Midlife Catalyst Podcast

Are you navigating the complex world of midlife dating? Join me as I sit down with Liv Talley, a professional matchmaker and dating coach who specializes in helping high-achieving professionals find their forever love. In this eye-opening episode, we explore the nuances of modern dating and uncover valuable insights for those seeking meaningful connections in their later years.

In this episode, you'll discover:

• The evolution of dating terminology in midlife
• Why traditional dating apps may not be the best option for successful professionals
• The importance of balancing masculine and feminine energies in relationships
• How to identify and communicate your core values effectively
• The true value of investing in your love life

Key takeaways:

• Learn why the term "partner" is gaining popularity in midlife dating circles
• Understand the shift in dating dynamics caused by social media and apps
• Explore the concept of "invitation" over "pursuit" in attracting the right partner
• Discover the four components of attraction: physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual
• Gain insights into what men over 50 are truly looking for in a partner

Liv shares her journey from personal blogger to professional matchmaker, offering a unique perspective on the modern dating landscape. Her approach combines traditional values with contemporary realities, helping clients navigate the complexities of finding love in midlife.

Whether you're re-entering the dating scene after a long hiatus or simply looking to refine your approach, this episode offers valuable advice for anyone seeking lasting love in midlife. Don't miss this opportunity to gain expert insights and practical tips for your dating journey.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Dating Terminology

03:41 The Evolution of Dating: From Blogs to Matchmaking

07:26 The Shift from Dating Apps to Matchmaking

10:48 The Importance of Compatibility in Relationships

14:17 Investing in Relationships: The Key to Happiness

17:01 Understanding Client Demographics in Matchmaking

21:00 Balancing Masculine and Feminine Energies in Dating

24:54 The Four Components of Attraction

27:43 Physical Attraction and Its Impact

30:39 Long-Term Compatibility: Values and Vision

33:08 Cultural Reflections on Dating and Relationships

40:36 Conclusion and Resources for Further Learning

Where to find us:

• Liv's blog: The Sealed Deal
• Connect with Liv: @livtallyofficial on social media

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.

Discover how shadow work, self-awareness, and emotional integration can transform your life. In this inspiring Midlife Catalyst episode, clinical therapist & integrative healer Tess Wilton shares powerful tools to heal past wounds, build resilience, and set healthy boundaries.

In this episode of Midlife Catalyst, host Amanda Younts speaks with Tess Wilton, a trauma-informed therapist and integrative healer, about how high-achieving, spiritually attuned women can reclaim their inner power. Tess blends clinical therapy with spiritual practices like shadow work, emotional integration, and sacred witnessing to help clients navigate midlife transitions with clarity and confidence.

You’ll learn:

• How to recognize and work with your “shadow self”
  

• Practical self-awareness tools for daily life
  

• Breathwork and self-soothing techniques to stay grounded
  

• How to set and maintain healthy boundaries
  

• Why emotional storms aren’t your enemy
  

• Steps to stop people-pleasing and prioritize yourself
  

Whether you’re seeking personal growth, healing from past traumas, or striving for soul-level leadership, Tess’s approach offers a path to deeper connection, resilience, and authenticity.

📌Key Moments

00:00 – Welcome & introduction to Tess Wilton

02:10 – Tess’s journey into therapy and healing

06:45 – Blending spiritual and clinical approaches

09:30 – Understanding shadow work

13:20 – Recognizing triggers and emotional patterns

17:05 – How self-awareness creates choice

20:15 – The role of emotions, thoughts, and behaviors

24:30 – Avoiding autopilot reactions in conflict

27:40 – Importance of willingness and hope in healing

31:00 – People-pleasing and self-abandonment patterns

34:25 – Why emotional storms aren’t the enemy

37:10 – Self-reflection without judgment

39:00 – Practical self-soothing tools (5 senses method)

42:20 – The power of boundaries and how to set them

45:50 – Examples of real-life boundary conversations

48:15 – Breathwork techniques for grounding (box & Ferris wheel breathing)

50:00 – Final thoughts 

If this episode inspired you, give it a like, share it with someone who needs to hear it, drop your thoughts in the comments, and subscribe so you never miss an empowering conversation.

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.

