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Women Mastering Midlife
Victoria Byrd, Pharmacist and Certified Menopause Health Coach
76 episodes
2 days ago
The Women Mastering Midlife Podcast is your go-to show for evidence-based support through perimenopause, menopause, and midlife transitions. Hosted by pharmacist and women’s health coach Victoria Byrd, each episode explores hormone health, brain fog, sleep, nutrition, strength training, and mental well-being. Hear expert interviews and real stories from women navigating midlife with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Subscribe for smart, empowering content every week. Topics: Midlife Menopause & Perimenopause Hormone Health Women's Wellness Aging Well Nutrition over 40 Integrative Health
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All content for Women Mastering Midlife is the property of Victoria Byrd, Pharmacist and Certified Menopause Health Coach and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
The Women Mastering Midlife Podcast is your go-to show for evidence-based support through perimenopause, menopause, and midlife transitions. Hosted by pharmacist and women’s health coach Victoria Byrd, each episode explores hormone health, brain fog, sleep, nutrition, strength training, and mental well-being. Hear expert interviews and real stories from women navigating midlife with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Subscribe for smart, empowering content every week. Topics: Midlife Menopause & Perimenopause Hormone Health Women's Wellness Aging Well Nutrition over 40 Integrative Health
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Medicine
Health & Fitness
Episodes (20/76)
Women Mastering Midlife
75. Reclaiming Pleasure in Midlife: Understanding Painful Sex, Sensate Focus, and Vibrator Therapy with Nurse Practitioner Magen Price

In this powerful episode of Women Mastering Midlife, Victoria sits down with Magen Price, MSN, FNP-BC, NCMP, AASECT Certified Sex Counselor, to unpack one of the most under-discussed aspects of women’s health — sexual wellness in midlife. Together, they explore how hormonal shifts, shame, & lack of education have shaped women’s experiences with sex, pleasure, & pain during perimenopause and menopause—& how we can change the narrative.

Magen shares her journey from primary care to founding Mystic Valley Sexual Wellness, a concierge clinic specializing in sexual dysfunction, menopause care, & couples intimacy counseling. She introduces listeners to two evidence-based approaches—Sensate Focus Therapy & Vibrator Therapy—that help women reconnect with pleasure, reduce pain during sex, & rediscover confidence in their bodies.

From the anatomy of arousal to why “self-touch is physical therapy for your vulva,” this conversation is both clinical & compassionate, blending practical tools with stigma-free empowerment.

What We Discuss:

  • Why sexual wellness deserves a seat at the table in menopause care

  • The difference between physical & psychological causes of painful sex (dyspareunia)

  • How vaginal dryness, hormone changes, & pelvic floor tension contribute to discomfort

  • What Sensate Focus Therapy is and how it helps retrain your brain & body for pleasure

  • The science behind vibrator therapy and how it improves blood flow, lubrication, & arousal

  • Breaking generational shame around female pleasure & self-touch

    • How to talk to partners—& your healthcare provider—about sexual concerns
    • Why pleasure is more than orgasm
  • Resources Mentioned:

    • Mystic Valley Sexual Wellness

    • OMGYes – A resource for women’s pleasure education

    • Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy (find a specialist near you via the APTA directory)

    • FREE Sexual Wellness in Midlife Guide

    About Magen Price:

    Magen Price is a board-certified family nurse practitioner, certified menopause practitioner, & AASECT-certified sex counselor. She has over a decade of experience in community health & sexual medicine, blending primary care expertise with evidence-based sexual wellness practices. In 2025, she opened Mystic Valley Sexual Wellness in Melrose, MA, where she helps women & couples reclaim pleasure, heal from pain, & thrive in midlife and beyond.


    Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

    👉 Subscribe to Women Mastering Midlife for more empowering conversations about the mind, body, and hormonal health in midlife.

    Let’s Keep the Conversation Going: If this episode resonated with you, please rate, review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it.

    Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community and let’s grow stronger together. Listen & subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.

    Join the Conversation

    Get your FREE guides HERE: www.msvictoriabyrd.com/free-guides 

    Share your thoughts and stories on our social channels and tag us @WomenMasteringMidlife  and @misvictoriabyrd Let’s rewrite the narrative together!  

    Find more information on our website: www.womenmasteringmidlife.com 

    Book a FREE 1:1 discovery call to learn more about coaching programs and courses


    Subscribe & Review  

    Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more women navigating midlife with strength and resilience.  


    Disclaimer  

    This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only. The hosts, guests, and experts featured are not your personal healthcare providers or advisors. The content should not be considered as professional, personalized medical, psychological, or prescriptive advice.  

    Always consult qualified professionals such as your physician, therapist, pharmacist, or coach for specific concerns and decisions related to your health or lifestyle. *Women Mastering Midlife* is not responsible for any undesired outcomes resulting from actions taken based on the content of this podcast. 

    Show more...
    6 days ago
    59 minutes 5 seconds

    Women Mastering Midlife
    74. From Vanilla to Vibrant: Redefining Midlife Intimacy, Pleasure, and Safety with Shauna Stewart

    In this episode of Women Mastering Midlife, host Victoria Byrd welcomes back certified sexuality educator and intimacy coach Shauna Stewart for a powerful conversation about redefining sex, pleasure, and intimacy in midlife.

    Together, they explore why “vanilla” intimacy doesn’t have to mean boring, how novelty and intentionality fuel desire, and why safety and communication are the foundation of great sex. Shauna also shares how women can shift from repression to full self-expression, the role of responsive desire, and why slowing down and savoring life is essential for both pleasure and wellness.


    Key takeaways from this episode:

    • Why women’s desire often shifts after the first year in a relationship—and how to reignite it

    • How consent conversations create deeper safety, connection, and freedom in the bedroom

    • The truth about “vanilla sex” and how to bring curiosity and play back into intimacy

    • Understanding spontaneous vs. responsive desire—and how to work with both

    • Why rest and pleasure outside the bedroom are the foundation for sexual satisfaction

    • Stories from Shauna’s transformational retreat in Tuscany and how learning to receive changes everything

    Whether you’re feeling stuck in routine, navigating midlife changes, or simply wanting to deepen intimacy, this episode will leave you inspired to explore pleasure as your birthright.


    Resources & Links Mentioned:

    • Connect with Shauna Stewart: https://lingerboutique.com/pages/sexuality-education-intimacy-coaching 

      https://www.instagram.com/linger.u

      Shauna’s podcast: Life Turned On


    Sexual Wellness in Midlife FREE Guide


    Let’s Keep the Conversation Going: If this episode resonated with you, please rate, review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it.

    Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community and let’s grow stronger together. Listen & subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.


    Join the Conversation

    Get your FREE guides HERE: www.womenmasteringmidlife.com/free-guides 


    Share your thoughts and stories on our social channels and tag us @WomenMasteringMidlife  and @misvictoriabyrd Let’s rewrite the narrative together!  

    Find more information on our website: www.womenmasteringmidlife.com 

    Book a FREE 1:1 discovery call to learn more about coaching programs and courses


    Subscribe & Review  

    Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more women navigating midlife with strength and resilience.  


    Disclaimer  

    This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only. The hosts, guests, and experts featured are not your personal healthcare providers or advisors. The content should not be considered as professional, personalized medical, psychological, or prescriptive advice.  

    Always consult qualified professionals such as your physician, therapist, pharmacist, or coach for specific concerns and decisions related to your health or lifestyle. *Women Mastering Midlife* is not responsible for any undesired outcomes resulting from actions taken based on the content of this podcast.

