Has your 9-5 lost its spark? If what once excited you now feels like a grind, it might be time for a change. Shannon Russell, CEO of Second Act Success, joins me to share her journey and expert advice on transitioning to a career that aligns with your purpose and brings fulfillment.

After a successful career in TV production, Shannon pivoted to entrepreneurship to gain freedom and flexibility. Through self-reflection, she identified her values—family time and creating meaningful work—and built a business on her own terms.

Key Lessons from Shannon:

• Overcome Self-Doubt: Your skills and experiences form a "lifelong resume" that proves you can succeed in a new venture.
• Redefine Success: Moving to a purpose-driven career means shifting your definition of achievement to align with what truly matters to you.

Practical Steps for Your Career Transition:

1. Reflect: List all your personal and professional titles to recognize your skills and unique experiences.
2. Research: Explore 2-3 business ideas you’re passionate about while still in your current job.
3. Start Small: Take consistent, small steps daily to build momentum toward your dream career.

Shannon’s story reminds us that career transitions take perseverance and purpose. By focusing on your values and taking actionable steps, you can create a career you love at any stage of life.

Episode links:

Register for Heike's Pursue Your Spark Blueprint Course

Have a question about staying consistent with healthy habits or creating a fitness routine for your busy midlife? Send it my way, and I’ll answer it on air!

Connect with Shannon:

• Website 

• Facebook

• Instagram

• LinkedIn

• YouTube

Feeling overwhelmed and stuck in midlife? You’re not alone. For many women over 50, juggling commitments and trying to keep up with wellness trends can feel like an uphill battle. The good news? Overcoming overwhelm doesn’t require big resolutions or drastic overhauls—it’s about starting small and focusing on what truly matters. That’s exactly what we explore in episode 227: Tiny Shifts to Beat Overwhelm in Midlife.

We explore why feeling stuck is common and how recognizing it is the first step toward change. Whether repeating the same routines or saying yes when you want to say no, identifying what’s draining your energy helps you move forward.

From there, we explore the power of tiny, consistent actions—like adding a 5-minute habit—that creates momentum without adding stress.

This episode also helps you challenge limiting beliefs, like “It’s too late for me,” and reframe your mindset to make space for growth. We’ll even tackle guilt, a familiar but surprising sign that you’re breaking old patterns and prioritizing what truly matters.

If you’re ready to get unstuck and gain clarity, this episode offers actionable tips to help you shift from overwhelmed to thriving—one small step at a time. Start today by picking just one insight to apply this week. Progress isn’t about perfection but building habits that fit your life and goals.

Big changes start with small, consistent actions. If you’re ready for more support in overcoming overwhelm and gaining clarity, my Pursue Your Spark Blueprint will guide you. Starting January 6th, we’ll take it step-by-step, making it simple, achievable, and tailored to your busy life.

Here is the link to see if you’re a good fit for the program.

Links Mentioned In The Show:

• Pursue Your Spark Blueprint
• Eps. 224.- 5 Transformative Habits For Midlife Mastery
• Join my pre-launch book release

Ever feel like you’re caught in that cycle of wanting to make a change, but somehow, it never quite sticks? Maybe you’re searching for that spark—that extra push to finally put yourself first and see actual results. But what if it’s not about wanting at all but actually committing?

Today, we’re diving into this big shift with Allan Misner, a fitness and nutrition coach for people over 40 who has been right where you are. He knows what it takes to turn the desire for change into real, lasting action. Together, we’ll explore his story, the lessons he’s picked up along the way, and some surprising truths about motivation that might flip your whole approach on its head.

In this episode, I sit down with Coach Allan Misner. Allan is a NASM-certified personal Trainer, Precision Nutrition Level II Master Health Coach, and FAI-certified Functional Aging Specialist. He’s also the host of the 40+ Fitness Podcast, the go-to show for health over 40, and the author of The Wellness Roadmap, a straightforward guide to staying fit after 40.

Allan shares his journey of getting back into shape to stay active in his daughter’s life. This decision led to a big commitment to his health. Over eight months, he lost 66 pounds of fat, gained 11 pounds of muscle, and took on a Tough Mudder race!

We dive into how he finds the right mindset to stay committed, using ideas like the “Atlas” and “Pedals” mindsets to help clients stay focused without burnout.

Allan also shares his thoughts on staying independent and capable as we age. He believes in building small, consistent habits that align with our values, making fitness something we actually want to stick with. His story is a great reminder real progress comes from knowing yourself and committing to your goals.