Follow me on Social Media : 

Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/midlifecatalyst/

Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/midlifecatalyst

LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-younts

Tiktok : https://www.tiktok.com/@midlifecatalyst

In this enlightening episode of Midlife Catalyst, Amanda Younts is joined by award-winning author and self-awareness coach, Ellie LaLiberté. Ellie opens up about her transformative journey of emotional healing, including the profound experience of losing her business and finding herself anew. She shares the story behind her book Letters from You to You, a guide to reconnecting with your higher self through 21 powerful letters.

Ellie discusses witness consciousness, a practice that allows us to observe our thoughts and emotions without judgment, and how it’s helped her achieve inner peace and stillness. Through her personal insights and practical advice, she demonstrates how consistent meditation, self-awareness, and community support can foster deeper self-discovery.

Together, we explore:

• The process of emotional healing and shedding old identities to rediscover your true self
  

• What witness consciousness is and how it can help you cultivate peace in a busy world
  

• Practical strategies for integrating meditation and awareness into your daily routine
  

• The importance of not attaching to thoughts and living in the present moment
  

• The vital role of community in supporting personal growth and self-awareness

  
  

  A few key takeaways:

  • Witness consciousness offers a path to observing thoughts without judgment, helping to create peace and clarity.
    

  • Healing involves shedding old identities and embracing the essence of yourself, beyond external labels.
    

  • Living in the present moment, free from attachment to time, can lead to a deeper connection with your higher self.
    

  • A supportive community is crucial to personal growth and the journey of self-awareness.
    

  If you're ready to embark on a journey of emotional healing and reconnect with your higher self, this episode is for you. Tune in to learn how to integrate these powerful practices into your life for lasting transformation.

  
  

  Want to be a guest on the Midlife Catalyst Podcast? We’d love to hear your story. Whether navigating a personal transformation, seeking deeper self-awareness, or just wanting 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 a world where change is constant, how do we navigate the inevitable resistance that comes with it? This episode of Midlife Catalyst delves into the heart of personal and organizational transformation with Becca Silver, an expert in education and leadership coaching.

Becca introduces us to her groundbreaking framework, the Catalyst Mindsets, which goes beyond the traditional concept of growth mindset. She reveals how these five interconnected mindsets can empower us to overcome resistance and create lasting change in our lives and organizations.

The Five Catalyst Mindsets

Becca breaks down each mindset, explaining how they work together to foster resilience and adaptability:

• Growth Mindset: Believing in our ability to improve
• Success Mindset: Trusting in our potential for success
• Belonging Mindset: Feeling connected and valued
• Value Mindset: Recognizing the relevance and meaning in our actions
• Ownership Mindset: Taking responsibility for creating change

Overcoming Resistance to Change

We explore the common pitfalls that hinder personal and organizational growth, including:

• The culture of niceness that stifles authentic communication

• The fear of conflict and its impact on genuine connection

• The importance of psychological safety in fostering innovation

Becca shares practical strategies for implementing these mindsets, from making powerful requests to embracing discomfort as a catalyst for growth.

Practical Tools for Personal Empowerment

This conversation is packed with actionable advice for anyone seeking to catalyze change in their life or organization:

• How to use the GRID formula (Growth = Reflection + Informed Action + Discomfort Tolerance)
• Techniques for increasing your discomfort tolerance
• The power of self-reflection and informed action in creating lasting change

Whether you're a leader looking to navigate organizational change, an educator seeking to empower your students, or simply someone striving for personal growth, this episode offers invaluable insights into the human-centered approach to transformation.

Join us as we unpack the complexities of change, resistance, and the mindsets that can propel us forward. Discover how to become a catalyst for positive transformation in your life and the lives of those around you.

For more resources on the Catalyst Mindsets and human-centered leadership, visit Becca's sites. [SELF PACED COURSE] The Resistance Remedy: https://www.thewholeeducator.com/resistance-remedy[FREE QUIZ & EBOOK] Catalyst Mindsets Quiz: https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/67b2bd55c80a8856505f9446Website: www.thewholeeducator.comPodcast: https://www.thewholeeducator.com/podcast

Subscribe to my Substack at https://amandayounts.substack.com for resource lists, playlists, journal prompts, and more detailed information about each episode.If you are interested in being a guest on the Midlife Catalyst Podcast reach out through the https://midlifecatalyst.net website or send an email to [email protected] in Bio App: https://linktr.ee/amandayounts

In this transformative episode of Midlife Catalyst, Amanda Younts sits down with powerhouse recruiter and author Kelly Brown, whose bold journey from burnout to purpose is nothing short of inspiring. Kelly opens up about walking away from a high-paying corporate job—what she calls the “golden handcuffs”—to pursue something deeper: peace, purpose, and her “Aloha.”

