Insights from the Couch - Real Talk for Women at Midlife

Ever wondered how mindfulness, neuroscience, and therapy intersect to create profound healing? In this episode, we’re thrilled to chat with Natalie Baker, a licensed psychotherapist, meditation teacher, and Neurofeedback expert. Natalie shares how her unique blend of Eastern and Western psychology—alongside cutting-edge brain training techniques—helps people overcome anxiety, trauma, and other challenges. From rewiring the brain for resilience to cultivating self-awareness, Natalie’s holistic approach inspires balance and growth.

We dive into fascinating topics like neuroplasticity, how neurofeedback taps into your brain's natural ability to reset, and why meditation is more than just a stress-relief tool. 

Episode Highlights:

[0:03] - Introducing Natalie Baker and her groundbreaking work in holistic healing.
 [2:30] - How Natalie’s personal journey led her to integrate meditation and therapy.
 [7:08] - Neurofeedback 101: What it is, how it works, and why it’s transformative.
 [13:39] - A powerful story of trauma healing through Neurofeedback on a limbic level.
 [20:52] - Breaking free from survival mode: practical applications of brain training.
 [30:53] - Tapping into intuition through “First Thought, Best Thought” exercises.
 [36:32] - Embracing meditation as a tool for self-awareness and emotional balance.

Resources:

• Natalie’s Neurofeedback Services: neurofeedbacktraining.com
• Buddhist Psychotherapy Practice: buddhistpsychotherapyny.com
• YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Neurofeedbacktraining 
• 🔥Get Clear on What You Want in Your Sex Life: Free Download! 

For more on this topic visit our website insightsfromthecouch.org If you have questions please email us at [email protected] we would love to hear from you!

If today's discussion resonated with you or sparked curiosity, please rate, follow, and share "Insights from the Couch" with others. Your support helps us reach more people and continue providing valuable insights. Here’s to finding our purposes and living a life full of meaning and joy. Stay tuned for more!

Ever stayed quiet to keep the peace and felt yourself disappear? The Cost of Quiet is for anyone who avoids conflict and pays the price. Reclaim your voice, strengthen your relationships, and experience real peace. Order your copy and join the movement: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book

🎙️ Love the podcast? Come talk about episodes with us inside The Midlife Chat. It’s a free, private community just for women at midlife who want to keep these conversations going. We’ve created this space for real talk, fresh resources, and honest connection—where you can share ideas and resources, ask questions, and get support from women navigating the same season.  Come join us—we’d love to have you!

👉 Join The Midlife Chat here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/795863256460970/

Order The Cost of Quiet now! Colette’s new book, The Cost of Quiet: How to Have the Hard Conversations that Create Secure, Lasting Love, launched February 3rd. Order your copy today: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book

Recognized by FeedSpot:
Top 60 Couples Therapy Podcasts | Top 100 U.S. Mental Health Podcasts | Top 100 Relaxation Podcasts

In this episode, we tackle the challenging topic of the Sandwich Generation – those caught between raising children and caring for aging parents while managing their own careers and lives. Let’s get into the emotional, financial, and physical toll this can take. We will offer practical advice on how to cope without losing oneself to help you navigate this demanding phase of life.

We will discuss strategies for setting boundaries, asking for help, and maintaining your well-being. Whether in the thick of it or just preparing for what’s ahead, this episode provides relatable experiences and actionable tips to help you find balance and support.

Episode Highlights:
[1:58] - Real-life client stories and the impact of teenage children and ill parents.
[4:29] - Shocking statistics about the time demands on the Sandwich Generation.[6:07] - Emotional and financial burdens of caregiving, even with strained family dynamics.
[8:55] - The pervasive guilt and resentment felt by many caregivers.
[10:55] - Personal experiences and the challenges of asking for help.
[15:25] - The Giving Tree analogy and the dangers of giving too much without receiving support.
[18:30] - The importance of direct communication and setting boundaries.
[20:30] - Healthy coping mechanisms and the importance of self-care.
[30:01] - Recap key strategies and proactive self-care's importance.

