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 . . .

Could over-exercising and poor sleep habits be the hidden saboteurs of your energy levels?  This episode uncovers the myriad factors that could be draining your vitality, with a special focus on midlife women. I dive into personal experiences and share actionable insights on how to identify root causes like low iron levels, inadequate calorie intake, and even over-exercising.  We kick off by emphasizing the critical role of sleep, explaining how stress, anxiety, and blue light exposure can wreak havoc on your nightly rest. Along the way, I provide practical tips to improve your sleep hygiene and create a more restful environment, setting the stage for reclaiming your energy and improving your overall well-being. From recognizing the signs of over-exercising to addressing poor dietary habits, this episode covers it all. I highlight how consuming processed foods and lacking essential nutrients can leave you feeling fatigued, emphasizing the importance of listening to Read More . . .

There’s a moment of clarity that often strikes when we hear a story that resonates deeply within us—like finding a piece of ourselves we didn’t realize was missing. Tricia Millice joined me to share just that kind of narrative, one that champions female business owners in their prime, guiding them to wield their emotions as a force for personal growth.  Our conversation peeled back the layers of authenticity, as we grappled with the tug-of-war between societal expectations and the raw truth of our personal identities. We unpacked the exhausting act of people-pleasing and the courage it takes to present ourselves unapologetically across the various stages of our lives. As I sat with Tricia, the essence of feminism emerged as a beacon of autonomy and choice. It’s not about the battle of the sexes; it’s the right to decide on our life’s path without the heavy hand of misrepresentation or politicization.  Read More . . .

Unlock the secrets to better health by incorporating more vegetables into your daily routine! In this episode of the Total Health and Midlife Podcast, I reveal how nutrient-rich vegetables can transform your well-being, aid in weight management, prevent diseases, and even regulate hormones.  Struggling with spoilage or feeling frustrated by minuscule restaurant portions?  I’ve got your back with practical tips to overcome these challenges and prioritize non-starchy vegetables for their low-calorie and high-nutrient profiles. I’ll also touch on balancing fruits and veggies to keep energy levels stable and how a colorful plate can naturally edge out less nutritious options. Discover creative strategies to make vegetables a staple in your meals. From smart storage solutions to tips on partial prep, this episode is overflowing with insights to make vegetables a seamless and enjoyable part of your diet. Tune in to start making lasting changes today! What You’ll Learn from this Episode Read More . . .

Ever find yourself struggling to stick to healthy habits despite knowing their benefits?  In this episode, I uncover the secrets to making healthier choices with less effort by focusing on the concept of reducing friction. Listen in as I explore the small obstacles that make sticking to health plans challenging and share practical strategies to remove these barriers.  I’ll discuss the motivational triad and how our brains are wired to seek immediate pleasure, making habit formation difficult. By addressing our internal dialogue and the simple reasons behind our resistance—like convenience, time constraints, and discomfort—we can create a smoother path to achieving our health goals. I also tackle common hurdles in maintaining healthy habits such as staying hydrated and meal prepping. Learn how keeping water accessible and using partial prep techniques can simplify cooking and make healthy eating more manageable.  Additionally, discover how making healthy snacks more visible and accessible can Read More . . .

In this inspiring episode of the Total Health in Midlife Podcast, Elizabeth interviews Brenda, a dedicated client who shares her journey to overcoming health challenges in her late 60s. Brenda’s story is a testament to the power of personalized coaching and mindset shifts. She discusses her struggles with weight gain, and binge eating, and how Elizabeth’s coaching helped her develop a healthier relationship with food and regain control of her health. Tune in to learn about the transformative journey Brenda embarked on and the valuable lessons she learned along the way. Chapter Summaries: Transformation Through Resilience and Mindful Eating (0:00:04) Brenda shares her journey from farm life to retirement, discussing weight gain during menopause, binge eating, and embracing mindful eating. Active Retirement and Coaching Program (0:16:10)  Retirement, American Dream, group coaching, shared experiences, and sidecar coaching are discussed in this episode. Understanding and Overcoming Binging Behavior (0:21:45)  Breaking free from Read More . . .