    Show more...
    1 week ago
    1 hour 1 minute 28 seconds

    Women Mastering Midlife
    73. Surgical Menopause Explained: Symptoms, Risks, and Hormone Therapy Options with Julie Parana, The Menopause OT

    What happens when menopause comes suddenly instead of gradually? For women facing a hysterectomy or ovary removal, surgical menopause can feel like being hit by a truck—bringing abrupt hormone loss, severe symptoms, and long-term health risks.

    In this episode of Women Mastering Midlife, I sit down with Julie Parana, occupational therapist and founder of The Menopause OT. Julie shares her personal story of entering menopause at 42 after a hysterectomy and how it led her to dedicate her practice to supporting women through this life stage. Together, we explore:

    • The difference between natural menopause and surgical menopause

    • Why symptoms are often more intense after surgery

    • The critical role of estrogen in protecting brain, bone, heart, and metabolic health

    • Hormone therapy options (and why more women should wake up from surgery with an estrogen patch)

    • Mental health implications of early menopause—and why antidepressants aren’t always the answer

    • Lifestyle strategies that help women thrive, from strength training to nutrition to sleep hygiene

    • How to advocate for yourself and work with the right providers

    If you’re considering surgery, already in surgical menopause, or supporting someone who is, this conversation will give you the knowledge and tools to ask the right questions, make informed decisions, and find relief.


    Resources & Links:

    • Connect with Julie at themenopauseot.com

    • Follow Julie on TikTok & YouTube: @themenopauseot

    • Instagram: @themenoot

    Listen now to learn how to take control of your health during surgical menopause and beyond.


    Let’s Keep the Conversation Going: If this episode resonated with you, please rate, review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it.

    Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community and let’s grow stronger together.

    Listen & subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.


    Join the Conversation

    Get your FREE guides HERE: www.msvictoriabyrd.com/free-guides 

    Share your thoughts and stories on our social channels and tag us @WomenMasteringMidlife  and @misvictoriabyrd Let’s rewrite the narrative together!  

    Find more information on our website: www.womenmasteringmidlife.com 

    Book a FREE 1:1 discovery call to learn more about coaching programs and courses


    Subscribe & Review  

    Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more women navigating midlife with strength and resilience.  


    Disclaimer  

    This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only. The hosts, guests, and experts featured are not your personal healthcare providers or advisors. The content should not be considered as professional, personalized medical, psychological, or prescriptive advice.  

    Always consult qualified professionals such as your physician, therapist, pharmacist, or coach for specific concerns and decisions related to your health or lifestyle. *Women Mastering Midlife* is not responsible for any undesired outcomes resulting from actions taken based on the content of this podcast.

    Show more...
    2 weeks ago
    38 minutes 12 seconds

    Women Mastering Midlife
    72. Bone Health, Calcium, and Clean Supplements: Pharmacist Jennifer Han on Creating SEEN Nutrition for Women’s Wellness

    In this episode of Women Mastering Midlife, Victoria sits down with Jennifer Han, PharmD, BCACP, clinical pharmacist turned entrepreneur and co-founder of SEEN Nutrition, to talk about bone health, calcium supplementation, and why women deserve better options.


    After experiencing a rare case of pregnancy-lactation osteoporosis, Jennifer discovered firsthand the gaps in women’s health when it comes to bone support. Frustrated with outdated calcium supplements full of fillers, dyes, and corn syrup, she partnered with co-founder Adrienne Bittar to create the first patented calcium chew made entirely from real food ingredients.


    Together, Victoria and Jennifer dive into:

    • Jennifer’s personal health journey that led to launching SEEN Nutrition

    • Why bone health matters at every stage of a woman’s life—from postpartum through menopause and beyond

    • The shortcomings of most over-the-counter calcium supplements and what to look for on a label

    • How bioavailability from food sources like milk minerals and vitamin D mushrooms outperforms synthetic options

    • The importance of prevention, lifestyle choices, and nutrition in reducing osteoporosis risk

    • Why SEEN Nutrition intentionally uses Nutrition Facts (not Supplement Facts) labeling for transparency and trust

    • Practical ways women can support their bones daily—without horse-sized pills or added sugars

    This conversation is both scientifically grounded and deeply personal, highlighting the intersection of pharmacy, functional medicine, and women’s lived experiences. Whether you’re navigating perimenopause, postpartum recovery, or simply want to protect your long-term bone health, this episode offers practical insights and encouragement for mastering midlife on your terms.


    Learn more about SEEN Nutrition and their food-first calcium chews at www.seennutrition.com. Use VICTORIABYRD10 for 10% off your first order!


    Want more support for your midlife transition?

    Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community or schedule a 1:1 Clarity Session with Victoria at www.msvictoriabyrd.com


    Join the Conversation

    Get your FREE guides HERE: www.msvictoriabyrd.com/free-guides 

    Share your thoughts and stories on our social channels and tag us @WomenMasteringMidlife  and @misvictoriabyrd Let’s rewrite the narrative together!  

    Find more information on our website: www.msvictoriabyrd.com 

    Book a FREE 1:1 discovery call to learn more about coaching programs and courses


    Subscribe & Review  

    Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more women navigating midlife with strength and resilience.  


    Disclaimer  

    This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only. The hosts, guests, and experts featured are not your personal healthcare providers or advisors. The content should not be considered as professional, personalized medical, psychological, or prescriptive advice.  

    Always consult qualified professionals such as your physician, therapist, pharmacist, or coach for specific concerns and decisions related to your health or lifestyle. *Women Mastering Midlife* is not responsible for any undesired outcomes resulting from actions taken based on the content of this podcast.

    Show more...
    3 weeks ago
    44 minutes 3 seconds

    Women Mastering Midlife
    71. Stronger Bones, Longer Life: What Midlife Women Must Know About Osteoporosis, Estrogen, and Strength Training

    In this must-listen episode of Women Mastering Midlife, host Victoria Byrd sits down with Dr. Lisa Moore, DPT, to unpack the often-overlooked topic of bone health in perimenopause and menopause. Together, they explore the critical connection between estrogen and osteoporosis, the surprising risks of low BMI, and why midlife is the perfect time to start strength training—not just to build muscle, but to protect your bones, prevent fractures, and maintain your independence for decades to come.

    Dr. Moore shares her personal and professional journey into bone health and cancer rehab, revealing how her own osteopenia diagnosis shifted the course of her career. She delivers actionable insights on:

    • Why osteoporosis is a silent disease and how to know if you're at risk

    • What osteopenia really means (and why it's your wake-up call)

    • The powerful role estrogen plays in bone remodeling and collagen production

    • Why "strong and stable" matters more than "small and skinny" in midlife

    • The truth about weighted vests, DEXA scans, and the real exercise prescription for your bones

    • Her go-to formula: protein-forward nutrition, anti-inflammatory eating, sleep as medicine, and functional movement

    • The evidence-based strength training approach that actually improves bone density even if you're a beginner

    If you're a midlife woman who wants to stay active, vibrant, and fracture-free for the long haul, this episode is your essential guide to taking charge of your bone health starting now.


    Links & Resources: Dr. Lisa Moore, DPT – Learn more at www.drlisamooredpt.com

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlisamooredpt/ 


    📲 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going: If this episode resonated with you, please rate, review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it.

    💬 Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community and let’s grow stronger together.

    🎧 Listen & subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.


    Want more support for your midlife transition?

    Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community or schedule a 1:1 Clarity Session with Victoria at www.msvictoriabyrd.com


    Join the Conversation

    Get your FREE guides HERE: www.msvictoriabyrd.com/free-guides 

    Share your thoughts and stories on our social channels and tag us @WomenMasteringMidlife  and @misvictoriabyrd Let’s rewrite the narrative together!  

