matters as the year comes to a close.

Reflecting on a year of experimentation, unmet expectations, and powerful personal growth, Sue shares what happens when we stop forcing outcomes and start trusting ourselves. From lessons learned through Human Design, to letting go of hustle and control, to tender memories of childhood Christmas traditions, this episode is a gentle reminder that presence beats perfection every time.

Sue also speaks candidly about holiday stress, family dynamics, and the pressure to overdo and overgive, offering permission to simplify, choose connection over obligation, and honor your own nervous system during a busy season.

This episode is not about productivity or reinvention. It’s about love, light, memory, and easing into the new year with grace.

Perfect for anyone who feels overstimulated, sentimental, reflective, or quietly hopeful this time of year.

"Unlocking Your True Potential with Human Design" with Mel McSherry

Connect with Sue
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
Podcast: https://www.midlifebadasswomen.com/

Trauma, Soul, and Second Chances: What Healing Really Requires in Midlife with Dr. Kirsten Viola Harrison

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 03:01:00 -0500

What if the path to healing trauma isn’t just psychological—but soulful, relational, and deeply human?

In this profound episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue Willoughby sits down with trauma psychologist, author, and Soulwise Solutions founder Dr. Kirsten Viola-Harrison for a conversation that bridges science, spirituality, trauma, and compassion in a way few are brave enough to explore.

With over 35 years of experience working with complex PTSD, dissociative identity disorder, schizophrenia, and near-death experiencers, Dr. Harrison shares how her personal life—including profound loss, caregiving, and an unexpected relationship with an unhoused, intersex woman named Sean/a—reshaped everything she thought she knew about healing, resilience, and consciousness.

Together, Sue and Dr. Harrison explore how trauma fragments the human experience, why healing must involve dignity and relationship, and what happens when we take a chance on people society has written off. From near-death experiences to equine-assisted healing, from homelessness to authorship, this episode is a masterclass in compassion-led transformation

This conversation is for women in midlife who sense there is more—more meaning, more nuance, more possibility—and are ready to expand how they understand trauma, identity, and the human spirit.

Connect with Dr. Kirsten Viola Harrison

Website: https://soulwisesolutions.com/

Book: I, Sean/a: The Story of A Homeless Intersex Woman Who Inspired A Community https://a.co/d/fy0nH9g

Chapters
[00:00:00] January pod-curious Q&A; launch 2026
[00:00:48] Midlife Strategies intro; Sue’s mission
[00:01:27] Guest bio: trauma meets spirituality
[00:03:01] Why trauma? Personal path and losses
[00:09:04] Energy, horses, and Soulwise approach
[00:14:01] Meeting Shauna; identity, community, care
[00:21:32] Travel, book idea, intersex advocacy
[00:30:09] Belonging, etiquette, and perspective-taking
[00:35:05] Current focus, spirituality, research, resources

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥

I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40.

This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place.

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically.

👉 Hit subscribe and turn on the bell so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife—together.

Self-Worth vs. Self-Esteem: What You're Getting Wrong with Deborah Weed

Tue, 09 Dec 2025 03:01:00 -0500

When was the last time you felt fully aligned, body, mind, and heart?

In this soul-stirring episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, host Sue Willoughby sits down with author, producer, and creative visionary Deborah Weed, the powerhouse behind Paisley’s Last Quill, a children’s book-turned-Broadway-bound musical about reclaiming self-worth and personal power.

Deborah’s story takes us from the corporate world to the depths of a mysterious illness, misdiagnosis, and loss, all of which forced her to rebuild from the inside out. Through that journey, she discovered the difference between self-esteem and self-worth and how true power begins when we stop proving and start aligning.

Together, Sue and Deborah dive deep into what it means to lose your voice, give away your “quills,” and finally find your way back to yourself.

✨ In this episode, you’ll hear:

The life-changing difference between self-esteem and self-worth
How corporate success can disconnect us from our hearts and how to come home again
Why women give away their “quills” to belong (and how to get them back)
How Deborah turned her pain into a musical that empowers others to reclaim their voices
The truth about failure, creativity, and why alignment, not achievement, is the key to wholeness

This is more than a conversation; it’s a creative call to rise, reclaim your worth, and live from your heart, quills up.

Chapters

[00:00:00] Opening: self-worth teaser and intro
[00:02:22] From empath to corporate identity
[00:05:57] Health crisis and self-worth revealed
[00:08:26] Misdiagnoses, invalidation, vow to act
[00:11:49] From pain to purpose: Paisley conceived
[00:14:40] Paisley’s world, themes, and reception
[00:18:00] Strategy to stage: budget and album
[00:22:22] Practical empowerment and alignment
[00:28:28] People-pleasing roots, badass redefined
[00:32:48] Alignment metaphors: horses and eye test
[00:37:25] Wrap-up: website, talent call, final advice

Connect with Deborah Weed
Website: http://www.paisleysfashionforest.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deborah.weed.1
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deborah.weed/

FOLLOW and CONNECT
Website - https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/
Facebook - hthttps://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥

I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40.

This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place.

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically.

👉 Hit subscribe and turn on the bell so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife—together.

Fear, Faith & Rewiring Your Mind: Drenda Thomas on Becoming Limitless in Midlife

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 03:01:00 -0500

If you’ve ever felt stuck, silenced, or suffocated by old beliefs and expectations, this episode will feel like oxygen.

In this powerful conversation on Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue sits down with bestselling author, transformational coach, and BS-buster Drenda Thomas to unpack what she calls “the real BS”, the Beliefs and Stories that shape our decisions, sabotage our confidence, and keep us playing small.

Growing up in a rigid, high-control religious environment, Drenda was taught to stay quiet, obey, and never question authority. Later, as a woman in law enforcement and corporate leadership, she learned to overperform, overcompensate, and ignore her intuition until she finally hit a breaking point.

In this conversation, Drenda shares how subconscious programming, fear-based narratives, and inherited limitations quietly run our lives and how we can reclaim our power through awareness, pattern interruption, and building new beliefs that actually support who we’re becoming.

🔥 In this episode, we dig into:
- The difference between stories and truth and how to challenge your inner critic
- How childhood conditioning quietly controls adult behavior
- Why women overperform and overgive (and how to stop)
- How fear disguises itself as logic, timing, or “being responsible”
- What hypnosis taught Drenda about money, self-worth, and freedom
- Why failure is an “unexpected outcome.”
- How to break cycles of self-sabotage and build unshakeable confidence

This episode is a must-listen for any woman ready to ditch the BS, rewire her beliefs, and step into a limitless midlife.

Connect with Drenda!
Website: https://www.drendathomasrichards.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drendathomasrichards/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drendathomasrichards

Grab her free Sacred Soul Detox Guide: https://www.drendathomasrichards.com/sacred-soul-detox-opt-in

Book: Dare to Remember: Uncover Who You Were Before the BS - https://a.co/d/8GK6R5v

Chapters
[00:00:00] Intro and open
[00:02:21] Background: religion and questioning
[00:06:09] Early career in law enforcement
[00:07:31] From ministry to mindset shift
[00:10:50] Money beliefs and women’s narratives
[00:17:25] Choice, fear, and reframing tools
[00:28:22] Current work and client focus
[00:33:48] Renaming failure, evaluating wisely
[00:37:51] Wrap-up, resources, and advice

FOLLOW and CONNECT
Website - https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥

I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40.

This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place.

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically.

👉 Hit subscribe and turn on the bell so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife—together.

Now What? Finding Joy, Purpose & Resilience After Loss with Lisa Boehm

Tue, 25 Nov 2025 03:01:00 -0500

What happens when life as you know it ends in an instant — and you have to decide what comes next?

In this powerful and heart-centered episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue sits down with grief coach, author, and speaker Lisa Boehm, whose journey through loss reshaped everything she thought she knew about life, identity, and resilience.

After losing her 17-year-old daughter Katie in a tragic accident, Lisa faced a choice: stay stuck in the grief that consumed her, or find a new way forward. Her path led her to write Journey to Healing: A Mother’s Guide to Navigating Grief, and now her upcoming book Now What? — a guide for anyone facing change, loss, or uncertainty in midlife.

Lisa and Sue talk about the myths of resilience, the healing power of curiosity, and how joy — even in small doses — can be a life-saving force.

✨ In this episode:

Why “bouncing back” is the wrong idea about resilience
How grief transforms every layer of identity — and what to do with that
The 1% shifts that move you forward when the mountain feels too big
The healing power of service and honoring your loved one through action
How joy, curiosity, and small adventures can reignite your spirit

This isn’t a conversation about loss — it’s about life. And it’s your reminder that no matter what happens, there’s always a next step.

📬 Connect with Lisa directly at lisa@lisakboehm.com
📚 Read Journey to Healing: A Mother’s Guide to Navigating Grief https://a.co/d/ix8EbVC Join the Waitlist for: Now What? The Courage to Rise after Everything Changes https://lisakboehm.kartra.com/page/Nowwhat

🌿 Learn more at https://www.lisakboehm.com

Insta: https://www.instagram.com/lisaboehmofficial/

FB: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/griefsupportformoms

[00:00:00] Introducing Lisa and her resilience work
[00:02:24] Podcast intro: Midlife Strategies for Badass Women
[00:04:36] Lisa’s story: losing her 17-year-old daughter
[00:07:44] Writing the first book on grief
[00:11:48] Midlife identity shifts and grief’s broader relevance
[00:13:16] New book “Now What?” and life transitions
[00:15:08] Baby steps, 1% shifts, and manageable change
[00:19:19] Letting go of “what ifs” and reclaiming agency
[00:21:27] Introducing resilience discussion
[00:22:04] Redefining resilience beyond “bouncing back”
[00:26:03] Non-linear healing and messy growth
[00:28:09] Ad break: Podcasting for Real Estate Pros
[00:29:43] Joy and fun as the missing piece
[00:31:26] Micro-adventures and scheduling fun
[00:34:20] Curiosity, exploration, and everyday wonder
[00:37:39] Lisa’s current transition and midlife adventure
[00:39:21] Loss as catalyst and living for today
[00:41:01] Advice for those feeling stuck and joyless
[00:42:19] Choosing joy, curiosity, and small experiments
[00:43:49] Closing, contact info, and final message

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥

I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40.

This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place.

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically.

👉 Hit subscribe and turn on the bell so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife—together.

From Perfectionist to Purpose: How Erin Washington Found Freedom in Midlife

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 03:01:00 -0500

What happens when the life you built stops fitting the woman you’ve become?

In this candid and powerful episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue sits down with podcaster, author, and speaker Erin Washington — host of ThERINpy with Erin Washington (formerly Squats and Margaritas) — to talk about shedding perfectionism, healing from disordered eating, and finding freedom on the other side of “having it all.”

A former D1 soccer player, NFL wife, and mom of two, Erin opens up about her journey from overachieving and overdrinking to living authentically and helping others do the same. Through vulnerability and humor, she shares how letting go of who she thought she should be led her to her true purpose — empowering women and teen girls to embrace imperfection, self-worth, and balance.

🔥 In this episode:

How identity and self-worth get tangled in achievement
Breaking free from perfectionism and “good girl” programming
Sobriety, self-acceptance, and rebuilding from the inside out
Why midlife reinvention is messy — and worth it
How to model confidence and authenticity for the next generation

Erin’s story reminds us that balance isn’t a myth — it’s an evolution.
And when we stop hiding the hard stuff, we make space for healing, humor, and genuine joy.

Connect with Erin:

Podcast: thERINpy with Erin Washington https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/therinpy-with-erin-washington/id1530232466
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therinpy_with_erin_washington

The Blue Butterfly Foundation Inc.: https://thebluebutterflies.org/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thERINpypodcast

Books: From Pain to Purpose: Finding Meaning in the Mess https://a.co/d/8Uj6xUc

Squats and Margaritas: A Journey to Finding Balance https://a.co/d/ivcVhnd

Chapters

00:00:00] Authenticity and alignment teaser
[00:03:03] Erin’s journey and origin story
[00:08:23] Balance vs restriction; pandemic habits
[00:14:44] Midlife identity and relationships
[00:28:03] Purpose, signs, and Blue Butterfly
[00:35:19] Stepping from excellent to exceptional
[00:48:02] Intuition, sobriety, and wrap-up

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥

I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40.

This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place.

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically.

👉 Hit subscribe and turn on the bell so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife—together.

If Not Now, When? Reclaiming Life, Healing Through Slow Travel with Becky Livingston

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 03:01:00 -0500

When life breaks you open, what do you do next?

In this emotional and empowering episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue sits down with author, adventurer, and travel coach Becky Livingston, who turned unimaginable grief into a 26-month global journey of healing and rediscovery.

After the loss of her 23-year-old daughter, Becky honored her daughter’s final wish to keep traveling the world—carrying her ashes to nine countries and leaving a piece of her spirit in each place. That pilgrimage became the foundation of her award-winning memoir, The Suitcase and the Jar, and her life’s work: helping women rediscover themselves through slow, intentional travel.

✨ In this episode:

How travel became a tool for healing after loss
Why solo travel in midlife is the ultimate act of courage
How slowing down can help you reconnect with yourself
The secret to meaningful travel: start with why, not where
What it really means to live fully after heartbreak

Whether you’re navigating loss, longing for freedom, or just ready to step out of your comfort zone, this conversation is a soul-stirring reminder that it’s never too late to begin again.

🌍 Learn more at http://www.beckylivingston.com

📚 Read The Suitcase and the Jar: Travels with a Daughter’s Ashes - https://a.co/d/7q5iLbX

📱 Follow Becky on Socials
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beckylivingston23/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/vitaltraveljourneysforwomen

🌟 Special Offer (10% discount on a 1-hour consult) Journey Clarity Consult Link: https://buy.stripe.com/14k6qW4m13Zd7VCcMM Use Code: BADASS10

Chapters
[00:00:00] Opening: silence, loneliness and mourning
[00:01:03] Episode Presentation and Theme
[00:02:53] Welcome Becky to the show
[00:03:23] Loss of Rachel and the Book
[00:07:27] Diary and blog during the trip
[00:09:01] Photos and index cards as a guide
[00:10:12] How the Journey Unfolded
[00:12:59] India and the Taj Mahal
[00:14:17] Finding Hardness and Minimalism
[00:16:23] Grief: Silence and Solitude Needed
[00:19:00] India without calm; Tasmania arrives
[00:21:26] Slow Travel Philosophy
[00:23:28] Favorite stay: Tasmania
[00:26:10] Ad break: podcast miniseries
[00:27:43] Book to travel coaching
[00:31:33] How you work with women
[00:35:46] Solo vs. group and meet people
[00:39:23] Local guides and eating alone
[00:42:18] Social Conditioning and Perception
[00:43:19] Security and Hosting Choices
[00:46:09] Immersion vs. hotel; example Vietnam
[00:49:02] It's about them, not us
[00:51:36] Self-awareness and boxing analogy
[00:53:02] Slow Travel, Housesitting and Care
[00:56:10] Intention First: The "Why"
[00:57:24] Holiday Culture: USA vs Europe
[00:58:23] How to contact Becky
[00:59:54] Call to action and partial closure
[01:01:01] Rachel's final message
[01:02:18] Farewell to the episode

FOLLOW and CONNECT

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women

🔥 I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40. This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place.

Each week, you’ll get real talk, raw stories, and badass strategies to help you:

✨ Smash through self-doubt and limitations

✨ Reclaim your confidence and clarity

✨ Build resilience and embrace reinvention

✨ Create a midlife that feels authentic, aligned, and f*cking powerful

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically.

👉 Hit subscribe so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife—together.

Art, Fire & Flow: Alicia Tormey on Creativity, Resilience & the Myth of Balance

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 03:01:00 -0500

What if fire wasn’t destruction—but transformation?

In this gorgeous, soul-deep episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue reconnects with internationally acclaimed encaustic artist Alicia Tormey, whose latest solo show Pyrophytic explores the themes of rebirth, resilience, and creative regeneration through fire.

Alicia uses actual flame as a tool in her art, fusing wax and heat to create luminous botanical works inspired by nature’s ability to rise from ashes. But this conversation goes far beyond technique—it’s about what it means to stay curious, generous, and wildly creative through life’s hardest seasons.

🔥 In this episode:

The meaning behind Pyrophytic—and how wildfires mirror the human spirit
Why Alicia sees no separation between art, business, and life
The myth of balance—and what to aim for instead
How to sustain creativity without burning out
The mindset shift that changed everything: “I’m here for it.”

Alicia’s wisdom applies far beyond the studio—it’s about showing up for yourself, your purpose, and your own creative fire, no matter what stage of life you’re in.

🎨 Explore Alicia’s work at https://www.aliciatormey.com/
📍Visit her solo exhibition Pyrophytic at the Patricia Rovzar Gallery in Seattle https://rovzargallery.com/exhibitions/pyro/
📱Follow her on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/alicia.tormey

Chapters

[00:00:00] - Opening Mindset
[00:02:10] - Podcast Identity and Audience
[00:04:05] - Exhibition Logistics and Gratitude
[00:05:07] - Title: "Pyrophytic"
[00:07:29] - Pyrophytic Plants Mentioned on TV
[00:09:08] - Focus on Botanicals
[00:11:04] - Imagination and Pareidolia
[00:13:19] - Encaustic Technique: Hot-Cold Working
[00:15:57] - Art Practice as Business
[00:19:31] - Studio vs Administrative Pull
[00:20:40] - Myth of Balance Debunked
[00:22:28] - Mantra: "I’m Here for It"
[00:25:10] - Teaching and Retreats
[00:27:28] - Vulnerability in Creating
[00:28:28] - Community Feedback: Generosity
[00:32:21] - Peers Recognize Generosity
[00:32:46] - Two Artist Mindsets
[00:34:29] - Choosing Generosity and Flow
[00:37:15] - Advice for Beginners
[00:39:01] - Cycles of Development
[00:41:17] - Narrow Focus and Depth
[00:42:28] - Knowing When a Piece Is Done
[00:45:54] - Gallery and Website Details
[00:46:45] - Thanks for Packing Assistance
[00:47:24] - Final Encouragement and Outro

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥

I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40.

This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place.

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically.

👉 Hit subscribe and turn on the bell so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife—together.

Why Every Realtor and Entrepreneur Needs a Podcast in 2025 and Beyond

Tue, 28 Oct 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Hey Badass listeners, This is a special episode! I'm giving you a little sample of a new limited series podcast that I just launched called: "Podcasting for Real Estate Pros". This limited series includes 21 short, punchy episodes that walk you through how to successfully start your own podcast. Although I initially designed the podcast for real estate professionals, anyone can benefit from these insightful lessons!

🎧Please enjoy the first episode, and I hope you'll binge the rest.
🔗https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/podcasting-for-real-estate-pros/id1843467070

Welcome to the no-BS guide to podcasting for real estate pros. This episode sets the stage for the whole series — showing you how to stop hiding behind boring “look at me” marketing and start building trust, authority, and a brand that actually sticks. Think of this series like a mini-course, only way more fun (and actually useful).

✨ Takeaways:

* - Why podcasting beats every tired marketing tactic you’ve been told to use.
* - How to treat this podcast like your step-by-step playbook.
* - Why grabbing the free workbook will make your life 10x easier.

📌 Call to Action: Hey, future podcaster, quick heads-up—this series comes with a free workbook to make your life way easier. Don’t just listen; actually do the work. Grab your free copy today—click the link below.

