Total Health in Midlife Episode #190: Breaking the Midlife Exercise Myths

When my mom was diagnosed with breast cancer, it was a wake-up call that changed my entire approach to fitness. I went from someone who was inconsistent at best, to someone who now sees it as a non-negotiable part of life.  This episode of Total Health in Midlife is a deep dive into why traditional fitness rules no longer apply as we age, particularly for women. I share my personal journey and the transformative power of strength training in fighting osteoporosis and frailty. We shift the conversation from viewing exercise as a chore to seeing it as an investment in our future health and independence. We also tackle the critical risks that come with aging, such as falls, brittle bones, and muscle loss, which all threaten our independence. We debunk common myths around weight management, highlighting why the “calories in versus calories out” mantra may not work for us anymore Read More . . .

Relieve Menopause Symptoms with These Simple Tips

Are menopause symptoms taking a toll on your life? Discover how to manage them holistically with practical tips and personalized strategies. From understanding weight gain and reducing hot flashes to overcoming brain fog and boosting energy levels, our comprehensive guide covers it all. Learn how to break free from diet culture and embrace a balanced approach that truly works for your body. Ready to take control of your health? Read More . . .

4 things I learned from logging my food & exercise

At some point along my weight loss journey, I realized that I wasn’t going achieve my goals and have them be life long habits if I was implementing radical and quick fix solutions. I needed to think about sustainable habits. What were those things that I could do and keep doing for years and years, and still be successful? AND if I was going to do something that wasn’t sustainable, I would acknowledge it, but if it could get me to a goal and then I could safely transition off of it, the technique would be worth a try. An example of this is food logging and wearable fitness trackers. In my guide, 7 Mistakes I made in my Fat-Loss Journey, one of the 7 mistakes that I made was being too dependent on the calories in versus calories out approach. And that’s true. I used my fitness trackers and Read More . . .

Should you exercise while you’re on vacation?

I live in a tourist town on the eastern coast of Mexico. We’re near Cancun & Playa del Carmen. We have a high season where we get an influx of visitors, and a low season where, we still get some visitors – just not as many. When I talk to folks who are visiting, or even my clients who will be traveling here on vacation, I hear the same fear all the time –  they think that they’re going to gain weight while they’re here. But I’ve found that while living here, it’s been really easy to maintain my weight without any scales, and feel good about my diet (of course, you can be healthy and unhealthy pretty much anywhere! It’s all about our choices.) What’s the difference? For one, the restaurant portions aren’t nearly the size that they are in the states. And because imported food is more expensive, Read More . . .

3 Tips for Staying Fit When You’re On the Road

For folks who love traveling, or who travel for their job, it’s one of the downfalls that goes along with the luxury of going to wonderful new places: traveling is disruptive to even the best intentioned person, when it comes to their health. I recall when I started my first job where I would be traveling 100% of my time; I knew that business travelers often gained weight. I was already bigger than I felt comfortable with, and didn’t want to gain more. I was young – in my late 20’s. I had never exercised before in my life and my diet was sh*t. I knew my diet was bad. I loved bloomin’ onions, burgers, fries, and beer. I knew that I should be eating more vegetables, but I didn’t know how to do that – so I did it the only way I knew how – I became a Read More . . .

How to prevent your diet (or exercise routine) from derailing

Life gets in the way. Doesn’t it? How often do you plan to do something, but then, something else comes up? And then that thing that you wanted to do gets put on the back burner?   I always kind-of laugh to myself when I make a big ‘life decision’ because it always seems like the universe conspires against me to make it not happen. What typically happens is that I’ll decide to make a change, and then 3 or 4 other events happen at the same time that make my situation that much more stressful.   The best example of this I can give is when I moved from Chicago to Austin to live with my husband, Gary.   Granted, moving across the country is already a HUGE, stressful event. But the reason I was moving was to be with my husband because we were in a long distance Read More . . .

General Tips & Info

Weight Loss Lingo Perhaps it’s time for us to stop focusing on “weight”, and start focusing on “reducing body fat”. Experts say our percentage of body fat is generally a better measure of our fitness and health status than our weight. And, in fact, the scale can be quite misleading. For example, through exercise and a healthy diet, we can build muscle and become leaner yet be discouraged by a scale that suggests we haven’t made much progress. Likewise, the scale can fool us into believing we’ve made strides with lost pounds, when in reality we’ve simply lost important muscle mass. The words we use make a big difference in how we perceive our goals. “Reducing bodyfat percentage” may not exactly roll off the tongue, but it could give us a sounder perspective on what it really means to be fit. Want the truth about cellulite? It isn’t a mysterious Read More . . .

