Holiday Health Series Episode #1: The Mental Offload with Shawna Samuel

Ever feel like you’re constantly bombarded by societal expectations and pressures, especially as a woman? Well, you’re not alone.  I recently had an eye-opening chat with Shawna Samuel, the founder of Mental Offload, and we dove into this hot topic, exploring how imperative it is to subtract these pressures to reclaim our time and energy. Shawna’s insights on shedding the perennial need to please others, to make space for self-care and personal growth, are just the wake-up call we all need. Navigating the labyrinth of household chores and responsibilities often brings its own set of challenges. The talk with Shawna brought to light the concept of weaponized incompetence, and how it’s often entwined with maternal gatekeeping. These patterns can strain relationships, but more importantly, they can impact our ability to trust and allow space for our partners to learn. We dug into how we can shift these dynamics and embrace Read More . . .

Done with Dieting Episode #150: Setting Goals and Missing Marks: A Raw Recap

Here’s a powerful notion to consider: What if falling short of your goal was the best thing that could happen to you?  In this episode, I recount the highs and lows of the past year, celebrating the podcast milestones and embracing the detours, like rebranding and unforeseen setbacks.  If your expectations are tied to societal norms, let’s shake them up a bit. Personal freedom is at the core of our discussion as we wade through the waters of change and personal growth. I reassess my goals and champion the idea of embracing life’s imperfections. So, prepare yourself, the journey to personal growth isn’t about perfection but more about resilience in the face of adversity.  Lastly, I have a heart-to-heart about celebrating small behavioral victories over grand end goals. It’s easy to get disheartened when we don’t meet our lofty goals, but what if we shift our focus to smaller, more Read More . . .

Done with Dieting Episode #149: I Don’t Do It All by Myself

Do you ever feel like you’re hiding parts of yourself for fear of judgment or societal expectations? You’re not alone. In this revealing episode, I share a deeply personal and unexpected secret that has been simmering behind the scenes of my life and career. This secret isn’t just about me; it opens up a hearty discussion about what it means to be a woman in today’s world. It’s about the roles we feel compelled to play, the masks we wear, and the pressure to appear a certain way. What’s the hidden ingredient in my life? Tune in to find out. You’ll discover lessons on authenticity, vulnerability, and the courage to embrace our true selves, even when it feels uncomfortable. It’s an episode that will stir your thoughts and maybe even inspire you to unveil your secrets. Chapter Summaries: Revealing My Secret (0:00:08)  I discuss embracing our true selves, being honest Read More . . .

Done with Dieting Episode #148: Redefine Your Relationship with Alcohol with Molly Watts

Calling all thinkers and social drinkers!  Prepare to reassess your beliefs, confront societal norms, and redefine your relationship with alcohol. My guest, Molly Watts, and I take the lid off the alcohol industry, revealing the disturbing lack of health benefits associated with any level of drinking. Be prepared for a deep dive into the psychological aspects of alcohol consumption and the myths surrounding it that often go unchallenged. In this episode, we dissect the complex relationship between alcohol and anxiety. We shed light on how alcohol disrupts our brain’s homeostasis and potentially induces anxiety in the middle of the night.  Through our conversation, we aim to equip you with crucial insights about habitual drinking, the importance of good sleep hygiene, and the implications of heavy drinking. Here’s where you’ll learn how to address the anxiety that comes with tackling your drinking habits, and why it’s essential to confront it head-on. Read More . . .

Done with Dieting Episode #147: Do You Have Peter-Pan Syndrome?

In today’s upbeat and eye-opening episode, We’re taking a candid look at the “Peter Pan Syndrome,” that tendency we have to cling to youth in ways that actually make our health choices anything but youthful. I’ll take you back to when I was 22, equating fun with a whole lot of unhealthy habits, and lay bare the biases and misconceptions we often have about what being young, ‘edgy,’ or ‘fun’ really means. I’ll also dig into the hidden narratives in food marketing—ever notice how processed, unhealthy options get billed as ‘party foods,’ while anything healthy gets tagged as ‘boring’ or ‘old’? Through stories like a client of mine who was scared of losing her connection with her boyfriend by eating healthier, I’ll unfold the irrational ties we make between overeating, overdrinking, and this idea of defying aging. But here’s the real meat of today’s talk—it’s all about empowerment and self-realization. Read More . . .

