Redefining Midlife with Jo Clark

In this first episode of the year, I reflect on the podcast's journey and share my simple yet powerful process for setting intentions and embracing growth as we step into a new chapter. Whether you’re new here or a long-time listener, this episode is packed with insights to help midlife women feel empowered, supported, and ready to redefine what’s possible. In this episode, you’ll hear about: My personal journey of overcoming fear to launch the podcast and its incredible growth (now in the top 5% globally!). A simple, five-step process to review your past year, including: Reflecting on highs, lows, and lessons. Celebrating wins—big and small. Learning from challenges and setting a clear path forward. Choosing a "guiding word" for the year, with examples like "abundance" and "ease." Why starting now—imperfectly—is the key to achieving your goals. The power of community, connection, and support in midlife transformation. Ready to make 2025 your year of growth and transformation? Visit www.joclarkcoaching.com to explore how I support midlife women in achieving their dreams with coaching and mentorship. If this episode resonated with you, please follow, rate, and share it with a friend—it’s the best way to grow this empowering community. You can also find me on Instagram -⁠ https://www.instagram.com/joclarkcoaching/⁠ and LinkedIn -⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/joclarkcoaching/⁠ The Full Five Steps to Reflect and Set Intentions for the New Year 1. Reflect month by monthTake a look back at the past year, month by month, using tools like your calendar, diary, or photo gallery to jog your memory. This process helps you uncover forgotten moments, both big and small, that shaped your year. Examples: A coffee date with an old friend. Completing a long-awaited project. A walk in nature that cleared your mind. 2. Celebrate your winsPause to honour your achievements, big or small, and recognise moments where you showed up for yourself or others. Examples: Setting boundaries in a problematic relationship. Staying consistent with a self-care routine. Finding joy in everyday moments, like family laughter or a quiet morning coffee. 3. Reflect on challengesIdentify the challenging moments you faced and the lessons they taught you. This isn’t about dwelling on the negatives but recognising how those experiences helped you grow. Examples: Navigating a health challenge and learning to prioritise rest. Saying no to draining commitments. Discovering your resilience during a difficult situation. 4. What would you do differently?Think about moments where you could have approached situations differently. This isn’t about regret but gaining clarity for the future. Examples: Responding to frustration with patience instead of anger. Overcoming self-doubt to seize an opportunity. Being more proactive in addressing a challenge. 5. Choose a guiding word for the yearSelect a single word to act as your anchor or compass for the year ahead. This word should represent what you want to embody or focus on. Examples: Abundance—seeing richness in everyday life. Ease—embracing simplicity and calm. Growth—focusing on personal and professional development. Following these steps will give you clarity and direction for the new year, ensuring you move forward with intention and purpose. Here’s to redefining midlife and making our next half of life even better than the first. 

Midlife presents a unique set of health challenges for women. In this episode of Redefining Midlife, I’m joined by Dr Sian Hebron, a leading women’s health doctor, to unpack essential topics like menopause, cardiovascular health, osteoporosis, and weight management. Dr Hebron’s practical insights and the latest research will inspire you to take charge of your health and step confidently into this next phase of life. Hear more about: Hormonal Shifts in Midlife. Learn how the drop in estrogen during menopause affects weight distribution, insulin resistance, and overall health. Cardiovascular Health Matters. Heart disease affects 40% of women. Discover why hormone therapy and early symptom recognition are game-changers. Protecting Bone Health. Dr. Hebron shares tips for managing osteoporosis and explains how bone-strengthening exercises and hormone therapy can help. Weight Management Myths. Understand why traditional weight-loss methods may not work in midlife and the importance of holistic, professional support. The Role of Testosterone. Emerging evidence suggests testosterone could improve well-being and desire in women. This episode invites you to take a proactive approach to your health. Whether you’re addressing weight changes, safeguarding your heart, or strengthening your bones, small steps today can lead to significant improvements tomorrow. Listen now to feel empowered with knowledge and ready to thrive in midlife. To find out more about Sian you can follow the links below. https://www.themenopauseconnection.com.au/#about%20me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/menopausedrsian/  Jean Hailes: https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/ Australian Menopause Society: https://www.menopause.org.au/ Link to AMS doctors - https://www.menopause.org.au/health-info/find-an-ams-doctor You can also find me on Instagram -⁠ https://www.instagram.com/joclarkcoaching/⁠ and LinkedIn -⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/joclarkcoaching/⁠ Here’s to redefining midlife and making our next half of life even better than the first. 