Health “E” Tips

Exercise Tips Nutrition Tips General Tips For Beginners Nutrition Guidelines for Reducing Body Fat Exercise Guidelines for Beginners Read More . . .

3 Tips for Increasing Activity

Part 3 in the Runtex University Bucky & Bob Speaking Series In the ongoing debate of whether someone can be overweight and be healthy, one thing is clear: Being active and incorporating intentional exercise into your lifestyle is going to positively contribute to your quality of life as you age. It may or may not help you live longer, but then who wants to live until the age of 150 if you’re strapped to a wheelchair and feeding tube? The body and mind are so tightly inter-connected that regular, intentional exercise improves mood, quality of sleep, decreases stress and the risk of disease. What I have also found intriguing is that as individuals become more active, their bodies start to crave healthier options. Don’t be surprised if you start craving broccoli or salmon once you incorporate activity into your day. Your body was meant to move; treat your body well Read More . . .

3 Tips for Maintaining Motivation

Part 2 in the Runtex University Bucky & Bob Speaking Series We’ve all done it; whether it’s a New Year’s Resolution, or disliking the way you look in pictures, or even wanting to fit into a cute pair of pants again that have gotten a little too snug. We start off with a vengeance; vowing to change our life this time for good. Then, about 6 weeks later (maybe sooner, maybe later) our stick-to-it-iveness begins to wane. What strategies can you use so that you maintain your motivation & make those behavior changes that you desire? 1) Set Goals Goals are SO important in life in general. Goals allow you to be proactive in your life instead of re-active. When I think about life without goals, I think about the song Once In a Lifetime by the Talking Heads. The tips I’m outlining here can be applied to health, personal, Read More . . .

Transform Your Health Game – No Dieting Required!

Embark on a transformative journey with our exclusive guide to sustainable weight loss for women over 50. Say goodbye to fleeting diet trends and hello to a life brimming with vitality and health. Dive into our holistic approach, where drinking water, eating nutritious foods, and managing stress lay the foundation for a vibrant lifestyle. Discover the power of movement, the importance of sleep, and the balance of enjoying life’s treats—all tailored to the unique needs of women in their golden years. Join our empowering community and start your path to a healthier, happier you today Read More . . .

Total Health in Midlife Episode #226: Lit Up Life with Debbie Heiser

Have you ever caught yourself wondering, How did I get here? You’re doing all the right things, checking off the to-do list, showing up for everyone else but somehow, your own joy feels like an afterthought. In this episode of the Total Health in Midlife Podcast, I sit down with Debbie Heiser, Chief Igniter of The Lit Up Life, to talk about what it really takes to build a business and a life that feels fully aligned and lit up from the inside out. Debbie and I talk about what it means to live in integrity with yourself while making good money doing work you love. We explore how so many of us, especially women, have been conditioned to downplay what we want, to stay small, and to avoid being “too much.” Debbie shares how learning to own your desires, trust your decisions, and flip the script on guilt and Read More . . .

Total Health in Midlife Episode #221: Menopause, Sleep, Stress, & Recovery

We think that health is all about eating and exercising. But that’s not the whole story. If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing everything “right,” eating well, exercising, and following all the health rules, but still not seeing the results you expect, this episode is for you. The truth is, diet and exercise are only part of the equation.  What’s often missing? Stress, sleep, rest, and recovery. These are the overlooked pillars of true health, especially in midlife when your body starts playing by a whole new set of rules. In today’s episode, we dive deep into why prioritizing rest isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity for real, lasting health.   We live in a world that glorifies doing more, pushing harder, and ignoring the warning signs of burnout. But as women in midlife, we can’t afford to keep running on empty. When stress levels soar and sleep suffers, our bodies Read More . . .

Total Health in Midlife Episode #212: Liking Your Reasons vs Believing Your Excuses

Have you ever hit snooze on your alarm, promising yourself you’ll walk later, only for later to never happen? Or told yourself, ‘It’s just one chocolate-covered almond,’ only to feel a pang of guilt afterward? These tiny moments of negotiation with yourself can leave you wondering: am I being kind to myself, or just letting myself off the hook?  In today’s episode, we’re diving into that tricky gray area where reasons meet excuses. How do you tell the difference between a choice that genuinely serves you and one that holds you back from your health goals? Join me as I tackle one of the most common questions I hear: how do I balance self-compassion with accountability? We’ll explore how to make thoughtful decisions in moments of stress, fatigue, or temptation that align with your long-term health goals—and leave you feeling confident instead of regretful. With relatable examples, actionable tips, and Read More . . .

