In part two, Lizzie and I discuss our childhood experiences, coping mechanisms, and the impact of family dynamics. We delve into the complexities of relationships, the understanding of dissociative disorders, and the importance of therapeutic journeys in healing.  

I bring up the challenges of accepting joy from a perspective of fearing certain emotions that I was not allowed to have and the unfortunate familiar feelings of anxiety and traumatic situations. We also highlight the importance of self-care, and the normalization and need for radical acceptance in the healing process.

“Dissociative disorders are mental health conditions that involve experiencing a loss of connection between thoughts, memories, feelings, surroundings, behavior and identity. These conditions include escape from reality in ways that are not wanted and not healthy. This causes problems in managing everyday life. Symptoms depend in part on the type of dissociative disorder and can range from memory loss to disconnected identities. Times of stress can worsen symptoms for a while, making them easier to see”. - Mayo Clinic

Lizzie is a freelance author and is currently working on her memoir.

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Connect on Instagram for a behind the scenes look of what it really means to BLOOM in MID LIFE --> @livinginmidbloom

April Pruitt; greeting card creator, writer, podcaster, and professional nerd, dives into honest conversations about her personal journey along with a variety of guests whose own stories can help cultivate a community of support and understanding. We all have are own struggles and ways of coping. April reminds us that no one is walking this path alone. Get ready to bloom!

My guest, Lizzie, and I have something in common. We’re both in one of those clubs that you don’t wanna be in but you are?  We both have dissociative disorders. Now neither of us like the term “Disorder”.  It sounds like something is wrong with us. When in fact, we were responding to trauma from our childhoods. So we prefer the term “Response”. But to limit any confusion I’ll continue to use “disorder” to describe our diagnosis. For me, it’s Dissociative Amnesia. For Lizzie, it’s Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID). 

Lizzie and I share our personal experiences about the impact of childhood trauma on our lives and our journeys of self-discovery through our own curiosity and through therapy. 

“Dissociative disorders are mental health conditions that involve experiencing a loss of connection between thoughts, memories, feelings, surroundings, behavior and identity. These conditions include escape from reality in ways that are not wanted and not healthy. This causes problems in managing everyday life. Symptoms depend in part on the type of dissociative disorder and can range from memory loss to disconnected identities. Times of stress can worsen symptoms for a while, making them easier to see”. - Mayo Clinic

Lizzie is a freelance author and is currently working on her memoir.

We want to hear from you! Send us a text and share your thoughts.

Connect on Instagram for a behind the scenes look of what it really means to BLOOM in MID LIFE --> @livinginmidbloom

April Pruitt; greeting card creator, writer, podcaster, and professional nerd, dives into honest conversations about her personal journey along with a variety of guests whose own stories can help cultivate a community of support and understanding. We all have are own struggles and ways of coping. April reminds us that no one is walking this path alone. Get ready to bloom!

Hi Mid-Bloomers! For the first time (and not the last!) we published a video episode this week! Click on the links below to watch on YouTube or Spotify.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=unCS1k_UngU

https://open.spotify.com/episode/7gEcqubQiH0tfEN7s8mGk4

In this episode of the Living in Mid-Bloom podcast, I engage in a conversation with my friend, Karen Carlson, about the complexities of parenting adult children. Karen shares insights from her book, 'Peacefully Parenting Adult Children,' emphasizing the need for grace and understanding in navigating these relationships. Karen talks about the importance of communication and understanding while navigating the shifting dynamics of family life. Our discussion also touches on the emotional challenges parents face and the significance of maintaining connections despite distance and changing roles.

Karen is a mother, grandmother, and creative entrepreneur with over 35 years of wellness expertise. In her book, Karen shares practical advice and heartfelt insights on fostering peace and joy in family relationships. An advocate for stress-free living, she blends life lessons with her holistic approach to wellness. Learn more about Karen and her work at Be Well and Renew.  

The first person to request a copy of Karen’s book will receive it free including shipping costs by sending us a text with your name and address. (Click below link) 

We want to hear from you! Send us a text and share your thoughts.

Connect on Instagram for a behind the scenes look of what it really means to BLOOM in MID LIFE --> @livinginmidbloom

April Pruitt; greeting card creator, writer, podcaster, and professional nerd, dives into honest conversations about her personal journey along with a variety of guests whose own stories can help cultivate a community of support and understanding. We all have are own struggles and ways of coping. April reminds us that no one is walking this path alone. Get ready to bloom!

Nostalgia is in the air as I reflect on holiday memories from Thanksgivings and Christmases past. Fun family traditions, annoying family members, the importance of gratitude, and the love my parents instilled in me during the holidays.I reminisce about my childhood experiences (I was kind of a brat!) and the bittersweet nature of the season. Sending love to you and yours. 

 

We want to hear from you! Send us a text and share your thoughts.

Connect on Instagram for a behind the scenes look of what it really means to BLOOM in MID LIFE --> @livinginmidbloom

April Pruitt; greeting card creator, writer, podcaster, and professional nerd, dives into honest conversations about her personal journey along with a variety of guests whose own stories can help cultivate a community of support and understanding. We all have are own struggles and ways of coping. April reminds us that no one is walking this path alone. Get ready to bloom!

In this episode of Living in Mid-bloom, I’m joined by Medicare Broker Stacey Haberstroh to discuss the upcoming changes to Medicare in 2025 and breakdown the key updates. Open Enrollment runs through December 7th.

• Understanding Original Medicare vs. Medicare Advantage
• The Role of Medicare Supplements
• Exploring Medicare Advantage Plans
• Changes in Medicare Part D and Prescription Drug Plans

You can contact Medicare directly at  http://medicare.gov or call Call 1-800-MEDICARE

Reach out to Stacey at the following contacts;
314-517-4073
[email protected]
www.seniorinsuranceconcepts.com | 
Stacey is licensed in the states of Missouri, Illinois, Florida, Arizona, and South Carolina.

We want to hear from you! Send us a text and share your thoughts.

Connect on Instagram for a behind the scenes look of what it really means to BLOOM in MID LIFE --> @livinginmidbloom

April Pruitt; greeting card creator, writer, podcaster, and professional nerd, dives into honest conversations about her personal journey along with a variety of guests whose own stories can help cultivate a community of support and understanding. We all have are own struggles and ways of coping. April reminds us that no one is walking this path alone. Get ready to bloom!

In this episode of Living in Mid-bloom, I speak with Linda Weeks Di Filippo, a LSW, MSW, and experienced therapist. Linda shares her incredible journey from a career in finance to a deep passion for mental health, working in Community Mental Health and in private practice. We dive into her insights on overcoming trauma, healing from past wounds, and finding the right therapeutic support. Linda also discusses practical advice on finding a therapist, the importance of treatment plans, and how healing trauma can transform lives. This episode is full of wisdom and hope for those on their own healing journey.

You can find Linda at the following:

www.buddtherapy.com

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindadifilippo/

We want to hear from you! Send us a text and share your thoughts.

Connect on Instagram for a behind the scenes look of what it really means to BLOOM in MID LIFE --> @livinginmidbloom

April Pruitt; greeting card creator, writer, podcaster, and professional nerd, dives into honest conversations about her personal journey along with a variety of guests whose own stories can help cultivate a community of support and understanding. We all have are own struggles and ways of coping. April reminds us that no one is walking this path alone. Get ready to bloom!

In this episode of Living in Mid-Bloom, I dive into the complex topic of people-pleasing. Together with my guest, Petra van Deijl, we explore why so many of us fall into the habit of putting others before ourselves. From childhood conditioning and fear of conflict to past trauma and guilt, people-pleasing can often feel like a trap that’s hard to escape. But there is hope! We also discuss practical steps to reclaim our sense of self and create healthier, more fulfilling relationships.

Three Ideas to Avoid the People-Pleasing Trap:

1. Set Clear Boundaries: Define and communicate your personal boundaries, and practice saying “no” without guilt. Remember, saying no is a complete sentence.
2. Prioritize Self-Care: Put your own needs first by scheduling regular time for activities that nurture and recharge you. When you prioritize yourself, others will follow suit.
3. Reflect and Ask ‘Why?’ When you feel the urge to please, pause and ask, “Am I doing this out of genuine care or fear of disapproval?” Understanding your motivation can help you make more authentic choices.

Petra van Deijl is an International Certified Life Coach & Breath Work Practitioner, and,  works with clients from all over the world. Petra specializes in addressing narcissistic and emotional abuse within seemingly loving relationships. 

Please feel free to get in touch with Petra at her website or send her an email:

Petravandeijl.com
[email protected]

We want to hear from you! Send us a text and share your thoughts.

