Midlife AF Podcast

Midlife AF Podcast

By Emma GilmourSociety & CultureHealth & FitnessMental HealthEducationSelf-Improvement
Download on the App Store

Midlife AF Podcast episodes

  • #60 Why Would I?

    In this episode, I'm talking about reframing your relationship with alcohol from one of fear and resistance to making choices in the present moment.

    I'll explore why we drink to escape uncomfortable feelings give you strategies for managing stress and self-care during the busy holiday season without relying on alcohol.

    Episode Highlights: 

    • Drinking is often a way to escape uncomfortable feelings rather than deal with them in a healthy way
    • Focus on why you want to drink in the present moment rather than worrying about future consequences
    • Overcommitting and not prioritizing self-care leads to increased stress and exhaustion, setting yourself up to drink more
    • Take a 30-day break from alcohol before the holidays to gain clarity and make better choices
    • Delegate, simplify activities, and learn to say no to commitments that don't truly matter

      • RESOURCES

      • Access Emma's Summer Success Bundle here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/summersuccessbundle
      • Join Emma's VIP ELITE experience here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/offers/k7AXMNPG
      • Join Emma's Be The Lighthouse membership here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/bethelighthouse
      • Get Emma's NEW Visualisation audio download at https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/northstarvisualisation
      • Emma's Awareness worksheets for people wanting to prepare prior to taking a break from drinking or reduce their drinking by being more mindful about what and why they drink https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/awareness-worksheets-opt-in
      • Emma's 5 Day Alcohol Reset for people looking to take a quick reset https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/fivedayreset
      • Join The Self-Paced Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment at https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/aae
      • Learn more about Emma Gilmour at: www.hoperisingcoaching.com
      • Follow Emma Gilmour on insta @hoperisingcoaching

        • Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/midlife-af-podcast/id1649673705

        26 min
      • #59 Burnt Out AF

        Viv Dawes is an autism advocate and author who specialises in autistic burnout.

        In this conversation, she discusses her experience helping parents of autistic children experiencing severe burnout and shares insights into the causes and effects of burnout. She also addresses the lack of understanding from professionals and how the education system can better support neurodivergent students.

        Episode Highlights:

        • Autistic burnout is more than just exhaustion—it can involve hallucinations, mania-like symptoms, and feeling stuck in "fight or flight" mode.
        • Masking and constantly shaping oneself to fit an non-neurodivergent world can be profoundly damaging and a leading cause of burnout.
        • Burnout recovery is a journey that can take years as one resets and repairs lost skills and executive functioning.

          • RESOURCES

          • Access Emma's Summer Success Bundle here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/summersuccessbundle
          • Join Emma's VIP ELITE experience here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/offers/k7AXMNPG
          • Join Emma's Be The Lighthouse membership here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/bethelighthouse
          • Get Emma's NEW Visualisation audio download at https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/northstarvisualisation
          • Emma's Awareness worksheets for people wanting to prepare prior to taking a break from drinking or reduce their drinking by being more mindful about what and why they drink https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/awareness-worksheets-opt-in
          • Emma's 5 Day Alcohol Reset for people looking to take a quick reset https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/fivedayreset
          • Join The Self-Paced Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment at https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/aae
          • Learn more about Viv Dawes at: https://www.autisticadvocate.co.uk/
          • Learn more about Emma Gilmour at: www.hoperisingcoaching.com
          • Follow Emma Gilmour on insta @hoperisingcoaching

            • Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/midlife-af-podcast/id1649673705

             

            42 min
          • #58 Authentic AF

            In this episode, I'm discussing personality types and attachment theory. I share how our personality types can be influenced by our upbringing and environment, and how certain personality types can make embracing an alcohol-free life more difficult.

            I'm also giving you some tips for managing the upcoming holiday season without relying on alcohol.