Download your workbook today!
https://podcastingforrealestatepros.com/podcasting-for-real-estate-pros-companion-workbook/

Perimenopause Unpacked: Root Causes, Hormone Myths & Why You’re Not Crazy

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 03:01:00 -0400

If you’ve ever been told “it’s just menopause” — this one’s for you.

In this eye-opening episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue sits down with Dyna Vink, an Integrative Health Practitioner and founder of Holistic Nutrition Lifestyle, to talk about what’s really going on with women’s bodies during perimenopause and menopause.

From brain fog and fatigue to sleep issues, anxiety, gut imbalances, and hormone chaos — Dyna breaks down why women are often dismissed by traditional medicine and how functional medicine testing can uncover the root cause of what’s keeping you stuck.

💥 In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why your doctor might not actually understand menopause (and it’s not your fault)
What functional medicine testing reveals that standard bloodwork doesn’t
The link between liver health, gut balance, and hormone regulation
The shocking truth about cortisol, sleep, and stress in midlife
Why detoxing is the first step to reclaiming your energy and sanity

If you’ve ever thought, “I feel like I’m losing my mind,” this conversation will remind you that you’re not crazy — you’re just complex. And there are real, science-based ways to get your balance, energy, and confidence back.

Connect with Dyna

Website: https://holisticnutritionlifestyle.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dyna.vink/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PerimenopauseRelief

Discovery call: https://offers.holisticnutritionlifestyle.com/discoverycall

[00:00:00] - Introduction
[00:03:04] - Guest welcome
[00:08:53] - Gaps in conventional care and testing
[00:14:30] - Parasites and lab methods
[00:18:33] - Symptom spectrum and daily impact
[00:21:06] - Training and blended modalities
[00:23:34] - Systematic approach: detox first
[00:29:32] - Mid-episode promo
[00:31:06] - Finding help and working with Dina
[00:36:19] - Beyond perimenopause: ongoing issues
[00:38:36] - HRT: benefits and limitations
[00:41:29] - Empowerment and next steps

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥

I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40.

This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place.

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically.

👉 Hit subscribe and turn on the bell so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife—together.

The Body Knows: Reclaiming Confidence, Connection & Leadership Through Embodiment with Jen Aks

Tue, 14 Oct 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Your body is wiser than your mind—it’s just been waiting for you to listen.

In this episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue sits down with TEDx speaker, author, and embodiment coach Jen Aks, creator of The Power of Gesture® practice and author of Your Body is Speaking.

A former professional dancer turned educator and leadership coach, Jen’s work helps women reconnect with their body’s intelligence—the part of us that knows before our brain catches up. Together, Sue and Jen explore the dance between body and mind, how movement becomes medicine, and why embodied leadership is the secret to confidence, connection, and clarity in every area of life.

🩰 In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why body set is the missing piece of mindset work
How to access your innate wisdom through movement and gesture
What your hands can teach you about your emotions
How to transform self-doubt into empowerment through embodiment
Why true leadership starts in your nervous system, not your résumé

This is your invitation to stop thinking your way through midlife—and start feeling your way forward.

Connect with Jen:

Free Gifts: The Power of Gesture®, my signature bodyset practice https://bonus.jenaks.com/into-to-the-power-video-page

Complimentary Live Gesture Workshop - Every Tuesday at 11:00EST - https://book.jenaks.com/free-live-gesture-workshop-page

🔗 Website: https://jenaks.com/

🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jennferaks

🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jen_aks

[00:00:00] - Host introduction
[00:03:09] - Body intelligence overview
[00:05:51] - Horses, embodiment, awareness
[00:08:08] - Dance background and school struggles
[00:14:08] - Host school story and shame
[00:16:35] - Redefining intelligence and worthiness
[00:21:43] - Introducing the Power of Gesture
[00:27:02] - Emotions as parts (Inside Out)
[00:28:48] - Accessibility and gesture patterns
[00:34:43] - Pandemic isolation and contact
[00:36:29] - Current program delivery
[00:38:40] - Embodied leadership in practice
[00:45:31] - Book: Your Body Is Speaking
[00:48:34] - How to connect and free offerings
[00:49:44] - Closing and call to action

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥

I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40.

This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place.

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically.

👉 Hit subscribe and turn on the bell so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife—together.

Death Isn’t a Dirty Word: What Every Midlife Caregiver Needs to Know

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Let’s talk about death—and how to do it better.

In this bold and beautifully honest episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue Willoughby is joined by hospice nurse and bestselling author Abigail D’Agostino, who’s on a mission to help caregivers, patients, and families face the end of life with clarity, dignity, and even a little humor.

With over two decades in critical care and hospice, Abigail brings refreshing candor to a taboo topic—offering practical wisdom, heart-centered guidance, and a reminder that we have more agency than we think when it comes to the final chapter.

Whether you're caring for aging parents, navigating grief, or simply wondering what it means to prepare well for your own transition, this conversation will leave you feeling informed, empowered, and oddly…lighter.

🎧 In this episode:

Why “hospice” doesn’t mean giving up—it means redirecting care
The real difference between hospice and palliative care (espresso vs. coffee!)
How to avoid unnecessary suffering through preparation and honest convos
What to do before the yogurt hits the spinning fan
Why humor is a healing tool, even in our darkest hours

🛑 It’s time we stopped whispering about death—and started getting clear about how to live (and love) through it.

Connect with Abigail! 🖤 Grab Abigail’s book Everybody’s Doing It, So Let’s Die Better at https://DieBetterBook.com

🔗 Website: https://www.nurseabigaild.com/

🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100080517497989

🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nurseabigaild/

Chapters

[00:00:00] - Introduction
[00:01:27] - Podcast branding & host
[00:02:12] - Guest overview
[00:03:36] - Career path to hospice
[00:11:04] - Book as practical guide
[00:12:16] - Hospice vs. palliative care
[00:17:06] - Clarifying hospice goals
[00:19:37] - Pet example & quality-of-life
[00:24:39] - ICU CPR story & DNR
[00:29:17] - Dementia & ER pitfalls
[00:30:59] - Purpose and structure of the book
[00:32:09] - When to read & prepare
[00:35:16] - Agency and death taboo
[00:38:09] - Case: “Laney” and preparation
[00:44:05] - Humor in hard conversations
[00:48:23] - Closing and takeaways

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥

I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40.

This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place.

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically.

👉 Hit subscribe and turn on the bell so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife—together.

Wag Yourself Happy: Resilience, Vision, and Rising From the Ashes with Steve Gamlin

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Midlife isn’t just for women—it’s for anyone who’s ever fallen apart and dared to rebuild.

In this episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, we’re flipping the script with guest Steve Gamlin—speaker, author, former radio DJ, stand-up comic, and self-proclaimed "blue-collar woo" guy.

Steve brings raw honesty and humor to a deeply personal conversation about grief, resilience, and how we pick ourselves back up—tail feathers singed and all. From vision boards that actually work, to surviving loss, rebuilding self-worth, and learning to “wag yourself happy,” this is a midlife masterclass in heart-centered reinvention.

🎧 Inside this episode:

The “pogo stick” version of resilience (and why it’s okay to bounce)
Grief, gratitude, and the power of paying attention to signs
Why most vision boards don’t work—and what to do instead
How Steve’s near-death golf ball moment changed his whole life
The 8 life areas that really matter when you want to feel whole

Whether you're rebuilding after loss, ready to reinvent, or just need a reminder that you’re not doing midlife wrong—you’ll love this powerful, soulful conversation with a man who’s walked through the fire (sometimes barefoot under power lines), and came out ready to help others rise.

💻 Learn more about Steve and his speaking/coaching work:
🔗 http://SteveGamlinSpeaker.com

🔗 https://www.facebook.com/SteveGamlin

🔗 https://www.instagram.com/stevegamlin/

Chapters

[00:00:00] - Welcome & Guest Intro
[00:02:00] - Steve’s Journey Overview
[00:06:52] - Host Shares Recent Pet Loss
[00:08:14] - Intention to Serve Grief Spaces
[00:09:00] - Lightness & Tina Anecdotes
[00:09:32] - Near-Death Golf Balls Story
[00:14:06] - From Stage Fears to Starting Messy
[00:16:12] - Vision Boards & the Nervous System
[00:18:23] - Eight-Areas Life Wheel Explained
[00:21:26] - Autumn Renewal Retreat (Sponsor)
[00:22:47] - Where to Start With Change
[00:26:38] - Momentum From Small Positive Choices
[00:28:33] - Daily "Good Stuff" Journaling
[00:31:09] - Five-Minute Journal Practice
[00:32:52] - Goals Through Sensory Detail
[00:34:07] - Full-Senses Living With Horses
[00:35:43] - Waffles With Tina & Sensory Memory
[00:37:25] - Be Present, Not on the Phone
[00:38:45] - Law of Attraction: Practical View
[00:41:18] - Staying Open in Grief
[00:45:22] - Current Work & Bookings
[00:48:05] - Missing Stages & Impact Goals
[00:48:57] - Impact Story in Cereal Aisle
[00:50:38] - Captain Crunch Nostalgia Banter
[00:51:18] - Closing Advice & Resources

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥

I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40.

This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place.

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically.

👉 Hit subscribe and turn on the bell so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife—together.

Rewire Your Nervous System: How Intuition, Energy & Healing Really Work

Tue, 23 Sep 2025 03:01:00 -0400

You can’t vision board your way out of burnout.
If your nervous system isn’t on board, nothing sticks—not the affirmations, not the manifesting, not even the journaling.

In this powerful episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue Willoughby sits down with Liz Potter, intuitive healer, medical medium, and nervous system specialist, to explore the deep connection between our body’s regulation and our ability to live fully aligned, expansive lives.

From psychic awakenings to spirit communication, from chronic illness to personal reinvention, Liz shares her fascinating journey and how she now helps women heal emotionally and physically by working with their nervous system—not against it.

🔮 Inside this episode:

Why your nervous system is the real gatekeeper of manifestation
The truth about affirmations, imposter syndrome & fear blocks
How your body stores past trauma—and how to feel your way through it
What happens when we override our higher self (and how to reconnect)
A powerful 3-phase process to rewire your nervous system and reclaim your power

✨ Bonus: Learn how Liz uses intuitive frequency reading to detect imbalances in the body—and why the “woo” and the science aren’t as far apart as you think.

🎧 If you’re a woman over 40 who feels stuck, scattered, or soul-tired… This episode is your wake-up call to regulate, reclaim, and rise.

📲 Work with Liz or learn more at https://lizpotterspiritmedium.com/

[00:00:00] - Host intro and guest welcome
[00:02:47] - Introducing Liz’s work focus
[00:04:01] - Path to psychic work and Reiki
[00:08:04] - Personalized nervous system programs
[00:09:30] - How intuition shows up in sessions
[00:13:53] - Protecting her own energy
[00:15:55] - Early signs and family lineage
[00:18:22] - The Elkington/Casey activation story
[00:20:48] - Full-body activation experience
[00:22:04] - Reiki sessions and spirit visits
[00:26:48] - Autumn Renewal retreat announcement
[00:28:17] - Client example: weight loss pathway
[00:33:45] - Somatics with horses and awareness
[00:37:58] - Applying process to money and business
[00:39:01] - Imposter syndrome as a safety issue
[00:41:55] - New safety attracts change
[00:44:55] - First steps: notice dysregulation
[00:48:00] - Gentle self-talk and recommended reading
[00:49:40] - Your nervous system mirrors life
[00:52:22] - Wrap-up and personal reflections
[00:53:15] - How to work with Liz
[00:53:27] - Closing remarks and call to share

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥

I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40.

This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place.

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically.

👉 Hit subscribe and turn on the bell so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife—together.

Another Step Up the Mountain: Adventure, Loss & Living Fully at Any Age

Tue, 16 Sep 2025 03:01:00 -0400

What if midlife wasn’t your slowing down season—but your permission slip to say YES, again and again?
In this episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue Willoughby sits down with extreme athlete, dragon boater, and Everest climber Dianette Wells—a woman who has turned challenge into momentum, grief into purpose, and joy into a daily practice.
From racing ultra-marathons and summiting 7 peaks (yes, including Everest—twice!) to navigating heartbreak, divorce, and the unimaginable loss of her son, Dianette shares how she’s learned to keep moving forward, one literal and metaphorical step at a time.
🎒 In this deeply honest, empowering episode, you’ll hear:
- Why you’re never too old to try something new (even if you suck at it)

- The surprising mindset that keeps Dianette going through brutal climbs and brutal life events

- How joy, curiosity, and community are her secret weapons

- Why your “mountain persona” can help you tackle everyday life

- What it means to reclaim your spark—without apology or perfection

Whether you’re feeling stuck, grieving, or just wondering “what’s next?”—this episode will remind you that every step counts, and you are capable of more than you think.
Connect with Dianette Wells:
🔗 Website: https://dianettewells.com/
🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DianetteWellsEnduranceAthlete
🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dianettewells/
📖Get her Book: Another Step Up the Mountain - https://a.co/d/cK9Ovl6

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥

I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40.

This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place.

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically.

👉 Hit follow so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife—together.

Use Your Voice: How to Speak Up, Stand Out, and Be in Demand

Tue, 09 Sep 2025 03:01:00 -0400

What if the only thing standing between you and next-level confidence… was your voice?

In this episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue Willoughby sits down with powerhouse speaker and coach Laurie-Ann Murabito—a once painfully shy woman who’s now a sought-after speaker, coach, and host of the Be in Demand podcast. Her message? Finding your voice isn’t just about public speaking—it’s about reclaiming your presence.

Whether you’re terrified of speaking up in meetings, dreaming of hitting the stage, or just tired of feeling invisible, this conversation will light a fire under your mic.

🎤 In this episode:

Why public speaking isn’t just for “outgoing” women
How being tall, shy, and invisible sparked Laurie-Ann’s transformation
The role of voice tone, range, and pacing in owning your power
How to get speaking gigs—even if you’ve never been paid before
Real transformations from clients who were scared sh*tless to speak… until they weren’t

✨ Plus:

Get Laurie-Ann’s free Directory of Places to Speak at https://SpeakAndStandOut.com/gift

Learn about her live "Get Booked to Speak" training and her upcoming 8-week "In-Demand Signature Speech" program. https://SpeakAndStandOut.com

Follow Laurie-Ann on IG: https://www.instagram.com/laurieann.murabito

Chapters

[00:00:00] - Powerful intro and guest bio
[00:02:05] - Host welcome and setup
[00:03:11] - Laurianne’s origin story
[00:09:12] - Early challenges of saying yes
[00:16:04] - Brands and finding your voice
[00:22:29] - Voice craft and performance
[00:26:38] - Sponsor: Autumn Renewal retreat
[00:28:06] - Techniques: pausing, pacing, physiology
[00:38:04] - Don’t hate your voice—reframe it
[00:42:47] - Client transformations and impact
[00:48:24] - How to connect and closing

FOLLOW and CONNECT

https://www.ginaecon.com/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

🔥 Welcome to Midlife Strategies for Badass Women 🔥

I’m Sue Willoughby—Badass Midlife Strategist, life coach, and your partner in breaking rules, rewriting the script, and thriving unapologetically after 40.

This channel is for women who are DONE playing small. If you’re ready to ditch the “shoulds,” reclaim your power, and live a bold, joyful, purpose-driven life—you’re in the right place.

This isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement. A community of women who are tired of waiting and ready to step into their next-level life, unapologetically.

👉Follow so you never miss an episode. Let’s rise, rebel, and reinvent midlife—together.

Why Fun Isn’t Frivolous: Reclaiming Play, Pleasure & Purpose in Midlife

Tue, 02 Sep 2025 03:01:00 -0400

What if fun wasn’t just “extra”—but essential to your health, happiness, and midlife reinvention?
In this laughter-filled episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, host Sue Willoughby sits down with Treena Innes, global gallivanter, author, and life fun expert, to challenge the myth that adulthood means the end of play.
Treena shares her inspiring story of how writing a book at 50 led to a movement to teach women how to live more vibrantly through fun, laughter, and joy—on their own damn terms.
🎉 In this high-energy convo, we cover:
Why most women lose their sense of fun around age 30—and how to get it back

The difference between a fun list and a bucket list (and why both matter)

How to build a micro-dose fun habit that actually sticks

The science-backed benefits of play (spoiler: it’s better than Botox)

How to ditch the guilt and reclaim your fun personality—at any age

This episode is your permission slip to stop being the martyr, drop the “good girl” mask, and rediscover what actually lights you up. (Bonus: laughing burns calories. You’re welcome.)

🎧 Tune in. Laugh loud. And start building your badass fun habit today.

🔗 Connect with Treena at https://www.minddoodles.ca

🎙️Podcast: Finding Fun Experiments https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/finding-fun-experiment-cracking-the-code-to-health/id1813646794

📖Book Giveaway: https://minddoodles.ca/meet-mind-doodle-the-book/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/treena.innes/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/treena_minddoodles/

Chapters

[00:00:00] - Laughter as a natural pain reliever
[00:00:31] - Podcast intro and mission
[00:01:15] - Setting the tone: humor saves
[00:02:01] - Guest welcome: Trina Inis
[00:02:55] - Why laughter is Trina’s focus
[00:05:52] - Why adults stop prioritizing fun
[00:10:09] - Embracing spontaneity vs planning
[00:10:55] - Bucket list basics and benefits
[00:12:14] - Fun list vs bucket list
[00:13:41] - Getting people to use the list
[00:16:53] - Building fun habits daily
[00:20:27] - Social media facades and authenticity
[00:23:29] - End-of-day “fire in the belly” check
[00:24:30] - Energy drains: doomscrolling and news
[00:26:02] - Fun builds resilience through grief
[00:27:57] - Finding one funny thing daily
[00:29:12] - Not-so-fun midlife stats (women)
[00:31:12] - Peak stress 35–55: 74% of women
[00:31:31] - Adults drop play in their 30s
[00:32:00] - Good news: rebuild fun with habits
[00:32:28] - What about men? Guilt and openness
[00:34:05] - Women’s seriousness and self-forgetting
[00:36:09] - Play personalities and lifelong play
[00:37:34] - Retest: play evolves over time
[00:38:24] - What fun does to your body
[00:41:04] - We talk about health about 10 times a day
[00:43:13] - How to connect with Trina
[00:45:23] - Spreading the fun ripple effect
[00:45:53] - Closing thanks and final message
FOLLOW and CONNECT

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

Thank you for watching! If you're seeking more insights on living a truly meaningful and fulfilling life, be sure to subscribe to my channel. And don’t forget to hit the bell icon so you never miss an update!An extraordinary life starts within. Discover your inner strength and awaken a life worth being through experiential, equine-assisted life coaching. Welcome to My Universe! I am Sue Willoughby, Badass Midlife Strategist & host of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women—a podcast that dives deep to help you uncover the true meaning of a fulfilling life. This channel is here to inspire and empower women over 40 to step into their fullest potential, break through limitations, and truly thrive. Each week, we bring you powerful video podcasts filled with real-life stories of transformation, resilience, and courage. Expect raw, heart-centered conversations and life-changing insights designed to help you break boundaries and start crafting a life brimming with purpose, joy, and passion. This is more than just a channel; it’s a community. Join me to explore, grow, & connect with like-minded women on the journey to creating a life worth being. Subscribe now and let’s awaken your limitless potential together!

