Podcast
Girlfriend’s Guide to Midlife Podcast
Hosted by Cathy Matthynssens · EN
Welcome to Girlfriend’s Guide to Midlife—your go-to podcast for real talk, real stories, and real inspiration. Think of this as a heart-to-heart with your best girlfriends, where we dive into everything midlife throws our way—from weight struggles and hormone rollercoasters to navigating divorce, rediscovering purpose, and even getting back into the dating scene. Who better to learn from than our girlfriends? Each week, we bring you heartfelt conversations with real women who’ve faced adversity, shown resilience, and found the strength to thrive. Whether you’re approaching midlife, knee-deep in it, or coming out on the other side, this podcast is for you.
I’m your host, Cathy Matthynssens, wife of 22 years to Marcus, mom to Logan and Colin, dog mom, a full time realtor in my hometown of Colorado Springs, a counselor, friend to many, sister, daughter, and the list goes on. I am 47 years young and in the thick of navigating all the changes that come with midlife.
Together, we’ll tackle topics like:
💼 Reinventing yourself at any age
💡 Finding purpose and passion
💰 Financial advice
👩❤️👩 Parenting adult children (and surviving empty nests!)
💄 Aging gracefully with beauty tips and self-care hacks
🌀 Managing midlife changes like hormone imbalances and health challenges
Through inspiring stories and actionable insights, you’ll gain the wisdom, confidence, and tools to navigate this transformative stage with vitality. Whether you’re chasing big dreams, seeking balance, or just figuring out “what’s next,” we’ve got you covered!
👭 Let’s talk about it! Join our supportive community at www.facebook.com/groups/girlfriendsmidlifepodcast and follow us on Instagram and TikTok at @girlfriendsmidlifepodcast.
✨ Don’t forget to hit subscribe and leave us a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you listen. Your feedback helps more women just like you find us—and ensures we bring you the conversations you crave.
Ready to embrace midlife with confidence, purpose, and a whole lot of fun? Press play and let’s talk about! 🎙️💕
21episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
10. Divorce, Dating, & Tips for Perimenopause | Embracing Life's Changes with Suzanne Greiner, Board Certified Nursing Coach
Feb 6, 202500:53:47Tap to summarizeHey friends! In this episode of Girlfriend’s Guide to Midlife podcast, I’m sitting down with the incredible Suzanne Greiner—mom of three and certified nursing coach—who’s been through some major midlife transitions, from divorce to perimenopause, and is here to share what she’s learned along the way. Suzanne gets real about the highs and lows of navigating change, the importance of listening to your body, and how she’s learned to manage perimenopausal symptoms through simple lifestyle shifts. We also dive into the power of community, self-care, and trusting your intuition—because let’s be real, midlife can feel like a rollercoaster, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Oh, and we couldn’t skip the topic of dating in midlife (because… whew, it’s a whole thing). Suzanne opens up about her experiences and what she’s learned about putting yourself out there again. If you’re feeling the shifts of this season of life, this conversation will give you the encouragement and tools to navigate it with confidence. Hit play and let’s get into it! 🎧✨ Come Connect with Me & Other Girlfriend’s in Midlife: Follow Me on Instagram Follow the Podcast on Instagram Join the Girlfriend’s Guide to Midlife Facebook Community Follow Suzanne on Instagram www.suzannegreinercoaching.com Thank you for tuning in to this episode! I’m so grateful to have you here as part of this incredible community of women navigating midlife with grace, courage, and curiosity. Remember, this season of life is full of opportunities to rediscover yourself, embrace your wisdom, and live with renewed purpose. If this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with a friend or leave a rating & review—it means the world to me and helps more amazing women like you find the show. Here’s to thriving in midlife and beyond! ❤️
Transcribe →9. How an Autoimmune Diagnosis Sparked a Journey of Healing, Hope, & Purpose with Kirstin Bolt, Integrative Health Practitioner
Jan 30, 202500:55:14Tap to summarizeHey friend! In this episode of Girlfriend’s Guide to Midlife podcast, I got to chat with the amazing Kirstin Bolt from Greenville, South Carolina. Kirstin has an incredibly inspiring story of overcoming trauma and a series of autoimmune diseases. She walks us through her tough childhood, a rocky twenties, and a sickness-filled thirties to how she became an Integrative Health Practitioner. Kirstin is on a mission to help others find balance and purpose in life through holistic health. She shares how her faith has been a cornerstone in her healing journey. Kirstin also opens up about her daughter's Type 1 Diabetes diagnosis and how it shaped her family's life. You are going to love this chat about practical tips for living with autoimmune diseases, the role of a strong mindset, and the importance of community. Plus, she just released her new ebook, which aims to be a go-to resource for anyone facing tough health challenges. Tune in for loads of inspiration and actionable advice! Come Connect with Me & Other Girlfriend’s in Midlife: Follow Me on Instagram Follow the Podcast on Instagram Join the Girlfriend’s Guide to Midlife Facebook Community Follow Kirstin on Instagram Kristin’s New EBook Linked in Her Instagram Bio Dirty Dozen List Thank you for tuning in to this episode! I’m so grateful to have you here as part of this incredible community of women navigating midlife with grace, courage, and curiosity. Remember, this season of life is full of opportunities to rediscover yourself, embrace your wisdom, and live with renewed purpose. If this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with a friend or leave a rating & review—it means the world to me and helps more amazing women like you find the show. Here’s to thriving in midlife and beyond! ❤️
Transcribe →8. A Path to Connection, Purpose, and Joy with Jae Sanders Nurse Practitioner & Philanthropist
Jan 23, 202500:37:43Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Girlfriend’s Guide to Midlife podcast, I’m so excited to introduce you to my dear friend, Jae Sanders. She’s a 55-year-old nurse practitioner from Colorado Springs with an incredible story. Jae has been with her partner, Marie, for 17 years, and they’ve raised their amazing daughter, Ashley, who Jae adopted when she was just three years old.We chat about Jae’s journey—both professionally and personally. From starting her own bone health clinic to raising Ashley, she shares what it’s been like to navigate life’s highs and challenges. We also dive into the topic of bone health (spoiler: it’s way more important than you might think!). Jae busts some common myths about osteoporosis, shares tips for prevention, and even explains how the pandemic has impacted bone health. And because Jae is someone who does it all, we talk about how she balances her career, her family, her health, and even her volunteer work. She’s got some beautiful insights about the importance of caring for yourself as a caregiver and why giving back is so enriching. This conversation is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and practical tips. Whether you’re looking to learn more about bone health or just want to hear a really heartfelt, uplifting story, this episode is for you. Come Connect with Me & Other Girlfriend’s in Midlife: Follow Me on Instagram Follow the Podcast on Instagram Join the Girlfriend’s Guide to Midlife Facebook Community 100 Women Who Care Thank you for tuning in to this episode! I’m so grateful to have you here as part of this incredible community of women navigating midlife with grace, courage, and curiosity. Remember, this season of life is full of opportunities to rediscover yourself, embrace your wisdom, and live with renewed purpose. If this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with a friend or leave a rating & review—it means the world to me and helps more amazing women like you find the show. Here’s to thriving in midlife and beyond! ❤️
Transcribe →7. From Overworked in the City to Flourishing in the Garden | How Lindsey Brown Uprooted Her Life & Slowed Down to Pursue New Passions
Jan 16, 202500:41:58Tap to summarizeIn this episode, I’m sitting down with one of my closest friends, Lindsey Brown, for a conversation that feels like a walk down memory lane—college days, NYC adventures, and all the big life changes in between. Lindsey has such an inspiring story of trading the fast-paced hustle of New York City for a slower, more intentional life in Naples, Florida. Now a CEO of her family’s real estate business and a mom of two, Lindsey opens up about navigating health challenges like inflammation and hair loss. She shares how she’s turned to natural healing, including integrating plants into her diet, creating a food forest, and even starting a medicinal garden on her property.We also dive into the pivotal moments that led her family to completely shift their lifestyle, including a yoga retreat that changed everything. This conversation is filled with heart, inspiration, and practical insights on health, family, and the magic of reconnecting with nature. I can’t wait for you to listen—it’s a good one! Come Connect with Me & Other Girlfriend’s in Midlife: Follow Me on Instagram Follow the Podcast on Instagram Join the Girlfriend’s Guide to Midlife Facebook Community Follow Lindsey on Instagram Search "the godfather of food forest and permaculture" per Lindsey's recommendation Thank you for tuning in to this episode! I’m so grateful to have you here as part of this incredible community of women navigating midlife with grace, courage, and curiosity. Remember, this season of life is full of opportunities to rediscover yourself, embrace your wisdom, and live with renewed purpose. If this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with a friend or leave a rating & review—it means the world to me and helps more amazing women like you find the show. Here’s to thriving in midlife and beyond! ❤️
