Done with Dieting Episode #7: What’s it mean to Listen to your Body

We’re told that we should listen to our body. What does that even mean? Nobody ever taught me that. Was I missing from school that day?  When I was on my quest to get my eating and desire for sweets under control, I was always amazed at people who could eat just one cookie. And so when I started talking to them about their eating habits, I learned that they paid attention to how food made them feel. It was something that I never thought about.  Sure! I knew when I was hungry & occasionally I knew when I had overeaten, but when I started actually paying attention to my body, I learned that my body gave me subtle cues  that were my body’s way of communicating with me about what it needed. Listening to your body is the first step in creating the awareness needed to decode the messages Read More . . .

Are plateaus your body’s braking system?

Losing weight is hard. But keeping it off seems to be even more difficult. When I started my weight loss journey, I was resolved to not become one of the statistics of folks who would regain their lost weight back. I had decided that I couldn’t afford to regain my lost weight. It was going to stick. That doesn’t mean that the road to my success was linear. I certainly had set backs, I did a lot of stupid things (and learned from them – you can read ALLLL about them here   In the 7 Mistakes I made during my weight loss journey & the fixes to prevent you from doing the same). I emptied my wallet to buy supplements; I scoured every magazine to find my magic bullet (there isn’t any). I was tenacious. And for about 10 years, it was what I was singularly focused on – my weight. It really Read More . . .

Products & Services

General Health & Mindset 8 Basic Habits Guide & Checklist Health & fitness advice can be confusing. Which techniques will help you lose weight safely? Which things should I be doing on a daily basis? Which habits are best for maintaining my health and mobility as I age? If you’ve ever gotten overwhelmed with all of the health advice, and just want to get back to basics, you need the 8 Basic Things that Healthy People Do. In this guide, I’ve boiled down all of the health advice to 8 simple, easy to do habits. If you make these habits, you will be certain that you’re becoming healthier by the day! Health is a continuum. It shouldn’t be complicated or difficult. With this guide and checklist, you’ll have a great foundation of health & weight loss AND you’ll be able to lean into your new lifestyle – which is a better, Read More . . .

Happily Ever After

I love the TV show "The Biggest Loser". I don't really know why I like watching it so much, but I do. I'm amazed at the contestants losing 3 to 20 lbs on a weekly basis. It's fantastic to see the contestants get smaller and smaller and smaller & then see what they looked like at the beginning of the show. I really couldn't care less about the drama – I TiVo it for that same reason – so that I can skip over the overly dramatic TV crap – that way, I can get through a 60 minute show in less than 40 minutes. Although I was never as heavy as the folks who are on that show, I can relate to their struggles & am completely jealous that I didn't have a team of doctors, dietitians and personal trainers at my disposal when I went through my weight Read More . . .

Total Health in Midlife Episode #180: Overcoming Binge Eating: Brenda’s Story

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 . . .

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 . . .

Total Health in Midlife Episode #177: Why do I Need to Drink Water?

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 . . .

Total Health in Midlife Episode #174: The Foundation v2.0

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 . . .

Total Health in Midlife Episode #173: Purse Strings w/ Maggie Nielson & Barb Provost

Unlock the power of financial independence and shatter the myth that money management is solely a man’s world with Dr. Barb Provost and Maggie Nielsen of Purse Strings. Our latest conversation is a testament to the strength and resilience of women who are ready to take charge of their financial futures.  We dive into the heart of personal finance, addressing the unique challenges women face from career breaks to longer life expectancies, and how these can be navigated with confidence and savvy planning. Through inspiring stories and practical advice, Barb and Maggie guide us on becoming financially fearless, regardless of life’s unexpected twists. Feel the electricity of empowerment as we tackle the discomfort and exclusion many women encounter within the financial services industry. We highlight the importance of seeking financial advisors who respect and understand the distinct financial journey women often face, reiterating the importance of being informed and involved Read More . . .

