Shows
The Midlife Crisis HotlineWrapping Up Season One – Reflections, Growth & GratitudeIn this heartfelt season finale, Phyllie and Nicky reflect on the incredible journey of their first season of The Midlife Crisis Hotline. They share their favorite moments, biggest lessons, and all the ways they’ve grown since launching on Galentine’s Day.They revisit powerful conversations on topics like narcissistic relationships, boundaries, loneliness, menopause, and their experiences growing up as Jehovah’s Witnesses. They also highlight unforgettable guest episodes, the impact of listener feedback, and the unexpected healing that came from sharing their personal stories.This episode is filled with laughter, vulnerability, and gratitude—for each oth...
2025-05-1534 minThe Midlife Crisis HotlineWelcome to the Menopause Party: Symptoms, Struggles & SisterhoodIn this candid and refreshingly honest episode, Phyllie and Nicky are joined by their friends Beth and Mo for a much-needed menopause roundtable—aka the Menopause Party! Together, they break the silence and stigma around one of the most misunderstood and under-discussed transitions in a woman’s life.From the technical breakdown of perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause to deeply personal experiences, this episode covers: Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), natural remedies, vitamins, and sleep strategies. Hot flashes and night sweats. Brain fog, mood swings, and the identity shifts that come with hormonal changes. Diet and lifestyle tips that actu...
2025-04-2449 minThe Midlife Crisis HotlineGrowing Up Jehovah’s Witness – Truths, Trauma & Tiny Acts of RebellionIn this deeply personal and thought-provoking episode, Phyllie and Nicky open up about their childhoods as Jehovah’s Witnesses and what it was like to walk away from the only world they knew.From the trauma of being disfellowshipped and shunned by your community to the emotional weight of never celebrating holidays, birthdays, or fitting in at school, they reflect on how those early years shaped their sense of self, belonging, and trust in authority.They also answer listener-submitted questions about the religion’s beliefs, including:Why Jehovah’s Witnesses don’t celebrate holidays...
2025-04-101h 00The Midlife Crisis HotlineNarcissism 102: Recognizing the Green Flags in Relationships⚠ Trigger Warning: This episode discusses narcissistic abuse and emotionally manipulative relationships, which may be distressing for some listeners.In this follow-up episode on narcissism, Phyllie and Nicky dive deep into the green flags of healthy dating—what to look for when seeking an emotionally safe and supportive partner. They also explore how to spot manipulation tactics, avoid oversharing too soon, and reclaim your power after narcissistic relationships. With real talk, personal stories, and practical tips, this episode is a must-listen for anyone healing from toxic relationships or stepping back into the dating scene with clarity and confidence. 💚📩...
2025-04-0743 minThe Midlife Crisis HotlineNarcissism 101: Recognizing the Red Flags⚠ Trigger Warning: This episode discusses emotional abuse, gaslighting, and manipulative relationship dynamics. If these topics are distressing, please listen with care and seek support if needed.In this powerful episode of the Midlife Crisis Hotline, hosts Phyllie and Nicky dive into the complex and often misunderstood world of narcissism. They break down the difference between narcissistic traits and full-blown Narcissistic Personality Disorder, exploring the overt and covert ways narcissists manipulate and control their partners.Both hosts share their deeply personal experiences with narcissistic relationships—how love bombing led them into toxic cycles, the difficulty of leav...
2025-04-0239 minThe Midlife Crisis HotlineBreaking the Age Gap Double StandardIn this episode of The Midlife Crisis Hotline, Phyllie and Nicky dive into the age gap double standard—why society gives older men a free pass for dating younger women but older women face judgment when they do the same. From Hollywood relationships to personal experiences, they explore why younger men are increasingly drawn to older women and the benefits of these connections. Are we finally shifting toward a more accepting view of love across generations? Tune in as Phyllie and Nicky break down the stereotypes, share real stories, and encourage women to embrace dating without fear of societal sc...
2025-03-2919 minThe Midlife Crisis HotlineThe Truth About InfidelityCheating—the scandal fuels headlines, breaks hearts, and keeps divorce lawyers busy. But why do people cheat? Is it a primal instinct? A sign of emotional disconnection? A learned behavior passed down through generations?In this episode of The Midlife Crisis Hotline, Phyllie and Nicky peel back the layers of infidelity, exploring the science, psychology, and messy reality of why some men (and women) risk it all.They dive into:💔 The Stats: Did you know 20% of married men and 13% of married women admit to cheating? And those are just the ones who admit it!