Connect on Instagram for a behind the scenes look of what it really means to BLOOM in MID LIFE --> @livinginmidbloom

April Pruitt; greeting card creator, writer, podcaster, and professional nerd, dives into honest conversations about her personal journey along with a variety of guests whose own stories can help cultivate a community of support and understanding. We all have are own struggles and ways of coping. April reminds us that no one is walking this path alone. Get ready to bloom!

Experiencing a panic attack can be very frightening. And it can be for many reasons. In my case it's the fear of reaching my dreams and experiencing the joy I deserve. When you grow up in a traumatic environment, you're used to pain, anxiety, and depression. It's the joy that I'm now learning to accept. 

         Have you ever had a panic attack? 
         Did you understand the core reason?
         How did you take care of yourself?  

• Panic attacks can be managed by being present, recognizing the signs, and, paying attention to your body and mind.
• Emotional well-being requires acknowledging and processing your feelings rather than pushing them away.

My Coaches!
Book a Chat with Sam
Sam Laliberte/Motivational Speaker, Event Host, Serial Entrepreneur, Coach, Author
Whatsyourfree.com

Book a chat with Annamarie
Annamarie Yang/Voiceover Artist
www.annamarieyang.com

We want to hear from you! Send us a text and share your thoughts.

Connect on Instagram for a behind the scenes look of what it really means to BLOOM in MID LIFE --> @livinginmidbloom

April Pruitt; greeting card creator, writer, podcaster, and professional nerd, dives into honest conversations about her personal journey along with a variety of guests whose own stories can help cultivate a community of support and understanding. We all have are own struggles and ways of coping. April reminds us that no one is walking this path alone. Get ready to bloom!

Lisa Jo has overcome immense challenges, including childhood violence, severe addictions, and managing Bipolar I and Complex PTSD. With a deep determination to know herself and inspire others, she shares her journey of resilience and hope, showing that even in the darkest times, there are always bright possibilities for the future. 

• Lisa Jo is the Author of THE PIT OF DESPAIR- HOW GOD PRAYER AND THE 12 STEPS SAVED MY LIFE FROM ADDITION.
• She is the Founder/Mentor Coach of Hell to Happiness Coaching
• Sign up for a complementary 20-minute coaching session with Lisa Jo at:        https://calendly.com/lisajobarr

"Believe in yourself.  Anything is possible." - Lisa Jo Barr

We want to hear from you! Send us a text and share your thoughts.

Connect on Instagram for a behind the scenes look of what it really means to BLOOM in MID LIFE --> @livinginmidbloom

April Pruitt; greeting card creator, writer, podcaster, and professional nerd, dives into honest conversations about her personal journey along with a variety of guests whose own stories can help cultivate a community of support and understanding. We all have are own struggles and ways of coping. April reminds us that no one is walking this path alone. Get ready to bloom!

How self love can transform the relationship with yourself, loved ones, and finding inner peace.

Hello mid-bloomers! I've missed you. We've got a great episode today but I start  with an update on where I am emotionally, which is in a much better space. And, I am always grateful.

I interviewed Life Coach Alia Jamal who helps professional women unlock their deepest levels of inner peace through self-love. We discuss Alia's background as an immigrant from Pakistan, her journey of self-discovery and embracing her religion.

Alia shares:

• Her experience of finding love, going through a divorce, and, coming out on the other side.
• Healing from suicidal ideation and depression
• Accepting a new life calling and becoming a life coach

CHAPTERS
01:25 Healing and Embracing Self-Love
19:38 Journey of Self-Discovery and Embracing Identity
22:24 Finding Love and Going Through Divorce
30:06 The Power of Self-Love in Transforming Relationships
44:10 Supportive Communities and Mentors in Personal Growth

Please check out Alia’s website below;
www.aliajamalcoaching.com

Join Alia’s weekly free workshop;
bit.ly/joinlovecircle

We want to hear from you! Send us a text and share your thoughts.

Connect on Instagram for a behind the scenes look of what it really means to BLOOM in MID LIFE --> @livinginmidbloom

April Pruitt; greeting card creator, writer, podcaster, and professional nerd, dives into honest conversations about her personal journey along with a variety of guests whose own stories can help cultivate a community of support and understanding. We all have are own struggles and ways of coping. April reminds us that no one is walking this path alone. Get ready to bloom!