Episodios

  • Rediscovering Health and Joy through Homesteading in Midlife with Elizabeth Bruckner
    Jul 1 2025

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    In this episode of the Midlife with Courage podcast, Kim interviews Elizabeth Bruckner, an acupuncturist, author, and homesteader from Southern California.

    Elizabeth shares her journey from chronic illness to becoming an 'accidental homesteader,' emphasizing the importance of making small, sustainable changes for a healthier lifestyle. They discuss her transition away from processed foods, tips for easy home cooking, and the benefits of fermentation and traditional food preservation methods.

    Elizabeth also provides practical advice for anyone interested in starting their homesteading journey, regardless of space or budget.

    Tune in for an inspiring conversation on finding courage and joy through self-sufficiency and natural living.

    00:00 Welcome to Midlife with Courage
    00:22 Meet Elizabeth Bruckner: Acupuncturist and Author
    00:54 Elizabeth's Journey to Homesteading
    02:48 Overcoming Chronic Illness
    07:47 Discovering the Benefits of Fermentation
    08:10 The Start of Homesteading During the Pandemic
    09:24 Understanding Modern Homesteading
    15:04 Practical Tips for Homesteading and Cooking
    17:55 The Importance of Meat Stock
    21:59 Growing Your Own Herbs and Vegetables
    22:24 Debunking Gardening Myths
    22:59 Garden Herbal Infusion Tips
    23:16 Choosing Herbs for Your Window Sill
    24:46 Community Gardening and Reverse Engineering
    27:09 Homesteading Mindset and Joyful Daydreaming
    32:43 The Power of Fermentation
    38:20 Creating Positive Change with Small Steps
    39:52 Final Thoughts and Free Gift

    Make sure you go to www.createwellnessproject.com/gift for your free habit tracker that Elizabeth talked about in this episode.

    Get your free ebook called Daily Habits for Hormonal Harmony by going to my website. This free guide will help you balance your hormones through some easy daily activities.

    Just add your email to the popup and your guide will be on its way to your inbox.

    From morning until bedtime, you can help yourself feel better!


    Support the show

    Kim Benoy is a retired RN, Certified Aromatherapist, wife and mom who is passionate about inspiring and encouraging women over 40. She wants you to see your own beauty, value and worth through sharing stories of other women just like you.


    Want to be a guest on Midlife with Courage™-Flourishing After Forty with Kim Benoy? Send Kim Benoy a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1646938231742x613487048806393700

    Would you like to get a "sneak" listen to each podcast? Subscribe to my website to get my weekly inspirational message and a link to that week's podcast a day ahead of everyone else! Just click the link below to get on the list!

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    42 m
  • Balancing Hormones and Midlife Skincare with Ana Pang
    Jun 24 2025

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    In this episode of Midlife with Courage, host Kim welcomes Ana Pang, a menopause skin and vitality specialist, to discuss her journey and expertise in hormonal balance and natural skincare.

    Ana shares her personal story of dealing with eczema and disrupted menstrual cycles in her mid-40s, which led her to research and focus on hormonal balance. She emphasizes the importance of listening to one's body, using natural ingredients for skin care, and maintaining hydration for vitality.

    Ana also talks about her recent clinical research on holistic skincare and the significance of magnesium for women's health during midlife.

    00:00 Introduction and Personal Journey
    00:41 Welcome to Midlife with Courage
    01:13 Meet Ana Pang: Menopause Skin and Vitality Specialist
    01:32 Ana's Story: From China to Sweden
    01:50 Hormonal Balance and Health
    02:36 The Eczema Incident
    03:43 Discovering the Importance of Hormonal Balance
    05:57 Early Influences and TCM
    08:08 Lifestyle Changes for Hormonal Balance
    13:15 The Role of Hormonal Testing
    20:30 Skin Care Tips for Midlife Women
    25:56 The Importance of Magnesium
    33:10 Final Thoughts and Farewell

    Learn more about Ana and how she helps you balance hormones by going to her Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ana.pang.218.


    Get your free ebook called Daily Habits for Hormonal Harmony by going to my website. This free guide will help you balance your hormones through some easy daily activities.

