Late Bloomer Living Podcast

EP 191: Redefining Menopause with Rachel Lankester

Think menopause is nothing but bad news? Think again! In this episode, we talk with Rachel Lankester, host of the Magnificent Midlife podcast, about taking another look at menopause and considering how it could actually be a powerful, positive experience. 

 

Rachel shares her menopause journey which started with an early diagnosis at the age of 41, how it led her to start a podcast and write a book on the subject, as well as starting an information hub called MenoClarity where women can get unbiased information about menopause.  In this conversation we dive into the importance of changing the negative narrative around aging, and the role of menopause in the lifetime of a woman. 

 

Rachel Lankester is a champion for women, and believes that changing our mindset can make all the difference when it comes to our experience of the menopause journey. 

 

Whether you’re going through menopause or know someone who is, this chat is full of encouragement and fresh perspectives. 

EP 190: Parent Imperfect: A Conversation with Novelist Paul Lamb

Join us for a special Father’s Day episode with Paul Lamb, who returns to the podcast for a second time. In our first conversation (Episode 148), we discussed Paul’s journey to becoming a writer. He never gave up on his dream while raising a family and working to support them. Starting with freelance feature articles, he eventually found great satisfaction in writing fictional short stories, one of which grew into his debut novel, One-Match Fire. Now retired from the business world,Paul enjoys the freedom to pursue his writing fully, and he’s written a sequel to One-Match Fire, titled Parent Imperfect.

 

In this episode, Paul shares how his experiences as both a father and a son shape his storytelling. He focuses on intergenerational family relationships and the complexities within them. Paul’s family life deeply influences his work even though it isn’t auto biographical. 

 

Celebrate Father’s Day with us as we delve into stories about family life, fatherhood, and the inspiration it brings. Join us for a heartfelt conversation that honors dads everywhere.

EP 189: 4 Year Anniversary Episode: Breaking Negative Cycles with Donita Wheeler

Ever feel like you're stuck in a cycle of negative reactions?

 

Join us for a special 4-year anniversary celebration of the podcast as Yvonne welcomes back Donita Wheeler, the very first guest on the Late Bloomer Living Podcast. 

 

In this episode, they chat about the transformative power of responding instead of reacting and how to release negative energy. Through personal stories and practical tips, Donita shares how shifting your mindset and energy can lead to a more peaceful, fulfilling life. 

 

Tune in for an inspiring conversation on breaking free from negativity and embracing a calmer, more intentional way of living.

 

Donita Wheeler is also known as Donita Mama Bear.  You can listen to her original interview on Episode 2: Reinvention and Survivorship with Donita Wheeler

 

EP 188: 40 Years, 40 Drinks and Conversations that Matter with Stephanie McLaughlin

Instead of throwing a lavish party, for her milestone 40th birthday, Stephanie McLaughlin opted for something more meaningful: 40 thoughtful conversations over drinks. This project idea turned into an unintentional journey of self-discovery that has had lasting influence in Stephanie’s life. Join us for a conversation about her "Forty Drinks" project.

Now at 52, Stephanie shares how her initial project evolved into starting The Forty Drinks Podcast. With the idea of talking to other people about their experience of turning 40, Stephanie embarked on a mission to explore the transitions that occur around this significant age. Discover how this simple yet profound project led Stephanie to reevaluate her self-perception, particularly her long-held belief that she was always "one of the guys."

Through reconnecting with old friends, she gained fresh insights into herself and her relationships.

Grab a drink and join us as we delve into Stephanie's inspiring story.

EP 187: Strength, Fitness, and Fun at Any Age with Mimi Ison

Ever wonder how to keep feeling healthy and energetic no matter your age? This week, we're hanging out with Mimi Ison, who has some amazing stories and advice on just that. Mimi, also known as Hey Middle Age on her blog and Instagram, is all about saying 'yes' to new adventures, and she'll inspire you to do the same. 

 

We also get real about ageism—how it messes with our heads and what we can do to push back.

 

And if you've been slacking on your workouts, Mimi's got some straightforward tips on why strength training is key to staying strong and independent. Tune in for a fun and inspiring chat that’ll make you see aging in a whole new light!

