In Part II of my conversation with Bev Mitelman, Certified Attachment Practitioner and founder of Securely Loved, we explore what happens when independence becomes a shield—and how to soften the walls that keep love just out of reach. Bev and I dive into how early emotional neglect can create avoidant patterns that echo through adulthood, how midlife brings both challenge and awakening, and why true connection begins with understanding yourself first. In this episode, we talk about: • How early emotional neglect shapes dismissive and fearful-avoidant attachment patterns • Why hyper-independence often masks unmet needs for safety and love • The midlife awakening that invites authenticity, courage, and self-discovery • The role of emotional regulation and body awareness in creating secure connection • How radical honesty transforms relationships and builds trust from the inside out If you recognize yourself in these patterns, visit securelyloved.com to take Bev’s free attachment quiz, and visit her on YouTube to find content and upcoming workshops and events.

In this episode of Getting to the Heart, I sit down with Bev Mitelman, Certified Attachment Practitioner and founder of Securely Loved. From the moment Bev and I connected across the miles — she in Toronto, me in Seattle — I knew we were kindred spirits. Our conversation was both eye-opening and deeply affirming of how our earliest experiences shape the way we love, connect, and cope throughout life. Here are some of the highlights from Part I: • Attachment is our blueprint for connection — the way we bonded in childhood continues to show up in love, work, family, and beyond. • Secure Attachment creates balance and safety, while Anxious Attachment often fuels codependency, over-giving, and fear of abandonment. • These patterns aren’t permanent — awareness and consistent practice can shift even long-held ways of relating. • Midlife brings a unique clarity, especially during hormonal shifts that often strip away people-pleasing and call us back to authenticity. • Healing “unworthy wounds” takes daily intention — small, steady steps that reshape how we see ourselves and how we love This conversation is Part I of our two-part series. We covered secure and anxious attachment styles here, and next time Bev and I will continue the journey by diving into dismissive avoidant and fearful avoidant patterns — two styles that are often misunderstood and rarely discussed with the depth they deserve. If you recognized yourself in what we explored today, I invite you to pause and reflect: how might these patterns be shaping your relationships right now? Visit Bev’s website securelyloved.com to take her free attachment quiz, and be sure to join us for Part II, where we’ll go even deeper into reimagining love and connection in midlife and beyond.

In this episode of Getting to the Heart, I sit down with Kelly Fennelly—founder of the Little Black Dress Party (LBDP)—to talk about resilience, reinvention, and the extraordinary ways one woman’s courage can ripple out to change lives. Kelly’s own devastating divorce brought her face-to-face with the financial and legal barriers that keep so many women stuck in unsafe or unhealthy marriages. Instead of letting that experience define her, she transformed her pain into purpose. That decision gave rise to The Little Black Dress Party—a high-energy charity that blends fashion, fun, and philanthropy to raise funds for women in crisis. Through our conversation, three truths stood out: Purpose can be born from pain. Kelly’s story reminds us that even the hardest chapters can open the door to meaningful new beginnings. Community is medicine. The Little Black Dress Party is more than an evening out—it’s a gathering that creates joy, connection, and real support for women in need. Empowerment is contagious. As Kelly has lifted others, she’s been transformed herself—and her vision continues to inspire more women to reclaim their lives. The Benevolent Fund born from these events now provides legal aid for women who might otherwise have no access to justice or safety. What started as Kelly’s personal mission has become a movement, one that continues to grow and expand across communities. If today’s conversation touched you, I invite you to learn more and join us at the upcoming event on October 25th in Kirkland, WA. You can register or sponsor at thelittleblackdressparty.org .

Reinvention isn’t just about making a change—it’s about becoming the boldest, clearest version of yourself. My conversation with Lindsey McMillion Stemann—“LinkedIn Lindsey” to thousands—reminded me that the way we show up in the world is deeply connected to the way we see ourselves. Lindsey has transformed thousands of lives and careers through her Profile Transformer™, but what struck me most was how much her work mirrors the inner work I do with my own clients. It’s not about the perfect headline or curated feed—it’s about the courage to stand in your truth and be fully seen. I walked away from this conversation reminded that… ✨ Your presence tells your story – long before you say a word. 🤝 Purposeful connection changes everything – not just business, but who you become. ⏸ Pauses reveal truth – a sabbatical can redefine what matters most. 💡 Visibility starts in the mind – shift your thinking and the fear fades. 🌊 Alignment creates ripples – when your outer brand matches your inner truth, opportunities follow. If you’ve been waiting for “the right time” to step into a bigger version of yourself, this is where the conversation begins.

One of the things I love most about this podcast is meeting people who bring so much heart into their work—and my guest this week, Chanelle Carlin, is the perfect example. Chanelle is a wedding celebrant who has officiated more than 200 ceremonies, but what sets her apart is how deeply she personalizes each one. She doesn’t just show up to say a few words; she takes the time to truly know her couples, weaving their stories, values, and dreams into a ceremony that feels like them. In our conversation, Chanelle shared how her own mother’s passing shaped her path into this work, reminding her of the importance of meaningful rituals when we celebrate (and grieve) life’s milestones. She also spoke about her philosophy as a Celebrant for Life™—staying connected to couples long after the wedding day, walking with them through their first year of marriage and beyond. What struck me most is Chanelle’s belief that love isn’t just about one moment in time. It’s about the small celebrations, the shared gratitude, and the everyday ways we choose each other. She told beautiful stories of late-in-life marriages, unique ceremonies that honored children and family, and the practices she uses to help couples stay grounded and present in such an overwhelming, joy-filled day. For anyone who has ever wondered if it’s “too late” for love, Chanelle’s message is clear: love can arrive at any age, in unexpected ways, and it deserves to be celebrated. If you’re dreaming of a wedding or elopement that truly reflects who you are—or you just need a reminder that love is always possible—you’ll want to hear this conversation. 🎧

Let’s be honest—when was the last time you really talked about sex? Not just the mechanics, but the health benefits, the stress relief, and the way desire shifts in long-term love? That’s exactly what I explored with Dr. Diane Mueller, My Libido Doc. With dual doctorates and a deeply personal journey, Diane is on a mission to change how women experience intimacy. She knows first-hand how shame, stress, and silence can bury our pleasure—and how reclaiming it can bring not just better sex, but better health. In our conversation, Diane and I uncovered: 💫 Why a thriving sex life is vital to long-term health 💫 How shame and old beliefs quietly kill desire 💫 What it means to embrace your unique “libido code” 💫 How to keep intimacy alive in midlife, marriage, or after divorce This is about more than sex—it’s about reconnecting to yourself, to pleasure, and to the possibility of joy at every stage of life.

Ending a marriage after a couple of years is hard enough. But walking away after decades — 20, 30, even 40 years of shared history — is a whole different kind of heartbreak. And yet, more women in their 50s, 60s, and 70s are doing exactly that. This isn’t about sudden explosions; it’s about years of unmet needs, quiet resentment, and love quietly replaced by polite cohabitation. In this episode, I sit down with Jackie Pilossoph, founder of Divorced Girl Smiling, to talk honestly about what’s driving this wave of late-life divorces and what it really looks like to start over. We explore the identity shifts that happen when the “we” you’ve been for decades becomes just “me,” the emotional and financial shockwaves that follow, and why taking control of your money early can change everything. Jackie shares stories of women who’ve reconnected with long-buried passions, proving it’s never too late to create a life you love. And because we both know divorce isn’t all doom and gloom, we talk about the role of humor as a healing force, and how even in the middle of an emotional earthquake, moments of laughter can help you breathe again. This conversation is real, it’s raw, and it’s threaded with hope — for anyone thinking about divorce, living through it, or helping a friend find her way. In this conversation, you’ll hear: • Why so many women are leaving long marriages now — and why it’s not as sudden as it seems. • How to navigate the loss of the life you thought you had while returning to the woman you were always meant to be. • Ways to step into financial clarity, even if it scares you. • The importance of pursuing passions at any age. • How laughter can soften the sharpest edges of the hardest days. If you or someone you love is navigating life after a long marriage, this episode will give you the insight, encouragement, and spark you need to see what’s possible on the other side.

Let’s be honest—when was the last time someone talked openly about menopause at work without it being whispered or wrapped in shame? In this episode, I sit down with three brilliant women who are changing that narrative in bold, beautiful ways. April Haberman and Kim Hart, the powerhouse duo behind MiDOViA, are on a mission to bring menopause into the conversation, especially in the workplace. Their organization is the first U.S.-based accreditation for menopause-friendly employers. Translation? They’re building a future where women aren’t just expected to power through hot flashes and brain fog—they’re actually supported. We’re also joined by the ever-insightful Mallory Hall, a wealth advisor with Alterra Advisors, who gets that menopause isn't just a health issue—it has deep financial implications, too. Think: retirement timing, long-term planning, and the cost of staying silent. Together, we unpack: Why menopause in the workplace is the mental health conversation of this decade How unspoken symptoms lead to burnout, resignation, and a $1.8 billion economic impact What real support looks like (hint: it goes way beyond offering a fan) The invisible toll of brain fog, fatigue, and emotional shifts—and how we shift the culture from "cope" to "care" Why preparing a support team before menopause hits is crucial How identity, relationships, and financial security are all deeply intertwined with this transition This episode is for any woman who’s ever felt unseen in midlife—and for every HR leader who wants to do better by the women on their teams. Grab your tea, your journal, and maybe a fan (we still need those), and tune in.

What does it take to lead a city into celebration? To pull off events that make history—and still be home in time for dinner with your husband and twin boys? In this episode, I sit down with the incomparable Beth Knox, President and CEO of the Seattle Sports Commission, whose career reads like a love letter to community, celebration, and service. From producing Seattle’s Super Bowl Victory Parade to planning the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup events, Beth has spent 35+ years shaping the city’s most iconic moments—not for the cameras, but for connection. But this isn’t just a highlight reel of achievements. We talk about the why behind Beth’s work, the quieter moments that moved her most, and the importance of creating space for joy and belonging in a world that often feels disconnected. She shares the personal truths that guide her, how she maintains her center amidst public pressure, and how she navigates her own season of life with intention and heart. This conversation isn’t just about sports. It’s about leadership, legacy, and choosing to show up—even when the path ahead isn’t fully visible. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s too late to start over or whether your life still holds something bigger—you’ll want to listen in. Listen, share, and let it remind you: You have something extraordinary to offer this world. Available wherever you get your podcasts. Follow me for more conversations that get to the heart. Share with a friend who needs a little light today. Until next time, I’m sending my love and light.

What if the divorce process could be less about the fight and more about what comes next? In this heart-centered episode, I sit down with Christopher Anderson, co-founder of New Leaf Family—a family law firm rewriting the playbook on how we move through divorce. Christopher doesn’t just bring legal expertise to the table—he brings lived experience, vision, and a grounded belief that healing begins when we stop looking backward and start designing the life ahead. We dive into the philosophy behind his firm’s Polaris meetings (where strategy takes a backseat to soul-searching), and how his team helps clients build a post-divorce roadmap with intention and clarity. We also talk about how legal professionals and coaches—when aligned—can support clients in creating lives that feel whole again, not just legally resolved. If you or someone you love is standing at a crossroads, this conversation is for you. We get into discernment, identity shifts, redefining success after separation, and the one thing most people misunderstand about what’s actually helpful to say to someone going through a divorce. Because sometimes, the most powerful thing you can offer someone in pain… is a glimpse of their future. Listen in, then share it with a friend who might need it. And if you’re ready to stop spinning in the pain and start shaping your next chapter, I invite you to schedule a complimentary consultation with me.

🎙️ New Episode: Dating After 50 with Andrea McGinty – A Second Act You’ll Love After a little summer break (sunshine > screens, let’s be honest), I’m back—and kicking things off with the legendary Andrea McGinty. Andrea’s the powerhouse behind It’s Just Lunch and now 33000Dates.com, where she helps smart, intentional singles—especially over 50—navigate online dating with strategy, humor, and heart. From being left at the altar to building a global dating brand, Andrea knows what it means to turn life's plot twists into purpose. In this episode, we talk about the new rules of dating, the beauty of second acts, and why love later in life might just be the best kind. We also share a few personal stories—because let’s be honest, this journey is rarely linear, but always worth it. ✨ Learn more at 33000Dates.com and grab Andrea’s book Second Acts. And if something in this conversation nudges you to start your own second act—let’s talk. Schedule a complimentary consultation with me using the link in the show notes. You’re not too late. You’re right on time.

In this powerful solo episode of Getting to the Heart, Michèle Heffron invites you into an honest, soul-level conversation about what it really takes to break free from the weight of stuckness—especially for women in midlife who have spent decades showing up for everyone else. Back from a trip to Italy, Michèle shares how quickly the feeling of being stuck returned the moment she got off the plane—a reminder that no matter how far we travel, the real journey is inward. Drawing from her own story of leaving an emotionally controlling marriage with no financial safety net, rebuilding a career from scratch, and stepping into the unknown of entrepreneurship and self-worth, Michèle speaks directly to the woman who’s wondering, “Is this all there is?” and “What if I want more?” She explores: What it looks like to begin again—even when it feels impossible How fear, obligation, and guilt (FOG) keep women trapped in relationships, roles, and routines The truth about perfectionism and control—and how they’re stealing your joy Why now, in a world that feels chaotic and uncertain, is exactly the time to invest in yourself The profound shifts that happen when you say yes to the woman you’re becoming Michèle reminds us that choosing yourself isn’t selfish—it’s sacred. And that reinvention doesn’t begin with doing—it begins with remembering who you are. Whether you’re quietly unraveling inside a seemingly “fine” life, or standing at the edge of change, this episode is a call to stop waiting for permission and start listening to the part of you that already knows: This is your time. Mentioned in this episode: Calling in “The One” Coaching with Michèle Susan Forward’s Emotional Blackmail and the concept of FOG How to take that first step—even if you’re not sure what it is ✨ Visit micheleheffron.com to learn more, subscribe to the newsletter, or book your discovery call. 💛 If this episode speaks to you, please share it with a friend, leave a review, or post it on social. Let’s create the ripple effect together.

Divorce isn't just the end of a relationship — it’s often the beginning of some of the most complicated financial decisions you’ll ever face. In this week's Getting to the Heart episode, I’m joined by Jeff Landers, Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, Certified Divorce Lending Professional, and founder of Divorce House Sense®. Together, we get to the heart of one of the most emotional — and critical — aspects of divorce: deciding what happens to the marital home. Jeff shares the insights he's gained from more than 15 years of working exclusively with divorcing women across the country. We talk about why early negotiation is crucial, the hidden pitfalls of assuming you can simply "keep the house," and why even a fair divorce settlement can unintentionally sabotage your ability to refinance a mortgage. We also explore financial literacy, asset management post-divorce, and the importance of making smart, informed decisions during one of the most emotional transitions in life. Jeff’s practical strategies, combined with his compassionate approach, offer real hope — and a solid roadmap — for anyone navigating the financial realities of divorce. If you're contemplating divorce, already in the process, or simply want to feel more empowered about your financial future, this conversation is an essential listen.

What if your most extraordinary chapter begins right now? In this powerful episode of Getting to the Heart, I sit down with the luminous Lori Pappas — a woman whose journey from trauma to triumph, from corporate America to the heart of Africa, is nothing short of breathtaking. After walking away from an unfulfilling marriage in her 50s, Lori didn’t just reinvent her life — she redefined what it means to truly live. Lori shares how founding a humanitarian nonprofit in Ethiopia helped her unearth a deeper truth about success, joy, and purpose. Now in her 70s, she’s the author of The Magic of Yes: Embrace the Wise Woman Within, a heartfelt, common-sense guide for women ready to live life fully and unapologetically. Together, we explore her transformative D.R.E.A.M. model for personal fulfillment, the gift of self-forgiveness, and the courage it takes to believe in love again — even when it arrives in your 60s while living halfway across the world. This episode is a love letter to the women who wonder if it’s too late to begin again. It’s not. And Lori’s story is proof.

In this powerful and timely episode of Getting to the Heart, Michèle Heffron welcomes Ellen Barron Feldman, an attorney and seasoned divorce and family mediator, for a candid conversation about navigating divorce with compassion, clarity, and control. Ellen shares her unique journey from commercial litigation to co-mediating with mental health expert Brian James, a partnership that bridges legal structure with emotional understanding. Together, they create a safe, collaborative space for couples to move through divorce thoughtfully—especially when children are involved. Michèle and Ellen dive into what makes mediation such a transformative alternative to litigation, including how it empowers individuals to speak up, establish healthier boundaries, and take ownership of their futures—even in high-conflict or emotionally charged situations. With warmth and wisdom, the two explore the nuances of co-parenting, emotional safety, and how small shifts in communication can open the door to big breakthroughs. The episode also highlights the importance of self-care, community, and knowing when to reach for support. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, unsure of what’s next, or just ready for a more peaceful approach to uncoupling, this conversation is a must-listen.

Family law attorney Marc Garelick joins Michèle Heffron for a grounded conversation on navigating high-conflict divorce, custody complications, and coercive control—with strategy, support, and the clarity to move forward. In this powerful and insightful episode of Getting to the Heart: Life, Relationships & Divorce, Michèle Heffron is joined by Marc Garelick, managing partner of the Orange County office of Meyer, Olson, Lowy & Meyers. With decades of experience in high-conflict divorce, custody disputes, and complex asset division, Marc brings not only legal expertise but a grounded, compassionate understanding of the emotional terrain his clients must navigate. Through an honest, nuanced conversation, Michèle and Marc explore what it really takes to move through divorce—from the courtroom strategies that matter to the inner work required to regain clarity and personal power. They discuss the pitfalls of navigating custody with a narcissistic ex, the emotional complexity of financial control, and why even the most contentious divorces need moments of grace and strategy. Listeners will gain practical insights into: Why slowing down before making major divorce decisions matters How to separate emotional pain from legal process What to do when you're dealing with an abusive or manipulative ex Why representation, emotional support, and personalized strategy are essential The changing landscape of family law, especially post-Covid Michèle also shares how her own experience informs the work she does with clients—guiding them through the emotional messiness of divorce with clarity, dignity, and strength. She introduces her upcoming Calling in “The One” private coaching program, a 10-week journey for women ready to become the version of themselves capable of receiving real, aligned love—on the other side of loss, heartbreak, or old patterns. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the stormy weather of divorce or supporting someone who is. Because, as spring teaches us, even the most turbulent skies eventually part—and reveal the possibility of something brighter.

Jamie Peha is a trailblazer in the Washington wine industry, serving as the Executive Director of the Auction of Washington Wines—one of the nation’s top charitable wine events, which has raised over $68 million for vital causes. With over 30 years of leadership, she has shaped the industry’s growth, from launching Taste Washington to expanding national distribution for Washington wines. Beyond her work in nonprofit fundraising, Jamie has created groundbreaking wine and food experiences through her company, Peha Promotions. Now, as she steps away from the auction world, she’s embracing an exciting new chapter—not as retirement, but as "REWIREMENT"—where she’ll continue to make an impact in fresh and meaningful ways.

Divorce isn’t just an emotional journey—it’s a financial one, too. And for many, the financial aspect can feel just as overwhelming as the heartbreak itself. In this episode of Getting to the Heart, I sit down with Leah Hadley, Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, Accredited Financial Counselor, and Mediator, to talk about what it really means to make intentional financial decisions during and after divorce. Leah shares her own deeply personal experiences—navigating divorce, adopting a sibling group of three, and building her business from the ground up—and how those challenges shaped her commitment to helping others find financial clarity in the midst of major life transitions. We dive into some of the biggest financial mistakes people make during divorce and how to avoid them, the emotional side of money, and why it’s never too late to start making empowered financial decisions—even if you’ve never handled the finances before. If you’re feeling uncertain about your financial future, this conversation will give you the guidance and reassurance you need to take the next step forward with confidence. In this episode, we discuss: 💡 Leah’s personal journey and what led her to this work 💡 The biggest financial mistakes people make during divorce 💡 How to balance financial decisions with emotional well-being 💡 Rebuilding financial confidence, especially if you weren’t the primary decision-maker 💡 Special considerations for parents navigating divorce 💡 Free resources and workshops to help you feel more prepared If you’re facing divorce and worried about what’s next financially, Leah’s insight will remind you that you don’t have to figure this out alone—there are people and resources to support you.

In this episode of Getting to the Heart, I sit down with Jenny Zenner—career coach, former collegiate hurdler, and expert in navigating life’s hurdles with resilience and grace. Jenny’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. From experiencing job loss and the chaos of raising twins to suffering multiple concussions and advocating for her family's well-being, she has learned to transform stress into strength. Jenny shares her framework for stress management, including her F-ing A method and the 7 A’s that help individuals move beyond fight-or-flight into a state of grace. We explore how her background in addictions counseling, performance psychology, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) shaped her coaching approach, as well as the inspiration behind her upcoming book, The Stress Response Playbook. Together, we discuss self-awareness, resilience, and the importance of conscious decision-making in both personal and professional life. Whether you’re navigating career transitions, family challenges, or the stress of everyday life, this conversation offers powerful insights on how to reframe adversity and step into a more grounded, intentional way of living. Tune in for a raw, engaging discussion on managing stress, redefining resilience, and embracing self-care—because, as Jenny puts it, nothing good happens fast, but grace is always within reach.

In this episode of Getting to the Heart, I sit down with Shelley Maurer and Sher Emerick, co-hosts of Life Lessons from Pickleball (On and Off the Court), to dive into how this wildly popular sport is changing lives in ways you’d never expect. What started as a simple game has become a powerful force for building community, fostering connection, and even transforming lives across the globe. We explore how pickleball isn’t just about the sport—it’s about showing up, stepping into something new, and saying “yes” to the unexpected. Shelley and Sher share remarkable stories from the court, from playing pickleball in prisons to introducing the game to amputees, wheelchair players, and children in Ghana. They open up about their own journeys—how they met, why they started their podcast, and the lessons they’ve learned along the way. We also get personal. Sher shares her experience of embracing singlehood and staying friends with her exes, while Shelley reflects on how the game continues to bring unexpected joy into her life. And, of course, we talk about the bigger picture—how we can all support one another, lean into uncomfortable conversations, and find connection in places we never imagined. If you’ve ever felt hesitant to try something new, if you’re craving community, or if you’re just curious about why pickleball is taking the world by storm, this conversation is for you.