Midlife AF Podcast
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Midlife AF Podcast episodes

  • #100 Alchemist AF

    In this episode of Midlife AF, I explore the concept of alchemy - the process of transforming something ordinary into something extraordinary.

    I discuss how we all have the power within ourselves to be our own alchemists, to take our struggles and wounds and transmute them into self-love and self-compassion. I delve into the roots of emotional hyper-arousal, busy brains, and compulsive behaviors, tracing them back to childhood experiences where our sensitive, big emotions were often dismissed or suppressed.

    I talk about the importance of "re-parenting" ourselves, of showing up for the wounded inner child and validating their experience. Through this process of self-acceptance and self-nurturing, we can find the peace and freedom we've been searching for, without the need for external crutches like alcohol.

    It's an empowering message about tapping into our own inner alchemy to create the extraordinary lives we desire.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Alchemy is the process of transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary - we all have this power within us
    • Sensitive, emotional children are often made to feel their big feelings are unacceptable, leading to wounds and "holes" that we try to fill later in life
    • Re-parenting ourselves, validating our inner child, and showing self-love/compassion is the key to healing these wounds
    • We already have everything we need inside to create the peace and freedom we crave - we don't need external substances like alcohol T
    • Tapping into our inner alchemy allows us to transmute our struggles into something precious and life-affirming
    • Episode links & Resources

      • Learn more about Emma Gilmour at: www.hoperisingcoaching.com
      • Follow Emma Gilmour on insta @hoperisingcoaching
      • My Upcoming Coached Events & Programs

        • 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 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 
        • Work with me privately: I have two options for my private 1:1 coaching you can either do a 30 day break with me as your pocket PT with my Em G in Your Pocket package.

          Or you can do a longer more in-depth 3 month program with me which includes weekly zoom sessions and support in between.

          I recommend doing this is you are worried you can’t do a 30 break from booze or you haven’t done one for a while.

          Preparation is everything and we get you so damn ready to stop it’s a relief when day 1 arrives!

          If you are not sure what the best options for you might be you can book an initial 1:1 counselling/ coaching session at $245 for a 90 minute initial consult - you will leave with a plan for your next steps with alcohol and having transformed at least on belief that is keeping you stuck drinking more than you want.

          If you choose to work with me in a 1:1 30 day or 3 month program - the cost of the initial consult will be refunded: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=20808150&appointmentType=43677625 

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

          30 min
        • #99 Abundant AF

          In this episode of Midlife AF, I have an insightful conversation about the importance of self-love and compassion when addressing alcohol use.

          I explain how our inner critic and tendency to self-flagellate often stems from childhood experiences where our emotions were not fully validated. I talk about how our drinking behaviours are not character flaws, but rather coping mechanisms our subconscious has developed to deal with distress.

          The key is to approach change with love and understanding for these protective parts of ourselves, rather than harsh judgment. I also discuss the challenges of doing inner work while still drinking, and why taking a break from alcohol can facilitate deeper personal growth. 

          Episode Highlights:

          • Our inner critic and tendency to self-punish when trying to change drinking behaviours often originates from childhood experiences where our emotions were not fully validated.

          • Drinking behaviours are coping mechanisms, not character flaws - they develop to help us deal with distress and dysregulation.

          • Approaching change with self-love and compassion for our protective parts is more effective than harsh self-judgment.

          • Taking a break from alcohol can create space for deeper personal growth and inner work.
          • Episode links & Resources

            • Learn more about Emma Gilmour at: www.hoperisingcoaching.com
            • Follow Emma Gilmour on insta @hoperisingcoaching
            • My Upcoming Coached Events & Programs

              • 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 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 
              • Work with me privately: I have two options for my private 1:1 coaching you can either do a 30 day break with me as your pocket PT with my Em G in Your Pocket package.

                Or you can do a longer more in-depth 3 month program with me which includes weekly zoom sessions and support in between.

                I recommend doing this is you are worried you can’t do a 30 break from booze or you haven’t done one for a while.

                Preparation is everything and we get get you so damn ready to stop it’s a relief when day 1 arrives!

                If you are not sure what the best options for you might be you can book an initial 1:1 counselling/ coaching session at $245 for a 90 minute initial consult - you will leave with a plan for your next steps with alcohol and having transformed at least on belief that is keeping you stuck drinking more than you want.

                If you choose to work with me in a 1:1 30 day or 3 month program - the cost of the initial consult will be refunded: https://app.acuityscheduling.com/schedule.php?owner=20808150&appointmentType=43677625 

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

                 

                35 min
              • #98 Awakened AF

                In this episode of Midlife AF, I discuss the stigma and misconceptions around giving up alcohol. I share my personal journey of stopping drinking at age 46 and the profound awakening and self-discovery that followed. I challenge the notion that only "problem drinkers" or "alcoholics" should stop drinking and argue that alcohol is harmful for everyone.

