Midlife Strategies for Badass Women

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
⁠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
divorce, decision-making, clarity, relationships, emotional intelligence, personal development, women's empowerment, indecision, mental health, coaching

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/
Book:
Conversations of Consequence: Lessons from the Still-Small Voice
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

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

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
⁠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/

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/⁠⁠
LI: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/suewilloughby/
Keywords: milestone birthday, fall equinox, personal growth, life transitions, midlife coaching, Libra season, self-reflection, embracing change, seasonal transitions, life achievements

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:
⁠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

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

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!
⁠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/