Midlife Mavens
Welcome to Midlife Mavens, the podcast where we celebrate and explore the rich tapestry of life for women in midlife—those in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond. Tune in for candid conversations about sex, love, relationships, and the unique challenges that come with this transformative stage of life, including perimenopause and menopause. At Midlife Mavens, we strive to create a welcoming space for women and their loved ones. Each episode brings inspiring stories and practical advice to help you navigate your journey with confidence and joy. Join us as we help listeners feel validated, uplifted, and empowered. Expect to hear from experts and relatable guests who share invaluable insights and experiences that will inspire you to thrive in midlife.
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Episodes
Episodes
Tuesday Mar 10, 2026
Tuesday Mar 10, 2026
In this episode of the Midlife Mavens podcast, hosts Marci Burroughs and Carol O'Saben engage in a candid discussion with Ryan Whited, a strength and exercise coach, personal trainer, and elite climber. They delve into the importance of fitness and exercise for midlife women, offering insights into overcoming fears, daily aches and pains, and common fitness myths. Ryan shares his innovative approach of using minimal equipment for effective home workouts and emphasizes shifting focus from vanity to overall health. The conversation highlights how rethinking physical activity can empower and improve the lives of women in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond.
00:00 Introduction to Midlife Mavens
01:24 Meet Ryan Whitehead: Strength and Exercise Coach
02:01 Personal Journey with Fitness and Healing
04:12 Changing Perspectives on Aging and Exercise
07:26 Addressing Fitness Myths and Mindset Shifts
21:00 Virtual Training and Home Workouts
25:01 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview
Got a question or a suggestion for a future episode? Use our “Ask Us Anything” Form: https://forms.gle/3bo4KuaXfGxCUS9C9
If you are looking for a therapist and would like to reach out to Marci or Carol, take a look at their websites:
Marci: https://www.marciburroughsphdcst.com
Carol: https://www.drosaben.com
Other therapist directories you can use to help you find therapy include:
Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/th…
Mental Health Match: https://mentalhealthmatch.com/
American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists: https://aasect.org
iTherapy: https://itherapy.com
Tuesday Feb 24, 2026
Tuesday Feb 24, 2026
In this episode of the Midlife Mavens podcast, hosts Marci Burroughs and Carol O'Saben welcome Dr. Jessica Beachkofsky, a psychiatrist specializing in perimenopause and menopause. They discuss various hormone replacement therapy (HRT) options, debunk myths around HRT and perimenopause, and provide insights into the role of testosterone in midlife. Dr. B emphasizes the importance of realistic expectations from HRT, the safety concerns around supplements, and the significance of patient-specific approaches in treatment. The episode aims to offer empowering and educational content for women navigating midlife transitions.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
01:18 Meet Dr. B: Specializing in Perimenopause and Menopause
01:38 Exploring Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Options
08:28 The Role and Controversy of Testosterone in Midlife
15:35 Debunking Myths and Misinformation about Menopause
23:24 Final Thoughts and Resources
More information about Dr. B:
Dr. Jessica Beachkofsky (https://www.jessicabeachkofsky.com) is a psychiatrist specializing in perimenopause and menopause mental health. Dr. B works with women navigating hormonal shifts, mood changes and all the brain chaos that comes with a perimenopause menopause transition. She's really good at making medicine and psychiatry digestible, engaging, and actually useful because knowledge is power and midlife women deserve both.
Got a question or a suggestion for a future episode? Use our “Ask Us Anything” Form: https://forms.gle/3bo4KuaXfGxCUS9C9
If you are looking for a therapist and would like to reach out to Marci or Carol, take a look at their websites:
Marci: https://www.marciburroughsphdcst.com
Carol: https://www.drosaben.com
Other therapist directories you can use to help you find therapy include:
Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/th…
Mental Health Match: https://mentalhealthmatch.com/
American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists: https://aasect.org
iTherapy: https://itherapy.com
Tuesday Feb 10, 2026
Tuesday Feb 10, 2026
In this episode of the Midlife Mavens podcast, hosts Marci Burroughs and Carol O'Saben continue their conversation with Dr. Jessica Beachkofsky, a psychiatrist specializing in perimenopause and menopause. They dive deep into hormone replacement therapy (HRT), discussing historical fears, current understandings, and the relationship between HRT and breast cancer risk. Dr. B also elaborates on bone health, osteopenia, and the benefits of estrogen for heart health. This episode aims to provide clarity and factual information to empower women navigating midlife changes.
