Mixing Up Midlife

Summer Break: A Pause, Not a Goodbye In this heartfelt episode of 'Mixing Up Midlife,' hosts Terri and Melissa discuss the challenges of balancing their beloved podcast with their busy lives. As they reflect on their journey and shared passion for creating content for women in their fifties and beyond, they announce a much-needed summer break. They talk candidly about their personal struggles and the importance of living in the moment, Tune in for a therapeutic and honest conversation about stepping back to move forward. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:49 Podcast Challenges and Reflections 01:47 Taking a Break: Personal Overwhelm 05:04 Future Plans and Listener Engagement 08:59 Social Media and Content Creation 11:46 Living in the Moment 15:10 Conclusion and See you soon Mix It Up with US Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok

The Power of User-Generated Content in Boosting Brand Popularity In this episode, we explore user-generated content. Is it a good money maker for women over 50? We’ve got lots of questions and very few answers! 00:00 Introduction to Mixing at Midlife 00:47 Understanding User Generated Content (UGC) 03:10 The Value of UGC for Women Over 50 07:10 How to Get Started with UGC 16:51 Weekend Watch and Podcast Updates Here’s the article we quoted Mix It Up with US Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok

Terri and Melissa discuss the importance of micro vacations, and share their recent getaway experiences. We talk about memorable discussions from our last guest, Jean Blasberg, and the overarching philosophy of 'using your life as a laboratory.' Is writing your own obituary a trend? We wrap up the episode with weekend watches, noting shows like 'Dark Matter' and 'Hacks,' and contemplate future content such as a book club discussion. Mix It Up with US Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok Youtube 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview 00:17 Micro Vacations: Importance and Ease in Summer 01:00 Book Club and Guest Discussions 01:25 Podcast Production Challenges 04:56 Reflections on Podcast Success and Growth 06:29 Listener Engagement and International Reach 07:26 Mini Vacation Stories: Cabin Getaway 11:10 Mini Vacation Stories: Day Trip to Charlestown 15:12 The Joy of Mini Vacations and Seasonal Preferences 16:45 Morning Bird Troubles 17:00 Try or Buy: Gimbals for Phones 19:52 TikTok Trends and Obituaries 24:07 Weekend Watch: TV Shows and Movies 28:45 Brooke Shields and Hair Care 30:20 Podcast Wrap-Up

Today we’re sitting down with award-winning author Jeanne Blasberg to discuss Jeanne's journey from writing successful novels like 'The Nine' and 'Eden’, to embracing a new life as a regenerative farmer in Wisconsin. Jeanne talks about the challenges and rewards of farming, the importance of curiosity and trying new things, and how her experiences have influenced her writing. She also offers advice on pursuing creative passions later in life, emphasizing the value of consistent effort and experimentation. Make sure to check out Jeanne’s new novel ‘Daughter of a Promise’ wherever books are sold! Find Jeanne Here: Website Instagram Facebook Mix It Up with US Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok Youtube 00:00 Introduction to Mixing Up Midlife 00:17 Meet Jeanne Blasberg: Award-Winning Author 01:32 Jeanne's Writing Journey 03:00 Life Changes and New Beginnings 04:14 Farming Adventures in Wisconsin 08:23 Challenges and Rewards of Farm Life 13:50 Jeanne's Writing Process and Advice 25:14 Promoting 'Daughter of a Promise' 28:00 Conclusion and Farewell

Ready for a pop culture deep dive with a midlife twist? This week on Mixing Up Midlife, Terri and Melissa are back with a fun-filled episode, catching you up on all things midlife pop culture and sharing some personal adventures along the way. What's on Tap? Midlife Adventures:TikTok Takeover Fashion Files:Pop Culture Reflections:Aging with Grace: Plus: Personal updates, Summer announcements, and of course, plenty of laughs! Don't miss this episode - it's a midlife pop culture party you won't want to miss! Tyla Gets Ready for the Met Demi Moore Met Gala 2024 Gen-X dancing to Small Town Boy Girl On Couch Original The Golden Bachelorette, Joan Vassos Gayle King SI Cover The Substance Demi Moore Cannes Film Festival Melissa’s Mini Branding Photo Session Mix It Up with US Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok Youtube

