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In this episode of the Slow Living podcast, Stephanie and Melessa have an open, compassionate conversation about receiving an adult ADHD diagnosis and a level-1 autism diagnosis later in life—and how finally having answers has completely changed the way Melessa understands herself, her past, and the world around her.

Melessa reflects on growing up without the language or support to explain why she felt different. From being placed in ballet as a child in an attempt to “fit in,” to internalizing expectations that never truly aligned with who she was, she shares how those early experiences shaped her identity. This episode offers deep validation for women navigating late diagnoses, neurodivergence, masking, and self-acceptance in midlife.

The conversation also explores Melessa’s current focus on health and well-being, including weight loss, physical therapy, and the motivation that comes from wanting to stay active and present for her future grandchildren. She speaks candidly about body image, how she approaches those conversations thoughtfully with her four daughters, and why modeling self-respect matters more than perfection.

As the episode unfolds, Melessa gives an update on her writing journey, sharing where she is in the process and how clarity has come from her family’s recent move into a new home. With fewer distractions and more peace, she’s finding balance, healing, and a deeper sense of self-trust.

This is a thoughtful, honest episode for anyone searching for answers later in life, learning to work with their brain instead of against it, or embracing a slow, sustainable path toward growth, clarity, and self-understanding.

Daily Journaling worksheet -- free download: https://stephanieodea.com/daily

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Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcast

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BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE!

In “Coming to Terms with Your Past,” Stephanie and Melessa start with a fun look at the arcade room in Melessa’s new home—fitting since she and her husband met in an arcade in the ’80s. They talk through the emotions of moving, surprising their family with the news, and why big decisions still make Melessa feel like she needs her parents’ approval. They also touch on manifestation and how it has shown up in her life.

Melessa opens up about her mirror homework—telling herself “there is nothing wrong with me”—and why it was harder than expected. The conversation shifts to family patterns, generational ties, and the stories behind old family photos. She reflects on shame, hidden secrets, and her lifelong urge to call out what’s right. It’s an honest, heartfelt episode about self-healing, family history, and personal growth.

Past Episodes You May Love:

• Episode 12: Taking Stock of the Here and Now
• Episode 14: Motivation is a Choice
• Episode 20: Coaching Follow-Up -- Real Clients, Real Results
• Episode 88: Internal Dialogue

Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peace

New Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyou

Join me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/

Website - https://stephanieodea.com

Blog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/

Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcast

Speaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/

Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/

Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/

Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE!

In this episode, Stephanie and Melessa dive into their three-year goals, bucket-list travel dreams, and the very different ways they each experience adventure. From RV road-tripping fantasies to reflections on slow living, Melessa shares how revisiting Stephanie’s Peace Course feels easier this time around—and how she’s been putting real changes into practice. They open up about aging, retirement, and the unique challenges of long-term planning when you’re raising a big family.

The conversation flows into decluttering, time-blocking, and why structure with flexibility helps Melessa stay focused on big goals like writing her book. Stephanie encourages her to approach her creative projects the same way she tackles real-life responsibilities—with intention, deadlines, and heart. They wrap up with a nostalgic look at their teen years and a powerful challenge: to write her own obituary as a way to reflect on her journey and everything she’s accomplished so far.

Past Episodes You May Love:

• Episode 150: Quarter and Midlife Crisis
• Episode 155: Burnout
• Episode 170: Reinventing Yourself
• Episode 175: Bringing Your Vision to Life
• Episode 189: Do It Badly

Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peace

New Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyou

Join me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/

Website - https://stephanieodea.com

Blog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/

Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcast

Speaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/

Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/

Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/

Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE!  

Stephanie and Melessa are now two-thirds of the way through their sessions, and this conversation dives deep into rewriting old beliefs. Melessa opens up about her tendency to overcomplicate things—how her mind feels something must be “hard” to be worthwhile—and how she’s learning to embrace ease and flow instead. Together, they explore the question: Do you have to suffer to succeed? For Melessa, this marks a powerful shift away from her old patterns and toward a mindset that allows success to come without struggle.