2025-03-2635 minThe Midlife Crisis HotlineGen Z’s Take on Modern DatingDating today is a whole new game, but how different is it across generations? In this episode of The Midlife Crisis Hotline, Phyllie and Nicky welcome special guest Em, a 26-year-old navigating the highs and lows of modern dating. Together, they compare experiences and uncover surprising generational dating trends.Em shares her experiences with dating apps like Hinge and Bumble, why Gen Z struggles with post-pandemic dating culture and how social media stalking has become a necessary pre-date ritual. Meanwhile, Phyllie and Nicky reflect on dating before the digital era—when meeting someone through friends, at a ba...
2025-03-2245 minThe Midlife Crisis HotlineDating After 40 – The Struggles, Surprises & StandardsDating in midlife comes with its own unique set of challenges, expectations, and surprises. In this episode of The Midlife Crisis Hotline, Phyllie and Nicky sit down with special guest, Becca, to candidly discuss navigating the modern dating world after 40. Becca shares her experiences with online dating over the past 15 years.From generational dating differences to the struggle of meeting people organically, they dive into the realities of midlife romance—why dating apps can feel exhausting, why men and women struggle to ask each other out, and the societal pressures of being single.And let’s no...
2025-03-1948 minThe Midlife Crisis HotlineThis Is Not the Life I Ordered – Embracing Change in MidlifeWhat happens when life throws an unexpected curveball? In this episode of The Midlife Crisis Hotline, Phyllie and Nicky dive into the reality of midlife—career pivots, unexpected detours, shifting relationships, and the moments that make us rethink everything.From childhood expectations shaped by family and society to the hard truths of finances, career reinvention, and changing relationships with adult children, they get real about what it means to pivot when life throws a curveball. Nicky opens up about taking on law school debt later in life and whether it was worth it, while Phyllie shares her un...
2025-03-1542 minThe Midlife Crisis HotlineThe Loneliness Epidemic – Why We Feel Alone & How to Break FreeIn today’s episode, Phyllie and Nicky tackle the quiet crisis many of us experience—loneliness. Loneliness can creep in unexpectedly whether surrounded by family, in a long-term relationship, or living independently. Phyllie shares her personal experience of loneliness in a narcissistic relationship, even while sitting across the dinner table from her partner. Together, they explore why loneliness is on the rise, especially in a hyper-connected digital world, and share surprising statistics about who’s feeling it the most.From the shift away from in-person socializing to the impact of technology, they break down what’s contri...
2025-03-1258 minThe Midlife Crisis HotlineHow to Set Healthy Boundaries and Stick to ThemIn this episode of The Midlife Crisis Hotline, Phyllie and Nicky dive deep into the tricky world of boundaries—why they’re hard to set, how to stick to them, and why they’re essential for maintaining healthy relationships. From childhood lessons (or lack thereof) to learning from Gen Z’s firm stance on personal space, they explore the challenges of saying "no" without guilt.They also tackle a tough truth—people-pleasers often attract those who push limits. Nicky shares eye-opening insights on how setting even small boundaries can help weed out manipulators early, whether in dating, friendship...
2025-03-0827 minThe Midlife Crisis HotlineGentle Parenting: Raising Kinder Kids or Raising Chaos?Join Phyllie and Nicky for an engaging discussion on gentle parenting. They reflect on a special day spent with Phyllie's grandson at a museum, delving into the joys and challenges of parenting in today’s world. The conversation covers the principles of gentle parenting, its foundation in psychological research, and the significance of treating children with respect and empathy.Phyllie opens up about her upbringing and the lessons she learned, while Nicky offers insights from her experiences as a parent. Together, they tackle common misconceptions about gentle parenting, its potential pitfalls, and the balance between nurturing a ch...