    Find more information on our website: www.msvictoriabyrd.com 

    Join the Community! www.msvictoriabyrd.com/community 

    Book a FREE 1:1 discovery call to learn more about coaching programs and courses


    Subscribe & Review  

    Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more women navigating midlife with strength and resilience.  


    Disclaimer  

    This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only. The hosts, guests, and experts featured are not your personal healthcare providers or advisors. The content should not be considered as professional, personalized medical, psychological, or prescriptive advice.  

    Always consult qualified professionals such as your physician, therapist, pharmacist, or coach for specific concerns and decisions related to your health or lifestyle. *Women Mastering Midlife* is not responsible for any undesired outcomes resulting from actions taken based on the content of this podcast.

    Show more...
    1 month ago
    32 minutes 2 seconds

    Women Mastering Midlife
    70. Thyroid Health in Midlife: Hashimoto’s, Thyroid Cancer, and Simple Neck Checks with Dr. Rashmi Roy

    Your thyroid may be small, but it plays a mighty role in your midlife health. From energy and mood to metabolism, hair, skin, and even heart health; this butterfly-shaped gland has an outsized influence on how you feel day to day. Yet for many women, thyroid issues are often dismissed as just “getting older” or blamed on perimenopause and menopause.


    In this episode of Women Mastering Midlife, Victoria sits down with Dr. Rashmi Roy, the highest-volume thyroid surgeon in the world and a national leader in thyroid cancer awareness. Together, they break down what every midlife woman needs to know about her thyroid and how to protect it.


    What you’ll learn in this episode:

    • What the thyroid is, where it’s located, and why it’s “small but mighty” for your overall health

    • How thyroid symptoms like weight changes, fatigue, or hair loss are often mistaken for menopause or aging

    • Why thyroid cancer is one of the fastest-growing cancers in women, especially ages 30–50

    • Why routine blood work may not reveal thyroid cancer and the importance of ultrasounds

    • The simple two-minute neck check you can do at home to catch thyroid problems early https://www.thyroidcancer.com/selfcheck

    • How Hashimoto’s disease impacts women, and when surgery may be life-changing

    • Lifestyle, diet, and supplement strategies that support thyroid health, including gluten-free and anti-inflammatory approaches

    • Why every woman should consider a baseline thyroid ultrasound by age 30

    Dr. Roy also shares her #NeckCheck Challenge, a movement to empower women to take control of their thyroid health and spread awareness through simple, practical self-care.

    If you want a tutorial of how to perform a neck check, Dr. Roy has one available on her YouTube channel

    If you’ve ever wondered whether your symptoms are menopause, thyroid, or something more—you won’t want to miss this essential conversation.


    Resources & Links Mentioned:

    • Follow Dr. Rashmi Roy on Instagram TikTok and YouTube  for her #NeckCheck Challenge

    • Learn more about the Clayman Thyroid Center in Tampa, Florida

    • Book a discovery call with Victoria: www.msvictoriabyrd.com

    📲 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going:

    If this episode resonated with you, please rate, review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it.

    💬 Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community and let’s grow stronger together.

    🎧 Listen & subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.


    Want more support for your midlife transition? Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community or schedule a 1:1 Clarity Session with Victoria at www.msvictoriabyrd.com


    Join the Conversation

    Get your FREE guides HERE: www.msvictoriabyrd.com/free-guides 


    Share your thoughts and stories on our social channels and tag us @WomenMasteringMidlife  and @misvictoriabyrd Let’s rewrite the narrative together!  

    Find more information on our website: www.msvictoriabyrd.com 

    Book a FREE 1:1 discovery call to learn more about coaching programs and courses


    Subscribe & Review  

    Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more women navigating midlife with strength and resilience.  


    Disclaimer  

    This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only. The hosts, guests, and experts featured are not your personal healthcare providers or advisors. The content should not be considered as professional, personalized medical, psychological, or prescriptive advice.  

    Always consult qualified professionals such as your physician, therapist, pharmacist, or coach for specific concerns and decisions related to your health or lifestyle. *Women Mastering Midlife* is not responsible for any undesired outcomes resulting from actions taken based on the content of this podcast.

    Show more...
    1 month ago
    24 minutes 54 seconds

    Women Mastering Midlife
    69. Fertility, IVF, and Identity: Abbe Feder on Turning Infertility into Empowerment

    In this heartfelt episode of Women Mastering Midlife, host Victoria Byrd welcomes fertility and life coach Abbe Feder, founder of InCircle Fertility and host of the Women's Wellness with Abbe Feder podcast. Together, they explore the deeply emotional and often invisible journey of infertility, IVF, midlife motherhood, and the identity shifts that come with them.

    From the raw reality of eight IVF rounds and an ectopic pregnancy to navigating grief, isolation, and the societal pressure to stay silent, Abbe shares how she transformed pain into purpose. She now helps other women advocate for themselves through infertility, loss, and pregnancy after trauma with a deep understanding of the gaps in our healthcare system and the emotional toll of being unheard.

    This episode dives into:

    • Abbe's personal story of infertility, IVF, and ultimately, the birth of her twins

    • How women are conditioned to not “bother” their doctors and why that must change

    • The emotional cost of fertility struggles in a motherhood-focused culture

    • What pregnancy after infertility really feels like

    • The identity shift from "infertile woman" to motherhood—and the guilt that can come with it

    • Why social media is both a gift and a trigger in the fertility journey

    • How Abbe is supporting women today through coaching, advocacy, and real talk

    This is a must-listen for any woman navigating fertility, midlife identity, or looking to support others through it with more empathy and honesty.

    Connect with Abbe Feder:

    🔗 Website: www.incirclefertility.com

    📸 Instagram: @incirclefertility

    🎙 Podcast: Women's Wellness with Abbe Feder

    📧 DM her on Instagram or book a consult via her website

     

    📲 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going:

    If this episode resonated with you, please rate, review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it.

    💬 Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community and let’s grow stronger together.

    🎧 Listen & subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.


    Want more support for your midlife transition? Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community or schedule a 1:1 Clarity Session with Victoria at www.msvictoriabyrd.com


    Ready to join the Macronutrients 101 Course? We begin October 6th. Register here: bit.ly/Macros101WMM


    Get your FREE guides HERE: www.msvictoriabyrd.com/free-guides 


    Share your thoughts and stories on our social channels and tag us @WomenMasteringMidlife  and @misvictoriabyrd Let’s rewrite the narrative together!  

    Find more information on our website: www.msvictoriabyrd.com 

    Book a FREE 1:1 discovery call to learn more about coaching programs and courses


    Subscribe & Review  

    Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more women navigating midlife with strength and resilience.  


    Disclaimer  

    This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only. The hosts, guests, and experts featured are not your personal healthcare providers or advisors. The content should not be considered as professional, personalized medical, psychological, or prescriptive advice.  

    Always consult qualified professionals such as your physician, therapist, pharmacist, or coach for specific concerns and decisions related to your health or lifestyle. *Women Mastering Midlife* is not responsible for any undesired outcomes resulting from actions taken based on the content of this podcast.

    Show more...
    1 month ago
    48 minutes 15 seconds

    Women Mastering Midlife
    68. Get Quiet to Get Clear: Healing, Boundaries, and Midlife Reconnection with Elaine Glass

    In this soul-stirring episode of Women Mastering Midlife, I sit down with transformational speaker, spiritual teacher, and author Elaine Glass to discuss the profound healing power of getting quiet. Elaine shares the story behind her book Get Quiet, how a chance encounter with a labyrinth changed her life, and why silence is the missing ingredient so many midlife women are seeking.

    We explore how stress, over-productivity, and people-pleasing keep us disconnected from our bodies and truth and how reconnecting to that stillness helps us reclaim our power. Elaine walks us through the seven energetic paths in her book, each tied to a part of the body, and how we can use this framework to release emotional and physical blocks, regulate our nervous systems, and return to ourselves.

    Whether you're going through a transition like divorce, empty-nesting, or simply feeling lost in the chaos, this episode is an invitation to pause, reflect, and realign. Elaine and I also dive into:

    • Why rest is rebellious (and necessary)

    • Using the labyrinth as a tool for transformation

    • Letting go of guilt around peace and joy

    • How boundary-setting is an act of self-love

    • The connection between stress, inflammation, and midlife health

    • Why getting away from your environment may be the catalyst you need

    • How childhood clues may reveal your purpose today

    If you’re feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, or ready for a shift—this conversation will meet you exactly where you are.

     Get Quiet is available in print and Audible, with a unique body-based meditation at the end of each chapter to support your healing.


     Listen now and take your first step toward peace and purpose.

    📌 Resources & Links:

    • Connect with Elaine Glass 

    • Purchase Get Quiet on Amazon

    • Learn more about retreats and 1:1 work with Elaine

     

    📲 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going:

    If this episode resonated with you, please rate, review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it.

    💬 Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community and let’s grow stronger together.

    🎧 Listen & subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.


    Want more support for your midlife transition? Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community or schedule a 1:1 Clarity Session with Victoria at www.msvictoriabyrd.com


    Join the Conversation

    Get your FREE guides HERE: www.msvictoriabyrd.com/free-guides 

    Share your thoughts and stories on our social channels and tag us @WomenMasteringMidlife  and @misvictoriabyrd Let’s rewrite the narrative together!  

    Find more information on our website: www.msvictoriabyrd.com 

    Join the Community! www.msvictoriabyrd.com/community 

    Book a FREE 1:1 discovery call to learn more about coaching programs and courses


    Subscribe & Review  

    Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more women navigating midlife with strength and resilience.  


    Disclaimer  

    This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only. The hosts, guests, and experts featured are not your personal healthcare providers or advisors. The content should not be considered as professional, personalized medical, psychological, or prescriptive advice.  

    Always consult qualified professionals such as your physician, therapist, pharmacist, or coach for specific concerns and decisions related to your health or lifestyle. *Women Mastering Midlife* is not responsible for any undesired outcomes resulting from actions taken based on the content of this podcast.  

    Show more...
    1 month ago
    39 minutes 53 seconds

    Women Mastering Midlife
    67. Run Like Hell: Breaking Free from Trauma Bonds with Dr. Nadine Macaluso

    In this powerful episode of Women Mastering Midlife, Victoria Byrd sits down with Dr. Nadine Macaluso; licensed marriage and family therapist, trauma bonding and narcissistic abuse expert, and author of the memoir Run Like Hell: A Therapist’s Guide to Recognizing, Escaping, and Healing from Trauma Bonds. You may recognize her as the former wife of the infamous “Wolf of Wall Street,” but today, Nadine is rewriting the narrative by helping women recognize the red flags of coercive control, reclaim their sense of self, and heal from emotional trauma.

    Together, Victoria and Nadine explore:

    • What trauma bonding really is and how it differs from general relationship toxicity

    • The subtle signs of narcissistic abuse and coercive control

    • Why smart, accomplished women often fall into these relationships

    • The healing process: rebuilding self-trust, confidence, and identity

    • Why people-pleasing and boundary-blurring are red flags we shouldn’t ignore

    • How women can create emotionally safe, calm relationships—especially in midlife

    Dr. Nadine also shares her journey from fashion designer to psychotherapist, her reflections on the Wolf of Wall Street movie, and why writing Run Like Hell was more than a memoir; it was a roadmap to healing for women worldwide. She discusses the importance of therapy, emotional intelligence in midlife, and her thriving Surthriver™️ Community that offers affordable, expert-led healing support.


    Whether you’re recovering from a trauma bond, exploring a new relationship in midlife, or learning to trust yourself again, this episode offers hope, validation, and a clear path forward.


    🔗 Resources Mentioned:

    • 📖 Get a free chapter of Run Like Hell

    • 💻 Join the Surthriver Community: Dr. Nadine’s online support group for healing and empowerment

    • ✅ Download the Pathological Lover Checklist at Dr. Nadine's website

    About Dr. Nadine Macaluso: Dr. Nadine Macaluso is a licensed marriage and family therapist with a doctorate in somatic psychotherapy. Drawing from her own lived experience and clinical expertise, she specializes in helping women recognize trauma bonds, escape narcissistic abuse, and rebuild safe and empowered lives. She is the author of Run Like Hell and the founder of the Surthriver™ Community.


    📲 Let’s Keep the Conversation Going:

    If this episode resonated with you, please rate, review, and share it with someone who needs to hear it.

    💬 Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community and let’s grow stronger together.

    🎧 Listen & subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast app.

    Want more support for your midlife transition? Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community or schedule a 1:1 Clarity Session with Victoria at www.msvictoriabyrd.com


    Join the Conversation

    Get your FREE guides HERE: www.msvictoriabyrd.com/free-guides 

    Share your thoughts and stories on our social channels and tag us @WomenMasteringMidlife  and @misvictoriabyrd Let’s rewrite the narrative together!  

    Find more information on our website: www.msvictoriabyrd.com 

    Join the Community! www.msvictoriabyrd.com/community 

    Book a FREE 1:1 discovery call to learn more about coaching programs and courses


    Subscribe & Review  

    Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more women navigating midlife with strength and resilience.  


    Disclaimer  

    This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only. The hosts, guests, and experts featured are not your personal healthcare providers or advisors. The content should not be considered as professional, personalized medical, psychological, or prescriptive advice.  

    Always consult qualified professionals such as your physician, therapist, pharmacist, or coach for specific concerns and decisions related to your health or lifestyle. *Women Mastering Midlife* is not responsible for any undesired outcomes resulting from actions taken based on the content of this podcast.

    Show more...
    2 months ago
    39 minutes 24 seconds

    Women Mastering Midlife
    66. Pellet Hormone Therapy: What Every Midlife Woman Should Know with Christine Farrell, MSN, FNP-C

    Is pellet hormone therapy safe? Why isn’t it FDA-approved? And why is there so much controversy surrounding it?

    In this episode of Women Mastering Midlife, Victoria Byrd, RPh, dives deep into the nuances of pellet hormone therapy with Christine Farrell, MSN, FNP-C- an integrative hormone specialist with over 20 years of experience. Christine shares her clinical insights and personal journey with hormone replacement, explains the science and safety behind pellets, and clears up misconceptions that often spark online debate.


    You’ll learn:

    • What pellet hormone therapy actually is and how it works

    • The differences between testosterone, estradiol, and progesterone in pellet form

    • Why pellets aren’t included in current Menopause Society guidelines (and what that really means)

    • The risks of overprescribing and why proper training matters

    • How Christine determines if pellets are right for a patient (hint: it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution)

    • The truth about testosterone therapy and women’s libido

    • Why lifestyle, stress, sleep, and movement must be considered alongside hormones


    Christine emphasizes that pellets are a powerful tool, but only in the right hands and with the right patient. If you’re pellet-curious or trying to navigate hormone therapy options, this is the balanced, evidence-informed conversation you need.


    About Today’s Guest:

    Christine Farrell, MSN, FNP-C, is a hormone health expert and founder of Bioidentical Wellness in Westlake Village, CA. She blends conventional and integrative medicine to provide personalized hormone care for men and women. Christine is an Associate Clinical Professor at UCLA and a member of the Menopause Society, International Menopause Society, and other global organizations. She is certified in Vitapel hormone implant therapy and is a sought-after speaker and educator in the menopause space.