            Episode Highlights: 

            • Personality types are adaptations formed from our environment, not fixed traits
            • Perfectionism and people-pleasing often stem from feelings of not being good enough
            • Busyness and productivity are rewarded but can prevent self-care and processing emotions
            • The present moment is where fulfillment is found, not in achievements or what others think
            • Staying present and prioritising self-care during the busy holidays
              • RESOURCES
                1. Join Emma's webinar "Why Successful Women Drink" here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/webinar-whysuccessfulwomendrink 
                2. Access Emma's Summer Success Bundle here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/summersuccessbundle
                3. Join Emma's VIP ELITE experience here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/offers/k7AXMNPG
                4. Join Emma's Be The Lighthouse membership here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/bethelighthouse 
                5. Get Emma's NEW Visualisation audio download at https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/northstarvisualisation 
                6. Emma's Awareness worksheets for people wanting to prepare prior to taking a break from drinking or reduce their drinking by being more mindful about what and why they drink https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/awareness-worksheets-opt-in
                7. Emma's 5 Day Alcohol Reset for people looking to take a quick reset https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/fivedayreset
                8. Join The Self-Paced Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment at https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/aae

                  9. Learn more about Emma Gilmour at: www.hoperisingcoaching.com
                  Follow Emma Gilmour on insta @hoperisingcoaching

                  Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/midlife-af-podcast/id1649673705

                  36 min
                9. #57 Sensory AF

                  In this episode, ADHD coach Sharon Collon shares her top tips for enjoying social events without relying on alcohol.

                  She discusses strategies for managing sensory overload and social anxiety, including visualising your ideal night, pacing your drinking with a sensible friend, and setting social challenges to stay engaged.

                  Episode Highlights:

                  • Visualise how you want your night to go before arriving to set intentions
                  • Pace your drinking by watching someone you perceive as a "sensible" drinker
                  • Bring fidget toys or do breathing exercises to manage sensory overload
                  • Set social challenges like getting photos with people to stay engaged
                  • Know your limits and set expectations for leaving to avoid feeling trapped

                    RESOURCES
                    1. Access Emma's Summer Success Bundle here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/summersuccessbundle
                    2. Join Emma's VIP ELITE experience here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/offers/k7AXMNPG
                    3. Join Emma's Be The Lighthouse membership here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/bethelighthouse 
                    4. Get Emma's NEW Visualisation audio download at https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/northstarvisualisation 
                    5. Emma's Awareness worksheets for people wanting to prepare prior to taking a break from drinking or reduce their drinking by being more mindful about what and why they drink https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/awareness-worksheets-opt-in
                    6. Emma's 5 Day Alcohol Reset for people looking to take a quick reset https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/fivedayreset
                    7. Join The Self-Paced Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment at https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/aae


                      8. Learn more about Sharon Collon at: https://www.thefunctionalfamily.com/ 
                      Follow Emma Gilmour on insta @thefunctionalfamily
                      Learn more about Emma Gilmour at: www.hoperisingcoaching.com
                      Follow Emma Gilmour on insta @hoperisingcoaching

                      Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/midlife-af-podcast/id1649673705

                      42 min
                    8. #56 Free AF

                      In this episode, I'm discussing the difference between being preoccupied with alcohol vs finding freedom from it.

                      I'm talking about about how our triggers stem from unmet needs and big emotions, and how learning to regulate our nervous system and be present with difficult feelings is key to long-term change.

                      Episode Highlights:

                      • Most struggle with alcohol for years before finding freedom - be kind to yourself wherever you're at
                      • Cravings are a sign we're in discomfort and need to learn how to soothe ourselves
                      • Suppressing feelings doesn't work - we must learn to listen to ourselves with compassion
                      • Alcohol numbs us from life's ups and downs, but being present with emotions is healthier long-term
                      • Reducing "fight or flight" allows our brain to learn and grow in new ways.

