Your 2nd Act

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In this episode of Your 2nd Act, we explore the unique challenges and opportunities of midlife relationships with Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Dawn Dominguez. As couples face shifting priorities, empty nests, and rediscovering each other, midlife can be a time of both tension and transformation. Dawn brings her expertise to help navigate these moments with intention and clarity.

Dawn unpacks why we’re often drawn to partners who reflect our early caregivers and how this unconscious choice can lead to both connection and conflict. She explains how these dynamics play out over time and offers actionable advice on how to address power struggles, reignite intimacy, and deepen understanding in long-term relationships.

This conversation emphasises the value of being purposeful and mindful in nurturing midlife marriages. Dawn emphasises the power of play, meaningful communication, and regular check-ins to strengthen your bond. She also shares how therapy can be a game-changer, not just for couples in crisis, but for those who want to grow and thrive together. Therapy, she explains, helps couples break unhelpful patterns, heal from old wounds, and create space for renewed connection.

Dawn’s insights will inspire you to see midlife as a chance to redefine your relationship, whether it’s working through challenges, rediscovering joy, or building a stronger foundation for the future. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to nurture their marriage and embrace midlife as an opportunity for growth—together.

Tune in now and discover how to keep your relationship strong, no matter where you are in your journey!

To connect with Dawn and explore more about her work, you can follow her on Instagram or visit her website at Windows of Hope Counseling.

If this episode brought you inspiration, laughter, or a new perspective, I’d love to hear from you! Your feedback truly lights up my day and helps shape future episodes.

Why not share the love with a 5-star rating or a quick review! Your words could be just what someone needs to start their own 2nd Act!

Catch this episode on YouTube, stay connected with me on Instagram for exclusive updates, and join my private Facebook group to dive even deeper into our community.

Have thoughts, suggestions, or just want to say hello? Email me anytime at [email protected] - I’d love to connect!

Michelle x 

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Remember the podcast Who the Hell is Hamish?- the shocking tale of one of Australia’s most infamous conmen? In this week’s episode, I chat with Tracy Hall, who was swept into a whirlwind romance with a man she thought was "Max Tavita," a successful businessman with charm and sophistication. But after 18 months, Tracy discovered the devastating truth: "Max" was actually Hamish McLaren, a professional fraudster who conned 15 victims out of $7.6 million, and his total scams worldwide are estimated to have reached between $80 and $100 million.

Tracy takes us deep into her journey of love, betrayal, and rebuilding after the shattering realisation that her partner was living a double life. From her struggles with trust to her determination to help others recognise warning signs, Tracy’s story is a powerful reminder of resilience and courage. She opens up about how she began piecing her life back together, learning to trust again, and using her experience to raise awareness about the evolving tactics of scam artists.

You won’t want to miss this eye-opening and empowering episode. To learn more, visit Tracy's website and grab your copy of her book The Last Victim here on Amazon.

If this episode brought you inspiration, laughter, or a new perspective, I’d love to hear from you! Your feedback truly lights up my day and helps shape future episodes.

Why not share the love with a 5-star rating or a quick review! Your words could be just what someone needs to start their own 2nd Act!

Catch this episode on YouTube, stay connected with me on Instagram for exclusive updates, and join my private Facebook group to dive even deeper into our community.

Have thoughts, suggestions, or just want to say hello? Email me anytime at [email protected] - I’d love to connect!

Michelle x 

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Show Notes: 

That’s a wrap! - Season 2 Finale.

Season 2 has officially wrapped, and what an incredible journey it has been! I've been honoured to share the voices of such brave and honest women, whose willingness to be vulnerable has inspired not only me but our entire community. These stories have pushed me out of my comfort zone, reminding me just how much we can grow by learning from others' experiences. As your host, I’ve become braver in asking the questions we all want answers to, while always respecting the boundaries of my guests.

This season highlighted the power of storytelling in midlife, showcasing the diverse experiences of women eager to share their journeys. From the humour and wisdom of Jo from 50 So What, who reminded us to laugh at ourselves, to Lindsey’s inspiring turnaround after years of excessive drinking, the stories were rich and varied. Marlene shared the ups and downs of online dating in midlife, while Sharon’s journey from a corporate career to becoming a full-time psychic medium captivated us. Susi’s transformative experience with microdosing through menopause and Leeanne’s incredible 58kg weight loss and new career as a midlife model left us inspired. Jennifer’s brave decision to end a toxic relationship with her mother, and Diana’s transition from engineering to romance novelist, showcased the strength and resilience of midlife women. And let’s not forget Nick, my first male guest, who offered a valuable perspective on aging from a man’s point of view.

I also introduced a new segment this season called Let’s Catch Up, where I openly discuss topics that matter to me. This space has allowed me to challenge myself with more solo episodes, and I’m thrilled to hear that many of you are enjoying them. Rest assured, more solo episodes are coming in Season 3!