Done with Dieting Episode #146: Multi-Tasking & Your Health

In this episode, I’m diving into the often-praised but harmful world of multi-tasking. Living in a society where being “busy” is seen as a badge of honor, many midlife women, like you, find themselves caught up in the relentless cycle of task-switching, never truly being present at the moment. This leads to disconnected relationships, poor self-care, and ultimately, a detrimental impact on your overall well-being. I opened up about my personal experiences with ADHD, sharing my struggle and triumph over the need to multi-task. I’ll reveal why slowing down, focusing on one thing at a time, and breaking free from the productivity culture is vital for our health and true connection with others. With humor, wisdom, and genuine understanding, I’ll guide you to recognize your worth beyond your to-do lists. I’ll provide strategies to delegate, delete, and redefine success in a way that prioritizes self-care and mindfulness. It’s not about Read More . . .

Done with Dieting Episode #145: Discovering What You Want with Stacey Oliver-Knappe

Are you ready to join Stacey on her remarkable journey of self-discovery and personal transformation? This episode is a candid exploration of Stacey’s battle with weight, societal expectations, and her relationship with food. Starting from a young age, Stacey found herself on the exhausting roller coaster of dieting, a ride many of us know all too well. She’s generously sharing her raw and relatable experiences with us, hoping to inspire others to break free from the chains of societal pressures. Stacey’s transformation was not just about changing her diet; it also involved shifting her mindset and behaviors. She learned to listen to her body, becoming curious about her patterns and habits. This process propelled her to set personal goals which led to monumental shifts in her life, including leaving her corporate job to begin a consulting gig. We dive into the power of curiosity and how it can spur personal Read More . . .

Done with Dieting Episode #144: The Upside to Envy

Ever felt a twinge of envy? Have you ever been labeled as jealous when all you did was desire someone’s achievements or possessions?  Let’s pull back the curtain on envy, an emotion often misunderstood and maligned, yet so deeply intertwined with the human condition. I’m turning this conversation on its head, not just acknowledging envy, but reclaiming it as a mirror reflecting our deepest desires.  I explore the societal narratives that paint women as rivals and discuss how envy plays a pivotal role in these portrayals. It’s time to transform this negative emotion into an empowering tool for self-awareness and self-improvement. Now, let’s talk about Schadenfreude – that umbrella term for the complex mix of emotions centered around envy. The satisfaction you feel when someone who seems to have it all stumbles. A destructive force in our relationships and communities, I explore how to recognize its influence, challenge it, and Read More . . .

Done with Dieting Episode #143: Doing It On Your Own

What if the secrets to strength and resilience are hidden in the annals of women’s shared histories?  Today, I am unearthing these stories, illuminating the silent strength of our foremothers, and embracing the power of sisterhood. I dive into the societal perceptions of women through different life stages and tackle the stigma and shame linked to women’s bodies. I recognize the wisdom in seeking help and the freedom in finding our own paths.  Imagine a time when women thrived in multigenerational living, and the guidance of elder women — the crone — was cherished. I traverse through this era, understanding the impact of patriarchy and cultural shifts on women’s communal living. I unveil the repercussions of transitioning from these cohesive communities to isolated nuclear households.  Along this journey, I find solace in the narratives woven in books like The Red Tent and Women Who Run With the Wolves. They serve Read More . . .

Done with Dieting Episode #142: Rock Your Midlife with Dr. Ellen Albertson

Wouldn’t it feel incredible to swap self-criticism for self-compassion? Are you ready to silence your inner critic and live your life authentically?  In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Ellen Albertson, also known as the midlife whisperer. She’s a force to be reckoned with, boasting a plethora of qualifications from journalist to Ph.D. psychologist, and is passionate about helping women navigate midlife with joy, energy, clarity, and confidence. Our discussion unveils Dr., Ellen’s journey, from a journalist to a self-compassion advocate. She shares her insights into how powerful self-compassion can be, with practices such as meditation leading to significant reductions in body shame and dissatisfaction.  But it’s not just about body image; we discuss the crucial role of self-compassion in managing emotions, dealing with depression, and promoting overall well-being. Dr. Ellen’s approach is a holistic one, incorporating the body, mind, heart, and spirit, inspiring us all to embrace ourselves Read More . . .

