Shows
Mindful Life Changes: Weekly Affirmations For Midlife99. Affirmation For Bravery: How to Put Yourself Out There After 40 CourageouslyDoes putting yourself out there in midlife feel infinitely more terrifying than it did in your 20s? Whether you're considering a career change, returning to dating, launching a business, or starting a creative pursuit, the stakes feel higher now—and that inner voice of doubt sounds louder than ever. In this courage-building episode, discover the B.R.A.V.E. framework that breaks down bravery into practical, manageable steps specifically designed for midlife courage-building.Host Valerie Mekki shares her personal experience of launching a YouTube channel at 46 and the fear that came with it. You'll learn how to...2025-04-0614 min
Mindful Life Changes: Weekly Affirmations For MidlifeSpecial Announcement: We're on now on YouTube! Oh, hello midlife & Mindful Life ChangesJoin me for an exciting announcement as I reveal my brand new YouTube channel "Oh Hello Midlife"! After months of preparation, I'm expanding beyond audio to bring you visual content that captures the real-life challenges and triumphs of midlife. Discover how you can now watch animated versions of your favorite affirmations, see candid videos about navigating the sandwich generation, and follow my personal journey caring for my parents at age 46. This channel represents the next step in our shared midlife adventure—a space where we can see and hear the experiences that connect us. Subscribe to "...2025-04-0602 minMindful Life Changes: Weekly Affirmations For Midlife97. Midlife Slump? You Deserve Better— ‘I Am’ Affirmations for Self WorthAre you constantly putting everyone else's needs before your own, leaving nothing but exhaustion and emptiness at the end of each day? That midlife slump—where you barely recognize the vibrant woman you once were—doesn't have to be your new normal. In this rejuvenating episode of the Mindful Life Changes podcast, discover how to reclaim your sense of self-worth and inner light through the power of "I Am" statements and simple self-care practices that fit into even the busiest life.Host Valerie Mekki guides you through understanding how you gradually lost connection with your...2025-03-2312 min
Aging with Grace & StyleWhy Making Friends After 50 Is Different and How to SucceedShow Notes:Summary:The intricacies of forging friendships in adulthood, particularly after the age of fifty, constitute the central theme of today’s discourse. As we traverse this stage of life, we often encounter a myriad of challenges that render the establishment of new connections increasingly arduous. The dissolution of structured social environments, coupled with shifting priorities and emotional hesitations, significantly complicates our pursuit of meaningful relationships. However, we assert that it is never too late to cultivate profound and lasting friendships; intentionality is the key. Throughout this episode, we will explore the nuanced dynamics of...2025-03-0418 minMindful Life Changes: Weekly Affirmations For Midlife94. When You’ve Dropped The Ball: Affirmation for Self Compassion in MidlifeIn the complex juggling act of midlife, we're often managing multiple responsibilities simultaneously—from career demands and parenting challenges to caring for aging parents and maintaining our own wellbeing. In this heartfelt episode of the Mindful Life Changes podcast, host Valerie Mekki explores the shame and perfectionism that emerge when we inevitably drop one of these balls.Through personal stories and compassionate insights, Valerie offers a powerful affirmation for grace that reminds us we're human, not superhuman. Learn three practical approaches to transform moments of perceived failure into opportunities for self-compassion and growth. Discover ho...2025-03-0211 minAging with Grace & StyleNavigating Stress in Midlife: Practical Strategies for PeaceShow Notes:Summary:Stress and anxiety, often perceived as inevitable companions during midlife, need not dictate our existence. A significant portion of adults in this life stage grapple with overwhelming responsibilities, ranging from career advancements to familial obligations, all while navigating physiological changes. In this discourse, we elucidate practical methodologies to alleviate stress, aiming to empower individuals to reclaim their tranquility rather than merely endure their circumstances. We delve into the nuances of how stress manifests uniquely in midlife and offer actionable strategies that are not mere temporary solutions, but sustainable practices capable of fostering...2025-02-2523 minMindful Life Changes: Weekly Affirmations For Midlife92. When Life Shifts: A Midlife Affirmation for GrowthLife has a way of surprising us with unexpected turns, especially in midlife. From caring for aging parents to navigating career shifts and watching children grow into adults, these changes can feel overwhelming. But what if every disruption was actually an invitation to grow? Join host, Valerie Mekki, as she shares her personal journey of transformation at 45 and discover how to turn life's challenges into opportunities for growth.In this episode, learn the powerful GROW method for thriving through change, followed by soul-nurturing affirmations for growth in midlife. Whether you're facing major life transitions or subtle shifts...2025-02-1609 minAging with Grace & StyleThe Soft Life Shift: Embracing Ease and Joy in MidlifeShow Notes:In this episode of Aging with Grace and Style, host Valerie Hatcher discusses the concept of the "soft life" and how it contrasts with the hustle culture many