This is our first episode of the new year, and instead of resolutions, we’re talking about adding things to your daily and weekly routine that will help bring about your best life in 2026. Listen in for all of the helpful things we will be sharing including:

- Health & wellness tips

- Family & Friendship tips

- Community, Career & Purpose-driven life tips 

- The tools we’re using that actually work - Wearable technology, Infrared saunas for the home, Red Light Therapy Face Masks, etc.

At Midlife Talkshop, you'll find real conversations, real life lessons and that one “Golden Nugget” you can take into your week!

Tell us — what’s your one word mantra, phrase or intention for this year?

Listen now on all streaming platforms...

Links for Mentions in this Episode:

Midlife Talkshop: 

https://linktr.ee/midlifetalkshoppodcast

Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/midlifetalkshop/

Facebook Page:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61580265428576

YouTube:

https://www.youtube.com/@MidlifeTalkshopPodcast

What if midlife isn’t about slowing down—but about a creative and meaningful comeback?

On this episode of Midlife Talkshop, we sit down with Steve Van Dam, founding member of the 90s band Everything, best known for their hit song “Who Got the Hooch?” Steve shares stories from the road, touring with iconic bands like Dave Matthews Band, and what it’s been like to reunite with his band nearly 30 years later for a comeback tour.

But this conversation goes beyond nostalgia. Steve is also the founder of Light The Music, an organization bringing music creation into schools and community centers, especially for underserved communities, giving young people access to creativity, confidence, and hope for a brighter future.

In this episode, we talk about:

The Golden nugget from this episode:

Whether you’re navigating midlife, dreaming of a second act, or just love great stories from the music world, this episode will inspire you to see midlife as a time of opportunity and growth.

Listen and follow Midlife Talkshop for more conversations that prove your best chapter is ahead.

Links for mentions in this episode:

“A Peaceful Christmas” — Creating a Season with Less Stress and More Meaning.  In midlife, over the holidays we don’t need chaos.  We need peace, purpose, and connection.

In this episode, we cover:

You'll Follow along for Guided Prompts to:

-Bonus: At the end of the episode, Rhonda & Shannon share their Top Gift Ideas (with links).

Rhonda & Shannon’s Top Gift Ideas

Experiences over Stuff!- Art & Crafts Class- Year round passes to Amusement Park- Spa Giftcards for Facials, Massages & Nails-Wellness Therapy Giftcards for Red Light Therapy, Hot/Cold Therapy, Vibroacoustic, Salt Cave, Float Studio

Shannon’s Favorite Gift Ideas: 

Therasage Infrared Sauna

https://amzn.to/4iEMQWe;

Shark CryoGlow LED Face Mask

https://amzn.to/4iBnpox;

Super Agers: An Evidence-Based Approach to Longevity by Eric Topol, MD

https://amzn.to/4awDWYF

Rhonda’s Favorite Gift Ideas:

Meat Injector Syringe (for flavorful cooking over the holidays)

https://amzn.to/48v8reY;

Vitamix Blender

https://amzn.to/4rAEIKe

Charities:

Rhonda’s Charities of Choice - St Jude Impact the lives of St. Jude kids - St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital; Girls to Women Girls2Women-VA | Empowering girls through group mentoring

Shannon’s Charities of Choice - Chesterfield County animal shelter Amazon Wish list Amazon.com; Monetary Donations To make a monetary donation, checks can be mailed to the animal shelter at 9300 Public Works Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832. Make checks payable to Chesterfield County Police Foundationwith Animal Services Donation as the subject;  Chesterfield County Christmas Mother - Give Help | CCH Christmas Mother

Episode 11 is HERE… and it’s a game changer. If you’ve ever stood in front of a closet, a pantry, or that one room in your house thinking, “Where do I even start?” — this one’s for you. This week on Midlife Talkshop, we sit down with a professional decluttering expert who knows exactly why we get stuck… and how to finally create space that feels calm, clear, and peaceful again. She breaks down the mindset, the method, and the magic behind letting go — and trust me, you’re going to feel SO inspired to take action after this episode. Tune in and get ready to make space for a lighter, brighter life. Find Mary and Declutter My House on Instagram @DeclutterMyHouseRVA. Find Midlife Talkshop on Podbean, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, Instagram & Facebook.

Rhonda & Shannon sit down with Personal Trainer & Nutrition Coach, Siobhan Carlton to talk about the 6 pillars of her "Metabolism Makeover for Midlife" Masterclass. You can find Siobhan online at: www.HealthyLivingWithSiobhan.com  and on Instagram @SiobhanCarlton.

Rhonda and Shannon sit down with author and founder of To Be, Coaching + Consulting, Dr. Amber Tichenor, PhD to discuss her latest book, "Behind Frenemy Lines - Rising Above Female Rivalry to be Unstoppable Together". Amber is deeply passionate about addressing the phenomenon of rivalry between women and she consults with organizations on the importance of bringing this to light, what it looks like in the workplace, the challenges and behaviors it presents along with coping and recovery steps. Together they unpack tips for navigating female rivalry and "mean girl" behavior-- even in midlife. Find Amber Tichenor online https://www.drambertichenorphd.com/ and purchase the book "Behind Frenemy Lines" on Amazon https://a.co/d/fJrE26g

Rhonda & Shannon invite their first Podcast guest onto the show-- Best-selling author, international motivational speaker, actor, radio host and life coach, John Seeley M.A. Having worked with many of the top teachers and visionaries, John uses his extensive knowledge and wisdom to transform people worldwide. We talk about one of his incredible books, "Get Unstuck Now" and how people can find their healing path to resolve their issues and create different results in their lives. Find John online at https://bluemoonwonders.com/ Order "Get Unstuck Now" on Amazon: https://a.co/d/ate211W

Rhonda and Shannon dive into simple, meaningful ways to kick off the school year feeling calm, organized, and connected. They share real-life tips for keeping your mind and body healthy, finding balance in the chaos, and offering those reassuring “Mom moments” our kids need most.

In this episode, Rhonda and Shannon remind us that self-care isn’t selfish — it’s essential. Discover how to weave physical, mental, spiritual, and social care into your weekly routine to nurture your whole self and live with greater peace and purpose. Email us with questions or requests for topics to cover in our next episode: [email protected]

Rhonda and Shannon explore four key pillars that can boost your longevity — Sleep, Nutrition, Exercise, and Mindset. They share simple, practical tips to help you make small but powerful changes that support a longer, healthier, and more vibrant life. Tune in for inspiration, encouragement, and a few laughs along the way as they remind us that living well starts with everyday choices.