Midlife AF Podcast
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Midlife AF Podcast episodes

  • #40 Beyond Binaries with Emma & Bug

    Beyond Binaries: What My Eldest Would Like Other Parents To Know About Neuro and Gender Diverse Kids.

    In this deeply personal episode of "Midlife AF," join me for a warm conversation with my transgender son, Bug.

    Together, we open up about our unique experiences, discussing what it was like for Bug to grow up with a mother struggling with problematic drinking, our family's journey around neurodivergence, and the significance of understanding and supporting trans kids.

    With love and vulnerability, Bug and I share our stories, offering insights and lessons including:

    👉 Bug reflects on his childhood, growing up with a parent who had problematic drinking, and the impact it had on him.
    👉 I share the positive changes that occurred when I stopped drinking and became more present for my family.
    👉 We explore neurodivergence within our family and the importance of acceptance and understanding.
    👉 Bug shares his personal journey as a transgender individual, highlighting the connection between neurodivergence and gender identity.
    👉 We emphasise the significance of listening to and believing young people who are discovering and expressing their true gender.

    Join Bug and me as we provide valuable insights and invite listeners to send in questions for a future Q&A episode. Tune in to this heartwarming conversation on "Midlife AF" and embrace the power of authenticity and understanding.

    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

    35 min
  • #39 - Unstuck AF with Lisa Corduff

    In this powerful episode of Midlife AF, Emma welcomes Lisa Corduff, an influential transformational coach, into a conversation about navigating the challenges of supporting loved ones who are going through difficult times.

    Emma shares her personal journey and how Lisa's guidance helped her overcome feelings of being stuck and regain control of her life.

    Together, they explore the importance of self-care, creating space for oneself, and finding inner strength amidst struggles.

    Episode Takeaways:

    👉 Recognising the impact of supporting loved ones who are struggling
    👉 Learning to separate ourselves from the choices and well-being of others
    👉 Understanding the concept of codependency and its effects on personal growth
    👉 Embracing the role of the main character in our own lives
    👉 Prioritising self-care and filling our cups to overflow with love and compassion
    👉 Embracing a slower pace and listening to the needs of our children
    👉 Exploring the unsustainable nature of societal structures and seeking alternative approaches
    👉 Challenging the normalisation of alcohol as a coping mechanism and starting a new conversation about managing life's challenges

    Join Emma & Lisa as they delve into the profound message of prioritising personal well-being and uncovering the hero within.

    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

    Get tickets to Lia's LIVE 'Harvest' show at: https://lisacorduff.com/harvest-tour/ 
    Learn more about Lisa Corduff at: https://lisacorduff.com/
    Follow Lisa on insta @lisacorduff

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

    37 min
  • #38 - The Truth About “Playing It Forward”

    In this episode of Midlife AF, host Emma Gilmour explores the common tactic of "playing it forward" in sobriety circles and questions its long-term effectiveness for achieving alcohol freedom. She shares her personal struggles as a parent of a neurodiverse child and highlights the societal pressures that contribute to exhaustion and burnout.

    Emma advocates for a shift in mindset away from using alcohol as an escape and towards embracing and listening to our own needs. She also discusses the importance of understanding the role of cravings and offers alternative approaches to address them.

     

    Key takeaways:

     

    • The "playing it forward" tactic can be helpful in the early stages of sobriety, but it may not lead to long-term alcohol freedom.
    • Willpower and pushing through exhaustion or distress often do more harm than good.
    • Escaping ourselves through alcohol only perpetuates suppression and abandonment of our true selves.
    • Listening to and acknowledging our needs is crucial for personal growth and breaking free from the cycle of alcohol fixation.
    • Cravings are signals that need to be addressed and understood rather than suppressed or avoided.
    • Repurposing the "wine saviour" to listen to and validate our emotions can be a healthier alternative to using alcohol as an escape.


    • Join Emma as she challenges the notion of escaping oneself and empowers midlife women to reclaim their potential.

