Shows
Mid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondBeth's Story: When the Perfect Husband Suffers MidLife CrisisIn this episode, we hear from Beth, who reveals the unraveling of her marriage due to her husband's midlife crisis. Their life appeared perfect until signs of dissatisfaction emerged after becoming empty nesters. Her husband retreated into a world of triathlons and distance, distancing himself further when he left for Asia. This absence brought a stunning revelation: he was having an affair with a younger colleague. Beth recounts the shock, denial, and eventual confrontation, shedding light on the personal toll of a midlife crisis and the recovery journey she has embarked upon. 2025-07-281h 28Mid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondUnveiling the Godwink in Everyday Life (Silent Resentment part 2 of 2 with Jenny))In this episode we continue with Jenny as she describes miraculous encounters with Chris Stapleton's song 'Starting Over'. With host Trina Laird, they explore how serendipitous moments can serve as spiritual milestones. Jenny's journey highlights the struggle of longing for reconciliation with a distant spouse amidst the trials of everyday life. Listeners are encouraged to recognize these 'Godwinks,' or divine nudges, as opportunities for renewal and hope.2025-07-2632 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondSilent Resentment: How Avoiding Conflict May Actually Fuel a MidLife Crisis (part 1 of 2)Today's conversation sheds light on the underlying feelings of unappreciation and control that may remain hidden for years. Todays guest has been standing for FIVE long years, she emphasizes the importance of addressing silent resentments to prevent emotional explosions that manifest as sudden erratic behaviors such as having an affair or quitting a job. As seen through Jenny's story, individuals who ignore confrontation often face a crisis in their identity, leading to drastic decisions in an attempt to reclaim power and purpose. Join us as Jenny shares what she learned and how it's making a positive impact as her...2025-07-231h 08Mid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondKiss Cam Karma: When Infidelity Goes Viral and The World Sides with the BetrayedIn this episode of MLC Bomb Drop, the host delves into a scandal that went viral involving a CEO caught on a kiss cam with his HR manager. This public betrayal sent shockwaves through social media, revealing not just issues of infidelity but the broader implications of power imbalances and ethical breaches. The discussion highlights how public and professional reactions have shifted, with overwhelming support for the betrayed spouse. The episode underscores the lasting impact of infidelity on families and careers, urging listeners to speak openly about betrayal and affirming that they are not alone in their experiences.2025-07-2113 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondShark Eyes and Emotional Disconnect: A Deep Dive into Midlife CrisisIn this captivating episode, listeners are invited to understand the impact of midlife crises on relationships, marked by the phenomenon of 'Shark Eyes.' Trina Laird reveals how this condition signifies emotional detachment and a survival mechanism for those undergoing crisis. She warns of the potential escalation into false accusations and legal battles, urging spouses to prioritize their mental well-being. Through real-life stories and statistics, the episode underscores the prevalence of manipulative behavior during such crises, providing a supportive message that reassures listeners they are not alone in their experiences.2025-07-1816 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondMake Your Relationship FAIL In Order To Succeed with IAT Coach Bryan PowerIn this episode, host Trina Laird interviews Bryan Power, an Integrated Attachment Theory coach, as he recounts a tumultuous period in his marriage. What started as a simple disagreement spiraled into an emotional journey revealing deep-seated childhood traumas. Bryan discusses how therapy sessions, intended for self-improvement, opened a Pandora's box of emotions, leading to fears of abandonment and insecurity. By embracing failure as an essential step towards success, Bryan rediscovered emotional resilience and commitment to his son. This episode emphasizes the power of attachment theory in understanding and healing relational dynamics and reminds listeners to embrace FAILURE as the...2025-07-1658 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondWitness to the Wreckage: A Sister's Love and Support is NeverendingSpecial guest Zoe shares her experience witnessing her twin sister Stacy's husband transform seemingly overnight, shattering years of relationships and stability. Listeners learn about the intense emotions, from disbelief to anger, as loved ones grapple with the altered reality. This episode sheds light on the unanticipated destruction midlife crises cause, emphasizing the importance of support systems and community in rebuilding lives left in disarray after such personal upheaval. 