    Just add your email to the popup and your guide will be on its way to your inbox.

    From morning until bedtime, you can help yourself feel better!


    Support the show

    Kim Benoy is a retired RN, Certified Aromatherapist, wife and mom who is passionate about inspiring and encouraging women over 40. She wants you to see your own beauty, value and worth through sharing stories of other women just like you.


    Want to be a guest on Midlife with Courage™-Flourishing After Forty with Kim Benoy? Send Kim Benoy a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1646938231742x613487048806393700

    Would you like to get a "sneak" listen to each podcast? Subscribe to my website to get my weekly inspirational message and a link to that week's podcast a day ahead of everyone else! Just click the link below to get on the list!

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    35 m
  • Facing Fear and Building Courage: A Conversation with Rhonda Britten
    Jun 17 2025

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    Trigger alert: this episode includes discussion about a murder-suicide event which could be traumatic for some listeners.

    In this episode of the Midlife With Courage™ podcast, host Kim sits down with life coach Rhonda Britten to discuss the pivotal role of fear in our lives and how to overcome it.

    Rhonda, who has a compelling personal story of witnessing a tragic family event, shares her journey from trauma and alcoholism to becoming a master life coach. She highlights the importance of understanding fear, making daily courageous choices, and taking small steps like acknowledging personal preferences to transform one’s life.

    Rhonda emphasizes that many of our negative behaviors are fear responses and provides practical advice on how to reframe these behaviors to foster personal growth. Tune in to learn more about Rhonda's transformative work and gain valuable insights on living a courageous midlife.

    00:00 Introduction to Midlife With Courage
    00:17 Meet Rhonda Britten: Life Coach and Author
    00:48 Rhonda's Journey: Discovering Fear and Courage
    03:19 The Dark Night of the Soul
    05:26 Transformative Choices and Daily Courage
    15:24 Embracing Feelings and Personal Growth
    22:36 Daily Choices and Self-Reflection
    23:16 Gold Stars and Small Wins
    24:50 Midlife Realizations and Life Coaching
    26:23 Understanding and Overcoming Fear
    29:07 The Language of Fear
    30:03 Fear Responses and Self-Compassion
    32:48 Fearless Living Resources
    35:52 Sharing Personal Stories
    38:30 Living a Life Without Regrets
    39:28 Final Thoughts and Mantra

    Rhonda continues to help anyone who is ready to live without fear by offering a free course called Stretch, Risk or Die and you can access it HERE. This is a short course of 3 short videos that will help you get more confidence and results.

    You can go to www.fearlessliving.org for more information and details about all that Rhonda has for you.

    Get your free ebook called Daily Habits for Hormonal Harmony by going to my website. This free guide will help you balance your hormones through some easy daily activities.

    Just add your email to the popup and your guide will be on its way to your inbox.

    From morning until bedtime, you can help yourself feel better!


    Support the show

    Kim Benoy is a retired RN, Certified Aromatherapist, wife and mom who is passionate about inspiring and encouraging women over 40. She wants you to see your own beauty, value and worth through sharing stories of other women just like you.


    Want to be a guest on Midlife with Courage™-Flourishing After Forty with Kim Benoy? Send Kim Benoy a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1646938231742x613487048806393700

    Would you like to get a "sneak" listen to each podcast? Subscribe to my website to get my weekly inspirational message and a link to that week's podcast a day ahead of everyone else! Just click the link below to get on the list!

    SUBSCRIBE

    WEBSITE

    FACEBOOK


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    41 m
  • Midlife Ventures: From Pharmacy to Functional Medicine with Heather Cracauer
    Jun 10 2025

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    Please note: the discussion in this episode is not meant to be used as medical advice. Always see your healthcare provider when considering any changes to your healthcare regimen.

    In this episode of the Midlife with Courage™ podcast, Kim talks with Heather Cracauer, a trained pharmacist who now owns two businesses: a functional medicine consulting service and a full-service travel agency.

    Heather shares her personal journey from traditional pharmacy to functional medicine, driven by her own health challenges including long Covid. The discussion delves into the roots of Alzheimer's disease, its preventable factors, and how functional medicine can be used for overall health improvement.