The ERG Movement and Total Health by Elizabeth Announce Joint International Women’s Day Event

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE The ERG Movement and Total Health by Elizabeth Announce Joint International Women’s Day Event [United States] – The ERG Movement is partnering with health coach and speaker Elizabeth Sherman, host of the “Total Health by Elizabeth” podcast, for a special International Women’s Day event. This collaboration will spotlight the vital link between personal well-being and effective leadership for women in corporate settings. The virtual event, set for [Date/Time], will bring together women leaders and Employee Resource Group (ERG) professionals. Attendees will learn practical strategies to reduce stress, balance health goals, and build self-confidence in fast-paced work environments. With a focus on simple, sustainable habits, Elizabeth will outline how women leaders can show up at their best—both at work and in life. “We are thrilled to host Elizabeth for this important conversation,” says Kara Solomon of The ERG Movement. “She brings a wealth of knowledge on women’s wellness. Read More . . .

Why You’re Not Losing Weight Anymore: The Truth About Weight Loss Plateaus

If you’ve been trying to lose weight and suddenly the scale won’t budge, you’re not alone. It’s frustrating, and it can feel like all your hard work isn’t paying off. You’re eating better, moving more, and doing everything “right,” yet nothing is changing. Here’s the thing—weight loss plateaus are normal. They happen to everyone. Your body isn’t broken, and you’re not failing. A plateau doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong; it means your body is adjusting. But if you’re not prepared, a plateau can feel discouraging. You might start second-guessing yourself—Am I eating too much? Should I work out more? Is this even worth it? That kind of thinking can push you to make drastic changes that aren’t sustainable or even make you want to give up altogether. The good news? You don’t have to stay stuck. There are smart, simple strategies you can use to push through plateaus without Read More . . .

Total Health in Midlife Episode #206: Mind, Money, & Motion with Marie Burns

Did you know the way you manage your money could mirror how you care for your health? In this episode of Total Health in Midlife, I sit down with Marie Burns, a Certified Financial Planner and former Registered Dietitian, to explore the fascinating connection between financial habits and physical well-being.  Marie shares how behaviors we learned in childhood influence our choices today and how rewriting those narratives can lead to greater balance and confidence. We discuss why financial wellness and physical health are deeply intertwined, offering practical tips to take charge of both.  From uncovering your “money personality” to understanding how stress impacts your finances and health, this episode is packed with relatable stories, actionable advice, and tools you can use to start making positive changes. Whether you’re looking to feel more empowered in managing your money or inspired to create a healthier lifestyle, this conversation will leave you with Read More . . .

Total Health in Midlife Episode #205: How Body Image Changes in Midlife

Have you ever looked in the mirror and wondered when the reflection looking back at you changed? Maybe you thought by this point in your life, you’d have stopped caring about how you look. Instead, you find yourself navigating new challenges—not just about weight, but about the profound ways your body evolves in midlife. What if I told you that the struggles you’re feeling aren’t just about aging but about reclaiming a power that was never meant to be lost? In this episode of Total Health in Midlife, I dive into the untold story of women in midlife and their shifting body image. From unexpected changes in hair texture and skin to the surprise of needing reading glasses, these aren’t just physical transformations—they’re emotional markers of time, identity, and resilience. We’ll explore why these changes can feel so challenging and how societal narratives have shaped our perception of aging. But Read More . . .

Total Health in Midlife Episode #203: Listener QA: Moving to Mexico

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to leave behind the fast-paced American lifestyle and start anew in a foreign country? Maybe you’ve seen my posts about the gorgeous beaches, slower pace, and affordable living in Mexico and thought, “Could I really do this?” In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what nearly eight years of living in Mexico has really been like—the good, the challenging, and the life-changing lessons I’ve learned along the way. From navigating language barriers to discovering a simpler, more intentional way of living, I’m sharing the unexpected shifts that have shaped my expat experience. I’ll talk about why I’ve resisted doctor visits, the surprising longevity of my workout clothes, and how our community rallied around us when we faced challenges like losing power shortly after moving. You’ll also get the behind-the-scenes scoop on our House Hunters International episode and why life Read More . . .

The Power of ‘Half-Assing’ Your Health: Why Perfection Isn’t Necessary for Progress

This article was written for and originally published on Sixty and Me Here Ever feel like you need to overhaul your entire life to get healthy? Have you ever found yourself putting off making changes because you can’t do it all perfectly? If this resonates, you’re not alone and many women just like you feel overwhelmed by health advice that seems to demand perfection. But what if I told you that you don’t need to be perfect to make real progress? In fact, embracing a ‘half-assed’ approach to your health might be the key to lasting change. Half-assing your health isn’t about lowering your standards. It’s about making consistent, manageable improvements that add up over time. Half-assing your health is about making progress, not striving for perfection. And it’s an approach that can lead to better health, more energy, and yes, even weight loss if that’s your goal. In this Read More . . .