2025-07-1145 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondSarah Discovers MLC is Not a Myth But a Psychological Time Bomb That Shatters Her WorldSarah recounts her emotional journey through her husband's midlife crisis, which uprooted their nearly 29-year marriage. Already a firefighter with post-traumatic stress from past events, her husband faced an identity crisis after retiring. His friendship with a young woman raised alarms, leading to heated confrontations and accusations. A series of personal tragedies, including the loss of his mother and a close friend, added emotional turmoil. Friends and family noted his behavior was far from normal, leaving Sarah grappling with their relationship's sudden transformation. This narrative exposes the complexities and emotional struggles faced during a midlife crisis.2025-07-081h 33Mid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondNeuroception: Your Body's Unseen Threat DetectorOften in MLC the person experiencing the MLC exhibits narcissistic traits, even if they never exhibited them before! Listeners often ask if their spouse has been a covert narc or narcissist all along, or is this just a temporary thing? Today's discussion covers how subtle cues, often misread by the conscious mind, can alert us to shadow personalities such as covert narcissists and sociopaths. Listeners are encouraged to trust their gut instincts and recognize these warning signs as a powerful form of self-protection.2025-07-0325 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondThe Discard of the AP is often worse than the Bomb Drop!This episode dives into the psychological turmoil experienced during a midlife crisis, emphasizing how affairs, often seen as an escape, end up causing further damage. The host discusses how the initial euphoria of leaving a spouse for an affair partner quickly turns into regret, resentment and contempt for the AP, ultimately leading to the dissolution of the new relationship. Listeners learn that midlife crises are not just damaging to the individuals but also to their families and relationships. The podcast serves as a reminder that running from internal emptiness through impulsive decisions rarely provides the desired fulfillment.2025-07-0114 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondWork on Yourself? How about...RISE UP! In this episode of 'Midlife Crisis, Bomb Drop and Beyond,' host Trina Laird delves into the emotional turmoil left in the aftermath of a partner's midlife crisis. Emphasizing the power of language, the discussion shifts from the often patronizing advice to 'work on yourself' to a more empowering narrative. Listeners are encouraged to reclaim their power, heal on their own terms, and view their journey as one of rising and rebuilding. The podcast aims to validate the experience of those affected by midlife crisis, offering a supportive community and a message of hope and empowerment.2025-06-2717 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondAn Apology from one LBS Husband on behalf of all men to the Discarded Wives in Pain EverywhereThis short little episode today is packed full with HEART, EMPATHY AND LOVE - something most wives DO NOT GET at bomb drop, nor do husbands when their wives drop a bomb on them! Today Trina reads a letter from a husband who experienced sudden discard by his wife of 22 years, but as heart broken, emotionally and financially devastated HE is...he took the time to write in because it broke his heart to hear some of the stories by the women on this show. He gets it. He lived it too. He feels their pain, just like we...2025-06-2512 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondNavigating the Aftermath: A Midlife Crisis Explored, Three Listener StoriesListener Brian shares his heart-wrenching experience of his wife’s midlife-induced infidelity, unraveling a stable family life. Married for over two decades, with three children, the unexpected affair led to a cascade of financial and emotional challenges. Brian's narrative highlights the consequential disruption to their children's education and the psychological toll on the entire family as they struggle to navigate a changed reality. By spotlighting personal accounts, this episode underscores the pervasive impact of such crises, aiming to foster community support, provide insight into psychological ramifications, and offer avenues for emotional recovery and understanding.2025-06-2334 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondSurviving Cancer and Infidelity: Maggie's StoryMaggie's life turned upside down when her husband of 33 years revealed an affair, compounded by Maggie's diagnosis of stage three breast cancer. Her husband's request to open their marriage, juxtaposed with her urgent fight for survival, left Maggie grappling with betrayal, body image issues, and the unraveling of past identities. Fighting through this storm, she faced treatments alone, reflecting on forgiveness and personal growth. Despite immense challenges, including her husband’s indifference and absence during her medical battles, Maggie's resolve to persevere illustrates her powerful journey through pain towards self-discovery and inner strength.2025-06-181h 06Mid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondFather's Day THANK YOU to the Dad Who StayedThis episode flips the script! NOT ALL MEN RUN! Some stay. Some fight. THEY RISE! This Father's Day we honor those dads, the dads holding the line while your wife spirals out - YOU are the hero of this story! 2025-06-1511 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondMeet Joe Dillon, Co-Founder of Equitable Mediation ServicesMr. Joe Dillon is a pioneer in divorce mediation with an MBA in Finance and specialized training from Harvard, MIT and Northwestern Univeristy. Joe guides couples toward agreements that protect both their emotional well-being and financial futures. Equitable Mediation Services maintains a 98% case resolution rate, significantly higher than the industry average of 70%. With Dillon's guidance and expertise, couples CAN part ways amicably while protecting what matters most. 2025-06-141h 09Mid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondFather's Who Vanish: Cowardice Disguised as CrisisUnpacking the impact of midlife crisis on fatherhood and families. As we approach Father's Day, while many celebrate, others are left with questions, grief, silence. Today we talk about the father's who DIDN'T stay, and what it means for the children, the partners, and even the men themselves. 