Resources:

🔥Get Clear on What You Want in Your Sex Life: Free Download! 

For more on this topic visit our website insightsfromthecouch.org If you have questions please email us at [email protected] we would love to hear from you!

If today's discussion resonated with you or sparked curiosity, please rate, follow, and share "Insights from the Couch" with others. Your support helps us reach more people and continue providing valuable insights. Here’s to finding our purposes and living a life full of meaning and joy. Stay tuned for more!

Ever stayed quiet to keep the peace and felt yourself disappear? The Cost of Quiet is for anyone who avoids conflict and pays the price. Reclaim your voice, strengthen your relationships, and experience real peace. Order your copy and join the movement: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book

🎙️ Love the podcast? Come talk about episodes with us inside The Midlife Chat. It’s a free, private community just for women at midlife who want to keep these conversations going. We’ve created this space for real talk, fresh resources, and honest connection—where you can share ideas and resources, ask questions, and get support from women navigating the same season.  Come join us—we’d love to have you!

👉 Join The Midlife Chat here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/795863256460970/

Order The Cost of Quiet now! Colette’s new book, The Cost of Quiet: How to Have the Hard Conversations that Create Secure, Lasting Love, launched February 3rd. Order your copy today: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book

Recognized by FeedSpot:
Top 60 Couples Therapy Podcasts | Top 100 U.S. Mental Health Podcasts | Top 100 Relaxation Podcasts

In this episode, we’re inviting you into a conversation that might just change the way you think about sexuality, agency, and self-discovery. We’re joined by the incredible Dr. Juliana Hauser, a psychologist, sex educator, and thought leader in holistic sexuality. If you’re wondering what that means, you’re not alone! Dr. Juliana walks us through the nine pillars of holistic sexuality and why understanding ourselves as sexual beings is the "final frontier" of self-development.

We explore everything from sexual agency and desire in midlife to the unspoken barriers that hold us back from fully embracing our sexuality. Plus, we tackle the cultural shame, myths, and misunderstandings that have shaped our sexual identities—and how to break free from them. Whether you're in a long-term relationship and struggling with intimacy, single and rediscovering yourself, or simply curious about what it means to live a more sexually confident life, this episode has value for you. Get ready for an open, honest, and sometimes hilarious conversation that will leave you with a whole new perspective on pleasure, connection, and self-expression.

Episode Highlights:

[00:03] - Introducing Dr. Juliana Hauser and what "holistic sexuality" really means.

[01:23] - The nine pillars of holistic sexuality and why they matter in self-discovery.

[06:49] - Why so many of us avoid thinking about our sexual selves—and how to start the journey.

[12:23] - There are no wrong answers! How agency and consent play a role in shaping our sexual identity.

[17:50] - The differences in how men and women experience sexual conversations and why men are "desperate" for safe spaces to talk.

[24:31] - How couples can start talking about their sex lives without fear, shame, or defensiveness.

[27:16] - Midlife sexual awakenings—what happens when someone truly embraces their desires?

[34:31] - The "four quadrant" exercise: a simple yet powerful way to explore your yeses and nos.

[42:38] - Why sex takes work—and how curiosity can completely transform your intimate life.

[51:45] - A fun, hands-on (literally) way to understand your sensuality and personal touch preferences.

[54:46] - How to learn more about Dr. Juliana’s course Revealed and her upcoming book, A New Position on Sex.

Resources:

• Dr. Juiliana’s website: https://dr-juliana.com/ 
• The Revealed Life: an evolved sex ed platform: https://therevealedlife.com/ 
• Social Media: @drjulianahauser
• Keep an eye out for Dr. Juliana’s upcoming book: A New Position on Sex: A Guide to Greater Sexual Confidence, Authenticity, and Pleasure (Coming Fall 2025)
• 🔥Get Clear on What You Want in Your Sex Life: Free Download! 