    Heather also discusses her transition into wellness travel and the importance of a holistic approach to health. Listeners gain insights into the benefits of functional medicine, preventive measures for Alzheimer's, and practical advice for starting a new business.

    00:00 Understanding Alzheimer's and Its Causes
    00:47 Welcome to Midlife with Courage Podcast
    01:05 Meet Heather Cracauer: Pharmacist Turned Entrepreneur
    02:46 Heather's Journey into Functional Medicine
    08:27 The Role of Functional Medicine in Healing
    13:06 Starting a Functional Medicine Consulting Business
    16:00 Navigating the Challenges of a New Business
    17:49 Balancing Business and Family Life
    18:02 The Journey into Cruise Planning
    19:06 The Benefits of Wellness Travel
    20:34 Returning to Functional Medicine
    21:02 Understanding Alzheimer's Prevention
    21:47 Dr. Bredesen's Approach to Alzheimer's
    24:34 Preventing Alzheimer's Through Lifestyle Changes
    29:33 Functional Medicine in Everyday Life
    32:11 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

    To learn more about Heather's functional medicine practice go to her WEBSITE.

    The doctor that Heather mentioned in this episode who works with Alzheimer's treatments is Dr. Dale Bredesen.


    Get your free ebook called Daily Habits for Hormonal Harmony by going to my website. This free guide will help you balance your hormones through some easy daily activities.

    Just add your email to the popup and your guide will be on its way to your inbox.

    From morning until bedtime, you can help yourself feel better!


    Support the show

    Kim Benoy is a retired RN, Certified Aromatherapist, wife and mom who is passionate about inspiring and encouraging women over 40. She wants you to see your own beauty, value and worth through sharing stories of other women just like you.


    Want to be a guest on Midlife with Courage™-Flourishing After Forty with Kim Benoy? Send Kim Benoy a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1646938231742x613487048806393700

    Would you like to get a "sneak" listen to each podcast? Subscribe to my website to get my weekly inspirational message and a link to that week's podcast a day ahead of everyone else! Just click the link below to get on the list!

    SUBSCRIBE

    WEBSITE

    FACEBOOK


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    34 m
  • Strength in Softness: Embracing Creativity and Courage in Midlife with Jodi Rose Gonzales
    Jun 3 2025

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    In this episode of the Midlife With Courage podcast, Kim welcomes visual artist and art therapist Jodi Rose Gonzalez.

    Jodi shares her journey from being a successful jewelry designer to becoming an art therapist, yoga teacher, and mindfulness expert. They discuss the concept of courage, redefining it as a blend of strength and softness, and the importance of aligning the inner and outer self.

    Jodi also delves into how creative practices can help manage anxiety, stress, and personal development. She highlights practical ways to incorporate art-based mindfulness into daily life and encourages listeners to explore their creativity as a means to achieve a more peaceful and fulfilling midlife.

    00:00 Introduction and Personal Background
    00:38 Welcome to Midlife with Courage
    00:53 Meet Jodi Rose Gonzales
    01:34 Defining Courage in Midlife
    02:17 The Journey of Self-Discovery
    04:19 Yoga and Mindfulness in Creative Practice
    07:53 Overcoming Limiting Beliefs
    09:42 Embracing Creativity
    14:57 The Hot Air Balloon of Courage
    18:44 Exploring the Power of Intention
    19:27 Hot Air Balloon Festival Adventures
    19:59 Helping Women and Teens Through Art-Based Mindfulness
    21:16 The Benefits of Creative Activities for Stress Relief
    25:00 Using Creativity to Navigate Life Transitions
    29:09 Simple and Fun Creative Practices
    31:18 Connecting with Jodi Rose Studio
    34:01 Embracing Midlife with Courage
    36:25 Conclusion and Farewell

    If you would like to know more about Jodi and how she can help you, go to her website at www.jodirosestudio.com.

    Get your free ebook called Daily Habits for Hormonal Harmony by going to my website. This free guide will help you balance your hormones through some easy daily activities.

    Just add your email to the popup and your guide will be on its way to your inbox.

    From morning until bedtime, you can help yourself feel better!


