Midlife Catalyst Podcast

Have you ever wondered why your body seems to betray you just when you think you have everything figured out? I sit down with Anu Simh, a board-certified functional health coach who transformed her own mysterious digestive crisis into a mission to help others heal from the inside out.

Anu's story begins with that all-too-familiar scenario: feeling perfectly healthy until suddenly she wasn't. When traditional doctors dismissed her symptoms with "your labs are normal," she made a pivotal decision to become a detective of her own body. What she discovered about the gut microbiome changed everything.

The Foundation of Health Lives in Your Gut

Our conversation explores the fascinating world of gut health and why everything truly does begin there. Anu explains how our microbiome - those trillions of bacteria living in our digestive system - acts as our "forever guests" in a symbiotic relationship that affects:

• Brain function and mood regulation
• Immune system strength
• Inflammation levels throughout the body
• Food cravings and weight management

The Simple Truth About Feeding Your Microbiome

Despite all the complexity surrounding nutrition today, Anu's message is refreshingly straightforward: feed them fiber. She shares how this one principle can shift everything from cravings to mood stability, often within just 14 days.

Navigating Midlife Changes

For those of us experiencing the frustration of our tried-and-true methods no longer working, Anu offers hope and practical wisdom. She addresses how menopause changes our microbiome and why the rules of the game shift during this life stage.

We discuss her MBHR framework - focusing on Microbiome, Brain, Hormones, and Reframing - as a sustainable approach to maintaining health rather than constantly managing it.

Breaking Free from the Yo-Yo Cycle

If you've spent years in the restrict-and-regain pattern, this conversation offers a different perspective. Anu explains why 80% of people regain lost weight and how thinking about our microbiome as an heirloom we pass to future generations can shift our entire approach to wellness.

A Message of Hope and Connection

Perhaps most powerfully, Anu reframes our relationship with our bodies. Instead of being at war with ourselves, she invites us to see ourselves as part of an incredible partnership with these microscopic allies who want nothing more than to help us thrive.

Whether you're struggling with digestive issues, feeling frustrated with midlife body changes, or simply seeking a more sustainable approach to wellness, this conversation offers both scientific insight and gentle encouragement for the journey ahead.

In this raw and powerful episode of Midlife Catalyst, I sit down with Chad Harrigan, a life and leadership coach whose journey through grief and resilience offers profound insights into the human experience. Chad's story is one of heartbreak and hope, as he shares the devastating loss of his son and how it reshaped his entire world.

Navigating the Depths of Grief

• The unexpected joy of becoming a father after believing he didn't want children
• The tragic loss of his son, Colin James, just before his second birthday
• His struggle with guilt, anger, and the near-destruction of his marriage
• The challenging path to healing and rediscovering purpose

Breaking the Silence on Death and Grief

We explore the critical need for better conversations around death and grief in our society. Chad offers valuable insights on:

• Why the traditional stages of grief can be misleading
• How to support someone who is grieving without trying to "fix" their pain
• The importance of allowing ourselves and others to grieve authentically

From Personal Pain to Professional Purpose

Chad's journey led him to become a life coach, using his experiences to help others navigate their own challenges. He shares:

• How therapy and coaching helped him process his grief
• The unexpected way his pain opened doors to connect with others
• His approach to coaching that addresses the whole person, not just work-related issues

Finding Joy and Healing Through Self-Expression

We discuss the therapeutic power of creative outlets and self-care, including:

• Using music and songwriting as a form of emotional expression
• The unexpected benefits of video games in processing grief
• The importance of finding activities that allow for both escapism and growth

This conversation is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of vulnerability in healing. Whether you're navigating your own grief, supporting someone through loss, or simply seeking to understand the complexities of human emotion, Chad's story offers valuable lessons on compassion, resilience, and the importance of honest communication.

Join us for this moving discussion that challenges societal norms around grief and offers a roadmap for finding purpose and joy after unimaginable loss.

Are you struggling to find your true identity and self-love after a major life transition? Join me as I sit down with Stephanie Carmody, a publicist turned podcast host, who shares her journey of healing and rediscovery after divorce.

In this raw and inspiring conversation, we explore navigating midlife reinventions and the challenges that come with major life transitions. Stephanie shares her personal journey of healing from a toxic marriage, finding her purpose, and embracing her identity beyond societal labels. We discuss the importance of storytelling, managing anxiety, and celebrating second acts in life. Stephanie emphasizes the need to live authentically and pursue passions while encouraging listeners to ignore naysayers and focus on personal growth.

Want to be a guest on the Midlife Catalyst Podcast? We’d love to hear your story. Whether you’re navigating a personal transformation, seeking deeper self-awareness, or just want to share your insights, reach out! Visit midlifecatalyst.net or email [email protected].