For more on this topic visit our website insightsfromthecouch.org If you have questions please email us at [email protected] we would love to hear from you!

If today's discussion resonated with you or sparked curiosity, please rate, follow, and share "Insights from the Couch" with others. Your support helps us reach more people and continue providing valuable insights. Here’s to finding our purposes and living a life full of meaning and joy. Stay tuned for more!

Ever stayed quiet to keep the peace and felt yourself disappear? The Cost of Quiet is for anyone who avoids conflict and pays the price. Reclaim your voice, strengthen your relationships, and experience real peace. Order your copy and join the movement: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book

🎙️ Love the podcast? Come talk about episodes with us inside The Midlife Chat. It’s a free, private community just for women at midlife who want to keep these conversations going. We’ve created this space for real talk, fresh resources, and honest connection—where you can share ideas and resources, ask questions, and get support from women navigating the same season.  Come join us—we’d love to have you!

👉 Join The Midlife Chat here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/795863256460970/

Order The Cost of Quiet now! Colette’s new book, The Cost of Quiet: How to Have the Hard Conversations that Create Secure, Lasting Love, launched February 3rd. Order your copy today: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book

Recognized by FeedSpot:
Top 60 Couples Therapy Podcasts | Top 100 U.S. Mental Health Podcasts | Top 100 Relaxation Podcasts

Hey everyone, Colette and Laura here! This week, we’re diving deep into one of the biggest, most emotionally loaded topics: What makes a good mother? If you’re a parent (or ever had one), you’ve likely asked yourself this question in some form—whether it’s self-reflection, societal pressure, or those internalized voices from childhood.

We unpack the emotional complexities of motherhood, the impact of attachment, and how our childhood experiences shape the way we parent. Plus, we dive into the wild case of Ruby Franke—the “mommy blogger” turned convicted abuser—to contrast what real maternal love looks like versus performative parenting. We also get personal about our own mothering styles, the mistakes we’ve made, and the lessons we’ve learned. This episode is raw, honest, and full of insights that might just shift the way you think about motherhood.

Episode Highlights:

[0:02] – Kicking off the conversation: What really makes a “good mother”?

[1:44] – The constant self-questioning of moms: Am I doing this right?

[2:11] – The shocking case of Ruby Franke—what happens when motherhood is all about image and control.

[6:37] – How we model (or reject) our own mothers’ parenting styles.

[10:14] – One of the most critical traits of a good mom: Knowing where you end and your child begins.

[12:30] – The emotional burden some mothers put on their children (and how to break the cycle).

[15:29] – The role of discipline: Leading with warmth vs. using shame and control.

[21:10] – Parenting different personalities: How to adapt to your child’s unique needs.

[23:53] – Why the parent-child relationship is always top-down (yes, even when your kids are adults).

[31:15] – What our own kids say makes a good mom (these answers might surprise you!).

[36:35] – The lifelong impact of emotional safety and feeling unconditionally loved.

[42:42] – Why telling kids an age-appropriate truth is crucial for their stability and trust.

[46:24] – The viral “Door Holder #3” moment that perfectly captures great parenting. 

Resources:

Door Holder Number 3 Video: https://youtube.com/shorts/T8AlmEjmtLU?si=1-eDTo6MSAesGgkj 

For more on this topic visit our website insightsfromthecouch.org If you have questions please email us at [email protected] we would love to hear from you!

If today's discussion resonated with you or sparked curiosity, please rate, follow, and share "Insights from the Couch" with others. Your support helps us reach more people and continue providing valuable insights. Here’s to finding our purposes and living a life full of meaning and joy. Stay tuned for more!

