Could the changes in your body be more than random? This week on Total Health in Midlife, I talked with Valerie Simms, life coach and founder of the upcoming Hormone Harmony Summit. Valerie’s work reveals often-ignored links between life events—like divorce—and hormonal symptoms such as brain fog, mood swings, and insomnia. After transitioning from financial planning to holistic health, Valerie noticed gaps in conventional medicine’s support for women, inspiring her to create the Hormone Harmony Summit, now in its fourth season. Airing November 21, the summit brings together experts to discuss holistic approaches to hormone balance, from nutrition to Reiki. Join us for a preview of the event, where Valerie shares how these insights can help you take control of your health. Don’t miss this chance to transform your understanding of your body and well-being. About Valerie Simms Valerie Simms is a professional life coach dedicated to helping her clients Read More . . .

Ever fail achieving a goal and then just want to forget about it? In this episode of the Total Health in Midlife podcast, I take the traditional approach to goal-setting and turn it on its head in favor of diving into what really matters: flexibility and authenticity. I opened up about my own journey—setting big, ambitious goals, only to realize that the real growth came when I allowed myself to change course. Let me challenge you to rethink how you’re setting goals. Are they truly in line with who you are today? We’ll explore the power of behavior-based goals—where daily actions, not just outcomes, take center stage. This shift can transform your sense of accomplishment, keeping you motivated and grounded in the present. I’ll share how releasing the pressure to achieve unrealistic expectations can lead to building sustainable habits and embracing change without the weight of guilt. After all, it’s Read More . . .

Have you ever felt like your brain is on a roller coaster, one minute laser-focused, and the next completely lost?  If this sounds familiar, know that it’s not just you. Many women in midlife are discovering they have ADHD, a condition often overlooked for women in the past. Join us as we dive into the world of ADHD for women in midlife with Xena Jones, an expert coach and host of the “Navigating Adult ADHD Podcast.” Discover why so many women are being diagnosed with ADHD in midlife and learn about the unique symptoms they often experience. From inattentiveness and anxiety to hyperactivity and perfectionism, ADHD can manifest in various ways – different from our understanding of how boys and men exhibit ADHD. Understand the challenges ADHD can pose for friendships and discover practical strategies for building and maintaining meaningful connections. Uncover the crucial role of dopamine in ADHD and Read More . . .

Are you tired of feeling like you’re constantly running on empty, no matter how hard you try?  In this episode of the Total Health in Midlife podcast, I tackle one of the most overlooked yet crucial aspects of health: stress management. I challenge the traditional advice of bubble baths and breathing exercises, arguing that these reactive strategies fail to address the root of the problem.  Stress, particularly for women in midlife, is not just about managing responsibilities—it’s the silent force affecting sleep, eating habits, exercise, and overall well-being. I draw from my own experience as a personal trainer and life coach to explain how the relentless mental load of daily life—family, work, social expectations—has conditioned many to normalize stress.  I offer a game-changing approach, introducing proactive tools like the ‘Think, Feel, Act Cycle’ and the ‘Motivational Triad’ to help listeners break free from the stress cycle and build resilience. Through Read More . . .

Are you stuck in the frustrating cycle of starting and stopping your health journey?  Tune in to my latest episode as I uncover the real reasons behind this common struggle and share actionable strategies to break free once and for all. I explore the pitfalls of the “taking a break” mentality and emphasize the importance of prioritizing health over weight loss.  Through inspiring stories, including that of my client Judy, I illustrate how embracing imperfect action and maintaining the bare minimum consistency can lead to lasting success. Learn how to shift your mindset from all-or-nothing to consistent, manageable actions, finding joy and balance in the process, so that healthy habits become a permanent, enjoyable part of your life. In this engaging discussion, I also tackle overcoming perfectionist thinking and adopting flexible approaches like B-minus habits. Discover how to nourish your body with delicious foods, engage in joyful movement, and create Read More . . .

In this powerful episode, I answer listener questions, including how to set realistic health goals when your schedule is packed, what to do when unexpected events throw you off course, and how to build the self-trust and confidence needed to follow through on your health commitments. I share my personal experiences and the strategies that have helped me and my clients break free from the cycle of self-sabotage and start making lasting, meaningful changes in their health.  The episode also explores the power of planning ahead, even for those who don’t consider themselves naturally inclined to organize or plan. I provide practical tips for incorporating planning into daily routines and discuss the benefits of doing so, such as reduced stress and increased likelihood of following through on health commitments. Throughout the episode, I emphasize the importance of taking responsibility for one’s health and encourage listeners to seek the support they Read More . . .

