Her Comeback Podcast: Bonus Episode Notes

Episode Title: My Story - 5 Transformations That Changed Everything

Host: Michelle Thompson; [email protected]

https://hercomebackpodcast.com/

Episode Overview

In this deeply personal episode, Michelle shares her own transformation journey from hitting rock bottom at 37 to living her best life at 54. She reveals five pivotal transformations that reshaped her life and offers inspiration for women over 50 who feel stuck or believe their best days are behind them.

The 5 Transformations

Foundational: From Rock Bottom to Solid Foundation (Age 37) Michelle opens up about her struggle with alcohol and how her lowest point became the foundation for rebuilding her life. Key insight: Your rock bottom isn't your end point—it's your starting point.

1. Taking Action Despite Fear (Age 47) As a single mom working full time, Michelle pursued her MBA—attending classes two nights a week for two years. This proved she could do hard things and opened doors she never imagined.

2. Following Your Heart, Not Your Fears (Age 50) During the 2020 pandemic, Michelle made a bold move to Southwest Florida without knowing how it would all work out. She trusted her intuition and built her wings on the way down. Today, she wakes up grateful every day in her paradise.

3. Rewriting the Story of What's Possible (Age 51) After her doctor warned about health risks, Michelle confronted her limiting beliefs about weight loss after 50. She lost 50 pounds and reached a size four—something she'd convinced herself was impossible. The lesson: The biggest barriers aren't age or circumstances, but the limiting beliefs we accept as truth.

4. Discovering Your Body's Amazing Potential (Age 53) Facing work stress, Michelle discovered group fitness training. Within 15 months, she went from couch potato to completing a grueling competition (5K tread, 2000m row, 300 reps) in under an hour. Proof that age is just information, not a limitation.

5. Choosing Courage Over Comfort (Present Day) Michelle's most challenging transformation: leaving corporate security to build her own coaching business. She refused to let others control her potential and took a bet on herself.

Questions for Your Own Transformation

1. What rock bottom moment can become your launching pad?
2. What story about what's possible at your age needs to be rewritten?
3. If you couldn't fail and had unlimited resources, what would you do in the next 90 days?

Connect With Michelle

• Website: HerComebackPodcast.com
• Free Gift: Five Powerful Shifts to Reclaim Your Life

Your comeback story is waiting to be written. The question isn't "Can I transform my life?" It's "Are you ready?"

Episode: Finding Your Power Through Self-Love with Natasha McCrea

Guest: Natasha McCrea, Founder of Love CEO Institute

Natasha McCrea is a coach, speaker, actress, and author from Los Angeles who describes herself as "a creative lover of life." After being married and divorced twice by age 30, she discovered she was a love addict and embarked on a transformative therapy journey that changed everything.

Key Topics Discussed

From Love Addiction to Love Intelligence

• Natasha's evolution from love addict to founder of Love CEO Institute
• Her one-woman show became unexpected group therapy, inspiring her coaching career
• The concept of "Love Intelligence" - treating yourself with the same importance as business commitments

Transformation Has No Age Limit

• At 50, Natasha launched a whiskey brand (Jackson McCrae) and got accepted into Techstars accelerator
• Had to completely redefine her self-care blueprint for a masculine-energy business environment
• Now available in Total Wine California stores and 46 states online

Practical Self-Care Strategies

1. The 2-Hour Block: Schedule two hours for absolutely nothing - just being, not doing
2. Detox from Yes: Take one week to practice saying "no" without explanation
3. Joy Brainstorm: Set a timer and list everything that brings you joy (even if you have to remember childhood)

The Cup and Saucer Philosophy

"Fill your cup until it overflows. Everyone else gets what's in the saucer - not from your cup." Your family and friends deserve the overflow of a fulfilled you, not the dregs of depletion.