As I end Season 2 with 47 episodes under my belt, I want to remind you that this podcast was created to give every woman a voice. If you or someone you know has a story to share, please reach out via my socials or email me at [email protected].

Thank you for your incredible support throughout this season. I can’t wait to bring Season 3 to your ears. Until then, take care, and remember—the curtain has just risen on your most exciting act yet!

Michelle xx

If you found this episode to be a source of motivation, laughter, or valuable insight, I’d be over the moon if you could take a moment to share your thoughts. Your feedback means the world to me.

Why not spread the love with a 5-star rating or a brief review? Your kind words could be the guiding light for someone seeking their own 2nd Act!

Check out this episode on YouTube! Stay connected with me on Instagram for exclusives and exciting updates, and don’t forget to join my private Facebook group for even more connection.

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In this week's episode of 'Let's Catch Up,' I have an honest and eye-opening conversation with Jacki about the critical importance of financial security and awareness for women. When I posed the questions to our book club about how many of us rely on our partners to look after the major finances such as mortgages and investments, I was surprised to find that most of us admitted we leave those responsibilities to our partners! This raises important questions about why we do this and how we can better safeguard ourselves from potential financial disaster.

Jacki shares her personal experience of facing financial vulnerability after the end of her marriage. She opens up about the humiliation she felt when she was rejected for a credit card because, as a casual income earner, she didn’t qualify. This experience reinforced the importance of financial independence and the need for women to be proactive about managing their own finances. We discuss the common reasons women may defer financial responsibilities to their partners, the potential risks and consequences of not being financially independent, and practical steps women can take to become more financially aware and secure. Jacki's journey highlights the necessity of having your own financial foundation and the lessons she learned from her financial wake-up call.

Connect with me:On Instagram for exclusives and exciting updates, or just to say hello, drop me a line at [email protected]

Check out this episode on: YouTube!

Join the Conversation: I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences on this topic. Share your stories and tips via my private Facebook group for even more connection.

Support the Show: If you enjoyed this episode, please consider leaving a review and subscribing to Your 2nd Act on your favourite podcast platform. Your support helps me continue to bring valuable content to my listeners.

Thank you for listening, and let's catch up again next week!

Michelle x

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When we’re faced with hard times and struggles, it can be the moment where we experience tremendous growth, leading to new beginnings. In today's episode, my guest, Jacky, found herself on such a transformative journey. Taking time off from her 30-year teaching career to care for her sick son gave her the opportunity to rethink her life’s direction. This reflection led Jacky to make the bold decision to leave the classroom and launch her own successful business, The Canine Coach and Care, a thriving dog training, daycare, and grooming service.

Jacky opens up about the challenges she encountered within the education system, shedding light on the lack of support for both teachers and students. Her story is a testament to the power of intuition and manifestation, demonstrating how following your heart can lead to extraordinary transformations. Additionally, Jacky shares insights into her long-term relationship with her partner, highlighting the advantages of maintaining independence while nurturing a strong partnership.

Tune in to hear Jacky’s inspiring insights and learn how she turned personal challenges into opportunities, creating a life filled with purpose and passion.

If you found this episode to be a source of motivation, laughter, or valuable insight, I’d be over the moon if you could take a moment to share your thoughts. Your feedback means the world to me.

Why not spread the love with a 5-star rating or a brief review? Your kind words could be the guiding light for someone seeking their own 2nd Act!

Check out this episode on YouTube! Stay connected with me on Instagram for exclusives and exciting updates, and don’t forget to join my private Facebook group for even more connection.

For any thoughts, suggestions, or just to say hello, drop me a line at [email protected]

Michelle x 

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Imagine breaking up with your mum! In this episode, Jennifer courageously shares her journey of ending an unhealthy relationship with her mother. She opens up about the years of abuse and trauma she endured and the difficult choice to end this toxic relationship in her 2nd Act, as family ties don’t excuse bad behaviour.

Jennifer emphasises the importance of setting boundaries, even with family, to protect one's well-being. She discusses her healing journey, including therapy, support from her spouse, faith, and personal growth. She also highlights how creating a loving environment for her own family and finding strength through hope and online communities have contributed to her recovery.

As she navigates midlife, Jennifer is diving into new ventures, including her online store, Tidbits and Coffee and gives us a preview of her upcoming novel inspired by her life experiences. Join me for this inspiring story of resilience and personal growth, demonstrating how midlife can empower you to release what no longer serves you, free from guilt.

If you found this episode to be a source of motivation, laughter, or valuable insight, I’d be over the moon if you could take a moment to share your thoughts. Your feedback means the world to me.

Why not spread the love with a 5-star rating or a brief review? Your kind words could be the guiding light for someone seeking their own 2nd Act!

Check out this episode on YouTube! Stay connected with me on Instagram for exclusives and exciting updates, and don’t forget to join my private Facebook group for even more connection.

