The Guilty Pleasure of Reality TV - Ep. 90

Spring is in the air, and with it comes the promise of a fresh start. Join us as we guide you through a transformative spring cleaning experience that's about more than just dusting off shelves—it's about refreshing your spirit. We're riding the wave of enthusiasm from our previous spring cleaning hit to bring you even more inventive ways to organize your life, from the trunk of your car to your cozy cotton overalls. Imagine the sense of renewal that comes with a decluttered space and a decluttered mind, and we're here to make it happen, one soothing soundtrack and aromatic spritz at a time.

We've all been there—the cluttered closet, the overflowing junk drawer, the holiday decorations that seem to multiply every year. But have you ever considered the power of a mindful clean-up? This episode takes you through the steps of turning the mundane task of cleaning into a serene ritual. We'll show you how to curate your possessions and let go of the excess in a way that's gradual and gentle on the soul. It's not just about making room in your closet; it's about making room in your life for new experiences and joys. And don't forget your car and digital spaces—these too deserve a springtime spruce-up!

As we explore the connections between clean spaces and midlife growth, we invite you to consider how this season of renewal can impact your personal journey. Transform and transcend the everyday with strategies that promote not just a clean environment but a clear mind. Join us as we embrace the vibrant energy of spring, bringing the outdoors inside and creating sanctuaries in our homes and hearts. Whether you're donning your favorite cotton overalls or simply sipping tea, let's embark on a path to clarity and growth together. Get ready to feel refreshed, inside and out, as spring cleaning takes on a whole new meaning.

Obsessions:
Tish: trunk organizer     
Car Trash Can    Car Seat Gap Filler  Cleaning Gel
Insurance/Registration Folder
Ellen: Overall with pockets

Website: www.thepositivelymidlifepodcast.com
Email: postivelymidlifepod@gmail.com

March 8th is International Womans Day 2024!

As we celebrate International Women's Day and Women's History Month under the banner of "Inspire Inclusion," we promise you'll be moved by the remarkable stories  that are defining women's empowerment today.   We're delving into the power of influential literature, like Michelle Obama's "The Light We Carry" and Chrissy King's "The Body Liberation Project," and discussing the impactful ways in which International Women's Day galvanizes unity and progress for women around the world.  And have you ever wondered how a box of Girl Scout cookies could represent a giant leap for womankind?  We discuss this on the podcast too. 

The path to the top is steep, especially for women in leadership, and the view from above reveals a landscape still lacking in diversity. This episode pulls back the curtain on the stark underrepresentation of women in the highest corporate roles, and I'll share how mentorship turned my own aspirations into achievements. We're laying out practical steps and initiatives—such as mentorship programs, workshops, and advocacy campaigns—that promise to elevate women's voices and dismantle the barriers that have kept too many from reaching their potential.

Our journey through this month's theme we discuss the inspiring women who have guested on the show who are changing the game across many different aspects of midlife. You'll hear about Elizabeth White's innovative CoLiving solutions for older women, Susan Salinger's expertise on women in healthcare, and the transformative role of women in sustainable agriculture and sports and dance with Julia Adam. These stories not only highlight the strides we've made but also serve as a call to support fundamental causes like Take Your Daughters to Work Day and We The Women by Julie Suk about the fight for the Equal Rights Amendment, underscoring our collective responsibility to champion women's equality every single day.

Obsessions
Tish: Find Girl Scout Cookies https://www.girlscouts.org/en/cookies/how-to-buy-cookies.html
Ellen: shares three great books to celebrate womens history month and IWD
The Light We Carry - Michelle Obama       
Chrissy King The Body Liberation Project         
We The Women by Julie Suk

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By listening to this podcast you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, including but not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. The  Positively Midlife Podcast is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. 

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Website: www.thepositivelymidlifepodcast.com
Email: postivelymidlifepod@gmail.com

Ever find yourself snuggled under a blanket, yearning for a good book to transport you to another world? Or facing a rainy winter weekend?  That's where Ellen and Tish beckon you to join them as they share their top five  cozy winter reads perfect for the year ahead.

The podcast takes you from the comfort of your earbuds, discussing how audiobooks have become Tish's go to and a savior on tedious long work drives, and her new  book club to a chat so cozy you can practically feel the fireplace crackling. Ellen shares what her book group is up to and why book groups from ones at the library to small ones with friends are a midlife lifeline.

