Total Health in Midlife with Elizabeth Sherman

What if the secrets to strength and resilience are hidden in the annals of women's shared histories?

Today, I am unearthing these stories, illuminating the silent strength of our foremothers, and embracing the power of sisterhood. I dive into the societal perceptions of women through different life stages and tackle the stigma and shame linked to women’s bodies. I recognize the wisdom in seeking help and the freedom in finding our own paths.

Imagine a time when women thrived in multigenerational living, and the guidance of elder women — the crone — was cherished. I traverse through this era, understanding the impact of patriarchy and cultural shifts on women's communal living. I unveil the repercussions of transitioning from these cohesive communities to isolated nuclear households.

Along this journey, I find solace in the narratives woven in books like The Red Tent and Women Who Run With the Wolves. They serve as mirrors to our societies, reflecting both their charm and scars. By appreciating these historical shifts and rekindling the spirit of sisterhood, I aspire to reclaim the power and unity that was once ours.

Join me on this remarkable journey to rediscover our collective strength.

Chapter Summaries:

The Power of Sisterhood (0:00:05)

We explore the power of sisterhood, wisdom of elders, societal perceptions of women, collective wisdom, seeking help, and the stigma of women's bodies.

The Strength and Unity of Women (0:13:20)

We explore the strength of women, communal living, the wisdom of the crone, fear and suspicion of women, nuclear households, and books like the Red Tent and Women Who Run With the Wolves.

"Unite in sisterhood, reclaim wisdom from the past, and empower each other for an unstoppable journey ahead." - Elizabeth Sherman

Get full show notes and more information here: https://elizabethsherman.com/podcast/143

Wouldn't it feel incredible to swap self-criticism for self-compassion? Are you ready to silence your inner critic and live your life authentically?

In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Dr. Ellen Albertson, also known as the midlife whisperer. She's a force to be reckoned with, boasting a plethora of qualifications from journalist to Ph.D. psychologist, and is passionate about helping women navigate midlife with joy, energy, clarity, and confidence.

Our discussion unveils Dr., Ellen's journey, from a journalist to a self-compassion advocate. She shares her insights into how powerful self-compassion can be, with practices such as meditation leading to significant reductions in body shame and dissatisfaction.

But it's not just about body image; we discuss the crucial role of self-compassion in managing emotions, dealing with depression, and promoting overall well-being. Dr. Ellen's approach is a holistic one, incorporating the body, mind, heart, and spirit, inspiring us all to embrace ourselves fully.

In the final segment, we tap into how self-compassion can silence our inner critic and empower us to live authentically. Dr. Ellen introduces her seven-step program, designed to help us reconnect with our true selves and embrace the challenges and joys of midlife.

We also touch on the best diet for women in midlife, the power of self-care, and how to approach intermittent fasting safely. This episode is brimming with wisdom, whether you're seeking motivation to step out of your comfort zone or simply curious about living a high-vibe midlife.

We promise it's an enlightening conversation you don't want to miss.

Chapter Summaries:

Dr. Ellen Albertson (0:00:07)

Dr. Ellen Albertson helps women in midlife live a high vibe midlife with joy, energy, clarity, and confidence.

Finding Self-Compassion for Body Image (0:07:57)

Dr. Ellen Albertson shares her journey of self-compassion, reducing body shame and body dissatisfaction, and embracing the body through meditations and taking risks.

The Power of Self-Compassion and Wellbeing (0:15:08)

Dr. Ellen Albertson discusses self-compassion to regulate emotions, manage depression, take risks, and enjoy life.

Rediscovering Authenticity and Empowering Midlife Women (0:23:23)

Dr. Ellen Albertson guides us through seven steps to reconnect with our true selves and embrace midlife, addressing our inner critic, people-pleasing behavior, and developing our intuition.

Authenticity, Comfort Zone, and Prioritizing Self (0:29:31)

Dr. Ellen Albertson's midlife journey, weight focus, fear of success, healthy eating and emotion regulation are discussed.

Best Diet for Women in Midlife (0:33:14)

Midlife women can benefit from a plant-based diet, intermittent fasting, fermented foods, phytochemicals, strength training, and good sleep.

Working With the Midlife Whisperer (0:44:57)

Dr. Ellen Albertson helps midlife women through diet, coaching, retreats, self-compassion, travel, and self-care.