For any thoughts, suggestions, or just to say hello, drop me a line at [email protected]

Michelle x 

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I really enjoyed my chat with Tina as we unpacked the emotional impact of seeing our parents age. As members of the ‘sandwich generation,’ many of us find ourselves balancing life between young adult children and aging parents, making it a topic worth discussing.

We explore the guilt of not being able to provide constant care, the balancing act between personal freedom and caregiving responsibilities, and the importance of living life to the fullest. Tina shares her experiences, including heartfelt conversations with her mother about end-of-life wishes and the emotional journey of sorting through a lifetime of memories in her home.

Our conversation also touches on sibling dynamics, the need for supportive communities, and the benefits of staying connected as we age. It’s a tricky time for us midlifers, and this open conversation with Tina offers valuable insights and support for anyone navigating this challenging phase of life.

If you found this episode to be a source of motivation, laughter, or valuable insight, I’d be over the moon if you could take a moment to share your thoughts. Your feedback means the world to me.

Why not spread the love with a 5-star rating or a brief review? Your kind words could be the guiding light for someone seeking their own 2nd Act!

Check out this episode on YouTube! Stay connected with me on Instagram for exclusives and exciting updates, and don’t forget to join my private Facebook group for even more connection.

For any thoughts, suggestions, or just to say hello, drop me a line at [email protected]

Michelle x 

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Death has always been a taboo subject in our culture, and when I came across Caroline's story about how she transitioned from a career in PR to working as a death doula in her second act, I was intrigued. Caroline openly shares her journey to finding more meaningful work as a death doula after experiencing the deaths of her own parents and realising the great need for support during the dying process. Providing non-medical assistance and emotional support, Caroline ensures that the wishes of the dying are honoured while offering solace to their families and friends. She passionately advocates for death literacy and autonomy in end-of-life decisions, finding profound fulfilment in helping others navigate grief and loss. Tune in as we explore the emotional depths of her work and the power of compassionate support in times of sorrow. Caroline’s story is a remarkable testament to transformation and the gift of giving.

Follow Caroline on Instagram for more insights and updates on her journey as a death doula.

If you found this episode to be a source of motivation, laughter, or valuable insight, I’d be over the moon if you could take a moment to share your thoughts. Your feedback means the world to me.

Why not spread the love with a 5-star rating or a brief review? Your kind words could be the guiding light for someone seeking their own 2nd Act!

Check out this episode on YouTube! Stay connected with me on Instagram for exclusives and exciting updates, and don’t forget to join my private Facebook group for even more connection.

For any thoughts, suggestions, or just to say hello, drop me a line at [email protected]

Michelle x 

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Ever wondered what it would be like to turn your passion into a job? This episode might be the push you need to get started!  This week I chat with Diana, a former engineer turned romance novelist, who shares her incredible journey and passion for writing. 

Diana gives us a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to become an author. Together, we'll dive into the universal themes and beloved characters that make romance novels so popular and how these stories provide an escape from reality. 

What I love about Diana's story is that her career shift couldn’t be more different from her last, proving that you really can change your direction no matter what age you are. Join me for an exciting and inspiring conversation that celebrates the joy of storytelling and the magic it brings to both authors and readers. 

To dive into Diana's captivating romance novels, click this link to start reading.

If you found this episode to be a source of motivation, laughter, or valuable insight, I’d be over the moon if you could take a moment to share your thoughts. Your feedback means the world to me.

Why not spread the love with a 5-star rating or a brief review? Your kind words could be the guiding light for someone seeking their own 2nd Act!

Check out this episode on YouTube! Stay connected with me on Instagram for exclusives and exciting updates, and don’t forget to join my private Facebook group for even more connection.

For any thoughts, suggestions, or just to say hello, drop me a line at [email protected]

Michelle x 

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Let's Catch Up - Welcome to my first solo episode!I'm thrilled to introduce a brand-new segment called "Let's Catch up," where I dive into topics that matter to me and occasionally bring on friends for their insights. As this podcast is evolving, so am I and I’m eager to share more of myself and my thoughts with you all.

In this episode, I take you on a journey through my personal experiences of self-discovery and growth. I'll share the challenges I've faced and the triumphs that have shaped who I am today. We'll explore the power of believing in yourself and how taking small, consistent steps can lead to incredible personal and professional fulfillment.

Join me as we embrace our individual journeys and recognise our progress. I’d love for you to share your thoughts and experiences with me. What topics would you like to hear in future "Let's Catch Up" segments? Send me an email at [email protected]

If you found this episode to be a source of motivation, laughter, or valuable insight, I’d be over the moon if you could take a moment to share your thoughts. Your feedback means the world to me.

Why not spread the love with a 5-star rating or a brief review? Your kind words could be the guiding light for someone seeking their own 2nd Act!

Stay connected with me on Instagram for exclusives and exciting updates and don’t forget to join my private Facebook group for even more connection.

For any thoughts, suggestions, or just to say hello, drop me a line at [email protected]

Michelle x