    Connect with Christine Farrell:

    🔗 Website: https://bioidenticalwellness.com

    📍 Clinic: Bioidentical Wellness, Westlake Village, CA

    📱 Instagram: @bioidenticalwellness


    Want more support for your midlife transition?

    Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community or schedule a 1:1 Clarity Session with Victoria at www.msvictoriabyrd.com


    Join the Conversation

    Get your FREE guides HERE: www.msvictoriabyrd.com/free-guides 

    Share your thoughts and stories on our social channels and tag us @WomenMasteringMidlife  and @misvictoriabyrd Let’s rewrite the narrative together!  

    Find more information on our website: www.msvictoriabyrd.com 

    Join the Community! www.msvictoriabyrd.com/community 

    Book a FREE 1:1 discovery call to learn more about coaching programs and courses


    Subscribe & Review  

    Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more women navigating midlife with strength and resilience.  


    Disclaimer  

    This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only. The hosts, guests, and experts featured are not your personal healthcare providers or advisors. The content should not be considered as professional, personalized medical, psychological, or prescriptive advice.  

    Always consult qualified professionals such as your physician, therapist, pharmacist, or coach for specific concerns and decisions related to your health or lifestyle. *Women Mastering Midlife* is not responsible for any undesired outcomes resulting from actions taken based on the content of this podcast.

    Show more...
    2 months ago
    55 minutes 28 seconds

    Women Mastering Midlife
    65. Why Midlife Women Struggle With Sleep—and What to Do About It with Dr. Andrea Matsumura

    Are you waking up at 3 a.m. and can’t fall back asleep? Tossing, turning, and wondering if it’s your hormones or just aging? In this essential episode of Women Mastering Midlife, host Victoria Byrd talks with Dr. Andrea Matsumura, a board-certified sleep medicine physician, internist, and Menopause Society-certified practitioner, about the unique sleep struggles women face in perimenopause and menopause and how to actually fix them.

    Dr. Matsumura breaks down the misunderstood relationship between estrogen, progesterone, and melatonin, and shares why women are vastly underdiagnosed when it comes to sleep apnea. She introduces her D.R.E.A.M. Sleep Method, a holistic framework to uncover root causes of sleep disruption in women, including hormonal shifts, anxiety, nighttime routines, and undetected sleep disorders.

    We dive into:

    • Why estrogen is essential for temperature regulation and sleep quality

    • The truth about melatonin (and why it’s not just for jet lag)

    • How to take melatonin for best results, especially in midlife

    • Why women are misdiagnosed or ignored when it comes to sleep apnea

    • Sleep apnea without snoring-  what you need to know

    • How to advocate for better care if you're told to “just take a sleeping pill”

    • Prescription sleep aids vs. root cause solutions

    • The D.R.E.A.M. Sleep Method™ explained

    • Why wearable sleep trackers can reveal helpful patterns even if they’re not diagnostic

    • What sleeping like a goddess actually looks like

    Dr. Matsumura and Victoria discuss why midlife sleep issues are not just normal aging—and why high-quality sleep is foundational for your health span, not just your lifespan.

    🔗 Resources & Connect with Dr. Matsumura:

    Website: https://www.sleepgoddessmd.com

    Instagram: @sleepgoddessmd

    Take the Sleep Goddess Quiz  to find your archetype

    Interested in Dr. Matsumura’s patient offerings or consulting? Visit her site for more.

    Want more support for your midlife transition? Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community or schedule a 1:1 Clarity Session with Victoria at www.msvictoriabyrd.com

    Join the Conversation

    Get your FREE guides HERE: www.msvictoriabyrd.com/free-guides 

    Share your thoughts and stories on our social channels and tag us @WomenMasteringMidlife  and @misvictoriabyrd Let’s rewrite the narrative together!  

    Find more information on our website: www.msvictoriabyrd.com 

    Join the Community! www.msvictoriabyrd.com/community 

    Book a FREE 1:1 discovery call to learn more about coaching programs and courses

    Subscribe & Review  

    Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more women navigating midlife with strength and resilience.  

    Disclaimer  

    This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only. The hosts, guests, and experts featured are not your personal healthcare providers or advisors. The content should not be considered as professional, personalized medical, psychological, or prescriptive advice.  

    Always consult qualified professionals such as your physician, therapist, pharmacist, or coach for specific concerns and decisions related to your health or lifestyle. *Women Mastering Midlife* is not responsible for any undesired outcomes resulting from actions taken based on the content of this podcast.  

    Show more...
    2 months ago
    46 minutes 50 seconds

    Women Mastering Midlife
    64. The Dusty Muffins: Menopause Myths, Hormone Truths, and Why One Hot Flash Is Too Many

    In this spirited and insightful episode, Victoria Byrd welcomes the powerhouse trio behind The Dusty Muffins podcast: Dr. Aoife O’Sullivan, Dr. Rebbecca Hertel, and Dr. Christine Hart Kress. These certified menopause practitioners—and self-declared “Menno Besties”—share their journey from training and clinical collaboration to launching one of the most refreshing, no-holds-barred podcasts in the menopause space.


    Together, they tackle:

    • The origin of their hilarious and unforgettable podcast name

    • What they wish every woman—and every provider—knew about perimenopause and menopause care

    • Why even “mild” hot flashes could be a red flag for brain and heart health

    • The connection between vasomotor symptoms and increased risk for cognitive decline, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis

    • The challenges women face getting prescriptions filled due to outdated pharmacy education and systemic hurdles

    • The case for collaborative, ego-free care across specialties—especially for midlife women

    • Their approach to hormone therapy, patient advocacy, and building business and friendship together

    You'll laugh, nod along, and probably rethink how hot flashes show up in your own life (spoiler: they might not look how you think). Whether you're a patient, pharmacist, or provider, this episode is packed with validation, education, and real-talk about why women deserve better.


    Mentioned in This Episode:

    • The Dusty Muffins Podcast

    • The SWAN Study (Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation)

    • Dr. Rebecca Thurston’s research on hot flashes and brain changes

    • HRT myths and how to empower informed choices

    • SNL’s “Dusty Muffin” skit with Betty White (yep, it's real—and worth watching)

    🔗 Connect with the Dusty Muffins:

    🎧 Listen to The Dusty Muffins: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-dusty-muffins/id1799704881 

    📸 Follow them on Instagram: @portlandmenopausedoc 

    @thedustymuffins @christinehartkress_dnp @drrebbeccaherteldo

    🌐 Learn more about their work: https://www.christinehartkressdnp.com/

    https://osteopathicmidlifehealth.com/

     https://portlandmenopausedoc.com/

    Want more support for your midlife transition? Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community or schedule a 1:1 Clarity Session with Victoria at www.msvictoriabyrd.com


    Join the Conversation

    Get your FREE guides HERE: www.msvictoriabyrd.com/free-guides 

    Share your thoughts and stories on our social channels and tag us @WomenMasteringMidlife  and @misvictoriabyrd Let’s rewrite the narrative together!  

    Find more information on our website: www.msvictoriabyrd.com 

    Join the Community! www.msvictoriabyrd.com/community 

    Book a FREE 1:1 discovery call to learn more about coaching programs and courses


    Subscribe & Review  

    Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more women navigating midlife with strength and resilience.  


    Disclaimer  

    This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only. The hosts, guests, and experts featured are not your personal healthcare providers or advisors. The content should not be considered as professional, personalized medical, psychological, or prescriptive advice.  