                Giving up alcohol is not a punishment, but an opportunity for growth, authenticity, and reclaiming our true selves.

                Key Takeaways: 

                • The alcohol industry and recovery movement have perpetuated the myth that only "problem drinkers" should stop drinking, creating unnecessary stigma
                • Alcohol is a harmful substance for everyone, not just those labeled as "alcoholics"
                • Stopping drinking can lead to a profound awakening and self-discovery, allowing us to confront our true emotions and live more authentic lives
                • Midlife is a time of great transition and opportunity for growth, and giving up alcohol can be a powerful catalyst for this process
                • We need to stop being so compliant and start "rattling the cage" to create the lives we truly want
                • My Upcoming Coached Events & Programs

                  • 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 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 
                  • Episode links & Resources

                    • 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

                      24 min
                    • #97 Rebirthed AF

                      In this episode, I discuss the concept of "rebirthing" and how we go through many different "skins" or versions of ourselves throughout our lives. I talk about the shame and stigma often associated with struggling with alcohol, and how my approach to helping people change their relationship with alcohol is focused on understanding the reasons behind our drinking, rather than just trying to abstain through willpower alone.

                      Takeaways: 

                      • Rebirthing and shedding our "skins" is a natural part of the human experience, especially for women in midlife
                      • Shame and stigma around alcohol use can make it harder to make lasting changes
                      • My approach focuses on understanding the reasons behind our drinking, not just trying to abstain through willpower
                      • Joining a supportive community and program can be a game-changer in changing our relationship with alcohol
                      • Self-compassion and not beating ourselves up when we "fall off the wagon" is crucial
                      • Underlying factors like trauma, neurodivergence, and other life experiences can play a big role in our relationship with alcohol
                      • My Upcoming Coached Events & Programs

                        • Join Emma's 5 Day Alcohol Reset LIVE here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/reset 
                        • Episode links & Resources

                          • 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

                            38 min
                          • #96 Safe AF

                            In this episode of Midlife AF, I discuss the crucial importance of emotional safety and how it relates to the alcohol-free journey. I share my personal experiences and insights on how suppressing difficult emotions through alcohol use can be a form of spiritual bypassing, and how societal expectations around happiness and resilience can further compound this issue.

                            I also chat about the need to create inner safety and validation for ourselves, rather than relying on external coping mechanisms like alcohol. 

                            Key Takeaways:

                            • Emotional safety is a crucial foundation for sustainable alcohol-free living.
                            • Suppressing difficult emotions through alcohol use or spiritual bypassing can prolong problems rather than resolve them.
                            • We must reparent ourselves with emotionally regulated care and validation, rather than judgment and unrealistic expectations.
                            • Finding true joy and fulfilment comes from exploring our interests and passions, not external validation or coping mechanisms.
                            • Creating inner safety and self-acceptance is the path to freedom and growth. 
                            • My Upcoming Coached Events & Programs

                              • Join Emma's 5 Day Alcohol Reset LIVE here: https://www.hoperisingcoaching.com/reset 
                              • Episode links & Resources

                                • 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
                                • #95 Just AF

                                  This week we are exploring the concept of the "just world theory" and how it relates to our tendency to blame victims, especially when it comes to issues around alcohol and adversity. I share personal experiences of being bullied and isolated, and how that impacted my sense of self and emotional processing.

                                  I also chat about the importance of validating our feelings, even the difficult ones, and how practices like Somatic Experiencing, breathwork, and internal family systems work have helped me learn to sit with and process my emotions.

                                  Key Takeaways: 

                                  • The "just world theory" suggests that bad things don't happen to good people, leading to victim-blaming and isolation for those experiencing hardship.
                                  • Childhood experiences of not being allowed to feel our emotions can lead to a lifelong struggle with numbness, disconnection, and control anxiety.
                                  • Validating our own experiences and feelings, rather than dismissing them, is crucial for mental wellness and self-care.
                                  • Reaching out to support friends and loved ones who are hurting, even if they don't immediately respond, can make a significant difference.
                                  • Continuing to explore practices like internal family systems, parts work, and improving interoceptive awareness can help us better process our experiences and emotions.
                                  • Episode links & Resources

                                    • Learn more about Emma Gilmour at: www.hoperisingcoaching.com
                                    • Follow Emma Gilmour on insta @hoperisingcoaching
                                    • My Upcoming Coached Events & Programs

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

                                        30 min
                                      • #94 - Excited AF

                                        This week I dive deep into the complex relationship between alcohol and excitement. As women in midlife, many of us have come to associate drinking with feelings of anticipation and thrill. But is this excitement real, or are we chasing a false sense of vitality? Join me as I unpack the psychology behind our drinking habits, explore how our identities are tied to alcohol, and discover ways to reclaim our natural vibrancy without relying on external substances.