       

      Resources:

      • If you didn’t join our latest round of The Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment, we’d love to hear your thoughts on why! Complete our quick survey here and help us to help even more people: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfsYS_SUdukWYfvaDMMf0lsAvwNMxaTRmxKX82rDRy3ea2iJw/viewform?usp=sf_link 
      • 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
      • The Self-Paced Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment - join us today 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 

        30 min
      • #37 - Breathed AF with Dr Louise Oliver

        In this episode of Midlife AF, host Emma Gilmour invites special guest Dr. Louise Oliver to explore the fascinating connection between breathing, menopause, and snoring. Dr. Oliver shares her expertise as a GP and breathing specialist, revealing how our breathing patterns impact our sleep quality and overall well-being. Discover how perimenopausal and menopausal hormones can affect snoring and learn actionable tips to improve your breathing for a restful night's sleep.

         

        Key takeaways:

         

        • The importance of 24-hour breathing patterns: Become aware of your breathing habits throughout the day and night, paying attention to whether you predominantly breathe through your nose or mouth.
        • Breathing and sleep quality: Proper breathing during sleep helps transition the body into the parasympathetic relaxation response, allowing for essential repair and recovery processes. Snoring and mouth breathing can keep the body in a fight-or-flight state, negatively impacting sleep and overall health.
        • Addressing snoring in midlife: Explore the potential links between snoring, perimenopause, and menopause. Understand how correcting breathing patterns can significantly reduce snoring and improve sleep quality, leading to increased energy levels and overall well-being.

        • Join Emma Gilmour and Dr. Louise Oliver in this eye-opening conversation as they uncover the power of breath for better sleep and a fulfilling midlife experience.

           

          Resources:

          • If you didn’t join our latest round of The Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment, we’d love to hear your thoughts on why! Complete our quick survey here and help us to help even more people: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfsYS_SUdukWYfvaDMMf0lsAvwNMxaTRmxKX82rDRy3ea2iJw/viewform?usp=sf_link 
          • 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
          • The Self-Paced Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment - join us today https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/aae 
          • Learn more about Dr Louise Oliver at: https://www.drlouiseolivertherapeuticlifecoaching.com/menopause

            For more detailed information to improve breathing visit: https://www.drlouiseolivertherapeuticlifecoaching.com/podcast-information

            For Louise's virtual group programme details visit: https://www.drlouiseolivertherapeuticlifecoaching.com/webinar

            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

            51 min
          • #36 - The People In Charge Don't Have a Clue

            In this episode of Midlife AF, Emma Gilmour dives into the disorienting realisation that the people who are supposed to be in charge often don't know what they're doing.

            Drawing from personal experiences as a child and as a parent advocating for her own child's needs, Emma explores the impact of this realisation on our lives as adults. She discusses the interplay between pushing through exhaustion, societal expectations of resilience, and the role these factors play in women's relationship with alcohol.

            Join Emma for an insightful conversation on finding our own path in a world that often fails to provide appropriate care and support.

             

            Key Takeaways:

             

            • The disorienting feeling that arises when we realise those in positions of authority may not have the answers or guidance we expect.
            • The impact of childhood experiences where we internalise the belief that something is wrong with us rather than recognizing the fallibility of those in charge.
            • The challenges of advocating for our children's needs in systems that prioritise attendance over holistic health and well-being.
            • The link between burnout, chronic fatigue, and masking in neurodivergent individuals, including autistic burnout and its impact on mental and physical well-being.
            • The narrative of resilience and how it can be weaponized, particularly for women, leading to feelings of inadequacy and a tendency to use alcohol as a coping mechanism.
            • The importance of rest, self-care, and honouring our own needs, even when societal expectations push us to prioritise others.
            • The need for greater understanding, support, and awareness of neurodivergent individuals and their unique experiences.
            •  

              Resources:

              • If you didn’t join our latest round of The Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment, we’d love to hear your thoughts on why! Complete our quick survey here and help us to help even more people: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfsYS_SUdukWYfvaDMMf0lsAvwNMxaTRmxKX82rDRy3ea2iJw/viewform?usp=sf_link 
              • 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
              • The Self-Paced Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment - join us today 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

                36 min
              • #35 Rested AF - Nurturing Well-being in Midlife and Beyond

                In this episode of Midlife AF, host Emma Gilmour is joined by special guest Jane Hutchens, a nurse, herbalist, nutritionist, and women's health expert.