The Midlife Edit: Ditch the Back Burner and Reclaim Your Damn Life

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Still waiting for “someday”? Spoiler: it’s not coming. But you still can.
In the final episode of the Midlife Reclamation: Summer Reset Series on Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, host Sue Willoughby brings the 🔥 as she guides you through the most important midlife skill of all: editing your life.
This episode is your invitation to stop hauling around the emotional, physical, and energetic clutter you’ve been tolerating for years—and finally create space for what actually lights you up.
🧹 In this episode, you’ll learn:
Why “someday” is a soul-sucking myth that keeps you stuck

How to identify and release the habits, relationships, and crap weighing you down

Why clarity and courage—not more hustle—are your midlife superpowers

The 4-part audit to help you clean up your calendar, mind, space, and relationships

A badass back burner challenge (and one thing to burn this week—literally)

It’s time to edit your life like your future depends on it—because it does.
📓 Grab your journal.
🔥 Light the match.
🎧 And let’s reclaim midlife, one release at a time.

[00:00:00] - Less hustle, more clarity
[00:01:14] - Series finale: the midlife edit
[00:03:45] - The back-burner problem
[00:09:03] - Invitation: newsletter and call
[00:10:07] - Start small, by area
[00:13:06] - Examples and release ritual
[00:16:42] - Audit, habit, and wrap-up

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

Thank you for watching! If you're seeking more insights on living a truly meaningful and fulfilling life, be sure to subscribe to my channel. And don’t forget to hit the bell icon so you never miss an update! An extraordinary life starts within. Discover your inner strength and awaken a life worth being through experiential, equine-assisted life coaching. Welcome to My Universe! I am Sue Willoughby, Badass Midlife Strategist & host of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women—a podcast that dives deep to help you uncover the true meaning of a fulfilling life. This channel is here to inspire and empower women over 40 to step into their fullest potential, break through limitations, and truly thrive. Each week, we bring you powerful video podcasts filled with real-life stories of transformation, resilience, and courage. Expect raw, heart-centered conversations and life-changing insights designed to help you break boundaries and start crafting a life brimming with purpose, joy, and passion. This is more than just a channel; it’s a community. Join me to explore, grow, & connect with like-minded women on the journey to creating a life worth being. Subscribe now and let’s awaken your limitless potential together!

Reclaiming Desire: Why You’re Not Too Old, Too Late, or Too Much

Tue, 19 Aug 2025 03:01:00 -0400

What if your midlife desire wasn’t a problem to fix—but a compass pointing you home to yourself?

In Episode 4 of the Midlife Reclamation: Summer Reset Series on Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, host Sue Willoughby unpacks one of the most loaded and misunderstood words for women over 40: desire.

From cultural shame and gender roles to people-pleasing and self-abandonment, this episode explores why so many women disconnect from what they want—and how to start reclaiming your desires without apology.

✨ In this episode, you’ll discover:

Why desire isn’t just about sex—it’s about aliveness
The real reason we fear being "too much" or "selfish"
How midlife invites us to burn the good girl rulebook and reclaim our voice
A mini challenge to reconnect with your desire in a way that feels playful, safe, and true

This is about more than feeling turned on—it’s about turning yourself back on.

🎧 Press play if you’ve ever wondered:
“Is this it?”
Spoiler alert: It’s not. You’re just getting started.

[00:00:00] - Cold Open: Naming Desire
[00:03:13] - Desire as Sacred Intel
[00:05:07] - Reconnecting with Dormant Desire
[00:11:23] - Let Yourself Want Without Action
[00:16:58] - Weekly Micro-Challenge: Desire List
[00:21:59] - Desire Is Wisdom, Not Wrong

FOLLOW and CONNECT with SUE
Website - https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

Living Boldly in the Gray Areas: A Conversation with Ingrid Hu Dahl

Tue, 12 Aug 2025 03:01:00 -0400

In this soul-stirring episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue Willoughby sits down with author, musician, and feminist leader Ingrid Hu Dahl to unpack the radical power of identity, reinvention, and emotional healing. From navigating a queer, biracial identity in suburban America to finding clarity through horses, punk rock, and feminism, Ingrid shares stories from her memoir Sun Shining on Morning Snow that will have you nodding, laughing, and probably crying too.

This episode is a masterclass in letting go of the old scripts—performance, people-pleasing, perfectionism—and writing your own damn story, one bold, honest moment at a time.

If you're standing at the edge of reinvention, wondering how to live more fully and fiercely, this conversation is your sign. Tune in and take what you need.

Connect with Ingrid: https://www.ingridhudahl.com/
Buy Her Book: Sun Shining on Morning Snow https://www.sunshiningonmorningsnow.com/
Upcoming Events: https://www.sunshiningonmorningsnow.com/events

[00:01:30] - Podcast Welcome and Episode Setup
[00:04:48] - Early Midlife Crisis in Big Tech
[00:07:00] - Identity, Coming Out, Grief, Belonging
[00:14:22] - Queer Awakenings and Representation
[00:24:00] - Mid-Show Break: Newsletter and Event
[00:25:49] - Letting Go: Superiority to Curiosity
[00:36:03] - Horses, Healing, Advice, and Wrap-Up

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

Thank you for Listening! If you're seeking more insights on living a truly meaningful and fulfilling life, be sure to subscribe to my channel. And don’t forget to hit the bell icon so you never miss an update!An extraordinary life starts within. Discover your inner strength and awaken a life worth being through experiential, equine-assisted life coaching. Welcome to My Universe! I am Sue Willoughby, Badass Midlife Strategist & host of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women—a podcast that dives deep to help you uncover the true meaning of a fulfilling life. This channel is here to inspire and empower women over 40 to step into their fullest potential, break through limitations, and truly thrive. Each week, we bring you powerful video podcasts filled with real-life stories of transformation, resilience, and courage. Expect raw, heart-centered conversations and life-changing insights designed to help you break boundaries and start crafting a life brimming with purpose, joy, and passion. This is more than just a channel; it’s a community. Join me to explore, grow, & connect with like-minded women on the journey to creating a life worth being. Subscribe now and let’s awaken your limitless potential together!
Ingrid Hu Dahl Event
https://charliesqueerbooks.com/events/2922920250815

Song: Embrace
Composer: Sappheiros
Website: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5ZVHXQZAIn9WJXvy6qn9K0
License: Creative Commons (BY 3.0) https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/
Music powered by BreakingCopyright: https://breakingcopyright.com

Burn the Rulebook: Dismantling the Good Girl Lies That Keep You Small

Tue, 05 Aug 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Still saying yes when you mean hell no? Apologizing for just existing? You’re not alone—and it’s time to flip the script.
In Episode 3 of the Midlife Reclamation: Summer Reset Series on Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, host and chief badass strategist Sue Willoughby takes a torch to the “good girl” programming so many women are still unconsciously following.
From people-pleasing to over-apologizing to tying your worth to perfection, this episode explores how the rules that were designed to keep you “safe” are actually keeping you stuck. And more importantly—how to start breaking them with intention, grace, and zero guilt.

🐴 With a little help from horse wisdom, Sue offers:

- A breakdown of common “good girl” behaviors keeping women exhausted and resentful

- Real talk on the myth of being “nice” and the power of being clear

- The link between your body’s signals and your boundaries

- A weekly challenge to flip one rule and reclaim your energy

- You didn’t come this far to stay small. Let’s set some things on fire (metaphorically) and reclaim your space, your voice, and your damn peace.

[00:00:00] - Special Movie Screening Announcement
[00:01:33] - Podcast Introduction and Summer Series Overview
[00:02:35] - Episode Theme Introduction
[00:05:08] - How Good Girl Rules Show Up
[00:09:31] - Flipping the Script on Rules
[00:17:48] - Horse Wisdom on Self-Care
[00:20:09] - Weekly Micro Challenge
[00:22:35] - Next Episode Preview: Desire
[00:22:56] - Special Guest Announcement
[00:24:08] - Newsletter Signup Reminder

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

Ingrid Hu Dahl Event
https://charliesqueerbooks.com/events/2922920250815

Equus Coaching Event and Rescued Hearts Screening
https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/events

Balance Is Bullsh*t: Why Alignment (Not Hustle) Is Your Midlife Superpower

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 04:22:16 -0400

Still chasing “balance” like it’s some magical finish line? What if balance is the thing burning you out?

In Episode 2 of the Midlife Reclamation: Summer Reset Series on Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, host and chief badass midlife strategist Sue Willoughby calls BS on the cultural myth of balance—and shares what you actually need instead: alignment.

From learning to honor your energy to embracing your true values (not just obligations), Sue gives it to you straight—with humor, horse wisdom, and a clear challenge to check your own calendar.

🔥 In this episode:

Why “balance” is a myth that’s keeping badass women stuck and exhausted
The difference between people-pleasing and aligned living
How to do a midlife Alignment Audit to get clear on what’s draining you
What horses can teach us about boundaries, energy, and self-trust
Why saying “no” without guilt is one of your greatest midlife powers

This one is your permission slip to stop spinning plates, reclaim your energy, and show up on your terms. You’re not here to perform—you’re here to live fully.

🎧 Tune in now and tag your homework with #MidlifeReclaimed

📱 Follow Sue on Instagram: @sue_willoughby

[00:00:00] - Opening: What is balance?

[00:01:31] - balance vs. alignment

[00:04:14] - Expectativas externas y fracaso

[00:06:53] - External expectations and failure

[00:11:49] - Analogies for self-care

[00:14:03] - Alignment Audit

[00:18:29] - Closing and preview of episode 3

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

Midlife Isn’t a Crisis—It’s a Calling: Reclaiming Joy, Truth & the Summer You Deserve

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 03:00:00 -0400

What if midlife wasn’t something to survive—but the perfect time to reset, reclaim, and remember who the hell you are?

Welcome to Episode 1 of the Midlife Reclamation: Summer Reset Series on Midlife Strategies for Badass Women! In this solo kickoff, head badass midlife strategist Sue Willoughby invites you to shake off the “shoulds,” bust a few myths, and start reconnecting with what actually lights you up.

Through childhood stories, horse wisdom, and a little tough love, Sue challenges you to stop waiting for someday and take one small, joy-filled step toward reclaiming your midlife—starting this week.

🔥 In this episode:

Why midlife is not a crisis—it’s a calling
Three myths that are holding you back from feeling fulfilled
Why reinvention is not selfish—it’s sacred
How to reconnect with your inner badass through micro-actions
A weekly challenge to reclaim what you’ve put on the back burner

Whether you’ve been feeling stuck, soul-tired, or just in need of a good summer reset, this episode is your permission slip to get messy, get real, and get back on the damn water skis.

🔗 Tag your micro-action this week using #MidlifeReclaimed and follow Sue on Instagram: @sue_willoughby

[00:00:00] - Opening Thoughts
[00:00:24] - Show Introduction
[00:01:13] - Announcing Summer Miniseries
[00:01:31] - Summer Memories
[00:04:02] - Puppy Otis Joins the Family
[00:05:16] - Launching "Reclaim Your Midlife" Series
[00:06:54] - Busting Midlife Myths
[00:08:34] - Starting a Midlife Shift
[00:10:06] - Quiet Reflection Exercise
[00:11:54] - Rediscovering Playfulness
[00:14:53] - Weekly Challenge
[00:17:23] - Episode Wrap-Up and Motivation
[00:18:08] - Midlife as a Breakthrough Message

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

Turning Burnout & Illness into Radical Self-Trust: UnshakableMe with Heidi Blackie

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 03:01:00 -0400

What happens when life forces you to stop—and finally listen to what your body’s been trying to tell you all along?

In this powerful episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, host Sue Willoughby welcomes speaker, consultant, and founder of UnshakableMe, Heidi Blackie. After a lifetime of pushing through pain, burnout, and chronic illness, Heidi made a radical decision: to trust herself—and her body’s ability to heal.

What followed was a complete shift from survival mode to a soul-led life rooted in resilience, joy, and self-trust.

🌿 In this episode, we explore:

The high cost of hustle culture—and how to break free from it
How chronic illness became Heidi’s greatest teacher
Why women hit midlife burnout (and how to recover)
The daily practices that build unshakeable self-trust
How to rewrite your story and reclaim your power—at any age

If you’ve ever felt stuck in survival mode, doubted your worth, or wondered “Is this all there is?”, this conversation is your reminder that the answers aren’t out there—they’re already within you.

🔗 Explore Heidi’s work at unshakableme.com

[00:00:00] - Intro
[00:01:24] - Guest Introduction
[00:02:32] - Athletic Life Background
[00:05:15] - 2016 Losses and Stressors
[00:07:46] - Turning Inward to Heal
[00:12:26] - Self-Healing Conversation
[00:14:16] - Velodrome Cycling Explained
[00:17:38] - Breakthrough via Daily Ritual
[00:23:35] - Living Present Like Animals
[00:24:56] - Joy Examples with Dogs
[00:26:01] - Creating “UnshakableMe” Program
[00:30:02] - Relationship with Self & Community
[00:34:32] - Acceptance Without Labels
[00:40:12] - Client Case on Boundaries
[00:42:42] - Women, People-Pleasing & Guilt
[00:45:53] - Horse Coaching Reveals Patterns
[00:47:19] - Future Program Plans & Grants
[00:48:08] - Gratitude for Ongoing Challenges
[00:49:02] - Midlife Strategies & Tips
[00:54:26] - Seed of Self-Belief; Closing Remarks
[00:55:26] - Episode Ends

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

Midlife Reset: Reclaim Your Energy, Balance, and Joy with Kim Rogne

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 03:01:00 -0400

What if slowing down was the key to your next level of success?

In this inspiring episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, host Sue Willoughby chats with high-energy keynote speaker, business coach, and bestselling author Kim Rogne about her bold decision to walk away from a 25-year real estate career and start over at midlife—this time on her terms.

After breaking her leg on a ski trip, Kim was forced to stop hustling long enough to hear the whispers of her heart. What followed was the launch of her company, For the Love of (FLOW), where she now helps high-achieving women and leadership teams thrive without burnout.

🎯 In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why midlife is the perfect time to pause, pivot, or go bigger
How burnout sneaks up on high performers—and how to reclaim your joy
The power of asking yourself: “What do I want now?”
Practical ways to balance your energy, your calendar, and your mindset
Why you don’t have to sacrifice success to feel fulfilled

If you’re ready to stop running on autopilot and start living (and leading) with purpose and joy, this episode is your roadmap.

🔗 Connect with Kim: kimrogne.com 🛠️ Download her free FlowSelf Journal: flowself.com 📱 Follow on IG: @kimrogne

[00:00:00] - Introduction and Breckenridge Story
[00:00:26] - Podcast Rebranding and Guest Introduction
[00:01:53] - Guest’s Professional Background and Achievements
[00:03:03] - Transition from Real Estate to Coaching
[00:09:00] - Slowing Down and Self-Discovery
[00:15:40] - Finding Joy, Fun, and Identity
[00:21:44] - Coaching Philosophy and Approach
[00:26:30] - Women in Leadership and Business Dynamics
[00:32:06] - Ideal Clients and Realities of Real Estate
[00:34:54] - Tools, Assessments, and Personal Growth
[00:51:14] - Resources and Conclusion

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

From Bartender to Nun to End-of-Life Doula: Gina Economopoulos on Healing, Faith, and Finding Her Purpose

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 03:01:00 -0400

In this powerful episode of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women, Sue Willoughby sits down with Gina Economopoulos—whose life journey is anything but ordinary. Born into a large Greek-Italian family, Gina has worn more hats than most people dare to dream: social worker, bartender, nun, caregiver, author, and now a certified end-of-life doula. Her story is one of deep faith, unshakable resilience, addiction recovery, and spiritual awakening.

You’ll hear about:

Surviving grief, trauma, and addiction
Life inside (and outside) a convent
Embracing sobriety after losing the love of her life
The sacred calling of being an end-of-life doula
How to find peace, purpose, and power in your own story—even after hitting rock bottom

If you’ve ever felt lost, broken, or unsure of what’s next, Gina’s journey will leave you inspired, grounded, and ready to reclaim your own midlife magic.

🕊️ Trigger warning: This episode contains honest conversation about grief, death, and addiction recovery.

Connect with Gina

Chapters:
[00:00:00] - Intro
[00:01:45] - Early Life and Family
[00:09:05] - Loss, Faith, and the Convent
[00:23:23] - Life After the Convent
[00:31:20] - Relationships, Addiction, and Loss
[00:39:07] - Recovery and Purpose
[00:43:11] - Becoming a Death Doula
[00:54:31] - Reflections and Closing

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions.
https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

An extraordinary life starts within. Discover your inner strength and awaken a life worth being through experiential, equine-assisted life coaching. Welcome to My Universe!

I am Sue Willoughby, BAdass Midlife Strategist & host of Midlife Strategies for Badass Women — a podcast that dives deep to help you uncover the true meaning of a fulfilling life. This channel is here to inspire and empower women over 40 to step into their fullest potential, break through limitations, and truly thrive.

Each week, we bring you powerful video podcasts filled with real-life stories of transformation, resilience, and courage. Expect raw, heart-centered conversations and life-changing insights designed to help you break boundaries and start crafting a life brimming with purpose, joy, and passion. This is more than just a channel; it’s a community.

Join me to explore, grow, & connect with like-minded women on the journey to creating a life worth being. Subscribe now and let’s awaken your limitless potential together!

Trailer: Midlife Strategies for Badass Women

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 16:51:28 -0400

🎙️Midlife Strategies for Badass Women is your no-BS guide to owning your next chapter—with real talk, raw stories, and practical strategies for women 40+ who are ready to stop playing small.

Hosted by life coach Sue Willoughby, this podcast delivers weekly inspiration, mindset shifts, and unapologetic motivation to help you reclaim your fire, rewrite your story, and reinvent midlife—on your own damn terms.

Subscribe now and start living bolder, louder, and more unapologetically than ever.

Rescued Hearts: How Horses, Healing & Love Changed Everything with Dana Croschere and Krisanna Sexton

Thu, 26 Jun 2025 03:01:00 -0400

What happens when you follow your heart—into the unknown, into the wild, and into the arms of healing?

In this powerful Pride Month finale of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby reunites with filmmaker couple Dana Croschere and Krisanna Sexton, co-creators of the groundbreaking documentary Rescued Hearts. What began as a story about horses and healing turned into a two-year spiritual pilgrimage, spanning 5 countries, 31 cities, and the deepest parts of their souls.

In this episode, Dana and Krisanna share:

How Rescued Hearts began, and the unexpected role South Africa played in its evolution
The transformational healing they both experienced with Candace Webster and her herd
The raw, real truth about creating—and living—a love that defies shame and conditioning
Their shared sobriety journey, and how clarity became a portal to purpose
Why they’re choosing to bring this film to communities, not corporations

If you've ever questioned your path, doubted your worth, or wondered what it really means to live—and love—authentically, this conversation will move you.

