One of the biggest challenges we face in our 40s and 50s is knowing what feels right—and letting go of what doesn’t. In this episode, Cheryl breaks down the idea of “resonance”—why it matters, why it’s not woo-woo, and how it can guide your decisions about work, relationships, habits, and life in general. 

You’ll learn how to recognize when something no longer fits, how your body and brain signal alignment or dissonance, and what steps you can take to move toward a life that truly resonates with you.

AFTER LISTENING TO THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL KNOW:

• Why making choices that resonate with you is not “woo-woo,” it’s science.
• How your nervous system and subconscious brain influence the decisions you make and how you feel about them.
• Practical ways to notice dissonance in your life without judgment or self-blame.
• Why staying in situations that don’t align drains your energy and increases the risk of burnout.

Your subconscious beliefs can limit your ability to achieve goals if they don’t match your self-image—think of it like a thermostat for success.

Recognizing and responding to dissonance doesn’t mean failure—it means your life or situation has changed, and it’s time to make intentional adjustments.

TAKE ACTION:

• Notice, listen, and reset using the tips shared in this episode.
• Grab the Story Cycle resource at cherylpfischer.com/storycycle. 
• Explore coaching with Cheryl: cherylpfischer.com/coaching
• Subscribe to the Mindset Deep Dive: cherylpfischer.com/bonusepisodes
• Listen to the episodes on tapping and breathwork

Midlife is your time to take even a little bit better care of yourself—on the inside and the outside. Small shifts, mindful choices, and aligning with what resonates can make a huge difference.

Text me to ask a question - I'll answer on the podcast!

Subscribe to receive bonus episodes at cherylpfischer.com/bonusepisodes.

Support the show

🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow midlife women over 40 navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence!

🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us.

💡Want support through menopause, mindset shifts, or midlife transitions?

• Join the collective by subscribing on Patreon or grab the bonus episodes!
• Book a free Mindset Coaching / Intro Call: cherylpfischer.com/coaching

Let’s talk midlife body positivity, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative.

Connect with Cheryl: Instagram | LinkedIn | Website

What if midlife wasn’t the time to slow down—but to get stronger, happier, and more confident in your body than ever before? In this first episode of our Changemakers series, Cheryl talks with Inessa Love, founder of Sassy Silver Surfers and advocate for active aging. Inessa discovered surfing at 50 and says it completely transformed her life—physically, mentally, and emotionally.

She’s now helping women all over the world see that it’s never too late to start something new, get stronger, and have more fun than ever.

What You'll Learn After Listening:

• Why your self-definition about what you “can” or “can’t” do is often the biggest barrier
• The surprising benefits of learning something new in midlife
• What surfing can teach us about strength, joy, and resilience
• How to find your version of movement that you love (and why it doesn’t have to be “exercise”)
• The powerful connection between movement, confidence, and community
• How one 85-year-old cyclist changed Inessa’s perspective on aging forever

Take Action

• Don’t overthink it. Just start. Find something you love, do it with a friend, and keep going. “The more you move, the stronger you become.”
• Follow Inessa Love and her community of midlife surfers on Instagram at @sassysilversurfers or join their private Facebook group for women 50+ who surf (or are surf-curious).

About the Changemakers Series

Changemakers celebrates midlife women who are reinventing themselves—personally, professionally, or both—and inspiring others to do the same.

If you’ve made a big pivot or created something new in midlife, Cheryl wants to hear from you! Click the link below to text Cheryl and let her know.

Text me to ask a question - I'll answer on the podcast!

Subscribe to receive bonus episodes at cherylpfischer.com/bonusepisodes.

Support the show

🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow midlife women over 40 navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence!

🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us.

💡Want support through menopause, mindset shifts, or midlife transitions?

• Join the collective by subscribing on Patreon or grab the bonus episodes!
• Book a free Mindset Coaching / Intro Call: cherylpfischer.com/coaching

Let’s talk midlife body positivity, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative.

Connect with Cheryl: Instagram | LinkedIn | Website

When was the last time you pushed a button just to see what happens? In this episode, Cheryl shares a funny (and surprisingly insightful) story about her Ring camera — and how it led to a big realization about curiosity, confidence, and trying new things in midlife.