    Always consult qualified professionals such as your physician, therapist, pharmacist, or coach for specific concerns and decisions related to your health or lifestyle. *Women Mastering Midlife* is not responsible for any undesired outcomes resulting from actions taken based on the content of this podcast.

    Show more...
    2 months ago
    1 hour 12 minutes 27 seconds

    Women Mastering Midlife
    63. The Menopause Rebrand: Rage, Hormones, and the Rise of the Menopunks Movement with Alicia J. Rose

    In this electrifying episode of Women Mastering Midlife, Victoria Byrd sits down with filmmaker, photographer, and punk rock truth-teller Alicia J. Rose, the force behind the upcoming documentary Menopunks. What starts as a conversation about the personal and political impacts of hormone therapy quickly evolves into a raw, radical takedown of the broken systems that have failed women for decades.

    Alicia shares the origin story behind Menopunks: a grassroots movement born from her own hormone journey and frustration over the decades-long misinformation surrounding HRT.

    Together, she and Victoria dig into:

    • The shocking truth behind the WHI study and its long-term consequences

    • How Gen X rage may finally turn the tide in menopause advocacy

    • Why hormonal optimization is a feminist issue

    • The impact of estrogen on brain health, creativity, and longevity

    • How the system gaslights women into silence and suffering

    • Why artists, not just doctors, might be the messengers midlife women finally trust

    This episode is a call to arms. It's emotional, unapologetic, and unapologetically sweaty. You’ll walk away informed, outraged, and fired up to reclaim your health, your story, and your power.


    Resources & Links:

    • 🎬 Learn more and support the Menopunks movement: https://www.menopunks.com

    • 📸 Follow Alicia on Instagram: @aliciajrose

    • 👕 Buy the merch, support the film: Menopunks Merch

    • 📚 Recommended reading: Estrogen Matters by Avrum Bluming and Carol Tavris


    Key Quotes:

    “We don’t need more products. We need the truth—and a hell of a lot more rage.”

    “What happens if all women were hormonally optimized? Everything.”

    “HRT didn’t just change my symptoms, it gave me my creativity and power back.”


    Want more support for your midlife transition? Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community or schedule a 1:1 Clarity Session with Victoria at www.msvictoriabyrd.com


    Join the Conversation

    Get your FREE guides HERE: www.msvictoriabyrd.com/free-guides 

    Share your thoughts and stories on our social channels and tag us @WomenMasteringMidlife  and @misvictoriabyrd Let’s rewrite the narrative together!  

    Find more information on our website: www.msvictoriabyrd.com 

    Join the Community! www.msvictoriabyrd.com/community 

    Book a FREE 1:1 discovery call to learn more about coaching programs and courses

    Subscribe & Review  

    Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more women navigating midlife with strength and resilience.  

    Disclaimer  

    This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only. The hosts, guests, and experts featured are not your personal healthcare providers or advisors. The content should not be considered as professional, personalized medical, psychological, or prescriptive advice.  

    Always consult qualified professionals such as your physician, therapist, pharmacist, or coach for specific concerns and decisions related to your health or lifestyle. *Women Mastering Midlife* is not responsible for any undesired outcomes resulting from actions taken based on the content of this podcast. 

    Show more...
    3 months ago
    1 hour 23 minutes 35 seconds

    Women Mastering Midlife
    62. Myth-Busting Midlife Fitness and Nutrition with Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple

    In this episode of Women Mastering Midlife, host Victoria Byrd sits down with Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple- exercise scientist, researcher, and truth-teller in the crowded world of wellness advice for a powerful, no-nonsense conversation about fitness, fat loss, protein, hormones, and everything in between for midlife women.


    Dr. Colenso-Semple helps demystify the noise around social media trends and wellness fads. Together, they explore evidence-based strategies for building muscle after 40, bust the myth that cardio is “bad,” and clarify the real science behind weighted vests, intermittent fasting, protein intake, and cortisol.


    Whether you're frustrated by conflicting advice, overwhelmed by online "hacks," or simply wondering what actually works for women in perimenopause and menopause, this episode will give you practical, research-backed insights without the gimmicks.


    What We Cover:

    • Why women can build muscle in midlife (yes, even in their 80s!)

    • The truth about strength training, cardio, and walking with weighted vests

    • Cortisol myths and how real stress, not hormones alone, affects weight

    • Calorie deficits, diet quality, and why "calories in vs. calories out" still matters

    • Protein goals made simple: what's realistic, what’s overkill, and how to hit your needs

    • The deal with intermittent fasting and fasted workouts

    • What to know before filling your cabinet with supplements

    • The dangers of oversimplified hormone therapy messaging on social media

    • Why nuance matters in science communication and how to spot red flags online

    One big takeaway? The basics still work. No magic pills, no quick fixes—just consistent habits, realistic expectations, and informed choices.


    🔗 Follow Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple on Instagram: @drlaurencs1


    Want more support for your midlife transition? Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community or schedule a 1:1 Clarity Session with Victoria at www.msvictoriabyrd.com


    Join the Conversation

    Get your FREE guides HERE: www.msvictoriabyrd.com/free-guides 

    Share your thoughts and stories on our social channels and tag us @WomenMasteringMidlife  and @misvictoriabyrd Let’s rewrite the narrative together!  

    Find more information on our website: www.msvictoriabyrd.com 

    Join the Community! www.msvictoriabyrd.com/community 

    Book a FREE 1:1 discovery call to learn more about coaching programs and courses


    Subscribe & Review  

    Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more women navigating midlife with strength and resilience.  


    Disclaimer  

    This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only. The hosts, guests, and experts featured are not your personal healthcare providers or advisors. The content should not be considered as professional, personalized medical, psychological, or prescriptive advice.  


    Always consult qualified professionals such as your physician, therapist, pharmacist, or coach for specific concerns and decisions related to your health or lifestyle. *Women Mastering Midlife* is not responsible for any undesired outcomes resulting from actions taken based on the content of this podcast.

    Show more...
    3 months ago
    48 minutes 4 seconds

    Women Mastering Midlife
    61. The Estrogen Alzheimer’s Connection: Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl on Menopause, Brain Health & Cleopatra RX

    Could the key to protecting women's brains during menopause already exist and be overlooked for decades?

    In this groundbreaking episode, I sit down with Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl, UCLA neurologist and internationally recognized researcher, to explore the powerful link between estrogen, menopause, and cognitive health. Dr. Voskuhl breaks down her decades of research on sex differences in neurological disease and the role of estriol, a lesser-known estrogen unique to pregnancy, in protecting brain function.

    We discuss:

    • Why 70% of menopausal women experience cognitive decline and how it’s often dismissed

    • The overlooked role of estriol in brain protection and how it differs from estradiol

    • Her creation of Cleopatra RX and the science behind its formulation for cognition, not just hot flashes

    • What her clinical trials in MS patients revealed about estrogen’s neuroprotective effects

    • The future of menopause care, Alzheimer’s prevention, and women’s brain health

    • The difference between FDA approval, safety data, and why estriol has been used safely in Europe for 40+ years

    Dr. Voskuhl shares why she believes we must stop ignoring the brain in menopause and how Cleopatra RX is aiming to fill that gap with a safe, affordable, and research-backed solution for cognitive decline in midlife women.

    This is a must-listen for any woman experiencing brain fog, verbal memory lapses, or focus issues during perimenopause and menopause.

    🔗 Resources & Links:

    • Learn more: https://www.cleopatrarx.com

    • Research publications: Cleopatra RX → RCare → Scientific Publications

    • Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl’s UCLA profile: HERE

    Want more support for your midlife transition? Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community or schedule a 1:1 Clarity Session with Victoria at www.msvictoriabyrd.com

    Join the Conversation

    Get your FREE guides HERE: www.msvictoriabyrd.com/free-guides 

    Share your thoughts and stories on our social channels and tag us @WomenMasteringMidlife  and @misvictoriabyrd Let’s rewrite the narrative together!  