What began as a radical leap of faith and a one-way ticket to Hawaii evolved into a journey of spiritual awakening, financial risk, and profound self-discovery. Kelly shares the highs and lows of trading in a polished career for a humbling season in the wilderness, and how that path led her not only to launch a successful recruiting company but also to find love and joy in the unlikeliest of places.

Together, we explore:

• What it really takes to leave behind success that no longer fulfills you
• The role of faith and spiritual surrender in taking bold life risks
• Why living simply can open the door to profound clarity and purpose
• How stepping away from societal expectations helped Kelly build a values-aligned business
• What it means to “bet on yourself” even when the outcome is uncertain

A few key takeaways:

• True transformation begins when you stop living for others’ approval and start listening to your own soul.
• Faith isn’t about certainty. It’s about being willing to take the next step anyway.
• Stripping things away—titles, possessions, expectations—can be the most freeing gift.
• Your “Aloha” is waiting on the other side of the leap you’re afraid to take.

If you’ve ever wondered what it would look like to walk away from everything safe and familiar to find something real, this episode will speak directly to you. Tune in to hear how Kelly’s leap of faith changed everything… and why she wouldn’t trade the wilderness for the world.

Want to be a guest on the Midlife Catalyst Podcast? We’d love to hear your story. Whether you’re figuring things out, navigating a big shift, or just have something on your heart you want to share—reach out! Visit midlifecatalyst.net or email [email protected].

And don’t forget to subscribe to Amanda’s Substack at amandayounts.substack.com. That’s where all the good stuff lives—episode extras, playlists, journal prompts, and deeper dives into everything we discuss here.

In this profoundly moving episode of Midlife Catalyst, Amanda Younts sits down with survivor, speaker, and advocate Jackson Rainbow to hear his remarkable story of resilience, faith, and healing. Diagnosed with stage three Hodgkin’s lymphoma at age 12, Jackson endured grueling treatments with a heart full of hope. By 13, he was already sharing his message with thousands at the NCAA Division II meeting, proving that light can shine through even in the most challenging circumstances.

But Jackson’s story doesn’t stop there. In 2017, another life-threatening health emergency left him unable to walk, eat, or drink. He survived and returned stronger, fueled by his faith, family, and the unwavering belief that he was still here for a reason.

In the years that followed, Jackson battled addiction, isolation, and spiritual exhaustion. And yet, through the darkness, he found a way back to himself, his purpose, and those he loves. Now married and thriving, Jackson is committed to helping others rise through what they’ve been through, reminding us that healing doesn’t happen alone—it happens in community.

Together, We Explore:

• Jackson’s battle with cancer as a young teen—and how it led him to his life’s mission
  

• The powerful role of community, faith, and family support in surviving the unthinkable
  

• His second major health crisis and the miraculous recovery that followed
  

• The quiet but painful reality of addiction and the path to sobriety
  

Key Takeaways:

• Resilience isn’t the absence of pain—it’s the willingness to endure it.
  

• Faith, when coupled with action and community, can be a life-saving force.
  

• Healing is not linear. It requires honesty, support, and sometimes, a complete reset.
  

• Even in our darkest seasons, purpose can be rediscovered—and used to help others heal.
  

If you’re facing your own hard season, or supporting someone who is, this episode will remind you: you’re not alone. Life is beyond the battle, and your story might just be the light someone else needs.

To inquire about Jackson's speaking engagements, reach out to [email protected]

You can connect with Jackson at https://www.facebook.com/jackson.rainbow.1
https://www.instagram.com/jackkss55/

Want to be a guest on the Midlife Catalyst Podcast? We’d love to hear your story. Whether you’re figuring things out, navigating a big shift, or just have something on your heart you want to share—reach out! Visit midlifecatalyst.net or email [email protected].