Powerful Insights

• "You are the blueprint of how people treat you"
• Self-care blueprints must evolve as life changes - what worked six years ago may not work today
• We're built to regenerate - it's in our DNA to continue growing and evolving
• Fear itself is the real enemy, not failure

Connect with Natasha

Instagram: @natashamccrae Website: natashamacrae.com Free self-care rituals available via DM

This episode reminds us that it's never too late to recreate your life. Whether you're navigating menopause, starting a new business, or simply rediscovering who you are - transformation is always possible.

Episode Title: Finding Healing Through Holistic Health and Recovery with Christina Nylese

Episode Notes: In this empowering episode of Her Comeback: Transforming Your Life After 50, Coach Michelle Thompson welcomes Christina Nylese, a Holistic Health Coach and Mindfulness Teacher who brings 14 years of sobriety and a wealth of experience in recovery and wellness. Christina shares her inspiring journey from New Jersey to Florida, weaving in personal transformation, professional growth, and her passion for helping others reclaim their lives.

Together, Michelle and Christina dive into:

• The role of mindfulness and holistic practices in healing and recovery
• Christina’s personal journey through sobriety and what she’s learned along the way
• Why women over 50 often face unique challenges in transformation—and how to overcome them
• Practical strategies for creating balance, self-awareness, and resilience in everyday life

Christina’s story is a reminder that it’s never too late to rewrite your narrative, embrace wholeness, and live in alignment with your values. Whether you’re navigating recovery, facing a transition, or simply ready for a fresh start, this episode will inspire you to step into your own comeback story.

✨ Your best life isn’t behind you—it’s waiting for you now.

Connect with Christina Nylese

Website, Instagram: @christinanylese, or email Christina@selfhealingessentials.com

Connect with Coach Michelle

• Instagram: @empoweringyoulifestrategies
• Website: Women Empowerment Podcast | Life After 50
• Complimentary Coaching Session: [link to sign up]

Host: Coach Michelle Thompson Guest: Dr. Michele Pelletiere, Chiropractor

Guest Background

Dr. Michele Pelletiere has been practicing chiropractic care for 25 years, specializing in NetworkSpinal™ Analysis. Originally from Minnesota, she moved to Southwest Florida in 1997 after graduating from chiropractic school. Her journey began when experiencing back issues while working as a cognitive rehabilitation specialist in neuropsychology.

The Network Spinal Approach

• Beyond Traditional Chiropractic: Moving from temporary "band-aid" solutions to lasting transformation
• Mind-Body Connection: Addressing the nervous system's role in physical, emotional, and chemical responses
• Innate Intelligence: Empowering the body's natural healing capabilities
• Fight or Flight vs. Optimization: Helping patients move from reactive to responsive states

Real Client Success Stories

1. Physical Transformation: Client involved in car accident who self-regulated tension using techniques learned in sessions
2. Life Transition Support: Woman in her late 40s rediscovered her passion and energy to make significant life changes

Nervous System Optimization

• Computer Analogy: Upgrading from "Windows 10 to Windows 11" - creating bandwidth for better life experiences
• Neuroplasticity Enhancement: Developing greater adaptability to life changes
• Automatic Responses: Training the brain to handle stress situations more effectively

Treatment Process

• Comprehensive evaluation connecting spine position to life circumstances
• Physical contacts combined with awareness building
• Addressing stored tensions and traumas in the body
• Creating space for emotional processing and release

Benefits for Women Over 50

• Managing hormonal changes and life transitions
• Increasing energy and reducing fatigue
• Improving decision-making capabilities
• Enhancing relationships and communication
• Building resilience for major life changes

Special Offers

• 50% off first exam for podcast listeners (mention this episode)
• Regular promotions throughout the year

Contact Information

• Phone: 239-949-1222
• Website: backtowellbeing.com
• Email: Available on website

Upcoming Event

Women in Business Networking Event

• Date: Tuesday, October 7th, 5-7 PM
• Location: BCN Paella (near Dr. Michele's office)
• Focus: Collaboration, networking, and community building for women entrepreneurs
• Features: Tapas, networking opportunities, business presentations

Key Takeaways

NetworkSpinal™ Analysis offers a unique approach to chiropractic care that goes beyond physical adjustments to address the whole person. By optimizing the nervous system, patients can experience profound transformations in their physical health, emotional well-being, and life circumstances. This approach is particularly beneficial for women navigating the changes that come with life after 50.

Her Comeback Podcast Notes with Jennifer Anderson

Guest: Jennifer Anderson, MCC (Master Certified Coach) Show: Her Comeback: Transforming Your Life After 50 Host: Michelle Thompson https://hercomebackpodcast.com/

About Jennifer Anderson

• Career change expert and life coach since 1998
• Lives near Portland, Oregon with her family
• Author of "Plant Yourself Where You Will Bloom: How to Turn What Makes You Unique into a Meaningful and Lucrative Career"
• Offers intuitive readings and sounding board sessions
• Master Certified Coach with the International Coaching Federation

Key Themes Discussed

The Price of Staying Too Long

• Jennifer stayed in marriage 27 years and jobs out of misplaced loyalty
• When we ignore signs that something isn't working, endings often become abrupt and dramatic
• Learning to recognize when it's time to invite change rather than wait for crisis

Listening to Your Inner Voice

• Intuition starts as a "tap on the shoulder" then gets louder if ignored
• The moment of clarity feels like an "inner click" - like a combination lock opening
• Daily practice of checking in: "What's going on here? What do I need to do differently?"

From Reaction to Response

• Shift from reacting to circumstances to making conscious choices
• "You can't control what happens to you, but you can be in charge of yourself and your reaction"
• Growth means some relationships may have "expiration dates"

Action Steps for Change

1. Go Internal First: Use spiritual practices and intuition to understand what needs to change
2. Seek External Support: Find communities of like-minded people working on growth
3. Consider Professional Coaching: Neutral support that believes in your ability to choose your path

Common Thread Among Women

Confidence is the #1 issue Jennifer sees with female clients

• "If something is tugging at your heart, you're meant to do it and capable of doing it"
• Focus on small, consistent steps rather than dramatic overhauls
• Look for signs that things are working and keep going

Practical Wisdom

• Small steps really do add up over time
• Growth isn't linear - expect ups and downs
• Resilience comes from knowing you can "get back up and take one more step"
• Transformation happens one small shift at a time

New Offering: Intuitive Sounding Board Sessions

Jennifer now offers sessions that complement traditional coaching, helping clients gain clarity on questions or ideas through intuitive guidance and careful listening to verbal and non-verbal cues.

Contact: [email protected]

Her Comeback: Getting to the Yes with Kimberly Dye

https://hercomebackpodcast.com/

Guest Bio: Kimberly Dye - VP of Advancement at David Lawrence Centers, Naples, FL. Two-time cancer survivor living with MS, adoptive mom at 47, and author of "Getting to the Yes" series. At 57, she says her life has just begun.

Key Story Points

• Health Journey: Two cancer diagnoses (one 3 days before wedding) + multiple sclerosis
• Unexpected Motherhood: Adopted step-granddaughter at age 3 when Kim was in late 40s
• Professional Mission: Leading $160M "Hope for Collier" initiative addressing youth mental health crisis. See https://davidlawrencecenters.org/dlc-launches-hope-for-collier-building-stronger-minds-together-initiative-to-address-mental-health-crisis/

The "Getting to the Yes" Philosophy

Kim's approach to overcoming challenges:

1. Identify the "No's" - Understand each barrier or objection
2. Create Strategy Over Emotion - "Breathe through it, put a strategy together, refocus"
3. Peel the Onion - Remove obstacles systematically until only "yes" remains
4. Honor Small Yeses - Celebrate progress along the way

Powerful Quotes

"Any day on this side of the grass is a good day."