    Find more information on our website: www.msvictoriabyrd.com 

    Join the Community! www.msvictoriabyrd.com/community 

    Book a FREE 1:1 discovery call to learn more about coaching programs and courses

    Subscribe & Review  

    Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more women navigating midlife with strength and resilience.  

    Disclaimer  

    This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only. The hosts, guests, and experts featured are not your personal healthcare providers or advisors. The content should not be considered as professional, personalized medical, psychological, or prescriptive advice.  

    Always consult qualified professionals such as your physician, therapist, pharmacist, or coach for specific concerns and decisions related to your health or lifestyle. *Women Mastering Midlife* is not responsible for any undesired outcomes resulting from actions taken based on the content of this podcast.  


    Show more...
    3 months ago
    50 minutes 36 seconds

    Women Mastering Midlife
    60. From Pause to Power: How Stay-at-Home Moms Can Reinvent Themselves and Thrive in Midlife with Sharon Macey

    In this inspiring episode of Women Mastering Midlife, host Victoria Byrd welcomes Sharon Macy — motivational speaker, content creator, and host of the globally ranked podcast Mom to More. Sharon shares her journey from two decades as a stay-at-home mom to becoming a celebrated podcaster and community builder.

    Together, Victoria and Sharon dive into the often invisible value of motherhood, reframing career "pauses" as strategic and powerful foundations for a new chapter. They explore how the skills women gain during motherhood — from emotional intelligence and conflict resolution to project management and leadership — are deeply transferable and deserve recognition.


    Listeners will walk away with:

    • Practical steps for rediscovering your purpose after motherhood

    • Ways to reframe fear and self-doubt when stepping into something new

    • Inspiration from other midlife women who started small and created massive impact

    • How to identify and own the "invisible resume" of your stay-at-home years

    • The importance of community and connection during reinvention

    Whether you’re reentering the workforce, starting something entirely new, or simply trying to rediscover yourself after years of caregiving, this episode is a must-listen.


    Connect with Sharon Macy:

    🎙 Podcast: Mom to More

    📧 Email: hello@momtomore.com

    🌐 Website: www.momtomore.com

    📸 Instagram: @momtomore

    🔗 LinkedIn: Sharon Macy on LinkedIn

    📘 Facebook: Mom to More Facebook Page


    Want more support for your midlife transition? Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community or schedule a 1:1 Clarity Session with Victoria at www.msvictoriabyrd.com


    Join the Conversation

    Get your FREE guides HERE: www.msvictoriabyrd.com/free-guides 

    Share your thoughts and stories on our social channels and tag us @WomenMasteringMidlife  and @misvictoriabyrd Let’s rewrite the narrative together!  

    Find more information on our website: www.msvictoriabyrd.com 

    Join the Community! www.msvictoriabyrd.com/community 

    Book a FREE 1:1 discovery call to learn more about coaching programs and courses


    Subscribe & Review  

    Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more women navigating midlife with strength and resilience.  


    Disclaimer  

    This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only. The hosts, guests, and experts featured are not your personal healthcare providers or advisors. The content should not be considered as professional, personalized medical, psychological, or prescriptive advice.  

    Always consult qualified professionals such as your physician, therapist, pharmacist, or coach for specific concerns and decisions related to your health or lifestyle. *Women Mastering Midlife* is not responsible for any undesired outcomes resulting from actions taken based on the content of this podcast.

    Show more...
    3 months ago
    39 minutes 13 seconds

    Women Mastering Midlife
    59. Rebuilding, Reinventing, & Rising: Thriving Through Divorce, Motherhood, & Midlife Business with Annie Evans

    Today on Women Mastering Midlife, I’m joined by Annie Evans- entrepreneur, single mom, skincare expert, and all-around powerhouse, for a refreshingly real conversation about navigating life after divorce, building a thriving business, and embracing self-care and community during the midlife years. Annie shares how she went from reluctant business owner to founder of two successful locations and her own skincare line, all while raising her two children and learning how to prioritize her own well-being.

    We dive into the realities of midlife dating, the challenges of managing hormonal shifts alongside parenting teens, why self-care is non-negotiable (even if it looks different than you expected), and how women can leverage their hidden skills to reinvent their lives after major transitions. Annie’s story is packed with wisdom, laughter, and the reminder that reinvention at midlife isn't just possible, it’s powerful.

    If you're a midlife woman wondering how to rebuild, reclaim your identity, or take a leap into something new, this episode is for you.

    What We Cover in This Episode:

    • Annie's journey from economist to esthetician to multi-location business owner

    • Lessons from building a business as a single mom in midlife

    • How divorce reshapes your sense of identity and motherhood

    • The unexpected benefits (and challenges) of dating in your 40s

    • Prioritizing self-care in the busiest seasons of life

    • Letting go of societal expectations and redefining success on your terms

    • The importance of asking for help, building community, and finding joy in solo adventures

    • Why women underestimate their transferable skills — and how to own your experience

    • Words of encouragement for any woman standing at a new beginning

    Resources Mentioned:

    Books: Who Not How, 10x is Easier than 2x, Traction

    Small Business Administration (SBA) resources for women entrepreneurs

    Connect with Annie Evans: https://spruceshoppe.com/

    Join the Conversation

    Get your FREE guides HERE: www.msvictoriabyrd.com/free-guides 

    Share your thoughts and stories on our social channels and tag us @WomenMasteringMidlife  and @misvictoriabyrd Let’s rewrite the narrative together!  

    Find more information on our website: www.msvictoriabyrd.com 

    Join the Community! www.msvictoriabyrd.com/community 

    Book a FREE 1:1 discovery call to learn more about coaching programs and courses

    Subscribe & Review  

    Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more women navigating midlife with strength and resilience.  

    Disclaimer  

    This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only. The hosts, guests, and experts featured are not your personal healthcare providers or advisors. The content should not be considered as professional, personalized medical, psychological, or prescriptive advice.  

    Always consult qualified professionals such as your physician, therapist, pharmacist, or coach for specific concerns and decisions related to your health or lifestyle. *Women Mastering Midlife* is not responsible for any undesired outcomes resulting from actions taken based on the content of this podcast.  

    Show more...
    3 months ago
    55 minutes 42 seconds

    Women Mastering Midlife
    58. Magnesium and Midlife: The Unsung Hero of Hormone Health, Sleep & Mood

    In this empowering episode of Women Mastering Midlife, Victoria Byrd, RPh, dives into one of the most underrated minerals for women in perimenopause and menopause: magnesium.


    Often overlooked, magnesium plays a critical role in hormone balance, sleep quality, mood regulation, muscle function, and more. But not all magnesium is created equal—and the form you choose can make a big difference in how you feel.


    Join Victoria as she breaks down:

    • Why magnesium is essential in midlife (and why declining estrogen makes deficiency more common)

    • The signs you may be low in magnesium (hello, insomnia, anxiety, muscle cramps, and restless leg syndrome!)

    • Top magnesium-rich foods to add to your plate

    • A breakdown of the different forms of magnesium—including glycinate, citrate, malate, L-threonate, oxide, taurate, and chloride—and which ones support sleep, digestion, brain health, and more

    • Dosage guidance and supplement safety tips

    • When to supplement and when to prioritize food sources

    Whether you’re struggling with sleep, mood swings, or muscle tension, magnesium could be the missing piece of your midlife wellness puzzle.