Total Health in Midlife Episode #172: The Paradox of Body Acceptance

Have you ever felt at war with your own reflection?  Join me as we step into the emotional battleground of body image and acceptance, with a focus on the midlife experience. This episode is a heart-to-heart about the conflicting messages we receive on self-worth and physical appearance, dissecting how societal expectations can lead to feelings of inadequacy, and offering a compassionate space to explore these complex emotions.  From personal anecdotes to the wider societal context, we navigate the intricacies of body neutrality, body positivity, and the Health at Every Size movement, providing a supportive backdrop for listeners facing similar journeys. Amidst the pressures of looking a certain way, especially during midlife, can we find peace with our changing bodies? Our conversation reveals the harsh realities of fatphobia but also unpacks the liberating philosophies that can lead us to self-compassion.  As we dive into the paradoxes of striving for change while Read More . . .

Total Health in Midlife Episode #170: Skills for Success

Have you ever felt like you’re on a health and wellness merry-go-round, hopping from one trend to the next, never really finding your footing? That’s where we come in.  Join me, Elizabeth Sherman, on a journey to the heart of sustainable well-being. This isn’t about another fad; it’s about mastering the skills for enduring health, particularly as we navigate the transformative years of midlife.  We’ll unpack the art of stress management, the intricacies of emotional eating, and the crucial development of self-trust. You’ll be inspired by the tale of a client who found her own rhythm by tuning into her body’s wisdom, proving the unmatched power of internal cues over external noise. As we continue, you’ll discover the silent game-changers of health: the psychological and emotional scaffolds that support lasting weight loss and vitality. Ever consider how a straightforward yes-or-no skills inventory could illuminate your journey?  Prepare to see it Read More . . .

Total Health in Midlife Episode #164: I Know What to Do. I’m Just Not Doing It!

My journey from a health professional battling with my own vices to someone who preaches wellness wasn’t an overnight transformation. It began with a heart-wrenching wake-up call during my mother’s illness and led me down a path of discovery—realizing that knowledge alone isn’t enough to foster the change we seek.  That’s why we’re unwrapping the complex layers that lie between understanding health and living it, highlighting the indispensable role of personalized coaching. By sharing my own experiences, I aim to illuminate how tailored insights and accountability can revolutionize our approach, turning information into action for a healthier, more fulfilling life. This episode isn’t just about what to do; it’s about setting goals that resonate and creating a vision that sticks. We dissect the SMART framework to show how effective goal-setting can lead to remarkable achievements when aligned with personal values.  As we explore the need for regular check-ins and customized Read More . . .

Total Health in Midlife Episode #163: Men’s Midlife Health w/ Craig Spear

What happens when the invincibility of youth starts to fade, and the reality of aging and health decline sets in? Can men truly embrace self-care and emotional vulnerability as they cross over the age of 40?  Join us as we navigate these thought-provoking questions with the unique insights of our esteemed guest, Craig Spear, a renowned men’s health and weight loss coach.  Craig Spear, once a professional athlete and now a passionate advocate for men’s health, shares his journey and his mission to help men, particularly those over 40. He dives into his experiences of creating inclusive gym environments and explores the emotional pain and fears many men face that lead them to seek help.  With Craig’s expert guidance, we uncover the obstacles around self-care and emotional engagement, offering pragmatic advice on overcoming these hurdles. This deep-dive conversation unravels the complexities around defining optimal health and how it varies for 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 #160: Ex-Good Girl with Sara Fisk

As I navigated the waves of midlife, I found myself shedding the layers of a people-pleaser, much like the leaves fall from the trees in autumn. It’s a transformation that many women can relate to, and it’s exactly why I invited Sara Fisk, the voice behind the Ex-Good Girl Podcast, to join me in a heart-to-heart conversation about this significant phase of life.  We explored the often rocky terrain of midlife and women’s health, discussing how to practice self-care authentically and how to deal with the sometimes dismissive medical community when it comes to menopause. Our chat brought to light the need for self-awareness as we navigate the societal shifts and personal changes that come with this stage in life. Our relationship with food is as complex as the most intricate of dances, and Sara and I took a moment to step into the rhythm of this topic. We shared Read More . . .