00:00 Comparing Alcohol and HRT in terms of breast cancer risk
00:16 Introduction to Midlife Mavens Podcast
01:18 Meet Dr. B: Specialist in Perimenopause and Menopause
01:32 Debunking Myths About Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
03:31 Risks and Benefits of HRT
06:30 When to Consider Starting HRT
10:41 Alternative Ways to Manage Menopause Symptoms
17:14 Bone Density and Osteopenia Explained
25:54 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview
More information about Dr. B:
Dr. Jessica Beachkofsky (https://www.jessicabeachkofsky.com) is a psychiatrist specializing in perimenopause and menopause mental health. Dr. B works with women navigating hormonal shifts, mood changes and all the brain chaos that comes with a perimenopause menopause transition. She's really good at making medicine and psychiatry digestible, engaging, and actually useful because knowledge is power and midlife women deserve both.
Here’s Dr B’s hormone information sheet: https://tinyurl.com/drb-hormones
Got a question or a suggestion for a future episode? Use our “Ask Us Anything” Form: https://forms.gle/3bo4KuaXfGxCUS9C9
If you are looking for a therapist and would like to reach out to Marci or Carol, take a look at their websites:
Marci: https://www.marciburroughsphdcst.com
Carol: https://www.drosaben.com
Other therapist directories you can use to help you find therapy include:
Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/th…
Mental Health Match: https://mentalhealthmatch.com/
American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists: https://aasect.org
iTherapy: https://itherapy.com
Tuesday Jan 27, 2026
Tuesday Jan 27, 2026
In this episode of the Midlife Mavens podcast, hosts Marci Burroughs and Carol O'Saben welcome Dr. Jessica Beachkofsky (https://www.jessicabeachkofsky.com/) a psychiatrist specializing in perimenopause and menopause mental health. The discussion revolves around the impact of hormones on mood, anxiety, sleep, and libido, highlighting the roles of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. Dr. B explains how hormonal changes during midlife affect the brain, bones, and cardiovascular system. The episode also explores the sedative effects of progesterone on sleep, the significance of early perimenopausal symptom recognition, and the challenges of hormone testing. Tune in as the hosts and Dr. B delve into the complexities of managing midlife hormonal changes and the potential benefits of hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
00:00 Introduction to Midlife Mavens
01:08 Meet Dr. Jessica Beachkofsky
01:59 Understanding Hormones and Mental Health
02:56 The Role of Estrogen in Women's Health
07:58 Progesterone and Sleep
14:09 Challenges with Hormone Testing
19:47 Recognizing Perimenopausal Symptoms
26:00 Conclusion and Next Steps
More information about Dr. B:
Dr. Jessica Beachkofsky (https://www.jessicabeachkofsky.com) is a psychiatrist specializing in perimenopause and menopause mental health. Dr. B works with women navigating hormonal shifts, mood changes and all the brain chaos that comes with a perimenopause menopause transition. She's really good at making medicine and psychiatry digestible, engaging, and actually useful because knowledge is power and midlife women deserve both.