    Support the show

    Kim Benoy is a retired RN, Certified Aromatherapist, wife and mom who is passionate about inspiring and encouraging women over 40. She wants you to see your own beauty, value and worth through sharing stories of other women just like you.


    Want to be a guest on Midlife with Courage™-Flourishing After Forty with Kim Benoy? Send Kim Benoy a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1646938231742x613487048806393700

    Would you like to get a "sneak" listen to each podcast? Subscribe to my website to get my weekly inspirational message and a link to that week's podcast a day ahead of everyone else! Just click the link below to get on the list!

    SUBSCRIBE

    WEBSITE

    FACEBOOK


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    37 m
  • Unpacking Perfectionism in Midlife: A Conversation with Dr. Tara Cousineau
    May 27 2025

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    In this episode of Midlife with Courage, Kim interviews Dr. Tara Cousineau, a clinical psychologist based in Massachusetts. Dr. Cousineau discusses the origins and effects of perfectionism, offering insights into how it often serves as a protective mechanism rooted in our past experiences.

    The conversation covers the impact of inner critical voices, how they manifest in different archetypes, and the importance of self-compassion in addressing these issues.

    Dr. Cousineau also shares personal anecdotes and highlights from her workshops and recent book, 'The Perfectionist Dilemma.' The episode aims to inspire and educate women in midlife on how to manage perfectionism and embrace self-compassion.

    • 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
    • 00:56 Meet Dr. Tara Cousineau
    • 01:42 Defining Courage
    • 03:46 Understanding Perfectionism
    • 06:01 The Inner Critic and Self-Compassion
    • 10:01 Perfectionism as Protection
    • 12:16 Personal Experiences and Midlife Challenges
    • 15:20 Working with Women Across Ages
    • 16:21 Midlife Career Changes and Perfectionism
    • 16:47 The Awakening in Midlife
    • 17:43 Societal Standards and Self-Worth
    • 19:29 Inner Critical Voices and Self-Doubt
    • 21:49 Energy Medicine and Higher Self
    • 23:32 Introducing 'The Perfectionist Dilemma'
    • 25:19 Where to Find More Resources
    • 26:38 Practicing Self-Compassion
    • 28:23 Final Thoughts and Farewell

    Get your free ebook called Daily Habits for Hormonal Harmony by going to my website. This free guide will help you balance your hormones through some easy daily activities.

    Just add your email to the popup and your guide will be on its way to your inbox.

    From morning until bedtime, you can help yourself feel better!


    Support the show

    Kim Benoy is a retired RN, Certified Aromatherapist, wife and mom who is passionate about inspiring and encouraging women over 40. She wants you to see your own beauty, value and worth through sharing stories of other women just like you.


    Want to be a guest on Midlife with Courage™-Flourishing After Forty with Kim Benoy? Send Kim Benoy a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1646938231742x613487048806393700

    Would you like to get a "sneak" listen to each podcast? Subscribe to my website to get my weekly inspirational message and a link to that week's podcast a day ahead of everyone else! Just click the link below to get on the list!

    SUBSCRIBE

    WEBSITE

    FACEBOOK


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    31 m
  • Midlife Money Mindsets and Money Fog with Mikelann Valterra
    May 20 2025

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    In this episode of Midlife with Courage, host Kim welcomes Mikelann Valterra, a seasoned money coach, to discuss the intricate relationship between our emotions and financial habits.

    Mikelann shares insights into how childhood experiences shape our money mindset and behaviors, highlighting the concept of 'money fog,' which encompasses the stress and anxiety caused by financial vagueness. Throughout the conversation, they explore the importance of financial clarity, the psychological aspects of money management, and strategies for overcoming underearning.

    Mikelann also shares her personal journey with Argentine tango and her transition to money coaching, offering practical advice for women in midlife. Listeners will gain valuable knowledge on integrating emotional understanding with practical financial management to foster a healthier relationship with money.