Ever stayed quiet to keep the peace and felt yourself disappear? The Cost of Quiet is for anyone who avoids conflict and pays the price. Reclaim your voice, strengthen your relationships, and experience real peace. Order your copy and join the movement: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book

🎙️ Love the podcast? Come talk about episodes with us inside The Midlife Chat. It’s a free, private community just for women at midlife who want to keep these conversations going. We’ve created this space for real talk, fresh resources, and honest connection—where you can share ideas and resources, ask questions, and get support from women navigating the same season.  Come join us—we’d love to have you!

👉 Join The Midlife Chat here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/795863256460970/

Order The Cost of Quiet now! Colette’s new book, The Cost of Quiet: How to Have the Hard Conversations that Create Secure, Lasting Love, launched February 3rd. Order your copy today: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book

Recognized by FeedSpot:
Top 60 Couples Therapy Podcasts | Top 100 U.S. Mental Health Podcasts | Top 100 Relaxation Podcasts

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) has long been misunderstood, especially in women and girls. In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Brady Bradshaw and Dr. Allison Brazendale, two experts in adolescent and adult mental health, to break down why ASD is often underdiagnosed in females. We dive into pink flags, the subtle signs that might indicate ASD, and discuss why so many girls and women go undiagnosed for years. Plus, we explore the overlap between ASD and ADHD, the role of sensory sensitivities, and how understanding ASD can lead to greater self-acceptance and connection.

Episode Highlights:

[00:03] – Welcome back! Introducing our expert guests, Dr. Brady Bradshaw and Dr. Allison Brazendale, and today’s topic: ASD in women and girls.

[01:55] – Why is autism so often underdiagnosed in females? Breaking down outdated stereotypes and the challenges of diagnosis.

[04:18] – Pink flags: The subtle early signs of ASD in girls that are often overlooked.

[06:50] – The effortful nature of social interactions and why masking can be exhausting.

[09:56] – How girls on the spectrum struggle with friendships and group dynamics.

[12:36] – The overlap between ADHD and autism—how to tell the difference.

[14:45] – What’s happening in the brain? Understanding the neurobiological differences of ASD.

[23:37] – Sensory sensitivities: Why environments like grocery stores can feel overwhelming.

[26:25] – Breaking the stigma: How the conversation around ASD is shifting, and why some are resistant to the diagnosis.

[33:13] – Signs of ASD in adult women—what to look for if you suspect you or someone you know might be on the spectrum.

[38:45] – ASD and relationships: Challenges in communication, perspective-taking, and emotional connection.

[47:55] – The strengths of ASD: Deep focus, intelligence, and unique ways of seeing the world.

Resources:

Dr. Brady Bradshaw’s website: https://www.bradybradshawmd.com/ 

Book: Is This Autism? https://www.amazon.com/This-Autism-Donna-Henderson/dp/103215022X/ref=asc_df_103215022X?mcid=c3343feccc2d380f97695f5d35 

For more on this topic visit our website insightsfromthecouch.org If you have questions please email us at [email protected] we would love to hear from you!

If today's discussion resonated with you or sparked curiosity, please rate, follow, and share "Insights from the Couch" with others. Your support helps us reach more people and continue providing valuable insights. Here’s to finding our purposes and living a life full of meaning and joy. Stay tuned for more!

Ever stayed quiet to keep the peace and felt yourself disappear? The Cost of Quiet is for anyone who avoids conflict and pays the price. Reclaim your voice, strengthen your relationships, and experience real peace. Order your copy and join the movement: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book

🎙️ Love the podcast? Come talk about episodes with us inside The Midlife Chat. It’s a free, private community just for women at midlife who want to keep these conversations going. We’ve created this space for real talk, fresh resources, and honest connection—where you can share ideas and resources, ask questions, and get support from women navigating the same season.  Come join us—we’d love to have you!