Equine Gestalt Coaching: Ever wonder how horses can help you heal? This week on Mixing Up Midlife, Terri and Melissa chat with Allison Goldfarb, a certified Equine Gestalt Coach who uses the magic of horses to unlock emotional transformation. Allison explains how she combines gestalt psychology with the incredible intuition of horses to help people overcome emotional baggage and past hurts. We're talking deep dives, personal stories, and powerful connections formed between humans and these majestic creatures. Plus, Terri and Melissa get the scoop on Allison's journey from corporate science whiz to equine therapy guru! You'll also hear about how she keeps her equine partners happy and involved in the whole process (because consent matters, even for horses!). Whether you're curious about alternative therapies or just love animals, this episode is a must-listen! Don't miss it! Mixing Up Midlife is for entertainment purposes only. The information and opinions shared here are not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns you may have.

Melissa becomes the guest today as she & Terri talk about the value of stepping out of your comfort zone and investing in yourself, particularly in midlife. The discussion pivots around Melissa's recent experience of being on the other side of the camera for a branding photo session, emphasizing the value of high-quality photography for personal branding and the importance of preparation. If you're interested in a mini branding session with Melissa in are the DC area on June 6 or in Connecticut July 17th (ish) please contact Melissa through her website or DM her via Instagram Mix It Up with US Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok Youtube Weekend Watch Franklin Apple TV+ The Sympathizer HBOMax 00:00 Introduction to Mixing Up Midlife 00:21 Special Episode: Interview with Co-Host Melissa 01:11 Melissa's Branding Photo Session Experience 07:43 The Importance of Investing in Yourself 15:10 Weekend Watch Recommendations 18:09 Try It or Buy It: Gimbal Discussion 22:07 Closing Thoughts and Goodbyes

Small Steps to Sustainable Living We’re talking about the small, eco-friendly steps we’ve taken over the past year and revisiting our interview with Trace Zero Waste owner, Mala Persaud. Learn about simple swaps like bamboo washcloths and cloth napkins, along with the challenges and triumphs of minimizing paper towel use. The episode also explores innovative sustainable products and eco-friendly cleaning methods. Inspired to make a difference? Let us know how you’re reducing waste one small step at a time! Key Points: Links and Resources, some may be affiliate links Mala Persaud Episode 160 CBS Sunday Morning EPA Drinking Water Standards Clean People Toto Bidet Blueland Toilet Bowl Cleaner Mix It Up with US Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok Youtube Earth Day Reflections: Reducing Waste and Sustainable Living 00:00 Opening Banter: Fashion Faux Pas 00:40 Introducing the Podcast and Today's Theme 00:51 Recapping Earth Day Episode with Mala Persaud 03:48 Reflecting on a Year of Sustainable Changes 04:17 Deep Dive into Sustainable Living Practices 05:17 The Bidet Revolution: A Personal Journey 09:09 Expanding Sustainable Practices Beyond the Bathroom 19:22 Reflections and Future Goals for Sustainability 20:51 Closing Thoughts and Invitations 21:20 Outtakes and Bloopers

Are you experiencing glimmers or triggers? In the he aftermath of a lost recording, Terri & Melissa share their experiences with technology mishaps, and introduce the concept of 'Glimmers'—positive experiences that contrast with triggers, often associated with negative emotions. They explain the psychological benefits of recognizing glimmers, drawing from an article in Real Simple and videos on TikTok. If you're in Vienna, VA, make sure to check out Royal Nepal Bistro & The Mixx Delight TikTok Talk/ GlimmerTok https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTLDTUdx4/ https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTLDTPPrp/ https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTLDTfnqa/ https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTLDTAKfk/ https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTLDTBxv9/ https://www.tiktok.com/t/ZTLDThnEq/ Real Simple Article on Glimmers Weekend Watch: 3 Body Problem Ripley Curb Your Enthusiasm Extraordinary The Diplomat The Regime Poor Things 00:00 Opening Banter and a Lost Episode 00:15 The Tale of the Deleted Recording 02:04 Tech Woes and the Fear of Losing Work 03:27 Exploring Glimmers: A Journey of Joy and Connectedness 04:52 The Challenges of Finding Glimmers 08:35 Melissa's Book Binding Adventure and Glimmer Moments 11:51 A Glimmer of Connection Through Photography 15:07 Exploring Cultures Through Food: A Journey of Connection 15:54 The Eclipse Experience: A Reflection on Connectedness 17:38 Chasing the Glimmer: Finding Joy in the Little Things 18:44 What We're Watching: A Dive into Current Shows and Movies 21:28 Extraordinary Finds: Discovering Unique Shows and Movies 24:24 The Power of Originality: Celebrating Unique Film Concepts 25:49 Closing Thoughts: The Pursuit of Glimmer

