Ever find yourself caught in a spiral of complaint conversations that leave you feeling drained and pessimistic? Host Karen returns to ThirtyFiveSixtyFour after a year-long hiatus following an electrical fire, bringing hard-won wisdom about breaking free from what she calls “the negativity vortex.” Despite naturally leaning 80% positive, Karen discovered how easily she and her best friend had slipped into daily phone calls dominated by complaints about rising costs, work stress, and life’s general difficulties. What started as relating and supporting each other had morphed into a destructive pattern that fed on itself, gaining momentum like a psychological tornado.

Ready to escape your own negativity spiral? Karen shares her four-step recovery plan that transformed weeks of doom-scrolling conversations into uplifting daily exchanges. The solution isn’t about forced gratitude or toxic positivity—it’s about intentionally training your brain to notice what’s actually going well in real-time. Through a simple seven-day texting experiment with her friend, Karen demonstrates how our confirmation bias works both ways: if we look for problems, we’ll find them everywhere, but if we actively seek out small wins and smooth moments, those multiply too. Listeners will discover practical strategies for identifying when they’re stuck in the vortex, recruiting accountability partners, and rewiring their mental focus toward what’s working rather than what’s broken.

In this episode:

Resources:

ThirtyFiveSixtyFour WebsiteNew Tip/Donation Button

About:

ThirtyFiveSixtyFour is a podcast for listeners between the ages of 35 and 64. Available on all major podcast platforms, the show offers an engaging journey through the various challenges and experiences of midlife. ThirtyFiveSixtyFour presents a distinct departure from the traditional midlife crisis storyline. Instead, it champions the perspective that midlife should be viewed as a period marked by play, discovery, transformation and possibility.

If you find our stories and conversations valuable, your contribution helps cover the behind-the-scenes costs of keeping this podcast running.

Leave a tip or donation here → https://thirtyfivesixtyfour.com/donate/

Watch & Subscribe on YouTube → https://youtube.com/channel/UCUMAMJFx9trP1ixYD8uEs4A?reload=9  Listen & Subscribe on Spotify → https://open.spotify.com/show/6jJtEh0WpglPGlZ9qnGHKL  Listen & Subscribe on Apple Music → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/thirtyfivesixtyfour/id1733505174

Read our middle age blogs and access transcripts and detailed show notes for ThirtyFiveSixtyFour → https://thirtyfivesixtyfour.com

Follow us on social for middle age inspiration:Instagram → https://instagram.com/thirtyfivesixtyfour_/TikTok → https://tiktok.com/@3564podcast

Ever secretly eye that bold piece in the store window while playing it safe? Saratta Murphy brings fearless wisdom about redefining life and fashion after 40—without losing yourself in the process.

From running two Texas businesses to relocating across the country just weeks after burying her father, Saratta now inspires thousands of Gen X women as a content creator and influencer. She and Karen explore conquering educational goals later in life and navigating grief while pursuing dreams. Saratta's challenge: "I am fearing less of what other people think and appreciating who I am, showing up just as that."

Transform your "I don't know how to dress" anxiety into "I'm going to try that pink scarf" excitement. Saratta shares how clients moved from "boring wardrobe" moments to authentic style expression. That blazer you've been eyeing? These aren't fashion mistakes—they're style evolution opportunities. The conversation covers supporting friends through loss and the gift of moving in silence until you're ready to share big dreams. Listeners get actionable style tips, grief support wisdom, and mastering what Saratta calls "shopping your own closet."

Saratta Murphy, 48, is a Gen X content creator, influencer, and authentic life enthusiast. She earned her MBA and marketing degree in nine months while processing grief and major life changes. After building two successful businesses, burying her father, and relocating cross-country within two weeks, she now empowers women to show up authentically. Her philosophy: "fearing less of what other people think" while focusing on practical wisdom over perfection.

