The Inviting Shift Podcast

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Welcome to our cozy corner where we dive into all things perimenopause and menopause with a mix of honesty, humor, and heart! In this chat, we’re sharing our own journeys through the ups and downs of menopause, from the surprising symptoms to the lifestyle tweaks that help us feel our best. We know firsthand how little info is out there, so we’re shining a light on what we’ve learned—especially the importance of talking openly with our partners and each other.

We’ll cover everything from hot flashes to the magic of self-care, and we’re not shying away from the real stuff like how exercise, diet, and even that glass of wine can play a role in how we feel. Plus, Jenny and Christina are here to share why open conversations about women’s health are a game-changer, along with some breathwork tips to help keep calm during those intense moments.

So grab your favorite drink, get comfy, and join us as we explore this transformative stage of life with a little laughter and a lot of love. We’re in this together!

Our Guests:

Peach Grayson is a seasoned writer and dedicated healthcare researcher with over 30 years of experience. Known for her witty and informative series of books titled Let’s Talk Menopause. Peach has managed to strike a perfect balance between humor and education. 

Connect with Peach:
Instagram  |   TikTok  |  Facebook  |  Website

Jamie Bessler is a retired educator. Empty nester. Seeker of personal enrichment. You can find more about Woman Within here.

Jenny Cheifetz is a life and breathwork coach at Jentle Coaching. She lives in New Hampshire with her husband, two teenage children, and two dogs.
She energizes busy, no-bullsh*t women to take back their power, reignite their passions, and step off the sidelines. Her clients want to feel calm, confident, free, and excited about life. 

Connect with Jenny:
Instagram  |  Facebook  |  Website  |  Podcast

Host:

Christina Smith is a life coach specializing in confidence and self-love in midlife so that women can finally truly like themselves and how they show up for themselves and their relationships.

CONNECT with Inviting Shift & Christina on Social:

Instagram  |  Facebook

FREE GIFT: The Confidence Tool Kit is here to help you walk into the second half like a queen (because you are one already). Get it here.

Email me and tell me what you think: [email protected]

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In this conversation, Christina, Jen, and Erica discuss the topics of perfectionism, identity, and letting go of societal expectations. They share personal experiences and insights on how perfectionism can harm one's well-being and how embracing imperfection can lead to personal growth. They also explore the challenges of transitioning identities, particularly as mothers and professionals, and the importance of finding and embracing one's true self. In this conversation, Jen Anderson and Erica Manville discuss mindset changes and embracing imperfections in midlife. They talk about allowing oneself to make mistakes and inspire others to do the same. They also discuss the importance of identifying what is truly important in life and letting go of things that don't bring joy, income, or orgasms. The conversation explores mindset shifts, such as recasting the inner critic and being open to change. The guests share their personal experiences and offer advice on embracing one's uniqueness and staying relevant in midlife.

Our guests:

Professional Imperfectionist Jen Anderson is the tech genius behind Accomplist, the to-do app for imperfect humans. As a coach, she helps people ditch perfectionism and overwhelm. A native New Yorker, she knits and makes mixed media art in Los Angeles, California.

Connect with Jen
Facebook  |  Facebook Group  |  Instagram  |  Website


Erica Manville, M.Ed. is a dynamic blend of mom, teacher, and artist, channeling her energy into nurturing both her family and her students. She lives in East Longmeadow, Massachusetts, with her partner Bryan, their blended family—daughter Ella Blue, son Keith—and their dogs, Pickle and Barley. Erica is deeply committed to anti-racist education, weaving together English and Visual Arts to empower students to navigate the world with awareness. A natural leader, she has been an active member of the Massachusetts Teachers Association and was the founding chair of the North Adams Public Arts Commission.

Connect with Erica on Instagram here.

Host:

Christina Smith is a life coach specializing in confidence and self-love in midlife so that women can finally truly like themselves and how they show up for themselves and their relationships.

CONNECT with Inviting Shift & Christina on Social:

Instagram  |  Facebook

FREE GIFT: The Confidence Tool Kit is here to help you walk into the second half like a queen (because you are one already). Get it here.

Email me and tell me what you think: [email protected]

TUNE IN wherever you listen to podcasts:

• Apple Podcasts/iTunes
• Spotify
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• YouTube Channel
• Inviting Shift Site

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In this episode, we explore the topic of transitions in midlife and the various changes that occur during this phase. Hear our personal experiences and expertise and the importance of intentionality, self-reflection, and cultivating new friendships in midlife. In this chat, we discuss the importance of building and maintaining friendships in midlife and offer advice on how to make new friends and nurture existing relationships. We want to emphasize the idea of embracing change and opening oneself up to new possibilities. We encourage you to tune into your inner desires and pursue what brings you joy.