Transforming Midlife Through Weightlifting: Kim Rahir’s Journey from MS to Master Athlete In this episode of 'Mixing Up Midlife,' hosts Terri and Melissa explore the power of physical strength and mental resilience with their guest, Kim Rahir. Kim is a 60 year old mother of three who was diagnosed with MS 10 years ago and decided to ignore her doctor's advice and muscle her way back to a happy life. This year she became European Champion in Masters Weightlifting in her age and weight category. Her journey inspired her to leave her career in journalism in her 50s and become a health coach for middle aged women - with a big focus on reactivating and rebuilding muscle. Today, she helps women tap into an abundant source of vitality by reactivating and maintaining their muscles, while ditching diet culture conditioning to actually eat to nourish and flourish. 00:00 Welcome to Mixing Up Midlife: Introducing Kim's Inspiring Journey 00:58 Kim's Battle with Autoimmune Diseases: From Diagnosis to Recovery 09:53 Embracing Strength: Kim's Transition to Weightlifting 15:52 From Gym Sessions to Olympic Weightlifting: Kim's Competitive Ascent 16:24 The Journey into Weightlifting: Challenges and Triumphs 17:52 Embracing the Weightlifting Community and Overcoming Age Stereotypes 19:21 The Transformative Power of Weightlifting on Mind and Body 25:35 Empowering Midlife Women Through Tailored Strength Training Find Kim: Website Facebook Instagram Mix It Up with US Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok Youtube

TikTok has made it easier than ever to find new hobbies to try. Melissa doesn’t want more stuff, but Terri went down a paperback to hardcover book binding rabbit hole and is now obsessed. We have 4 News Items that women over 50 might be interested in and the Weekend Watch. Executive Order on Women’s Midlife Health Older Models at Paris Fashion Week Anne Hathaway The Idea of YouEarlybirds Club Weekend Watch Huge in France 3 Body Problem The Gentleman Constellation 00:00 Kicking Off with Casual Banter and News Discussion 12:06 Exploring the World of Bookbinding 16:15 Exploring New Hobbies and the Joy of Crafting 22:00 Weekend Watch: Diving into Weekend Watch Mix It Up with US Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok Youtube Sources and Resources- Some may be affiliate links Bookbinding: Hollanders Amazon Cutting Mat Rulers Bone Folder Silicone Brush PVA Glue End Papers/ Decorative Card stock Headbands Mull/Super Cloth Chipboard Book Press Book cloth Cricut Maker 3

In this episode of 'Mixing Up Midlife,' hosts Terri and Melissa welcome Cori Myka, the founder of Calm Within Adult Swim and the creator of the Foundations of Change Learning Method. Cori shares her insights on the transformative power of learning to swim as an adult, addressing common fears and obstacles. The discussion explores Cori's approach to teaching swimming, which emphasizes a mindset-first methodology and breaking down learning into small, manageable steps. Cori also discusses the importance of understanding individual differences in buoyancy and responses to water. The episode delves into the offerings of Cori's program, including online modules and retreats designed to help adults feel comfortable and confident in water. Despite a technical glitch that cuts Cori's participation short, Terri and Melissa wrap up by summarizing Cori's key points and sharing how listeners can find more information about Cori's courses and retreats. Find Cori: Website Facebook Instagram Mix It Up with Us Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok 0:00 Calm Within Adult Swim: Overcoming Hurdles and Embracing Tiny Adventures with Cori Myka 00:05 00:05 Welcome to Mixing Up Midlife: Diving into Adult Swimming 00:15 Meet Cori: The Adult Swim Guru 01:03 The Journey of Learning to Swim as an Adult 01:16 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Tiny Adventures 02:56 The Unique Challenges of Adult Learners 05:44 Cori's Innovative Approach to Teaching Swimming 05:49 Cori's Approach: Mindset Over Skills 10:17 Breathing: The First Step to Conquering Swimming Fears 10:53 Exploring the Online Swimming Lessons Frontier 11:59 Personalizing the Swimming Experience 12:24 Understanding Buoyancy and Body Mechanics 12:39 Understanding Buoyancy and Body Mechanics in Swimming 14:25 The Science of Buoyancy in Swimming 15:08 The Future of Swimming: Online Learning and Beyond 15:21 The Evolution of Learning to Swim 16:05 Breaking Down the Online Swim Program 18:06 Overcoming Fear with the Learn to Swim Program 18:41 Personal Experiences and the Importance of Calm 19:54 Wrapping Up and Exploring Cori's Programs 22:52 Mixing Up Midlife: Challenges, Bingo, and More