And don’t forget to subscribe to Amanda’s Substack at amandayounts.substack.com, where you’ll find episode extras, journal prompts, and deeper dives into everything we discuss on the podcast.

Have you ever felt the urge to change your life's direction but hesitated due to fear or uncertainty? In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Karen Fabian, a yoga instructor, podcast host, and founder of Bare Bones Yoga, who shares her remarkable journey from corporate success to entrepreneurial fulfillment.

Karen's story is a testament to the power of listening to your inner voice and taking bold action. She reveals how a single yoga class in 1999 sparked a transformation that led her to leave a six-figure corporate job and pursue her passion for teaching yoga.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• How Karen navigated the transition from a stable career to entrepreneurship
• The importance of creating a solid plan before making a major life change
• Strategies for building confidence and overcoming self-doubt
• The value of experimentation and self-reflection in personal growth

Key takeaways:

• The power of trusting your intuition when making life-altering decisions
• How to craft a vision for your future and create actionable steps to achieve it
• The role of mindset in overcoming obstacles and achieving success
• The benefits of working with a coach to gain new perspectives and break limiting beliefs

Karen also introduces her innovative "Confidence Practice" framework, designed to help individuals cultivate self-assurance in all aspects of life. She shares practical tips from her 5-Day Confidence Challenge, offering listeners actionable steps to boost their self-esteem and pursue their dreams.

Whether you're considering a career change, struggling with self-doubt, or simply seeking inspiration to live more authentically, this conversation with Karen Fabian will motivate you to take that first step towards personal transformation.

Remember, it's never too late to reinvent yourself and pursue your passions. As Karen's journey shows, with careful planning, self-reflection, and a willingness to experiment, you can create a life that truly resonates with your deepest desires.

Have you ever wondered how personal challenges can become catalysts for growth and transformation? Join me as I sit down with Jaime Townzen, a Southern California-based writer and professional artist, who turned one of the hardest periods in her life into a springboard for achieving her dreams.

In this inspiring conversation, we explore:

• How Jaime found her creative voice during a time of loss and grief
• The power of dedicating just 15 minutes a day to self-care and passion projects
• Balancing family responsibilities with personal aspirations
• The journey from watercolor painting to becoming a published author

Jaime opens up about the intense six-year period where she lost eight loved ones while juggling the demands of raising young children and supporting her household. We discuss:

• The emotional toll of being sandwiched between caring for aging parents and young children
• How the pandemic became an unexpected turning point
• The power of finding a creative outlet to reclaim your sense of self

This episode powerfully reminds us that it's never too late to pursue our passions and that sometimes, our greatest challenges can lead to our most profound growth. Whether you're feeling stuck in a caregiving role, yearning to reconnect with your creativity, or simply seeking inspiration to make a change, Jaime's story offers hope and practical wisdom for charting a new course.

You can find more about Jaime by going to her website https://jaimetownzen.com/

Want to be a guest on the Midlife Catalyst Podcast? We’d love to hear your story. Whether you’re navigating a personal transformation, seeking deeper self-awareness, or just want to share your insights, reach out! Visit https://midlifecatalyst.net or email [email protected].

And don’t forget to subscribe to Amanda’s Substack at amandayounts.substack.com, where you’ll find episode extras, journal prompts, and deeper dives into everything we discuss on the podcast.

In this powerful episode of Midlife Catalyst, I sit down with Tamara Mantack, a resilient author, educator, and life coach who transformed her life from teen motherhood and homelessness to becoming a beacon of hope for others. Tamara's journey is a testament to the human spirit's capacity to overcome seemingly insurmountable odds.

Tamara opens up about her tumultuous childhood in Jamaica, becoming a mother at 14, and the challenges she faced upon moving to America. Her story is one of:

From Rock Bottom to Rising Star

• Navigating cultural shock and language barriers
• Experiencing homelessness and family rejection
• Overcoming educational hurdles as a young, single mother

We explore the pivotal moment that sparked Tamara's transformation:

• A heart-wrenching encounter with law enforcement
• The realization that breaking cycles requires radical change
• How her son became her motivation for perseverance

Education as a Pathway to Empowerment

Tamara shares her journey through higher education, highlighting:

• The challenges of balancing motherhood and studies
• How understanding her students' struggles shapes her teaching approach
• Her mission to bring resources to low-income communities

Breaking the Silence

We discuss Tamara's book, "In Love with the Possibilities," and how writing became a tool for:

• Healing from past traumas
• Finding her voice and reclaiming her narrative
• Empowering others to share their stories

A New Chapter: Advocacy and Education

Tamara introduces her latest venture, "Prove You Can Parenting," explaining:

• The importance of educating parents to break generational cycles
• Her approach to helping children with challenging behaviors
• How she's leveraging social media to reach and support families

This episode powerfully reminds us that our past doesn't define our future. Tamara's story will inspire you to consider the possibilities in your own life and how you can turn adversity into purpose.