👉 Join The Midlife Chat here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/795863256460970/

Order The Cost of Quiet now! Colette’s new book, The Cost of Quiet: How to Have the Hard Conversations that Create Secure, Lasting Love, launched February 3rd. Order your copy today: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book

Recognized by FeedSpot:
Top 60 Couples Therapy Podcasts | Top 100 U.S. Mental Health Podcasts | Top 100 Relaxation Podcasts

In this week’s episode, we take a deep dive into anxiety—something that affects nearly 20% of the population and twice as many women as men. We chat about the different ways anxiety can show up in your life, the underlying causes, and the tools you can use to cope. Whether it’s hormonal fluctuations, past trauma, or just the demands of our fast-paced culture, anxiety can hit us all, but there’s hope for healing and thriving.

We also share our own experiences with anxiety (yep, even therapists feel it!) and discuss effective approaches like EMDR, exposure response prevention, and mindfulness. You’ll walk away with a better understanding of anxiety and practical tips to help you or someone you care about take control. 

Episode Highlights:
[00:00] - Reflecting on our personal experiences with anxiety.
[02:56] - How anxiety manifests differently in women, from Type A tendencies to the effects of hormonal shifts.
[07:18] - Exploring the “volcano metaphor” for anxiety and the hidden cultural, genetic, and environmental layers that contribute.
[14:05] - Common triggers for anxiety, from childhood experiences to significant life events, and their impact on mental health.
[21:27] - The role of fear and how it connects to anxiety, plus how to push through when it matters most.
[28:49] - Simple yet powerful coping strategies like exercise, mindfulness, and being in nature.
[39:36] - The importance of exposure therapy and facing fears gradually to build resilience.
[45:20] - Why medication is a valuable option for managing clinical anxiety and overcoming stigma around it.
[53:16] - Lifestyle strategies like diet, sleep, and relaxation techniques to ease everyday anxiety.
[1:01:56] - Recommended books and resources for learning more about anxiety and effective treatments.

Resources:

Recommended reading:

• The Anatomy of Anxiety by Dr. Ellen Vora
• Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway by Susan Jeffers
• More book recommendations are listed on our website!

For more on this topic visit our website insightsfromthecouch.org If you have questions please email us at [email protected] we would love to hear from you!

If today's discussion resonated with you or sparked curiosity, please rate, follow, and share "Insights from the Couch" with others. Your support helps us reach more people and continue providing valuable insights. Here’s to finding our purposes and living a life full of meaning and joy. Stay tuned for more!

Ever stayed quiet to keep the peace and felt yourself disappear? The Cost of Quiet is for anyone who avoids conflict and pays the price. Reclaim your voice, strengthen your relationships, and experience real peace. Order your copy and join the movement: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book

🎙️ Love the podcast? Come talk about episodes with us inside The Midlife Chat. It’s a free, private community just for women at midlife who want to keep these conversations going. We’ve created this space for real talk, fresh resources, and honest connection—where you can share ideas and resources, ask questions, and get support from women navigating the same season.  Come join us—we’d love to have you!

👉 Join The Midlife Chat here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/795863256460970/

Order The Cost of Quiet now! Colette’s new book, The Cost of Quiet: How to Have the Hard Conversations that Create Secure, Lasting Love, launched February 3rd. Order your copy today: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book

Recognized by FeedSpot:
Top 60 Couples Therapy Podcasts | Top 100 U.S. Mental Health Podcasts | Top 100 Relaxation Podcasts

Today we sit down with the incredible Cait Flanders to explore what it really means to live an intentional life. Cait, author of The Year of Less and Adventures in Opting Out, shares her journey of opting out of societal norms, creating life on her own terms, and learning how to navigate her way through sobriety, minimalism, and self-compassion. Cait opens up about her decision to quit drinking, her shopping ban that led to a massive decluttering of her life—both physically and emotionally—and the tough but necessary journey of finding clarity through less. This is an episode about finding peace in simplicity, courage in self-awareness, and learning how to let go of what no longer serves us.