Our Guests

Bernette Sherman is a multi-passionate creative intuitive who uses her gifts as a writer, intuitive, coach and mentor.  Bernette's work in all areas, including That Shero Life podcast and Shero Life coaching, is aligned with her goal of creating an epic life with more wellness, joy, love, and abundance for herself and other midlife women. She's published twelve books and had two plays produced, with most works featuring sheroes. Bernette also helps aspiring and new authors with self-publishing and public-speaking through her company, Mount Hope Media.

Connect with Bernette:
Substack  |  Instagram  |  Facebook  |  Website

Jamie Bessler is a retired educator. Empty nester. Seeker of personal enrichment.

Maryam Solhjou supports mid-lifers to cultivate intention and wisdom in their relationships so they feel connected and nourished in life's second half.

Connect with Maryam:
Facebook  |  Instagram  |  Website


About Inviting Shift:

CONNECT with Inviting Shift on Social:

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FREE GIFT: The Confidence Tool Kit is here to help you walk into the second half like a queen (because you are one already). Get it here.

Email me and tell me what you think: [email protected]

TUNE IN wherever you listen to podcasts:

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• Inviting Shift Site

Music by Oleksii Kaplunskyi

#transitions #midlife #changes #personalgrowth #friendships #intentionality #friendships #midlife #careertransitions #purpose #change #personalgrowth #selfcare

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Do you feel like you're at war with your own body as you're navigating through midlife? Don't worry, you're not alone. We have the pleasure of hosting Janis Isaman (@mybodycouture), a movement specialist, as our guest in this enlightening episode. She shares her profound insights on the physical, emotional, and intellectual transformations we undergo as we age. Janis debunks the myth that pain and discomfort are inevitable parts of aging and empowers us with pragmatic strategies to maintain a harmonious balance amidst the onslaught of fitness marketing and the temptation to simply throw in the towel.

We continue our engaging dialogue with Janis on how we can adapt mind-body fitness programs to meet the changing needs of our bodies as we grow older. Discover the critical role of hyaluronic acid in maintaining tissue hydration and elasticity and how this impacts our bodies' look and feel. This episode underscores the significance of listening to your body and redefining what feels good for you, rather than seeking external validation. Embark on this journey with us to uncover ways to reduce stress, challenge deeply ingrained beliefs, and cultivate a healthier, more attuned relationship with your midlife body.

ABOUT Janis:
Janis Isaman is a movement specialist based in Calgary, Canada. She is the founder of My Body Couture, a movement therapy studio that provides personalized training and rehabilitation services to clients with chronic pain, injuries, and other movement limitations. Janis has been working in the health and fitness industry for over two decades, and she has extensive training and experience in various movement modalities, including Pilates, yoga, and functional movement.

Janis is known for her holistic and personalized approach to movement therapy, which involves addressing the root cause of movement limitations rather than just treating the symptoms. This includes trauma modalities and she has trained with Bessel van der Kolk’s The Trauma Centre as well as Gabor Mate’s Compassionate Inquiry. She believes that every person's body is unique and that each session should be tailored to each individual's needs and goals. Janis has helped numerous clients overcome chronic pain and improve their physical and mental health through her innovative and effective approach to movement therapy.

CONNECT with Janis:
Website  |  Facebook  |   Instagram  |   Elephant Journal  |  LinkedIn  |  YouTube  

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Join us in the Modern Midlife Mentorship.

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Welcome shifters! Are you ready to face the question we've all been dodging: Who am I now? In the throes of midlife, with our children growing up, careers morphing, and a sudden abundance of free time, let's confront this new stage head-on. No more hiding in the comfort zone! In this episode, we'll seek answers, guided by our values, gifts, and desires. Armed with easy strategies, you'll uncover who you are beyond the roles you've known so far. It's time to embark on this incredible journey of self-discovery and redefine your identity.

In an empowering session, we'll unlock your unique gifts and cravings, aligning them to form your life's vision. Beyond the labels of mother, grandmother, sister, or daughter, you'll explore your true essence and what truly sets your soul on fire. The intentional and aligned approach will be our compass, leading us to pin down our intentions and align our choices with what we desire. The question is no longer 'Who am I now?' but 'Who do I want to become?' Let's delve into the world of possibilities and embrace this new phase with open arms and hearts. Embrace the transformation, shifters! It's time to reveal your true essence.

Join us in the Modern Midlife Mentorship.

Learn more.