                                        Key Takeaways: 

                                        • I explain why we often mistake anxiety for excitement, especially when it comes to alcohol
                                        • We discuss how childhood experiences shape our adult behaviours and coping mechanisms
                                        • I share insights on the 'theory of holes' and how it relates to our pursuit of excitement
                                        • We explore the concept of creating safety within ourselves instead of seeking it through drinking
                                        • I offer practical advice on how to cultivate genuine excitement and joy in midlife
                                        • We delve into the importance of understanding our true selves beyond societal expectations
                                        • I reveal personal experiences with ecstatic dancing as a means of emotional processing
                                        • We examine how alcohol often promises freedom but delivers the opposite
                                        • I provide strategies for building a relationship with ourselves that fosters natural vibrancy
                                        • We discuss the journey of creating internal safety as a path to authentic living in midlife
                                        • This episode is a must-listen for any woman in midlife questioning her relationship with alcohol and seeking to rediscover her innate vitality and joy.

                                          Episode links & Resources

                                          • Learn more about Emma Gilmour at: www.hoperisingcoaching.com
                                          • Follow Emma Gilmour on insta @hoperisingcoaching
                                          • My Upcoming Coached Events & Programs

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

                                              29 min
                                            • #93- Family Support AF

                                              In this episode, I sit down with Amanda Lockyer, an expert on supporting families and spouses of those struggling with addiction. Amanda shares her personal journey and insights on navigating the complexities of relationships affected by addiction. We discuss the challenges of enabling, setting boundaries, and prioritising self-care while supporting a loved one.

                                              Key takeaways: 

                                              • Addiction impacts the whole family, not just the individual struggling
                                              • The pursuit of "fixing" a loved one's addiction can become all-consuming
                                              • Labeling and shaming are unhelpful approaches when supporting someone with addiction
                                              • Setting healthy boundaries is crucial but requires self-awareness and practice
                                              • Recovery is a journey, not a destination - for both the individual and their loved ones
                                              • Self-care and maintaining your own well-being is essential when supporting someone else
                                              • Connection with boundaries is key in supporting a loved one with addiction
                                              • Episode links & Resources

                                                • Learn more about Amanda at https://www.addictionmakesthree.com/ 
                                                • Follow Amanda on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/addictionmakesthree/ 
                                                • Learn more about Emma Gilmour at: www.hoperisingcoaching.com
                                                • Follow Emma Gilmour on insta @hoperisingcoaching
                                                • My Upcoming Coached Events & Programs:

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

                                                     

                                                    53 min
                                                  • #92 Disappointed AF

                                                    I'm discussing the links between disappointment, people-pleasing behaviours, and alcohol use in midlife women. We'll explore concepts like unmet expectations, examining our beliefs and needs, and letting go of seeking external validation. I also share insights on cultural conditioning, trauma, and finding your authentic identity beyond societal pressures.

                                                    Episode Highlights Include:

                                                    • Disappointment stems from unmet and unexpressed expectations

                                                    • People pleasing behaviours are often trauma responses from childhood

                                                    • Examining one's expectations is important for avoiding resentment

                                                    • Radical acceptance and living in the present can help manage disappointment

                                                    • Women often turn to alcohol as a substitute for validation and praise

                                                    • Cultural conditioning impacts our constructed personalities

                                                    • Traumatic experiences are common but often go unacknowledged

                                                    • Working through trauma is necessary to find one's true self

                                                    • Self-care and asking for help are important parts of well-being

                                                      Episode links & Resources

                                                      • Learn more about Emma Gilmour at: www.hoperisingcoaching.com
                                                      • Follow Emma Gilmour on insta @hoperisingcoaching
                                                      • My Upcoming Coached Events & Programs:

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

                                                           

                                                          29 min
                                                        • #91 Felt AF

                                                          In this episode, I discuss how trauma is held in the body and why somatic experiencing is so important for healing. I explore the relationship between trauma, the nervous system, and addiction. Listeners learn practical tools like breathwork and yoga to connect with their felt sense and regulate emotions.

                                                          Episode highlights include:

                                                          • How trauma gets stored in the nervous system and impacts our "fight or flight" response

                                                          • The link between highly sensitive people and addiction

                                                          • Why resilience is more complex than society often portrays

                                                          • Validating emotions through interoceptive awareness exercises

                                                          • Releasing past hurts through somatic experiencing techniques like breathwork and yoga

                                                            Episode links & Resources

                                                            • Learn more about Emma Gilmour at: www.hoperisingcoaching.com
                                                            • Follow Emma Gilmour on insta @hoperisingcoaching
                                                            • My Upcoming Coached Events & Programs:

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

                                                                 

                                                                41 min

                                                              About Midlife AF Podcast

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                                                              Finding Your Groove Without Booze