Inspired Living for Women: Conversations With Women Over 40

In the latest episode of the Inspiring Journeys podcast, host Lauri Wakefield focuses on childhood abuse and the path to healing with guest Lisa Tickel, a survivor-turned-advocate. Lisa shares her deeply personal story, highlighting the invisible wounds of trauma and her transformative journey through self-awareness, support, and education. The episode examines the systemic nature of abuse, its generational impact, and the importance of specialized trauma therapy. Lisa discusses her work through her podcast, Healing and Growing Hand-in-Hand, and her upcoming Women’s Childhood Abuse Healing Workshop, which offers targeted support and education. Through heartfelt dialogue, Lauri and Lisa emphasize the power of community, shared experiences, and the resilience of the human spirit, inspiring listeners to embrace healing and foster meaningful connections.


Key Topics Discussed:

• Lisa recounts her experiences with different forms of abuse
• Discussion of the impact of childhood trauma on adult relationships
• Overview of the four pillars of Lisa's podcast
• Insight into the Women's Childhood Abuse Healing Workshop

Key Takeaways:

Healing Requires Self-Awareness: Recognizing and understanding the impact of past trauma is crucial to fostering personal growth and recovery.

Community and Shared Experiences Are Transformative: Support systems and shared healing journeys create safe spaces that empower survivors and promote resilience.

Education and Advocacy Foster Change: Raising awareness and providing resources through platforms like podcasts and workshops help break cycles of trauma and inspire empowerment.

Healing Is an Ongoing Process: Recovery involves continuous self-reflection, building connections, and embracing support to pave the way for healthier relationships and a stronger sense of self.

Lisa's Bio: Lisa Tickel, a resilient survivor of childhood abuse, has transformed her healing journey into a mission to inspire and uplift others. As the creator and host of the podcast Healing & Growing, Hand in Hand, Lisa collaborates with experts and survivors to share transformative tools, stories, and insights for personal growth and recovery. With courage and authenticity, she provides a safe space for open conversations about overcoming trauma and celebrating triumphs. Off the mic, Lisa enjoys hiking with her dogs, Ace and Blackjack, spending time with her blended family, dancing, and cherishing meaningful connections with friends.

More About Lisa:

Website & Podcast: healingandgrowinghandinhandpodcast.com
Workshop: Women's Childhood Abuse Healing Workshop
Schedule a Free 30-minute Discovery Call 

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Website: inspiredlivingforwomen.com

In this episode of the Inspiring Journeys podcast, guest Jeanne Grant shares her powerful story of resilience and advocacy after she was diagnosed with Lyme disease in 2011. She shares her story from childhood, her introduction to horses, her shift to a career in accounting, and her life as an advocate for Lyme disease awareness. This enriching conversation explores Jeanne's diagnosis, the struggles she faced, and her journey towards recovery with the help of innovative treatment. Jeanne also offers advice for others who might be suffering from Lyme disease and emphasizes the importance of proper diagnosis and family support.


Key Topics:

Diagnosis Challenges: Difficulty in recognizing Lyme disease due to its diverse symptoms, often leading to misdiagnosis or delayed diagnosis.

Physical and Emotional Impact: The toll Lyme disease takes on the body, including fatigue, pain, and cognitive issues, as well as the emotional strain of dealing with an unpredictable illness.

Treatment Journey: The process of finding effective treatments, which may involve a mix of conventional medicine, alternative therapies, and lifestyle changes.

Living with Uncertainty: Coping with the uncertainty of recovery and the constant adjustment to new symptoms and setbacks.


Key Takeaways:

Early Diagnosis is Crucial: Recognizing the symptoms early can help prevent delays in treatment and reduce the long-term impact of Lyme disease.

Holistic Approach to Healing: A combination of conventional treatments, alternative therapies, and lifestyle adjustments can provide the best path to recovery.

Physical and Emotional Resilience: Managing the physical challenges of Lyme disease requires not only medical treatment but also emotional strength to cope with its effects.

Self-Advocacy is Empowering: Taking an active role in your health care, seeking out the right specialists, and staying informed can lead to more effective treatment outcomes.