                Emma and Jane delve into the importance of rest during the midlife stage, particularly in perimenopause and beyond. They explore the challenges women face, the impact of societal expectations, and how rest can be a transformative tool for well-being.

                Join this warm and insightful conversation as they discuss the power of embracing rest and finding resilience in the journey of midlife.

                Key takeaways from this episode include:

                 

                👉 Rest is not only about physical rejuvenation but also about creating spaciousness for reflection and self-discovery.

                👉 Honouring the need for rest in midlife is crucial for navigating the physical and emotional changes that occur during this stage.


                👉 Society often emphasises productivity as a measure of worth, but it's essential to challenge these beliefs and prioritise self-care.


                👉 Reflecting on personal needs and envisioning a different future allows for intentional choices in embracing rest.


                Menopause can be a transformative journey that liberates women from societal expectations and fosters a sense of autonomy and freedom.


                We are delighted to share this conversation as a podcast for those who missed the live session. Join Emma and Jane in exploring the power of rest and resilience in midlife and beyond.


                Resources:

                ⭐ Join the Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment - LIVE! This round starts Monday 29th May 2023: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/the_great_aussie_alcohol_experiment

                ⭐ 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

                Learn more about Jane Hutchens at: https://janehutchens.co/
                Follow Jane Hutchens on insta @janehutchens_co

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




                1 hr 6 min
              • #34 The Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment - LIVE! Difference

                The Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment - LIVE! Difference


                In this episode of the Midlife AF podcast, Emma Gilmour shares her personal experience with the Alcohol Experiment and shares what sets it apart from other alcohol-related programs. As the launch of the program approaches, Emma reflects on how participating in the experiment and now leading it herself has made a profound difference in her ongoing relationship with alcohol.

                Join her as she dives into the unique aspects of the Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment - LIVE! and the impact it can have on achieving true freedom from alcohol!

                Key takeaways from this episode include:

                 

                👉 The Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment is an awareness-based program that aims to transform your relationship with alcohol.


                👉 The program combines psycho-education, mindset work, and daily coaching sessions to help participants gain knowledge, understand their beliefs and behaviours around alcohol, and take action towards positive change.


                👉 The program emphasises the power of peer support and community, providing a safe space for participants to share their experiences and learn from one another.


                👉 By focusing on awareness rather than simply stopping drinking, the Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment aims to shift the mindset from "can't have" to "don't want" when it comes to alcohol.


                👉 The program offers daily coaching sessions with Emma Gilmour, providing valuable support, guidance, and personalised insights throughout the journey.


                👉 Additional resources, such as meditations, recommended readings, and low/no alcohol drink options, are available to participants to enhance their experience and support their alcohol-free lifestyle.


                👉 The Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment is not just about quitting drinking; it's about discovering true freedom by understanding oneself, embracing authenticity, and learning to be present with uncomfortable feelings.


                Join Emma as she explores the transformative power of the Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment and how it can help women navigate midlife alcohol-free with a renewed sense of purpose and joy.


                Resources:


                ⭐ 5 Surprising Ways taking a break from booze can be effortless AND change your life! Free Masterclass! FREE Masterclass Wed 24th May Register here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/may-masterclass-registration

                ⭐ Join the Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment - LIVE! This round starts Monday 29th May 2023: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/the_great_aussie_alcohol_experiment

                ⭐ 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

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

                 

                20 min
              • #32 Sober Travel: Navigating Midlife Adventures without Alcohol

                Are you a woman in midlife looking to travel without alcohol? In this episode of Midlife AF, Emma talks about her recent long-distance flight experience and the differences in travelling sober versus with alcohol. She discusses her upcoming program, the Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment Live, and shares tips for navigating travel without relying on alcohol to relax, soothe pain, or ease nerves.

                Join Emma as she dives into the many benefits of travelling alcohol-free and explores the mindset shift required to embrace a life without alcohol.

                Key takeaways from this episode include:

                 

                • Travelling sober can be a vastly different experience than travelling with alcohol. Emma shares her own experiences and the benefits of travelling without alcohol, such as being fully present, remembering more details of the trip, and feeling less anxious.
                • Changing your mindset around alcohol is key to travelling without it. Emma discusses the work she does with clients to shift their beliefs about alcohol and the various tactics and tools she recommends for navigating travel without relying on alcohol to cope.
                • Living alcohol-free is not about deprivation or missing out. Emma talks about the freedom and peace that comes with living a life without alcohol, and how this mindset shift can positively impact all areas of your life, including travel.