Is weight gain during menopause really inevitable, or is it just a myth we’ve come to accept?  On today’s episode of the Total Health in Midlife podcast, I, Elizabeth Sherman, challenge the traditional views on weight management during midlife. We’ll explore why the techniques we relied on in our younger years—like extreme calorie cutting and intense workouts—are not only ineffective but downright detrimental as we age.  I’ll unpack the hormonal shifts that change how our bodies handle weight and metabolism, emphasizing why a shift toward a health-focused approach is crucial. Together, we’ll discover how understanding these changes can empower us to create sustainable habits that nourish our bodies and support overall well-being. Midlife doesn’t have to be a struggle against your own body. In the second part of our conversation, we’ll discuss how to maintain healthy habits during menopause by viewing food as an ally and exercise as an enjoyable Read More . . .

Can optimal health be redefined beyond the leanest body or strict exercise routines?  Tune in to this episode of the Total Health in Midlife podcast to uncover a different perspective on your health that fits your unique life and circumstances. We challenge the conventional wisdom that optimal health is only for the ultra-disciplined or athletes.  Instead, we champion a compassionate, inclusive approach that embraces the realities of chronic illness, demanding careers, and family responsibilities. This episode promises to empower you to redefine health on your terms, breaking free from unrealistic ideals and discovering a balanced, sustainable path to wellness. Join me as I share the inspiring journey of Carrie, who reclaimed her health after chemotherapy with the pivotal support of coaching. Learn how she navigated the ups and downs, embracing flexibility and self-compassion to maintain her healthier habits. Discover practical strategies like positive progress tracking and having a minimum baseline Read More . . .

Listen in as I guide you through the essential yet often misunderstood world of ‘hydration.’ In this conversation, I unpack why the one-size-fits-all rule of “eight glasses a day” may not hold water for everyone, and instead, I offer insights into personalizing your intake for optimal health.  I explore the critical roles that water plays in body function, energy, digestion, and cognitive performance, while also debunking common hydration myths. You’ll learn how to comfortably integrate water consumption into your daily routine and hear how this simple practice can aid in weight management, skin health, and the prevention of age-related issues. Then, we switch gears to the practical side of things, sharing personalized strategies for upping your water intake. You’ll hear from individuals like Patty, Dani, Carolee, and Jax, who’ve each found unique and sustainable ways to stay hydrated, from morning rituals to workplace games. I’ll also share my own methods, Read More . . .

In this episode of the Total Health in Midlife podcast, Elizabeth Sherman explores the relationship between health, wealth, and time across different stages of life. She emphasizes how these three elements are interconnected and impact each other, shaping our life experiences from youth through retirement.  The discussion highlights the common tendency to neglect health in pursuit of wealth and time, and how this oversight can diminish the quality of life in later years. Underscores the importance of not postponing health-oriented decisions and advocates for integrating small, manageable health habits into daily life. She encourages listeners to reflect on how they’re balancing these three critical aspects and to take action toward a healthier, more fulfilling future.  The episode serves as a wake-up call to reevaluate priorities, with a focus on health as a foundation for enjoying wealth and time, presenting practical advice and resources for listeners to make meaningful changes towards Read More . . .

Welcome back to another enlightening session of the Total Health in Midlife podcast where I, your host Elizabeth Sherman, share transformative strategies for aligning your actions with your health goals.  Today’s discussion unpacks the crucial technique of deciding ahead of time, a revelation that’s been instrumental in my coaching and personal life. Listen in as we explore the gap between intention and action and why it’s not a matter of discipline, but about understanding the subconscious objections that prevent us from following through with our health habits. Have you ever found yourself wondering why the fitness plans you set with so much enthusiasm often crumble? It’s not uncommon to overestimate our future motivation, and that’s why our conversation today is centered around building self-trust through realistic and adaptable planning.  Join me as we emphasize the significance of flexibility, enjoyment, and starting small in creating a sustainable health routine. We also Read More . . .

Unlock the secrets to your best health as I, Elizabeth Sherman, guide you through the eight basic habits that form the cornerstone of lifelong vitality. I’ve honed these practices through years of dedicated coaching, and now I’m bringing them straight to your ears with fresh insights and hands-on advice.  Today’s episode is crammed with personal stories, like my own protein-packed journey during my bodybuilding days, and inspiring successes from women like Renee and Stephanie, who reshaped their relationship with food and their bodies by adhering to these foundational habits. Discover how subtle changes, like adjusting portion sizes and integrating movement into your routine, can have monumental effects on your physical and mental well-being.  We wrap up with a heartfelt invitation to join a community that celebrates every step forward, where your smallest progress is met with the loudest cheers. This podcast isn’t just about listening—it’s about sparking action, embracing change, Read More . . .