If you’ve ever hesitated to try something because you weren’t sure how it would go — whether that’s a new app, a hobby, or even a career change — this one’s for you. Learn why experimenting, exploring, and “trying all the things” is key to staying confident, capable, and excited about life in your 40s, 50s, and beyond.

What You'll Hear:

• How a Ring camera challenge turned into a powerful midlife mindset lesson
• Why we get stuck waiting for permission before we try new things
• What younger generations can teach us about curiosity and exploration
• How “pushing all the buttons” in life builds confidence and resilience
• Simple ways to explore, experiment, and find new joy in midlife

Take Action:

• Think of one thing you’ve been putting off because you’re afraid to mess it up — and go try it this week. 
• Subscribe to the bonus podcast episodes and let's dive deeper into midlife together! (Current mini-series - moving through a job change you didn't want)
• Check out Meetup.com for finding local walking or hobby groups

Key Takeaway:

You can’t discover what’s possible if you’re afraid to tap the buttons. Whether it’s learning a new skill, joining a group, or exploring a hidden passion, midlife is the perfect time to stay curious and try all the things.

Text me to ask a question - I'll answer on the podcast!

Subscribe to receive bonus episodes at cherylpfischer.com/bonusepisodes.

Support the show

🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow midlife women over 40 navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence!

🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us.

💡Want support through menopause, mindset shifts, or midlife transitions?

• Join the collective by subscribing on Patreon or grab the bonus episodes!
• Book a free Mindset Coaching / Intro Call: cherylpfischer.com/coaching

Let’s talk midlife body positivity, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative.

Connect with Cheryl: Instagram | LinkedIn | Website

We know we should exercise. But when moving your body feels like a chore, it’s easy to resist it. What if instead of “should,” we started looking at movement as something joyful, energizing, and protective of our long-term health?

In this episode, I’m joined by Erika Shannon, a fitness and wellness expert with over 20 years of experience. Erika specializes in helping women in perimenopause and menopause find sustainable, empowering ways to move their bodies—without the all-or-nothing approach.

We talk about what women in their 40s and 50s really need from exercise, why strength and functional movement matter so much in midlife, and how you can create fun, flexible workouts that actually fit into your busy life.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why exercise in midlife is about protecting your health span (not just lifespan)
• The six functional movement patterns every woman over 40 should train: push, pull, squat, hinge, carry, and rotate
• How muscle mass, bone density, and heart health change in perimenopause and menopause—and what to do about it
• Simple ways to add “movement snacks” into your day—even if you’re sitting at a desk all day
• The truth about protein, fiber, hydration, and fueling your workouts in midlife

Take Action:

• Connect with Erika at erikashannon.com.
• Grab your free functional workout by subscribing to Mind Your Midlife on Patreon or Substack.
• Take a video of yourself skipping and send it to Cheryl on social! Instagram, LinkedIn
• Listen to the Mind Your Midlife episodes on hydration and hormone health

Remember:

You don’t have to spend hours in the gym to stay strong and healthy. Exercise isn’t just about looking fit—it’s about building resilience, maintaining independence, and living joyfully in your 40s, 50s, and beyond.

Focus on “all or something,” not all or nothing.

Text me to ask a question - I'll answer on the podcast!

Subscribe to receive bonus episodes at cherylpfischer.com/bonusepisodes.

Support the show

🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow midlife women over 40 navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence!

🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us.

💡Want support through menopause, mindset shifts, or midlife transitions?

• Join the collective by subscribing on Patreon or grab the bonus episodes!
• Book a free Mindset Coaching / Intro Call: cherylpfischer.com/coaching

Let’s talk midlife body positivity, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative.

Connect with Cheryl: Instagram | LinkedIn | Website

Episode 51: We feel like we know our parents or older relatives inside and out—but what if there are entire chapters of their lives we've never heard about? Imagine being able to ask the right questions now, so you don’t miss the chance to understand their stories, lessons, and legacies.