About Dr. Ellen Albertson:

Dr. Ellen is a psychologist, registered dietitian, board-certified health and wellness coach, podcast host, Reiki master, and self-compassion teacher. Known as The Midlife Whisperer™, she helps women have the energy, confidence, and clarity to make their next chapter their best chapter.

A bestselling, award-winning author, and inspirational speaker, Dr. Ellen is an expert on women’s well-being and sits on the medical board of The National Menopause Foundation. Dr. Ellen has appeared on Extra, the Food Network, and NBC World News and has been quoted in Psychology Today, Forbes, and Eating Well. She has written for SELF, Better Homes & Gardens, and Good Housekeeping. Her latest book is Rock Your Midlife: 7 Steps to Transform Yourself and Make Your Next Chapter Your Best Chapter!

"Embrace self-compassion as the bridge to authentic living, where inner criticism fades and the journey through midlife becomes a tapestry of empowerment and joy." - Elizabeth Sherman

Get full show notes and more information here: https://elizabethsherman.com/podcast/142

Ever thought about what is truly healthy means to you? Is it just about the number on the scale or is there more to it?

I am here, Elizabeth Sherman, to guide you through a transformative journey to health and wellness, breaking free from the traditional narrative of dieting. Instead, we aim to develop a healthier relationship with food, exercise, and ourselves.

Walk with me as I share my personal story, transitioning from a size 18-20 to a lifestyle centered on well-being. Listen as we delve into societal pressures, ageism, and how living authentically impacts our health.

What if you could redefine the norms and reclaim the narrative? This episode is about empowering women in midlife, guiding them to live robust, well-rounded lives.

Here, we challenge the status quo, and societal expectations, and redefine what it means to be a healthy woman today. We embrace personal growth over societal expectations, health over numbers on the scale, and inner peace over external validation.

Together, we uncover evidence-based knowledge, share personal stories, and offer practical tools to navigate this exciting stage of life, empowered and in control. Join me in this unique exploration of holistic health, where the focus is not just on living but thriving.

Chapter Summaries:

Embracing Holistic Health, Moving Beyond Dieting (0:00:05)

Explore health habits, aging, ageism, societal pressures, and living authentically to create a healthier relationship with food, exercise, and our bodies.

Empowering Women in Midlife (0:16:41)

Challenge the status quo, prioritize health, value inner peace, strive for personal growth, uncover evidence-based knowledge, and explore practical tools to empower midlife women.

"Shift from dictating what you should do to exploring what could work for you, embracing self-compassion, and crafting a life you love in a body you feel good in." - Elizabeth Sherman

Get full show notes and more information here: https://elizabethsherman.com/podcast/141

There was a time in my life when I viewed my wrinkles and graying hair as embarrassing signs of aging, a flawed depiction that society often perpetuates. It was a journey of self-discovery and unlearning these misconceptions that helped me realize the beauty that comes with aging and every gray hair, wrinkle, and year is a testament to our resilience, wisdom, and beauty.

Today, I'm eager to share with you all what I've learned about aging gracefully, challenging societal norms, and debunking myths about aging. Together, we'll be embracing the aging process as a natural part of our existence, rather than a dreaded inevitability.

As we navigate through this journey to redefine aging, we will delve deeper into the importance of health habits and self-care as they play a crucial role in aging gracefully. We'll explore the significance of nutritional choices, regular exercise, and quality sleep and how these can influence our aging process.

Our conversation will not just revolve around the physical aspects of aging, but also the societal and cultural implications that often cloud our perception of growing old. Let's challenge the narrative around aging, shift our perspectives, and celebrate every bit of our journey - every wrinkle, every gray hair, and every year.

Chapter Summaries:

Redefining Aging (0:00:06)

Unlearning societal norms and internalized beliefs, embracing aging, nurturing health habits, and debunking myths about aging.

Aging, Nutrition, Exercise, and Society (0:19:14)

Fueling with nutritious food, exercising, quality sleep, and understanding cultural influences on aging is key to aging gracefully.

Shifting the Narrative (0:34:59)

Craft a roadmap to age gracefully, challenge societal norms, take care of health, and make sustainable choices.

"Every gray hair, wrinkle, and year is a testament to our resilience, wisdom, and beauty." - Elizabeth Sherman

Get full show notes and more information here: https://elizabethsherman.com/podcast/140

What if you could break free from societal expectations and become the architect of your own life?