EP 186: Generations of Strength: A Mother's Day Special with Lynnis Woods Mullins

Have you ever thought about how much your mother’s example has influenced your life? 

 

This is part 2 of a Mother’s Day series in which we are celebrating the power of intergenerational influence and maternal lineage. This episode features a conversation with the remarkable Lynnis Woods Mullins. 

 

Join us as Lynnis shares her deeply personal journey of holistic healing and empowerment, shaped by the wisdom passed down through generations of resilient women in her family.  In this conversation, Lynnis reflects on the profound impact of her mother's legacy and the invaluable lessons learned from maternal figures in her life.

 

Lynnis shares her journey from anxiety to empowerment, and her discovery of holistic wellness practices that helped her find her balance.  That journey led her to her current mission of helping other women as a Holistic Living and Wellness Coach for women over 40.  For over 16 years, Lynnis has empowered women through coaching programs, e-books, webinars, podcasts, and special events.

 

Get ready for a candid conversation about self-care, resilience, and the wisdom passed down through generations. It's time to honor the women who paved our paths and celebrate the strength they instill in us.

EP 185: Mama Outspoken with Jill Olish

Ever feel like you're barely keeping it together while juggling motherhood, work, and everything in between? Tune in for this conversation with guest Jill Olish, where we dive into the messy world of self-care and finding balance in chaos.

In this episode, Jill shares her journey of redefining self-care beyond the usual clichés, revealing how simple joys and mindset shifts transformed her daily life. From picking up dog poop to embracing playful moments, discover how to infuse every day with joy and fulfillment, even amidst the chaos of motherhood and entrepreneurship.

Join us as we explore practical tips and heartfelt insights to help you navigate the complexities of modern life while prioritizing your well-being.

EP 184: Older Women and Friends with Jane Leder

Our guest is Jane Leder, host of the "Older Women and Friends" podcast!

 

Jane shares her journey into podcasting at age 75, driven by a desire for a new creative outlet beyond writing. 

 

Her podcast aims to challenge stereotypes about older women and highlight their stories. 

 

Jane discusses the importance of adaptation and humor in aging, as well as the value of intergenerational friendships. Despite societal pressures, she encourages self-acceptance and emphasizes the joy found in playfulness. 

 

Throughout the conversation, Jane's personality shines, inspiring listeners to embrace life at any age.

EP 183: Snapshot of Strength: Jess Wilson's Cancer Journey and Creative Pivot

Jess Wilson is a seasoned photographer with over 20 years of experience.

 

Despite facing the challenge of thyroid cancer during the COVID-19 pandemic, Jess found innovative ways to continue her photography business while prioritizing her health. She discovered the power of remote photography sessions, adapting to tools like FaceTime and the Shutter app to capture stunning images for clients worldwide.

 

Jess also juggles homeschooling her grandkids while running her business, showcasing her resilience and determination.

 

Through her journey, Jess learned to set boundaries, prioritize self-care, and embrace a new perspective on life.

EP 182: Parenting Young Adults with Parent Coach Kim Muench

Are you having a tough time talking to your older teen or young adult?  If they are living at home with you, how do you deal with setting rules for them?  Do you find yourself constantly biting your tongue, or are you in constant conflict with them? 

There comes a point when your kid starts growing up, and you need to realize they're their own person now. It's like, “Holy crickets! They're in charge of their own life, now!”  For parents, this shift to a new kind of relationship with their adult child can be pretty tricky.

That’s why my guest this week is Parent Coach, Kim Muench. She’s the Founder of Real Life Parent Guide.  Kim is a Certified Conscious Parenting Coach with the Jai Institute for Parenting, and specializes in working with parents of emerging adults (ages 18-29).

In this conversation we talk about setting healthy boundaries as the relationship with your child shifts under your feet. Kim has some solid ideas about how to open up the lines of communication and reconnect with your child.  Hint: Much of the work starts with us, the parents.  

 

**This is Kim's second time on the podcast.  In our first conversation (Episode 117) we talked about her own challenges as a parent which led her to become a parenting coach.  In 2008, her oldest son called her from across the country to say he was in trouble… he was failing classes, about to lose his job, and his use of alcohol was totally out of control.