The hidden mental health symptoms of perimenopause, decades of self-blame, and finally finding healing at 75.  What if your hardest season became the beginning of your next chapter?  For 25 years, Carol Ann believed she simply didn’t handle one of the hardest times of her life well enough...
In this inspiring episode of Her Health Code, we sit down with Caryl Ann—author, recipe creator, and blogger—who proves it’s never too late to reinvent yourself. After facing the challenges of bankruptcy and unknowingly navigating menopause, Caryl Ann rebuilt her life from the ground up, turning her passion for food and storytelling into a thriving brand and a renewed sense of purpose.

We dive into a powerful Her Next Chapter™ journey, how she found resilience in midlife, and the mindset shifts that helped her move from survival to creativity and success. If you’re feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or wondering what’s next in this stage of life, this conversation will leave you feeling hopeful, motivated, and ready to rewrite your own story.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

• How to rebuild after financial and personal setbacks
• The hidden opportunities that come with menopause and midlife
• Why it’s never too late to start something new
• Practical inspiration for creating your own Her Next Chapter™

Tune in and start decoding what your next chapter could look like.

Carol Ann Kates, books, recipes, and a free weekly newsletter!
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Let's build community. We would love to connect with you:

Michele
Loving Your Wellness
Michele Peacox (@lovingyourwellness) • Instagram photos and videos

Jess
The Live Lightly Podcast
Instagram @livelightlybyjessica

Before we say goodbye, just a quick disclaimer.
The content shared on this podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. We are health coaches, not medical professionals, and the information shared here should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for professional medical care.

Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, lifestyle, supplements, or wellness practices, especially if you have a medical condition, are pregnant or nursing, or are taking medications. Never disregard or delay seeking professional medical advice because of something you heard on this podcast.

By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own health decisions and outcomes.

Heart palpitations can feel scary—especially when they seem to come out of nowhere. In this episode of Her Health Code, we decode the connection between heart palpitations and perimenopause, and why this common midlife symptom is often overlooked or misunderstood.

Jess & Michele share how hormonal shifts during perimenopause and menopause can impact the nervous system and cardiovascular responses, leading to sensations like a racing or pounding heart. They also talk about why many women don’t realize this can be related to midlife hormone changes, and how that lack of awareness can create unnecessary fear or confusion.

This episode is designed to bring awareness to what’s happening in the body, help you feel less alone in the experience, and give you a starting point for understanding and navigating heart palpitations in midlife with more confidence.

What heart palpitations can feel like during perimenopause and menopause
 • Why hormonal changes can trigger heart-related symptoms in midlife
 • The connection between hormones, the nervous system, and heart rhythm
 • Why this symptom is often overlooked or misattributed
 • How stress and lifestyle factors may play a role
 • When to pay closer attention and advocate for your health

🔔 Subscribe to Her Health Code for more tips on midlife health, hormones, nutrition, and thriving in this stage of life.

Her Health Code — Decoding what your body is saying in midlife so you can stop guessing and start healing. 💛

Connect with us:

Michele
Loving Your Wellness
Michele Peacox (@lovingyourwellness) • Instagram photos and videos

Jess
The Live Lightly Podcast
Instagram @livelightlybyjessica

Before we say goodbye, just a quick disclaimer.
The content shared on this podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. We are health coaches, not medical professionals, and the information shared here should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for professional medical care.

Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, lifestyle, supplements, or wellness practices, especially if you have a medical condition, are pregnant or nursing, or are taking medications. Never disregard or delay seeking professional medical advice because of something you heard on this podcast.

By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own health decisions and outcomes.

Struggling to get a good night’s sleep in midlife? You’re not alone. Hormonal changes, stress, and lifestyle factors can all make falling asleep—and staying asleep—more challenging after 40. In this episode of Her Health Code, we share practical tips and strategies to help women over 40 improve their sleep naturally and feel more rested.

Jess and Michele discuss why sleep often changes in perimenopause and menopause, how hormones impact your rest, and simple lifestyle adjustments that can make a big difference. Whether it’s reducing night sweats, improving bedtime routines, or supporting your hormones, this episode will give you actionable advice to finally get the rest your body needs.

✨ In this episode, you’ll learn:
 • Why sleep often gets worse in midlife
 • How hormonal changes affect your sleep cycles
 • Tips to fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer
 • Lifestyle and nutrition habits that support better sleep
 • Simple strategies to reduce nighttime awakenings and fatigue

🔔 Subscribe to Her Health Code for more tips on midlife health, hormones, nutrition, and thriving in this stage of life.

Her Health Code — Decoding what your body is saying in midlife so you can stop guessing and start healing. 💛

Connect with us:

Michele
Loving Your Wellness
Michele Peacox (@lovingyourwellness) • Instagram photos and videos

Jess
The Live Lightly Podcast
Instagram @livelightlybyjessica

Before we say goodbye, just a quick disclaimer.
The content shared on this podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. We are health coaches, not medical professionals, and the information shared here should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for professional medical care.

Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, lifestyle, supplements, or wellness practices, especially if you have a medical condition, are pregnant or nursing, or are taking medications. Never disregard or delay seeking professional medical advice because of something you heard on this podcast.

By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own health decisions and outcomes.

Looking for healthy, easy-to-make meals this April? In this episode of Her Health Code, we share our April Meal of the Month, packed with recipes designed to support midlife health, hormone balance, and energy for women over 40.

Jess and Michele walk you through simple, seasonal meal ideas that are delicious, nutritious, and realistic for busy lifestyles. From breakfast to dinner, you’ll discover how to enjoy foods that fuel your body, support your hormones, and make healthy eating enjoyable—not stressful.

✨ In this episode, you’ll learn:
 • Easy, healthy recipes perfect for April
 • How to make midlife-friendly meals that support energy and hormone balance
 • Tips for meal prep that save time and reduce stress
 • Seasonal ingredients that are good for your health and wallet
 • How to build a balanced plate that satisfies your cravings and nourishes your body

Whether you’re looking for new recipes, inspiration for meal prep, or ways to eat healthier in midlife, this episode gives you practical, actionable tips to make April a month of delicious, nourishing meals.

💬 Comment below: Which April recipe are you most excited to try?

🔔 Subscribe to Her Health Code for more tips on midlife nutrition, hormone-friendly meals, and thriving in your 40s and 50s.

Her Health Code — Decoding what your body is saying in midlife so you can stop guessing and start healing. 💛

Connect with us:

Michele
Loving Your Wellness
Michele Peacox (@lovingyourwellness) • Instagram photos and videos

Jess
The Live Lightly Podcast
Live Lightly (@livelightly_) • Instagram photos and videos

Before we say goodbye, just a quick disclaimer.
The content shared on this podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. We are health coaches, not medical professionals, and the information shared here should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for professional medical care.

Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, lifestyle, supplements, or wellness practices, especially if you have a medical condition, are pregnant or nursing, or are taking medications. Never disregard or delay seeking professional medical advice because of something you heard on this podcast.

By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own health decisions and outcomes.

Using the estradiol patch or thinking about starting hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in midlife? This is an important conversation every woman needs to hear. In this episode of Her Health Code, we share a PSA on what you need to know before and while using the estradiol patch so you can make informed, confident decisions about your health.

Hormone therapy can be a powerful tool during perimenopause and menopause—but it’s not one-size-fits-all. Understanding how the estradiol patch works, what to watch for, and how it fits into your overall health picture is key to getting the best results.

✨ In this episode, we discuss:
 • Important things to be aware of when using HRT
 • How to advocate for your health and ask your doctor the right questions
• A lesser-known complication associated with the estradiol patch
• Symptoms to watch for, including digestive issues and stomach discomfort
• Why these symptoms are often overlooked or misdiagnosed
• How to ask your doctor questions if something doesn’t feel right
• How to approach HRT with more awareness and confidence

If you’re navigating mystery symptoms during perimenopause or menopause, this episode will help you better understand how to be your own health detective and feel more empowered in your midlife health journey.

connect with us:

Michele
Loving Your Wellness
Michele Peacox (@lovingyourwellness) • Instagram photos and videos

Jess
The Live Lightly Podcast | Healthy & Sustainable Living
Jessica Franklin (@livelightlybyjessica) |Instagram photos and videos

Before we say goodbye, just a quick disclaimer.
The content shared on this podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. We are health coaches, not medical professionals, and the information shared here should not be considered medical advice or a substitute for professional medical care.

Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, lifestyle, supplements, or wellness practices, especially if you have a medical condition, are pregnant or nursing, or are taking medications. Never disregard or delay seeking professional medical advice because of something you heard on this podcast.

By listening to this podcast, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own health decisions and outcomes.

Shopping for healthy foods in midlife can feel overwhelming — labels, marketing, and endless options make it hard to know what’s actually good for you. In this episode of Her Health Code, we guide women over 40 on how to make simple, realistic, and hormone-friendly choices at the grocery store without stress or confusion.

Whether you’re navigating perimenopause, menopause, weight changes, or just want to feel better and more energized, the foods you choose every week can make a big difference. We break down what to look for, what to avoid, and how to shop smarter so healthy eating becomes effortless.