How to connect with Allan:

• 40plusfitness.com
• 40plusfitnesspodcast.com
•  facebook.com/allan.misner.CPT,
• facebook.com/40plusfitnesspodcast
• linkedin.com/in/coachallan
• youtube.com/channel/UC3hTAx0L62wT6JL04aQWu6Q

Ever feel like you’re showing up and putting in the work, but somehow, it doesn’t seem to add up? Building Strength Without Self-Judgment in Midlife can be tricky, especially when you’ve set a strength goal—like lifting heavier, trying a new move, or just feeling stronger every day—but it feels like no matter what you do, it’s never quite enough. Sound familiar?

In today’s episode, we’re diving into that feeling we know too well: the self-judgment that sneaks in and makes us feel like we should be further along. We’ll unpack why this happens, especially for those of us in midlife, and how to let go of those 'shoulds' that don’t serve us. Instead, we’ll focus on a new way to look at progress that actually feels good.

Take, for example, a recent conversation with a frustrated client about her pull-up progress. She found herself thinking, “I should be stronger by now.” And this wasn’t just about pull-ups; it was about that nagging feeling of “not good enough.” We often carry an invisible checklist of where we think we should be, which adds unnecessary pressure. 

In this episode, we’ll examine why “shoulds” are so common and how letting go of them can help us celebrate small wins. We’ll also discuss redefining strength as a physical measure, resilience, persistence, and showing up for ourselves.

By the end, you’ll have simple, practical tools to shift your mindset, letting you celebrate the strength you’re building without frustration. This episode is about making fitness feel like a win for you—because you deserve to see and feel how far you’ve come. Tune in and start building strength with kindness and self-compassion.

Take Action:

If you want to become stronger mentally and physically, check out the Pursue Your Spark Blueprint. This 8-week program is designed for midlife women ready to make fundamental, lasting changes without self-judgment. Click this link to see if you’re a good fit for the program.

Links mentioned:

• Ep. 211 Midlife Mindset Shifts To Strength and Flexibility 
• Pursue Your Spark Blueprint

Are you feeling the weight of caring for aging parents while juggling everything else on your plate? You’re definitely not alone. So many of us are in this boat, wondering if we’re doing enough or if it’s time to get extra support. That’s why I’m sitting down today with Senior Care Advisor for Pacific Northwest Seniorcare, Lynn Smargis, to find out how to build your caregiving dream team.

Lynn, who’s encountered the Gen X “sandwich generation” challenge firsthand, shares practical advice on distinguishing between Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care. She offers a compassionate guide to making confident decisions for loved ones and navigating the often-overwhelming journey of seeking additional support.

We also discuss the emotional side of caregiving—overcoming guilt, setting healthy boundaries, and the importance of open family communication to reduce stress. Lynn’s straightforward advice on self-care and building a strong support network will resonate with anyone in a caregiving role.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone in eldercare. It offers the tools and insights to build your caregiving dream team, from managing expectations to creating a collaborative, supportive environment!

Finally, we emphasize the importance of self-care for caregivers. Her approach is about creating a collaborative, supportive environment where everyone thrives. So, if you’re navigating eldercare, this episode will give you the tools and insights to build your caregiving dream team!

If today’s episode hits home and you have questions or want to share your thoughts, send me a DM on Instagram at @heikeyates. I’d love to hear from you!

Take Action: 

And if you’re ready to take charge of your health and build actual, lasting habits, check out the Pursue Your Spark Blueprint. It’s my 8-week program designed to help you feel stronger and more energized and finally make yourself a priority. Here is the link to see if you're a good fit for the program. I’d love to have you join us!

Connect with Lynn here:

• YouTube
• Facebook Page
• Instagram
• LinkedIn

Ever struggle with something as simple as putting on socks or lifting a bag of groceries and think, "Is this what getting older feels like?" You're not alone. We tackle these common frustrations head-on in Podcast Episode 223: Why You Need to Change Your Workout After 40.

Picture this: you're battling your socks every morning, hopping around on one foot, maybe even taking a tumble. It could be a more graceful way to start your day. But what if I told you there's a type of exercise that can make these everyday tasks easier, boost your strength, and keep you moving effortlessly through life?

In this episode, we explore the world of functional fitness. It's a game-changer that will redefine how you think about staying fit and active, especially as you age. Functional fitness isn't just about traditional workouts that isolate specific muscles. Instead, it focuses on exercises that mimic everyday movements. 