Neurodivergence in women often goes unrecognised, especially during midlife, a stage filled with transitions that can bring these differences into sharper focus. In the third episode in our series, I sit down with Dr. Sascha Kowalenko to explore how neurodivergence, including ADHD and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), uniquely manifests in women. Dr. Kowalenko shares her professional expertise and deeply personal story, offering listeners a compassionate lens to better understand themselves or the women they support. Tune in to hear about: What is Neurodivergence? A natural difference in brain structure and functioning that affects how individuals process the world around them. Historical Roots: The term neurodivergence originated in Australia, thanks to Judy Singer, who reframed these differences as variations rather than deficits. Gender Bias in Diagnosis: Diagnostic criteria often focus on male presentations, leading to the underdiagnosis of women, who tend to mask symptoms due to societal pressures. Midlife as a Turning Point: Hormonal changes in perimenopause can intensify neurodivergent traits, prompting many women to seek formal diagnoses or reassess their experiences. Personal Journey: Dr. Kowalenko candidly shares her experience of identifying with ASD later in life, highlighting the internalised and hidden nature of these traits in women. Challenges and Vulnerabilities: Neurodivergent women are at higher risk of social isolation and trauma, underscoring the need for awareness and tailored support. The Role of Acceptance: Dr. Kowalenko emphasises the importance of self-understanding and societal empathy in empowering neurodivergent women. Support Strategies: Curiosity, kindness, and validation go a long way in supporting neurodivergent loved ones. This episode is a powerful reminder that understanding neurodivergence isn’t just about awareness; it’s about celebrating and supporting the incredible diversity of experiences in women, particularly during midlife. To find out more about Sascha visit her Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/dr.sascha.k/ or email her at [email protected]. Links to recommended articles below: Autistic Women and Violence: A Threat to Our Safety - More Than Quirky: https://www.morethanquirky.com.au/autistic-women-and-violence/ Why are so many neurodivergent women misdiagnosed?: https://psychology.org.au/insights/why-are-so-many-neurodivergent-women-misdiagnosed ADHD and Menopause: Changing Symptoms and Treatments: https://www.healthline.com/health/menopause/adhd-and-menopause Autism, Menstruation and Menopause: https://www.attwoodandgarnettevents.com/blogs/news/autism-menstruation-and-menopause Yellow Ladybugs: https://www.yellowladybugs.com.au/ You can also find me on Instagram -⁠ https://www.instagram.com/joclarkcoaching/⁠ and LinkedIn -⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/joclarkcoaching/⁠ Here’s to redefining midlife and making our next half of life even better than the first.

In this episode, we meet Roslyn Thompson, a woman who redefined her life after a challenging crossroads. From corporate overwhelm to the clarity of living her true purpose, Roslyn's inspiring story is a reminder that midlife can be a time of transformation, growth, and stepping fully into your power. Tune in to hear about: Roslyn’s journey from a high-pressure corporate career to the discovery of her true calling. How losing her job triggered a period of deep anxiety—and how she turned it into an opportunity for reinvention. The pivotal moment she realised her voice mattered and how she embraced her purpose as a mindset coach. Practical advice for overcoming self-doubt, especially for heart-led entrepreneurs. Strategies for creating a business and life you genuinely love. Roslyn’s story is proof that no matter where you are in life, it’s never too late to rewrite your narrative and step into a version of yourself you’re proud of. If you’re ready to leave self-doubt behind and embrace a more fulfilling path, I invite you to follow Rosyln on the links below. https://www.cheerfuldaysco.au  https://www.cheerfuldaysco.au/yoursoulalignedbizcompass (5 Week Online Coaching Experience) https://www.instagram.com/cheerfuldaysco https://www.facebook.com/cheerfuldaysco https://www.linkedin.com/in/roslyn-thompson You can also find me on Instagram -⁠ https://www.instagram.com/joclarkcoaching/⁠ and LinkedIn -⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/joclarkcoaching/⁠ Here’s to redefining midlife and making our next half of life even better than the first.