Tish and Ellen unwrap "Erasure" by Alex Thompson and its film "American Fiction," dissecting Monk Ellison's riveting narrative.   Tish shares the latest book by Kristin Hannah called the women.  As the pages turn, our conversation wades through the emotional depth of a novel set amidst the Vietnam War, following the transformation of an Army nurse, and  Ellen examines the reflection of society in the mirror of Anne Patchett's "Tom Lake," a tale rooted in the pandemic era.

The discussion of the Girl in the Stilt House heats up with audiobook narrations that can make or break the experience, and we debate the merits of authentic Southern accents. We venture into the historical tapestry of the early 1900s with The Girl  in the Stilt House, drawing parallels with "Where the Crawdads Sing," and cap off the episode with Bodie Monroe's mystery "I Have Some Questions for You," which leaves us pondering the elusive nature of memory and truth.

So, if you're itching for a story that sticks or a discussion that digs deep, pull up a chair and join our circle—you won't want to miss where these winter reads take us.

Obsessions:
Tish: Portable and prefab tiny homes
Ellen: Yoga pants that go from work to workout!
 

Ellen and Tish's Cozy Winer Reads books:
The Women
Erasure
I Have Some Questions for You
Tom Lake
The Girl In the Stilt House

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By listening to this podcast you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, including but not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. The  Positively Midlife Podcast is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. 

Support the show

Website: www.thepositivelymidlifepodcast.com
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Ever found yourself spellbound by the whirlwind romances an dramatic fallouts of reality TV? This week on Positively Midlife, we peel back the curtains with our guest Laura Heinrich to reveal our own obsessions with shows like "Indian Matchmaker" and, "Married at First Sight" the latest sensation "The Golden Bachelor."

For the weekly obsessions, Tish dishes the lowdown on a kitchen gadget she just can't live without , while Ellen share her latest cozy fashion find - a hoodie that's become my her go to for work from home and California's relentless winter rain. Not to be outdone, our guest Laura brings her flair to the table with an Amazon ring set that's as stylish as it is affordable.

We've all seen it: strangers marrying at first sight, the search for love and hopeful midlife singles navigating the matchmaking maze. But what hooks us to these shows is the raw, unscripted dance of human connection—something we all crave, especially as we may bring our midlife wisdom to the shows.  Our guest Laura adds texture to our musings, agreeing that the lens of reality TV might be more scripted that we think. Yet, we can't help but marvel at the surprising success stories that emerge, sparking a lively debate on the role of arranged marriages in today's world.   Laura kicks off with insight into her favorite reality show MAFS-Married at First Sight and how decision day is quickly arriving for season 17.  Tish shared why she binges the Indian Match Maker on rainy weekends.  And Ellen shares why she both loved and hated the Golden Bachelor.

Rounding off our open conversation into the realm of televised reality matchmaking and love, we toss around the concept of a reality show featuring none other than us—podcasters in the throes of midlife!  Do you think it could work?  And we tease the promise of co-host Ellen as the new "The Golden Bachelorette," we part with a GREAT reminder to  find joy in every step of the midlife life's journey, and who knows, maybe even one reality TV episode at a time.

Obsessions:
Tish:  Chicken shredder
Ellen:  Anrabess zip sweatshirt
Laura: Qudo stacking rings

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By listening to this podcast you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, including but not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. The  Positively Midlife Podcast is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. 

Website: www.thepositivelymidlifepodcast.com
Email: postivelymidlifepod@gmail.com

Every year, as  February's chill begins to thaw for Ellen in California and Tish in South Carolina, we are reminded of the warmth found in the company of good friends—especially during Galentine's Day on February 13th which is a day to celebrate the remarkable women who make our midlife a little brighter. 

This episode wraps you in the comfort, much like Tish's latest obsession, a snug white fleece blanket ideal for cool spring nights.  And Ellen chats about her obsession - the laugh-out-loud moments provided by an adult coloring book that melts stress away, and give a shout-out to friends like Ellen, whose thoughtful acts are rays of sunshine on a cloudy day.

For Galentines Day, Ellen shares her top pick  books on friendship which include the deep friendship narratives of "Firefly Lane" and "The Villa," a book set in the 70s in an European villa, two books that perfectly encapsulate the journey of female friendships across the tapestry of time.