🎥 Learn more about the film and community screenings: https://www.rescuedheartsfilm.com

Chapters
[00:01:02] - Guest Introductions and Film Background
[00:04:14] - South Africa Trip and Its Significance
[00:08:14] - Impact of South Africa on the Filmmakers
[00:12:18] - Working with Horses and Healing
[00:15:13] - Vulnerability and Transformation
[00:18:32] - Navigating Creative and Personal Partnerships
[00:25:26] - Authenticity, Identity, and Overcoming Adversity
[00:31:07] - Fostering Acceptance and Representation
[00:34:00] - Podcast Milestone and Gratitude
[00:36:01] - Healing and Shared Experiences
[00:41:09] - Embracing Sobriety and Its Impact
[00:43:31] - Host's Personal Healing Journey
[00:46:12] - Inner Wisdom and Connection
[00:50:47] - Host’s Reflections and Connection with Her Horse
[00:53:31] - Reiki and Energy Sensations
[00:56:07] - Shared Practices and Energy Awareness
[00:56:25] - Wrapping Up: Film’s Future and Impact
[01:00:01] - Grassroots Impact and Long-Term Vision
[01:03:52] - Looking Ahead and Ongoing Mission
[01:07:28] - Legacy, Gratitude, and Closing Thoughts

FOLLOW and CONNECT
Website - https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions.
https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

An extraordinary life starts within. Discover your inner strength and awaken a life worth being through experiential, equine-assisted life coaching. Welcome to My Universe!

I am Sue Willoughby, transformational life coach & host of A Life Worth Being—a podcast that dives deep to help you uncover the true meaning of a fulfilling life. This channel is here to inspire and empower women over 40 to step into their fullest potential, break through limitations, and truly thrive.

Join me to explore, grow, & connect with like-minded women on the journey to creating a life worth being. Subscribe now and let’s awaken your limitless potential together!

She’s That Lesbian: Maggie Cassella on Comedy, Queer Legacy, and Laughing Through It All

Tue, 24 Jun 2025 03:01:00 -0400

What do you get when you mix an ex-lawyer, queer icon, stand-up comic, political satirist, and accidental contractor? You get Maggie Cassella.
In this unforgettable Pride Month episode of A Life Worth Being, Sue reconnects with her longtime friend Maggie Cassella—a powerhouse queer comedian, writer, producer, and self-described jill-of-all-trades. From bartending at one of Hartford’s first lesbian bars to launching North America's first queer comedy festival, Maggie’s done it all—and she has the stories to prove it.
✨ In this laugh-out-loud conversation, Maggie talks about:
Going from the courtroom to the comedy stage (thanks to a dare from Lea DeLaria)

Producing the first all-queer comedy fest We're Funny That Way

Lessons from decades of queer visibility and activism

The real deal on jealousy, legacy, and making space for the next generation

Her new work in film, TV writing, and the viral-ready jingle "She’s That Lesbian"

She also shares what it means to use humor as healing, and why kindness—more than fame—is the legacy that really matters.
📍 Maggie’s Website: https://maggiecassella.com/
🌈 Learn more at: https://werefunnythatway.com/
🎁 Support LGBTQ2S+ causes: https://rainbowcharitynetwork.org/

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions.
https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

[00:00:00] - Podcast Anniversary & Introduction
[00:01:02] - Early Memories and Friendship Stories
[00:08:07] - Maggie Casella’s Career Journey
[00:11:22] - Comedy, Identity, and Evolving as a Comic
[00:21:15] - Creative Projects and Current Work
[00:29:03] - Mentoring, Ego, and Supporting Other Comics
[00:45:07] - Kindness and Personal Legacy
[00:53:13] - Outro and Resources

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

An extraordinary life starts within. Discover your inner strength and awaken a life worth being through experiential, equine-assisted life coaching. Welcome to My Universe!

Join me to explore, grow, & connect with like-minded women on the journey to creating a life worth being. Subscribe now and let’s awaken your limitless potential together!

The New Masculine: Travis Stock on Vulnerability, Horses, and Healing Beyond Stereotypes

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 03:01:00 -0400

What does it really mean to be a man today—and what if the old rules never fit in the first place?
In this bold and heart-centered episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby is joined by coach, facilitator, and podcast host Travis Stock, whose work challenges outdated ideas of masculinity and invites people of all identities to live from wholeness.
A former social worker turned Equus coach, Travis shares how working with horses helped him break free from performance, perfectionism, and societal pressure. As the founder of The New Masculine podcast, he creates space for men, queer folks, and non-binary individuals to reimagine what leadership, connection, and emotional expression can look like.
💬 In this conversation, we explore:
How horses reveal what we’re really feeling—no hiding allowed

The trauma of masculine socialization and the cost of "being a man"

Why community and relational repair are essential to thriving

Using experiential coaching to unlock truth and transformation

The magic of Equus coaching (and a laugh-out-loud story about herding horses with a partner)

We also talk about our upcoming Equus Coaching Demo Day in August, and why now more than ever, it's time to reconnect to your body, your truth, and each other.

🔗 Connect with Travis at https://www.travisstock.com/
📱 Follow on IG: @travers03 - https://www.instagram.com/travers03/
🎙️ Listen to The New Masculine podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-new-masculine/id1485250159
🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@travisstock781

Chapters
[00:00:00] - Introduction & Podcast Anniversary
[00:00:44] - Setting the Stage: Wellness, Control, and the Queer Community
[00:02:45] - Host Introduction: Sue Willoughby
[00:03:13] - Special Pride Episode Introduction
[00:03:26] - Meet the Guest: Travis Stock
[00:05:07] - Sue’s Equus Coaching Journey and Travis’s Influence
[00:07:44] - First Equus Coaching Session: Learning and Growth
[00:08:47] - Celebrating Milestones: Anniversaries and Collaborations
[00:10:18] - Ongoing Projects: Men’s Work and Retreats
[00:11:40] - Barriers in Men Seeking Personal Development
[00:15:16] - Shifts in Gender Socialization and Current Trends
[00:16:26] - Addressing Pushback to Men’s Work and Podcasting
[00:18:19] - Importance of Diverse Relationships and Conversations
[00:19:35] - Integrating Horses in Men’s Work and Coaching
[00:21:51] - Explaining Equus Coaching for New Audiences
[00:22:47] - Travis’s Equus Coaching Origin Story & Lessons
[00:28:11] - Client Example: Couples and Obstacle Herding
[00:32:22] - The Experiential Nature of Equus Coaching
[00:34:41] - Horses as Teachers of Authenticity and Joy
[00:36:40] - Podcast Milestone Reminders and Gratitude
[00:37:29] - Managing Focus and Energy for Personal Wellness
[00:40:03] - Upcoming Events: Retreat and August Demo Day
[00:44:04] - Building Understanding and Humanity Through Shared Stories
[00:47:32] - Closing Remarks and Gratitude

Thanks to my amazing Producer and Editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions.
https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

An extraordinary life starts within. Discover your inner strength and awaken a life worth being through experiential, equine-assisted life coaching. Welcome to My Universe!

Join me to explore, grow, & connect with like-minded women on the journey to creating a life worth being. Subscribe now and let’s awaken your limitless potential together!

Choose Your Own Adventure: Kit Sargent on Queer Identity, Conscious Living & the Power of Astrology

Tue, 10 Jun 2025 03:01:00 -0400

What if living your truth meant blowing up everything you were taught—and finally building a life that actually fits?

In this inspiring and no-holds-barred episode of A Life Worth Being, Sue Willoughby sits down with Kit Sargent, astrologer, LGBTQIA+ mindset mentor, and host of the Queer Consciousness podcast. From being raised in a conservative evangelical household to coming out during the pandemic, Kit shares how they reclaimed their identity, unpacked decades of conditioning, and started helping others do the same.

✨ You’ll hear:

How silence led to self-discovery—and eventually, self-acceptance
The mental and emotional toll of suppressing identity for the sake of conformity
The role of astrology in creating a blueprint for healing and growth
Why community, storytelling, and curiosity are essential for collective liberation
How queerness teaches all of us to live from the inside out, not the outside in

Whether you’re queer, questioning, deconstructing religion, or just trying to live a little more consciously—this episode is full of real talk, deep truth, and a few hilarious side quests.

🎧 Tune in now and remember: life is a choose-your-own-adventure—and you already have the tools.

🔗 Follow Kit on Instagram & TikTok: @sargent.says
🎙️ Listen to their podcast: Queer Consciousness
📧 Connect via email: queerconsciousnesspod@gmail.com

Thanks to my amazing Producer and editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions.
https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you want to start your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

[00:00:00] - Introduction and Pride Month Celebration
[00:01:40] - Show Introduction and Host Welcome
[00:02:39] - Kit's Background and Purpose
[00:03:32] - Importance of Positivity and Community
[00:04:14] - Kit's Personal Journey and Coming Out
[00:09:33] - Linking Arms: Strength in Authenticity
[00:10:17] - Podcast Origins and Building Connections
[00:14:24] - The Flow of Energy and Resonance
[00:18:27] - The Process and Challenge of Coming Out
[00:21:39] - Different Upbringings: Shared Challenges
[00:29:09] - Embracing Queerness and Self-Acceptance
[00:31:03] - Coaching and Mentorship for Self-Discovery
[00:32:42] - Podcast Anniversary and Community Encouragement
[00:33:34] - Midlife Identity and Starting Anew
[00:36:24] - Elements of Astrology: Sun, Moon, Rising
[00:39:17] - Synthesis: Ego, Emotions, Evolution
[00:42:20] - Astrology, Experience, and Daily Impact
[00:44:05] - Astrology, Coaching, and Life Choices
[00:49:11] - Choices, Gut Feelings, and Butterfly Effects
[00:52:53] - Handling External Noise and Social Media
[00:58:53] - Journaling, Self-Observation, and Presence
[00:59:36] - Next Projects and Moving Forward
[01:01:32] - Storytelling and Community Visibility
[01:03:11] - Bravery, Authenticity, and Telling Stories
[01:04:44] - Wrapping Up: Fun, Connection, and Resources
[01:07:00] - Final Thanks and Outro

An extraordinary life starts within. Discover your inner strength and awaken a life worth being through experiential, equine-assisted life coaching. Welcome to My Universe!

Join me to explore, grow, & connect with like-minded women on the journey to creating a life worth being. Subscribe now and let’s awaken your limitless potential together!

Living Out Loud: Wendy Cole on Gender, Truth, and Creating Real Connection

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 03:01:00 -0400

What does it take to live fully as yourself—after decades of hiding who you really are?

In this moving episode of A Life Worth Being, Sue Willoughby sits down with Wendy Cole, a transgender woman who began her transition at age 67, after more than 45 years of trying to survive a life that never fit.

Wendy’s story is one of pain, resilience, and ultimately liberation. From her early childhood awareness of her gender identity, to the medical and societal gaslighting that kept her silent for decades, to finding the courage to step into her truth—this conversation offers deep insight into what it means to live authentically.

💬 In this episode, you’ll hear:

Why gender identity is hardwired—and misunderstood by most of society
How decades of suppression shaped Wendy’s mental health and relationships
What finally sparked her transition and self-acceptance
The impact of therapy, spiritual growth, and community
How Wendy is now helping others by educating, speaking, and co-hosting the “Demystifying Transgender” podcast

This episode isn’t just for people within the LGBTQIA+ community—it’s for anyone who wants to better understand identity, inclusion, and what it means to meet someone with empathy instead of assumptions.

🎧 Listen now and be part of a conversation that’s long overdue.

🔗 Learn more about Wendy’s work: https://www.meetwendycole.com

🔗 https://www.facebook.com/wcole212

🔗 https://www.instagram.com/wcole212/

Chapters

[00:00:00] - Introduction and Anniversary
[00:01:02] - Wendy Cole's Early Life
[00:06:29] - Societal Challenges and Struggles
[00:10:39] - Transition Journey and Self-Discovery
[00:15:35] - Transition Process and Reflections
[00:18:57] - Gender Incongruence and Society
[00:20:39] - Anniversary, Pride Month, and Ongoing Conversations
[00:21:30] - Horses, Coaching, and Authenticity
[00:24:36] - Project Collaborations and Mastermind Group
[00:34:15] - Advocacy, Misinformation, and Awareness
[00:39:07] - Community Support and Safety
[00:43:34] - Importance of Open Conversation
[00:46:10] - Connecting with Wendy and Closing Remarks
[00:50:08] - Closing Credits and Next Episode Preview

Thanks to my amazing Producer and editor Jess Grace Garcia (they/them) of Springwood Productions. https://www.springwoodproductions.com/

If you are curious about starting your own podcast feel free to reach out to us. Jess and I would love to help you on your journey to sharing your story and passion.

FOLLOW and CONNECT
Website - https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

An extraordinary life starts within. Discover your inner strength and awaken a life worth being through experiential, equine-assisted life coaching. Welcome to My Universe!

Join me to explore, grow, & connect with like-minded women on the journey to creating a life worth being. Subscribe now and let’s awaken your limitless potential together!

Beyond Monogamy: Dr. Joli Hamilton on Jealousy, Custom Relationships & Conscious Love

Tue, 27 May 2025 03:01:00 -0400

What if the love you want doesn’t fit the default script?
In this eye-opening episode of A Life Worth Being, Sue Willoughby welcomes psychologist, TEDx speaker, and relationship coach Dr. Joli Hamilton for a bold, honest, and refreshing deep dive into the world of conscious non-monogamy.
Joli specializes in helping couples who “color outside the lines” custom-design relationships that fit their values, desires, and identities. From navigating jealousy and redefining fidelity to understanding the different flavors of open relating (polyamory, consensual non-monogamy, relationship anarchy and more), Joli offers clarity, compassion, and humor.
✨ You’ll learn:
- The difference between cheating and consensual non-monogamy
- How to reframe jealousy as a tool for deeper self-awareness
- Why you don’t need to be poly to benefit from non-monogamy tools
- The keys to building custom relationships that actually work
- How queer, bi, and neurodiverse folks are leading the way in redefining intimacy

Whether you’re exploring open relationships, single and curious, or solidly monogamous but tired of the one-size-fits-all mold—this episode will expand your perspective on what love, trust, and connection can look like.

📍 Take Joli’s free quiz: https://www.jolihamilton.com/quiz

🔗 Learn more at https://www.jolihamilton.com/

📘 Explore jealousy work at https://www.jolihamilton.com/yes

[00:00:00] - Introduction and Opening Remarks
[00:01:17] - Host Welcomes Listeners
[00:02:08] - Introducing Non-Monogamy
[00:02:15] - Guest Introduction: Dr. Jolie Hamilton
[00:03:19] - Guest's Journey into Non-Monogamy
[00:05:23] - Foundations of Non-Monogamy
[00:08:26] - Emphasis on Self-Knowledge and Consent
[00:11:08] - Understanding Relationship Transitions
[00:14:04] - Jealousy and Communication Challenges
[00:18:13] - Relationship Transitions and Professional Support
[00:21:05] - Evolving Relationship Agreements
[00:22:07] - Podcast Anniversary and Pride Month
[00:23:03] - In-Depth Discussion on Jealousy
[00:26:29] - Navigating Third-Party Dynamics
[00:29:26] - Recognizing Drama and Authenticity
[00:31:04] - Key Relationship Skills Across Structures
[00:33:07] - Facing Fears and Relationship Realities
[00:34:07] - Intersection with LGBTQIA+ and Culture
[00:36:13] - Data on Generational and Cultural Participation
[00:37:16] - Safety, Stigma, and Coming Out
[00:38:56] - Community Practices and Lasting Friendships
[00:40:13] - Media Representation and Expectations
[00:41:36] - Need for More Diverse Relationship Stories
[00:42:23] - Advice and Resources for the Curious
[00:43:49] - Jealousy Resources and Self-Education
[00:44:54] - Final Thoughts and Closing Remarks

An extraordinary life starts within. Discover your inner strength and awaken a life worth being through experiential, equine-assisted life coaching. Welcome to My Universe!

Join me to explore, grow, & connect with like-minded women on the journey to creating a life worth being. Subscribe now and let’s awaken your limitless potential together!

Beyond the Hustle: How to Build Wealth Through Flow, Ancestral Wisdom & Energy

Tue, 20 May 2025 03:01:00 -0400

What if real success wasn’t something you hustled for—but something you remembered, embodied, and received?

In this soul-stirring episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby welcomes spiritual mentor, entrepreneur, and channel Michelle Jeovanny—whose journey from escaping trauma to building an intuitive, soul-led business is nothing short of extraordinary.

At 17, Michelle left the Dominican Republic, arriving in New York with no coat, no luggage, and a deep knowing that she was meant for something greater. Sleeping in trains and parks, she listened to her inner guidance and began walking a path that would lead to spiritual leadership, ancestral healing, and global impact.

✨ In this conversation, Michelle shares:

How trauma disconnects us from our gifts—and how to reclaim them
What it means to build wealth through energetic integrity and spiritual alignment
Why surrender is the secret to co-creating with the divine
The role of somatic healing, ancestral wisdom, and intuition in true leadership
Why every master was once a disaster—and how embracing your mess opens the door to transformation

If you're tired of the hustle, disconnected from your truth, or ready to lead from a deeper place, this episode will speak directly to your soul.

🔗 Connect with Michelle at michellejeovanny.com
🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichelleJeovanny
🎁 DM her “Sue’s community” on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/michelle.jeovanny) to receive a free AI + spiritual alignment guide.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Michelle Giovanni's Journey
11:37 Navigating Early Adulthood and Education
19:37 Building a Business and Personal Growth
28:48 Creating Transformative Containers for Growth
35:38 The Art of Surrender and Trust
41:35 Integrating AI with Spirituality

🔗 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

#LifeWorthBeing #Transformation #LifeCoach #Women #Empowerment #PersonalGrowth #InnerStrength #PurposefulLiving #MidlifeTransformation #Mindfulness #Mindset #SelfDiscovery #WomenEmpowerment #Midlifestrategies #MichelleJeovanny #SoulLedBusiness #SpiritualHealing #SomaticWisdom #AncestralHealing #TraumaToTransformation #FeminineLeadership #HealingJourney #EnergeticWealth #IntuitionIsPower #SacredBusiness #SurrenderToSoul #MidlifeAwakening #WomenWhoLead

Conquering Clouds: Wisdom, Adventure, and Spirit-Led Living at 82

Tue, 13 May 2025 03:01:00 -0400

What happens when you follow the whispers of your soul—across oceans, over mountaintops, and into the unknown?

In this awe-inspiring episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby speaks with 82-year-old author, aviator, and adventure pioneer Ruth E. Wilson—whose story defies gravity, fear, and convention.

From escaping a troubled home in rural Australia to becoming a world-renowned hot air and gas balloon pilot, Ruth’s journey spans decades, continents, and near-death experiences. She’s flown over the Swiss Alps, survived a shipwreck in shark-infested waters, and been saved by dolphins—and that’s just the beginning.

In this conversation, Ruth shares:

How a red swimsuit and a secret pageant started it all
What it feels like to hear your inner voice say “You were born to fly”
Why fear dissolves when you're living your purpose
Her spiritual encounters with dolphins, dream-guided balloon designs, and past life memories
Why positive thought—literally—saved her life in the ocean
How she honors her intuition and follows her stepping stones through life’s chaos

Ruth also talks about her award-winning memoir Conquering Clouds, how she self-published her second edition at age 82, and why it’s never too late to live a bold, soul-led life.

💫 If you’ve ever doubted your next move or felt afraid to follow your dreams—this episode will lift you up, quite literally.