You can connect with Tamara by visiting her YouTube channel at https://www.youtube.com/@Proveyoucan

Want to be a guest on the Midlife Catalyst Podcast? We’d love to hear your story. Whether you’re navigating a personal transformation, seeking deeper self-awareness, or just want to share your insights, reach out! Visit midlifecatalyst.net or email [email protected].

And don’t forget to subscribe to Amanda’s Substack at amandayounts.substack.com, where you’ll find episode extras, journal prompts, and deeper dives into everything we discuss on the podcast.

Are you caught in a cycle of overthinking that leaves you feeling stuck and disconnected from your true self? On this week's episode of the Midlife Catalyst Podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Shauna Hawkes, a women's embodiment mentor and yoga teacher, who shed light on how we can move from overthinking to calm and build self-trust.

The Overthinking Trap

Many of us, especially women, find ourselves caught in a cycle of overthinking. We create routines, set goals, and constantly strive to do more. While these practices can be beneficial, they often keep us stuck in our heads rather than allowing us to truly feel and experience life.

Shauna pointed out that this tendency to overthink is often rooted in our masculine energy - the part of us that's all about doing, achieving, and pushing forward. While this energy has its place, an overreliance on it can leave us feeling disconnected from our bodies and our intuition.

The Power of Pausing

One of Shauna's most powerful insights was the importance of pausing. In our busy lives, it's easy to keep pushing forward, thinking that if we just do one more thing, we'll finally feel calm and in control. However, true calm comes from slowing down and connecting with our bodies.

Shauna suggests a simple yet powerful practice: when you notice yourself overthinking, pause for a moment. Close your eyes and tune into your body. Ask yourself:

• Is there tightness in my chest?
• Do I feel discomfort in my belly?
• Is there heaviness in my shoulders?

This practice of body awareness can help shift us out of our racing thoughts and into the present moment.

This conversation is a gentle reminder that the answers we seek often lie within us, waiting to be uncovered through patience, self-compassion, and embodied awareness. Whether you're grappling with overthinking, seeking your life's purpose, or simply curious about alternative paths to self-discovery, Shauna's insights offer a refreshing perspective on living authentically and embracing your unique journey.

Connect with Shauna by visiting her website: https://www.shaunahawkes.com/

Want to be a guest on the Midlife Catalyst Podcast? We’d love to hear your story. Whether you’re navigating a personal transformation, seeking deeper self-awareness, or just want to share your insights, reach out! Visit midlifecatalyst.net or email [email protected].

And don’t forget to subscribe to Amanda’s Substack at amandayounts.substack.com, where you’ll find episode extras, journal prompts, and deeper dives into everything we discuss on the podcast.

Are you struggling with hormone imbalances that leave you feeling exhausted, anxious, and out of sync with your body? In this week's episode of the Midlife Catalyst Podcast, I sit down with Diego Reyes, a nationally recognized functional medicine practitioner and certified nutritionist, to explore innovative solutions for hormone health.

Diego shares his journey from conventional healthcare to founding Complete Vitality, a cutting-edge health optimization practice.

We dive deep into:

• Why traditional approaches to hormone issues often fall short
• The interconnected nature of our body's systems and why isolating them doesn't work
• How functional diagnostic testing can reveal root causes of hormone imbalances
• Practical tips for supporting hormone health naturally

Key Takeaways:

• Discover why addressing root causes is crucial for lasting hormone balance
• Learn about the gut-hormone connection and its impact on overall health
• Understand the value of 24-hour hormone testing vs. traditional blood tests
• Explore the potential benefits of bioidentical hormone therapy

Highlights:

• Diego's transition from conventional medicine to functional health approaches
• The importance of lifestyle changes in supporting hormone balance
• Why perimenopause and menopause symptoms are not "just aging"
• Practical tips for improving sleep and managing stress

Whether you're dealing with unexplained fatigue, mood swings, or stubborn weight gain, this episode offers valuable insights to help you reclaim your vitality. Diego's approach combines advanced testing, nutrition, and lifestyle modifications to create personalized solutions for complex hormone issues.

Remember, your body is not a mystery – it's sending you signals. Are you ready to listen and take action?

Timestamps:

00:00:00
Introduction to Diego Reyes and his journey in functional medicine

00:05:30
The failings of conventional medicine in addressing hormone imbalances

00:15:17
Understanding functional diagnostic testing for hormones

00:25:45
Practical tips for supporting hormone health naturally

00:36:59
Addressing perimenopause and menopause symptoms holistically

00:00:12
Introducing Diego Reyes: Functional Medicine Expert

00:02:34
From Conventional Medicine to Holistic Healing

00:09:10
Addressing Mindset and Behavior in Healing

00:13:08
The Importance of Physiological Balance

00:17:16
The Value of Functional Lab Testing

00:22:04
Addressing Perimenopause and Menopause Symptoms

00:33:32
The Importance of an Open Mind in Health

00:36:51
Integrated Alignment and Environmental Toxins

00:40:07
Quick Tips for Better Health

Connect with Diego at https://completevitality.com

Want to be a guest on the Midlife Catalyst Podcast? We’d love to hear your story. Whether you’re navigating a personal transformation, seeking deeper self-awareness, or just want to share your insights, reach out! Visit midlifecatalyst.net or email [email protected].