Episode Breakdown:

(00:00) Introducing Saratta Murphy: From business owner to content creator

ThirtyFiveSixtyFour is a podcast for listeners between the ages of 35 and 64. Available on all major podcast platforms, the show offers an engaging journey through the various challenges and experiences of midlife. ThirtyFiveSixtyFour presents a distinct departure from the traditional midlife crisis storyline. Instead, it champions the perspective that midlife should be viewed as a period marked by play, discovery, transformation and possibility.

Resources:

SaRatta's Instagram: https://instagram.com/the_unimaginedlife

_________________________

Watch & Subscribe ✅ on YouTube → https://youtube.com/channel/UCUMAMJFx9trP1ixYD8uEs4A?reload=9 

Read our middle age blogs and access detailed show notes for ThirtyFiveSixtyFour: Website → http://thirtyfivesixtyfour.com

Follow us on social for middle age inspiration:

Is your midlife crisis actually your soul demanding a rebirth? 

Midlife crisis or midlife opportunity? Tina LeAnn Erdmann brings refreshing wisdom to ThirtyFiveSixtyFour about embracing life's second act. Ever felt stuck in patterns that once worked but now feel suffocating? Tina's been there. After two decades in corporate America, she ditched the corner office to become a mindset coach helping others navigate their own transitions. Karen and Tina laugh about the classic signs—impulse purchases, existential dread, and that nagging question: "Is this all there is?" But Tina challenges listeners to reframe: "Your midlife crisis is actually your soul demanding rebirth." Her three-step approach offers practical ways to transform breakdown into breakthrough. 

Ready to convert your midlife panic into purposeful passion? Tina shares vulnerable stories of clients who transformed their "oh no" moments into "aha" revelations. Remember that vintage motorcycle gathering dust in your garage? Or the half-finished novel in your drawer? Tina explains why these aren't failures but breadcrumbs leading to your authentic path. The conversation takes a powerful turn when discussing midlife's ultimate gift: the courage to disappoint others to reclaim yourself. "People-pleasing is a young person's game," Tina quips. Listeners will walk away with actionable strategies for identifying their "rebirth signals" and embracing what Tina calls "the most creatively fertile period of your entire life." 

ThirtyFiveSixtyFour is a podcast for listeners between the ages of 35 and 64. Available on all major podcast platforms, the show offers an engaging journey through the various challenges and experiences of midlife. ThirtyFiveSixtyFour presents a distinct departure from the traditional midlife crisis storyline. Instead, it champions the perspective that midlife should be viewed as a period marked by play, discovery, transformation and possibility. With new episodes released weekly, ThirtyFiveSixtyFour is positioned to become one of the fastest-growing podcasts of the year, providing both valuable insights and entertainment for those in the middle. 

Resources: 

What if being in your fifties is actually the best age to be? 

Franck Pedretti gets real about embracing the middle years in this entertaining episode of ThirtyFiveSixtyFour. A former professional snowboarder turned French TV host and filmmaker, Franck brings his European perspective to aging with humor and wisdom. Ever find yourself feeling caught between your youthful brain and your middle-aged body? Franck has. He shares how his mind still says "backflip" while his back screams "chiropractor appointment first!" But there's something beautifully liberating about this stage too. "When you're 51, you're young in the club of five-zero," he says with characteristic charm. The secret to thriving? Accept your limitations, maintain your health, and embrace the wisdom you've earned. 

Have you been living to work instead of working to live? Franck challenges listeners to reconsider priorities before it's too late. From navigating fatherhood with an 11-year-old who wants dad to "drop into the halfpipe" to contemplating post-empty-nest adventures in an RV, Franck shares how midlife brings perspective that twenty-somethings can't comprehend. He discusses the wave of divorces he's witnessed among friends hitting their fifties and the importance of healing past wounds. But ultimately, Franck's message is optimistic: "My best age is obviously now." With his contagious energy and thoughtful insights, this episode reminds us all that with age comes not just limitations, but a profound understanding of what truly matters in life. 

