Forever35 Podcast
Mini-Episode 422: Midlife Pivots Galore
Release Date: December 4, 2024

Hosts: Doree Shafrir & Elise Hu

Introduction

In this special mini-episode of Forever35, co-hosts Doree Shafrir and Elise Hu delve into listener contributions, sharing personal stories, answering questions, and exploring midlife pivots with their characteristic humor and warmth. This episode, titled "Midlife Pivots Galore," offers a rich tapestry of experiences that resonate with anyone navigating the complexities of self-care and personal growth in midlife.

Thanksgiving Tales

Family Visits and Holiday Feasts

Doree shares her experience of hosting her parents for Thanksgiving, highlighting both the joys and challenges of having extended family in a smaller home.

• Doree Shafrir [06:29]: "My parents visit was lovely and I'm really glad that they came, but it's also like, exhausting to have two people in your house. Your, like, not so big house. But it was mostly fine."

She particularly appreciates the bond between her parents and her son, Henry, noting their sweet interactions.

• Doree Shafrir [06:56]: "They have a very, like, sweet relationship with him, and that was really nice. Especially my mom, who can, like, really engage with him."

Elise adds her perspective on the Thanksgiving buffet, emphasizing the communal joy of shared foods like crab legs.

• Elise Hu [07:24]: "I have not tried the Trader Joe's hair oil, but I will say that I do love the serum."

The hosts discuss their family dynamics and the whirlwind of the holiday season, touching on preparations for the upcoming school term.

Shoulder Mishaps

Elise's Unexpected Injury

Elise recounts a painful incident during Pilates where she dislocated her shoulder for the third time. Her narrative is both vivid and humorous, showcasing her resilience.

• Elise Hu [03:00]: "The first time, it was blinding pain. And I was on the coast of Ireland overlooking the Atlantic Ocean at a medieval fort."

She describes the dramatic scene in her Pilates class and the swift assistance from her friend, Dr. Jen.

• Elise Hu [04:42]: "She was like, where are you? I can get to you. But somehow, as we're on the phone, it, like, went back and thank God..."

Despite the pain, Elise maintains a light-hearted tone, mentioning her upcoming appointment with an orthopedic surgeon.

• Elise Hu [05:29]: "It's like a leopard colony over here. Yeah, it's a whole situation."

Doree empathizes with Elise's ordeal, emphasizing the importance of professional medical advice.

• Doree Shafrir [23:19]: "Consult a professional."

Listener Stories and Experiences

1. Free Eating on the Train

A listener named Katie from Massachusetts shares her discomfort with an individual eating openly on the commuter rail.

• Listener [10:11]: "Someone is literally free bowling on the train... I can hear the clink of dishware, slash, fork, smack of eating."

Elise adds her thoughts on public eating etiquette, expressing mixed feelings about the listener's perspective.

• Elise Hu [10:43]: "It could be more gross or less gross."

2. Nature Prescriptions

A Canadian nurse provides insight into the effectiveness of outdoor time as a complementary treatment for depression and anxiety.

• Listener [16:08]: "30 minutes of outdoor time a day is almost as effective as an SSRI."

Elise acknowledges the growing recognition of nature's therapeutic benefits.

• Elise Hu [17:19]: "It can keep you out of the doctor's office... It is so helpful."

3. Midlife Writing Romance Novels

Samantha Brin shares her journey of writing romance novels in midlife, finding community and fulfillment through her creative pursuits.

• Samantha Brin [18:15]: "I finally did something I really wanted to do and it was to write novels."

Doree celebrates Samantha's achievement, highlighting the empowering nature of midlife pivots.

• Doree Shafrir [19:05]: "I love the midlife pivot. I love the books."

4. Starting a Dance Company

Another listener describes her experience launching a local adaptation of The Nutcracker, balancing it with her responsibilities as a parent.

• Listener [19:41]: "I helped start a dance company... It's been like a second full-time job."

Elise and Doree commend her for fostering community and pursuing passion projects.

• Elise Hu [21:07]: "Makes me feel my heart feel happy."

5. Diastasis Recti Solutions

Lauren from Savannah seeks advice on managing split abdominal muscles post-pregnancy.

• Listener [22:14]: "Elise had to pause the pod regarding... split abs."

Doree and Elise share their personal experiences, recommending pelvic floor physical therapy as an effective solution.

• Elise Hu [22:49]: "A pelvic floor physical therapist is the doc to see."

6. Traveling to Paris and Recommendations

A longtime listener from New York requests travel tips for her upcoming trip to Paris, expressing appreciation for past recommendations.

• Listener [23:02]: "Could I put in a request for Glynis McNichols Paris recommendations..."

Elise assures her that the recommendations will be shared in the show notes, fostering a sense of community among listeners.

• Elise Hu [24:09]: "I have the list, so I'll. I sent it over to Sammy..."

7. Debate on Trader Joe's Hair Serum

The hosts address differing opinions on Trader Joe's hair serum, prompted by listener feedback.

• Listener [27:34]: "It's a daily use product for me... I really like it."

Elise and Doree engage in a lighthearted discussion, demonstrating the diverse preferences among their audience.

• Elise Hu [27:40]: "You definitely need to do that for science."

Doree adds humor by mentioning their holiday preparations alongside the debate.

• Doree Shafrir [30:48]: "It's the thought that counts."

Host Reflections

Throughout the episode, Doree and Elise reflect on their own experiences and the broader themes of midlife transitions. They emphasize the importance of pursuing passions, seeking professional help when needed, and finding joy in everyday moments.

• Doree Shafrir [25:21]: "You do need to do that for science. It is a necessity."

• Elise Hu [22:22]: "It's very common and a lot of moms just suffer through it. But some simple exercises can really make it go away."

Their conversations are interspersed with moments of vulnerability and encouragement, creating an engaging and relatable narrative for listeners.

Conclusion

In "Midlife Pivots Galore," Doree Shafrir and Elise Hu offer a heartfelt exploration of the various ways individuals navigate midlife changes. From personal injuries and family dynamics to entrepreneurial ventures and health concerns, this episode encapsulates the essence of Forever35: embracing self-care, fostering connections, and finding laughter amidst life's challenges. Whether you're considering a new hobby, dealing with physical setbacks, or simply seeking community, this episode provides valuable insights and inspiration.

Notable Quotes:

• Elise Hu [03:00]: "The first time, it was blinding pain... I had to hike back with this situation."
• Doree Shafrir [19:05]: "I love the midlife pivot. I love the books."
• Elise Hu [17:19]: "It can keep you out of the doctor's office... It is so helpful."

Join the Conversation

Have a story or question for the hosts? Reach out via text at 781-591-0390, email at forever35podcastmail.com, or connect on Instagram @forever35podcast. Share your midlife pivots and become part of the Forever35 community!