My So-Called Midlife with Reshma Saujani Episode: Entering Our Brad Pitt Era with Margaret Cho
Release Date: December 11, 2024
Host: Reshma Saujani
Guest: Margaret Cho
Produced by: Lemonada Media

Introduction

In this episode of My So-Called Midlife, host Reshma Saujani delves deep into the intricacies of midlife with the multifaceted comedian and activist, Margaret Cho. The conversation explores themes of aging, mental health, cultural identity, and the empowering journey of embracing one's true self during midlife.

Midlife Mindset and Personal Growth

Reshma opens the discussion by addressing the varied experiences of midlife, asking Margaret about her personal mindset during this phase.

Soo Jin Pak [04:45]: "What's your midlife mindset?"
Margaret Cho [04:56]: "I'm having the best time. I really am so amazed at how much better my life is. Like, it's great. I'm really happy."

Margaret emphasizes a positive outlook, highlighting her contentment and personal growth during her 50s. She shares her realization that happiness doesn't solely hinge on traditional milestones like marriage but on self-defined happiness and fulfillment.

Friendships and Social Connections

The conversation shifts to the dynamics of maintaining friendships in midlife. Reshma and Margaret discuss the challenges of sustaining old friendships and the difficulty of forging new ones.

Margaret Cho [06:09]: "With comedians, we form these lifelong bonds... we resume and maintain those friendships through texting or calling."

Margaret illustrates the unique nature of her friendships within the comedy community, highlighting how shared experiences can bridge long periods of absence. She also touches upon the broader challenge of meeting new people and building meaningful connections in midlife.

Meditation and Mental Health

Reshma introduces the topic of meditation as a tool for mental well-being, prompting Margaret to share her practices and insights.

Soo Jin Pak [07:36]: "Do you have any tips for meditation?"
Margaret Cho [08:00]: "Just stick with it because thoughts will always come. Guide them back to your point of reference."

Margaret discusses her meditation routine, which includes a unique practice of writing one joke every morning. This ritual serves as both a creative outlet and a method to center her thoughts, aiding in managing depression and promoting mental health.

Embracing Aging and Physical Health

The dialogue transitions to celebrating aging and maintaining physical health. Margaret shares her regimen that includes hormone replacement therapy, exercise, and other health-conscious practices.

Reshma [12:06]: "You take care of your physical health now, right?"
Margaret Cho [12:16]: "Yes, I drink green juice, exercise, garden, and bird watch."

Margaret credits her physical health routine as a cornerstone of her overall well-being, enabling her to navigate the physical changes that come with aging gracefully and energetically.

Menopause and Hormone Replacement Therapy

A significant portion of the conversation focuses on menopause and hormone replacement therapy (HRT), where Margaret candidly discusses her experiences and the empowerment that comes with controlling her hormonal health.

Soo Jin Pak [18:25]: "I love menopause... it's another puberty where you really come into a space of becoming yourself."
Margaret Cho [19:06]: "Having control over my hormones has allowed me to choose the people I want to be with and the experiences I want to have."

Margaret elaborates on how HRT has alleviated the physical and emotional challenges of menopause, granting her autonomy over her body and life choices. She underscores the importance of dismantling societal pressures regarding marriage and motherhood, advocating for personal freedom and self-determination.

Cultural Identity and Racism

Margaret shares her journey with cultural identity, grappling with internalized racism and societal expectations.

Soo Jin Pak [30:26]: "Were you still fighting internalized racism?"
Margaret Cho [30:59]: "I'm still fighting it. But I know that's just whiteness as a weapon used against myself."

The discussion delves into the complexities of being a queer woman of color in America. Margaret reflects on her childhood struggles with identity and the pervasive influence of whiteness as a societal standard. She critiques the medical trends of the past that marginalized women's health issues, particularly for women of color.

Margaret Cho's Current Projects and Future Aspirations

Reshma and Margaret explore Margaret's recent and upcoming projects, highlighting her continuous evolution as an artist and activist.

Soo Jin Pak [38:29]: "What are you looking forward to in this decade?"
Margaret Cho [38:39]: "I did my first nude scene in a movie... and I have a music album coming out in February called Lucky Gift."

Margaret discusses her stand-up tour, Live and Livid, which addresses contemporary social issues with humor and resilience. She also shares her foray into music with her new album, expressing excitement for her diverse creative endeavors.

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with reflections on the power of embracing midlife with joy, resilience, and authenticity. Reshma and Margaret agree on the importance of creating, building community, and finding joy amidst life's challenges.

Margaret Cho [34:34]: "I love just not doing anything. It's really healing."

Margaret emphasizes the value of rest and self-care, advocating for a balanced approach to life that honors both productivity and relaxation.

Notable Quotes

• Margaret Cho [04:56]: "I'm having the best time. I really am so amazed at how much better my life is. Like, it's great. I'm really happy."
• Margaret Cho [08:00]: "Just stick with [meditation] because that's going to happen no matter what."
• Margaret Cho [19:06]: "Having control over your hormones has allowed me to choose the people I want to be with."
• Margaret Cho [30:59]: "I'm still fighting it. But I know that's just whiteness as a weapon used against myself."
• Margaret Cho [34:34]: "I love just not doing anything. It's really healing."

Final Thoughts

This episode of My So-Called Midlife provides an insightful and heartfelt exploration of midlife through Margaret Cho's experiences. It underscores the importance of mental and physical health, cultural identity, and the empowerment that comes with embracing one's true self. Listeners are left with a sense of optimism and actionable insights into navigating midlife with grace and authenticity.

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