Episode Highlights:
[02:27] - Letting go of relationships and finding peace with personal boundaries.[06:12] - Societal pressure and opting out of the social “noise”.
[06:30] - Welcoming Cait as she joins us to share her story firsthand.
[07:55] - Cait’s shopping ban: how decluttering and minimalism started her journey.
[11:34] - Evolving from financial goals to a deeper emotional transformation.
[15:37] - Navigating sobriety and finding healthy coping mechanisms.
[18:26] - Facing raw emotions during the year of less and embracing vulnerability.
[24:15] - Cait’s dad on sobriety: “It’s so much better on this side”.
[26:35] - Self-compassion and letting go of shame for past choices.
[31:20] - Cultivating resilience and self-trust through intentional change.
[35:49] - Embracing emotional growth and self-connection to enrich relationships.

Connect with Cait Flanders:

• Website: https://www.caitflanders.com/ 
• Newsletter: https://caitflanders.substack.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caitflanders 

For more on this topic visit our website insightsfromthecouch.org If you have questions please email us at [email protected] we would love to hear from you!

If today's discussion resonated with you or sparked curiosity, please rate, follow, and share "Insights from the Couch" with others. Your support helps us reach more people and continue providing valuable insights. Here’s to finding our purposes and living a life full of meaning and joy. Stay tuned for more!

Ever stayed quiet to keep the peace and felt yourself disappear? The Cost of Quiet is for anyone who avoids conflict and pays the price. Reclaim your voice, strengthen your relationships, and experience real peace. Order your copy and join the movement: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book

🎙️ Love the podcast? Come talk about episodes with us inside The Midlife Chat. It’s a free, private community just for women at midlife who want to keep these conversations going. We’ve created this space for real talk, fresh resources, and honest connection—where you can share ideas and resources, ask questions, and get support from women navigating the same season.  Come join us—we’d love to have you!

👉 Join The Midlife Chat here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/795863256460970/

Order The Cost of Quiet now! Colette’s new book, The Cost of Quiet: How to Have the Hard Conversations that Create Secure, Lasting Love, launched February 3rd. Order your copy today: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book

Recognized by FeedSpot:
Top 60 Couples Therapy Podcasts | Top 100 U.S. Mental Health Podcasts | Top 100 Relaxation Podcasts

In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, we sit down with the incredible Sandy Weiner, internationally recognized dating coach, TEDx speaker, best-selling author, and host of Last First Date Radio. Sandy shares her journey of rediscovering love at midlife and the empowering lessons she’s learned about dating, self-knowledge, and personal growth. We dive into her holistic approach to dating and relationships, explore the surprising ways midlifers can find lasting love, and discuss what it really takes to build a meaningful relationship at this stage of life. Join us as we uncover the keys to finding—and keeping—a lasting love.

Episode Highlights:
[00:00] - Introduction to Sandy Weiner and her inspiring journey to becoming a dating and relationship coach.
[05:25] - The influence of family dynamics on our approach to relationships.
[07:22] - Coaching highlights and witnessing clients grow into fulfilling relationships.
[13:05] - Staying open to unexpected romantic connections, even in unlikely places.
[18:51] - The rise of self-sufficient women at midlife and the choice to remain single unless a partner adds genuine value.
[20:48] - Overcoming the most common dating obstacles and the importance of a growth mindset.
[29:38] - Knowing and respecting your “operating system” in relationships.
[30:49] - Secrets to making love last, from self-improvement to embracing compatibility over chemistry. 

Resources:

• Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourlastfirstdate/  
• Website: http://lastfirstdate.com/  
• Last First Date Radio Podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/last-first-date-radio/id586220219?mt=2 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lastfirstdate1/  
• YouTube Last First Date https://youtube.com/@Lastfirstdate  
• Free Gift: Book Bonuses for Love at Last:  https://lastfirstdate.com/love-at-last-book-bonuses-sign-up-page/  https://lastfirstdate.com/loveatlastbonus 

For more on this topic visit our website insightsfromthecouch.org If you have questions please email us at [email protected] we would love to hear from you!