Jeanne's Bio: Jeanne Grant is the founder of the Lyme Revive Foundation, a nonprofit organization born from her personal experience with Lyme disease and her mission to offer hope and healing to others affected by the illness. After enduring severe symptoms that left her bedridden for three years, Jeanne, along with three of her five children, faced the devastating impacts of Lyme disease. Despite years of treatment, including antibiotics and a Rife Machine, Jeanne found a life-changing solution through a cationic mineral formula. This formula, which led to her miraculous recovery, inspired her to create the Lyme Revive Foundation, which educates the public, funds treatments for those in need, and supports Lyme disease research and awareness. Jeanne’s foundation helps families navigate the challenges of Lyme disease and provides resources to improve their quality of life.


More About Jeanne:
lymerevive.org
Contact Form

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Website: inspiredlivingforwomen.com

In this episode of the Inspiring Journeys podcast, Mayim Vega shares her incredible transformation from a high-tech career at NASA to her calling as a Naturopathic Herbalist and Holistic Life Coach. She opens up about how a personal health crisis became the turning point that led her to embrace holistic wellness. Drawing from ancient healing practices and the wisdom of traditional societies, she reveals the powerful connection between modern health struggles and the fast-paced Western lifestyle. Mayim introduces her holistic detox program, offering practical tools to address the toxic elements of modern living and achieve balance, vitality, and a deeper connection between mind, body, and spirit. This episode is a treasure trove of inspiration and actionable steps for women seeking to thrive in midlife and beyond.


Key Topics:

Mayim’s Career Transition:
Journey from NASA computer scientist to Naturopathic Herbalist and Holistic Life Coach.

The Role of Early Influences:
How her mother's emphasis on whole foods and fresh ingredients shaped her perspective.

Modern Health Challenges:
The impact of Western lifestyle habits, including processed foods and sedentary routines.

Holistic Wellness Practices:
The interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit in achieving wellness.


Key Takeaways:

Health as a Journey:
A personal health crisis can be a powerful catalyst for transformation and self-discovery.

The Power of Natural Living:
Returning to whole foods, mindful movement, and traditional wellness practices can combat modern health challenges.

Holistic Approaches Work:
Integrating mind, body, and spirit is essential for achieving lasting wellness and vitality.

Empowerment Through Action:
Midlife is an opportunity for reinvention and growth, with tools like detox programs and holistic coaching to support the journey.

Mayim's Bio: Mayim Vega is a dynamic Speaker, Author, and Holistic Life Coach dedicated to empowering others through holistic health, wellness, and success. She advocates for holistic living and a success-oriented mindset. With expertise in health, coaching, and business, Mayim offers a transformative approach to achieving balance and thriving in body, mind, and soul.

More About Mayim:
Website: mayimvega.com
Holistic Health & Life Coaching FREE Session
Holistic Healer Certification Program
HolisticPreneur FREE Guide 

If you enjoyed listening to this episode, please share it with others if you think they would also enjoy it. Thank you!

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Website: inspiredlivingforwomen.com

In this episode, we highlight the inspiring journey of Dr. Lauren Ramsey, a breast cancer surgeon, inventor, and advocate for healthcare safety. From her childhood dream of becoming a doctor to creating the innovative BAT Radiation Shield, Dr. Ramsey's story reflects her compassion, determination, and drive to make a difference. Her dedication to patients and her efforts to protect healthcare workers from radiation exposure underscore her impactful work. Join us as we explore how knowledge, early detection, and innovation remain vital in the fight against breast cancer.

Key Topics Discussed:

Breast Cancer Prevention and Early Detection:
Learn about the lifestyle factors and screening methods Dr. Ramsey recommends to reduce breast cancer risks, including annual mammograms, MRIs, and healthy habits.

The Impact of Radiation Exposure on Healthcare Professionals:
Dr. Ramsey discusses her investigation into the risks healthcare workers face from prolonged radiation exposure, particularly in high-risk specialties like orthopedic surgery and interventional cardiology.

The BAT Shield: A Game-Changing Innovation:
Hear the story behind the BAT shield, the innovative radiation protection device Dr. Ramsey co-developed. Lightweight, adjustable, and compatible with existing equipment, the BAT shield offers enhanced coverage to safeguard vulnerable areas.