2025-06-1317 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondBomb Drop on their 25th Wedding AnniversaryIn this heartfelt podcast episode, we delve into Kevin's personal account of his wife's sudden departure during a midlife crisis. Kevin shares how his wife initially kept her emotional struggles hidden, which were exacerbated by the collapse of her business during COVID-19. Faced with financial woes and a diminished social circle, Kevin's wife abruptly left their family home, citing the need for space and self-discovery. This conversation details the impact on their 25th wedding anniversary plans, and how the couple's children are dealing with the aftermath of their mother's life-changing decision. Kevin also shares what helped him navigate this...2025-06-1046 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondRare Opportunity to Speak Directly with a WIFE in MLCIn this podcast episode, your host Trina converses with Melissa, a woman experiencing a midlife crisis. At 39, Melissa recounts mistaking her feelings for another bout of clinical depression. She describes the restlessness, irritability, and lack of motivation that consumed her life, propelling her to question her identity and long-term commitments. Her story reveals the turmoil behind what many see as a stereotype, highlighting the emotional challenges faced not just by individuals but their families too. Melissa's narrative sheds light on the complexity of midlife crises, as well as the search for healing and self-discovery.2025-06-0747 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondUnveiling Stacy's Story: When Love Meets CrisisStacy shares her personal journey through the tumult of a midlife crisis in her marriage. After 23 years together, raising two children, facing financial and emotional upheavals, and enduring natural disasters, Stacy's life takes a dramatic turn. Her husband begins exhibiting strange behaviors, leading to suspicions of infidelity. Despite a once stable life marked by shared values and family focus, Stacy's world unravels when her husband's midlife crisis pushes him toward questionable decisions. This podcast episode delves into the emotional aftermath, highlighting the profound impact of a midlife crisis not only on the individual but on the family unit as a...2025-06-061h 13Mid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondPower, Control and the Diddy Effect: Coercive Control and its effects on one's healthThe recent footage and allegations against music mogul Sean "Diddy" Combs has hit a nerve for so many survivors. In this episode we'll touch on coercive control, how it hides in plain sight and the devastating effects it has on one's health. The correlation between emotional abuse and auto immune diseases is frighteningly high. Medical journals have found that people with stress-related disorders such as PTSD, or complex PTSD, are 30-50% more likely to develop autoimmune diseases such as lupus, MS, rheumatoid arthritis or Hashimoto's. Coercive control doesn't always leave a bruise, but it ALWAYS leaves a SCAR. 2025-06-0223 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondBecoming YOU - 3 questions for the MLC'erToday I'm speaking to those men and women battling the brain fog of mid life crisis. We know you're in pain, we know you feel guilt, shame, fear. Join us today as we have three questions for you to think about in an effort to help you move forward in this crisis, with grace and determination to become the YOU that you truly want to be. 2025-06-0114 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondMemorial Day Mindfulness: Embrace Peace Amidst ChaosIn this episode of 'MLC, Bomb Drop and Beyond,' host Trina explores the emotional turmoil of a midlife crisis, focusing on how such struggles often disrupt holidays. Trina offers practical advice for divorced or divorcing parents on how to gracefully navigate graduations, ensuring they're about the child, not adult conflicts. Acknowledging the complex challenges of sharing life events with a narcissistic or midlife-crisis-impacted ex-spouse, she emphasizes the importance of personal boundaries and creating new traditions. With Memorial Day approaching, Trina also reminds us to honor the true spirit of the holiday, focusing on peace and remembrance.2025-05-2311 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondThe Affair Partner: From Fantasy to NightmareThis podcast episode delves into the psychological turmoil experienced during a midlife crisis, focusing on why individuals often choose affair partners who seem to be a 'downgrade.' The show explores the role of Cluster B personality traits in these relationships, revealing the destructive patterns of fantasy and mutual exploitation. It discusses why midlife crisis individuals, or MLCers, feel validated by these partners and how the temporary intoxication of these affairs leads to lasting consequences. The episode empowers listeners to see past the betrayal and highlights the opportunity for personal rebirth and growth.2025-05-1918 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondMLC Playbook EXPOSED!This podcast episode explores the complexities of a midlife crisis, a psychological struggle often mistaken for mere stereotype. It delves into the subtle beginnings of a midlife crisis, revealing how it starts up to three years before any major upheaval. Listeners are reminded of the