And don’t forget to subscribe to Amanda’s Substack at amandayounts.substack.com, where you’ll find episode extras, journal prompts, and deeper dives into everything we discuss on the podcast.

In this powerful episode of Midlife Catalyst, Amanda Younts is joined by Vietnamese Australian divorce coach and speaker, Naomi Cao. Naomi shares her incredible journey from pharmacist and mother of three to a resilient single parent and founder of a thriving divorce coaching business.

After her husband of 17 years announced their separation just days before a family vacation, Naomi was thrust into emotional and financial turmoil. With her joint bank account frozen and assets liquidated without her knowledge, she faced the overwhelming task of rebuilding life from the ground up. But through self-advocacy, community building, and radical self-care, Naomi emerged stronger and now helps others do the same.

Together, we explore:

• The emotional and financial upheaval of an unexpected separation, and how Naomi navigated it
  

• How self-care and independence became the foundation for healing and rebuilding
  

• The power of community support during life transitions, especially for single parents
  

• Naomi’s creation of support groups and her Split Framework for coaching others through divorce

  
  

A few key takeaways:

• Healing begins when you prioritize your own needs and stop apologizing for your boundaries.
  

• Legal and emotional empowerment are possible even when you're starting over with limited resources.
  

• Connection and community are essential lifelines during the isolation of divorce.
  

• Personal reinvention doesn’t require perfection; it requires courage, self-trust, and taking one small step at a time.

  
  

  If you’re navigating separation or a major life shift, this episode is a must-listen. Naomi’s story is a testament to resilience, and her practical wisdom will inspire you to take back your power and begin again—with strength, clarity, and grace.

  Want to be a guest on the Midlife Catalyst Podcast? We’d love to hear your story. Whether you’re navigating a personal transformation, seeking deeper self-awareness, or just want to share your insights, reach out! Visit midlifecatalyst.net or email [email protected].

  And don’t forget to subscribe to Amanda’s Substack at https://amandayounts.substack.com, where you’ll find episode extras, journal prompts, and deeper dives into everything we discuss on the podcast.

  
  

Are you drowning in a sea of stuff, yearning for a simpler life but unsure where to begin? Join me as I sit down with Natasha Kolehmainen, a life coach and midlife reinvention guide, to explore the transformative power of decluttering and downsizing.

In this much-anticipated conversation, we dive deep into:

• The emotional journey of letting go and creating space for what truly matters
• How decluttering can lead to unexpected personal growth and freedom
• Practical strategies for overcoming the "what if I need it someday" mentality
• The surprising connection between physical clutter and mental well-being

Key Takeaways:

• Discover why traditional decluttering methods often fail and learn a more sustainable approach
• Understand the hidden emotional attachments behind our stuff and how to address them
• Learn how to create a natural cadence for maintaining a clutter-free life
• Explore the concept of "enough" and how it relates to our possessions and lifestyle choices

Highlights:

• Natasha's personal journey from a 3600 sq ft house to a 1100 sq ft apartment
• The unexpected benefits of living with less, including improved health and relationships
• Practical tips for ethical and environmentally conscious decluttering
• How to navigate the emotional challenges of letting go, especially for educators and book lovers

Whether you're considering a major downsize or simply want to create more breathing room in your life, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable strategies. Natasha's approach goes beyond just tidying up – it's about creating space for the life you truly want to live.

Remember, it's not about having nothing; it's about surrounding yourself with items that genuinely serve your current chapter in life. Are you ready to take the first step towards a more intentional, clutter-free existence?

Chapters:

00:00:00
Introduction to Natasha and the decluttering journey

00:05:30
The emotional challenges of letting go

00:08:27

Understanding Acquisition and Release of Possessions

00:15:17
Practical strategies for sustainable decluttering

00:25:45
The unexpected benefits of living with less

00:36:59
Creating a maintenance plan for a clutter-free life

Want to be a guest on the Midlife Catalyst Podcast?

We’d love to hear your story. Whether you’re navigating a personal transformation, seeking deeper self-awareness, or just want to share your insights, reach out!

Visit https://midlifecatalyst.net or email [email protected]. And don’t forget to subscribe to Amanda’s Substack at amandayounts.substack.com, where you’ll find episode extras, journal prompts, and deeper dives into everything we discuss on the podcast.