Join me, as I guide you through my personal journey, highlighting how the 'end of history illusion' was holding me back and how overcoming it revolutionized my world. By sharing powerful strategies that have worked for me and many women I've coached, I aim to help you tackle this illusion that might be sabotaging your growth.

This episode will empower you to own your dreams and evolve into the best version of yourself.

Learning to embrace failure, taking charge of your decisions, and setting clear goals can transform your life trajectory. I'll share tips on how to focus on behavior rather than outcomes, the optional nature of timelines for goals, and the important perspective that obstacles are simply part of your progress.

As we journey together, I'll invite you to dream big, intentionally design your future, and ensure you don't miss out on the next 10 years. You have the power to shape your life, health, and future, and I'm here to support you every step of the way.

Chapter Summaries:

Breaking Free From History Illusion (0:00:06)

Break free from the end of history illusion to own your dreams and become the architect of your own life.

Embracing Failure and Setting Goals (0:18:32)

Taking charge of life, announcing objectives, befriending failure, focusing on behavior, optional timelines, obstacles as progress, and embracing the journey.

Designing Your Future (0:26:40)

Dream big and shape your life, health, and future with my support.

"Break free from societal expectations, overcome the 'end of history illusion,' and design your own life. Own your dreams and evolve into your best self." - Elizabeth Sherman

Get full show notes and more information here: https://elizabethsherman.com/podcast/139

Can we truly redefine our relationship with food? That's the provocative question we're exploring with Jane Pilger, host of the ‘Binge Breakthrough’ podcast and a dedicated binge eating coach.

Drawing from deeply personal experiences, Jane shares her journey, her struggles, and ultimately her triumph, giving us all hope that we can do the same. She speaks candidly about the guilt and secrecy that shrouded her early encounters with binge eating and how understanding her nervous system played a pivotal role in her victory.

We explore the undercurrents of binge eating, seeing it not merely as a disorder, but as a symptom of disconnection from our experiences. Jane exposes how diet culture conditions us to ignore our body's signals, leading to a profound disconnection from our own selves.

We venture into the realm of perfectionism, discussing how our relentless chase for an 'ideal body' can trigger unhealthy eating habits and constant nervous system activation. Listen as Jane enlightens us on the power of internal dialogue, transforming it from a relentless critic to an ally in our journey towards healthier eating.

Join us as we navigate the intricate network of our nervous system, understanding its three states - fight/flight, freeze, and home base, and their role in binge eating. Jane shares her realization that her binges were essentially her body's desperate plea for pause, forcing her to slow down and break free from the onslaught of stress and perfectionism.

We dive into the potential of shifting our mindset, understanding that shame and judgment can exacerbate unhealthy eating habits. Jane leaves us with resources for those seeking help, emphasizing the importance of understanding our internal dialogue and how our nervous system influences our behavior. Together, let's redefine our relationship with food and reclaim the joy of eating!

About Jane:

Jane Pilger is a Master Certified Coach who specializes in empowering women struggling with food and body image issues to break through their barriers and cultivate food freedom and body trust. With a focus on helping clients who have battled with these challenges for years, Jane guides them in finding the missing link to shift from fighting against their bodies to working in harmony with them.

Whether it's addressing binge eating, building trust around certain foods, or understanding the root causes of their behaviors, Jane offers support and guidance to bring about lasting change. Alongside her coaching work, Jane finds joy in spending time with loved ones, engaging in triathlon training and racing, and embarking on new adventures.

She is driven by her desire to make a positive impact on those around her and to live a life rooted in love, trust, adventure, and personal growth.

Chapter Summaries:

Understanding Binge Eating (0:00:11)

Jane shares the story of her first binge, the hallmarks of a binge, understanding her nervous system, and creating safety to break the cycle.

Understanding the Reasons Behind Binge Eating (0:11:23)

Jane shares her experience of binges, discussing numbing behavior, a pattern of binges, and what set off her first binge.

Understanding Binge Eating and Perfectionism (0:24:51)

Diet culture disconnects us from our bodies, perfectionism and appearance focus perpetuate this, and listening to our bodies is a skill available to all.

Navigating Perfectionism and Internal Dialogue (0:33:42)

Jane Pilger explores our internal dialogue, nervous system, and safety to understand unhealthy eating habits.

Nervous System and Binge Eating (0:39:39)

Nature's fight/flight, freeze, and home base states are discussed, along with perfectionism, internal dialogue, and regulating stress responses.