Key Takeaways:

Maintaining an active lifestyle and following a healthy diet can help prevent breast cancer, and annual mammograms can detect it early if it occurs.

Mammograms are widely regarded as a safe and effective tool for breast cancer screening. Women concerned about radiation exposure can opt for an MRI as an alternative.

Healthcare workers face risks from prolonged radiation exposure; Dr. Ramsey's BAT shield is transforming protection in the U.S. and U.K., reducing radiation-induced cancer risks.

Dr. Lauren Ramsey's Bio: Dr. Lauren Ramsey is a Breast Surgical Oncologist and Medical Director of Breast Surgery at Acclaim Multi-Specialty Group in Fort Worth, TX. She earned her B.S. in Neuroscience and M.D. from the University of Pittsburgh and completed her surgical training at Baylor University.

Dr. Ramsey designed the "BAT" shield to protect the breast, axilla, and thyroid from radiation, addressing the needs of female healthcare workers in high-exposure fields. She is dedicated to advancing women's health through innovative care and advocacy.

More About Dr. Ramsey:
LinkedIn: Connect on LinkedIn

More About the BAT Shield:
Video: Dr. Ramsey Demonstrates How to Wear the BAT Shield. Watch the Video.
Read More About the BAT Shield at Burlington Medical 

If you enjoyed listening to this episode, please share it with others if you think they would also enjoy it. Thank you!

✨ Begin Your Realignment Reset — A simple, 7-day guided reset to help you pause, get clear, and realign with what matters most. Perfect for women 45+ who are ready for a fresh start.
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Website: inspiredlivingforwomen.com

In this inspiring episode, Patricia Luccardi shares her journey from a New York makeup artist to a holistic health advocate. She discusses her passion for women’s health, natural hormones, and toxin-free living. Patricia explains how her career shift deepened her understanding of endocrine health and its importance. She offers practical tips to reduce exposure to harmful toxins, balance hormones naturally, and support breast health. Her insights provide valuable guidance for navigating today’s toxin-filled world. Tune in to learn simple, effective ways to protect and improve your overall wellness.

Key Topics:

> Environmental Toxins and Endocrine DisruptorsThermography vs. Mammograms
> A radiation-free method for breast health screening
> Practical Tips for Toxin-Free Living
> Sulforaphane and Detoxification
> The role of vitamin D, iodine, and selenium in overall health

Key Takeaways:

Reducing Toxin Exposure: Environmental toxins, especially those found in plastics (like BPA) and petrochemicals, mimic natural hormones and can disrupt our endocrine system. Simple lifestyle changes, such as using glass containers, choosing BPA-free products, and opting for natural skincare, can significantly reduce toxin exposure.

Detoxification and Hormonal Balance: Sulforaphane, a compound found in broccoli seeds, is highlighted as an effective way to detoxify the body and support hormonal balance by clearing harmful estrogens from the system.

Self-Education is Key: Patricia underscores the importance of being informed about the products we use in our daily lives, from cleaning supplies to cosmetics, and encourages listeners to consult resources like the Environmental Working Group (EWG) to find safer, non-toxic options.


Patricia's Bio: Patricia Luccardi, CTT, LMT, CNMT, is a passionate advocate for holistic women’s health and wellness. She empowers women by educating them about the dangers of environmental toxins and endocrine disruptors, offering natural protocols—like diet, supplements, and lifestyle changes—that deliver real results, often confirmed through thermographic imaging. With certifications in Thermographic Technology, Clinical Massage Therapy, and Whole Health Education™, she promotes natural healing. Patricia practices in NYC and lives in the charming village of Chatham in the Hudson Valley.

Get in Touch with Patricia:
Website: patricialuccardi.com
Breast Protection Detox Protocol Program

Resources Mentioned:
EWG (Environmental Working Group)
Grass Roots Health
Dr. Lindsey Berkson (Author of Safe Hormones Smart Women) 

If you enjoyed listening to this episode, please share it with others if you think they would also enjoy it. Thank you!

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Website: inspiredlivingforwomen.com

In Episode 4, I interview fitness expert, Rita Jenkins-Wolcott. Her journey from ballet and dance to becoming an influential figure in fitness is truly inspiring. Rita candidly shares her struggles with body image within the rigid dance standards and how discovering strength training at 47 became a pivotal moment in her mindset and career. Her story is a powerful testament to resilience and the importance of embracing one's strengths.