have known for years. Valerie shares her personal journey from embracing constant busyness to realizing that a more intentional, peaceful approach can lead to true fulfillment. She highlights the importance of prioritizing mental and physical health, building meaningful relationships, and finding joy beyond a filled schedule. Valerie offers practical steps to help listeners embark on their own soft life journey, emphasizing that productivity isn't just about doing...2025-02-1112 minAging with Grace & StyleRedefining Fulfillment After 50: Start Today!Show Notes:Summary:Creating a fulfilling life after 50 is not just about being busy or productive; it's about finding deep satisfaction in the choices we make. Valerie delves into what fulfillment truly means and emphasizes the importance of redefining our goals to align with our personal values, especially as we age. She outlines the key pillars of a fulfilling life—purpose, connection, wellness, and growth—and shares practical steps to help listeners cultivate these areas in their daily routines. Through reflection and intentional actions, we can transform our lives, fostering deeper connections and embracing new expe...2025-01-2814 minAging with Grace & StyleFrom Doubt to Daring: Building Confidence in Your Next ChapterShow Notes:Summary:Midlife insecurity is more than just a feeling; it's an invitation to grow and transform. Valerie and her co-host dive deep into the common sources of insecurity that many face during this phase of life, including concerns about appearance, relevance, and life transitions. They discuss practical strategies to reframe negative thoughts and embrace change with curiosity rather than fear. By focusing on personal strengths and celebrating small wins, listeners can build confidence that grows stronger with each decision they make. Ultimately, this episode encourages everyone to recognize that every doubt faced is...2025-01-2112 minAging with Grace & StyleThe Gifts of Aging: Clarity, Freedom, and ResilienceShow Notes:Summary:Aging is not something to fear; it's a privilege to embrace. This podcast delves into the beauty of midlife and beyond, encouraging listeners to celebrate the gifts that come with aging, such as wisdom, clarity, and resilience. Host Valerie shares practical steps to help you own your age with pride, challenging societal myths that suggest aging means losing relevance or beauty. With a touch of sass, she invites you to reflect on your journey, celebrate your achievements, and surround yourself with positivity. Join Valerie as she inspires you to shine brightly in...2025-01-1410 minAging with Grace & StyleFinding Your Joy: Steps to Freedom After 50Show Notes:Summary:Freedom in midlife is about stepping back, reassessing what matters most, and creating space for joy and fulfillment. Valerie Hatcher explores the barriers that often hold us back, such as fear, guilt, and the weight of old expectations, and emphasizes the importance of intentional choices to reclaim our lives. This journey involves letting go of commitments that no longer serve us and embracing new opportunities that align with our true selves. Through practical steps like decluttering and setting micro-goals, listeners are encouraged to find small ways to cultivate freedom in their daily...2025-01-1414 minMindful Life Changes: Weekly Affirmations For Midlife80. Gratitude Practices for Midlife: Transforming Challenges into Blessings (Replay Ep.68)In this replay episode, we explore the transformative impact of gratitude on navigating midlife’s unique challenges. Whether you’re feeling stuck, stressed about family, or navigating personal transitions, gratitude can be a powerful tool to shift your perspective. Discover three practical ways to incorporate gratitude into your daily, weekly, and monthly routines, allowing you to cultivate a mindset that embraces life’s blessings, big and small. You’ll also be guided through a calming affirmation practice to anchor these gratitude habits, bringing a renewed sense of peace and resilience to your everyday life. If you’re...2024-11-2411 minMindful Life Changes: Weekly Affirmations For Midlife74. (Replay) 55. The Power of "I Am": Affirmations for Resilience and Empowerment in MidlifeIn this replay episode of Mindful Life Changes, we explore the power of “I Am” statements. Are you feeling overwhelmed by the challenges and changes of midlife? Do doubts and negative self-talk hold you back from fully embracing this transformative phase? In this episode, Valerie shares her personal experiences and insights on navigating midlife with grace and resilience. Discover the power of "I Am" affirmations to cultivate self-love, confidence, and a positive mindset.Tune in as she guides you through a mindfulness practice designed to help you overcome self-doubt, embrace change, and create a life...2024-10-1313 minMindful Life Changes: Weekly Affirmations For Midlife68. Gratitude Affirmations for Midlife: Transforming Challenges into Blessings Midlife comes with its unique set of challenges—whether you’re feeling stuck, stressed about an aging parent or child, or even navigating the end of a relationship. In this episode, we delve into the transformative power of gratitude and how it can reshape your perspective during life’s most difficult moments.You’ll learn about three practical ways to incorporate gratitude into your daily, weekly, and monthly routines, helping you to create a mindset that embraces the positive aspects of life, no matter how small they may seem. These practices are designed to be simple yet profound, providing...2024-09-0110 minMindful Life Changes: Weekly Affirmations For Midlife65. Stop Protecting Your Ego & Making Excuses: Affirmation for Positive Thinking In MidlifeAre excuses taking over your life and mindset? We dive into the concept of the ego and how it often uses excuses to protect us from stepping out of our comfort zones. Host Valerie Mekki explores why trying something new at midlife can be daunting and how self-doubt can hold us back from achieving true fulfillment. By understanding how the ego operates, you can learn to recognize and overcome the mental barriers that keep you from pursuing your passions.We flip the script on common excuses with empowering affirmations designed to...2024-08-1008 minMindful Life Changes: Weekly Affirmations For Midlife64. It’s Never Too Late To Start: Affirmation for Timing in MidlifeIt’s never too late to start something new, even in midlife. In this episode, we unpack the misconception about time. Host Valerie Mekki explores how to Reframe the perceptions about timing and age, replacing common excuses with powerful affirmations. Whether you’re considering a new career, becoming an empty nester, or finally tackling that passion project, this episode offers the motivation and tools to take the first step towards your next venture. Tune in to discover how to harness your life experiences and knowledge to propel you forward, proving that the best time to st...2024-08-0411 minMindful Life Changes: Weekly Affirmations For Midlife60. Healing Affirmation: Accepting and Embracing Midlife Body Changes with CompassionFeeling down or frustrated by the changes happening in your body, especially the bloating? The more pronounced this area becomes, the more it seems to negatively impact our emotional well-being. In this episode of Mindful Life Changes, host Valerie Mekki explores the link between perimenopause, menopause, and the emotional and physical experience of bloating. Learn how hormonal shifts affect your body and mood, and discover a healing affirmation practice to cultivate self-compassion and acceptance during this transformative stage of life.Formerly known as the "Mindful Career Change Podcast," I decided to broaden our...2024-07-0712 minMindful Life Changes: Weekly Affirmations For Midlife59. Coping With Midlife Stress and Challenges: Motivating Affirmation: I Have The Power...Feeling overwhelmed and stressed by the challenges of midlife? In this episode of Mindful Life Changes, host Valerie Mekki shares her personal experience with using movement as a powerful tool for stress relief, clarity, and focus. Learn how simple physical activity can transform your emotional well-being and discover practical strategies for incorporating movement into your daily life to navigate the ups and downs of this transformative stage. Plus, a motivating affirmation to help shift you into action; from feeling stuck to feeling energized and empowered.Formerly known as the "Mindful Career Change Podcast," I...2024-06-3012 minMindful Life Changes: Weekly Affirmations For Midlife58. Affirmation For Acceptance: “I accept and embrace the duality of my life...” Building Inner Strength & ResilienceNavigating the dualities of midlife can often feel overwhelming, but you don't have to simply ‘get by’ and hope the stress will disappear on its own. In this episode of the Mindful Life Changes podcast, host Valerie Mekki explores the complexities of midlife and offers practical insights to help you thrive amidst the contrasts.Join Valerie as she introduces the A.C.E. method—Accept, Commit, and Exhale—a powerful three-step approach to finding balance and staying present. Learn how to embrace the full spectrum of your emotional experiences, build inner strength...2024-06-2310 minMindful Life Changes: Weekly Affirmations For Midlife55. The Power of "I Am": Affirmations for Resilience and Empowerment in MidlifeOn this first anniversary of the Mindful Life Changes podcast, host Valerie Mekki delves into the power of our words. Are you feeling overwhelmed by the challenges and changes of midlife? Do doubts and negative self-talk hold you back from fully embracing this transformative phase? In this episode, Valerie shares her personal experiences and insights on navigating midlife with grace and resilience. Discover the power of "I Am" affirmations to cultivate self-love, confidence, and a positive mindset.Tune in as she guides you through a mindfulness practice designed to help you...2024-06-0211 minAging with Grace & StyleFinding Calm in the Chaos: Emotional Health for Women Over 50Show Notes:Summary:In this episode, Valerie Hatcher discusses the importance of mental wellness after 50 and provides strategies for handling emotional overwhelm. Valerie talks about the array of emotions one may feel during midlife, such as anxiety, grief, and a sense of lost purpose, emphasizing that experiencing these emotions is normal. Throughout the episode, listeners are encouraged to embrace their emotions, find ways to cope, and lean on community and self-care.Timestamps:00:01 Intro to Mental Wellness After 50 & Emotions in this Life Stage01:51 Contemplating Mortality and Time03:04 Adjusting...2024-04-2312 minMindful Life Changes: Weekly Affirmations For Midlife44. Positive Affirmation: “I Am Capable of Letting Go”— Navigating The Busyness of MidlifeWhat do we truly need when there never seems to be enough hours in the day? Through insightful questions and revelations, we unpack and explore the way we use our time and how there are more resources available to us than we think. In this episode of the Mindful LIfe Changes podcast, host Valerie Mekki introduces three pivotal questions aimed at shifting