Transcribe →6. Hormone Replacement Therapy & Reclaiming Confidence in Midlife with Jen Weis
Jan 9, 202500:41:36Tap to summarizeIn this episode of Girlfriend’s Guide to Midlife Podcast, I introduce my good friend Jen Weis from Colorado Springs, who, like me, is an empty nester. We dive into a deep discussion about hormones and hormone replacement therapy, sharing valuable insights and personal experiences. Jen, with her significant background in health, wellness, and hormone replacement therapy, talks about her journey from being shy to becoming what she calls a 'comfort zone annihilator.' We explore the challenges and transitions faced in midlife, the importance of hormone balance, and clear up some of the misperceptions around the safety and efficacy of hormone replacement therapy. Her passion for empowering women to feel their best really shines through as she shares practical tips and personal stories. It's all about taking control of our health and living with vitality. Come Connect with Me & Other Girlfriend’s in Midlife: Follow Me on Instagram Follow the Podcast on Instagram Join the Girlfriend’s Guide to Midlife Facebook Community Follow Jen on Instagram Dr. Mary Claire Hormone Havoc by Dr. Terri Deneui Evexias Dr. Terri Deneui Podcast Thank you for tuning in to this episode! I’m so grateful to have you here as part of this incredible community of women navigating midlife with grace, courage, and curiosity. Remember, this season of life is full of opportunities to rediscover yourself, embrace your wisdom, and live with renewed purpose. If this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with a friend or leave a rating & review—it means the world to me and helps more amazing women like you find the show. Here’s to thriving in midlife and beyond! ❤️
Transcribe →5. A New Year’s Focus on Self-Care, Skin Care, Menopause, Money Management, & More with Guest Amanda Thompson
Jan 2, 202500:58:10Tap to summarizeIn this New Year special episode, we welcome Amanda Thompson, founder of Kick Peach Beauty, who shares her journey of developing waterless skincare products and her passion for beauty. Amanda delves into her personal experiences with menopause, offering insight into unexpected symptoms like hair loss and osteoporosis, and discusses the importance of understanding hormone health. She also opens up about financial challenges and the steps she and her husband took to regain control over their finances, including adopting a family profit and loss sheet. Join us as Amanda provides valuable tips on skincare, navigating menopause, and achieving financial strength in midlife. Come Connect with Me & Other Girlfriend’s in Midlife Follow Me on Instagram Follow the Podcast on Instagram Join the Girlfriend’s Guide to Midlife Facebook Community Mel Robbins Podcast Episode Follow Amanda Thompson on Instagram Check Out Kick Peach Thank you for tuning in to this episode! I’m so grateful to have you here as part of this incredible community of women navigating midlife with grace, courage, and curiosity. Remember, this season of life is full of opportunities to rediscover yourself, embrace your wisdom, and live with renewed purpose. If this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with a friend or leave a rating & review—it means the world to me and helps more amazing women like you find the show. Here’s to thriving in midlife and beyond! ❤️
Transcribe →4. Embracing the Empty Nest with Intentionality & Faith with Guest Chel Garrison: Life Coach, Speaker, & Pastor’s Wife
Dec 26, 202400:44:03Tap to summarizeIn this heartwarming episode, I catch up with my dear friend Chel Garrison, who is an amazing life coach specializing in intentional living. We talk about her journey helping individuals and entrepreneurs with strategic growth and problem-solving. Chel shares her experiences transitioning to an empty nest, the joy of watching her kids thrive, and the importance of maintaining a strong marriage. We also chat about how faith has guided her during tough times, the power of taking ownership of your life, and the value of living authentically. Join us for some great laughs, invaluable insights, and plenty of inspiration to live your best, most intentional life! Come Connect with Me & Other Girlfriend’s in Midlife: Follow Me on Instagram Follow the Podcast on Instagram Join the Girlfriend’s Guide to Midlife Facebook Community Follow Chel on Instagram www.chelshocked.com The Gritty Girl’s Podcast Thank you for tuning in to this episode! I’m so grateful to have you here as part of this incredible community of women navigating midlife with grace, courage, and curiosity. Remember, this season of life is full of opportunities to rediscover yourself, embrace your wisdom, and live with renewed purpose. If this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with a friend or leave a rating & review—it means the world to me and helps more amazing women like you find the show. Here’s to thriving in midlife and beyond! ❤️