Here’s Dr B’s hormone information sheet: https://tinyurl.com/drb-hormones
Got a question or a suggestion for a future episode? Use our “Ask Us Anything” Form: https://forms.gle/3bo4KuaXfGxCUS9C9
If you are looking for a therapist and would like to reach out to Marci or Carol, take a look at their websites:
Marci: https://www.marciburroughsphdcst.com
Carol: https://www.drosaben.com
Other therapist directories you can use to help you find therapy include:
Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/th…
Mental Health Match: https://mentalhealthmatch.com/
American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists: https://aasect.org
iTherapy: https://itherapy.com
Tuesday Jan 13, 2026
Tuesday Jan 13, 2026
In this episode of the Midlife Mavens podcast, hosts Marci Burroughs and Carol O’Saben discuss the topic of mismatched libidos, a common issue many couples face but rarely talk about openly. Marci, a certified sex therapist, shares her expertise on the nature of mismatched sexual desire, comparing it to differences in appetite and sleep. The conversation addresses common myths surrounding sexual desire, particularly the difference between spontaneous and responsive desire. They discuss the importance of communication, intimacy beyond sex, and strategies to manage this dynamic, including taking breaks from sex, understanding personal boundaries, and the concept of a ’desire dial.’ The episode also touches on the impact of hormonal changes, the role of masturbation, and the significance of changing how one thinks about the role of sex in a relationship. This candid discussion aims to provide listeners, especially women in midlife, with insights and tools to improve their sexual relationships and overall intimacy.00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview01:35 Understanding Mismatched Libidos06:39 Common Myths About Sexual Desire12:57 Spontaneous vs. Responsive Desire28:23 Strategies for Managing Mismatched Libidos32:02 Special Considerations for LGBTQ Couples35:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Books Mentioned by Marci:
Awaken your Body Awaken Your Desire by Danielle Armour, PhDCome as You Are by Emily Nagoski
Got a question or a suggestion for a future episode? Use our “Ask Us Anything” Form: https://forms.gle/3bo4KuaXfGxCUS9C9
If you are looking for a therapist and would like to reach out to Marci or Carol, take a look at their websites:
Marci: https://www.marciburroughsphdcst.com
Carol: https://www.drosaben.com
Other therapist directories you can use to help you find therapy include:
Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/th...
Mental Health Match: https://mentalhealthmatch.com/
American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists: https://aasect.org
iTherapy: https://itherapy.com
Sunday Oct 19, 2025
Sunday Oct 19, 2025
In this episode of the Midlife Mavens podcast, hosts Marci Burroughs and Carol O'Saben discuss the complex challenges associated with caring for aging parents. They explore the emotional, physical, and financial burdens that caregivers face and offer strategies for managing compassion fatigue and burnout. The hosts emphasize the importance of setting boundaries, recognizing when professional help is needed, and taking care of one's own mental health. They also touch on the dynamics of caregiving in strained relationships and provide resources for additional support. This episode aims to validate the diverse experiences of caregivers and offer practical insights for navigating this demanding phase of life.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
01:27 Today's Topic: Caring for Aging Parents
03:19 Emotional and Logistical Challenges
04:27 Financial Struggles and Misconceptions
07:27 Physical Demands and Caregiving Realities
17:14 Managing Compassion Fatigue
28:05 Navigating Complex Family Dynamics
34:57 Resources and Support for Caregivers
37:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Books mentioned by Carol:
"Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End" by Atul Gawande
"Rules of Engagement: Why Adult Children Cut Ties and How to Heal the Conflict"
Several national organizations offer support groups and resources for caregivers of the elderly. Here are a few we've identified:
Caregiver Action Network (CAN): CAN provides education, peer support, and resources to family caregivers nationwide. They are a leading organization focused on improving the lives of caregivers.
[https://acl.gov/programs/support-caregivers/national-family-caregiver-support-program#:~:text=Caregiver%20Action%20Network%20is%20the%20nation's%20leading,to%20family%20caregivers%20nationwide%20free%20of%20charge]
National Alliance for Caregiving: This organization focuses on research, policy analysis, programs, and advocacy for caregiver families. They also work to improve the quality of life for both caregivers and those they care for.
[https://www.caringinfo.org/planning/caregiving/caregiving-resources/#:~:text=The%20National%20Institute%20of%20Aging%2C%20the%20CDC%2C,are%20rich%20resources%20for%20help%20and%20connections]
National Family Caregiver Support Program: This program, authorized under the Older Americans Act, helps families care for older adults at home. It provides services like counseling, support groups, caregiver training, and respite care.
[https://www.tn.gov/disability-and-aging/disability-aging-programs/caregiving.html]
Eldercare Locator: This nationwide service connects older adults and their caregivers with local support resources. It can help find services like meals, home care, transportation, and more.