And don’t forget to subscribe to Amanda’s Substack at amandayounts.substack.com. That’s where all the good stuff lives—episode extras, playlists, journal prompts, and deeper dives into everything we talk about here.

In this profoundly moving episode of Midlife Catalyst, Amanda Younts sits down with Emily Williams Kelley—an assistant principal, mother, and woman in long-term recovery—for an honest and vulnerable conversation about what it takes to keep showing up when no one is watching.

Emily shares how the sudden loss of her father in 2002 pushed her deeper into alcoholism, and how, after years of struggle and multiple rock bottoms, she began her journey to sobriety on April 21, 2009. From there, life continued to test her resolve: her brother’s cancer diagnosis and passing, her mother’s battle with breast cancer, and the emotional weight of leading through personal heartbreak.

One story, in particular, lingers—about the early days of recovery when she would deliberately drive in the center lane to avoid passing liquor stores. That simple, quiet act captures so much of what leadership and healing actually look like: the smallest decisions, made with great integrity, when no one else is watching.

Together, we explore:

A few key takeaways:

• You don’t have to be perfect to be a powerful leader—you just have to keep showing up
  

• Sobriety isn’t one big decision, but a thousand small ones made with intention
  

• Real integrity is quiet—it happens in moments no one sees but you
  

• Support, faith, and community are essential to healing and staying grounded
  

• Leading with your whole heart—especially when life is messy—is a radical act of courage
  

Whether you're navigating your own recovery, grieving the loss of someone you love, or simply trying to lead with more heart and honesty, Emily’s story is a powerful reminder that integrity isn’t a performance—it’s a practice.

✨ Want more soul-stretching conversations and reflection prompts? Subscribe to Amanda’s Substack: https://amandayounts.substack.com

✨ Interested in being a guest on Midlife Catalyst? Visit https://midlifecatalyst.net or email [email protected]

In this powerful episode of Midlife Catalyst, Amanda Younts is joined by Dr. Brandi Kelly. Dr. Kelly shares how personal tragedy—the drowning of her younger brother at age 15, ignited her path into social work, education, and eventually leadership. What emerged from her pain was a mission to help others transform adversity into purpose.

Brandi introduces her HOPE framework—Habits, Optimistic Outlook, Purpose, Passion, and Excellence, as a practical guide for leaders and educators to navigate burnout, lead with intention, and foster resilience. She also discusses her latest book Spark Hope, as well as upcoming offerings like a virtual book study and the Spark Hope Leadership Lab.

More than a conversation about leadership, this episode delves into the human side of purpose, the healing power of mindfulness, the importance of setting boundaries, and the strength that comes from community connection.

Together, we explore:

• How post-traumatic growth shaped Brandi’s leadership philosophy and work in education
  

• Why burnout in education is real—and how HOPE can offer a lifeline
  
• The power of intentional habits and inner reflection
  
• What it means to lead from a place of purpose and passion, even in systems that feel broken
  
• Practical ways to stay grounded and well while caring for others

Key Takeaways:

• We can’t lead others if we don’t care for ourselves first; self-awareness and boundaries are essential.
  

• Post-traumatic growth is possible when we choose healing and connection over isolation.
  

• Every person—whether leading a classroom, family, or community—has the capacity to spark hope.
  

• We are not promised tomorrow, so fulfilling our purpose is urgent and sacred work.
  

If you're feeling weary, questioning your direction, or need a reminder of your own resilience, this episode will meet you where you are and remind you that you're not alone.

Find more about Dr. Brandi Kelly at sparkhopeedu.com

Want to be a guest on the Midlife Catalyst Podcast? We’d love to hear your story. Whether you’re figuring things out, navigating a big shift, or just have something on your heart you want to share—reach out! Visit midlifecatalyst.net or email [email protected].

And don’t forget to subscribe to Amanda’s Substack at amandayounts.substack.com. That’s where all the good stuff lives—episode extras, playlists, journal prompts, and deeper dives into everything we talk about here.

The Unfiltered Truth About Self-Care and Leadership in Your 40s!

Ever have one of those days when you just can't muster the energy to put on your game face? Welcome to my world. In this raw and unfiltered episode of Midlife Catalyst, I'm pulling back the curtain on what happens when a lifestyle coach decides to join the "We Don't Care Club."