The episode also takes a heartfelt turn as Melessa shares how she’s mapping out her upcoming book in three parts—her childhood, young adulthood, and family life—and how this process ties into her growth. She and Stephanie talk about the joy of her family’s move into a new home and how it’s brought them closer. As Melessa reflects on her daughters, she hopes her story shows them strength, resilience, and the beauty of transformation.

Past Episodes You May Love: 

Episode 11: How Woo are You - intersecting belief with action

Episode 42: Listening to The Universe

Episode 104: 3 Year Plan

Episode 106: Manifestation vs Magical Thinking

Episode 153: Slow Parenting Series: Adult Years and Estrangement

Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peace

New Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyou

Join me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/

Website - https://stephanieodea.com

Blog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/

Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcast

Speaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/

Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/

Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/

Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE!

In this episode, Stephanie and Melessa dive into the power of routine—especially how simple habits like a nightly wind-down and consistent sleep with her CPAP have transformed Melessa’s energy and focus. She shares how she’s built a sustainable writing rhythm, dedicating a few hours several days a week to finish her book by year’s end (or stretch goal: March!). It’s all about creating structure that supports both creativity and self-care.

Melessa also opens up about the deeper layers of her family story—balancing honesty and respect as she writes about the women who shaped her. She reflects on the contrast between traditional and nontraditional roles and how she’s learning to honor both perspectives. This conversation is an inspiring look at growth, forgiveness, and finding your authentic voice—perfect for anyone walking their own journey of healing and creative expression.

Past Episodes You May Love:

• Episode 91: Time Blocking
• Episode 96: Feeling the Fear
• Episode 97: Faking It
• Episode 134: Unconditional Love with Love Notes from Mom
• Episode 163: Are You a Perfectionist?
• Episode 164: Recovering from People Pleasing

Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peace

New Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyou

Join me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/

Website - https://stephanieodea.com

Blog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/

Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcast

Speaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/

Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/

Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/

Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE!

In this heartfelt episode, Melessa settles into her new home and begins mapping out her upcoming book. With Stephanie’s guidance, she revisits her goals and creates a fresh three-year plan that reflects who she is today. Together, they explore how to balance ambition, creativity, and self-compassion while embracing change.

Their conversation dives into motherhood, faith, and lifelong friendship. Melessa shares how her Mormon upbringing shaped her family life—and how those influences remain even after leaving the church. Stephanie also challenges Melessa and her husband to imagine their retirement and the later stages of life, sparking a meaningful reflection on growth, purpose, and what truly matters.

Past Episodes You May Love: 

• Episode 26: Stop Delaying Happiness
• Episode 33: Healing Childhood Trauma
• Episode 36: Becoming Resillient 
• Episode 37: How to Find Your Purpose
• Episode 38: Chasing Happiness

Free Daily Journaling Worksheet: stephanieodea.com/daily

Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peace

New Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyou

Join me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/

Website - https://stephanieodea.com

Blog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/

Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcast

Speaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/

Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/

Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/

Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE!

In this heartfelt conversation, Melessa opens up about the creative and emotional journey of writing her first book—a story shaped by resilience, self-discovery, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. As she works to narrow down her book’s focus, Melessa reflects on the pressure of putting her life on paper, from surviving an abusive relationship in her teens to her experiences within—and beyond—the Mormon faith. Alongside Stephanie, she explores what it means to set healthy boundaries and honor her story with honesty and grace.

Together, they discuss the bittersweet transition of leaving the family home where her children grew up and the idea of holding a “closing ceremony” to mark that new beginning. Stephanie also offers creative strategies to help Melessa shape her book—like using voice memos to brainstorm and crafting a theme that reads like a novel. This episode is an inspiring reminder that healing, growth, and storytelling often unfold side by side.