Done with Dieting Episode #141: Re-Introducing the Done with Dieting Podcast

Ever thought about what truly healthy means to you? Is it just about the number on the scale or is there more to it?  I am here, Elizabeth Sherman, to guide you through a transformative journey to health and wellness, breaking free from the traditional narrative of dieting. Instead, we aim to develop a healthier relationship with food, exercise, and ourselves.  Walk with me as I share my personal story, transitioning from a size 18-20 to a lifestyle centered on well-being. Listen as we delve into societal pressures, ageism, and how living authentically impacts our health.  What if you could redefine the norms and reclaim the narrative? This episode is about empowering women in midlife, guiding them to live robust, well-rounded lives.  Here, we challenge the status quo, and societal expectations, and redefine what it means to be a healthy woman today. We embrace personal growth over societal expectations, health Read More . . .

Done with Dieting Episode #140: Reversing the Aging Process

There was a time in my life when I viewed my wrinkles and graying hair as embarrassing signs of aging, a flawed depiction that society often perpetuates. It was a journey of self-discovery and unlearning these misconceptions that helped me realize the beauty that comes with aging and every gray hair, wrinkle, and year is a testament to our resilience, wisdom, and beauty.  Today, I’m eager to share with you all what I’ve learned about aging gracefully, challenging societal norms, and debunking myths about aging. Together, we’ll be embracing the aging process as a natural part of our existence, rather than a dreaded inevitability. As we navigate through this journey to redefine aging, we will delve deeper into the importance of health habits and self-care as they play a crucial role in aging gracefully. We’ll explore the significance of nutritional choices, regular exercise, and quality sleep and how these can Read More . . .

Done with Dieting Episode #139: End of History Illusion

What if you could break free from societal expectations and become the architect of your own life? Join me, as I guide you through my personal journey, highlighting how the ‘end of history illusion’ was holding me back and how overcoming it revolutionized my world. By sharing powerful strategies that have worked for me and many women I’ve coached, I aim to help you tackle this illusion that might be sabotaging your growth.  This episode will empower you to own your dreams and evolve into the best version of yourself. Learning to embrace failure, taking charge of your decisions, and setting clear goals can transform your life trajectory. I’ll share tips on how to focus on behavior rather than outcomes, the optional nature of timelines for goals, and the important perspective that obstacles are simply part of your progress.  As we journey together, I’ll invite you to dream big, intentionally Read More . . .

Done with Dieting Episode #138: Understanding Binge Eating with Jane Pilger

Can we truly redefine our relationship with food? That’s the provocative question we’re exploring with Jane Pilger, host of the ‘Binge Breakthrough’ podcast and a dedicated binge eating coach.  Drawing from deeply personal experiences, Jane shares her journey, her struggles, and ultimately her triumph, giving us all hope that we can do the same. She speaks candidly about the guilt and secrecy that shrouded her early encounters with binge eating and how understanding her nervous system played a pivotal role in her victory. We explore the undercurrents of binge eating, seeing it not merely as a disorder, but as a symptom of disconnection from our experiences. Jane exposes how diet culture conditions us to ignore our body’s signals, leading to a profound disconnection from our own selves.  We venture into the realm of perfectionism, discussing how our relentless chase for an ‘ideal body’ can trigger unhealthy eating habits and constant Read More . . .

Done with Dieting Episode #137: How Coaching Can Pay for Itself

Feel like investing in your health is a luxury? Let’s hit the pause button and explore the hidden costs of not getting your health in order and the rewards of investing in your well-being.  Together, we’ll unpack the societal pressures that women face regarding money and the pitfalls of quick fixes. More importantly, we’ll shed light on the power of sustainable habits and learning to trust our bodies signals. In the next part of our journey, the transformative power of coaching for health and well-being unfolds. I’ll be sharing my coaching philosophy and the inspiring stories of Susan, Teresa, and Cheryl.  These women bravely embarked on the path of change, learning to trust themselves and their bodies again. Their stories provide valuable insight into how investing in personal health and well-being can create a ripple effect of positivity in our lives.  So, are you ready to join us on this Read More . . .