Shifting Mindsets and Finding Solutions (0:50:27)

Jane Pilger discusses shifting mindset, understanding shame and judgment, and the three states of the nervous system to improve eating habits.

"Reclaiming our joy of eating requires understanding, addressing emotions, and changing our internal dialogue to break free from binge eating." - Elizabeth Sherman

Get full show notes and more information here: https://elizabethsherman.com/podcast/138

Have you ever wondered why dieting never works for you?

Brace yourself for some groundbreaking revelations about the diet industry! Uncover the truth about the one-size-fits-all approach, primarily designed based on the physiology of young men, and why it misses the mark for women over 40. We're shedding light on societal pressures and the unspoken narratives that influence our self-worth and body image.

Join me, Elizabeth Sherman, as I navigate the complex journey of midlife, highlighting the significance of shifting hormones and the need for a change model that goes beyond surface-level diet advice.

Get ready for a transformative conversation that challenges the misconceptions of societal beauty standards and redefines our relationship with our bodies. Tune in as I explore a change model that dives into reshaping our beliefs, and identities, and reevaluating our perception of the world.

We aren’t just talking about modifying habits; we're shifting mindsets. So, let's rally against the pressure to prioritize appearance over health, break free from the stifling diet rules, and empower each other to embrace our unique bodies and their distinct needs.

Grab your earphones, and your favorite beverage, and let's embark on this journey of self-discovery together.

Chapter Summaries:

Introduction (00:00 - 00:00:52)

Introduces the podcast episode, discussing the challenge of dieting efforts in midlife for women. Teases the unveiling of truths about the diet industry that affect women over 40.

Challenges of Dieting Culture (00:00:52 - 00:04:18)

I highlight the societal pressures on women's appearance and how they often overshadow genuine health concerns. Questions the backward prioritization of appearance over well-being.

Hormones and Dieting (00:04:18 - 00:06:45)

The discussion shifts to the relevance of diets designed for young men and the neglect of hormonal changes that occur in women's bodies after 40. Stresses the need for personalized approaches due to shifting hormones.

Shifting Narratives and Empowerment (00:06:45 - 00:10:22)

Emphasizes the importance of understanding the flaws within dieting systems and the impact on women's self-worth. Introduces a change model that goes beyond surface actions and encourages the transformation of beliefs and mindsets.

Seizing Opportunities for Change (00:10:22 - End)

Introduces a free live class focused on midlife challenges and practical solutions. I encourage listeners to prioritize themselves, attend the course, and embrace a healthier, sustainable approach to self-care and well-being.

WHAT YOU’LL LEARN:

• Explores why dieting efforts tend to fail for women in midlife and uncovers truths about the diet industry's impact on women over 40.

• Understand the societal pressures that prioritize appearance over genuine health, leading to frustration and exhaustion.

• The episode highlights the mismatch between common diets designed for young men and the hormonal changes that affect women's bodies after 40.

• Learn about a change model that goes beyond surface actions, focusing on transforming beliefs and mindsets for lasting change.

• Introduces a free live class tailored to midlife challenges, offering insights, tools, and strategies to break free from harmful diet cycles and foster a healthier self-care approach.

RESOURCES

• Done with Dieting Class: A Practical Approach to Your Health and Midlife

Feel like investing in your health is a luxury? Let's hit the pause button and explore the hidden costs of not getting your health in order and the rewards of investing in your well-being.

Together, we'll unpack the societal pressures that women face regarding money and the pitfalls of quick fixes. More importantly, we'll shed light on the power of sustainable habits and learning to trust our bodies signals.

In the next part of our journey, the transformative power of coaching for health and well-being unfolds. I'll be sharing my coaching philosophy and the inspiring stories of Susan, Teresa, and Cheryl.

These women bravely embarked on the path of change, learning to trust themselves and their bodies again. Their stories provide valuable insight into how investing in personal health and well-being can create a ripple effect of positivity in our lives.

So, are you ready to join us on this journey of self-discovery and well-being? Let's prioritize our health together and live our best lives.

Chapter Summaries:

Hiring a Life and Health Coach (0:00:05)

Investing in health through life and health coaching offers financial and personal benefits while neglecting health has hidden costs.

Coaching for Health and Well-Being Transformation (0:08:37)

Investing in health and wellness yields meaningful changes pays for itself, and is doable.

"Prioritize your health and wellness, invest in yourself, and create a positive ripple effect in your life." - Elizabeth Sherman

Get full show notes and more information here: https://elizabethsherman.com/podcast/137

Has anyone ever asked you, "Who do you really want to be?" Many of us, especially during midlife, tend to live in service of others, often neglecting our own hopes, dreams, and desires.

Join me, as I explore the awakening, that electrifying moment when you realize that you've been sidelining your own needs, and it's time to reclaim control of your life. This episode is a transformative process intended for anyone seeking self-discovery, whether you're single, married, a mom, or have chosen to remain child-free.

Do you remember when you last allowed yourself the freedom to dream? To nurture your passions? To align your life with your deepest desires?

By embracing our truths, embracing our desires, we can live in harmony with our dreams, creating the fulfilling, authentic lives we all deserve, no matter where we find ourselves on life's winding road.

Chapter Summaries:

The Journey of Self-Discovery in Midlife (0:00:05)

Embark on a journey of self-discovery, exploring the awakening, expressway analogy, and living for yourself.

The Journey of Self-Discovery and Transformation (0:10:12)

Jenna's story of self-discovery, overcoming fears and doubts, and living in alignment with truths, desires, and dreams are discussed.

Reclaim control of your life, embrace your desires, and navigate the twists and turns of self-discovery on the expressway to authenticity." - Elizabeth Sherman

Get full show notes and more information here: https://elizabethsherman.com/podcast/136

Are you ready to thrive in your better years? 

 Join my enlightening conversation with Dr. Jannine Krause, a Naturopathic Doctor, Acupuncturist, and host of the Health Fix podcast, as we delve into her mission to help women over 35 flourish. We examine the differences between naturopathic doctors and general practitioners, and how naturopaths focus on root cause and counseling, as opposed to just treating symptoms. Additionally, we discuss the role insurance companies may play in perpetuating a more symptom-based approach.

 Discover the impact of plastics, hormones, and health on your well-being. We discuss the three main estrogens in the body, the sneaky additives used by the plastics industry, and the importance of testing for bisphenol levels. Learn about the dangers of heating up plastics in the microwave and drinking bottled water, as well as helpful tips for assisting your liver to process toxins. Dr. Jannine also recommends nutraceuticals like milk thistle, diindolylmethane, and calcium deglutinate to support hormone metabolism.

 Lastly, let's tackle managing cortisol and nervous system responses. We explore the effects of stress on the body, its link to trauma, and how cortisol influences blood sugar and digestion. Janine shares insights on supplements and herbs such as Ashwagandha and Ganoderma, and how to reset your stress levels with breath work. Most importantly, we emphasize the significance of how we think about our problems in managing stress and cortisol levels. 

 Don't miss this episode packed with valuable information to help you take control of your health and improve your well-being.

Chapter Summaries:

Naturopathic Medicine and Root Cause Approach (0:00:06) 

Dr. Jannine and I discussed ageism, the U-curve of happiness, naturopaths, and insurance companies' symptom-based approach.

Plastics, Hormones, and Health (0:11:42) 

Discussing estrogens, plastics additives, bisphenol levels, and liver detox tips.

Managing Cortisol and Nervous System Responses (0:22:33) 

Stress, trauma, cortisol, ashwagandha, Ganoderma, breath work, and thought management are discussed to reset stress levels.

 Understanding Hormones and Cortisol (0:32:14) 

Cortisol, progesterone, and testosterone are discussed, including how cortisol can steal progesterone, leading to low progesterone levels and difficulty sleeping, anxiety, and heavy, irregular periods.

Hormone Balancing and Cortisol Management (0:37:28) 

Nature's five hormones, soy's impact on estrogen, cortisol's role, stress' effects, and taking control of health are discussed.

Remote Bioidentical Hormone Therapy Guidance (0:46:20) 

Dr. Jannine offers help with bioidentical hormone replacement therapy, hormone testing, and nature's remedies for hormones.

About Jannine Krause:

Dr. Jannine Krause is a Naturopathic Doctor, Acupuncturist, and host of the Health Fix Podcast. She is passionate about empowering women over 35 to thrive in their better years. With her expertise in holistic health, acupuncture, and personalized care, Dr. Krause provides valuable insights and support to her patients and podcast audience, inspiring them to embrace vitality and well-being throughout their journey.

"Empowering women over 35 to thrive in their better years." - Elizabeth Sherman

Get full show notes and more information here: https://elizabethsherman.com/podcast/135