From unbrushed hair to mismatched nail polish, I'm embracing the beauty of not giving a damn. But this isn't just about appearances - it's a deeper dive into the exhausting expectations we place on ourselves and the liberating power of occasionally saying, "I don't want to."

Embracing Imperfection: The "We Don't Care Club" Manifesto

I explore the growing trend of authenticity on social media, including:

• The Instagram phenomenon of the "We Don't Care Club"
• The conflicting demands for perfection vs. authenticity in content creation
• Why it's okay to show up as you are, even when it's not picture-perfect

Midlife Musings: Navigating New Territories

This episode touches on some uniquely midlife challenges:

• The struggle of naming romantic partners in your 40s and beyond
• How to approach new relationships when you have adult children
• The importance of energy management as we age

A Call for Brussels Sprouts and Kindness

In true stream-of-consciousness style, I share my current obsessions:

• My quest for the best Brussels sprouts recipes (send me yours!)
• The inspiring TikTok life of kindness expert Dr. Christopher Culver
• Why I'm fascinated by the AI baby trend on social media

This episode serves as a reminder that it's okay to have off days, to prioritize rest, and to occasionally set aside societal expectations. Whether you're feeling burnt out, questioning your routines, or just need permission to stay in bed all day, this conversation offers a refreshing perspective on self-care and authenticity in midlife.

Join me for this unscripted, unfiltered look at what happens when a lifestyle coach decides to temporarily hang up her cape and just be human. It's messy, it's real, and it might be just what you need to hear today.

Want to be a guest on the Midlife Catalyst Podcast?

We’d love to hear your story. Whether you’re figuring things out, navigating a big shift, or have something on your heart you want to share, reach out! Visit midlifecatalyst.net or email [email protected].

And don’t forget to subscribe to Amanda’s Substack at amandayounts.substack.com. That’s where all the good stuff lives—episode extras, playlists, journal prompts, and deeper dives into everything we talk about here.

In this candid and deeply personal solo episode, Amanda reflects on five years of sobriety and the transformative lessons she has learned along the way. She shares how getting sober wasn’t just about giving up alcohol—it was about coming home to herself, rebuilding trust, and learning to live with integrity.

Amanda opens up about the complexities of early sobriety, the emotional work of healing without numbing, and the clarity that comes with facing life fully awake. With warmth and candor, she offers insight into what sobriety has taught her about connection, presence, and becoming the person she was always meant to be.

Together, we explore:

• Why sobriety is more than abstinence—it’s about self-reclamation

• The unexpected grief and beauty that come with living un-numbed

• How relationships shift and evolve in sobriety

• The role of daily rituals and emotional honesty in long-term healing

• What it means to choose integrity and self-trust, over and over again

  
  

A few key takeaways:

• You don’t have to hit rock bottom to choose a better life

• Healing requires both gentleness and radical honesty

• Sobriety can be a doorway into deeper purpose, connection, and joy

• The journey is ongoing, and worth it

  
  

The Five Lessons That Changed Amanda’s Life:

• Lesson 1: Never Question the Decision (NQTD)—a guiding mantra through doubt

• Lesson 2: You Don’t Live There Anymore—on identity shifts and owning personal growth

• Lesson 3: Keep Your Side of the Street Clean—emotional sobriety and boundaries

• Lesson 4: Don’t Quit Before the Miracle Happens—learning to see the beauty in the small things

• Lesson 5: It’s an Inside Job—the truth that real change starts from within

  
  

If you’ve ever questioned your relationship with alcohol, felt the pull toward something more honest, or just needed a reminder that change is possible, this episode is for you. Tune in and let Amanda’s reflections offer hope, clarity, and encouragement for wherever you are on your path.

Want to be a guest on the Midlife Catalyst Podcast?

We’d love to hear your story. Whether you’re figuring things out, navigating a big shift, or have something on your heart you want to share, reach out!

Visit midlifecatalyst.net or email [email protected].

And don’t forget to subscribe to Amanda’s Substack at amandayounts.substack.com. That’s where all the good stuff lives—episode extras, playlists, journal prompts, and deeper dives into everything we talk about here.