In this episode, we delve into essential fitness strategies for women over 50, highlighting the transformative benefits of strength training and holistic health. Rita discusses the shift from traditional fitness models to personalized online training, addressing common myths about weightlifting and concerns about "bulking up." These insights are particularly relevant for those navigating perimenopause and menopause, offering practical advice for maintaining health and vitality.

Listeners will learn how personalized coaching and nutritional guidance can empower women to reach their fitness goals. Rita emphasizes the importance of nutrition, rest, and recovery, providing a well-rounded approach to health. Her insights are sure to motivate anyone seeking a healthier lifestyle, no matter their age.


Rita's Bio: Rita Jenkins-Wolcott is a menopause fitness specialist, personal trainer, certified nutrition coach, and a former fitness studio owner. She is also a former licensed massage therapist and professional dancer and has over four decades of teaching experience in dance, movement, and fitness. She is the Founder of Living Bolder (an online fitness and wellness company) and creator of Bolder BARRE.

RITA specializes in creating at-home fitness programs designed for the unique needs of women over 50, in perimenopause and beyond, to help them build muscle, burn fat, regain their fitness, strength, and energy - and get lasting results without excessive cardio, restrictive diets, or a huge time commitment.


Connect With Rita

Website: livingbolder.com/
Grab Rita's Free Week of Workouts
Book a Discovery Call


Next Episode Preview: In our upcoming episode, we’ll feature the inspiring story of another remarkable woman who is making a significant impact in the world. Don’t miss it!

If you enjoyed listening to this episode, please share it with others if you think they would also enjoy it. Thank you!

✨ Begin Your Realignment Reset — A simple, 7-day guided reset to help you pause, get clear, and realign with what matters most. Perfect for women 45+ who are ready for a fresh start.
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Website: inspiredlivingforwomen.com

In the latest episode of the Inspiring Journeys podcast, Tara Murphy shares her powerful story of resilience and transformation. With a lifelong passion for horses nurtured by her aunt, Tara developed a strong sense of determination early on. This passion seamlessly transitioned into her professional life, where she spent over 26 years at a credit union, rising from a night computer operator to chief information officer. Her adaptability and commitment to fostering a supportive work environment were pivotal to her success.

A major turning point came when Tara decided to leave her stable career to launch a consulting business focused on executive coaching and leadership development. However, her journey faced a significant hurdle when she was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer. This experience tested her resilience and deepened her appreciation for empowerment in both her personal and professional life. As she navigated her treatment, Tara found a renewed sense of purpose, illustrating how strength can arise from adversity.

In her leadership programs, Tara leverages the emotional intelligence lessons learned from horses to provide unique insights into personal and professional development. She plans to expand her services through group training sessions and webinars, making leadership training more accessible. Her journey serves as a powerful reminder of how passion and resilience can help us overcome life's challenges, encouraging listeners to celebrate her insights and the strength of determination and positivity.

Tara's Bio: Tara L. Murphy is the founder of Tara Murphy Leadership, a coaching practice dedicated to empowering emerging leaders and executives through emotional intelligence and business acumen. With over 27 years of experience in the credit union industry, including executive roles such as Chief Information Officer (CIO) and Chief Operations Officer (COO), Tara brings a wealth of knowledge to her coaching programs. Certified in EQ-i 2.0, she integrates emotional intelligence principles into her holistic approach to leadership development. A cancer survivor, Tara draws from her personal journey and her lifelong work with horses to inspire resilience and compassion in leaders. Through her engaging content and coaching sessions, she aims to cultivate good leaders who prioritize team well-being and practice servant leadership.


Get in Touch with Tara

Website: taramurphyleadership.com/
LinkedIn: Connect on LinkedIn
Book a Free Consultation


Next Episode Preview: In our next episode, we’ll share the story of another  incredible woman who is making a difference in the world. Stay tuned!

If you enjoyed listening to this episode, please share it with others if you think they would also enjoy it. Thank you!