Do you ever feel like your body is working against you as you get older?  As we enter midlife, it’s common to face challenges in our health that can leave us feeling stuck or frustrated. Whether it’s unexplained weight gain, fatigue, or the overwhelming task of managing stress while balancing work, family, and personal health goals, the journey can feel isolating.  In this episode of the Total Health in Midlife podcast, we’re diving deep into the tools and strategies that can help you take back control of your health. From understanding how hormones impact our bodies to finding sustainable ways to manage stress, I’ll guide you through practical steps that are rooted in science and easy to incorporate into your daily routine.  If you’ve been feeling like your body is changing in ways you can’t keep up with, or if you’ve struggled to find a balance between your health and Read More . . .

In this bonus episode of the Total Health in Midlife podcast, I’m joined by financial expert Elizabeth Rose to discuss why many women struggle with taking control of their finances. We dive into the mindset that often holds women back and explore the cultural and societal influences behind it. Whether you’re just starting to manage your money or want to improve your financial strategy, this episode offers valuable insights for changing your money mindset. Elizabeth shares simple, actionable steps women can take right away to build financial confidence. From creating a budget that works for you to making smart investment choices, you’ll learn key strategies for gaining control of your finances. It’s not just about managing money—it’s about feeling empowered to make decisions that protect your future and well-being. Elizabeth also introduces her upcoming summit, “Fearless Money Mind,” starting on October 16th. This event will bring together experts to help Read More . . .

Are you tired of feeling like your health is slipping away as you navigate midlife?  In this episode of Total Health in Midlife, I sit down with Denise Stegall, a three-time best-selling author and “Longevity Concierge,” to explore how you can create a healthier, more fulfilling life without resorting to restrictive diets or punishing workouts. Denise offers practical, real-life advice on eating nourishing food without feeling deprived, making personalized health decisions that work for your unique lifestyle, and embracing accountability without shame.  We also dive into how your mindset can unlock your health potential and the surprising impact social relationships have on your well-being. From the connection between oral health and Alzheimer’s to the importance of sleep and navigating social challenges, this episode is packed with eye-opening insights and actionable strategies to help you stop fighting your body and start working with it.  Tune in to discover how to feel Read More . . .

Ever wondered why you can’t stop eating even when you’re not hungry?  The truth might shock you! Discover the surprising reasons behind your overeating habits and how simple environmental tweaks can turn your eating patterns around. In this eye-opening episode, I dive into the hidden factors influencing your food choices—like the shape of your glasses and the size of your plates—that secretly encourage you to eat more than you intended. I’ll reveal how small, yet powerful changes can help you gain control over your eating habits without feeling restricted. Learn how to set up your environment for success with tricks that make mindful eating easier and more intuitive. From clever plate tricks to optimizing the visibility of healthy foods, I share the secrets to effortlessly managing your intake and achieving your health goals. Tune in to find out how these simple adjustments can make a huge difference in your daily Read More . . .

Can embracing discomfort truly transform your life?  Picture this scenario: avoiding social events out of self-consciousness or missing out on adventures due to fear. We’ve all been there, stuck in our comfort zones, but today, I’ll show you how pushing through these discomforts can unlock a richer, more fulfilling life.  On this episode of the Total Health in Midlife podcast, I share personal stories and insights on why our natural aversion to discomfort often limits our potential and keeps us stuck in situations we wish to change. By exploring the paradox of short-term comfort versus long-term goals, you’ll learn practical strategies to leverage discomfort for greater strength, capability, and overall satisfaction. Emotional discomfort often leads us to make choices that conflict with our long-term aspirations. We’ll discuss how habits like overeating, binge-watching, and avoiding physical activity serve as quick fixes but ultimately leave us feeling worse.  Through relatable examples, including Read More . . .