🔗 Connect with Ruth at https://ruthewilson.com https://ruthewilson.com
📘 Order her book Conquering Clouds - https://a.co/d/7Fe7Wlx

🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ruth.wilson.54379

🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ruthwilson6087/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage
03:36 Early Life and Stepping Stones
06:56 The Journey into Ballooning
12:33 Experiences in the Sky: Close Calls and Adventures
23:28 Life Lessons from Extreme Challenges
32:05 Inspiration and Legacy
35:57 The Journey of Writing a Book
38:46 Personal Reflections and Emotional Depth
40:11 Recognition and Awards: The OAM
42:00 Career Transitions and New Beginnings
45:42 Embracing Change and Trusting Instincts
47:32 The Power of Choice: Love vs. Fear
48:57 Survival and the Strength of Positive Thinking
52:44 The Ripple Effect of Positivity
55:56 Finding Joy and Sharing Experiences
58:47 Stories of Transformation and Connection

No More F*cks to Give: Living Fully, Swearing Loudly & Trusting Yourself Again - Jen Vertanen

Tue, 06 May 2025 03:55:00 -0400

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

http://jenvertanen.com

🔗 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

Unlocking the Power of Hypnotherapy, Energy Healing, and Trusting Your Inner Voice

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 03:04:00 -0400

Break free from self-sabotage and step into the power of hypnotherapy, energy healing, and inner trust.

In this transformative episode of A Life Worth Being, Sue Willoughby welcomes clinical hypnotherapist, empowerment coach, and Reiki master Christina L. Woods to reveal how childhood beliefs, burnout, and hidden trauma often drive our self-sabotage—and how we can finally break free.

Drawing from her own journey of corporate success, personal collapse, and soulful reinvention, Christina shares:

How subconscious beliefs silently run (and sometimes ruin) our lives
Why hypnotherapy is a powerful tool for rewiring old patterns quickly
The surprising link between self-sabotage and our primal need for connection
How energy work like Reiki clears emotional blocks and amplifies healing
Why true freedom starts with radical self-trust and curiosity

🌱 If you’ve ever felt stuck, burned out, or trapped in cycles you can’t explain, this conversation will open your heart—and give you hope.

🎧 Tune in and learn how to step beyond fear, heal at the root, and finally reclaim your most authentic self.

🔗 Connect with Christina: christinalwoods.com
Follow on Instagram: @christina.lwoods

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Christina L. Woods
03:54 Christina's Journey from Corporate to Healing
08:12 The Wake-Up Call: Finding Authenticity
12:14 Understanding Self-Sabotage and Hypnotherapy
16:18 The Power of Hypnotherapy: Rewiring Beliefs
20:23 The Connection Between Emotions and Physical Health
22:31 Energy Work: The Role of Reiki in Healing
27:19 The Importance of Reconnecting with Self
32:20 Transformative Client Stories
36:17 Quick Healing: The Power of Rapid Transformational Therapy
38:31 Conclusion and Resources

hypnotherapy, self-discovery, self-sabotage, energy healing, emotional health, transformation, empowerment, coaching, wellness, personal growth

Burnout to Breakthrough: A Spiritual Awakening at Midlife

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 03:01:00 -0400

What if success didn’t mean checking the boxes—but checking in with your soul?

In this powerful episode of A Life Worth Being, Sue Willoughby is joined by spiritual mentor, bestselling author, and intuitive channel Jennifer Spor, who walked away from a high-level corporate role to follow her soul’s calling—and now helps others do the same.

Together, they explore:

What a “dark night of the soul” actually feels like—and why it often leads to awakening
Why living authentically requires letting go of who you think you should be
How to tune into your intuition and discern it from your ego
What the Akashic Records are—and how they can shift your timeline (yes, really)
The power of feminine leadership, embodiment, and trusting the unknown

Jennifer shares her personal transformation journey and the soul-stirring moment she chose presence over pressure—and freedom over fear. Plus, she introduces her signature Akashic Records teachings and how she helps others access their future selves.

✨ If you’ve ever asked, “Is this all there is?” this episode is your sacred yes to something more.

🎧 Tune in now and reconnect with the truth that’s always been inside you.

🔗 Learn more at jenniferspor.com and follow her podcast Path of the Awakened Heart.

Highest Destiny Free Meditation: https://join.jenniferspor.com/highestdestiny Website Link: https://www.jenniferspor.com/ Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/JenniferSporCoaching Instagram Link: https://www.instagram.com/jennifer_spor/ 🔗 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 Sound Bites

"I'm done allowing myself to be stuck."
"Trusting the journey is essential."
"We are powerful, very powerful."

Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jennifer Spor's Journey 03:33 Catalyst for Change: The Dark Night of the Soul 12:16 Embracing Intuition and Spiritual Awakening 25:05 Understanding the Akashic Records 32:40 Current Focus and Mission in Coaching spiritual awakening, Akashic records, intuition, personal growth, coaching, Jennifer Spor, life transformation, empowerment, meditation, soul purpose

Cost of Staying: Why Playing It Safe Is Riskier Than You Think

Tue, 15 Apr 2025 03:01:00 -0400

What’s the real cost of staying in something that no longer fits—your job, your identity, or your idea of success?

In this episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby sits down with author, coach, and former Fortune 50 exec Kristen Chimack, who walked away from a 30-year corporate career to reclaim her energy, purpose, and self.

Together, they unpack:

The hidden toll of staying “stuck” (even in a 6-figure job)
How to listen to the whispers that tell you it’s time to move on
Why it’s so hard to let go of identities, benefits, and other safety nets
The power of core values and alignment in your career + life
How to take small, practical steps toward something more meaningful

Kristen also shares insights from her brand-new book, The Cost of Staying, and introduces her 4-phase framework for growth: Whispers, Letting Go, Possibilities, and Integration.

If you’re questioning your path or wondering, is this all there is?, this episode is your permission slip to ask for more—and go find it.

Chapters

00:00 The Journey of Leaving Corporate America
16:35 Embracing New Beginnings and Authenticity
31:17 The Cost of Staying vs. The Cost of Leaving

🔗 Connect with Kristen at https://kristenschimack.com or on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenschimack/
📘 Get her new book The Cost of Staying + free downloadable workbook on her site.

🔗 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/⁠⁠

YT: https://www.youtube.com/@SueWilloughby

AI Survival Guide: What You Need to Know Right Now!

Tue, 08 Apr 2025 03:01:00 -0400

Feeling overwhelmed by AI? You’re not alone—and you’re not too late.

In this must-listen episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby sits down with Nicole Hilgenkamp, founder of AIboration and fractional Chief AI Officer, to deliver a no-fluff, human-centered AI survival guide for real life.

With over 20 years in digital innovation, Nicole breaks down what you actually need to know about artificial intelligence - whether you’re a total beginner, a creative entrepreneur, or just trying to keep up with your kids.

You’ll learn:

What AI is—and isn’t
Simple tools to start using AI safely and smartly today
How to use AI to save time, reduce stress, and amplify your strengths
Common mistakes to avoid (so you don’t accidentally feed the machine your whole customer database 😬)
Why human connection, trust, and emotional intelligence matter more than ever

🔐 Plus: How to protect yourself from scams, what “hallucination” means in AI speak, and why your new digital assistant might just become your brutally honest best friend.

This is your practical, non-techy guide to surviving—and thriving—in the AI era.

💡 Get Curious, Get Safe, Get Started
🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you stream.
🔗 Connect with Nicole on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolehilgenkamp/
🌐 Learn more about AIboration: https://www.aiboration.com (if applicable—feel free to replace)

🙌 Don’t forget to share this with a friend who needs a crash course in AI—or maybe a reality check from their new digital bestie.

Join me to explore, grow, & connect with like-minded women on the journey to creating a life worth living. Subscribe now and let’s awaken your limitless potential together!

Connect with Sue
Upcoming Equus Retreats: https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/events

Website - https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

Coming Out, Letting Go & Burning It Down with Lisa Kirkman

Tue, 01 Apr 2025 03:01:00 -0400

In this deeply honest and empowering episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby welcomes authenticity coach, author, and podcast host Lisa Kirkman for a raw conversation about identity, courage, and rewriting your life story—literally.

Lisa came out as a lesbian at 46 after decades of living behind roles, expectations, and a perfectly curated life. She shares her journey from feeling "dead inside" to stepping into her most unapologetic, vibrant self. Together, Sue and Lisa explore what it really means to burn the script—to stop living by someone else’s rules and start creating a life that aligns with your truth.

Whether you're navigating midlife, facing a major life transition, or simply tired of living inauthentically, this episode will light a fire under you. Expect powerful takeaways on self-awareness, boundaries, emotional healing, and the art of letting go.

✨ Topics we cover:

Why people-pleasing keeps us stuck
What happens when we ignore our truth for too long
The mind-body connection of living out of alignment
How horses and Reiki help us return to our bodies
Steps to reclaim your identity and build a life you actually want

👣 Tiny steps. Big shifts. Radical self-trust.
Let this be your permission slip to start again—your way.

🔗 Connect with Lisa Kirkman:
Web: http://www.lisakirkman.com.au
FB: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61569042251689
IG: http://www.instagram.com/lisakirkmancoaching
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@biggayoverallspodcast
Books on Amazon:
Burn the Script - https://a.co/d/60uYf83
Dying Inside - https://a.co/d/9DcEZoM

🔗 Connect with Sue Willoughby:
Get my Free Midlife Makeover - https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/5daychallenge
StanStore: https://stan.store/sue_willoughby⁠
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

"Spreading Joy & Activism: The Story Behind Optimistic Soap" with Molly Lee

Tue, 25 Mar 2025 03:01:00 -0400

In this uplifting episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby chats with Molly Lee, the founder of Optimistic Soap. What started as a creative side hustle has transformed into a purpose-driven business that merges artistry, activism, and community impact. Molly shares her journey of turning soap-making into a force for change—supporting causes, embracing advocacy, and building a brand that stands for more than just skincare.

Join the conversation as they discuss:

✅ The power of purpose-driven entrepreneurship

✅ Balancing activism and business in today's world

✅ Staying optimistic and making an impact, one step at a time

✅ The importance of self-care and community support

Connect with Molly:

Instagram: optimisticsoap

Facebook: OptimisticSoap

Website: optimisticsoap.com

"The Power of Music, Healing, and Self-Discovery" with Amber Lyn

Tue, 18 Mar 2025 03:01:00 -0400

In this powerful episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue sits down with Amber Lyn—an award-winning singer-songwriter, author, and speaker. Amber shares her deeply personal journey of resilience, self-discovery, and healing through music. From growing up without a father to finding her voice through songwriting, she recounts how a life-changing dream led her to write A Girl’s First Love, a song that earned her recognition and inspired countless listeners. The conversation also delves into personal growth, overcoming fears, and the power of embracing one’s worth. Tune in for an inspiring discussion about transformation, authenticity, and the courage to follow your calling.

Connect with Amber:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amberlyn.life?mibextid=LQQJ4d Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amberlynspeaker/ Youtube: @amberlyn-speaker

"Living Unapologetically: Finding Joy and Purpose in Midlife" with Kari Boatner

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 03:01:00 -0400

In this inspiring episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby sits down with midlife transformation coach Kari Boatner to discuss the power of embracing change. They explore the challenges of midlife transitions, the importance of authenticity, and how to navigate personal growth with humor, empathy, and fearless accountability. Whether you're facing career shifts, personal reinvention, or seeking a deeper sense of fulfillment, this conversation will leave you feeling empowered to take bold steps toward the life you truly want. Tune in for laughter, wisdom, and encouragement to live unapologetically!

Connect with Kari Boatner:

🌐 Website: www.kariboatnercoaching.com

📷 Instagram: @kariboatnercoaching

📘 Facebook: Kari Boatner Coaching

🔗 LinkedIn: Kari Boatner

Rescued Hearts - The Healing Power of Horses & Film

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 03:01:00 -0500

In this heartfelt episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue welcomes award-winning filmmaker Dana Croschere to discuss her powerful journey from chronic pain to healing. Dana shares how her experiences inspired her films Love Heals and the upcoming Rescued Hearts, which explores the deep connection between humans and horses. She dives into the transformative power of equine therapy, the challenges of filmmaking, and the magic that happens when people open their hearts to healing.

📌 Topics Covered:

*Dana’s personal healing journey after chronic pain and spine surgeries *The making of Love Heals and Rescued Hearts

*How horses facilitate emotional and physical healing

*The power of intuition and self-discovery

*Upcoming film screenings and how to support the project

🎬 Support & Follow Rescued Hearts:

🌐 Website: rescuedheartsfilm.com

📸 Instagram: @rescuedheartsfilm

📘 Facebook: @rescuedheartsfilm

🎥 YouTube: Live Wild Films

"Breaking Free: Overcoming Life’s Boxes" with Betsy Pepine

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 03:01:00 -0500

In this insightful episode of A Life Worth Being, we welcome bestselling author and entrepreneur Betsy Pepine, whose latest book, Breaking Boxes: Dismantling the Metaphorical Boxes That Bind Us, explores the societal and self-imposed limitations we often struggle with. Betsy shares her personal journey of transformation—navigating career shifts, breaking free from expectations, and rediscovering authenticity. From her success in real estate to her passion for helping others embrace change, Betsy dives into the importance of identifying and overcoming restrictive labels. If you’ve ever felt trapped in a role that no longer serves you, this episode is a must-listen! Tune in for inspiring insights, practical strategies, and a reminder that it’s never too late to reclaim your true self.

Connect with Betsy:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/betsypepine

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betsypepine?igsh=Zm1sMWRhdDk3djB2

YouTube: @BetsyPepine

"Unlocking Intuition and Emotional Healing" with Rebecca Kane

Tue, 18 Feb 2025 03:01:00 -0500

In this enlightening episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby welcomes Rebecca Kane, a renowned psychic medium, emotion code practitioner, and holistic spiritual coach. Rebecca shares her extraordinary journey—from surviving ovarian cancer to discovering her psychic abilities and helping people reclaim their personal power. She dives deep into the power of intuition, clearing trapped emotions, and the profound impact of spiritual awakening. If you're looking to break through emotional barriers and strengthen your intuitive abilities, this episode is a must-listen!🔮✨

"The Power of Inner Work & Business Growth" with Sara Avant Stover

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 03:01:00 -0500

In this episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby welcomes bestselling author, business strategist, and mentor Sara Avant Stover. With 25 years of experience in yoga, Buddhist meditation, and Internal Family Systems (IFS), Sara empowers spiritual women entrepreneurs to break free from limiting beliefs and build thriving businesses without burnout. 🌟

Topics Covered:

✔️ Sara’s life-changing journey from NYC to Thailand

✔️ How Buddhist meditation and yoga shaped her business approach

✔️ The role of Internal Family Systems (IFS) in overcoming fear and self-doubt

✔️ How to align business success with spiritual values

✔️ Insights from Sara’s new book Handbook for the Heartbroken

💡 Connect with Sarah Avant Stover: 🔗 Website: SaraAvantStover.com 🎙️ Podcast: Herself Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/SaraAvantStover/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saraavantstoverauthor/ Linkdin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/saraavantstover/

"Unlocking Your True Potential with Human Design" with Mel McSherry

Tue, 04 Feb 2025 03:01:00 -0500

Are you living in alignment with your true self? 🤔

In this episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby sits down with international business and life guide Mel McSherry to explore the fascinating world of Human Design.

🌟 Mel shares how understanding your unique energetic blueprint can revolutionize your personal and professional life. From manifestors and generators to projectors and reflectors, she explains how different types are wired for success in their own way.

📌 Connect with Mel McSherry: 🔗 Website: MelMcSherry.com 📲 Instagram: @mel_mcsherry 💼 LinkedIn: Mel McSherry

Overcoming Self-Doubt: Embrace Your Creativity and Chase Your Dreams" With Amy L Bernstein

Tue, 28 Jan 2025 10:44:06 -0500

In this inspiring episode of A Life Worth Being, award-winning author, journalist, and certified nonfiction book coach Amy L. Bernstein joins us to explore the art of overcoming self-doubt and embracing your creative journey.

Amy shares her wisdom on silencing the inner critic, managing fears, and finding inspiration—ideas she expands on in her upcoming book, Wrangling the Doubt Monster: Fighting Fears, Finding Inspiration. Whether you're an artist, writer, or dreamer, this conversation is a powerful guide to chasing your creative dreams with confidence.

🎙 Highlights:

How to embrace vulnerability and turn self-doubt into a creative asset
Tips for rediscovering your creativity at any stage of life
The importance of building a supportive network
Why starting small and taking risks is key to personal growth

📚 Buy Amy’s Book:
Wrangling the Doubt Monster – https://amzn.to/4gc0RHT

💬 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going:
What’s the biggest risk you’ve taken to chase your dreams? Share in the comments below!

✨ Don’t forget to LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE for more inspiring content to help you create a life worth being.

🔗 Connect with Amy L. Bernstein: Website: amywrites.live Instagram: amylbernstein Faceboon: https://www.facebook.com/amy.bernstein.391 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amylbernstein/

"From Trauma to Triumph: Healing, Empowerment, and Transformation" With Jennifer Pilates

Tue, 21 Jan 2025 03:01:00 -0500

In this inspiring episode of A Life Worth Being, Sue Willoughby sits down with Jennifer Pilates, a celebrity trainer, intuitive coach, health and wellness expert, and the host of the top-rated podcast Empowered Within. Jennifer shares her extraordinary journey of resilience, from overcoming a life-altering car accident to becoming a pioneer in holistic healing with tools like light therapy patches. Discover her transformative insights on healing, spiritual growth, and how she empowers others to connect with their true essence.

Don't miss the opportunity to feature Jennifer on your podcast and inspire your listeners with her extraordinary journey and transformative insights!

Connect with Jennifer Pilates:

🌐 Web: http://empoweredbodymindspirit.com/

🎙 Podcast: Empowered Within with Jennifer Pilates

📸 Instagram: @thejenniferpilates 💼 LinkedIn: Jennifer Pilates

▶️ YouTube: @EmpoweredWithinJenniferPilates

👍 Facebook: Jennifer Pilates

"Overcoming Religious Trauma and Attachment Wounds" With Kyleigh Weathers

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 03:01:00 -0500

In this heartfelt episode of Life Worth Being, Sue Willoughby sits down with certified attachment coach Kylie Weathers. Together, they explore Kylie’s unique journey of growing up as a lesbian within the Mormon Church, grappling with religious trauma, attachment wounds, and the path to self-acceptance. Kylie shares her struggles with internalized homophobia, how leaving the church shaped her path, and her creation of Queerly Attached—a coaching program that helps queer folks build secure attachments and rediscover their worth.

Connect with Kyleigh:

Instagram: queerlyattached

Facebook: QueerlyAttached , kyweathers

Website: https://queerlyattached.net/

Youtube: @QueerlyAttached

Redefining Life Without Alcohol with Brandi Babb

Tue, 07 Jan 2025 03:01:00 -0500

In this inspiring episode of A Life Worth Being, Sue Willoughby welcomes special guest Brandi Babb, a certified life and somatic coach, to discuss redefining our relationship with alcohol. Brandi shares her journey of stepping away from alcohol in 2019, founding Little Big Leap Coaching, and co-creating the Zero Proof Life online community.

From Resolutions to Roots: A Vision for 2025

Tue, 31 Dec 2024 03:09:20 -0500

In the final episode of 2024, the host Sue Willoughby of A Life Worth Being reflects on the year's challenges and shares a powerful vision for 2025. Breaking away from the trap of rigid resolutions, she explores the transformative potential of setting meaningful intentions. With a focus on cultivating equanimity, she offers insights on how to stay grounded and thrive amidst life's inevitable turbulence. Tune in for wisdom, actionable advice, and a heartfelt invitation to make the new year your best yet.