"There is a route and a way to overcome whatever it is by getting to a yes that works for you... maybe it's a whole series of little yeses on the way to the big yes."

"We have to go through a lot before we really know who we are."

Actionable Takeaways

• Plan vs. React: Remove emotion from crisis by creating concrete strategies
• Find Your "Fire Keepers": Surround yourself with people who see possibilities when you can't
• Eliminate "Yeah Buts": Focus on what's possible rather than excuses
• Embrace the Unexpected: Challenges often prepare us for unimaginable opportunities

Kim's Books

"Getting to the Yes" series - short, actionable guides (50-120 pages):

• Fundraising basics
• Campaign building
• Overcoming fear
• Coming 2026: Empowerment book for women

Available: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, GettingToTheYes.org

Connect

• Website: GettingToTheYes.org
• Work: DavidLawrenceCenters.org

Episode Theme: How life's greatest challenges become the foundation for transformation, especially for women discovering their power after 50.

From Nebraska to Naples: A Journey of Reinvention

Guest: Cher Canada - Retail Executive Turned Entrepreneur & Author

Episode Overview

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Cher Canada, who transformed from a small-town Nebraska girl into a retail powerhouse, leading brands like Chico's to unprecedented success. Now 65, she's living her "best life" as an entrepreneur, author, and advocate for women's empowerment.

Key Career Highlights

• Vice President at Wet Seal at age 30, earning $150,000 (35 years ago)
• 23 years at Chico's - overseeing 2,200 stores and $1.9 billion in revenue
• Historic achievement: 13.5 consecutive years of double-digit comp increases
• 22,000 employees under her leadership across multiple brands

The Nebraska to Miami Leap: At 18, Cher boldly drove from rural Nebraska to Miami for college, never looking back. "I can't believe I did it," she reflects on this life-changing decision.

Personal Transformation

After retiring from her high-powered career, Cher faced a difficult period that included struggles with alcohol. She courageously addressed this challenge and has been sober for over six years, finding strength through AA meetings and faith.

"I went from working 80 hours a week and being on a plane every Tuesday to sitting around playing tennis once a day. I had lost my purpose and I was bored."

Current Ventures

• She Can Love Boutique - Unique concept combining athletic wear and ready-to-wear
• Upcoming Book: "The Mirror's Been Lying To You" (December 2024)
• Advocacy Work: Supporting human trafficking survivors through Paths of Freedom
• She Can Club: Initiative to help homeless women in Naples

Key Takeaways

• Find Your Passion: "Find what gets you jazzed, what gives you goosebumps"
• It's Never Too Late: Started playing tennis at 57, opened her boutique in retirement
• Give Back: "The giving back part feeds my soul"
• Stay Active: Physical activity is crucial for mental health
• Confidence is Key: "Confidence is the single most beautiful thing a woman can wear"

Life Philosophy

"Make tripping part of your dance. Don't blame the stone - learn from it and celebrate your mistakes so others don't have to make them."

At 65, Cher embodies the message that retirement can be a beginning, not an ending. Her story demonstrates how challenges can become catalysts for growth and how finding purpose through service can create the most fulfilling chapter of life.

Connect with Sher: Instagram & Facebook: @SherCanada

Visit: SheCanLove Boutique, Naples, FL

Connect with Michelle: https://hercomebackpodcast.com/

Patti Brown - From Fear to Freedom

Got Sober at 40 - Life-changing foundation that enabled all future transformations

Relocated for Mental Health - Moved alone from Pennsylvania to Florida to escape seasonal depression. Packed only dishes, card table, and air mattress while husband stayed to sell house.

Health Crisis Catalyst - 2023 stage 3 renal cell carcinoma diagnosis sparked complete lifestyle overhaul. Lost 35 pounds through diet, exercise, and yoga practice.

Conquered Fear-Based Living - Transformed from paralyzed by fear to embracing adventure. Now travels extensively (Hawaii, Italy, New Mexico) and lives from love instead of fear.