Transcribe →3. Maintaining Health & Wellness in Midlife Gracefully with Guest Courtney Martin: Health Coach, Mom of 2, & Entrepreneur
Dec 19, 202400:43:44Tap to summarizeIn this episode, I'm thrilled to introduce my inspiring friend that I met through social media, Courtney Martin, who joins me to discuss her journey and insights on maintaining health and wellness in midlife. We explore the importance of intention, accountability, and self-care as Courtney shares her story of meeting online, establishing a successful health and wellness business, and balancing a busy family life. Courtney offers valuable advice on goal setting, movement, and staying positive despite life's challenges. We also delve into shedding the fear of others' opinions, celebrating successes, and maintaining a strong mindset. Whether you're looking to kickstart your wellness journey or seeking motivation, this conversation is packed with practical tips and heartfelt wisdom. Come Connect with Me & Other Girlfriend’s in Midlife Follow Me on Instagram Follow the Podcast on Instagram Join the Girlfriend’s Guide to Midlife Facebook Community Follow Courtney Martin on Instagram www.sheleadsstrong.com Thank you for tuning in to this episode! I’m so grateful to have you here as part of this incredible community of women navigating midlife with grace, courage, and curiosity. Remember, this season of life is full of opportunities to rediscover yourself, embrace your wisdom, and live with renewed purpose. If this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with a friend or leave a rating & review—it means the world to me and helps more amazing women like you find the show. Here’s to thriving in midlife and beyond! ❤️
Transcribe →2. Be Who You Came to Be with Guest Tara Renze: Author, Keynote Speaker, & EQ Expert
Dec 12, 202400:45:28Tap to summarizeIn this episode of The Girlfriend’s Guide to Midlife podcast, I'm thrilled to have Tara Renze as my inaugural guest! We dive into our decade-long friendship that began in network marketing, and I share how Tara's authenticity and vulnerability have always inspired me. We explore her powerful 'Be Who You Came to Be' message, which encourages women in midlife to embrace change and pursue their passions despite fears and societal expectations. We also discuss the challenges and joys of balancing motherhood and career shifts, the role of mental fitness and emotional intelligence, and the transformative power of staying active. This episode is full of valuable insights and practical advice for anyone looking to live a more fulfilled and authentic life. Join us for an inspiring conversation that will motivate you to take that next bold step! Come Connect with Me & Other Girlfriend’s in Midlife Follow Me on Instagram Follow the Podcast on Instagram Join the Girlfriend’s Guide to Midlife Facebook Community Thank you for tuning in to this episode! I’m so grateful to have you here as part of this incredible community of women navigating midlife with grace, courage, and curiosity. Remember, this season of life is full of opportunities to rediscover yourself, embrace your wisdom, and live with renewed purpose. If this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with a friend or leave a rating & review—it means the world to me and helps more amazing women like you find the show. Here’s to thriving in midlife and beyond! ❤️
Transcribe →1. Thriving in Midlife: Creating Community, Embracing Change, & Starting Your Day with a Morning Routine
Dec 12, 202400:14:54Tap to summarizeIn this debut episode of the Girlfriend’s Guide to Midlife Podcast, I excitedly introduce my vision for a heartfelt, interview-style podcast featuring incredible women. But first I wanted to start with a solo episode to reflect on a recent dinner with my long-term girlfriends, discussing bodies, midlife changes, and the unique journeys we've shared together over the years. Inspired by our candid conversations, this podcast aims to foster a community where women can share, feel supported, and leave judgment at the door. I share personal stories, a bit of inspiration for the upcoming year, and practical advice on establishing a morning routine that works for you. Join us on social media to continue the conversation and let's embark on this empowering journey together. Come Connect with Me & Other Girlfriend’s in Midlife Follow Me on Instagram Follow the Podcast on Instagram Join the Girlfriend’s Guide to Midlife Facebook Community Thank you for tuning in to this episode! I’m so grateful to have you here as part of this incredible community of women navigating midlife with grace, courage, and curiosity. Remember, this season of life is full of opportunities to rediscover yourself, embrace your wisdom, and live with renewed purpose. If this episode resonated with you, I’d love for you to share it with a friend or leave a rating & review—it means the world to me and helps more amazing women like you find the show. Here’s to thriving in midlife and beyond! ❤️
Transcribe →