CONNECT with Inviting Shift on Social:

Instagram  |  Facebook

Email me and tell me what you think: [email protected]

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Ever thought about how compromise can be the poison pill for your intimate relationship? We tackle this provocative question as we challenge the traditional relationship advice of constant compromise with our esteemed guest, Dr. Alexandra Stockwell, the Intimacy Doctor. Together, we dissect the dangers of passionless relationships and explore the pivotal role of emotional intimacy in keeping the flame alive in long-term bonds.

Dr. Stockwell guides us on this journey to deepen emotional connections. Tune in to uncover how judgment-free curiosity can create a safe space for your loved ones to open up and share their deepest thoughts and feelings, fostering connection, creativity, and diminishing disconnection.

The closing segment of our conversation takes an intimate turn, focusing on communication about sex. This often awkward and tricky topic is handled with sensitivity, with Dr. Stockwell providing a practical guide on initiating and navigating this crucial conversation outside the bedroom. Tune in now!

ABOUT Alexandra:

Alexandra Stockwell, MD, aka “The Intimacy Doctor,” is widely known for her ability to catalyze immediate and profound shifts in high-achieving couples who want it all–genuine emotional connection, sensual passion, and erotic intimacy.

A physician coach and Intimate Marriage Expert, Alexandra is the best-selling author of
“Uncompromising Intimacy,” host of The Intimate Marriage Podcast, as well as a wife of 27 years and a mother of 4. Couples who work with her discover the key to passion, fulfillment, intimacy, and success isn’t compromise–it’s being unwilling to compromise--because when both people feel free to be themselves, the relationship is juicy, erotically alive, and deeply nourishing.

For over 20 years Alexandra has shown men and women how to bring pleasure and purpose into all aspects of their relationship: from the daily grind of running a household to intimate communication and ecstatic experiences in the bedroom–all while achieving extraordinary professional results. She offers private relationship and intimacy coaching, group programs, and independent study courses.

FREE GIFT from our Guest:
The first chapter of Dr. Stockwell's book, "Uncompromising Intimacy." The chapter is called "Is Companionship as Good as it Gets?" about the four main types of relationships and how to have the one you want. Get it here.

CONNECT with Alexandra:

Website  |  Instagram  |  Facebook  |  LinkedIn  |  Youtube  |  Tiktok

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Join us in the Modern Midlife Mentorship.

Learn more.

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Email me and tell me what you think: [email protected]

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Ever felt overwhelmed or powerless? Fret not. This episode is about rediscovering your power and taking charge of your life through setting personal boundaries. I will guide you on how to create a balanced life and tackle the challenging feelings of being overwhelmed. Let's take a deep look into how identifying what we don't want, pinpointing the behavior that contributes to it, and determining what we will do instead can shape the boundaries we need. Remember, it's not about dictating rules, but understanding ourselves and carving a more empowered space for us.

At the heart of this episode lies the profound and empowering act of setting boundaries. We'll explore how this can remarkably influence our relationships. We focus on our non-negotiables, the behaviors that are not serving us well, and how we can alter them. Breaking down the process into three parts: identifying the emotion or trigger, understanding the data related to the situation, and figuring out our desires, we aim to establish boundaries in advance that can lead to a more balanced state and less overwhelming emotions.

Lastly, we dive into empowerment through boundaries. Experience the transformative power of setting clear boundaries in our relationships, learn how to identify your non-negotiables, and gain control over your circumstances. We're here to help you reduce feelings of overwhelm and achieve balance. And if you're unsure about creating a boundary for yourself, we're here to chat. Tune in, get to know yourself better, and discover how boundaries can pave the way for a safer and more empowered personal space. Let's start the journey to a more balanced and empowered life!

Join us in the Modern Midlife Mentorship.

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When relationships shift and evolve during our midlife years, how do we gracefully navigate these changes? That's the question Maryam Solhjou, a resilience and midlife coach, helps us tackle in this episode. Drawing from her deep experience, she guides us to understand that acknowledging the natural progress in our relationships can bring about tranquility and reduce stress. We explore the significance of identifying and managing our emotions during these transitions, and how these changes can often resurrect past hurts, opening an avenue for personal growth and healing.

We then move on to the art of asserting our needs in relationships and taking command of our emotions rather than trying to control the other person. By recognizing what triggers us, we can better manage relationship shifts. The power of setting boundaries also comes into play here, showing us that personal growth can significantly impact our friendships. We further delve into how acknowledging and respecting our diverse backgrounds can prevent conflicts and misunderstandings.