"The Quiet Voice" Book

Available: Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Apple Books

Stories of how listening to inner wisdom guided life changes. Originated from rehab counselor's advice 26+ years ago about trusting the "quiet voice" that gets louder with sobriety.

Perfect for: People in recovery, those seeking spiritual growth, anyone needing courage for life changes, readers wanting hope during difficult times.

Core Message: "No matter what happens in our life, there's always hope, and once we get to the other side of it, it's way better than what we ever thought it would be."

Current Life

Nature-centered living with beach walks, turtle nest monitoring, and grounding practices. Strong marriage with adventure-filled travels planned.

Key Insights

• "Fear kind of paralyzes you" - choose love over fear
• Multiple transformations possible at any age
• Listen to your inner wisdom/gut instincts
• Support systems are essential (12-step programs, life coaching)
• "Really, the book is about hope. It's about change."

Patti's journey from addiction and fear to freedom and purpose proves transformation is always possible.

Contact: Instagram @pattibears | [email protected]

Women Empowerment Podcast | Life After 50

Tracy Busch Pate is a mother of four daughters (all getting married by February!), associate publisher of American Chiropractor magazine, realtor, and host of "The Being Tracy Show" podcast on YouTube. Originally from Indiana, Tracy has lived an adventurous life across multiple states and countries.

Key Life Moments Discussed

• Devastating Car Accident at 20: Overturned car threw her 75 feet, left her in a coma for 5 days, temporarily paralyzed on right side with memory loss
• International Living: Spent 10 years in Panama with her family seeking an international lifestyle for her children
• Multiple Relocations in Her 50s: South Beach (5 years), Coral Gables (2 years), Boca (brief), Palm Beach, before returning to Naples, Florida

Transformational Insights

"Change is Growth" - Tracy's father's wisdom that became her life philosophy

Key Mindset Shift: Realizing adversity wasn't happening TO her, but FOR her. She learned to ask: "What am I supposed to be learning from this?"

The Miami Awakening: After 5-6 major challenges in 6 months, Tracy finally surrendered her rigid plans and asked God for direction - leading to her successful move to Boca

Tracy's Message to Women Over 50

• You are not broken - Your story matters and can help others
• Feel the pain, but don't wallow in it - Use pain as fuel for growth
• You are enough - Everyone deserves to be seen and heard
• Share your story - The world needs what you have to offer

What's Next for Tracy

• Writing her first book
• Expanding to speaking engagements
• Continuing to help others feel seen and heard through her podcast

Tracy exemplifies how we can recreate our lives at any age, turning every challenge into an opportunity for growth and using our experiences to help others on their journey.

Be a Pineapple Person: Rising Above Disruption Guest: Annie Meehan, CSP

• The Pineapple Principle: Stand up straight, wear a crown, be sweet inside - transforming a poem into a principle for confidence and kindness
• Being the Exception: Rewriting limiting stories, especially for women in male-dominated spaces
• Managing Disruption: Finding gratitude and generosity in life's challenges
• Career Advancement: Practical tips for speaking up, seeking mentors, and putting yourself forward
• Fighting Imposter Syndrome: The importance of elevating other women and quoting female voices

Key Takeaways

"I deserve to be seen. I deserve to be heard. I am not the worst thing that ever happened to the world."

• Find One Good Friend: You need an ally who tells you the truth and supports your growth
• Apply Before You're Ready: Men apply with 20-50% qualifications; women wait for 80%+ - change this!
• Focus on Gratitude + Generosity: Be grateful for what you have, then ask how you can serve others
• Elevate Other Women: Recommend female speakers, authors, and leaders to combat imposter syndrome
• Dream at Any Age: For women 50+, give yourself grace, dream big, and remember your extraordinary wisdom

Connect with Annie: Visit anniemeehan.com for videos, books, and daily encouragement