✨ In this episode, you’ll learn:
 ✔️ How to navigate the grocery store with confidence
 ✔️ The key foods that support hormones, metabolism, and energy
 ✔️ Simple strategies to avoid overwhelm and make healthy choices
 ✔️ Tips for grocery shopping for yourself and your family
 ✔️ Easy swaps and habits that make healthy eating sustainable

LINKS:
Connect with Jess & Michele:

Michele: lovingyourwellness.com
Instagram

Jess: livelightly.eco
Free Wellness & Home Detox Guide
Instagram

More Episodes You May Love:

Stop Reading Every Food Label: A Simpler Way to Eat Healthy For You & Your Family

How to Stop Sugar Cravings in Midlife: Women's Hormones, Bitters & How to Reset Your Tastebuds Naturally

Hormone-Supporting Meals for Women Over 40 — Featuring Cruciferous Veggies

Digestion Problems in Midlife: How Bitter Foods Can Help

Many women notice their digestion changing in midlife—more bloating, slower digestion, or feeling uncomfortable after meals. In this episode of Her Health Code, we explore why digestion problems become more common during perimenopause and menopause and how bitter foods and digestive bitters can naturally support your gut health.

Bitter foods have been used for centuries to stimulate digestion, support stomach acid production, and help the body break down food more efficiently. Yet in modern diets, these powerful foods are often missing.

In this episode, we decode how adding bitter foods back into your meals can help improve digestion and support overall wellness in midlife.

✨ In this episode, you’ll learn:

 • Why digestion often slows down in midlife
 • The connection between hormones and gut health
 • How bitter foods help stimulate digestion

LINKS:
Connect with Jess & Michele:

Michele: lovingyourwellness.com
Instagram

Jess: livelightly.eco
Free Wellness & Home Detox Guide
Instagram

More Episodes You May Enjoy:
How to Stop Sugar Cravings in Midlife: Women's Hormones, Bitters & How to Reset Your Tastebuds Naturally

How to Make Healthy Choices at the Grocery Store in Midlife

Let's Talk About Dinner Time Decision Fatigue & Perimenopause/Menopause

Creative Ways to Incorporate Cabbage into Your Meals for Better Health

In this episode, Jess and Michele explore delicious and practical ideas for adding more cabbage and cruciferous vegetables to your diet. Whether you're managing hormonal symptoms or looking for budget-friendly, versatile vegetables, these tips will help you make cabbage a regular part of your meals.

Key Topics:

• The health benefits of cruciferous vegetables are especially beneficial for hot flashes and hormonal balance
• Creative recipes: stuffed cabbage rolls, sautéed cabbage with veggies and rice, veggie burgers
• Tips to make cabbage more appealing for kids and picky eaters
• Using broth and seasonings to enhance flavor without complicating meal prep

LINKS:
Connect with Jess & Michele:

Michele: lovingyourwellness.com
Instagram

Jess: livelightly.eco
Free Wellness & Home Detox Guide
Instagram

YouTube

Other episodes you may enjoy:

Let's Talk About Dinner Time Decision Fatigue & Perimenopause/Menopause

If deciding what’s for dinner feels harder than it should, you’re not alone - and it’s not a personal failure. In this episode, we explore how menopause and perimenopause can increase decision fatigue, making everyday tasks like mealtime feel overwhelming and exhausting.

We’ll talk about the hormonal shifts that impact mental energy, why the “what’s for dinner?” question can feel so triggering in midlife, and how the mental load of feeding yourself or your family changes during menopause. You’ll also hear simple, compassionate strategies to reduce mealtime stress, simplify food decisions, and support your nervous system during this season of life.

Whether you’re a busy mom, caregiver, or simply trying to nourish yourself through menopause, this episode offers practical support, validation, and realistic ways to make mealtime easier - without perfection, guilt, or overwhelm.

LINKS:
Connect with Jess & Michele:

Michele: lovingyourwellness.com
Instagram

Jess: livelightly.eco
Free Wellness & Home Detox Guide
Instagram

YouTube

RELATED EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE:

How to Stop Sugar Cravings in Midlife: Women's Hormones, Bitters & How to Reset Your Tastebuds Naturally

Stop Reading Every Food Label: A Simpler Way to Eat Healthy For You & Your Family

As women move through perimenopause and menopause, changing hormones can impact energy, cravings, and blood sugar balance. We’ll share simple, nourishing ways to enjoy naturally sweet treats, using fruits, nuts, seeds, and other whole foods - and chocolate - without going overboard on added refined sugar. Learn practical tips and recipe ideas that help curb cravings, support steady energy, and make indulgence feel both satisfying and nourishing for your body without causing spikes in blood sugar in this season of life.

LINKS:
Connect with Jess & Michele:

Michele: lovingyourwellness.com
Instagram

Jess: livelightly.eco
Free Wellness & Home Detox Guide
Instagram

YouTube

RELATED EPISODES YOU MAY LIKE:

How to Stop Sugar Cravings in Midlife: Women's Hormones, Bitters & How to Reset Your Tastebuds Naturally

Stop Reading Every Food Label: A Simpler Way to Eat Healthy For You & Your Family

Digestion Problems in Midlife: How Bitter Foods Can Help