our perspective from seeking more time to embracing convenience, grace, and the power of delegation. This episode is a call to action for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the demands of daily life, offering a path to a...2024-03-1713 minMindful Life Changes: Weekly Affirmations For Midlife43. Affirmation for Movement: “I Am Built To Thrive”— Overcoming Midlife Stresses with MovementDive into a journey of empowerment and resilience in this inspiring episode of the Mindful Life Changes podcast, where we uncover the transformative benefits of movement and exercise on our mental well-being. Join host, Valerie Mekki, your guide through the trials and victories of midlife. She shares how embracing physical activity can be the key to managing life's stresses, conquering self-doubt, and unlocking an inner strength you may have never known you had. With insights from neuroscience and personal anecdotes, Valerie illuminates the path to a more resilient and confident self, proving that we...2024-03-1012 minMindful Life Changes: Weekly Affirmations For Midlife42. Gratitude Affirmation: “I Am Deeply Grateful for My Body”— Navigating Midlife Changes and StressesFeeling disconnected or falling out of love with your body? We explore the transformative power of body gratitude, especially as we navigate the complexities of midlife. Join host, Valerie Mekki, a career change guide and mindfulness enthusiast, and delve deep into how our relationships with our bodies may feel distant as we age, however, there are simple ways to appreciate and love your body again.Valerie discusses practical ways to cultivate body gratitude daily, from the first breath of the morning to the last thought at night, and how this practice can shift our...2024-03-0312 minMindful Life Changes: Weekly Affirmations For Midlife41. Mirror Talk: Discovering Self-Love with Positive Affirmations for MidlifeUncover the power of self-love with mirror work for those over 40. In this affirmation episode, host Valerie Mekki, a career change guide and mindfulness enthusiast, takes you on a transformative journey of middle-age self-discovery. We dive into the profound practice of mirror work, a technique popularized by the notable author and publisher Louise Hay. Valerie shares her personal experience of this 21-day practice that can also help you strengthen your self-confidence, diminish self-doubt, and solidify your commitment to personal and professional growth. Whether you're navigating a career transition, embarking on new midlife ventures, or simply seeking to d...2024-02-2511 minMindful Life Changes: Weekly Affirmations For Midlife40. Navigating Midlife Changes: “I am Capable of Stretching with Life’s Demands" AffirmationIn this first official episode of the Mindful Life Changes podcast (formerly known as the Mindful Career Change), host Valerie Mekki, a career change guide and mindfulness enthusiast, delves deep into the art of thriving during mid-life's unique challenges. Turning 45 herself, Valerie introduces the concept of the 'Rubber Band Era'—a time when individuals are stretched by responsibilities yet possess the remarkable ability to bounce back with resilience and wisdom. Discover how to navigate the complexities of caregiving, career shifts, and personal transformations with grace, leveraging your life experiences as a source of strength.Dive into actionable str...2024-02-1814 minAging with Grace & StyleMidlife Isn't a Crisis, It's a Calling: Uncover Your Passion in Act Two of LifeShow Notes:Summary:Valerie discusses the concept of midlife as a calling rather than a crisis in this episode of Five to Thrive. She shares personal stories of individuals who have embraced their midlife calling and offers actionable steps to shift from crisis to calling. Valerie emphasizes the importance of reflection, embracing change, surrounding oneself with a supportive community, focusing on what matters, and staying curious. She encourages listeners to see midlife as an opportunity for personal growth and fulfillment.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction and overview of the episode topic00:58 Midlife...2023-10-1718 min
Training AgeMidlife Revelations with Karen JacksonEver wondered how a change of perspective can redefine your approach to health, fitness, and aging gracefully? That's precisely what we explore with our special guest, Karen Jackson (Instagram @midlife_revelations). Listen in as we discuss how our fitness journeys are about more than physical transformation; they're about shifting mindsets and adopting consistent habits.Our conversation takes a turn towards breaking down misconceptions about diet and nutrition. We shed light on how it's not about shrinking, but becoming stronger, healthier, and more resilient. Karen weighs in on the importance of patience, persistence, and getting back on track...2023-10-0641 min
Mindful Life Changes: Weekly Affirmations For Midlife9. Midlife: My Age Is An Asset Not A LimitationBreak free from limitations about your age and unlock your full career potential in this episode of Mindful Life Changes (Formerly knowns as the Mindful Career Change) Podcast. Host Valerie Mekki shares her personal experience of overcoming age-related doubts and successfully transitioning careers in her 40s. She introduces the concept of crystalized intelligence, which refers to the wisdom and expertise accumulated over time, and explains how it can be leveraged to achieve long-term success in your new career. In addition, you’ll learn about another type of intelligence called fluid intelligence that we all have access to, as...2023-07-1609 min