We’re celebrating our beloved 'Mixing Up Midlife' since we just hit a HUGE milestone- our 200th episode! It's been a wild ride filled with adventures, curiosity, and, well, some unexpected steamy book moments. Fourth Wing had us blushing a bit! If you haven’t read it, it's like 'Hunger Games' but with dragons, a touch of magic, and a whole lot of steaminess. Melissa and Terri have finally launched the Ageless Adventure Bingo Card- it’s all about making goal-setting fun and gamified - think of it as a nudge to try new stuff in a playful way. We share some past episodes that stayed with us, our latest TikTok obsessions, a few weekend watches and some puppy antics Here's to 200 episodes - and who knows, maybe we’ll even hit 400!

In this episode of 'Mixing a Midlife,' hosts Terri and Melissa explore the adventure of a lifetime with their special guest, Joanne McGinley, who shares her experience climbing Mount Kilimanjaro at the age of 55. Joanne, a former stay-at-home mom who later built a fitness community and survived the challenges of COVID-19 with her studio, embarked on this journey as part of fulfilling her bucket list. The conversation touches on Joanne's motivations, preparations, and the physical and mental challenges she faced during the climb. It also delves into the importance of strength and mobility training for such an endeavor, alongside the value of embarking on adventures that push one's limits. The episode touches upon the logistics of the climb, and underscores the deep personal growth and confidence gained from stepping outside one's comfort zone, especially in midlife. Joanne's narrative about climbing Kilimanjaro underlines the transformative power of adventure and the importance of pursuing one's desires regardless of age. 00:48 Joanne's Journey: From Fitness Instructor to Adventurer 02:02 Joanne's Decision to Climb Mount Kilimanjaro 04:44 The Journey to Kilimanjaro Begins 10:09 The Preparation and Training for the Climb 16:50 Reflecting on the Journey and the Summit 20:26 The Importance of Mobility and Strength 26:38 The Freedom of Being Off the Grid 27:19 The Future Adventures and Bucket List 32:43 The Importance of Taking the Leap 34:23 Final Thoughts and Contact Information FInd Joann: Instagram Youtube TikTok Website Mix It Up with US Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok Youtube Mentioned: Thomson Safaris

Terri is turning 60 and we’re celebrating! In this emergency podcast episode, Terri & Melissa talk about marking this milestone, the significance of turning 60 and some of the challenges. Terri calls BS on herself and is determined to live more adventurously by doing more of the things she and Melissa encourage others to do. The episode includes a fun Turning 60 trivia quiz, a TikTok that’s a masterclass in story telling and a new weekend watch. 00:00 Introduction and Birthday Celebrations 00:46 Self-Reflection and Future Plans 06:48 Fun Trivia and Quiz Time 13:33 The 60-Year-Old Fact Master Quiz 14:21 Dreams, Podcasts, and TikTok Stories 21:15 The Art of Storytelling and Future Plans Mix It Up with Us Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok

Step into the world of Dungeons and Dragons with Terri and Melissa on the latest episode of the 'Mixing Up Midlife' podcast! Join them for a dose of midlife fantasy fun as they delve into this beloved role-playing game from the cozy confines of their Empty Nest. Listen in as Terri and Melissa share their initial confusion and subsequent fascination with D&D, discussing how they believe playing this game could expand their creativity and imagination. Mentioned on the episode: Listen to Your Mom and Dad Watch Your Mom and Dad Play Dungeons and Dragons Libby Library Fourth Wing We may receive a small commission for products linked Try It or Buy It OPI nailpolish tiktok OPI infinite shine Weekend Watch Fargo Mix It Up with US Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok Youtube 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Theme 01:19 Exploring the Intrigue of Dungeons and Dragons 02:29 The Connection Between Fantasy and Creativity 03:36 Personal Experiences and Perceptions of Dungeons and Dragons 06:04 The Appeal of Role-Playing Games 06:33 The Challenge of Imagination and Storytelling 06:48 Exploring the Possibility of Playing Dungeons and Dragons 10:27 The Potential of Dungeons and Dragons in Popular Culture 13:10 Invitation to Listeners and Conclusion 14:33 Discussing Dark Comedies 15:09 Exploring Sci-Fi and Fantasy 16:05 Diving into Audiobooks 17:20 The Romance of Reading 20:00 Exploring TikTok Trends 21:01 Try It or Buy It: Nail Polish Edition 21:39 Life Updates and Future Plans 23:52 Reflecting on the Podcast Journey

Have you been searching for the perfect retirement location, but aren't quite sure where that is or how to find it? Today's guest, Margaret Vandergriff, founder of Your Place Finder is here to help! Drawing on 30+ years of prospect research, strategic planning, and consulting/coaching experience, Margaret created the Spark System to guide retirees and almost retirees from deciding to move (or not), to finding their perfect retirement location, to smoothly navigating their move and transition to life in their new location. 0:00 Where to Retire with Margaret Vandergriff 00:03 Introduction and Guest Presentation 01:01 Margaret's Personal Journey and the Birth of 'Your Place Finder' 06:43 The Spark System: A Methodical Approach to Finding the Perfect Place 18:00 Understanding the Assessment Process 18:48 Exploring Potential Locations 25:16 Finalizing the Move and Post-Move Reflection Find Margaret & Your Place Finder: Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Pinterest Mix It Up with Us Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok

Terri and Melissa are transported into the world of Romantasy on today’s episode. Terri shares her long-time love for the genre, highlighting its role in offering complete escapism and its evolution from conventional romance narratives. Terri and Melissa consider how the genre has grown thanks to social media and the popularity of BookTok and have some starter romantasy book recs . They chat about other facets of pop culture like Taylor Swift's Grammy win and the Super Bowl. 00:00 Introduction to Romantasy: A New Genre? 00:24 Romantasy Isn't New 03:38 Exploring the World of Romantasy: From Twilight to Sarah J Mass 14:54 Book Club and Reading Habits 16:52 Super Bowl and Pop Culture Weekend Watch: Quarterback on Netflix Dance Life on Amazon Prime Books: Fourth Wing Twilight A Court of Thorns and Roses House of Night Series Mix It Up with Us Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok We may earn a small commission on links we provide.

Join hosts Terri and Melissa as they candidly discuss life in their fifties and beyond, particularly focusing on the 'empty nest' stage of life. They mull over questions like 'When do we stop parenting our adult children?' and 'How to balance personal interests and a career while making space for enjoyment in retirement?' The discussion also includes their personal fun facts and an invitation to listeners to share their own. They touch upon reality TV shows like 'Love on the Spectrum' and 'Bachelor', mention a few others they have been enjoying plan a potential book club,. They end the podcast with their 'badass woman of the week' segment, and invite listeners to leave voicemails with their own fun facts about themselves. Mix It Up with Us Leave Us A Voicemail Terri on Instagram Melissa on Instagram Join the Mixing Up Midlife Discussion Facebook Group Email Us: MixingupMidlife@gmail.com Visit the Mixing Up Midlife website Maybe Find Us on TikTok 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:32 Meet the Hosts: Terry and Melissa 01:39 New Year Reflections and Resolutions 02:07 Parenting Adult Children: When Does It End? 02:26 Personal Stories: Kids, Cars, and Responsibilities 08:12 The Endless Nest: A New Perspective 11:51 Balancing Work and Personal Life in the Empty Nest 14:12 Balancing Work and Leisure 15:01 The Love for Podcasting 15:29 Exploring New Revenue Streams 16:00 The Coffee Connection 17:15 Reality TV Insights 20:40 Fun Facts About Ourselves 22:34 The Challenge of Self-Promotion 24:13 TV Show Recommendations 25:52 Badass Women of the Week 26:27 Wrapping Up and Looking Ahead