2025-03-0528 minThe Midlife Crisis HotlineAging Gracefully: The Power of Women Over 40In this episode of The Midlife Crisis Hotline, Phyllie and Nicky discuss Brooke Shields’ new book, Brooke Shields Is Not Allowed to Get Old. They explore her powerful insights on the InvisibleWomen Syndrome. They also discuss the intersection of ageism and sexism and how it shapes the midlife experience.They also dive into the challenges of dating after 40—from awkward on-the-spot asks to the struggle of sharing a bed (hello, CPAP machines!). Plus, a candid conversation about self-discovery, confidence, and why midlife is the perfect time to focus on what truly makes you happy.Tune in f...
2025-03-0124 minThe Midlife Crisis HotlineBook Review: Nightbitch by Rachel YoderIn this episode of The Midlife Crisis Hotline, Phyllie and Nicky sink their teeth into Nightbitch by Rachel Yoder—a wild, raw, and hilariously dark take on motherhood, identity, and the primal instincts that emerge in the journey of parenting.From real-life mom struggles to emotional highs and sleep-deprived lows, Phyllie and Nicky explore the all-too-relatable moments of losing (and reclaiming) yourself. Plus, they unpack why asking for help feels so difficult, debunk the myth of “doing it all,” and celebrate the beauty of embracing the chaos.Tune in now for laughter, insight, and a whole...
2025-02-2643 minThe Midlife Crisis HotlinePasswords, Shower Caddies & Slaying Midlife DragonsIn this episode of The Midlife Crisis Hotline, Phyllie and Nicky dive into how technology is evolving at lightning speed, leaving many of us struggling to keep up! From smart homes to password mayhem to app updates that make no sense, they unpack the everyday challenges of navigating tech in midlife.Phyllie and Nicky respond to a listener’s email addressing the timeless question: Why do women age like fine wine, while men… well, don’t? Together, they explore how midlife transformation reflects the legendary Phoenix Rising, letting go of old habits, embracing fresh perspectives, and reclaiming person...
2025-02-2240 minThe Midlife Crisis HotlineGoodbye, Kids. Hello, Midlife Crisis!In this heartfelt and candid episode of The Midlife Crisis Hotline, Phyllie and Nicky dive deep into the emotional rollercoaster of empty nest syndrome. Phyllie shares her personal journey of navigating her youngest son’s departure for college—twice—and how it triggered a midlife crisis that led to profound self-reflection and reinvention. From bittersweet goodbyes to finding new purpose through yoga, education, and self-care, she opens up about the struggles and triumphs of this transitional period.Nicky brings her own unique perspective, reflecting on the unexpected emotional waves that hit her after her son’s graduation. Together...
2025-02-1922 minThe Midlife Crisis HotlineDivorce Diaries: Breaking Free, Healing & ThrivingIs staying in a bad marriage easier than leaving? Phyllie and Nicky open up about divorce, healing, and reclaiming their lives.With nearly 50% of marriages ending in divorce, why do so many couples still say, "I never saw it coming?" In this deeply personal episode, Phyllie and Nicky share their journeys—what led them to leave, the emotional weight of that decision, and why they’re happier than ever on the other side.If you’ve ever questioned whether to stay or go, this episode is for you. 📩 Got a midlife story to share? Emai...
2025-02-1540 minThe Midlife Crisis HotlineThe Midlife Glow-UpIn this unfiltered episode of The Midlife Crisis Hotline, Phyllie and Nicky dive into the double standards of aging, midlife dating struggles, and the freedom of leaving societal expectations behind. They explain why women seem to age like fine wine while men… well, don’t.Phyllie shares a friend’s dating dilemma: should she choose the hot, younger guy with commitment issues or the stable but less exciting option? Nicky hilariously dissects why men seem to either give up on themselves or become serial daters. They also explore how today’s women are embracing single life more than eve...
2025-02-1333 minThe Midlife Crisis HotlineFinding Your Soul Tribe: Friendship & Reinvention After 40Welcome to the Midlife Crisis Hotline: Laughing Through Life’s Plot Twists After 40! In this first episode, hosts Phyllie and Nicky dive into the inspiration behind the podcast—creating a space for women to connect, share experiences, and support each other through the ups and downs of midlife.Phyllie opens up about leaving a 25-year toxic marriage, starting over in Los Angeles, and the challenges of finding a new community. She and Nicky discuss the power of female friendships, navigating meetups to build meaningful connections and the courage it takes to put yourself out there. Whether you're faci...
2025-02-1321 min