                • 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
                  • Emma's 3 day virtual retreat will change your relationship with alcohol without stopping drinking: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/may_retreat
                  • 5 Surprising Ways taking a break from booze can be effortless AND change your life! Free Masterclass! Register here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/may-masterclass-registration
                  • The Great Aussie Alcohol Experiment - join the waitlist at https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/the_great_aussie_alcohol_experiment
                  • 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 

                    32 min
                  • # 33 - Unleashing Your Human Potential

                    Join host Emma Gilmour in this week's episode of "Midlife AF" as she explores the profound connection between living alcohol-free and unlocking our human potential.

                    Emma shares her personal experiences and insights, highlighting the transformative power of reducing alcohol intake or taking a break from drinking.

                    Discover how shedding the constraints of alcohol can lead to embracing authenticity, intuition, and a life of abundance. Get ready to tap into your own magic and unleash your true potential in this inspiring episode.

                     

                    Key Takeaways:

                     

                    Alcohol-Free Living: Emma emphasises that being alcohol-free is not just about abstaining from drinking but a gateway to self-discovery and personal growth. By removing alcohol, we create space for our true potential to unfold.

                     

                    Authenticity and Intuition: Explore the journey of authenticity and how reducing alcohol consumption can help align with your true self. Learn how to access your intuition and inner knowing, empowering you to make choices that align with your desires and aspirations.

                     

                    Embracing Abundance: Discover the shift from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance by reframing your relationship with alcohol. Explore how freeing yourself from alcohol-related limitations can lead to a life filled with purpose, fulfilment, and embracing your unique gifts.

                     

                    “I genuinely believe that if we take alcohol out of our lives, or at least reduce it significantly or take an extended break... we open ourselves up to our magic.”

                     

                    Resources:


                    Here is the link to Brene’s Midlife Unravelling article https://brenebrown.com/articles/2018/05/24/the-midlife-unraveling/

                    - My 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

                    - My 3 day virtual retreat will change your relationship with alcohol without stopping drinking. https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/may_retreat

                     

                    - My 5 Day Alcohol Reset for people looking to take a quick reset https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/fivedayreset

                    - My self-paced 30 Day Aussie Alcohol Experiment https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/aae

                    Learn more about me at: www.hoperisingcoaching.com

                    Follow me on insta @hoperisingcoaching

                    37 min
                  • #31 Making Waves: Midlife Connections & Swimming with Jo Wise

                    This week's guest is Jo Wise, a dynamic leadership coach who specialises in helping women navigate their midlife experiences with grace and authenticity.

                    Jo's love for swimming has opened the door for her to make genuine connections with other women, forming supportive and inspiring friendships. She believes in the importance of having a network of strong, like-minded individuals who are driven to make a difference in their own lives and in the lives of others. Jo's engaging personality, along with her passion for personal growth and connection, make her a perfect guest for the Midlife AF podcast.

                    This episode will empower you to:

                     

                    • Cultivate authentic friendships and meaningful midlife connections among women.
                    • Conquer fears and vulnerabilities.
                    • Establish profound bonds which foster unity and support.
                    • Navigate through midlife changes and embark on a journey of self-exploration.
                    •  

                      In this episode, you'll discover the impact of creating and joining communities that nurture self-discovery and growth.

                      Resources:

                      • My 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
                      • My 5 Day Alcohol Reset for people looking to take a quick reset https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/fivedayreset
                      • My self-paced 30 Day Aussie Alcohol Experiment https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/aae 
                      • 3 day virtual retreat will change your relationship with alcohol without stopping drinking. https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/may_retreat
                      • Learn more about Emma Gilmour at: www.hoperisingcoaching.com

                        Follow Emma Gilmour on insta @hoperisingcoaching

                        Learn more about Jo Wise at: https://jowiseleadership.com/

                        Follow Jo Wise on insta @jowiseleadership



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

                        53 min

                      About Midlife AF Podcast

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                      Finding Your Groove Without Booze