✨ Begin Your Realignment Reset — A simple, 7-day guided reset to help you pause, get clear, and realign with what matters most. Perfect for women 45+ who are ready for a fresh start.
Get Started Here →


Website: inspiredlivingforwomen.com

Discover the inspiring journey of Debbie Menke, who turned her dreams into reality by founding Spa-Dee-Dah, a day spa in rural Iowa, from an old paint store. Join me, Lauri Wakefield, as Debbie shares how she created a sensory-rich environment and rose to become the national sales manager for Jane Iredale Cosmetics, leading a team of 70 women with her passion for resonant spaces.

Debbie’s story is one of adaptability and growth, transitioning from the aesthetics industry to finance to empower women with financial knowledge. Her successful tenure at Edward Jones and authorship of a financial literacy book highlight her commitment to continuous learning. Despite her success in finance, her passion for aesthetics drew her back, illustrating her relentless pursuit of fulfilling work.

In the final chapter, we explore Debbie's creative endeavors, including her book "Brand Edit AI," which guides professionals in the aesthetics industry on leveraging AI to refresh their brands. Her marketing agency, BrandEditai, offers innovative strategies for business enhancement. Tune in for Debbie's insights on brand identity, creative collaboration, and the synergy between human design types, providing valuable knowledge for aligning brands with their core essence.

Debbie's Bio: Deb Menke is your trailblazing, go-to creative powerhouse and AI-loving sales maven with a knack for helping med spa owners and aesthetic entrepreneurs find their glow. With years in the industry (and the platinum hair to prove it), Deb’s all about blending smart strategies with good vibes to ensure your brand stands out.

As the host of BrandEdit.ai, Deb’s mission is to keep things fun, fresh, and full of AI magic. She believes business should feel more like a creative brainstorm than a stiff meeting. You can count on her to dish out real talk and killer tips that are easy to understand and even easier to put into action.

If you’re here to refresh your brand, get your social media popping, or work a little AI magic into your business, Deb’s ready to show you how—all while keeping things light and fun.

Get in Touch with Debbie

Website: brandedit.ai
LinkedIn: Connect on LinkedIn
Podcast: Listen Now
Download Debbie's Free Branding Guide Here!

Next Episode Preview: Stay tuned for our next episode, where we’ll dive into the journey of another incredible woman who’s making waves in her industry!

If you enjoyed listening to this episode, please share it with others if you think they would also enjoy it. Thank you!

✨ Begin Your Realignment Reset — A simple, 7-day guided reset to help you pause, get clear, and realign with what matters most. Perfect for women 45+ who are ready for a fresh start.
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Website: inspiredlivingforwomen.com

Host: Lauri Wakefield
Guest: Leslee Wegleitner

Tune In To: Discover how to embrace change, find new purpose, and thrive after 50. Leslee’s inspiring journey is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to start fresh, and that life after 50 can be just as rewarding and meaningful as any other stage.

Whether you're navigating your 50s or preparing for the road ahead, Leslee’s story offers both inspiration and practical tips for approaching midlife with grace and confidence. From focusing on your health to achieving financial independence, this episode is packed with insights and encouragement for women ready to flourish in this exciting new chapter.

In this episode of the Inspiring Journeys podcast, Lauri Wakefield talks with Leslee Wegleitner, who shares her uplifting story of embracing change, finding new purpose, and improving wellness after 50. Together, they explore the emotional, physical, and financial challenges of midlife, and how to turn these obstacles into opportunities for growth and renewal.


Key Takeaways:

• It’s never too late to pursue a new career or passion.
• Balancing your hormones and overall wellness is crucial to thriving in midlife.
• Financial independence empowers women to take control of their futures.
• Embracing change brings new opportunities and freedom after 50.

Noteworthy Quotes:

"Starting over at 58 wasn’t easy, but it allowed me to reconnect with my passion and focus on my well-being."

"Understanding hormone health is crucial for navigating the emotional and physical changes that come with aging."

"Financial independence is a lifelong journey, and it’s never too late to start planning for your future."

If you enjoyed listening to this episode, please share it with others if you think they would also enjoy it. Thank you!

✨ Begin Your Realignment Reset — A simple, 7-day guided reset to help you pause, get clear, and realign with what matters most. Perfect for women 45+ who are ready for a fresh start.
Get Started Here →


Website: inspiredlivingforwomen.com