What if you could abandon restrictive diets forever and still achieve your health goals? Join me on the Total Health and Midlife podcast as I explore the way to achieve food freedom through the “food uniform.” This episode is your guide to adopting a flexible, personalized approach to eating that frees you from the guilt and stress of traditional dieting. Learn how to transform your relationship with food by building a sustainable, enjoyable eating framework that aligns with your lifestyle and health aspirations. I’ll walk you through the process of creating your own food uniform, starting with a deep dive into your current eating habits. Discover how this proactive approach can simplify your meal prep, streamline grocery shopping, and even help you navigate social events without compromising your dietary goals. This isn’t about perfection; it’s about making consistent progress toward a healthier you. If you’re ready to break free from Read More . . .

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 . . .

What if I told you that your struggle with overeating has nothing to do with willpower? In this episode of the Total Health and Midlife Podcast, I dive deep into the real reasons behind overeating, unraveling the myth that it’s simply about being “good” with food. Through personal stories and expert insights, I reveal why diets often fail and why we keep falling into the same patterns, despite our best efforts. But this isn’t just another episode about dieting—I introduce a radically different approach that doesn’t involve giving up the foods you love. Instead, I challenge listeners to rethink their relationship with food, focusing on understanding and unlearning the habits that have been setting them up for failure. If you’re tired of the constant battle with food and looking for a sustainable way to change your eating habits without guilt or shame, this episode offers a breakthrough perspective that could Read More . . .

Have you ever wondered why, despite your best efforts, your health goals seem just out of reach? In this episode of the Total Health in Midlife podcast, I dive into the often-overlooked hidden eating habits that can sabotage our progress. I explore eight common yet sneaky habits, like eating snacks while driving home from the grocery store or constantly going back for seconds after meals. These seemingly minor actions can have a surprisingly significant impact on our overall health. I share my personal experience of breaking free from these habits, highlighting how small changes have transformed my relationship with food and overall wellness. My stories and insights provide a relatable and eye-opening perspective, and I encourage you to reflect on your own behaviors.  What hidden habits might be holding you back from achieving your health goals? By becoming aware of these everyday behaviors, you can take the first step towards Read More . . .

Discover the secret to maintaining your vitality in your 40s, 50s, and after, as I uncover the transformative power of protein for women.  In today’s episode of the Total Health in Midlife podcast, we’ll explore why protein is essential for muscle maintenance and healthy bones, skin, hair, and brain function. Learn how to combat the effects of sarcopenia, a common issue as we age, by ensuring adequate protein intake. I also emphasize the importance of animal-based proteins for their complete amino acid profiles and offer practical advice for those relying on plant-based sources to make mindful combinations. Packed with personal anecdotes and real-life success stories, this episode is brimming with actionable tips to boost your protein intake. I share strategies like meal planning, batch cooking, and making protein the star of every meal to help you stay energized and in control of your health. Take advantage of this opportunity to Read More . . .

Why does midlife weight loss often feel like an impossible quest?  Join me as I explore the real reasons behind this struggle. In this eye-opening episode, I discuss the unique challenges faced during this life stage, such as time constraints, stress, emotional well-being, and the fear of losing social connections.  Instead of the typical diet-and-exercise rhetoric, I share powerful stories from women who have successfully navigated these barriers, demonstrating how a holistic approach that includes physical, mental, and emotional health can lead to sustainable results. Listen in to discover practical strategies that seamlessly integrate into your busy life, promoting lasting wellness and fulfillment. In this episode, I focus on managing stress and emotional health, highlighting techniques like mindfulness, deep breathing, and finding joyful activities. I dive into the impact of emotional eating and how to develop healthier coping strategies, such as journaling and hobbies.  Learn about the benefits of intuitive Read More . . .

In this eye-opening episode of Total Health in Midlife, I explore the hidden connection between voting and women’s health. Discover how your ballot choices impact everything from public health policies to personal self-esteem.  Key topics include: Learn why your vote matters more than you think and how it could be the key to unlocking your health potential. This episode is a must-listen for any woman who wants to understand the broader factors influencing her health journey. Get full show notes and more information here: https://elizabethsherman.com/185 Keywords: voting, women’s health, public policy, self-esteem, marginalized communities, public health, urban planning, economic policy, media representation, civic engagement What You’ll Learn from this Episode Listen to the Full Episode: Featured on the Show: Full Episode Transcript: So, if you’ve been following me on social media, you probably have noticed that I do not shy away from talking about voting and politics. And you might Read More . . .