Happy Holidays, Merry Christmas, and Vision for 2025 with Sue Willoughby

Tue, 24 Dec 2024 03:01:00 -0500

Celebrate the joy of the season with Sue Willoughby, host of A Life Worth Being! 🎄✨ In this heartwarming holiday episode, Sue extends her warmest greetings to you and your loved ones, wishing everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Looking ahead to 2025, Sue shares her inspiring vision for personal growth, connection, and living a life full of purpose. Join her for a message of hope, gratitude, and aspirations for the year to come. 🌟

Wishing you peace, love, and fulfillment this holiday season and always.

Join me to explore, grow, & connect with like-minded women on the journey to creating a life worth living. Subscribe now and let’s awaken your limitless potential together!

Purpose and Passion After 50: Debbie McCullough on Reinventing Life

Tue, 17 Dec 2024 03:01:00 -0500

Join host Sue Willoughby on A Life Worth Being as she welcomes special guest Debbie McCullough, an inspiring force behind the Older and Bolder podcast. Debbie shares her journey from a fulfilling 40-year career as a community pharmacist to embracing a vibrant second act as a podcaster and advocate for women over 50.

In this heartfelt episode, Debbie reflects on overcoming profound personal losses, including the murder of her sister and the passing of her husband, and how those experiences shaped her belief in living fully. She shares inspiring stories from her podcast, featuring extraordinary women redefining what it means to thrive later in life.

Debbie reminds us that it’s never too late to pursue new passions, pivot after setbacks, and step out of our comfort zones. Whether it's finding joy in painting, becoming a yoga instructor at 78, or starting a new career, Debbie’s message is clear: "We only have one life—it’s up to us to make the best of it."

Tune in for an uplifting conversation filled with wisdom, courage, and practical advice for creating a life worth being.

Episode Highlights:

- Debbie’s transformation from pharmacist to podcast host.
- Stories of resilience from women over 50 finding purpose and joy.
- How stepping out of your comfort zone can change your life.

🎙 Subscribe to A Life Worth Being for weekly inspiration, and don’t forget to check out Debbie McCullough’s podcast, Older and Bolder, for more incredible stories.

Connect with Debbie

🌐 Website: https://olderandbolder.ca/

🎙️ Podcast: https://soundcloud.com/debbie_mcculloch

📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/olderandbolderpodcast/

👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090558607288

Connect with Sue

🌐 Website: https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/
👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/
💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

Mastering Life Balance and Emotional Intelligence with Rhonda Parker Taylor

Tue, 10 Dec 2024 03:31:00 -0500

In this episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby sits down with Rhonda Parker Taylor—acclaimed author of the suspense novel Crossroads—to explore the intersection of life balance, emotional intelligence, and the power of storytelling.

Rhonda shares how the central themes in Crossroads, including the protagonist’s struggles with career demands and personal obligations, resonate with the challenges many of us face today. She provides practical strategies to prioritize values, set boundaries, and use emotional intelligence to navigate life’s complexities.

Listen in as Rhonda and Sue discuss actionable tips for improving relationships, managing stress, and fostering resilience. Whether you're balancing a busy schedule or navigating emotional challenges, this episode offers tools to help you create a life that’s not just lived but truly worth being.

Don’t miss this engaging conversation that blends suspenseful storytelling with real-life insights for personal growth and fulfillment.

🌐 Connect with Rhonda:
💻 Website: https://rhondaparkertaylor.com
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rhondaparkertaylor/
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rhondaparkertaylor/

📖 Get a copy of her latest book, Crossroads! A must-read suspense novel:
📚 https://amzn.to/3lYXRsh

✨ Don’t miss out on this thrilling and insightful read!

Connect with Sue Willoughby: Get my Free Midlife Makeover - https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/5daychallenge StanStore: https://stan.store/sue_willoughby⁠ Website - https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/ Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

From Struggles to Success: How Neena Perez Turned Pain Into Power

Tue, 03 Dec 2024 03:01:00 -0500

In this powerful episode, we dive into the extraordinary story of Neena Perez, an entrepreneur, transformational coach, and motivational speaker. Neena shares her inspiring journey of overcoming childhood abuse, teen pregnancy, domestic violence, and homelessness to build a life filled with faith, resilience, and purpose.

She reveals how her challenges shaped her mission to empower women through her coaching business, leveraging her expertise to turn wisdom into wealth. Learn about her philosophy of inner healing, her three-step coaching model, and the strategies she uses to help women transition into thriving entrepreneurial roles.

Discover actionable insights, mindset shifts, and the power of authenticity in transforming life's struggles into stepping stones for success.

https://go.neenaperez.com/course-MMC

Connect with Neena Perez - https://linktr.ee/Coachneena

Web: https://neenaperez.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/neena.perez
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/neenaperez/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neenaperez/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/c/straighttalknosugaraddedwithneenaperez

Listen to her Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-talk-no-sugar-added-podcast/id1437575497

Don’t forget to subscribe, like, and share this episode with someone who needs inspiration! Let us know your favorite takeaway in the comments.

Connect with Sue Willoughby:
Get my Free Midlife Makeover - https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/5daychallenge
StanStore: https://stan.store/sue_willoughby⁠
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/

Reflecting on Three Years Alcohol-Free: My Journey to a Life Worth Being

Sun, 01 Dec 2024 00:21:33 -0500

In this deeply personal and inspiring episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby opens up about her three-year journey of living alcohol-free. Sue shares the challenges and triumphs of changing her relationship with alcohol, the societal stigma she faced, and the tools that helped her succeed—including journaling, self-reflection, and embracing personal growth.

Whether you’re curious about moderating your drinking, contemplating a lifestyle change, or just seeking inspiration for personal transformation, Sue’s candid reflections offer invaluable insights.

Tune in to hear how Sue navigated her path to clarity, self-awareness, and empowerment—and how you, too, can evaluate what no longer serves you and step into a life worth being.

#lifeworthbeing #TransformationalLifeCoach #WomenEmpowerment #PersonalGrowth #InnerStrength #PurposefulLiving #MidlifeTransformation #MeaningfulLife #SelfDiscovery #WomenEmpowerment #AlcoholFreeJourney #SoberLiving #PersonalGrowth #SelfDiscovery #LettingGo #Empowerment #MindfulLiving #SobrietyJourney #WomenAndSobriety #LifeWorthBeing #SelfReflection #AlcoholAwareness #TransformationJourney

Thank you for listening! If you're seeking more insights on living a truly meaningful and fulfilling life, be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel. https://www.youtube.com/@SueWilloughby

An extraordinary life starts within. Discover your inner strength and awaken a life worth being through experiential, equine-assisted life coaching.

Welcome to My Universe! I am Sue Willoughby, transformational life coach & host of A Life Worth Being—a podcast that dives deep to help you uncover the true meaning of a fulfilling life. This podcast is here to inspire and empower women over 40 to step into their fullest potential, break through limitations, and truly thrive.

Each week, we bring you powerful podcasts filled with real-life stories of transformation, resilience, and courage. Expect raw, heart-centered conversations and life-changing insights designed to help you break boundaries and start crafting a life brimming with purpose, joy, and passion.

This is more than just a podcast; it’s a community. Join me to explore, grow, & connect with like-minded women on the journey to creating a life worth living. Subscribe now and let’s awaken your limitless potential together!

Connect with Sue

Book a call: https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/coaching-assessment

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/

Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

Riding the Path to Recovery with Nancy McKay

Tue, 26 Nov 2024 10:40:09 -0500

In this episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby welcomes Nancy McKay, a Certified Wayfinder Life Coach and ovarian cancer survivor. Join us as Nancy shares her inspiring journey of recovery from alcohol use disorder, the impact of her work with horses in healing, and her mission to empower women facing similar challenges. Discover how Nancy founded Amazing Outlook Coaching at 61 and became a two-time international best-selling author. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation about smashing stigmas, finding strength, and embracing life after adversity!

Connect with Nancy McKay
Web: https://www.amazingoutlookcoaching.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/amazingoutlookcoaching
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amazingoutlookcoaching/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancymckay/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtngVhVK8dcneQyJjDDWMag/
Unbridle Your Healing Journey eBook: https://bit.ly/3Hxdtuw

Simplifying Social Media: Purpose-Driven Strategies for Small Business Success with Peg Fitzpatrick

Tue, 19 Nov 2024 03:01:00 -0500

Welcome to A Life Worth Being with your host, Sue Willoughby! In this episode, we're diving into the world of social media with expert Peg Fitzpatrick. Join us for a conversation about her insights on Simplifying Social Media: Purpose-Driven Strategies for Small Business Success. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by social media marketing, this episode is for you! Peg shares quick wins for simplifying your strategy, focusing on creating purposeful and engaging content that truly connects with your ideal clients. You'll walk away with actionable tips you can implement immediately to boost your online presence and start seeing real results. Peg Fitzpatrick is a seasoned social media strategist, speaker, and author of The Art of Small Business Social Media: A Blueprint for Marketing Success. With over a decade of experience working with top brands like Canva, Audi, and TJ Maxx, Peg has honed her expertise in building impactful social media strategies. As the former Head of Social Strategy at Canva, she played a pivotal role in establishing the brand's early social presence. Now, she’s dedicated to empowering small businesses and entrepreneurs to succeed online through effective social media strategies. Tune in for a wealth of knowledge and inspiration that will help you navigate the digital landscape with confidence!

Connect with Peg Fitzpatrick:

Web: https://pegfitzpatrick.com/
FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/PegFitzpatrick
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pegfitzpatrick/
Book: https://amzn.to/4hU2SKS

Connect with Sue Willoughby:
Get my Free Midlife Makeover - https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/5daychallenge
StanStore: https://stan.store/sue_willoughby⁠
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/

Breaking Free: Alison Smith's 10-Minute Mindset Shift to Find Clarity & Motivation

Tue, 12 Nov 2024 23:16:58 -0500

Welcome to A Life Worth Being! In this episode, we’re thrilled to welcome Alison Smith, an expert in helping people shift their mindset and find clarity in moments of uncertainty. If you've ever felt stuck, lost, or simply fed up with going in circles, this episode is for you! Alison introduces her powerful 10-Minute Mindset Shift exercise, designed to help you break free from unproductive cycles and restore a sense of calm and focus. By the end of this episode, you’ll feel more motivated, have a clear action plan, and be ready to tackle your goals with a fresh perspective. Don't miss this transformative session—listen now to kickstart a positive change in your life!

#mindsetshift #mentalhealth #LifeWorthBeing #mindcontrol #TransforationalLifeCoach #WomenEmpowerment #PersonalGrowth #InnerStrength #PurposefulLiving #MidlifeTransformation #MeaningfulLife #SelfDiscovery #WomenEmpowerment

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Connect with Alison Smith

Website: https://www.alisonsmith.co

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LandscapingYourLife/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/landscapingyourlife

Book(s): https://amzn.eu/d/hI3VpuM https://amzn.eu/d/9Uhd1UA

Free Gift: My 'Going Round In Circles' resource: https://www.alisonsmith.co/are-you-going-round-in-circles-2/

Connect with Sue Willoughby

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Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

For the Love of Family: Zorina Pritchett on Games, Resilience, and Purpose

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 03:01:00 -0500

In this heartfelt episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby talks with Zorina Pritchett, a disabled Army veteran, caregiver, and founder of Zochey, a unique game company focused on fostering connection, family bonding, and digital balance. Zorina shares the remarkable story of how a vivid dream led her to create Zomatic Shift, a quick-play card game designed to bring families together away from screens. As a caregiver for her brother, who experienced a brain stroke, and a grandmother passionate about giving kids meaningful interactions, Zorina speaks candidly about resilience, self-compassion, and finding purpose later in life. Through her advocacy for digital balance and inclusive play, she inspires us to think beyond ourselves, cherish moments of connection, and take bold steps toward our dreams, no matter our age.

Takeaways

Understanding the 'why' behind actions enhances memory retention.
Without a clear purpose, actions can feel meaningless.
A strong 'why' can guide decisions and actions in life.
Knowing the root cause of actions leads to deeper learning.
Purposeful living can transform mundane tasks into meaningful experiences.
Clarity of purpose can drive motivation and engagement.
Understanding one's motivations can lead to personal growth.
A clear 'why' can help navigate challenges and obstacles.
Reflecting on purpose can lead to greater fulfillment.
The journey of understanding one's 'why' is ongoing and evolving.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Zorina Prashe and Her Journey

03:50 The Birth of Zochey: A New Entrepreneur's Dream

06:54 The Importance of Family Engagement and Digital Balance

09:50 Navigating Challenges: From Game Development to Personal Growth

12:46 Creating Connections: The Role of Games in Family Dynamics

15:49 Resilience and Purpose: Zorina's Life Lessons

18:43 Future Aspirations: Expanding Zochey's Impact

21:31 Advocacy for Children and Seniors in a Digital Age

24:20 Final Thoughts: Embracing Humanity and Connection

Connect with Zorina Pritchett

Website: http://zochey.com

Connect with Sue Willoughby

Get my Free Midlife Makeover: https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/5daychallenge

FB: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/⁠⁠

Insta: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/⁠⁠

IG: https://www.instagram.com/midlifefreedomangel/

#FamilyConnection #DigitalBalance #ResilientLiving #VeteranEntrepreneur #QuickPlayGames #ZomaticShift #ZochiGames #CaregiverJourney #PurposefulLiving #InspiringWomen #MindfulParenting #LifeAfter40 #NeverTooOld #ScreenFree

Horses, Healing, and Midlife Magic: Lindsay de Swart’s Path to Purpose

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 03:01:00 -0400

In this uplifting episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby welcomes Lindsay de Swart, a shamanic coach, energy healer, and horse whisperer with over 20 years of experience helping women ignite their inner spark. Together, they explore the transformative journey of finding passion and purpose in midlife, embracing new beginnings, and the courage it takes to start over. Lindsay shares her approach to rediscovering joy by reconnecting with what truly brings fulfillment. She also reveals the remarkable wisdom of horses as intuitive healers and their unique ability to mirror our own growth. If you’ve ever wondered how to find deeper purpose, reclaim your passions, and live with intention in every chapter of life, this episode offers insightful guidance and inspiration to light your way.

Takeaways

We're all multi-passionate.
It's not just one thing that drives us.
Finding clarity in passions is crucial.
Not everyone can excel at all passions.
Sharing expertise can lead to purpose.
Passion clarity helps in personal development.
Outdoor activities can be a source of joy.
Coaching is a significant aspect of my life.
Engaging with passions can enhance well-being.
Exploring various interests enriches life.

Sound Bites

"We're all multi-passionate."

"I have loads of passions."

"Am I brilliant at all of them? No."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Lindsay De Swart

04:23 The Journey of Podcasting

07:08 Defining Purpose and Passion

13:00 The Importance of New Starts

15:57 Embracing Change in Midlife

21:52 Finding Passion and Purpose

27:43 The Role of Horses in Healing

33:30 Connecting with Horses Energetically

39:21 The Power of Energy Healing

45:19 Building Relationships with Horses

51:09 Conclusion and Future Connections

Connect with Lindsay de Swart

FREE GIFT: Purpose Pivot https://stan.store/Lindsayds/p/purpose-68n5d

Web: https://stan.store/Lindsayds

FB: https://www.facebook.com/groups/magicalmidlifefreedom

Connect with Sue Willoughby:

Get my Free Midlife Makeover - https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/5daychallenge

FB: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/⁠⁠

Insta: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/⁠⁠

Life Without a Tie: How Ray Martin Found Freedom in a 14-Year Sabbatical

Tue, 22 Oct 2024 03:01:00 -0400

In this inspiring episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby talks with Ray Martin, a transformational coach, marathon runner, and author of Life Without a Tie. Ray’s story is one of reinvention: after his business, marriage, and life imploded all at once, he set out on a six-month sabbatical that unexpectedly turned into a 14-year journey of self-discovery. From becoming a backpacker at 44 to performing in a play with no acting experience, to running his first marathon at 48, Ray redefined his life by embracing adventure, uncertainty, and authenticity. Tune in to learn how Ray turned personal devastation into a quest for joy, found clarity through letting go of the need for control, and discovered the power of rewriting your own story. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a life that doesn’t feel like your own, this episode will remind you that it’s never too late to find your true path.

Takeaways

Ray's journey began with a personal crisis that led to self-discovery.
Helping others can create breakthroughs in our own lives.
Living authentically is crucial for true happiness.
The importance of taking 100% ownership of one's life.
Becoming an observer of your thoughts can provide clarity.
Life is a series of roles we play, and we can change them.
Confirmation signals can guide us in our decisions.
Ray's experiences led him to write a book about his journey.
Traveling and new experiences can lead to profound insights.
It's never too late to rewrite your life story.

Sound Bites

"I felt like I was living someone else's life."

"I wished I'd lived my life true to myself."

"What quest am I on?"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Ray Martin's Journey

02:50 The Catalyst for Change

05:46 Finding True Path and Purpose

09:00 The Power of Helping Others

12:04 Embracing New Opportunities

14:58 The Character Analogy in Life

18:04 Six Rules for Happiness

21:03 Becoming Your Own Observer

24:01 The Birth of a Book

26:56 Confirmation Signals in Life

30:11 Ray's Future Plans and Reflections

Connect With Ray Martin

Website: http://www.lifewithoutatie.com

Connect with Sue Willoughby:

Get my Free Midlife Makeover: https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/5daychallenge

⁠Web: ⁠https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/⁠⁠

Insta: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/⁠⁠

FB: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/⁠⁠

Untangling the Divorce Decision Dilemma: Finding Clarity and Certainty with Mike Fink

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 03:01:00 -0400

In this episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby is joined by Mike Fink, a clarity and decision-making expert who specializes in helping women navigate the complexities of divorce. Mike shares his powerful method for guiding clients through tough decisions with a sense of certainty and peace of mind. Using his "decoding grid" and the unique analogy of a Rubik’s Cube, Mike walks listeners through the process of aligning head, heart, and gut to make confident choices that serve their deepest values. He also explores the biological and emotional factors that keep many women stuck in indecision, offering practical strategies for gaining clarity. Whether you’re facing a major life decision or simply want to refine your decision-making skills, this conversation will provide actionable insights on how to confidently move forward, even when the stakes are high.

Takeaways

70% of divorces are initiated by women.
Indecision can affect mental health and relationships.
There is a structured process to achieve clarity.
The brain's primal instincts often keep us stuck.
Gathering all pieces of the puzzle is essential for decision-making.
Values should be ranked to create order from chaos.
Visual assessments can clarify relationship health.
Outsourcing needs can alleviate relationship pressure.
Clarity can be achieved in 30 days or less.
The Decoding Grid is a powerful tool for decision-making.

Sound Bites

"70% of divorces are initiated by women."

"There is a natural process to make decisions."