ThirtyFiveSixtyFour is a podcast for listeners between the ages of 35 and 64. Available on all major podcast platforms, the show offers an engaging journey through the various challenges and experiences of midlife. ThirtyFiveSixtyFour presents a distinct departure from the traditional midlife crisis storyline. Instead, it champions the perspective that midlife should be viewed as a period marked by play, discovery, transformation and possibility. With new episodes released weekly, ThirtyFiveSixtyFour is positioned to become one of the fastest-growing podcasts of the year, providing both valuable insights and entertainment for those in the middle. 

Resources: 

Ever feel guilty about forgotten birthdays, not tipping at counter service, or - gasp - actually relaxing? You're not alone. Karen dives into these midlife guilt traps with humor and practical solutions. "I hope it was a great birthday," she suggests as the perfect response when you've forgotten someone's special day. Karen even admits her own struggle with Netflix guilt, sharing the story of a woman who jumps off the couch when her husband comes home. The episode concludes with permission to say no to volunteering when your schedule is already packed. The message? It's time to drop the guilt and reclaim your midlife sanity. 

ThirtyFiveSixtyFour is a podcast for listeners between the ages of 35 and 64. Available on all major podcast platforms, the show offers an engaging journey through the various challenges and experiences of midlife. ThirtyFiveSixtyFour presents a distinct departure from the traditional midlife crisis storyline. Instead, it champions the perspective that midlife should be viewed as a period marked by play, discovery, transformation and possibility. With new episodes released weekly, ThirtyFiveSixtyFour is positioned to become one of the fastest-growing podcasts of the year, providing both valuable insights and entertainment for those in the middle. 

Resources: 

Ever wondered if your embarrassing midlife moments are actually universal?  

For instance, are you embracing the "great hair migration" yet? Karen, Lisa, and Suzette tackle everything from colonoscopies to Botox, skinny jeans, and the infamous "freeze, squeeze and sneeze" of middle age. Lisa and Suzette's philosophy? "Shame loves the dark." They advocate unapologetically for living your best midlife with confidence—whether that means going gray, getting Botox, or taking up drums at 53. After all, isn't this the best part about being middle-aged? We finally care less about what others think and more about what brings us joy. As Lisa says, "The sexiest part of all this is confidence." 

ThirtyFiveSixtyFour is a podcast for listeners between the ages of 35 and 64. Available on all major podcast platforms, the show offers an engaging journey through the various challenges and experiences of midlife. ThirtyFiveSixtyFour presents a distinct departure from the traditional midlife crisis storyline. Instead, it champions the perspective that midlife should be viewed as a period marked by play, discovery, transformation and possibility. With new episodes released weekly, ThirtyFiveSixtyFour is positioned to become one of the fastest-growing podcasts of the year, providing both valuable insights and entertainment for those in the middle. 

What if your most embarrassing midlife struggle is exactly what someone else needs to hear about? 

Karen Stones gets real about vulnerability in this honest episode of ThirtyFiveSixtyFour. Ever tried being truly vulnerable with someone, only to realize you were just reciting a script? Karen has. For 2025, she's challenging herself—and her middle-aged listeners—to move beyond surface-level connections. She shares raw stories: opening up about her perimenopause struggles to an old friend (who immediately responded "me too") and admitting her parenting failures to her hairstylist. But who deserves to see your true self? Not everyone. "Choose wisely," she warns. 

Have you been avoiding difficult conversations with people who matter? Karen believes we need fewer Instagram acquaintances and more genuine connections. She asks listeners to identify the safe people in their lives and take a risk. Share something hard. Feel that racing heart. The payoff? Deep connection. And your vulnerability might just help someone else navigate their own midlife challenges. After all, isn't that what we're all looking for at this stage—to be seen, flaws and all, and still be loved? 

ThirtyFiveSixtyFour is a podcast for listeners between the ages of 35 and 64. Available on all major podcast platforms, the show offers an engaging journey through the various challenges and experiences of midlife. ThirtyFiveSixtyFour presents a distinct departure from the traditional midlife crisis storyline. Instead, it champions the perspective that midlife should be viewed as a period marked by play, discovery, transformation and possibility. With new episodes released weekly, ThirtyFiveSixtyFour is positioned to become one of the fastest-growing podcasts of the year, providing both valuable insights and entertainment for those in the middle. 