If today's discussion resonated with you or sparked curiosity, please rate, follow, and share "Insights from the Couch" with others. Your support helps us reach more people and continue providing valuable insights. Here’s to finding our purposes and living a life full of meaning and joy. Stay tuned for more!

Ever stayed quiet to keep the peace and felt yourself disappear? The Cost of Quiet is for anyone who avoids conflict and pays the price. Reclaim your voice, strengthen your relationships, and experience real peace. Order your copy and join the movement: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book

🎙️ Love the podcast? Come talk about episodes with us inside The Midlife Chat. It’s a free, private community just for women at midlife who want to keep these conversations going. We’ve created this space for real talk, fresh resources, and honest connection—where you can share ideas and resources, ask questions, and get support from women navigating the same season.  Come join us—we’d love to have you!

👉 Join The Midlife Chat here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/795863256460970/

Order The Cost of Quiet now! Colette’s new book, The Cost of Quiet: How to Have the Hard Conversations that Create Secure, Lasting Love, launched February 3rd. Order your copy today: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book

Recognized by FeedSpot:
Top 60 Couples Therapy Podcasts | Top 100 U.S. Mental Health Podcasts | Top 100 Relaxation Podcasts

In today’s episode of Insights from the Couch, we discuss the evolving conversation around work, family, and redefining what it means to take a career pause. Joined by Neha Ruch, founder of the platform Mother Untitled, we explore the insights from her upcoming book, The Power Pause, and how it encourages women to embrace career downshifts or pauses with confidence and purpose. Neha shares her journey of moving from corporate ambition to an intentional family-focused life, challenging outdated beliefs that staying at home and career ambitions are mutually exclusive.

Together, we explore the fluidity in women’s career choices, discuss the economic and social shifts that allow flexibility in work-family balance, and the importance of owning your unique journey without shame or fear. 

Episode Highlights:
[0:00] – Introduction to the episode and welcoming Neha Ruch, founder of Mother Untitled.
[1:34] – Neha shares her journey from corporate life to embracing a career pause.
[4:47] – Discussing the cultural expectations and shifting narratives around motherhood and career.
[7:26] – The pandemic’s impact on work-life balance and caregiving in America.[11:16] – The real financial considerations in choosing to stay at home or pause a career.
[13:36] – Maximizing a career pause: Personal growth and keeping the door open for future work.
[18:15] – Why developing an “expansive identity” during family life stages can lead to a stronger career reentry.
[23:10] – Addressing fears about a “resume gap” and reframing it as a “career portfolio.”
[27:02] – What America can learn from other countries about family leave and healthcare.
[29:23] – The role of social media in supporting flexible work and women-owned businesses.
[32:08] – Tips for finding flexible work options that align with your family’s needs.

Resources:

• Neha's platform supporting women in family-focused career choices - https://www.motheruntitled.com/ 
• This is a game-changing strategic guide for mothers in career shifts Amazon or Bookshop.org 
• Follow on Instagram: @motheruntitled

For more on this topic visit our website insightsfromthecouch.org If you have questions please email us at [email protected] we would love to hear from you!

If today's discussion resonated with you or sparked curiosity, please rate, follow, and share "Insights from the Couch" with others. Your support helps us reach more people and continue providing valuable insights. Here’s to finding our purposes and living a life full of meaning and joy. Stay tuned for more!

Ever stayed quiet to keep the peace and felt yourself disappear? The Cost of Quiet is for anyone who avoids conflict and pays the price. Reclaim your voice, strengthen your relationships, and experience real peace. Order your copy and join the movement: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book

🎙️ Love the podcast? Come talk about episodes with us inside The Midlife Chat. It’s a free, private community just for women at midlife who want to keep these conversations going. We’ve created this space for real talk, fresh resources, and honest connection—where you can share ideas and resources, ask questions, and get support from women navigating the same season.  Come join us—we’d love to have you!