Past Episodes You May Love: 

• Episode 75: Ruth's Slow Living Story
• Episode 109: My Publishing Story(ies)
• Episode 34: Interview with Sandy Cooper; Balancing Motherhood
• Episode 112: Living Your Life Away from Social Media with Sandy Cooper

Free Daily Journaling Worksheet: stephanieodea.com/daily

Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peace

New Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyou

Join me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/

Website - https://stephanieodea.com

Blog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/

Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcast

Speaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/

Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/

Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/

Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE!

In this episode, Melessa and Stephanie catch up on her big move into a new home and the lessons that come with fresh beginnings. As she and her husband sort through what to keep and what to let go, Melessa reflects on how far they’ve come as a couple—learning to communicate better, compromise, and create a space that truly fits this new chapter of life.

Stephanie gives Melessa her latest “homework”: to list what she’s proud of and what she hopes to be proud of next. From raising her kids and managing life during her husband’s deployment to finally landing her dream job in grant writing, Melessa shares how intention and purpose shape her journey. They also chat about Move Your Stuff, Change Your Life by Karen Rauch Carter, exploring how small shifts in your environment—and your mindset—can open the door to love, peace, and possibility.

Past Episodes You May Love: 

Episode 146: Thoughts on being married for 25 years

Episode 189: Do It Badly

Book Link:

Move Your Stuff, Change Your Life: How to Use Feng Shui to Get Love, Money, Respect, and Happiness

Free Daily Journaling Worksheet: stephanieodea.com/daily

Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peace

New Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyou

Join me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/

Website - https://stephanieodea.com

Blog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/

Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcast

Speaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/

Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/

Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/

Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

Book Link:

BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE!

In this heartfelt continuation of Melessa’s first coaching session, she opens up about a recent autism diagnosis and how it’s helping her understand her past while embracing the woman she’s becoming. Together with Stephanie, she explores the “why” behind her life choices—what’s working, what’s not, and how to create more peace and structure in her days.

As the session unfolds, Melessa begins shaping a realistic morning and evening routine while envisioning her dream life 3–5 years from now. Stephanie challenges her to celebrate her wins, dream boldly about her next chapter, and design daily rhythms that align with her values. It’s an inspiring reminder that real growth starts with self-compassion, curiosity, and the courage to reimagine what’s possible.

Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peace

New Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyou

Join me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/

Website - https://stephanieodea.com

Blog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/

Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcast

Speaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/

Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/

Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/

Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/

BUY THE SLOW LIVING BOOK HERE!

In this first coaching session, we meet Melessa—an almost empty nester navigating a midlife transition. After raising five children, she’s now pursuing her dream of nonprofit grant writing, downsizing her home, and embracing the community she always hoped to live in. Diagnosed with ADHD at 50, she shares how cognitive behavioral therapy and tools like ChatGPT help her stay focused and manage life’s challenges.

Stephanie and Melessa dive into midlife coaching topics like creating healthier routines, resisting the hustle, and embracing personal growth. From a travel bucket list challenge with her husband to honest conversations about ADHD support and empty nest adjustments, this episode offers encouragement and practical insight for anyone ready to rediscover themselves in a new season of life.

Past Episodes You May Love: 

• Episode 18: Sleep -- how to get the rest you and your body needs
• Episode 151: Understanding Capacity
• Episode 192: Perimenopause and Being Your Own Expert

Simple Shortcuts to Peace Course - https://stephanieodea.com/peace

New Year, New You Mini Challenge - https://stephanieodea.com/newyou

Join me for my LIVE Masterclass - https://stephanieodea.com/masterclass/

Website - https://stephanieodea.com

Blog - https://stephanieodea.com/blog/

Slow Living Podcast - https://stephanieodea.com/podcast

Speaking Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/speaking/

Coaching Opportunities - https://stephanieodea.com/coaching/

Courses - https://stephanieodea.com/courses/

Contact - stephanieodea.com/contact/