Resources: 

Did you know that the best time to start therapy might be when you're NOT in crisis? 

Welcome to Season 2 of the ThirtyFiveSixtyFour podcast! Host Karen Stones experienced a house fire last summer and is now in the reconstruction phase. She welcomes listeners back after a two-month break. In a deeply personal episode, host Karen Stones shares her personal journey with therapy, offering valuable perspectives for middle-aged listeners. Drawing from her own experiences, she debunks common therapy myths and shares how seeking professional help when not in crisis can lead to profound personal growth. 

Karen discusses how childhood experiences shape adult behaviors, the investment value of therapy despite its cost, and finding the right therapist match. Therapy isn't a sign of weakness but of strength and wisdom. Find out how one person's therapy journey can positively transform relationships through "therapy by osmosis." Throughout, Karen weaves personal anecdotes with practical advice for listeners considering therapy as a pathway to living their best middle-aged life. 

ThirtyFiveSixtyFour is a podcast for listeners between the ages of 35 and 64. Available on all major podcast platforms, the show offers an engaging journey through the various challenges and experiences of midlife. ThirtyFiveSixtyFour presents a distinct departure from the traditional midlife crisis storyline. Instead, it champions the perspective that midlife should be viewed as a period marked by play, discovery, transformation and possibility. With new episodes released weekly, ThirtyFiveSixtyFour is positioned to become one of the fastest-growing podcasts of the year, providing both valuable insights and entertainment for those in the middle. 

Resources: 

What challenges did Victoria Nino face when considering egg donation, and how did she navigate the complex emotions of genetic grief and redefining family? 

Join me for a heartbreaking but inspiring conversation with Victoria Nino, author and advocate, as she shares her experiences with infertility. Victoria candidly discusses her endometriosis diagnosis and the emotional and physical toll of fertility treatments in her pursuit of motherhood. Her story offers hope and solidarity to the one in six individuals worldwide facing similar fertility struggles. 

Victoria also opens up about her decision to pursue egg donation after unsuccessful IUI cycles, navigating ‘genetic grief’ and societal expectations along the way. As an advocate for diverse family structures, she challenges traditional views on building a family. This episode sheds light on the emotional, financial, and societal aspects of fertility challenges, while highlighting the importance of community support and inclusivity. 

ThirtyFiveSixtyFour is a podcast for listeners between the ages of 35 and 64. Available on all major podcast platforms, the show offers an engaging journey through the various challenges and experiences of midlife. ThirtyFiveSixtyFour presents a distinct departure from the traditional midlife crisis storyline. Instead, it champions the perspective that midlife should be viewed as a period marked by play, discovery, transformation and possibility. With new episodes released weekly, ThirtyFiveSixtyFour is positioned to become one of the fastest-growing podcasts of the year, providing both valuable insights and entertainment for those in the middle. 

Resources: 

Could seeking feedback from your loved ones about what they hope you’ll change in the coming year lead to surprising insights and personal growth? 

Picture this: I'm sitting across from my therapist, and in an unexpected twist, I ask her to craft a New Year's resolution just for me. Her answer? Learn to relax and chill more. This suggestion threw me for a loop, challenging my deeply ingrained beliefs about productivity and the innate fear of laziness.  

ThirtyFiveSixtyFour is a podcast for listeners between the ages of 35 and 64. Available on all major podcast platforms, the show offers an engaging journey through the various challenges and experiences of midlife. ThirtyFiveSixtyFour presents a distinct departure from the traditional midlife crisis storyline. Instead, it champions the perspective that midlife should be viewed as a period marked by play, discovery, transformation and possibility. With new episodes released weekly, ThirtyFiveSixtyFour is positioned to become one of the fastest-growing podcasts of the year, providing both valuable insights and entertainment for those in the middle. 

Resources: