Episode 4: Confronting the Void—Overcoming Emptiness, Perfectionism, and Self-Doubt in Midlife Life transitions can leave us feeling lost, uncertain, and disconnected—from ourselves and the world around us. In this episode, we explore what happens when we stop running from these emotions and face them head-on. Hosts Susan Poulter and Laura Weyl dive deep into the challenges of midlife transformation, including the unsettling void that can emerge when old identities no longer fit, but the new version of ourselves has yet to take shape. Together, they unpack: ✅ The emotional weight of emptiness, perfectionism, guilt, shame, and impostor syndrome ✅ How perfectionism acts as a shield , keeping us stuck in unrealistic expectations ✅ Why embracing vulnerability and self-compassion is key to growth ✅ The power of connection and community in navigating change ✅ How a gratitude practice can reframe negative thought patterns and build resilience If you’ve ever felt unmoored during a life transition, this episode is for you. It’s time to embrace discomfort, rediscover your purpose, and find strength in both solitude and connection. 🔗 Learn more and access Laura’s 30-day guided gratitude program at www.laura-weyl.com #MidlifeTransitions #EmotionalResilience #Perfectionism #SelfCompassion #GratitudePractice Editing: Mazed @ www.upwork.com/freelancers/mazed or email: pronoyclammr@gmail.com. Music: A Special thanks to Tudor Arvinte for our podcast music. You can find him at: www.youtube.com/channel/UCJCSbToEWd0WCbHA-QYmW2w?sub_confirmation= 1 or Instagram @twodoorluca Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not licensed mental health professionals, and the content of this podcast is not intended to replace care from a qualified mental health provider. If you are experiencing distress facing challenges in your mental health or require professional support, we strongly encourage you to seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in crisis or need immediate support, you can contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 or texting 988 . Trained crisis counselors are available 24/7 to offer free and confidential support. This podcast is designed to inspire and support women navigating midlife transitions, but your journey is unique, and professional guidance can make a significant difference....…

Have you ever found yourself lying awake at night wondering, Is this all there is? You’re not alone. Midlife can be a season of transition filled with uncertainty, restlessness, and even a deep emotional void. In this episode, Laura and Susan dive into the experience of losing a long-held identity—whether as a parent, a partner, or a professional—and the emotional weight that comes with it. We explore how perfectionism, people-pleasing, and external validation can keep us trapped in cycles of exhaustion and disconnection. Drawing from insights in Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown, we unpack the hidden pressures that make it so hard for women to put themselves first. More importantly, we discuss how to break free—how to challenge self-doubt, overcome guilt, and start saying yes to what truly serves you. This is your invitation to step into a new chapter with clarity, confidence, and a renewed sense of self. Join the conversation in our Facebook community (link in show notes) and download our free seasonal e-book to reflect on today’s episode. 🎧 Listen now and start reclaiming the life that’s waiting for you. Editing: Mazed @ www.upwork.com/freelancers/mazed or email: pronoyclammr@gmail.com. Music: A Special thanks to Tudor Arvinte for our podcast music. You can find him at: www.youtube.com/channel/UCJCSbToEWd0WCbHA-QYmW2w?sub_confirmation= 1 or Instagram @twodoorluca Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not licensed mental health professionals, and the content of this podcast is not intended to replace care from a qualified mental health provider. If you are experiencing distress facing challenges in your mental health or require professional support, we strongly encourage you to seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in crisis or need immediate support, you can contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 or texting 988 . Trained crisis counselors are available 24/7 to offer free and confidential support. This podcast is designed to inspire and support women navigating midlife transitions, but your journey is unique, and professional guidance can make a significant difference....…

Episode #2 - From Surviving to Thriving: A Foundation for Self-Compassion In this episode of Conversations Beyond Borders , we explore the power of small, intentional habits in helping midlife women reconnect with themselves and cultivate self-compassion. Brené Brown calls these habits "small but mighty" acts of self-kindness—simple practices that shift our mindset and bring us back to the present moment. Susan shares a deeply personal story about how a daily morning walk helped her navigate a difficult transition, and Laura introduces a grounding technique—the 5-4-3-2-1 method—that transformed an everyday task into a mindful reset. Together, we unpack how small moments of self-care, from gratitude journaling to reframing negative self-talk, can build resilience and emotional strength. Join us as we discuss the importance of naming our emotions, embracing imperfection, and taking intentional steps toward self-compassion. And we’d love to hear from you—what’s one small practice you can cultivate this week? Share with us in our private Facebook community! 🎧 Tune in, reflect, and take that first step toward thriving. #MidlifeTransitions #SelfCompassion #EmotionalResilience #Gratitude #Mindfulness Editing: Mazed @ www.upwork.com/freelancers/mazed or email: pronoyclammr@gmail.com. Music: A Special thanks to Tudor Arvinte for our podcast music. You can find him at: www.youtube.com/channel/UCJCSbToEWd0WCbHA-QYmW2w?sub_confirmation= 1 or Instagram @twodoorluca Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not licensed mental health professionals, and the content of this podcast is not intended to replace care from a qualified mental health provider. If you are experiencing distress facing challenges in your mental health or require professional support, we strongly encourage you to seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in crisis or need immediate support, you can contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 or texting 988 . Trained crisis counselors are available 24/7 to offer free and confidential support. This podcast is designed to inspire and support women navigating midlife transitions, but your journey is unique, and professional guidance can make a significant difference....…