Come along as we share on our own Galentine's traditions (or future plans), whether it's a simple text or a festive bash, and uncover the secrets behind Laura Pauli's legendary Phenomenal Woman parties.  And for Tish, it's about celebrating the 'too much woman' in all of us, and cherishing our girl tribes in every creative way we can muster—so set your finest plates, choose a moving poem, and let's feast on the joys of camaraderie and support.

Obesessions:
Tish:  Fleece blanket
Ellen: Coloring Book Live Laugh and Fuck off.

Great reads on friendship:
Firefly Lane
The Villa 

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By listening to this podcast you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, including but not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. The  Positively Midlife Podcast is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. 

Website: www.thepositivelymidlifepodcast.com
Email: postivelymidlifepod@gmail.com

Navigating the turbulent seas of modern dating can leave many of us longing for a lighthouse to guide our way. This week's episode shines a beacon of hope as we sit down with the sensational Hope with Holly, whose journey from a conservative pastor to a TikTok icon has captured the hearts of many. Holly shares her personal transformation with humor and wisdom, shedding light on the importance of building connections and setting boundaries in a world that often rushes toward intimacy without a second glance. 

Dive headfirst into the deep end of self-love and self-awareness as Holly recounts her own experiences, from an arranged marriage to finding freedom and true self post-divorce. She imparts the wisdom of the '90 day rule' and the art of vetting potential partners through critical questions that ensure your emotional and physical safety. This episode is a trove of insights for those who are charting their course in the quest for meaningful relationships, reminding us all that sometimes the most profound love stems from a place of self-appreciation and knowing one's worth.

Finally, we wrap up with the latest innovation in the dating app world, Skip, which Holly has been instrumental in marketing. Its unique features tackle common frustrations like ghosting and transparency, aiming to make the dating process more straightforward and honest. Whether you're in the dating game or enjoying the view from the sidelines, this episode is packed with laughter, resilience, and the superpower of embracing every aspect of your journey. So, get ready to be inspired by Holly's story and maybe even discover a few superpowers of your own.

Website: www.thepositivelymidlifepodcast.com
Email: postivelymidlifepod@gmail.com

Ever wonder why that one person loudly chewing gum or one upping you in a conversation can drive you up the wall? This week, Tish and Ellen delve into the curious world of pet peeves, those minor irritations that reveal much about our personalities and possibly our past. We examine how these nuisances, from the insignificant to those rooted in childhood trauma, can sometimes unjustly occupy a significant place in our lives.

Ellen and Tish swap tales of the trivial things that under their skin, such as 'Hi' slack messages void of substance and the chronic late friend we all have . We also touch upon more poignant issues, like the sensitivity around peers griping about their aging mothers, which hits closer to home for both of us. Through laughter and genuine emotion, we navigate the maze of life's tiny trials, sharing tips for managing and confronting these frustrations directly or opting for the more peaceful route of simply stepping aside.

Wrapping it all up, we share actionable advice on how to address pet peeves with five actionable steps. From advocating for more meaningful communication to developing a game plan to dodge irksome situations, we lay out methods for overcoming these tests of patience. And as we venture together through the landscape of midlife annoyances, we encourage you to share your stories and join us and share some of your midlife pet peeves on our social channels.


Obsessions:
Tish: Flower chokers - set of 4
Ellen: QUDO stacking rings

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Want to start podcasting?  Click here to let Buzzsprout know we sent you, this gets you a $20 Amazon gift card if you sign up for a paid plan, and help support our show

By listening to this podcast you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, including but not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. The  Positively Midlife Podcast is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. 

Website: www.thepositivelymidlifepodcast.com
Email: postivelymidlifepod@gmail.com

Embarking on the adventure of manifesting our dreams, we discovered the transformative power of vision boards, especially curated for midlife women gearing up for a remarkable 2024. Picture this: a room full of enthusiastic women, each on a mission to materialize their aspirations, and there was Tish, absorbing the collective creativity at a dynamic women's group event. And Ellen, meanwhile, uncovers a vision board path with a focus on love and self-discovery via an online class with the captivating love coach, Carissa Montooth our podcast guest in episode 59.

Have you ever imagined your deepest desires coming to life right before your eyes? That's the magic we explore through vision boards as they serve not just as an artistic endeavor, but as a powerful manifestation tool.  Ellen crafted a board that manifests her pursuit of love and what's important for her in the areas of health, success and wealth. We loved how these visual prompts are not confined to the start of the year but are year-long beacons, pushing us towards small victories and life-changing habits. Our 2024 vision boards are a testament to our resolve, a mixture of personal growth, adventure, and for Tish the courage to step out of her comfort zones.

We signed off with a reminder to our listeners to harness the anticipation of what lies ahead, all while staying positively midlife. Join us on this episode as Ellen and Tish  we embrace 2024 with open arms and a their vision boards  as their compass.


Obsessions:
Tish: Chat Books
Ellen: Dust Buster

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Want to start podcasting?  Click here to let Buzzsprout know we sent you, this gets you a $20 Amazon gift card if you sign up for a paid plan, and help support our show

By listening to this podcast you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, including but not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. The  Positively Midlife Podcast is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. 

Website: www.thepositivelymidlifepodcast.com
Email: postivelymidlifepod@gmail.com

Imagine discovering a simple way to infuse each day with a little more happiness—would you try it? That's exactly what we explored with the Big Joy Project from UC Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center, and our latest episode is bursting with the joys and laughs we collected along this seven-day journey. We're spilling all about how micro acts of joy, ranging from watching breathtaking nature clips to laughing with loved ones, have transformed our daily outlook. We even delve into the surprising delights of our latest obsessions, like indoor games that light up our living rooms with laughter, and the life-altering choice to switch to colored contacts, making our midlife adventures that much more vibrant.

But the journey doesn't stop with laughter; it's also about the profound impact of kindness and gratitude. Join us as we unpack how these small, yet powerful acts have rippled through our lives, nudging us towards a more joy-filled existence. With heartfelt anecdotes of family life, the challenges of parenting, and the warmth of deep conversations, we offer up a slice of our lives while inviting you to create moments of happiness in your own. Discover practical steps to nurture joy, resilience, and a grateful heart by tuning into our conversation—a heartfelt mix of personal stories, laughter, and the wisdom of embracing each day's potential for joy.

Website: www.thepositivelymidlifepodcast.com
Email: postivelymidlifepod@gmail.com

Are you wearing your 'too muchness' like a cloak of invisibility or a suit of armor? Gina Hatzis, a beacon of boldness for women in communication and confidence, joins us on this week's podcast to examine how embracing our radiant selves can transform our lives and she shares how each woman's midlife awakening is a call to live a Brave, Bold, Unapologetic Life. Gina champions women to celebrate their Too Muchness and confidently live a regret-free life.
 
Striding boldly into midlife can feel like navigating an intricate maze, but it's also an opportunity to cement self-trust and muster Charisma, Confidence, Courage and Communication . In this open discussion, we illuminate the sectors of the 'wheel of life' where self-awareness can be a make or break and how to build a foundation of self-trust and courage to not only face change but to embrace the charisma and confidence that come with it. Whether reshaping your career path, deepening relationships, or redefining financial success, Gina shares how warmth and competence intertwine, urging you to start where self-trust is most needed in your wheel of life. She discusses  the resilience required to both enact change and weather its outcomes at midlife.

This episode culminates in a powerful introspective journey, one that challenges you to align with your core values and let them guide your communication and your 'too muchness'.  Gina shares how to peel back the layers of transformative realization, when aligning with  authentic values - courage, freedom, self-expression - will catalyze a wave of positive change in all midlife women's lives.  Ellen and Tish step up to challenge themselves to reevaluate their own values, understanding that true fulfillment, purpose, and joy spring from this congruence of values.

And as we delve into the Once Upon a Woman project led by Gina, we celebrate the wisdom of community. By claiming your 'too much woman' superpower, you enrich not just your own life, but those around you - here's to charisma, confidence, courage, and communication.  Gina shares her new journal with 100 days of prompts , her master classes and other ways you can work with her.

Gina Hatzis - www.ginahatzis.com
Follow Gina on Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/ginahatzis/
Follow Gina on Facebook:   https://www.facebook.com/Gina.TooMuchWoman/
Follow Gina on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ginatoomuchwoman

Get Gina's book - Celebrating the Too Much Woman

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Want to start podcasting?  Click here to let Buzzsprout know we sent you, this gets you a $20 Amazon gift card if you sign up for a paid plan, and help support our show

By listening to this podcast you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice to treat any medical condition in either yourself or others, including but not limited to patients that you are treating. Consult your own physician for any medical issues that you may be having. The  Positively Midlife Podcast is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. 

Website: www.thepositivelymidlifepodcast.com
Email: postivelymidlifepod@gmail.com