👉 Join The Midlife Chat here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/795863256460970/

Order The Cost of Quiet now! Colette’s new book, The Cost of Quiet: How to Have the Hard Conversations that Create Secure, Lasting Love, launched February 3rd. Order your copy today: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book

Recognized by FeedSpot:
Top 60 Couples Therapy Podcasts | Top 100 U.S. Mental Health Podcasts | Top 100 Relaxation Podcasts

This week, we’re joined by the incredible Dr. Marnie Feuerman, a renowned couples therapist and author of Ghosted and Breadcrumbed. Together, we tackle the heart-wrenching question so many face: Should I stay in this relationship or should I leave? Dr. Marnie shares her wisdom on navigating divorce ambivalence, emotional disconnection, and the power of discernment counseling to find clarity and confidence. Are you in a “gray divorce” phase or just questioning your connection? The insights Dr. Marni Feuerman shares can help you move forward with intention.

We talk about the importance of emotional availability, how systemic understanding can transform relational dynamics, and why some relationships struggle during midlife transitions. Dr. Marnie also unpacks the nuances of attachment styles and how they shape the way couples connect or disconnect. Don’t miss this candid and compassionate conversation that may just help you find the clarity you’ve been searching for.

Episode Highlights:
[00:02] - Introducing Dr. Marnie Feuerman and her expertise in relationship counseling.
[01:56] - Dr. Marnie shares her perspective on why divorce ambivalence is so common and the complexities behind such a monumental decision.
[05:23] - Discussing "gray divorce" and how empty nest syndrome can magnify marital issues.
[08:05] - The impact of menopause and hormonal changes on intimacy and connection in relationships.
[11:39] - Emotional unavailability explained: What it looks like, how it affects relationships, and the role of attachment styles.
[15:55] - Colette reflects on her own experience with emotional disconnection in a marriage.
[20:23] - The "lottery test" question: A surprising way to explore how someone feels about staying in their marriage.
[26:34] - The difference between being “in love” versus experiencing a deeper, companionate love.
[30:48] - Dr. Marnie explains discernment counseling: What it is and how it helps couples clarify their next steps.
[36:30] - Why couples therapy requires at least one “cheerleader” for the relationship to succeed.
[41:22] - Final takeaways: Why seeking professional guidance with a systemic approach is essential when facing relationship crossroads.

Resources:

• Dr. Marni Feuerman’s Website: https://www.drmarnionline.com/ 
• Dr. Marni Feuerman’s Psychotherapy: https://thetalkingsolution.com/ 
• Dr. Marni Feuerman’s Book: Ghosted and Breadcrumbed: Stop Falling for Unavailable Men and Get Smart about Healthy Relationships

For more on this topic visit our website insightsfromthecouch.org If you have questions please email us at [email protected] we would love to hear from you!

If today's discussion resonated with you or sparked curiosity, please rate, follow, and share "Insights from the Couch" with others. Your support helps us reach more people and continue providing valuable insights. Here’s to finding our purposes and living a life full of meaning and joy. Stay tuned for more!

Ever stayed quiet to keep the peace and felt yourself disappear? The Cost of Quiet is for anyone who avoids conflict and pays the price. Reclaim your voice, strengthen your relationships, and experience real peace. Order your copy and join the movement: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book

🎙️ Love the podcast? Come talk about episodes with us inside The Midlife Chat. It’s a free, private community just for women at midlife who want to keep these conversations going. We’ve created this space for real talk, fresh resources, and honest connection—where you can share ideas and resources, ask questions, and get support from women navigating the same season.  Come join us—we’d love to have you!

👉 Join The Midlife Chat here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/795863256460970/

Order The Cost of Quiet now! Colette’s new book, The Cost of Quiet: How to Have the Hard Conversations that Create Secure, Lasting Love, launched February 3rd. Order your copy today: https://www.colettejanefehr.com/new-book

Recognized by FeedSpot:
Top 60 Couples Therapy Podcasts | Top 100 U.S. Mental Health Podcasts | Top 100 Relaxation Podcasts