Functional fitness helps improve one's ability to perform daily tasks efficiently. Whether lifting a heavy laundry basket or reaching for something on a high shelf, functional fitness can make these activities easier and safer.

We'll explore why this type of training is crucial for active adults who want to stay strong and healthy for life. And let's talk emotions—struggling with everyday tasks can be frustrating, even disheartening.

Ready to transform your routine and embrace a more active, vibrant life? This episode will discuss practical steps to incorporate functional exercises into your weekly routine. You'll learn how to start small, stay consistent, and focus on movements that make daily life easier and more enjoyable.

Take advantage of this episode, where you'll discover the secrets of functional fitness and why changing your workout after 40 is a must.

If you're ready to transform your routine and embrace a more active, vibrant life, I'd love to help you get started. Email me at [email protected] with the subject "functional" to learn more and start your journey today.

Take Action: 

You’ve just heard how others have transformed their lives with the Pursue Your Spark Blueprint—going from feeling drained and stuck to confident and in control of their health. If you’re ready to make that shift, check it out yourself! Here’s the link to learn more.

Links mentioned:

• Pursue Your Spark Blueprint
• #90 The Best Exercises For Women Over 50
•  #217 Lessons from the Blue Zones

Cancer doesn't wait, nor should you. Whether you're facing cancer yourself or supporting someone who is, this episode with Deb Krier will give you the tools and mindset to take action today. Don’t settle—fight back now. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and today's episode, 'Stop Settling for 'Fine'—Fight Cancer Now,' is a must-listen.

Deb Krier is an entrepreneur, cancer advocate, and the visionary behind tryingnottodie.LIVE. Diagnosed with Stage 4 triple-positive breast cancer in 2015 and thyroid cancer in 2023, Deb has transformed her challenges into a mission to help others.

Deb shares how to move beyond just being 'fine' with cancer. We discuss her deeply personal moments from her cancer journey that profoundly impacted her outlook on life and how having cancer has changed her self-perception and work. She offers advice on coping with fear and provides insights on how her business skills have helped her deal with cancer—lessons others can learn from.

She also talks about the unique initiatives of tryingnottodie.LIVE, including special projects that make a significant difference in the lives of cancer patients. We discuss the importance of a support system, with practical advice for building a supportive network, and address the feeling of being overwhelmed and disconnected after a cancer diagnosis.

Finally, we discuss the legacy she hopes to leave through her work and its potential impact on future generations of cancer patients and survivors.

Send an email to [email protected] with the subject line ‘Cancer’ and let us know how this episode resonated with you or share your story.

If you are looking for a certified Pilates Breast Cancer Survivor Coach, please contact me at [email protected] and let me know how I can help you.

Take Action:

You’ve just heard how others have transformed their lives with the Pursue Your Spark Blueprint—going from feeling drained and stuck to confident and in control of their health. If you’re ready to make that shift too, check it out for yourself! Here’s the link to learn more!

How To Connect With Deb:

• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• Website
• Bear Hug Care Package

Links Mentioned In The Show:

• Pursue Your Spark Blueprint Course

Are you curious about how to rethink your relationship with alcohol, especially as we head into fall and the holiday season? It’s that time of year when we reflect on our habits, and for many of us, that includes those casual evening drinks that might have crept into our routine over the summer. We'll In Episode #221 – Transform Your Relationship with Alcohol Now, I dive into how to create a healthy, mindful relationship with alcohol that works for you, without the pressure to go all-in or all-out.

Whether you’ve tried Sober October or another month-long break from alcohol, you may have noticed how challenging it can be to go cold turkey—and how easy it is to feel deprived and binge afterward.

But it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Instead of white-knuckling through a month without alcohol, let’s explore how to make lasting changes that fit your lifestyle. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s about creating a healthy balance that works for you. Maybe it’s cutting back gradually or finding new ways to unwind without constantly reaching for a drink.

In this episode, I discuss the deeper reasons we might rely on alcohol to cope with stress or connect with others and how to replace that habit with positive actions. I’ll share three effective strategies to help you reset your relationship with alcohol, feel empowered, and avoid the all-or-nothing mentality. You’ll discover how exercise, mindful eating, and simple mindset shifts can make a big difference. It’s time to feel good about your choices without the pressure to be perfect.

Have any thoughts on this? Comment the word ‘SOBER’ and tell me how you approach your alcohol intake—I’d love to hear from you!