                        • RESOURCES

                        1. Join Emma's VIP ELITE experience here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/offers/k7AXMNPG
                        2. Join Emma's Be The Lighthouse membership here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/bethelighthouse 
                        3. Get Emma's NEW Visualisation audio download at https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/northstarvisualisation 
                        4. Join Emma for our upcoming webinar on October 22: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/ditchthewinewitch 
                        5. Emma's Awareness worksheets for people wanting to prepare prior to taking a break from drinking or reduce their drinking by being more mindful about what and why they drink https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/awareness-worksheets-opt-in
                        6. Emma's 5 Day Alcohol Reset for people looking to take a quick reset https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/fivedayreset
                        7. Join The Self-Paced Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment at https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/aae

                          8. Learn more about Emma Gilmour at: www.hoperisingcoaching.com
                          Follow Emma Gilmour on insta @hoperisingcoaching

                          Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/midlife-af-podcast/id1649673705

                          34 min
                        8. #55 Revolutionary AF

                          I'm sitting down with autism advocate Jenny Loughran to discuss moving beyond a pathology model of understanding autism.

                          Jenny shares her journey of late diagnosis and how advocating for her son led to a deeper understanding of herself.

                          We discuss the importance of neurodiversity-affirming language and creating spaces where neurodivergent people can truly be themselves.

                          Episode Highlights 

                          • The difference between pathology and neurodiversity models of understanding autism
                          • How late diagnosis can lead to "neurodivergent awakenings" in parents and themselves
                          • Choosing empowering language that validates neurodivergent experiences
                          • Creating communities and systems that embrace neurodiversity instead of suppressing differences

                            • RESOURCES

                            1. Join Emma's VIP ELITE experience here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/offers/k7AXMNPG
                            2. Join Emma's Be The Lighthouse membership here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/bethelighthouse 
                            3. Get Emma's NEW Visualisation audio download at https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/northstarvisualisation 
                            4. Join Emma for our upcoming webinar on October 22: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/ditchthewinewitch 
                            5. Emma's Awareness worksheets for people wanting to prepare prior to taking a break from drinking or reduce their drinking by being more mindful about what and why they drink https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/awareness-worksheets-opt-in
                            6. Emma's 5 Day Alcohol Reset for people looking to take a quick reset https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/fivedayreset
                            7. Join The Self-Paced Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment at https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/aae

                              8. Learn more about Emma Gilmour at: www.hoperisingcoaching.com
                              Follow Emma Gilmour on insta @hoperisingcoaching

                              Follow Jenny Loughran on insta https://www.instagram.com/jennyloughran4/ 

                              Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/midlife-af-podcast/id1649673705

                              59 min
                            8. #54 Radical AF

                              In this episode, I'm talking with special guest Kristy Forbes about neurodivergence, autism, and the dangers of pushing through our limits.

                              Kristy shares her experience of being diagnosed late in life with autism and PDA, and how that helped her understand her children's needs.

                              We also discuss the conditioning to be productive and compliant, and how that leads to burnout.

                              Episode highlights:

                              • Neurodivergence is not a defect, our brains are protecting us in sensitive ways
                              • We are conditioned from a young age to suppress our true selves
                              • Pushing through can lead to burnout, we need to listen to our bodies' limits
                              • Giving children and ourselves autonomy over our experiences reduces stress
                              • Stepping away from societal expectations takes courage but is liberating

                                • RESOURCES

                                1. Get Emma's NEW Visualisation audio download at https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/northstarvisualisation 
                                2. Join Emma for our upcoming webinar on October 22: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/ditchthewinewitch 
                                3. Emma's Awareness worksheets for people wanting to prepare prior to taking a break from drinking or reduce their drinking by being more mindful about what and why they drink https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/awareness-worksheets-opt-in
                                4. Emma's 5 Day Alcohol Reset for people looking to take a quick reset https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/fivedayreset
                                5. Sober October is here - join The Self-Paced Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment at https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/aae

                                  6. Learn more about Emma Gilmour at: www.hoperisingcoaching.com
                                  Follow Emma Gilmour on insta @hoperisingcoaching

                                  Learn more about Kristy Forbes at: https://www.kristyforbes.com.au/ 
                                  Follow Kristy Forbes on insta @_kristyforbes

                                  Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/midlife-af-podcast/id1649673705

                                   

                                  51 min
                                6. #53 Intentional AF

                                  On this week's episode of Midlife AF, I'm diving deep into the transformative power of intention in midlife. We're tackling the topic of alcohol freedom, self-awareness, creativity, and more. No guests today, just me sharing insights and experiences that can help you navigate this incredible journey called midlife.

                                  Episode Highlights Include:

                                  1. Intention and alcohol freedom in midlife

                                  ⭐️ The significance of intention in midlife.
                                  ⭐️ Reflecting on alcohol consumption in our journey.

                                  2. Visualisation and goal-setting

                                  ⭐️ My personal journey with "The Secrets" and personal development.
                                  ⭐️ Using a visualisation tool for personal growth.
                                  ⭐️ The role of imagination and intuition in your AF journey

                                  3. Neurodiversity, trauma, and self-awareness

                                  ⭐️ Emotionally intelligent parenting and body-centered therapy.
                                  ⭐️ Learning to be with oneself safely and understanding personal power.

                                  4. Female empowerment, alcohol and relationships

                                  ⭐️ Addressing the stigma around women's experiences during perimenopause and menopause.
                                  ⭐️ Setting intentions for a fulfilling life without relying on alcohol.
                                  ⭐️ Balancing personal well-being and family responsibilities.

                                  5. Harnessing creativity and potential in midlife

                                  ⭐️ My journey toward self-discovery and creativity through alcohol-free activities.
                                  ⭐️ Unlocking infinite potential through intention and abundance.
                                  ⭐️ Encouragement to embrace your emotions and find your true north.

                                  Join me on this journey through midlife as we explore the power of intention, creativity, and breaking free from the hold of alcohol. It's all about living life to the fullest and embracing the incredible potential within you.

                                  Remember, you're Midlife AF, and you've got this!

                                  Resources:

                                  1. Get Emma's NEW Visualisation audio download at https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/northstarvisualisation 
                                  2. Join Emma and a brilliant group of people at The Pub With No Booze for their famous tasting event on October 14 - https://www.meetup.com/untoxicated-booze-free-fun-and-friendship-melbourne/events/295945313/?_xtd=gqFyqTMwMTUzMDg4N6Fwo2FwaQ%253D%253D&from=ref 
                                  3. Emma's Awareness worksheets for people wanting to prepare prior to taking a break from drinking or reduce their drinking by being more mindful about what and why they drink https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/awareness-worksheets-opt-in
                                  4. Emma's 5 Day Alcohol Reset for people looking to take a quick reset https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/fivedayreset
                                  5. Sober October is here - join The Self-Paced Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment at https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/aae

                                    6. Learn more about Emma Gilmour at: www.hoperisingcoaching.com
                                    Follow Emma Gilmour on insta @hoperisingcoaching

                                    Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/midlife-af-podcast/id1649673705



                                    27 min
                                  6. #52 Groovy AF

                                    Join me on this week's episode of Midlife AF as I sit down with the incredible DJ Lady Langers.

                                    Discover the powerful story of how music and authenticity transformed Michelle's life as she embraced an alcohol-free journey.

                                    Together, we discuss the importance of community, connection, and the joy of dancing through midlife. Get ready for an uplifting conversation filled with insights and inspiration.

                                    Episode Takeaways:

                                    • Learn how Michelle, DJ Lady Langers, found her passion for music from a young age and turned it into a creative career.
                                    • Explore the role of authenticity in Michelle's life and how going alcohol-free allowed her to truly be herself.
                                    • Understand the vital importance of community and the incredible support network within the alcohol-free community.
                                    • Discover how alcohol-free drinks can normalise socialising without alcohol. Gain insights into the concept of "vibrational alignment" and how Michelle's energy and buzz factor drive her life.
                                    • Join the excitement of the upcoming event "Pub with No Booze," where DJ Lady Langers will be spinning tunes, and alcohol-free options abound.
                                    • Find inspiration in Michelle's journey to live authentically and embrace the joy of midlife without alcohol.