Total Health in Midlife Episode #159: Fault vs Responsibility

I remember the moment I realized that my health was not just a product of my genetics but a canvas I could paint with my choices and actions. It was a profound transformation from feeling like a helpless bystander in my own body to becoming the artist of my well-being.  On this episode of Total Health in Midlife, I, Elizabeth Sherman, invite you on a journey to unlock the potential of a mindset geared towards health empowerment.  We’ll unearth why we often feel trapped by our genetics and upbringing, and how acknowledging our role in creating our health narratives can lead to profound change. Get ready to challenge old beliefs and embrace the effort it takes to achieve your health goals. As we peel back the layers of self-pity and victimhood, we discover the resilience of taking personal responsibility for our well-being. Whether you’re navigating injuries, health diagnoses, or the Read More . . .

Total Health in Midlife Episode #157: Listening to Your Body with Lisa & Stephanie

Ever wondered how two ordinary women, Lisa and Stephanie, navigated their struggles with weight and body image?  Join us as they share their inspiring stories, from discovering intuitive eating and the Feel Good Sisterhood to overcoming menopause setbacks. You’ll be captivated by their resilience in the face of adversity and their pursuit of self-confidence and body positivity.  We break away from the common gym culture and delve into the importance of finding enjoyable, sustainable forms of exercise. Be inspired by our guests’ experiences with a year-long program, where they learned to redefine their relationship with food and movement, supported by a sisterhood of women on the same journey.  Listen, as we unpack emotional eating, explore the complex mind-food connection, and reveal how to make healthier choices without succumbing to guilt and immediate cravings.  To wrap up, we celebrate the triumphant health transformations of Lisa and Stephanie, illustrating how aligning healthy Read More . . .

Total Health in Midlife Episode #155: An Introduction

Are you ready to ditch the diet culture and quick fixes, and embrace a richer, more meaningful definition of health and wellness in midlife? Welcome to Total Health in Midlife, a podcast that goes beyond the surface level to explore a holistic approach to well-being. We’ll challenge traditional weight-loss narratives and explore the science of aging, self-care, and extending our health span. What does it truly mean to be healthy in midlife?  It’s not just about the physical, it’s about creating a robust, fulfilling life for ourselves and the future. We’ll explore the undeniable importance of self-compassion, developing a healthy relationship with ourselves, and fostering connection with our communities. Join me as we unpack essential topics like menopause, feminism, and social justice through the lens of health and well-being. We’ll dive into the power of self-care, navigate the challenges of aging, and discover how self-compassion can be a game-changer in Read More . . .

Goal Setting Series #1: Setting Realistic Goals

Are your goals often oversized and unrealistic, leading to feelings of failure and disappointment when you can’t meet them?  Join me as I redefine goal setting in the context of midlife, focusing on the power of achievable, behavior-focused goals that lead to lasting change. I share personal experiences and insights, shedding light on the necessity of meeting ourselves where we currently are in life.  We challenge the norm, demonstrating that it’s entirely okay, and even necessary, to adjust and evolve our goals as we grow, highlighting the importance of flexibility in this process. I also talk about common goal-setting myths, debunking them one by one. I illuminate the value of adaptability and the power of taking small, deliberate steps towards your future.  I invite you to journey with me, transforming your aspirations into attainable realities, and making this year a year of true growth and fulfillment. Get ready to change Read More . . .

What Every Employer Should Know:

The Changing Landscape of Health in Midlife As we approach January, a month synonymous with new beginnings and resolutions, it’s crucial to reexamine our approach to health, especially in the context of midlife. The new year brings with it a sense of endless possibility, a fresh start where transformation feels not just plausible but inevitable. We often set goals with a focus on physical health, envisioning a year where we finally achieve our fitness objectives. Yet, one of the key reasons many of us struggle to stick to our New Year’s resolutions isn’t due to a lack of discipline, willpower, or desire. Rather, it’s because we tend to overlook the fact that our health doesn’t exist in a silo; where physical health isn’t isolated but deeply interconnected with our emotional and mental well-being. Our lives are a blend of various elements – our family, work, and personal aspirations all interconnect, Read More . . .