Alzheimer's Association: This organization offers support groups and resources specifically for caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's disease and other dementias. [https://www.ncoa.org/caregivers/benefits/caregiver-support/#:~:text=The%20Eldercare%20Locator%20is%20a%20nationwide%20service,can%20point%20you%20in%20the%20right%20direction]
Other Helpful Resources:
AARP: AARP offers information and resources on a wide range of caregiving topics, including financial, legal, and medical support.
Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs): These local agencies provide services and support to older adults and their caregivers within their communities.
Disease-specific support groups: Organizations like the Alzheimer's Foundation of America, the Parkinson's Foundation, and CancerCare offer support groups for caregivers of individuals with specific conditions.
Got a question or a suggestion for a future episode? Use our “Ask Us Anything” Form: https://forms.gle/3bo4KuaXfGxCUS9C9
If you are looking for a therapist and would like to reach out to Marci or Carol, take a look at their websites:
Marci: https://www.marciburroughsphdcst.com
Carol: https://www.drosaben.com
Other therapist directories you can use to help you find therapy include:
Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/th...
Mental Health Match: https://mentalhealthmatch.com/
American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists: https://aasect.org
iTherapy: https://itherapy.com
Sunday Oct 19, 2025
Sunday Oct 19, 2025
In this episode of the Midlife Mavens podcast, hosts Marci Burroughs and Carol O'Saben discuss what men in committed relationships need to know about perimenopause and menopause. They cover the challenges women face during these life transitions, including changes in hormone levels, mood swings, sleep disturbances, and decreased libido. They also offer practical advice for men on how to support their partners, the importance of education, patience, and empathy, and ways to open up supportive dialogue. The episode highlights the need for men to be understanding and supportive during this critical period to help maintain strong relationships.
00:00 Introduction to Midlife Mavens Podcast
01:25 Understanding Menopause and Perimenopause
02:42 Common Symptoms and Experiences
04:47 Emotional and Psychological Impact
17:47 Supporting Your Partner
33:10 Conclusion and Resources
If you are looking for a therapist and would like to reach out to Marci or Carol, take a look at their websites:
Marci: https://www.marciburroughsphdcst.com
Carol: https://www.drosaben.com
Other therapist directories you can use to help you find therapy include:
Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/th...
Mental Health Match: https://mentalhealthmatch.com/
American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists: https://aasect.org
iTherapy: https://itherapy.com
Sunday Oct 19, 2025
Sunday Oct 19, 2025
In this episode of the Midlife Mavens podcast, hosts Marci Burroughs and Carol O'Saben, both psychologists specializing in relationships and sexuality, discuss various relationship structures for women in midlife. They cover the pros and cons of remarrying, staying single, cohabitating without marriage, and maintaining committed partnerships while living separately. The hosts emphasize the importance of making intentional decisions that suit individual circumstances and also touch on the impact of societal views and family dynamics on these relationships. Topics like financial considerations, legal and medical benefits, and the emotional aspects of merging lives are also explored. Future episodes will delve into monogamy versus non-monogamy and how these choices might affect relationships in midlife.
00:00 Introduction to Midlife Mavens
01:14 Today's Topic: Relationship Structures in Midlife
03:43 The Pros and Cons of Remarrying
07:04 Staying Single: Benefits and Challenges
15:35 Cohabitation: Navigating Shared Spaces
18:26 Blending Families and Financial Considerations
24:10 Committed Relationships Without Cohabitation
31:47 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
This is the third in our series on relationships in midlife. In Episode 4 we explored some of the changes that occur in relationships in midlife. In Episode 9 we discussed dating in midlife and in this episode we explore the different types of relationships that individuals might choose (or find themselves in) in midlife.
Episode Notes:
“Ask Us Anything”: https://forms.gle/3bo4KuaXfGxCUS9C9
If you are looking for a therapist and would like to reach out to Marci or Carol, take a look at their websites:
Marci: https://www.marciburroughsphdcst.com
Carol: https://www.drosaben.com
Other therapist directories you can use to help you find therapy include:
Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/th...
Mental Health Match: https://mentalhealthmatch.com/
American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists: https://aasect.org
iTherapy: https://itherapy.com