123. Awareness, Acceptance, Action: The Midlife Shift You’ve Been Waiting For
Feeling Stuck? Here’s How to Get Moving Again—No Matter Where You Are in Life. Do you ever find yourself saying, “It’s not that bad…”—even when you know deep down something needs to change? Whether it’s your health, your relationships, or the way you’re showing up in your own life, feeling stuck is something we all go through—especially in midlife.In this powerful and deeply honest episode, I’m joined by Yvette Salva—personal trainer, life coach, and survivor—who shares her inspiring journey from addiction and homelessness to health, recovery, and service. Together, we unpack the emotional roadblocks that keep us from making change, and the three simple (but not always easy) steps to finally get unstuck and move forward.Yvette’s story is raw, real, and ridiculously empowering—and her wisdom is exactly what you need if you’re feeling overwhelmed, discouraged, or unsure of your next step. Yvette Salva is an entrepreneur, keynote speaker, and founder of a private training studio helping women over 40 feel strong and confident. She focuses on mindset, nutrition, and fitness to show that midlife is not a crisis but a new season. Her message is simple: the best is yet to come.In this episode:Yvette’s candid journey from addiction to long-term sobriety and healingWhy the gut whisper never lies—and how to start trusting yours againThe 3 essential steps to getting unstuck: Awareness, Acceptance, and ActionHow “It’s not that bad” thinking can quietly sabotage your goalsThe power of support, structure, and accountability in midlife transformationWhy paying attention often starts with paying for commitmentWhat it really takes to build a life you love—even after hitting rock bottom Resources Mentioned:Website: https://yvettesalvafitness.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yvettesalvafitness Connect with me, Dr. Sara Poldmae:Website: https://risingwomanproject.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmaeHave a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!
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122. Acceptance in Menopause
Are you feeling like your body—and your life—aren’t quite your own anymore? Maybe the weight gain, brain fog, sleepless nights, and emotional overwhelm have left you wondering, “Who even am I right now?” If that sounds familiar, this episode is for you.In today’s deeply honest and empowering conversation, I’m joined by self-love and relationship coach Christina Ketchen to explore the concept of acceptance—not as giving up, but as a powerful path to freedom and healing during midlife transitions like menopause.Whether you’re struggling with your changing body, identity, or just trying to stay grounded through it all, this episode will help you reconnect to your power and remember: you’re not alone.Christina Ketchen is a Certified Life and Relationship Coach, HeartMath® Certified Practitioner, and graduate of the Hoffman Institute who has spent nearly a decade coaching both individuals and couples. With over 10,000 hours of experience, she helps people move beyond old patterns and get to know themselves from a grounded place of enoughness. Christina blends science, story, and heartfelt strategy to guide people toward emotional resilience, self-love, and healthier relationships. In this episode:What acceptance really means—and what it doesn’tHow to embrace the “ands” of midlife: “This is hard, and I’m moving forward”The surprising connection between nervous system regulation and emotional resilienceWhy saying your inner thoughts out loud can shift everythingChristina’s near-death experience and how it transformed her relationship with changeTwo powerful tools you can use right now: Heart-Focused Breathing and JournalingHow to reframe identity loss as an evolution into something new Resources Mentioned:· FREE RESOURCE: Christina’s Masterclass + Dreamscaping Tool → https://christinaketchen.com/masterclass/Hoffman Institute: https://www.hoffmaninstitute.orgHeartMath Tools + Coherence App: https://www.heartmath.com Connect with Christina Ketchen:Website: https://christinaketchen.com Substack: https://christinaketchen.substack.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christinaketchen/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/uncoveryourbestyou/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinaketchen/ Connect with me, Dr. Sara Poldmae:Website: https://risingwomanproject.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmaeHave a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!
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121. The Truth About Midlife, Hormones & Reclaiming Your Power
Ever feel like you’re losing yourself somewhere between hot flashes, brain fog, and trying to remember where you left your coffee (again)? You’re not alone—and this conversation is for you.In this very special episode, Sara takes the guest seat as she’s interviewed on a local Annapolis-based podcast. What unfolds is a lively, honest, and often hilarious conversation about the very real experiences of women in perimenopause and menopause. From heart palpitations to sleep struggles to relationship shifts, nothing is off the table—and you’ll walk away feeling seen, supported, and maybe even a little more empowered.This is Sara unfiltered, and it just might be the most fun episode yet. In this episode: Why midlife often starts with “I just don’t give a f*ck” (and why that’s not a bad thing)The real reason behind heart palpitations and anxiety in perimenopauseDebunking the myth that “everyone needs hormones” during menopauseWhy sleep issues are often the first red flag (and what to do about it)How brain fog affects your confidence—and what helps bring it backWhat Sara’s concierge program looks like from the insideThe emotional truth about changing your lifestyle—and why it can get messy before it gets beautifulPlus: sex drive, wine habits, journaling breakthroughs, and why orange might be your midlife power color Resources Mentioned:Kelly Bell is the founder of The Bell House Catering, a boutique catering company in Annapolis, Maryland, known for fresh, seasonal menus and warm, welcoming service. Whether she’s crafting an intimate dinner party or a lively community event, Kelly brings heart, humor, and flavor to everything she touches.Gretchen Moran is the creator of The Culinary Square, a dynamic culinary space and teaching kitchen in Annapolis focused on hands-on cooking classes, community-building events, and empowering people through food. Gretchen’s passion lies in connection—bringing people together around good food and great conversations.Connect with me, Dr. Sara Poldmae:Website: https://risingwomanproject.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmaeHave a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!
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120. Cougar Puberty, The We Do Not Care Club and Why Menopause Humor Helps Fuel the Conversation
Are you crying over dog food commercials… or impulse-buying your fourth pair of reading glasses? Welcome to the wild ride of Cougar Puberty—yes, it’s a thing, and no, you’re not the only one living it. In this short but laughter-filled episode, we’re talking about the hormonal chaos of perimenopause and menopause… and why comparing it to puberty might just be the most accurate (and hilarious) take out there.If you’ve ever felt like you’re reliving the emotional roller coaster of your teen years—minus the slumber parties and with a lot more night sweats—this episode will help you feel seen, heard, and not so alone. In this episode:What “Cougar Puberty” actually means—and why it’s more real than you thinkThe hormonal roller coaster you’re riding (and how it mirrors your teen years)How humor can lighten the heavy parts of perimenopauseWhy we love the “We Do Not Care Club”—and how to join guilt-freeThe delicate balance of not caring about the small stuff while still caring deeply for yourselfWhy finding the right practitioner can make all the differenceA surprising reason for night sweats (hint: it’s not always hormones!) Resources Mentioned:Concierge program: www.meadowhillwellness.com/renewher Coaching call link: https://calendly.com/sarapoldmae/midlife-strategy Connect with me, Dr. Sara Poldmae:Website: https://risingwomanproject.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmaeHave a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!
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119. The Power of No: How Letting Go Leads to a Life You Love
Are You Saying "Yes" When You Really Want to Say "No"? If your calendar is packed, your energy is drained, and you're constantly “should-ing” yourself through the week, you’re not alone. In this short but powerful episode, I’m talking about one of the most freeing things you can do in midlife: say no.This isn’t just about boundaries—it’s about reclaiming your joy, your time, and your health. Saying no is the first step toward letting go of what no longer serves you… and making space for what does.Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, stuck in old patterns, or just craving a little more peace, this episode is your permission slip to release the stressors and tune into what really matters. In this episode:Why midlife is the perfect time to let go of what no longer serves youHow saying "no" helps prevent burnout, overwhelm, and hormone imbalanceThe surprising connection between chronic stress and your inbox, your friendships, and your to-do listA simple journaling practice to identify what’s draining youThe real meaning of mindfulness—and how it helps you move through changeHow to start making decisions from a place of clarity instead of autopilotWhy support (and sometimes counseling) can help you reframe your life in a powerful way Connect with me, Dr. Sara Poldmae:Website: https://risingwomanproject.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drsarapoldmaeHave a question I can answer? Send me a message! I love to hear from my listeners!
About Menopause Rise and Thrive | Helping Women Navigate Midlife and Menopause
Welcome to Menopause Rise and Thrive! I’m Dr. Sara Poldmae, and this podcast is for women navigating perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause—women who are ready to embrace this stage of life with confidence and create a future that feels authentic and fulfilling.Every week, I’ll walk you through the ups and downs of midlife, sharing helpful tips, real-world advice, and a space where you can feel heard and supported. Whether you’re dealing with hot flashes, weight changes, mood swings, sleep disruptions, or brain fog—or simply trying to make sense of the emotional shifts that come with menopause—you’re not alone.Together, we’ll cut through the noise of misinformation and explore real, effective strategies for managing menopause symptoms, emotional well-being, and relationship dynamics. Menopause Rise and Thrive is about more than just symptom management—it’s about stepping into your strength, prioritizing your well-being, and finding renewed purpose in this chapter of life.More than anything, this podcast is about community—a place where women like you can connect, share experiences, and support one another. Together, we’ll challenge outdated myths about aging, celebrate our resilience, and approach midlife with clarity, strength, and empowerment.Offering a unique blend of insights from my experience as a Doctor of Chinese Medicine, Chinese herbalist, acupuncturist, yogi, functional medicine practitioner, and women’s advocate, I’m here to help you reclaim your health and rediscover your passions. Every episode is designed to provide guidance, reassurance, and practical steps so you can navigate menopause with confidence.
Listen to Menopause Rise and Thrive | Helping Women Navigate Midlife and Menopause, Change is Possible and many other podcasts from around the world with the radio.net app
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