In the concluding part of our discussion, we emphasize the strength of female friendships and the importance of nurturing and developing new connections. We share practical advice on finding like-minded groups using platforms like Meetup and Nextdoor, and how volunteering can broaden our social circles. The golden thread running through this conversation is the imperative of actively creating opportunities for new friendships rather than merely waiting for them to occur. Tune in and learn to navigate the changing dynamics of midlife relationships with resilience and grace.

ABOUT Maryam:
Maryam is a resilience + midlife coach. She's been married for about 35 years, with two adult children and one pup who keeps her on her toes. She has a masters in Org Psy, with a research background in positive psychology and women's psychology. She's struggled (and grown) from navigating midlife's new variables, and she works with her clients to do the same.

FREE GIFT from Maryam:
Get Maryam's Midlife Guide right here.

CONNECT with Maryam:
Website  |  Instagram  |  LinkedIn

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Join us in the Modern Midlife Mentorship.

Learn more.

CONNECT with Inviting Shift on Social:

Instagram  |  Facebook

Email me and tell me what you think: [email protected]

Tune in wherever you listen to podcasts:

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Imagine transforming your relationships into powerful tools for personal growth. That's exactly what we're going to do in this episode, where we unveil the art of nurturing and supporting relationships, particularly in midlife. We begin our journey by shedding light on how to switch from a judgment-based approach to a data-based one when handling conflicts. We also share 10 pivotal guidelines that will help you build and maintain flourishing relationships, and we delve into the power of connection and the significance of getting your needs met.

Do you find conflict resolution challenging? Well, we've got you covered! This episode is all about mastering the skill of effective communication in resolving conflicts. We'll show you how to truly listen, see things from the other person's perspective, and take ownership of your own emotions. We also discuss the importance of establishing boundaries and crafting resolutions that are mutually beneficial. 

In the final part of our episode, we focus on owning our emotions and setting boundaries. We explore the subtle difference between boundaries and requests, and how recognizing our own feelings can lead to more nurturing and supportive relationships. We teach you how to use 'I' statements for effective and honest communication. By the end of this episode, you'll find yourself better equipped to handle brave and vulnerable conversations, manage relationships, and approach conflict in a way that is both respectful and honest. Join us on this transformative journey and turn your relationships into a source of personal growth and fulfillment.

Join us in the Modern Midlife Mentorship.

Learn more.

CONNECT with Inviting Shift on Social:

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Email me and tell me what you think: [email protected]

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Have you ever felt a yearning to stray from the path society has laid out for you? Do you feel a need to redefine your life on your own terms? Our guest today, Trang Nova, knows exactly what that feels like. He bravely ventured off the beaten path, experiencing a quarter-life crisis, leaving his norm, and making the bold decision to start his own business and live life on his terms. Follow us as we unpack his inspiring journey and discover the power of embracing change and growth.

As we traverse the landscape of Trang's life, we uncover how societal norms can box us in, dimming our ability to see the multitude of choices within our reach. Trang's story demonstrates the dissatisfaction that can arise from following these expected paths and the awakening realization that we may not be living our true lives. Tune in as we navigate this complex world of societal expectations and learn how to break free and steer toward the life we truly desire.

Transitioning towards the close of our conversation, we venture into Trang's career switch. We discuss the importance of not letting our past anchor us but using it as a springboard toward our future. He emphasizes that changing course is not a waste of time, but a valuable opportunity to apply past knowledge to new pursuits. The focus shifts to the invaluable power of seeking support during such transitions and the importance of granting ourselves the freedom to take risks and carve our own life paths. Listen in and embolden your journey towards breaking barriers and achieving success.

ABOUT Trang:
Trang Nova is a mentor and speaker for women who are hungry to pivot careers and build their dream business, so they can live out their potential and purpose with freedom and fulfillment.

In her mid-20s, Trang experienced a quarter-life crisis that led her to leave the sports industry so she could help women not just as athletes, but as human beings.

Now, Trang is determined to help others step into their greatest power and thrive in their lives of impact. Ultimately, she believes that when enough individuals are thriving, then humanity will thrive. And when humanity thrives, then the world can thrive for all forms of life and future generations.

FREE GIFT from Trang:
WEEKLY CREATION METHOD 3-step guide to creating mind-blowing weeks of productivity, alignment, and fulfillment! Get it here.

CONNECT with Trang:
Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | Website | Podcast

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Join us in the Modern Midlife Mentorship.

Learn more.

CONNECT with Inviting Shift on Social:

Instagram  |  Facebook

Email me and tell me what you think: [email protected]

Tune in wherever you listen to podcasts:

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• Spotify
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• YouTube Channel
• Inviting Shift Site