Done with Dieting Episode #136: Phases of Self-Discovery

Has anyone ever asked you, “Who do you really want to be?” Many of us, especially during midlife, tend to live in service of others, often neglecting our own hopes, dreams, and desires.  Join me, as I explore the awakening, that electrifying moment when you realize that you’ve been sidelining your own needs, and it’s time to reclaim control of your life. This episode is a transformative process intended for anyone seeking self-discovery, whether you’re single, married, a mom, or have chosen to remain child-free.  Do you remember when you last allowed yourself the freedom to dream? To nurture your passions? To align your life with your deepest desires?  By embracing our truths, embracing our desires, we can live in harmony with our dreams, creating the fulfilling, authentic lives we all deserve, no matter where we find ourselves on life’s winding road. Chapter Summaries: The Journey of Self-Discovery in Midlife Read More . . .

Done with Dieting Episode #135: Stress and Toxins with Dr. Jannine Krause

Are you ready to thrive in your better years?  Join my enlightening conversation with Dr. Jannine Krause, a Naturopathic Doctor, Acupuncturist, and host of the Health Fix podcast, as we delve into her mission to help women over 35 flourish. We examine the differences between naturopathic doctors and general practitioners, and how naturopaths focus on root causes and counseling, as opposed to just treating symptoms. Additionally, we discuss the role insurance companies may play in perpetuating a more symptom-based approach. Discover the impact of plastics, hormones, and health on your well-being. We discuss the three main estrogens in the body, the sneaky additives used by the plastics industry, and the importance of testing for bisphenol levels. Learn about the dangers of heating up plastics in the microwave and drinking bottled water, as well as helpful tips for assisting your liver to process toxins. Dr. Jannine also recommends nutraceuticals like milk Read More . . .

Done with Dieting Episode #134: How to Talk to Your Partner About Starting Coaching

Ready to transform your life but worried about your partner’s reaction to your life and health coaching plans?  Fear not, as today’s episode is all about guiding you through that crucial conversation and showing you how coaching can not only improve your own well-being but also your relationships and overall quality of life. I will tackle the common hesitations many women face when approaching this discussion and arm you with the tools to overcome any obstacles along the way. Together, we’ll explore why traditional diets and exercise routines often fail and how life and health coaching can help you develop sustainable strategies and habits. I will also discuss why committing to a longer coaching program is beneficial and how the right coach can make all the difference.  By the end of this episode, you’ll feel empowered and confident to talk to your partner about your coaching journey and take the Read More . . .

Done with Dieting Episode #133: Investing in Her Future: Christine’s Story

What if you could transform your life, health, and mindset in the midst of a pandemic, parenthood, and personal challenges? Join me as I talk with Christine, who did just that, and is here to share her inspiring journey of personal growth and self-discovery. Christine faced a whirlwind of stressors – a new baby, a new home, her mother’s cancer diagnosis, and the ongoing pandemic – but she managed to turn her life around, all while working on her health and financial goals.  Together, we discuss the coaching process that helped Christine identify the root of her emotional eating, let go of others’ expectations, and build consistent routines for success. Her commitment to being a better role model for her kids, along with her husband’s unwavering support, played a crucial role in her personal transformation. But the magic doesn’t stop there – Christine also found empowerment and camaraderie in the Read More . . .

Done with Dieting Episode #132: What Happens During a Consult Call?

Ever wondered what really goes down during a consult call with me?  Prepare to have the curtain lifted as I reveal the ins and outs of a consult call, including how it’s vastly different from your traditional sales or discovery calls. I’m here to empower, not to pressure – so sit back, relax, and discover what this transformative conversation could hold for you. In today’s episode, I will walk you through the importance of preparing for a consult call, setting aside uninterrupted time, and reflecting on your goals and challenges. I dig into the questions you can expect and discuss the crucial next steps in your health journey.  Ready to embark on a path toward a healthier, happier life? Grab your favorite beverage, and let’s dive in together! Chapter Summaries: What Happens on a Consult Call (0:00:06)  A consult call explores needs, goals, and challenges, and empowers decision-making without sales Read More . . .