silent unraveling process, characterized by irritability, emotional distancing, and shifts in identity. By understanding these early signs, individuals can better navigate the emotional and relational challenges. The discussion sheds light on personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of healing, accountability, and understanding for those left in the aftermath of a midlife crisis.2025-05-1922 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondMidlife Crisis Unveiled: A Guide for PartnersMidlife crisis is a profound psychological struggle often emerging between the ages of 40 and 60, marked by an identity crisis, impulsive decisions, and reevaluation of life roles. Women generally experience a five-stage process where they transition from feelings of discontent to eventual healing and acceptance. Men, on the other hand, often undergo an identity collapse driven by aging and unmet expectations, leading to impulsive actions like affairs or career changes. Although not officially recognized as a mental illness, the emotional turmoil significantly impacts spouses and families, prompting the necessity for understanding, emotional support, and sometimes professional intervention.2025-05-1731 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondCelebrate Resilience This Mother's DayThis episode of 'Midlife Crisis Bomb Drop and Beyond' is dedicated to mothers who feel overlooked or replaced, especially amidst midlife crises. It acknowledges the strength of women who hold their families together through hardship, emphasizing their resilience as they redefine womanhood. The host encourages mothers to embrace their value and offers a heartfelt message of affirmation. Lisa Terkeurst’s message on bravery inspires listeners to face fear with action, reminding them that true courage comes from rising despite challenges. Listeners are urged to celebrate Mother's Day by recognizing their strength and enjoying self-love and joy.2025-05-1110 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondAfter the Bomb: One Wife's Story of Betrayal and StrengthIn this gripping podcast episode, Janie reveals the devastating impact of her husband Bob's affair, which surfaced after nearly two decades of marriage. Despite the outward appearance of a loving relationship, red flags emerged when his behavior shifted following a trip with friends. Janie discovered the affair through phone records and faced emotional turmoil as Bob's drinking spiraled out of control. Her story unfolds as a betrayal involving a familiar acquaintance, and the emotional fallout affects not just Janie, but their entire social circle. Throughout the turmoil, Janie's resilience and strength shine through as she navigates the unpredictable landscape...2025-05-091h 16Mid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondInspiring Pastoral Counselor Jenny Miller Discusses Attachment Styles in MLCIn this compelling podcast episode, your host invites inspiring pastoral counselor Jenny Miller to discuss the profound effects of a midlife crisis (MLC). Jenny shares her journey as a spouse blindsided by her partner's MLC which led her to focus even moreso on betrayal trauma. This episode delves into the psychological aspects of MLC, highlighting the prevalent attachment styles—avoidant and anxious—and their impact on relationships. Jenny unlocks her professional knowledge offering insights into how individuals can navigate these tumultuous times and how to find therapists that can truly offer guidance, support and understanding of this particular type of t...2025-05-0749 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondWife Battles MS all alone while Husband Remarries during MLCToday's guest shares her story of a husband who left during MLC, peeked out of the tunnel for a moment but went back in, married his affair partner and now has a child with her. Is he trapped? It sure feels like it. Today's guest is brave, humorous and continues to see the glass half full. She's a strong woman and here's her story. 2025-05-0353 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondMeet the fascinating Laurie McDermott, CEO of TheWifeExpert.comYes, Laurie is a victim of Bomb Drop also! Hear what she learned to help her reconcile with her husband and launch a completely new career. From a comedian to now an award winning columnist and host of The Wife Expert on YouTube, and about to launch any day...the new WifeExpert APP for advice and support on the go, wherever you go! 2025-05-011h 02Mid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondNavigating Betrayal and Flying MonkeysThis podcast episode sheds light on the tumultuous experience of a midlife crisis, often overlooked as mere cliché. It delves into the role of 'flying monkeys,' or enablers, who support narcissistic behaviors and false narratives during personal upheavals like divorce. The host explores cognitive dissonance and why individuals may align with these destabilizing storylines. Additionally, the discussion touches on the devastating emotional impact of betrayal and how these narratives can isolate and harm true victims. With practical advice on identifying and protecting against these influences, the episode emphasizes resilience and reclaiming personal truth.2025-04-2619 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondUnmasking the Midlife Crisis: A Covert Narcissist StoryWhat's it like when a covert narcissist ends up experiencing mid life crisis? In a nutshell, they still do the typical MLC behavior, discard, rewriting history, smear campaigns of their former partner, but do they emerge a happier, healthier person? Or do they continue with another version of