In this heartfelt episode, I share why midlife is the perfect time to connect with the older generation in your family. From surprising stories about college rules in the 1960s to powerful questions about values, regrets, and traditions, you’ll discover how simple conversations can deepen relationships and preserve family history for years to come.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

✔ Why asking open-ended questions creates powerful, memorable conversations
 ✔ The surprising reasons we often avoid asking our parents deeper questions
 ✔ Simple ways to make these talks feel natural—not like an interrogation
 ✔ The types of stories and insights that can change how you see your family (and yourself)

🎯 OMG Moment: When an old person dies, a library burns. Every conversation you have now adds to the library you’ll carry forward.

Take Action
Want ideas to get started? Head to Patreon or Substack for a free list of sample questions and tips on how to make these conversations flow naturally.

Why This Episode Matters
As women in midlife, many of us are in the sandwich generation—caring for kids while also supporting aging parents. These conversations aren’t just about collecting stories; they’re about connection, gratitude, and legacy. Asking the right questions now ensures you carry their wisdom forward while also strengthening your bond in the present.

🎧 Hit follow now and join me next week for a conversation about staying active and strong through perimenopause and menopause.

Text me to ask a question - I'll answer on the podcast!

Subscribe to receive bonus episodes at cherylpfischer.com/bonusepisodes.

Support the show

🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow midlife women over 40 navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence!

🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us.

💡Want support through menopause, mindset shifts, or midlife transitions?

• Join the collective by subscribing on Patreon or grab the bonus episodes!
• Book a free Mindset Coaching / Intro Call: cherylpfischer.com/coaching

Let’s talk midlife body positivity, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative.

Connect with Cheryl: Instagram | LinkedIn | Website

Episode 50: Menopause isn’t a maybe—it’s a certainty for every woman lucky enough to live long enough. Yet despite the fact that half the population will experience it, perimenopause and menopause are still some of the most confusing, frustrating, and misunderstood stages of life.

In this empowering episode, Cheryl is joined by Adrian Thompson, PA-C, founder of Vida Women’s Health, who specializes in helping midlife women navigate hormone changes with confidence. Together, we unpack the myths, the medical gaps, and the real options available—so you can walk into your doctor’s office informed, prepared, and ready to advocate for yourself.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

✔ Why so many women over 40 feel dismissed when they bring up menopause symptoms
 ✔ The truth about hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and how safe it really is
 ✔ Non-hormonal treatment options that actually work (and which ones don’t)
 ✔ How to advocate for yourself with your doctor and know when it’s time to get a second opinion

🎯 OMG Moment: Menopause is inevitable, but suffering is not.

Take Action
Before your next doctor’s visit, write down your symptoms, your questions, and your goals for treatment. Being clear on what you need makes it easier to advocate for yourself—and to know if your provider is really listening.

• Connect with Adrian at vidawomenshealth.com, on Instagram @vida_womenshealth, or by email at [email protected].
• Take the fun quiz at cherylpfischer.com/menopausequiz!
• Become a paid subscriber on Substack or Patreon to get the resources for how to talk to your doctor.
• Check out The Menopause Society for lots more!

Why This Episode Matters
Too many midlife women walk out of their doctor’s office feeling dismissed, confused, or hopeless. This conversation will give you the knowledge, language, and confidence to finally get the answers—and the care—you deserve.

Text me to ask a question - I'll answer on the podcast!

Subscribe to receive bonus episodes at cherylpfischer.com/bonusepisodes.

Support the show

🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow midlife women over 40 navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence!

🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us.

💡Want support through menopause, mindset shifts, or midlife transitions?

• Join the collective by subscribing on Patreon or grab the bonus episodes!
• Book a free Mindset Coaching / Intro Call: cherylpfischer.com/coaching

Let’s talk midlife body positivity, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative.

Connect with Cheryl: Instagram | LinkedIn | Website

Episode 49: Ever catch yourself scrolling through social media and suddenly feel… less than? You’re not alone. In this episode of Mind Your Midlife, we dig into why so many women over 40 and 50 fall into the comparison trap and how to break free so you can feel more joy, confidence, and fulfillment in your own life.

This is your official permission slip to stop following the accounts that make you feel down or bad.