    Mentioned in the Episode

    • 📝 Free Supplement Guide with a magnesium breakdown chart: Get it at www.msvictoriabyrd.com/free-guides

    • 🧠 Dr. Rhonda Patrick’s research on magnesium and brain health

    • 📚 Dr. Lara Briden’s Period Repair Manual

    • 🧂 NIH Magnesium Fact Sheet for health professionals


    Want more support for your midlife transition?

    Join the Women Mastering Midlife Community or schedule a 1:1 Clarity Session with Victoria at www.msvictoriabyrd.com


    Join the Conversation

    Get your FREE guides HERE: www.msvictoriabyrd.com/free-guides 

    Share your thoughts and stories on our social channels and tag us @WomenMasteringMidlife  and @misvictoriabyrd Let’s rewrite the narrative together!  

    Find more information on our website: www.msvictoriabyrd.com 

    Join the Community! www.msvictoriabyrd.com/community 

    Book a FREE 1:1 discovery call to learn more about coaching programs and courses


    Subscribe & Review  

    Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more women navigating midlife with strength and resilience.  


    Disclaimer  

    This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only. The hosts, guests, and experts featured are not your personal healthcare providers or advisors. The content should not be considered as professional, personalized medical, psychological, or prescriptive advice.  

    Always consult qualified professionals such as your physician, therapist, pharmacist, or coach for specific concerns and decisions related to your health or lifestyle. *Women Mastering Midlife* is not responsible for any undesired outcomes resulting from actions taken based on the content of this podcast.  

    Show more...
    4 months ago
    17 minutes 11 seconds

    Women Mastering Midlife
    57. Why Creatine Is a Game-Changer for Women Over 40: Muscle, Memory & Midlife Strength

    In this episode of Women Mastering Midlife, Victoria Byrd, licensed pharmacist and integrative women’s health coach, breaks down everything you need to know about creatine supplementation for women over 40.

    Once known only for “muscle bros,” creatine is now backed by solid research for its benefits in muscle preservation, cognitive function, bone density, and energy—especially during perimenopause and menopause.


    You’ll learn:

    • Why women start losing 3–8% of muscle mass per decade after 30—and how creatine helps slow it down

    • What the latest research says about creatine’s effects on strength and performance in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women (even without workouts!)

    • Creatine’s brain-boosting and bone-supporting benefits as we age

    • The truth about safety, water retention, and common myths

    • Dosage, timing, and whether capsules or powder work better

    • Victoria’s personal routine and trusted brands (Thorne, Optimum Nutrition, Naked Creatine)

    • Why consistency matters more than timing—and how to easily add it to your day

    👟 Whether you're strength training 3x a week or just getting started, this episode gives you the clarity and confidence to decide if creatine belongs in your midlife wellness plan.


    🔗 Links + Resources Mentioned:

    • 💪 Grab Victoria’s Free Strength Training Guide for Midlife Women

    • 📖 Blog post: Creatine for Women in Midlife

    • 🧠 Book a 50-minute Midlife Mastery Clarity Session

    • 📚 Experts to follow: Dr. Gabrielle Lyon and Dr. Stacy Sims

    💬 Let’s Connect: Have questions about creatine or midlife muscle loss? DM Victoria on Instagram @msvictoriabyrd or leave a comment with your takeaways!


    Join the Conversation

    Get your FREE guides HERE: www.msvictoriabyrd.com/free-guides 

    Share your thoughts and stories on our social channels and tag us @WomenMasteringMidlife  and @misvictoriabyrd Let’s rewrite the narrative together!  

    Find more information on our website: www.msvictoriabyrd.com 

    Join the Community! www.msvictoriabyrd.com/community 

    Book a FREE 1:1 discovery call to learn more about coaching programs and courses


    Subscribe & Review  

    Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more women navigating midlife with strength and resilience.  


    Disclaimer  

    This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only. The hosts, guests, and experts featured are not your personal healthcare providers or advisors. The content should not be considered as professional, personalized medical, psychological, or prescriptive advice.  

    Always consult qualified professionals such as your physician, therapist, pharmacist, or coach for specific concerns and decisions related to your health or lifestyle. *Women Mastering Midlife* is not responsible for any undesired outcomes resulting from actions taken based on the content of this podcast.

    Show more...
    4 months ago
    20 minutes 27 seconds

    Women Mastering Midlife
    56. Midlife Ask Me Anything: Hormone Therapy, Brain Fog, Strength Training, and the Truth About Belly Fat

    Welcome to a special Ask Me Anything (AMA) episode of Women Mastering Midlife with your host, Victoria Byrd, pharmacist, certified menopause practitioner, and integrative health coach. In this milestone episode, Victoria reflects on her journey from pharmacy to midlife coaching and answers your most frequently asked questions about navigating the menopause transition.


    Tune in as she unpacks powerful and practical advice around:

    •  Why she left pharmacy to become a menopause health coach

    • The evolving role of pharmacists in menopause care and why education and collaboration matter

    • Hormone therapy facts: Is it safe? Who is it for? What the WHI study got wrong

    • Perimenopause brain fog and what Dr. Lisa Mosconi’s research reveals about estrogen and the brain

    •  How to stay motivated during injury recovery and strength training setbacks

    •  Real talk on midlife belly fat, metabolic changes, cortisol, and why cookie-cutter diet plans don’t work

    Victoria also dives into the cultural messaging midlife women have internalized about their bodies and the real reasons sustainable weight loss is more complicated than calories in/calories out.


    Whether you’re deep in perimenopause, navigating the changes of postmenopause, or just curious about your body, this episode is full of insights, validation, and actionable strategies to help you thrive.

    🔗 Resources & Links:

    • 💼 Learn about 1:1 coaching & availability: msvictoriabyrd.com

    • 📩 Submit your AMA questions for the next episode: hello@msvictoriabyrd.com

    • 📚 Free resources for midlife women: msvictoriabyrd.com/free-guides

    • 🧠 Book Rec: The Menopause Brain by Dr. Lisa Mosconi

    Join the Conversation:

    Get your FREE guides HERE: www.msvictoriabyrd.com/free-guides 

    Share your thoughts and stories on our social channels and tag us @WomenMasteringMidlife  and @misvictoriabyrd Let’s rewrite the narrative together!  

    Find more information on our website: www.msvictoriabyrd.com 

    Join the Community! www.msvictoriabyrd.com/community 

    Book a FREE 1:1 discovery call to learn more about coaching programs and courses


    Subscribe & Review  

    Enjoyed this episode? Be sure to subscribe and leave a review. Your feedback helps us reach more women navigating midlife with strength and resilience.  


    Disclaimer  

    This podcast is for entertainment, educational, and informational purposes only. The hosts, guests, and experts featured are not your personal healthcare providers or advisors. The content should not be considered as professional, personalized medical, psychological, or prescriptive advice.  

    Always consult qualified professionals such as your physician, therapist, pharmacist, or coach for specific concerns and decisions related to your health or lifestyle. *Women Mastering Midlife* is not responsible for any undesired outcomes resulting from actions taken based on the content of this podcast.

    Show more...
    4 months ago
    37 minutes 30 seconds

    Women Mastering Midlife
    The Women Mastering Midlife Podcast is your go-to show for evidence-based support through perimenopause, menopause, and midlife transitions. Hosted by pharmacist and women’s health coach Victoria Byrd, each episode explores hormone health, brain fog, sleep, nutrition, strength training, and mental well-being. Hear expert interviews and real stories from women navigating midlife with clarity, confidence, and purpose. Subscribe for smart, empowering content every week. Topics: Midlife Menopause & Perimenopause Hormone Health Women's Wellness Aging Well Nutrition over 40 Integrative Health