a mask? Find out today as we discuss covert narcissism and how it faces MLC. 2025-04-1927 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondForward Moving Spouse Finds New LoveIn this podcast episode, the host discusses the often underestimated severity of a midlife crisis (MLC), likening its symptoms to depression and identity crises. The episode features Jane, who recounts her marriage unraveling after 29 years due to her husband's affair with her best friend. Despite the betrayal and the restrictions of the COVID lockdown, which severely limited avenues for counseling and healing, Jane manages to find happiness and rebuild her life. The story highlights the psychological impacts of MLC, the repercussions of emotional upheaval, and the path to resilience and recovery.2025-04-0240 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondContinue with KENDA-RUTH STUMPF, Founder of The Hero's Spouse (part 2 of 2)Join us for PART TWO with Kenda-Ruth Stumpf! Please see below for links: Free ResourcesUnderstanding Midlife CrisisFree Online Video CourseQuiz: How Can I Tell if my Spouse is Having a Midlife Crisis?The Hero’s Spouse ForumThe Hero’s Spouse Private Facebook GroupMLC Q&A on Facebook and YouTubeSubmit a Question! I stream pre-recorded responses up to 3X a week.The Hero’s Spouse WebsiteArticles about MLC, Infidelity, Dealing with your MLCer, Healing, Mirror-Work, Forigiveness…The Blog, LoveAnywayMore ArticlesPaid ResourcesStand Up & THRIVE!Paid Membership for Forward Moving Spouses – Support Group which includes the online video...2025-03-2844 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondMeet KENDA-RUTH STUMPF, Founder of The Hero's Spouse (part 1 of 2)Kenda-Ruth survived her husband’s Midlife Crisis—and so did he! She started The Hero’s Spouse website, forum and Private Facebook Group and together they eventually went on to adopt 5 children from foster care, creating a blessedly chaotic life! Kenda-Ruth supports education about Midlife Crisis in marriage and helps guide Forward Moving Spouses through the pain and trauma of betrayal. Her support groups are created as safe spaces for Standers—men and women who are hoping to save their marriages. The Hero’s Spouse offers a variety of resources to offer guidance and support as you are dealing with the pain a...2025-03-251h 20Mid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondPART TWO Husband Emerging from 8 years in MLCOur story continues with part two as our guest shares a story he wrote for his wife, trying to explain what happened. Feeling like he was living a tug of war with his brain, he felt guilt but was completely unable to stop his secret life. He talks of being psychologically manipulated and how that's exactly what led to the end of that emotional affair. As our dear guest emerges from the tunnel he doesn't recall everything, but does recall enough to know that he hurt the woman he loved most of all. He is now more self-aware and...2025-03-1441 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondRare Opportunity to Speak Directly with a Husband in MLCIn this podcast episode, John shares his personal experience with a midlife crisis that began in 2017. As he approached retirement, a loss of purpose led him into an online emotional affair, which acted as an addiction. Despite being married for over 40 years, John found himself entangled in a web of guilt and deceit. His online relationship escalated to include purchasing a house with his new partner, further complicating his life and leading to significant personal and legal challenges. John's story provides a raw, inside perspective on the psychological turmoil of a midlife crisis.2025-03-1251 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondWhen Love Faces Midlife: A Story of TransformationsIn this gripping episode, a woman recounts her 38-year marriage and the unexpected turmoil introduced by her husband's midlife crisis. Initially drawn to his emotional stability, she later realized his avoidant tendencies during conflicts. Her husband's desire to sell their beloved home marked the beginning of a series of life-altering 'bomb drops.' As her partner embarked on a path to rediscover youth and autonomy, she found solace in understanding the signs of midlife crisis. Establishing a support network, she set out on her personal journey of healing and growth, transforming blame into enlightenment and resilience.2025-03-0732 minMid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondMidlife Crisis: The Hidden EpidemicIn this episode, John Doe shares his heart-wrenching experience as a left-behind spouse after his wife's midlife crisis. Despite being unaware of her internal turmoil, John found himself thrust into a world of chaos, facing divorce, financial ruin, and emotional distress. With his daughters caught in the crossfire, John narrates a journey filled with unexpected challenges. Through persistence and support from unexpected allies, he found solace in understanding the pattern behind his wife's erratic behavior, shedding light on what many dismiss as a mere phase.2025-03-0535 min
Mid Life Crisis: Bomb Drop and BeyondMidlife Crisis: More Than Just a New CarThe debut episode of this podcast seeks to shed light on the pervasive issue of midlife crises, emphasizing that their influence can be far-reaching and destructive. Contrary to the cliché of middle-aged indulgence in expensive sports cars, these crises can tear families apart both financially and emotionall. By inviting others to join the conversation, the podcast aims to cultivate a broader understanding and bring attention to the widespread and generational impacts of midlife crises.2025-03-0101 min