I share what’s really happening in your brain when you compare yourself to others, why social media makes this so much worse, and the mindset shifts that can help you feel good in your own skin again. You’ll also hear why authentic relationships and intentional choices are key to building the kind of self confidence that no Instagram highlight reel can shake.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL LEARN:

✔ Why comparison feels so natural for midlife women—and how your brain is wired for it
 ✔ How social media highlights distort your sense of reality
 ✔ The simple questions you can ask yourself to shift out of comparison and into confidence
 ✔ Why community and supportive relationships are the best antidote to comparison
 ✔ How to set powerful intentions before logging onto social media or walking into a group setting

🎯 OMG Moment: Your worth isn’t found in someone else’s highlight reel—it’s built by knowing who you are and what truly matters to you.

Take Action
Notice your triggers. The next time you catch yourself feeling worse after scrolling, jot down what you were looking at and how it made you feel. With awareness comes power—you’ll start to see the patterns and know exactly what to avoid or curate in your feed.

Grab the free Story Cycle resource and start using it.

Why This Episode Matters
Midlife isn’t a time for constant comparison—it’s the time to create your own version of happiness and success. By learning how to spot comparison for what it is, you’ll build the mindset shift that keeps you grounded, joyful, and confident.

🎧 Hit follow now so you don’t miss next week’s episode, where I sit down with a Physician’s Assistant who specializes in hormone health for midlife women.

Text me to ask a question - I'll answer on the podcast!

Subscribe to receive bonus episodes at cherylpfischer.com/bonusepisodes.

Support the show

🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow midlife women over 40 navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence!

🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us.

💡Want support through menopause, mindset shifts, or midlife transitions?

• Join the collective by subscribing on Patreon or grab the bonus episodes!
• Book a free Mindset Coaching / Intro Call: cherylpfischer.com/coaching

Let’s talk midlife body positivity, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative.

Connect with Cheryl: Instagram | LinkedIn | Website

(Episode 48) Ever find yourself asking, “Is this really it?” You’re not alone—and you’re not stuck.

In this empowering episode of Mind Your Midlife, Cheryl Fischer sits down with Dr. Wendy O’Connor, a Stanford-trained positive psychologist and success coach, to talk about what it truly means to thrive as women over 40. We dig into the difference between success and happiness, how to stop living by everyone else’s “shoulds,” and why giving yourself permission to thrive may be the most important self care decision you make in midlife.

Dr. Wendy brings deep insight into why so many midlife women feel unfulfilled even after achieving all the traditional milestones—and how to finally shift your mindset so you can live with confidence, joy, and meaning.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

✔ Why success and happiness are not the same—and why both matter for midlife women
 ✔ How “shoulds” and old roadmaps keep women over 40 and 50 stuck in self-doubt
 ✔ The mindset shift that helps you give yourself permission to thrive without guilt
 ✔ How to move through regret and create your next chapter with clarity and self confidence

🎯 OMG Moment: Happiness is not a luxury—it’s a foundation. Giving yourself permission to redefine your life now is the next step to creating the life you really want.

Take Action

Notice the “nudge.” That little voice inside that asks, Is this really it? or Could life feel better than this? Instead of ignoring it, honor it. That’s your intuition guiding you toward your next chapter.

Connect with Dr. Wendy at drwendyoconnor.com or on Instagram.

Listen to the 'second act' episode with Shannon Russell (episode 32).

Why This Episode Matters

For too long, midlife women have followed a script of “success” that doesn’t always bring fulfillment. This episode is your reminder that midlife is not a crisis—it’s your chance to redefine success, reclaim joy, and create a life that feels meaningful to YOU.

🎧 Hit follow now so you don’t miss a thing!

Text me to ask a question - I'll answer on the podcast!

Subscribe to receive bonus episodes at cherylpfischer.com/bonusepisodes.

Support the show

🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow midlife women over 40 navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence!

🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us.

💡Want support through menopause, mindset shifts, or midlife transitions?

• Join the collective by subscribing on Patreon or grab the bonus episodes!
• Book a free Mindset Coaching / Intro Call: cherylpfischer.com/coaching

Let’s talk midlife body positivity, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative.

Connect with Cheryl: Instagram | LinkedIn | Website

Episode 47: Ever feel like you should be doing more—or maybe the opposite, like you just want to relax but wonder if that’s “enough”? In this Ask Mind Your Midlife episode, I’m tackling your real-life questions about rest, relaxation, and whether midlife women should be pushing harder or giving themselves permission to slow down.