Welcome to the inaugural episode of Conversations Beyond Borders ! In this highly anticipated launch, Laura and Susan introduce Season 1, The Midlife Evolution , a 10-episode journey exploring the complexities and transformations of midlife. In Episode 1, “Lost and Found: Navigating Midlife’s Emotional Crossroads,” the hosts dive deep into the emotional landscape of midlife, a time often marked by feelings of loss, disconnection, and uncertainty. Laura and Susan share personal stories of navigating these emotional crossroads—Laura recounting her experiences as her children left home and Susan opening up about the challenges of her son leaving at just 15. Together, they validate the struggles many women face during this transition, from grappling with grief and loneliness to questioning their purpose and identity. This episode unpacks the “weight of disconnection” that can arise when our roles shift and explores the ripple effects it has on our relationships, values, and sense of self. The hosts discuss how emotions like resentment, anxiety, and overwhelm can be signals guiding us back to alignment with our true selves. Listeners will gain insights into: Recognizing and naming complex emotions. Understanding the importance of emotional language and awareness. Viewing disconnection as a catalyst for growth and renewal. With relatable stories, actionable advice, and meaningful metaphors, this episode sets the tone for a season filled with empathy, vulnerability, and empowerment. Whether you’re feeling stuck, invisible, or weighed down by emotional baggage, Laura and Susan remind you: that you’re not alone. Midlife is not the end of your story—it’s the beginning of a new chapter. Visit conversationsbeyondborders.com to download your free workbook and join the conversation in our private Facebook group. Let’s navigate this transformative season together! Editing: Mazed @ www.upwork.com/freelancers/mazed or email: pronoyclammr@gmail.com. Music: A Special thanks to Tudor Arvinte for our podcast music. You can find him at: www.youtube.com/channel/UCJCSbToEWd0WCbHA-QYmW2w?sub_confirmation= 1 or Instagram @twodoorluca Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not licensed mental health professionals, and the content of this podcast is not intended to replace care from a qualified mental health provider. If you are experiencing distress facing challenges in your mental health or require professional support, we strongly encourage you to seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in crisis or need immediate support, you can contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 or texting 988 . Trained crisis counselors are available 24/7 to offer free and confidential support. This podcast is designed to inspire and support women navigating midlife transitions, but your journey is unique, and professional guidance can make a significant difference....…

Welcome to Conversations Beyond Borders , a podcast where two midlife women dive deep into the unique challenges and beautiful transformations that come with navigating this season of life. From empty nesting to rediscovering yourself, our candid conversations offer empowerment, insight, and inspiration for women who are embracing their second act. We explore how to build resilience, embrace change, and find joy in the midst of life’s transitions. Whether you’re in the thick of it or just starting, join us as we explore the exciting possibilities beyond the borders of midlife. Tune in to Conversations Beyond Borders — because the best is yet to come. Editing: Mazed @ www.upwork.com/freelancers/mazed or email: pronoyclammr@gmail.com. Music: A Special thanks to Tudor Arvinte for our podcast music. You can find him at: www.youtube.com/channel/UCJCSbToEWd0WCbHA-QYmW2w?sub_confirmation= 1 or Instagram @twodoorluca Disclaimer: The information shared on this podcast is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered professional mental health advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We are not licensed mental health professionals, and the content of this podcast is not intended to replace care from a qualified mental health provider. If you are experiencing distress facing challenges in your mental health or require professional support, we strongly encourage you to seek help from a licensed mental health professional. If you are in crisis or need immediate support, you can contact the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988 or texting 988 . Trained crisis counselors are available 24/7 to offer free and confidential support. This podcast is designed to inspire and support women navigating midlife transitions, but your journey is unique, and professional guidance can make a significant difference....…