"Indecision affects your life on many levels."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Clarity in Decision Making

04:46 Mike's Origin Story and the Impact of Indecision

07:26 The Dilemma of Women Considering Divorce

11:22 Helping Women Considering Divorce

15:00 The Role of Uncertainty in Decision Making

20:52 Steps to Make a Decision

26:30 Communicating Certainty to the Primal and Emotional Brain

30:40 Introduction and Different Scenarios

32:53 The Importance of Visualization

35:02 Using the Decoding Grid to Assess Relationships

37:23 Case Study: Assessing a Troubled Marriage

45:57 Understanding and Accepting Emotions

50:54 Making Decisions with Clarity and Certainty

Connect with Mike Fink

Website: https://www.getabsoluteclarity.com/

Book: https://www.getabsoluteclarity.com/ddd-book

Connect with Sue Willoughby:

Get my Free Midlife Makeover: https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/5daychallenge

FB: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/⁠⁠

Insta: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/⁠⁠

Book: Conversations of Consequence: Lessons from the Still-Small Voice

Keywords

divorce, decision-making, clarity, relationships, emotional intelligence, personal development, women's empowerment, indecision, mental health, coaching

The Power of Surrender: Embracing Change and Finding Grace with Amilynne Carroll

Tue, 08 Oct 2024 03:01:00 -0400

In this transformative episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby welcomes Amilynne, a spiritual and trauma coach, TEDx speaker, and author. Together, they dive deep into the nature of personal transformation, discussing the power of breaking free from societal expectations, overcoming fear, and stepping into your true self. Amilynne shares her journey of embracing change and how she views transformation not as becoming something different, but as rediscovering who you’ve always been. They explore the comfort zones that hold us back, the importance of beliefs, and how fear is often just our imagination on overdrive. Amilynne's inspiring personal story, including her resilience following a stroke, is a testament to the beauty of surrendering to life’s challenges and finding grace in every moment. Tune in for a powerful conversation about embracing growth, even when it’s uncomfortable, and learning to show up fully for yourself.

Takeaways

Embracing darkness can lead to personal growth.

Transitions can be beautiful, not just easy.

Showing up for ourselves is crucial during changes.

Life's challenges push us out of our comfort zones.

Self-discovery often comes from questioning our experiences.

Personal choices can lead to significant life transitions.

The process of change requires self-awareness.

It's important to not fear the questions that arise.

Recognizing the beauty in struggle can transform our perspective.

Both imposed and chosen transitions require us to engage with ourselves.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Embracing Personal Transformation

04:38 Stepping Out of Our Comfort Zones

07:31 Examining Beliefs

10:18 Fear and Graceful Transitions

13:51 The Continuous Journey of Personal Transformation

24:17 Embracing Challenges for Personal Growth

28:05 The Beauty of Transformation

33:04 Self-Awareness and Embracing Emotions

36:39 Showing Up and Giving Grace

Connect with Amilynne Carroll:

Website: www.amilynnecarroll.com

InstaGram: https://www.instagram.com/amilynnecarroll/

FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/SKCaterpillarChronicles/

Connect with Sue Willoughby:

Get my Free Midlife Makeover - https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/5daychallenge

⁠Web: ⁠https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/⁠⁠

Insta: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/⁠⁠

FB: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/⁠⁠

Break Free from Busy: How to Create More Quality Time in Your Day - With David Buck

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 03:01:00 -0400

In this episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby sits down with David Buck, a seasoned business development expert with over 35 years of experience. David, the founder of Kairos Management Solutions and author of The Time Optimized Life, shares powerful insights into the difference between time management and time optimization. Together, they dive into practical strategies like time blocking, minimizing distractions (hello, smartphone!), and how to transform busywork into meaningful productivity. David’s wisdom on balancing Kronos (measured time) with Kairos (quality time) offers a fresh perspective on creating more value in your daily life. Tune in to learn how you can gain control over your schedule, prioritize what matters, and ultimately lead a richer, more efficient life.

Takeaways

Being busy doesn't equate to being productive.
Time optimization focuses on value rather than just managing time.
Time blocking is a powerful tool for enhancing focus.
Minimizing distractions is crucial for maintaining productivity.
Work sprints can help maintain energy and focus.
It's important to create specific time blocks for tasks.
Understanding Kronos and Kairos time can shift your perspective on productivity.
Corporate environments may struggle more with time optimization than entrepreneurial settings.
Shifting from a Kronos mindset to a Kairos mindset can enhance productivity.
Focusing on high-value tasks can lead to greater efficiency.

Sound Bites

"We are constantly complaining that we don't have enough time."

"What is the difference between time management and time optimization?"

"Time blocking can help you focus better."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Time Optimization

05:39 Implementing Time Blocking

08:53 Starting Small and Adapting

10:40 Minimizing Distractions and Focusing on Priorities

12:40 Strategies for Managing Distractions

15:57 Work Sprints and Taking Breaks

19:38 Marrying Your Calendar and Tasks

21:59 Identifying Triggers and Avoiding Distractions

24:41 Understanding Your Optimal Productivity Zone

29:48 The Power of Kairos Time

37:30 Managing Distractions and Planning Time

41:40 The Importance of Patience in Time Optimization

Connect with David Buck

Website: https://infinitylifestyledesign.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/davetimebuck

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/infinitylifestyledave/

Book: https://infinitylifestyledesign.com/the-time-optimized-life-book/

Free Gift: Get Chapter 1 https://infinitylifestyledesign.com/get-chapter-1/

Connect with Sue Willoughby:

Get my Free Midlife Makeover - https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/5daychallenge

⁠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/

StanStore: https://stan.store/sue_willoughby

Keywords

time management, time optimization, productivity, time blocking, distractions, work sprints, Kronos, Kairos, efficiency, entrepreneurial mindset

Mystic Insights: Audrye Arbe on Intuition, Healing, and Vibrational Transformation

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 03:01:00 -0400

In this enlightening episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby welcomes mystic intuitive and clairvoyant healer Audrye Arbe. Broadcasting from her serene home in Costa Rica, Audrye shares her incredible journey of embracing her natural gifts from a young age, including her empathic abilities and metaphysical insights. Together, they dive deep into Audrye’s work as a clairvoyant, her experiences with intuitive healing, and her fascinating practice of painting frequency stones to elevate energy and promote well-being. Audrye also explores topics like genetic karmic patterning, raising personal vibration, and the power of heart-brain coherence in fostering peace and prosperity. Prepare for a heartfelt, soul-stirring conversation that inspires you to tune into your own intuition and uplift your frequency.

Takeaways

Audrey was born a mystic intuitive and embraced her gifts.
Intuition is a natural ability that everyone possesses.
Not everyone is open to growth and development.
Emotional sensitivity can be both a gift and a challenge.
Creating art can be a form of energy healing.
Frequency stones are designed to uplift and bring peace.
Genetic karmic patterning influences our beliefs and behaviors.
Healing can be done remotely and effectively.
Raising your vibration is essential for personal and collective wellness.
Self-care practices are crucial for maintaining a balanced life.

Sound Bites

"I was born a mystic intuitive."

"I always wanted to know why this, why that."

"I learned not everybody wants to really grow."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Audrey Arby

07:27 Empathy and Sensing the World

10:16 Trusting Intuition and Sticking Up for Yourself

13:53 Painting Frequency Stones for Beauty and Positive Energy

15:47 Programming Crystals and Creating Frequency Stones

17:04 Living in Peace, Beauty, and Wellness

19:24 Adapting to a New Culture

21:46 The Importance of Healing Work

28:28 Guided Breathing Exercise to Raise Your Vibration

Connect with Audrye Arbe

Website Link: https://www.AudryeNow.com

Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/audrye

Instagram Link: https://instagram.com/AudryeNow

Connect with Sue Willoughby:

Get my Free Midlife Makeover: https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/5daychallenge

Insta: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/⁠⁠

FB: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/⁠⁠

Autumn Reflections: Letting Go and Embracing What’s Next

Sun, 22 Sep 2024 16:54:17 -0400

In this special bonus episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby celebrates the fall equinox and her milestone 65th birthday with a heartfelt reflection on life, growth, and embracing the beauty of midlife. Sue shares her personal journey of self-discovery, transformation, and the joy of creating a life worth living. Tune in as she talks about the power of letting go, much like the vibrant autumn trees shedding their leaves, to make room for new beginnings. Whether you’re navigating your own midlife journey or just looking for a boost of inspiration, this episode offers wisdom, warmth, and an invitation to embrace where you are and where you’re headed next.

Get ready for some real talk, seasonal inspiration, and a special birthday celebration! Plus, Sue has an exciting free gift for listeners who join her email list.

Takeaways

This is a milestone birthday for me, turning 65.
I tend to celebrate milestone birthdays as achievements.
Midlife doesn't have to be seen as downhill; it can be a time of growth.
I feel like I still have a ton of things that I want to do.
The fall equinox symbolizes change and new beginnings.
I love the beauty of autumn and the changing colors.
Letting go is essential for personal growth and renewal.
I encourage listeners to reflect on their own life transformations.
Engaging with my audience is important to me.
Happy fall equinox and birthday week to me!

Connect with Sue Willoughby:

Subscribe and get my Free Midlife Makeover: https://willoughby-coaching.myflodesk.com/5daychallenge

⁠Web: ⁠https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/⁠⁠

Insta: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/⁠⁠

FB: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/⁠⁠

Keywords: milestone birthday, fall equinox, personal growth, life transitions, midlife coaching, Libra season, self-reflection, embracing change, seasonal transitions, life achievements

From Winemaker to World Changer: How Remy Drabkin is Redefining Impact

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 03:01:00 -0400

In this special episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby sits down with Remy Drabkin, a trailblazing queer winemaker, co-founder of Wine Country Pride, and mayor of McMinnville, Oregon. Remy is not just breaking barriers in the wine industry; she’s reshaping her community and beyond with innovative sustainability practices, including the development of a carbon-sequestering concrete that could revolutionize climate impact. Remy shares her journey of founding Remy Wines, creating the world’s first Queer Wine Fest, and her relentless pursuit of positive change through thoughtful leadership. From tackling DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) in a traditionally conservative industry to her mayoral ambitions to "recode" local governance for more inclusive outcomes, this conversation is a powerful reminder of what it means to lead with intention, resilience, and impact.

Tune in as I explore what drives Remy’s passion for community, sustainability, and justice, and learn how she balances an extraordinary life of public service and business leadership—all while staying true to her authentic self.

Takeaways

Unexpected encounters can lead to meaningful connections.
Locking away technology can cause anxiety for many.
Behavior plays a crucial role in how we adapt to change.
Disconnection from technology can be beneficial.
Chance meetings can lead to new opportunities.
The experience at the Ellen show was memorable and unique.
Understanding the impact of technology on our lives is essential.
Anxiety can stem from the inability to access our devices.
The importance of being present in the moment.
Meeting new people can change the course of our lives.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction: Remy Drabkin's Journey

05:48 Starting Remy Wines and Maintaining a Small Winery

07:09 Incubating Nonprofits and High Impact Events

11:31 Innovating the Wine Industry: Queer Wine Fest and Carbon Sequestering Concrete

14:51 Creating Lasting Change and Fixing Government Systems

20:01 Changing Housing Code for Better Outcomes

29:06 Challenges Faced as a Woman, Gay, and Perceived Age

30:48 Queer Wine Fest: Creating a Home and Network

32:34 Challenges from Within the Queer Community

35:10 Promoting Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in the Wine Industry

36:08 Remy Drabkin: A Leader in Urban Design and Government

44:14 Innovative Projects: Mixed-Use Redevelopment and Carbon Sequestering Concrete

Connect with Remy Drabkin

Website - https://www.remywines.com

Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/remywines

Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/remywines/

Connect with Sue Willoughby:

Insta: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/⁠⁠

FB: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/⁠⁠

Autumn Renewal Fall Retreat 2024

Eat Joyfully: Wisdom, Resilience, and Brownies for Breakfast with Lynne Bowman

Tue, 10 Sep 2024 03:01:00 -0400

In this episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby welcomes the irrepressible Lynne Bowman, author of the Amazon bestseller "Brownies for Breakfast," a cookbook for diabetics and the people who love them. At 78, Lynne is living proof that age is just a number, brimming with wisdom, wit, and stories that span her incredible life—from creative director roles in Silicon Valley to collaborating with TV legend Deirdre Hall, and even moonlighting as a wedding planner.

Sue and Lynne dive into a vibrant discussion about living authentically, the importance of creating community around the kitchen table, and breaking free from societal expectations. They explore how Lynne's philosophy of "eating joyfully" can lead to a healthier, more fulfilling life and why simplicity in food and life is often the best path forward. Lynne also shares her thoughts on unconventional education, societal shifts among younger generations, and her unique approach to resilience.

From mushroom soup spiced with bourbon to the power of gathering in shared spaces, this conversation is a delightful mix of humor, heart, and life lessons. Whether you’re looking for inspiration to embrace your creativity, revamp your relationship with food, or just enjoy a good story, this episode is sure to nourish your soul.

Takeaways

Genius soup is a versatile and flexible recipe that allows for creativity in adding ingredients.
The soup is made with a base of celery, carrots, and onions, which provide a delicious flavor.
Adding ingredients like spinach and arugula can enhance the taste and nutritional value of the soup.
The conversation highlights the love for the flavor of celery.

Sound Bites

"Another recipe in the book that people love and ask me about is called genius soup. Guess why?"
"Well, probably, but because it's genius. It's genius."
"Just you chop it all up, throw it in there, saute it."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

06:11 Nurturing Creativity and Finding Your Passion

16:22 The Changing Attitudes Towards Driving

20:01 The Joy of Cooking and the Power of Soup

25:17 Favorite Soup Recipes and Cooking Tips

30:32 Leaving a Positive Legacy and Making a Difference

32:25 Eating Well for Health and Well-being

41:34 Creating Physical Environments for Connection and Community

50:53 The Value of Small Homes and Trailer Parks in Fostering Community Connect with Lynne Bowman

Website ⁠http://lynnebowman.com⁠

Facebook ⁠https://facebook/lynneparmiterbowman⁠

Instagram ⁠http://instagram.com/lynneparmiterbowman

⁠Connect with Sue Willoughby:

⁠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/⁠

Autumn Renewal Fall Retreat 2024 - ⁠https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/events/p/autumn-renewal-transform-empower-and-embrace-your-freedom

The Unapologetic Introvert: Embracing Your Quiet Power with Brendalyn Carpenter Player

Tue, 03 Sep 2024 03:01:00 -0400

In this transformative episode, Sue Willoughby sits down with Brendalyn Carpenter Player, a retired Army civilian public affairs director and founder of Brendalyn Player Communications, to uncover the hidden strengths of introversion. Brendalyn, an unapologetic introvert and cerebral palsy warrior, shares her powerful journey from hiding in the shadows to embracing her quiet power. She reveals how her late discovery of her introvert superpower allowed her to thrive in high-visibility roles and transform her approach to leadership and self-acceptance. Dive into this heartfelt conversation as Brendalyn discusses the importance of self-awareness, self-acceptance, and how to harness introversion as a unique strength rather than a weakness. With practical strategies, inspirational insights, and a call to action, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to honor their quiet nature and step confidently into their authentic self. Whether you’re an introvert, extrovert, or somewhere in between, Brendalyn’s story will challenge you to rethink your own inner narrative and embrace the power that lies within.

Takeaways

Some people develop coping mechanisms to hide their insecurities and not draw attention to themselves physically.
There can be various reasons why someone may feel like they don't speak well or don't want to be present or seen.
Wearing a mask can make people feel like they need to perform in a lesser manner than what they actually have to offer.
It's important to create a safe and supportive environment where people feel comfortable being themselves and expressing their true potential.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Organic Conversation

04:23 Understanding and Embracing Introversion

06:22 Discovering Introvert Strengths

10:07 Challenges Faced by Introverts in Professional Environments

15:40 Creating Inclusive Environments for Introverts

20:22 Empowering Introverts through Self-Acceptance

25:50 Embracing Your Unique Qualities as an Introvert

31:14 Navigating Social Environments with Confidence

37:21 The Value of Introverts in Leadership

40:13 Recognizing and Supporting Introverted Individuals in Organizations

42:12 Harnessing Your Quiet Power for Extraordinary Impact

Connect with Brendalyn!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unapologeticintrovertspace/

Website: https://unapologeticintrovertspace.com/

Take the Introvert Quiz - Text INTROVERT to 931-202-9777

Watch for Brendalyn's New Book: "The Unapologetic Introvert: It's time to unlock your quiet power and thrive"

Connect with Sue!

FB: ⁠⁠https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/⁠⁠

Insta: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/⁠⁠

⁠Join Our Autumn Renewal Retreat!

Intuition, Healing, and Horsepower: Frida Karsberg’s Path to Purpose

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 03:01:00 -0400

In this captivating episode of A Life Worth Being, Sue Willoughby sits down with Frida Karsberg, a dynamic Equus coach, Reiki master, and former Swedish TV producer who now calls Los Angeles home. Frida shares her incredible journey from Stockholm to the sprawling city of LA, revealing the challenges she faced along the way, from adapting to a new culture to discovering her true calling in the world of equine-assisted coaching and healing. Together, Sue and Frida dive deep into the transformative power of intuition, the healing energy of Reiki, and the wisdom of horses, offering listeners a unique blend of practical insights and spiritual inspiration. Whether you're curious about Equus coaching or seeking ways to connect more deeply with your intuition, this episode is packed with wisdom, laughter, and the kind of honest conversation that makes you feel like you're chatting with old friends. Don't miss it!

Join Our Autumn Renewal Retreat! Takeaways:

Coaching horses can be a powerful tool for personal growth and self-reflection.
The horse's refusal to cooperate served as a wake-up call for Sue to work on herself.
Self-awareness is crucial for personal and professional development.
Challenging experiences can lead to valuable insights and growth.
Sue's story highlights the transformative power of self-reflection.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:01 Frida's Journey from Sweden to Los Angeles

07:58 The Power of Equus Coaching

15:45 Reiki: A Natural Flow of Energy

24:59 Trusting Your Intuition

29:46 Autumn Renewal Retreat

Keywords: coaching, horses, self-reflection, personal growth, self-awareness, professional development Connect With Frida karsberg

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fridakarsbergcoach/

Website: https://www.fridakarsberg.com/

Connect with Sue Willoughby:

⁠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/⁠

Fit & Fabulous After 50: Transform Your Health with Alicia Jones

Tue, 20 Aug 2024 03:01:00 -0400

In this invigorating episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby dives into the world of fitness and well-being with special guest Alicia Jones, a renowned fitness expert dedicated to helping women over 50 reclaim their health and vitality. From personal struggles to becoming a leader in her field, Alicia shares her journey and the transformative strategies that have helped countless women thrive in their golden years.

Tune in as they discuss the challenges of staying fit as we age, the importance of strength training, and why focusing on building lean muscle is crucial for longevity. Whether you're a fitness newbie or a seasoned athlete, Alicia’s insights on nutrition, exercise, and mindset will leave you feeling motivated and empowered to take control of your health journey.

Plus, find out how Sue, now 64, plans to embark on a 12-week fitness challenge under Alicia’s guidance—proving that it’s never too late to get fit and feel fabulous!

Join us for a conversation full of practical tips, real-life stories, and plenty of laughs as we explore how to live your best life at any age.

Listen now to get inspired, get moving, and make your health a priority!