This is about more than just putting your feet up. It’s about mindset shifts, self care, and learning how to listen to what you actually need at this stage of life—whether that’s trying something new, taking a break, or finally letting go of the comparison trap.

BY THE TIME YOU FINISH LISTENING, YOU’LL DISCOVER:

✔ Why some midlife women find it almost impossible to sit still—and how to relax without feeling lazy
 ✔ How overthinking and self-criticism drive us to keep “doing” instead of resting
 ✔ Simple ways to calm your nervous system, even if you’re someone who likes to stay busy
 ✔ Why it’s perfectly okay if you don’t feel like chasing a big new goal in midlife
 ✔ How to stop comparing yourself to everyone else and embrace what feels right for you

🎯 OMG Moment: Rest is not weakness—it’s self confidence in action. When you honor what you truly need, you create more peace, balance, and energy for the life you want.

Take Action
Pause for a minute today. Notice what’s really going on in your head. Are you running from critical thoughts, or are you just naturally energetic? The answer will help you know whether you need more mindset shifts or more mindful self care.

Listen in to these episodes for meditation guides:

10 minute walking meditation

5 minute 'legs up against the wall' meditation idea

Your StoryCycle resource

Coaching - let's chat on a free call

Why This Episode Matters
So many women over 40 and 50 wrestle with questions like, Am I doing enough? Should I be relaxing more? Or should I be making a big change? The truth is, there’s no one right answer. Midlife isn’t about living by other people’s rules—it’s about writing your own. Whether that means chasing a dream or taking a well-deserved break, this episo

Text me to ask a question - I'll answer on the podcast!

Subscribe to receive bonus episodes at cherylpfischer.com/bonusepisodes.

Support the show

🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow midlife women over 40 navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence!

🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us.

💡Want support through menopause, mindset shifts, or midlife transitions?

• Join the collective by subscribing on Patreon or grab the bonus episodes!
• Book a free Mindset Coaching / Intro Call: cherylpfischer.com/coaching

Let’s talk midlife body positivity, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative.

Connect with Cheryl: Instagram | LinkedIn | Website

You’ve probably heard that laughter is the best medicine, and science agrees. But did you know that being funny isn’t something you’re either born with or not? My guest today, Lynn Harris, founder of Gold Comedy, is here to show us that everyone can learn to tap into humor—yes, even you.

In this episode, Lynn shares how comedy is not only a tool for entertainment but also for empowerment, especially for women over 40 and 50 navigating midlife changes. We talk about why women are often conditioned to laugh at jokes instead of making them, how comedy builds confidence, and why humor is such a powerful form of self care.

Lynn also gives practical advice for midlife women who might want to try comedy for fun, personal growth, or even as a new career path. Whether you dream of stepping on stage, adding more lightness into your conversations, or simply boosting your self confidence, this conversation will inspire you to see your funny side in a whole new way.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• Why midlife is the perfect time to embrace your funny side
• How comedy builds confidence and connection
• Practical steps to notice humor in everyday life
• Why humor is one of the most powerful forms of self care for women in midlife

Resources and links mentioned in this episode:

• Connect with Lynn Harris and learn more about Gold Comedy: goldcomedy.com
• Follow Gold Comedy on Instagram: @goldcomedy
• Try laughter yoga! Listen to the MYM episode with Cathy Nesbitt

💛 Join us in Midlife Pivot on Patreon to hear my bonus conversation with Lynn about how to actually get started with comedy - and what we think about the idea of being "too much": www.patreon.com/mindyourmidlife.

Text me to ask a question - I'll answer on the podcast!

Subscribe to receive bonus episodes at cherylpfischer.com/bonusepisodes.

Support the show

🌸 Liked this episode? Share it with fellow midlife women over 40 navigating hormone balance, an empty nest, and/or self-confidence!

🫶 Love this show? Leave a review to help more women over 50 find us.

💡Want support through menopause, mindset shifts, or midlife transitions?

• Join the collective by subscribing on Patreon or grab the bonus episodes!
• Book a free Mindset Coaching / Intro Call: cherylpfischer.com/coaching

Let’s talk midlife body positivity, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative.

Connect with Cheryl: Instagram | LinkedIn | Website