    00:00 Introduction and Early Money Lessons

    00:36 Welcome to Midlife with Courage

    00:57 Meet Mikelann Valterra

    01:07 Diving into Money Coaching

    02:29 The Courage to Dance

    05:25 The Journey to Money Coaching

    08:55 Understanding Emotional Money

    13:14 Gender and Money Conversations

    16:03 Exploring the Conflict Between Service and Profit

    16:36 Understanding Underearning

    18:26 Navigating Financial Transitions in Midlife

    20:04 The Practical and Emotional Sides of Money Coaching

    21:52 Identifying and Overcoming the Money Fog

    25:31 The Power of Money Mindset

    27:53 Couples and Money: Finding Common Ground

    30:00 Resources and Final Thoughts

    If you would like to learn more about the emotional side of money, money fog or get her book Rise Above the Money Fog, go to Mikelann's website: https://www.seattlemoneycoach.com/free-resources/


    Get your free ebook called Daily Habits for Hormonal Harmony by going to my website. This free guide will help you balance your hormones through some easy daily activities.

    Just add your email to the popup and your guide will be on its way to your inbox.

    From morning until bedtime, you can help yourself feel better!


    Support the show

    Kim Benoy is a retired RN, Certified Aromatherapist, wife and mom who is passionate about inspiring and encouraging women over 40. She wants you to see your own beauty, value and worth through sharing stories of other women just like you.


    Want to be a guest on Midlife with Courage™-Flourishing After Forty with Kim Benoy? Send Kim Benoy a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1646938231742x613487048806393700

    Would you like to get a "sneak" listen to each podcast? Subscribe to my website to get my weekly inspirational message and a link to that week's podcast a day ahead of everyone else! Just click the link below to get on the list!

    SUBSCRIBE

    WEBSITE

    FACEBOOK


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    34 m
  • Courage, Rockstars and Magic in Midlife: A Conversation with Kimmie Sue Hall
    May 13 2025

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    In this episode of the 'Midlife with Courage' podcast, host Kim welcomes the magical Kimmie Sue Hall.

    They discuss Kimmie Sue's life in Orlando, Florida, her courageous journey helping a friend overcome alcoholism, her retirement from a 30-year career with Disney, and the personal trials faced when her son battled cancer. She also shares some glimpses into her role as the wife of a rockstar and how the unexpected end of REO Speedwagon changed how she saw her future playing out.

    The episode highlights themes of courage, family, and authenticity while sharing inspiring anecdotes about making dreams come true at Disney and providing support during challenging times.

    Kimmie Sue also shares plans for a meaningful upcoming concert and her son's involvement in cancer awareness and support.

    00:00 Introduction to Midlife with Courage

    00:21 Meet Kimmie Sue Hall

    01:29 A Courageous Conversation

    04:46 Kimmie Sue's Magical Career at Disney

    12:49 Tommy's Battle with Cancer

    17:58 Facing the Unthinkable: A Mother's Strength

    18:44 Raising Awareness: Testicular Cancer

    19:38 Miracles and Mentorship

    20:18 Foundations and Family Support

    23:42 A New Chapter: College and Music

    26:02 A Farewell Concert for a Cause

    33:11 Final Thoughts and Messages

    "Courage is a very contagious thing." Dr. Philippe Spiess of Moffitt Cancer Center in Tampa Florida.

    If you would like to support the Moffitt Cancer Center through a donation, please go to this link: https://fundraise.moffitt.org/campaign/651751/donate


    Get your free ebook called Daily Habits for Hormonal Harmony by going to my website. This free guide will help you balance your hormones through some easy daily activities.

    Just add your email to the popup and your guide will be on its way to your inbox.

    From morning until bedtime, you can help yourself feel better!


    Support the show

    Kim Benoy is a retired RN, Certified Aromatherapist, wife and mom who is passionate about inspiring and encouraging women over 40. She wants you to see your own beauty, value and worth through sharing stories of other women just like you.


    Want to be a guest on Midlife with Courage™-Flourishing After Forty with Kim Benoy? Send Kim Benoy a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/1646938231742x613487048806393700

    Would you like to get a "sneak" listen to each podcast? Subscribe to my website to get my weekly inspirational message and a link to that week's podcast a day ahead of everyone else! Just click the link below to get on the list!

    SUBSCRIBE

    WEBSITE

    FACEBOOK


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    36 m