Keywords

fitness, health, women over 50, motivation, strength training, high-intensity interval training, accountability, tailored approach, muscle mass, bone density, lean muscle mass, fueling the body, weight training, women over 50, bonking, nutrition, accountability, community, fitness program

Takeaways

Finding activities that motivate and spark joy is crucial for staying consistent with fitness goals.
Strength training and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) are beneficial for women over 50, improving muscle mass, bone density, and overall quality of life.
A tailored approach to fitness and nutrition is necessary, considering individual health, hormones, and lifestyle.
Accountability, whether through group classes or one-on-one coaching, can help maintain motivation and consistency in fitness routines. Maintaining lean muscle mass is crucial for strength and quality of life, especially for women over 50.
Proper nutrition, including sufficient calories and carbohydrates, is essential for sustaining muscle strength and energy during workouts.
Bonking, a state of low energy and strength, can be avoided by fueling the body adequately before and during exercise.
Weight training is highly beneficial for women over 50, improving strength, stamina, and core stability.
Accountability and community support play a significant role in achieving fitness goals.
Alicia offers a free masterclass and a 12-week program to help women over 50 improve their fitness.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Alicia Jones and her work with women over 50

04:49 Alicia's personal journey and the importance of finding motivation

10:28 Inspiration from Alicia's mother and grandmother

13:36 Finding motivation and accountability in fitness

17:41 The importance of strength training and HIIT for women over 50

20:59 Consistency and building lean muscle for long-term results

25:14 Activities that spark joy and sustain motivation

27:18 Maintaining Bone Health and the Role of DEXA Scans

36:17 The Value of Accountability and Community Support

Connect with Alicia Jones

FREE Masterclass - 3 Phase Food and Fitness Formula

Instagram

Facebook

Website

Connect with Sue Willoughby:

⁠https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/⁠

⁠https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/⁠

⁠https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/⁠

⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/⁠

The Power of Listening to Your Body: Alexa Budd on Root-Cause Wellness

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 11:22:20 -0400

In this heartfelt episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby sits down with Alexa Budd, a board-certified physician assistant and founder of Dragonfly Healing and Wellness. Alexa shares her transformative journey from losing her father unexpectedly to navigating her own health crises, which led her to question traditional medicine and explore holistic, root-cause approaches to healing.

Alexa's story is a powerful testament to resilience, intuition, and the body's incredible ability to heal when given the right environment. She discusses her unique approach to women's health, fertility, and autoimmune disorders, revealing how she integrates Western medical knowledge with bio-energetic practices to uncover and address the true origins of illness.

Join us as we dive deep into the importance of listening to your body, the signs that guide us, and the profound impact of slowing down to find joy and meaning in every moment. Whether you're struggling with your own health or seeking a more meaningful life, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration to keep seeking the answers you deserve.

Tune in to discover how healing can be a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, and why it's never too late to rewrite your health story.

Key Takeaways:

The journey from grief to growth
How to recognize and address the root causes of health issues
The power of integrating holistic practices with traditional medicine
Tips for creating an environment conducive to healing
The importance of slowing down and staying present in the moment

Special Offer: Mention this podcast episode and use the code "PODCAST" to receive 50% off your first consultation with Alexa Budd.

Connect with Alexa

https://www.dragonflyhealingandwellness.com/

https://www.instagram.com/buddalexa/

https://www.facebook.com/intuitivewellnesspa

Connect with Sue

https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

Holding On and Letting Go: A Midlife Transformation with Laurie James

Tue, 06 Aug 2024 03:01:00 -0400

Join us in this captivating episode of "A Life Worth Being," where host Sue Willoughby sits down with the remarkable Laurie James. Laurie, a mother of four, a divorcee, a recovering caregiver turned author, and a somatic relationship coach, shares her transformative journey from loneliness to belonging. Inspired by her youngest child leaving the nest, Laurie's podcast "Confessions of a Free Bird" follows her insightful memoir "Sandwiched: A Memoir of Holding On and Letting Go."

In this episode, Laurie opens up about the challenges of raising four teenage daughters while caring for her ailing parents and navigating a crumbling marriage. She discusses the profound impact of somatic healing and how it guided her to not only survive but thrive. Dive deep into the layers of Laurie's life as she explains the importance of connecting with our bodies, processing trauma, and finding joy in midlife.

Laurie and Sue explore the intricacies of somatic experiencing, the power of emotional healing, and practical ways to regulate the nervous system. Laurie's candid stories and expert insights provide valuable lessons for anyone looking to embrace discomfort and cultivate self-compassion.

Whether you're dealing with your own midlife transitions or simply seeking inspiration, this episode offers a heartfelt and empowering conversation about resilience, healing, and self-discovery. Tune in for an episode filled with wisdom, humor, and the transformative power of somatic healing.

Takeaways

Somatic healing can be a powerful tool for emotional healing.
Practicing equanimity allows one to be present in any emotional state.
Embracing discomfort is necessary for letting go and completing the healing process.

Sound Bites

"And that's why it's so powerful when you're doing like a somatic healing session"
"Equanimity is a beautiful thing and not many people can"
"Embracing that discomfort is another thing that I really work on"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Laurie James and her Journey

04:18 Exploring the 'Sandwich Generation'

06:14 The Struggle to Find Belonging

08:33 Balancing Responsibilities and Self-Care

12:22 The Impact of Stress on the Body

17:34 Understanding Somatic Healing

21:27 Connecting with the Body

24:15 Slowing Down and Mindfulness

26:25 The Impact of Past Trauma

30:34 Completing the Fight, Flight, or Freeze Response

33:29 The Connection Between Emotions and Physical Health

37:28 The Importance of Self-Compassion and Self-Care

Connect with Laurie James

Sandwiched: A Memoir of Holding On and Letting Go

https://www.laurieejames.com/

Confessions of a Freebird Podcast

Episode with Angela Shelton

FREE “Beginners Guide to Somatic Healing”

Connect with Sue Willoughby:

Website

Instagram ⁠

Facebook

LinkedIn⁠

Unleashing Creativity: Alicia Tormey on Art, Inspiration, and Overcoming Fear

Tue, 30 Jul 2024 03:01:00 -0400

In this inspiring episode of "A Life Worth Being," host Sue Willoughby welcomes the internationally acclaimed artist, arts educator, and creative mentor Alicia Tormey. Alicia shares her journey of over 35 years as a creative professional, specializing in the ancient and captivating art of encaustic painting. Discover how she transitioned from simply creating art to empowering others through teaching and mentorship.

Alicia opens up about the challenges and rewards of living a life dedicated to the arts, offering profound insights into the differences between inspiration and motivation. She emphasizes the importance of following one's curiosity and overcoming the fear of being a beginner, no matter the creative pursuit.

Listeners will be fascinated by Alicia’s explanation of encaustic painting—an art form that uses beeswax mixed with natural resin, creating durable and stunning works that have lasted thousands of years. Through vivid storytelling, Alicia reveals how this medium humbles even the most seasoned artists, keeping the creative process exciting and transformative.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling the urge to create but unsure where to start. Alicia's heartfelt advice to "start now" and her strategies for overcoming fear and self-doubt will resonate deeply with aspiring artists and creatives of all kinds.

Tune in to learn: • How to maintain inspiration and motivation in your creative journey. • The transformative power of art in personal and emotional healing.

Sound Bites "You're not really judging yourself yet. You're just doing and learning, which is exciting and awesome."

"Who do I think I am? Who am I kidding? I can't do this. I don't have any talent."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Overview

03:42 Exploring the Captivating World of Encaustic Painting

07:32 Overcoming Fear and Self-Doubt on the Artistic Journey

11:21 The Power of Inspiration and Motivation in Art

16:12 Embracing the Beginner's Mind in Creative Pursuits

18:06 Prioritizing Time for Artistic Expression

22:23 The Technical and Creative Appeal of Encaustic Painting

25:47 Art as a Transformative and Healing Medium

29:36 The Importance of Community and Support in the Artistic Process

Join us for a conversation that’s as enriching as it is encouraging, and discover how to unleash your inner artist today.

Connect with Alicia:

Connect with Sue:

Subscribe, Rate & Follow - It would mean a lot to me!

#Creativity #ArtInspiration #EncausticPainting #CreativeJourney #ALifeWorthBeing

Keywords: beginner, learning, challenges, self-judgment, discerning, self-doubt, comparison, quitting, Art, inspiration, creativity

Intuitive Living: Renee Spears’ Path to Spiritual Fulfillment and Success

Tue, 23 Jul 2024 03:01:00 -0400

In this enlightening episode of A Life Worth Being, Sue Willoughby welcomes the inspiring Renee Spears, a Spirit Guide Channeler, spiritual mentor, and host of the Abundology podcast. Renee shares her extraordinary journey from owning a successful mortgage company to embracing her calling as a Spirit Guide Channeler in the serene landscapes of Bozeman, Montana.

Join us as we dive deep into the world of intuition, exploring how Renee made a life-changing leap guided by her inner wisdom. Discover the significance of trusting your gut feelings, the transformative power of intuition in everyday decisions, and practical tips on how to cultivate and strengthen your intuitive abilities.

Sue and Renee discuss:

The connection between intuition and business success
How to recognize and trust your intuitive hits
The role of intuition in overcoming life’s challenges and making empowered decisions
Exercises to enhance your intuitive skills and build self-trust
The magic of Women’s Wisdom Circles and their impact on spiritual growth

Sound Bites

"Trusting your intuition is essential for making aligned decisions and living a fulfilling life."
"Trusting your intuition is a form of trusting yourself and your own wisdom."
"Regrets often stem from not trusting and following your intuition."
"I don't want to have any regrets."
"That was part of the path to use that to propel you forward."
"Should I eat these potato chips? No."

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Background
02:57 - Transition from Mortgage Company to Spirit Guide Channeling
07:43 - The Impact of Trusting Intuition
10:53 - Developing Trust in Intuition
15:23 - Understanding How Intuition Shows Up
22:48 - Avoiding Regrets by Trusting Intuition
23:41 - The Power of Intuition and Being Present
24:52 - Living Life Without Regrets
26:20 - Slowing Down and Listening to Our Intuition
26:50 - The Impact of Technology on Presence
27:51 - Morning Routine and Preparing for Intuitive Sessions
29:10 - Overcoming the Scarcity Mindset
30:21 - Women's Wisdom Circles for Spiritual Exploration

Whether you’re seeking clarity in your career, personal life, or spiritual path, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable advice to help you embrace your inner guidance and live a life aligned with your true self.

Tune in for a heartwarming conversation filled with wisdom, laughter, and inspiration.

Connect with Renee and enjoy an exclusive 25% discount off a 30-60 min session with Renee Spears using the code 'ABUNDANCE' at https://www.abundology.com/schedule

Other ways to connect with Renee!

https://www.facebook.com/reneespearsabundology
https://www.instagram.com/reneespearsabundology Connect with Sue Willoughby:

⁠https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/⁠

⁠https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/⁠

⁠https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/⁠

⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/⁠

Overcoming Obstacles: The Holmes’ Guide to Building a Meaningful Life

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 03:01:00 -0400

In this compelling episode of "A Life Worth Being," host Sue Willoughby welcomes back Britney and Ed Holmes, wellness and mindset coaches, and dear friends. You may remember them from Sue's very first episode, and now they're here to share their incredible journey of transformation.

Britney and Ed dive deep into their personal struggles with weight, addiction, and emotional eating, revealing how they moved from being stuck and overwhelmed to becoming high-performing, health-focused individuals. They share candid anecdotes about their past, the pivotal moments that sparked their change, and the rigorous process of self-improvement they embraced.

Listen as they discuss the significance of finding the right coach, the importance of community in their CrossFit gym, and the value of surrounding yourself with people who challenge you to grow. Brittany and Ed also explore how they transitioned from their roles in a church to launching their own coaching practice, Axios Coaching, which focuses on holistic health across physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual dimensions.

Discover the innovative methods they use in their coaching programs, including their "Mindbox" curriculum and the exciting new courses they're developing. Whether you're struggling with weight, stress, or simply feeling stuck, Britney and Ed offer invaluable insights and practical advice to help you create a meaningful, fulfilled life.

Tune in to be inspired by their journey and learn how you too can start your path towards transformation.

Keywords

coaching, emotional eating, addiction, mindset, support system, fitness, personal development, stress, high performers, burnout, stress, overwhelm, train your brain, consistency, worthiness, meaningful life, Mindbox curriculum, Axios Coaching, one-on-one coaching, speaking engagements

Takeaways

Surround yourself with supportive people who lift you up and challenge you to grow.
Changing your mindset and beliefs about yourself and the world is crucial for making lasting changes.
Creating space and replenishing yourself is essential for growth and avoiding burnout.
Stress and being stuck are mutually reinforcing, and addressing both is necessary for personal development.
Coaching can help individuals and teams thrive in high-demand lives by focusing on the four quadrants of whole health: physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual. Stress is a story that can be changed, and stressors are the events we have stories about.
Numbing behaviors, such as overeating or overworking, are ways to avoid processing negative emotions.
Setting goals based on who we need to be rather than what we need to do leads to sustainable growth.
Worthiness is a transformative mindset shift that allows us to invest in ourselves and make positive changes.
Creating consistency in our behaviors and training our brains can help us get off the hamster wheel of stress and overwhelm.
The Mindbox curriculum offered by Axios Coaching helps individuals and teams get unstuck and create a meaningful life.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Unpacking Their Journey

02:51 Emotional Eating and Addiction

09:12 The Power of Mindset and Wellness

13:56 The Role of Community in Transformation

21:57 The Connection Between Stress and Being Stuck

23:40 Creating Space for Recharge and Growth

26:24 Addressing the Root Causes of Numbing

29:19 Training Your Brain for Success

35:06 Living a Meaningful Life

Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts!

Connect With Britney and Ed:

Connect with Sue Willoughby and Willoughby Coaching:

⁠https://www.willoughbycoaching.com/⁠

⁠https://www.instagram.com/sue_willoughby/⁠

⁠https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/⁠

⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/⁠

Coffee With a Ghost: Unleashing Your Inner Author with Ghostwriter Susan Baracco

Tue, 09 Jul 2024 03:01:00 -0400

In this enlightening episode of A Life Worth Being, host Sue Willoughby welcomes the remarkable Susan Baracco, an accomplished ghostwriter and business coach. With a background as varied as owning a liquor store and helping women in business, Susan has a wealth of experience that she brings to the art of storytelling. Together, they delve into the transformative power of writing, particularly for women over 40 who have rich, multifaceted life stories to share.

Susan shares her journey from business coaching to ghostwriting, offering invaluable insights into the myths and realities of writing a book. They explore the emotional depths required to craft a compelling memoir, the importance of professional editing, and the evolving landscape of publishing. Whether you're a budding writer or someone with a story yearning to be told, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration.

Join Sue and Susan as they discuss the importance of authenticity in writing, how to navigate the challenges of publishing, and the therapeutic benefits of putting your life experiences into words. If you've ever thought about writing a book or are simply curious about the process, this episode is a must-listen. Don't miss out on Susan's upcoming masterclass on the book-writing journey, designed to guide first-time authors through every stage of creating their masterpiece.

Keywords

writing a book, personal experiences, sharing stories, emotional experience, professional writer, uniqueness, overcoming challenges, transformation

Takeaways

Writing a book is often driven by the need to share personal experiences.
Sharing stories can be a moving and emotional experience for both the storyteller and the listener.
A professional writer can help clients express their unique experiences in writing.
Uniqueness in writing comes from personal experiences, overcoming challenges, and transformation.

Key Topics:

The journey from business coach to ghostwriter
Myths about writing and publishing
The role of professional editing
The therapeutic power of storytelling
How to begin your own book-writing journey

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Susan Baracco, a Ghostwriter

04:02 Susan's Journey from Business Coach to Ghostwriter

07:03 Writing a Book to Share Experiences and Help Others

11:06 Working with Women in Business and Mid-Life

16:25 Demystifying the Process of Writing a Book

23:30 The Value of Professional Editing

25:36 The Importance of Vulnerability and Personal Experience

30:01 Teaching from the Scar, Not the Wound

33:18 Creating a Unique and Readable Book

37:55 The Power of Personal Experience

39:47 The Emotional Involvement of a Ghostwriter

43:10 Discovery Call and Finding the Right Fit

Links To Susan Baracco:

Tune in and get inspired to awaken a life worth being by sharing your unique story with the world. Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe for more inspirational episodes!

Connect with Sue Willoughby:

https://www.facebook.com/willoughbycoaching/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/

Age is Just a Number: Helena Rogers’ Take on Art, Music, and Life

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 03:01:00 -0400

Join host Sue Willoughby as she sits down with the extraordinary Helena Rogers, a true Renaissance woman, in this inspiring episode of A Life Worth Being. Helena is a serial entrepreneur, musician, self-taught artist, and all-around badass who has lived a life filled with creativity, resilience, and relentless pursuit of passions.

In this episode, Helena shares her journey from co-founding the iconic Ruboto Records in the '70s to leading the legendary band Student Nurse. Discover how she redefined her career in tech in her 50s and reinvented herself as an artist in her 70s. Helena's story is a testament to the power of pursuing your passions at any age.

Learn about the Japanese concept of Ikigai, Helena's reason for getting out of bed in the morning, and how it has fueled her diverse and vibrant life. Whether it's painting, playing music, or embracing new technologies, Helena’s approach to life is all about going big or going home.

Tune in for a lively conversation filled with anecdotes, life lessons, and the kind of wisdom that only comes from a life well-lived. This episode is sure to inspire you to chase your own dreams and paint your way out of any corner.

🎧 Listen now and be inspired by Helena Rogers' incredible journey on A Life Worth Being!

Takeaways

Don't be afraid to pursue new interests and passions, regardless of your age.
Embrace the opportunity to learn and try new things.
Go big or go home - don't be afraid to take risks and push yourself creatively.
Surround yourself with a supportive community that encourages and inspires you.

Sound Bites

"I can paint my way out of any corner to some degree of satisfaction."

"If there's something that interests you, why not pursue it? Go big or go home."

"Don't be afraid to pursue new interests and passions, regardless of your age."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Music

01:34 Helena's Entrepreneurial Journey

06:21 Helena's Genre and Style of Music

08:17 Transitioning to a Tech Career

10:41 Helena's Journey into Painting

13:00 Helena's Artistic Process

20:08 Student Nurse's Reunion After 38 Years

21:31 Helena's Role in the Band

23:26 Promoting Student Nurse and Helena's Artwork

25:20 Age is Just a Number: Helena's Inspiring Story

28:08 Conclusion and Future Plans

Contact:

Helena Rogers - Facebook / Instagram

Student Nurse - https://www.studentnurseband.com/

https://studentnurse.bandcamp.com/

Contact Sue:

Echoes of Strength: A Tribute to My Mom’s Journey

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 03:01:00 -0400

Welcome to the debut episode of "A Life Worth Being"! I’m your host, Sue Willoughby, and I am overjoyed to have you join me as we embark on this journey of self-discovery, growth, and transformation. In this very special first episode, I honor my mother on what would have been her 92nd birthday.

Join me and my dear friends and creative partners, Britney and Ed Holmes, as we explore the remarkable and multifaceted story of my mom. She was a woman of incredible talent and humor, who also faced significant challenges with addiction and trauma. Through this heartfelt tribute, we delve into the complexities of our relationship and the profound impact she had on my life.

We’ll discuss themes of resilience, love, and the importance of embracing our true selves, even in the face of adversity. My mom’s journey, filled with both joy and struggle, has deeply influenced my path as a transformational life coach, and I’m excited to share these insights with you.

Whether you’re seeking inspiration, healing, or simply a compelling story, this episode offers a touching dedication to the woman who shaped my world. Tune in to discover the echoes of strength that resonate through my life and work. Don’t forget to subscribe to "A Life Worth Being" to ensure you never miss an episode. Thank you for being here, and let’s embark on this transformative journey together!

Connect with Sue: