Is self-care selfish—or essential?
In this empowering episode of the Midlife and Beyond Podcast, Jo Blackwell sits down with Honor Marks, founder of Honestly with Honor and the creator of Magical Midlife MEtreats, to explore why self-care for women, especially in midlife and beyond, is not indulgent but crucial.

If you’ve ever felt guilty about putting your needs first, this conversation will change your perspective.

Honor shares the story behind her MEtreats—refreshing alternatives to traditional women’s retreats—that combine travel, creativity, connection, and fun. From vineyard walks in France to writing workshops with bestselling authors, each retreat offers authentic self-care, friendship, and a break from life’s chaos. Find out more here

Jo and Honor talk candidly about the emotional weight of guilt, the unrealistic expectations placed on women, and how community can heal and empower us. With reflections on midlife transitions, relationships, and future-proofing your happiness, this episode is full of inspiration for women over 40, 50, and beyond.

In this heartfelt episode, I'm reflecting on 9 life lessons I wish I could share with my 18-year-old self. Each "lesson" is a message of self-compassion, resilience, and empowerment, from self-worth and resilience to navigating early marriage and motherhood.

If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt, questioned your choices, or felt pressured by societal expectations, I hope you will feel comforted, gain perspective, and discover a renewed belief in your own journey. Whether you’re young or simply young at heart, this episode serves as a reminder that it’s never too late to embrace who you truly are. Tell me in the comments what you would like to tell your younger self!

I’m Jo Blackwell, a Positive-Age Advocate, Writer, Podcaster & Researcher. I'm here to remind you that if we manage our health and embrace it, growing older can lead to one of the greatest periods of growth and transformation of our lives. The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when we stop seeing ourselves.

See my LinkTree, where you can buy my books, browse my website and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources.

Letting Go as a Parent: your Empty Nest
Have you just waved your child off to university, college, or maybe even to start a new life far away? Whether it's their first big step out on their own or they're starting a new chapter as adults, this episode is all about the unique, sometimes challenging experience of “letting go.”

Let’s talk about what it really means to be there for them—without hovering—and how to make sure you’re also taking care of you. Here’s to honoring the journey and moving forward with love. 💖 Share your experiences in the comments!

I’m Jo Blackwell, a Positive-Age Advocate, Writer, Podcaster & Researcher. I'm here to remind you that if we manage our health and embrace it, growing older can lead to one of the greatest periods of growth and transformation of our lives. The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when we stop seeing ourselves.

See my LinkTree, where you can buy my books, browse my website and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources.

The New Old: Redefining Aging in the 21st Century

In today's world, growing older isn't what it used to be. We now expect a longer, more active life than our parents' and grandparents' generations.

This episode dives into how the stages of life have evolved over the past century and introduces two thought leaders, Chip Conley and Barbara Waxman, who have reshaped how we view aging.

Covering how life expectancy has shifted from the early 1900s to now, how adolescence was discovered, and why midlife is no longer just a pit stop. We discuss "Middlescence," a new life stage that mirrors adolescence but in reverse, and how this transitional period can help us prepare for a fulfilling second half of life.

Whether you're in your 40s, 50s, or 60s, this video offers empowering insights on how to embrace midlife and beyond. Discover the concept of wisdom workers, the importance of mentorship, and why aging in the 21st century is more about growing whole than growing old.

 💡 Join the conversation: Share your memories of your parents' or grandparents' aging journey on the MIdlife and Beyond YouTube channel

📺 Watch the TED Talks mentioned in the video: Chip Conley and  Barbara Waxman

Please browse my website, where you can buy my books, and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources.

**10 Things I Quit in My 50s That Made Me Happier in My 60s** 🌟

In this solo episode, I share the 10 life-changing things I gave up in my 50s that have improved my life in my 60s. From quitting uncomfortable clothing and rushing through life to ditching doom-scrolling and learning to say "no," these decisions have boosted my happiness and well-being. If you're in your 50s or beyond, or simply looking for ways to simplify and improve your life, this video is for you!

Join the conversation in the comments on YouTube – what do you no longer do that makes you happier? Subscribe for more conversations about life after 50, 60, 70

Please browse my website, where you can buy my books, and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources.

Feeling like you're too old to chase your dreams? Think again.

In this Podcast, I share personal stories, from a shocking hospital visit to conversations that challenged my views on aging. The words we hear, both from others and ourselves, have the power to shape how we live.

If you’re telling yourself you’re too old to run that 5K, fall in love, or start a new career, then you might be limiting your potential. I challenge you to rethink those beliefs and see aging in a new light. Let’s break free from the stereotypes and embrace the possibilities that lie ahead!

Join the conversation in the comments on YouTube – what limiting beliefs about age hold you back? Subscribe for more conversations about life after 50, 60, 70

Please browse my website, where you can buy my books, and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources.

At a Crossroads in Your 60s? Let’s Talk About Reinventing Ourselves!
Hi, I’m Jo Blackwell. At 63, after 14 years as a brand photographer and founder of The Midlife Movement, I find myself at another life crossroads. Like many of us navigating midlife and beyond, I'm asking, What’s next?
In this podcast, I reflect on my journey, from overcoming midlife struggles in my 50s to facing new questions in my 60s. Join me on my YouTube channel as I explore what it means to age with purpose, share my research on midlife and aging, and discuss the challenges of transitioning careers. I'm growing this YouTube channel to change the narrative on aging—because it starts with us!

See my LinkTree, where you can buy my books, browse my website and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources.

HRT - is it right for you? In this conversation, Dr Ferhat Uddin, NHS General Practitioner and Founder of the private Menopause Clinic, Liberty Health, explains what happens to women's hormones during menopause and answers Jo's questions.

If you book a consultation with Dr Uddin, mention The Midlife Movement or Jo Blackwell for 10% off all services.
0:00 Intro
0:33 Doctor education on menopause
2:48 Working in partnership with doctors
5:04 Reliable sources of information
5:54 What happens to women's hormones in their 40s?
7:08 What happens after periods stop altogether?
8:05 The effect of Oestrogen on the body
9:17 Progesterone
11:13 Testosterone
13:13 Is there a blood test for perimenopause?
14:41 Supplements and natural remedies
15:59 The medicalization of menopause - for and against
17:11 HRT myths 18:15 Risks and Benefits of HRT
19:41 Talking to your doctor
21:23 Liberty Health Clinic

If you've enjoyed this conversation, PLEASE LIKE & SUBSCRIBE.
The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when we stop seeing ourselves. See my LinkTree, where you can buy my books, browse my website and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources.

Is it time to redefine your career success? Perhaps your career has been put on the back burner while you've supported others and you want to go all out now you've hit midlife? My guest this week, Rachel Power, draws on her own experience and years of Leadership Coaching to help you answer the "what now?" for your work life.
Buy Rachel's book, "Redefining Career Success: Taking Charge with the P.O.W.E.R Method" "The Body Keeps the Score" by Bessel van der Kolk.
"The Menopause Brain" by Lisa Misconi

0:00 Is it time to prioritise your career?
2:06 Why do so many women leave the workplace in midlife?
6:52 Talking about menopause openly
10:48 Filling leadership gaps
12:01 P - Personal Paradigm Awareness 1
3:15 How self aware are we, really?
14:46 O - Own your Value
17:49 W - Wielding your Power
19:56 E - Evolving your Support Network
22:14 R - Releasing Emotional Baggage
24:32 Taming your inner critic

If you've enjoyed this conversation, PLEASE LIKE & SUBSCRIBE.  

The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when we stop seeing ourselves. See my LinkTree, where you can buy my books, browse my website and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources: https://linktr.ee/joblackwelluk

Do you want to increase your healthspan and age as healthily and naturally as possible? Join me this week as I talk to Naturopath and Perimenopause specialist, Sara Southgate.

0:00 The Key to a Long and Healthy Life
1:43 The Role of Stomach Acid
4:32 Tips to increase Stomach Acid
7:35 Inflammation
11:35 The Best Type of Exercise for women over 40
13:00 Stress and Aging
16:16 Tips to Switch Quickly from Stressed to Relaxed
16:38 Havening
19:39 A 3-pronged Naturopathic Approach
22:49 Herbalism

Find out more about Sara's approach on her website.

 If you've enjoyed this conversation, PLEASE LIKE & SUBSCRIBE.

About the Midlife and Beyond Podcast.

Like all transitions, midlife can be messy & sad & glorious all at once, leaving many midlife women feeling rather alone & somewhat invisible. But what does this transition we are experiencing lead to?

I'm Jo Blackwell, a photographer, author and coach for women who want more from their lives post 50 and I'm here to remind you that if we manage our health and embrace it, growing older can lead to one of the greatest periods of growth and transformation of our lives.

The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when we stop seeing ourselves. See my LinkTree, where you can buy my books, browse my website and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources.

Laurie Gerber has been advising women and couples for over 20 years - here's what she has to say about the joys of dating after 50 - and how to be successful at it!

For more of Laurie's dating resources check out her FREE webinar: "3 Secrets to Finding and Maintaining Healthy Love without Repeated Disappointments"
Learn:✓How to be Ready to Date Like You Mean It in 30 Days or Less✓The #1 Ingredient to Finding A Suitable Companion without Repeated Disappointment✓Essential Elements to Effective Communication even about the Most Awkward Topics✓PLUS: The Key to Finding Your Soulmate in Way Less Dates!

REGISTER HERE: www.lauriegerber.com/webinar

Key moments from this conversation:
0:00 Are you ready for love?
3:06 the 3 stages of dating
7:07 what are your liabilities?
12:30 online dating
15:40 staying safe online
17:50 red flags
19:08 best practice for meeting
20:40 couples coaching
23:09 relationships over 50

If you've enjoyed this conversation, PLEASE DO LIKE & SUBSCRIBE.

About the Midlife and Beyond Podcast.
Like all transitions, midlife can be messy & sad & glorious all at once, leaving many midlife women feeling rather alone & somewhat invisible. But what does this transition we are experiencing lead to?

I'm Jo Blackwell, a photographer, author and coach for women who want more from their lives post 50 and I'm here to remind you that if we manage our health and embrace it, growing older can lead to one of the greatest periods of growth and transformation of our lives.

The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when we stop seeing ourselves.

See my LinkTree, where you can buy my books, browse my website and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources: https://linktr.ee/joblackwelluk

Have you ever thought about becoming a creator on YouTube? Or wondered about what drives those who do?

At 45, Alexa Saarenoja made a bold transition from a distinguished career in architecture and design to a full-time content creator on YouTube. Through her channel and consulting firm, she combines her passion for teaching with her own transformative experience, guiding midlifers to set and achieve their goals and create lives they love.

Check out Alexa's channel here: youtube.com/@alexasaarenoja
 To download Alexa's guide for New YouTubers,: https://mailchi.mp/6895a2633c7f/youtube-email-collection

Other channels we mentioned in the episode: Silver and Solo: https://www.youtube.com/@UCI6cnQSTzRc3MInral3a2fw
Reflections of Life: https://www.youtube.com/@ReflectionsofLife
Check them out!

0:00 Do you use YouTube?
1:07 Redundancy at 45
6:58 Vulnerability
9:07 Dealing with negativity
15:28 Midlife diversity
18:00 What’s good about YouTube
21:16 Starting your own YouTube Channel

If you've enjoyed this conversation, PLEASE LIKE & SUBSCRIBE.

About the Midlife and Beyond Podcast.

Like all transitions, midlife can be messy & sad & glorious all at once, leaving many midlife women feeling rather alone & somewhat invisible. But what does this transition we are experiencing lead to? I'm Jo Blackwell, a photographer, author and coach for women who want more from their lives post 50 and I'm here to remind you that if we manage our health and embrace it, growing older can lead to one of the greatest periods of growth and transformation of our lives.

The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when we stop seeing ourselves. See my LinkTree, where you can buy my books, browse my website and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources: https://linktr.ee/joblackwelluk

Why do we over eat? And how do we make peace with food?Join me and Sherry Shaban to talk about how trapped trauma, stress and hormones affect how we eat, exercise and live!

Sherry Shaban is an osteopath and an anti-diet health and life coach from Montreal, Quebec. She is the founder of the Fall in Love with Fitness Podcast, the HIIT Decks™ App, and Make Peace with Food™, the leaders in an anti-diet approach that rewires the brain’s relationship with food to naturally release bodyweight struggles forever.

Download Sherry's free workbook here: https://makepeacewithfood.com/

0:00 Are you an emotional eater?
3:51 Why diets aren't the answer
6:02 The role of the nervous system
17:18 Trapped trauma
20:24 Somatic solutions
22:49 Who do you follow on Instagram?
23:32 Muscle mass loss
27:07 Understanding hormones
30:56 Intuitive eating

If you've enjoyed this conversation, PLEASE LIKE & SUBSCRIBE.

About the Midlife and Beyond Podcast.

Like all transitions, midlife can be messy & sad & glorious all at once, leaving many midlife women feeling rather alone & somewhat invisible. But what does this transition we are experiencing lead to?

I'm Jo Blackwell, a photographer, author and coach for women who want more from their lives post 50 and I'm here to remind you that if we manage our health and embrace it, growing older can lead to one of the greatest periods of growth and transformation of our lives.

The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when we stop seeing ourselves. See my LinkTree, where you can buy my books, browse my website and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources: https://linktr.ee/joblackwelluk

Find happiness and reignite your life!
Join me and Rachel Marie Martin to discover how you can Get your Spark Back - which is the title of Rachel's new book: https://amzn.to/3YX7Xu (Amazon affiliate link)

0:00 The challenges of an empty nest
1:43 Adding a dog to the family
3:25 Letting go when children leave home
6:06 What now?
9:27 Investing in yourself
11:43 Fall 7 times, stand up 8!
13:12 Feeling invisible
18:00 Connection and friendship
20:16 Confidence
26:12 Get your Spark Back - the book

If you've enjoyed this conversation, PLEASE LIKE & SUBSCRIBE.

Connect with Rachel on Instagram  and Facebook.

About the Midlife and Beyond Podcast.

Like all transitions, midlife can be messy & sad & glorious all at once, leaving many midlife women feeling rather alone & somewhat invisible. But what does this transition we are experiencing lead to?

I'm Jo Blackwell, a photographer, author and coach for women who want more from their lives post 50 and I'm here to remind you that if we manage our health and embrace it, growing older can lead to one of the greatest periods of growth and transformation of our lives.

The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when we stop seeing ourselves. See my LinkTree, where you can buy my books, browse my website and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources.

Preparing for peri-menopause can help ameliorate symptoms, helping you to take your health into your own hands. This is what menopause expert, Dr Tayo believes and she has devised a program to help you do just that: https://getyoursassyback.com/

Note: The NHS does prescribe HRT without payment.

As so often happens in these conversations, we covered far more than peri-menopause symptoms, talking about women's power, the roll back of women's rights in the US and much more - join the conversation in the comments

0:00 How peri-menopause feels
3:32 Blue Zones
5:04 Preparing for peri-menopause
8:58 Prejudice, discrimination and power
13:13 Will women save the world?
15:41 Menopause 3.0 - what we can do to mitigate symptoms
22:20 The danger of not treating women

If you've enjoyed this conversation, PLEASE LIKE & SUBSCRIBE.

About the Midlife and Beyond Podcast. Like all transitions, midlife can be messy & sad & glorious all at once, leaving many midlife women feeling rather alone & somewhat invisible. But what does this transition we are experiencing lead to?

I'm Jo Blackwell, a photographer, author and coach for women who want more from their lives post 50 and I'm here to remind you that if we manage our health and embrace it, growing older can lead to one of the greatest periods of growth and transformation of our lives.

The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when we stop seeing ourselves. See my LinkTree, where you can buy my books, browse my website and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources: https://linktr.ee/joblackwelluk

Getting your affairs in order with Wills and Lasting Powers of Attorney doesn't sound exciting, but there are definitely some unexpected benefits! Join Rosie Wright of Brixworth Wills and I for this short conversation about the subjects most of us avoid.

Note: although some of the terms used are UK specific, the general principles apply wherever you are. However, this is a conversation and not intended as advice - please consult a professional.
Contact Rosie via her website.

0:00 Is this the most boring subject for a podcast? (spoiler - no!)
0:31 The dangers of putting off writing a will
1:46 What is a will for? And LPAs?
3:56 Broadcaster, Kate Garraway - raising awareness about Lasting Powers of attorney
5.45 Busting superstition
7:53 When and why to Review
10:42 Rosie's professional journey

 If you've enjoyed this conversation, PLEASE LIKE & SUBSCRIBE. Thank you for your support!
About the Midlife and Beyond Podcast.
Like all transitions, midlife can be messy & sad & glorious all at once, leaving many midlife women feeling rather alone & somewhat invisible. But what does this transition we are experiencing lead to?

I'm Jo Blackwell, a photographer, author and coach for women who want more from their lives post 50 and I'm here to remind you that if we manage our health and embrace it, growing older can lead to one of the greatest periods of growth and transformation of our lives. 

The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when we stop seeing ourselves. And see my LinkTree, where you can also buy my books and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources 

Join me and Geriatric Pharmacist and nutrition coach, Amy K Wilson, as we talk about the shocking truth about constant dieting, ozempic and nursing home admissions - Nursing Homes in the US are seeing younger people arriving - in some cases 50-55 years old!
0:00 Seeing the outcome of poor nutrition and poor fitness
4:20 The role of inflammation and over processed food
7:02 the health halo and ingredients to avoid
8:40 "low calorie" or "fat free"
10:30 frozen and canned foods
13:00 what happens when we diet?
15:00 why constant dieting is dangerous
16:15 The good, the bad and the ugly lowdown on ozempic
19:00 Why building muscle mass is the fountain of youth
21:00 Creating Balance
23:40 Free safe fat loss recipes

Connect with Amy: www.amykwilson.com

If you've enjoyed this conversation, PLEASE LIKE & SUBSCRIBE. Thank you for your support!

About the Midlife and Beyond Podcast.

Like all transitions, midlife can be messy & sad & glorious all at once, leaving many midlife women feeling rather alone & somewhat invisible. But what does this transition we are experiencing lead to?

I'm Jo Blackwell, a photographer, author and coach for women who want more from their lives post 50 and I'm here to remind you that if we manage our health and embrace it, growing older can lead to one of the greatest periods of growth and transformation of our lives.

The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when we stop seeing ourselves. And see my LinkTree, where you can also buy my books and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources: https://linktr.ee/joblackwelluk

Midlife and Menopause - does it really have to be a crisis?

This week, we're flipping the script with Guest, Nathalie Cordell:
0:00 Role Models & Self Leadership
2:00 Confidence in girls
5:58 Finding yourself again in Midlife
10:00 Women's wisdom
15:01 Authenticity
23:01 Craving peace
28:02 An Allegory of reawakening

If you've enjoyed this conversation, PLEASE LIKE & SUBSCRIBE. Thank you for your support!

Nathalie is an accredited transformational coach, psychologist and writer. After a 20-year career in a global pharmaceutical company, she found her true vocation in coaching professional women through midlife transitions. With an MA in Psychosynthesis Leadership Coaching,

Nathalie's approach is grounded in psychosynthesis - a psychology of the soul that provides a creative yet practical guide to becoming self-led. Her master's thesis on "The Wounded Feminine" examined how restoring the balance of feminine qualities begins with inner work.

Nathalie is passionate about empowering women to reclaim their feminine wisdom and blossom into their full, authentic self-expression. Through Soul Seeds, her publication on Substack, she cultivates a community for self-discovery, sharing writings that inspire presence, courage and authentic connection. 

She is currently writing a book using the metaphor of the Sleeping Beauty tale to illuminate the journey of awakening one's inner beauty through self-acceptance and self-love. Find out more on her Website 

About the Midlife and Beyond Podcast. Like all transitions, midlife can be messy & sad & glorious all at once, leaving many midlife women feeling rather alone & somewhat invisible. But what does this transition we are experiencing lead to? I'm Jo Blackwell, a photographer, author and coach for women who want more from their lives post 50 and I'm here to remind you that if we manage our health and embrace it, growing older can lead to one of the greatest periods of growth and transformation of our lives. The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when when we stop seeing ourselves. And see my LinkTree, where you can also buy my books and subscribe to my Newsletter for free resources: 

Have you noticed that maintaining your weight is becoming an uphill battle? According to this week's guest, diets don’t work - the secret to easily losing and maintaining your most comfortable weight lies with your metabolism. 

Nagina Abdullah is a weight-loss coach for women in midlife and founder of the top-rated website MasalaBody.com. Nagina has a degree in Molecular and Cell Biology from UC Berkeley and earned an MBA at NYU. She has helped more than 1,500 women in midlife successfully lose weight permanently and create a lifestyle change.
 
After she lost 40 lbs by boosting her metabolism naturally, she left a successful career as a management consultant with Deloitte in New York City, working with Fortune 500 health care companies, to share her expertise with women.
 
Nagina teaches women to boost their metabolism especially when what worked before no longer works. She focuses on adding and combining natural metabolism-boosting foods to reduce belly fat and get women unstuck so that they can live in their dream body.

Sign up for Nagina's free metabolism boosting challenge.

About the Midlife and Beyond Podcast.  

Like all transitions, midlife can be messy & sad & glorious all at once, leaving many midlife women feeling rather alone & somewhat invisible. But what does this transition we are experiencing lead to?

I'm Jo Blackwell, a photographer, author and coach for women who want more from their lives post 50 and I'm here to remind you that if we manage our health and embrace it, growing older can lead to one of the greatest periods of growth and transformation of our lives.

The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when when we stop seeing ourselves. See The Midlife & Beyond section of my website for more information and resources to help you navigate change: https://www.joblackwell.co.uk/ You can also buy my books, get free stuff and keep in touch by subscribing to my Newsletter

This conversation is about self love in action, and how to find the love you deserve at any age!

International relationship coach, Junie Moon is passionate about empowering women by helping them recognize their inherent worth and guiding them through the process of healing their hearts. Utilizing techniques like Shadow Work®, her mission is to create a positive ripple effect. By supporting people in their personal healing journeys, she believes we can collectively contribute to the world, filling it with more love, compassion, and understanding. 

Take Junie’s quiz.
Website: www.midlifeloveoutloud.com
YouTube

About the Midlife and Beyond Podcast.  

Like all transitions, midlife can be messy & sad & glorious all at once, leaving many midlife women feeling rather alone & somewhat invisible. But what does this transition we are experiencing lead to?

I'm Jo Blackwell, a photographer, author and coach for women who want more from their lives post 50 and I'm here to remind you that if we manage our health and embrace it, growing older can lead to one of the greatest periods of growth and transformation of our lives.

The Midlife Movement was created to change minds about midlife and growing older, one story at a time. Because we only become invisible when when we stop seeing ourselves.

See The Midlife & Beyond section of my website for more information and resources to help you navigate change. You can also buy my books, get free stuff and keep in touch by subscribing to my Newsletter