Client Testimonial:

🥰 "At 57, I was tired of starting diets I couldn’t stick to, but the Pursue Your Spark Blueprint changed everything. It made Intermittent Fasting and Pilates simple to follow, and within weeks, I had more energy and was finally in control of my health. I feel like myself again—more energized and confident than ever”! - Susan

Take Action:

Ready to start your transformation? Click here to learn more about the Pursue Your Spark Blueprint!

Links Mentioned In The Show:

• #130 Changing Your Alcohol Habits/ Ft. Molly Watts
• #198 How Quitting Alcohol for a Month Can Boost Your Health
• The Pursue Your Spark Blueprint

Struggling with insomnia in midlife? It might be trying to tell you something important. In “What Your Midlife Insomnia Is Trying to Tell You,” we explore how sleep patterns change as we age and the unexpected reasons behind restless nights.

Our expert guest, Martha Lewis, founder of The Sleep Detective, shares how mastering your sleep routine can be life-changing. Her journey started with her son Parker's sleep troubles, leading her to help others find their way to restful nights. Tune in to learn how you can finally get the sleep you deserve.

Martha is not just any expert; she's a certified sleep expert, functional health coach, and the visionary founder behind The Sleep Detective. With an approach beyond the surface level of sleep advice, Martha dives into the physiological and psychological factors contributing to insomnia, offering innovative and effective solutions.

She talks about what to do when you can't fall asleep, natural remedies for insomnia, why you have trouble sleeping, and what causes chronic insomnia. But what do you do when you can't fall asleep? What are the natural remedies for insomnia? Why do you have trouble sleeping? And what causes chronic insomnia?

Martha's advice regarding diet’s impact on sleep is clear and actionable. She discusses how maintaining stable blood sugar levels through the night can be a game-changer for those who wake up when the world is still asleep.

Martha addresses the concept of 'positive intelligence' and shares how, surprisingly, mindfulness and meditation have been the keys to unlocking better sleep for many of her clients. Plus, she gives us her take on intermittent fasting's role in enhancing sleep quality, shedding light on how our eating patterns influence our nights.

For anyone tossing and turning at 3 a.m., Martha provides straightforward strategies to help ease back into sleep. She challenges the notion of sleep debt and discusses the potential benefits of naps for women in midlife.

Dive in with us as Martha Lewis, The Sleep Detective, uncovers the secrets to conquering those 3 am wake-ups and transforming our nights into a haven of restful sleep.

We would love to hear about your troubles and successes in dealing with insomnia or any questions you might have. Send an email to [email protected] with the word ‘Insomnia’ in the subject line to share your thoughts. 

Connect with Martha here:

• Website
• Instagram
• Facebook

Links mentioned in the show:

• Fasted + Fit Over 50 Jump Start

Can you believe summer is over already? If you’re struggling to shift gears, I've got the perfect tip to help you find your footing this fall. From flip-flops to focus, it’s time to reclaim your fall routine! Trust me, you won’t want to miss this!

After a busy summer, taking a moment to reclaim our personal space and time is essential. It helps us prioritize our mental well-being and boost productivity. Today, I’m sharing how to find clarity after summer with a powerful yet simple practice that can make all the difference in your routine.

What’s this game-changing tip? It involves dedicating time just for you—no kids, work, or distractions. It’s like hitting the reset button for your mind, body, and soul. Unlike vacations that often come with their own set of responsibilities, this practice is all about focusing on yourself and what you need.

Planning this special time is easy. Find a quiet space at home or a peaceful spot nearby. Set a schedule with activities that help you relax and recharge, like meditation, journaling, reading, or taking a nature walk. The goal is to do things that bring you peace and clarity, helping you get back into your fall routine.

Incorporating this practice can bring many benefits. It clears mental clutter, improves self-awareness, and boosts productivity and creativity. It’s a way to disconnect from daily life and reconnect with yourself, making your routine smoother and more enjoyable.

Start gradually, re-establish your workout schedule, and focus on balanced meals to ease back into your wellness routine. Remember, it’s okay to take it step by step as you reclaim your fall routine.

So, what’s the #1 thing you must do after summer? Listen to the full episode to discover how this simple practice can help you reset and prepare for the rest of the year. You deserve this time for yourself; it can make a big difference in how you feel and manage your fall routine.

Comment the word "flip-flops," and let me know how the episode resonated with you and what steps you took. You can also reach out to me directly at [email protected].

Links mentioned in the show:

• #207 – 6 Ways To Redefine Courage In Midlife
•  #211 Midlife Mindset Shifts To Strength and Flexibility
• Fasted + Fit Over 50 Jumpstart