                                      • Don't miss this episode full of positivity, connection, and the uplifting power of music in midlife.

                                      Resources:

                                      1. Join Emma and a brilliant group of people at The Pub With No Booze for their famous tasting event on October 14 - https://www.meetup.com/untoxicated-booze-free-fun-and-friendship-melbourne/events/295945313/?_xtd=gqFyqTMwMTUzMDg4N6Fwo2FwaQ%253D%253D&from=ref 
                                      2. Emma's Awareness worksheets for people wanting to prepare prior to taking a break from drinking or reduce their drinking by being more mindful about what and why they drink https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/awareness-worksheets-opt-in
                                      3. Emma's 5 Day Alcohol Reset for people looking to take a quick reset https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/fivedayreset
                                      4. Sober October is here - join The Self-Paced Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment at https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/aae

                                        5. Follow Lady Lamgers on insta @ladylangers
                                        Follow The Pub With No Booze on insta @pubwithnobooze
                                        Learn more about Emma Gilmour at: www.hoperisingcoaching.com
                                        Follow Emma Gilmour on insta @hoperisingcoaching


                                        Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating here: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/midlife-af-podcast/id1649673705

                                        35 min
                                      5. #51 Publican AF

                                        In this episode, I had the privilege of sitting down with Anthony Hammond, a pub owner from Melbourne who's not only on a personal journey of AF living, but is also creating a safe haven for others to explore the world of alcohol-free choices.

                                        It's a story that's both inspiring and incredibly relevant to many of us.

                                        Let's dive right in!

                                        Episode Takeaways:

                                        ⭐️ Anthony Hammond, the man behind two pubs in Melbourne, shares his incredible journey and we chat us all about the "Sober October" event, co-organized with Greg from "Brewski Dads" and Anita from "The Sober Rebellion."
                                        ⭐️ Anthony opens up about his own struggles with alcohol and how he's now celebrating 2.5 years AF.
                                        ⭐️ We explore how societal norms surrounding alcohol, particularly in industries like sports and hospitality, can contribute to addiction issues.
                                        ⭐️ Together, we delve into the concept of being AF and connection within the very setting you might least expect it: a pub.
                                        ⭐️ Listen in as we discuss the identity crisis many people face after rehab and how alcohol-free events can prove that fun doesn't require alcohol.
                                        ⭐️ Discover the profound impact of AF life on building deeper, more meaningful connections with friends and family.
                                        ⭐️ We take a closer look at the journey of recovery, highlighting the importance of support groups and personal growth.
                                        ⭐️ Find out how being AF can bring contentment and joy to everyday life, even in the simplest moments.
                                        ⭐️ Learn about the availability of non-alcoholic alternatives at pub events, making inclusive choices more accessible.
                                        ⭐️ See how Anthony Hammond is making his pubs a safe space for trying out non-alcoholic drinks and food options.

                                        This episode is all about the power of alcohol-free living, the importance of community, and the journey from addiction to acceptance.

                                        👋 Find out more about Anthony and get tickets to his upcoming events at For tickets head to our website www.pubwithnobooze.com.au

                                        Resources:

                                        ⭐ Emma's Awareness worksheets for people wanting to prepare prior to taking a break from drinking or reduce their drinking by being more mindful about what and why they drink https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/awareness-worksheets-opt-in

                                        ⭐ Emma's 5 Day Alcohol Reset for people looking to take a quick reset https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/fivedayreset

                                        —

                                        Learn more about Emma Gilmour at: www.hoperisingcoaching.com

                                        Follow Emma Gilmour on insta @hoperisingcoaching

                                        37 min

                                      About Midlife AF Podcast

                                      From the publisher's feed

                                      Finding Your Groove Without Booze