Midlife Mavens

Season 1: Episode 8: Midlife Mastery: Grounding Techniques and Compassionate Self-Care

In this episode of the Midlife Mavens podcast, hosts Marci Burroughs and Carol O'Saben introduce mindfulness techniques that can be easily incorporated into daily life to manage stress and enhance self-compassion. Carol guides listeners through the Five Senses Grounding Technique, while Marci demonstrates a Compassionate Hands exercise. Both exercises are designed to help individuals focus on the present moment and respond to their own difficult feelings with kindness. 
 
00:00 Introduction to Compassion and Self-Kindness
00:19 Welcome to Midlife Mavens Podcast
00:48 Disclaimer and Purpose of the Podcast
01:26 Coping Techniques for Stress
02:16 Five Senses Grounding Technique
02:54 Guided Five Senses Exercise
08:48 Conclusion of Five Senses Technique
09:45 Intermission: Professional Services
10:50 Compassionate Hands Exercise
11:32 Guided Compassionate Hands Exercise
17:23 Conclusion and Encouragement
18:06 Final Thoughts and Farewell
 
“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

Season 1: Episode 7: Mood, Mind, and Menopause: A Candid Midlife Chat

In this episode of the Midlife Mavens podcast, hosts Marci Burroughs and Carol O'Saben, both psychologists specializing in relationships and sexuality, discuss the often-overlooked connection between hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause and mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and ADHD. They provide personal insights and professional perspectives on how these hormonal changes can exacerbate or trigger mood disorders, and emphasize the importance of recognizing these symptoms for appropriate treatment. The episode also covers the societal and medical community's lack of attention to women's health issues, the potential benefits of hormone replacement therapy, and the necessity of tailoring mental health care to the unique needs of women in midlife. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the hosts on potential future topics.
 
00:00 Introduction to Midlife Mavens
01:34 Understanding Mental Health in Midlife
03:05 The Overlap of Hormones and Mood Disorders
05:22 Training Gaps in Mental Health and Menopause
07:03 Common Mental Health Issues During Menopause
10:33 Impact of Hormone Replacement Therapy
11:22 Consultation and Therapy Options
12:28 Addressing Myths and Misconceptions
19:08 ADHD and Executive Functioning Challenges
25:09 Future Topics and Viewer Engagement
26:29 Conclusion and Encouragement for Therapy
“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
 

Season 1: Episode 6: Midlife Sexuality Unplugged: A Candid Conversation

In this episode of the Midlife Mavens podcast, hosts Marci Burroughs and Carol O'Saben discuss the changes in sexuality that women experience during their 40s, 50s, and 60s. They candidly talk about physical changes such as wrinkles, skin elasticity, and vaginal dryness, as well as the impact of hormonal changes on libido and desire. The hosts emphasize the importance of communication in relationships, breaking societal taboos around discussing sex, and the potential benefits of medical treatments. This conversation aims to empower and inspire women to embrace their evolving sexuality and seek professional help if needed.
00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Background
00:44 Disclaimer and Purpose of the Podcast
01:22 Recap of Last Episode and Today's Focus
01:42 Physical Changes in Midlife
07:15 Psychological and Emotional Aspects of Midlife Changes
08:19 Medical Interventions and Seeking Help
11:35 Communication and Relationship Dynamics
16:00 Generational Differences in Discussing Sex
18:18 Conclusion and Call to Action
Got a question or suggestion for a topic you would like to hear us discuss, let us know! You can access 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
 

Season 1: Episode 5: Sexy at Any Age: Midlife Mindset Shifts and Self-Care Tips

n this episode of the Midlife Mavens podcast, hosts Marci Burroughs and Carol O'Saben discuss how women in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond can navigate changes in their bodies and self-image. Responding to a listener's question about feeling sexy in midlife, they explore shifts in appearance, mood, and physical health. They emphasize the importance of self-compassion, realistic comparisons, and acceptance of one's current self. The episode also introduces strategies like 'compassionate hands' exercises and looks forward to future discussions on coping with changes related to sex and other midlife transitions.
00:00 Introduction and Hosts' Background
01:26 Listener's Question: Feeling Sexy in Midlife
02:22 Changes in Appearance and Self-Image
05:03 Comparisons and Self-Compassion
16:17 Practical Tips for Self-Compassion
20:57 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser
Let us know what questions you would like to hear us address on a future episode: 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
 

Season 1: Episode 4: Navigating the Challenges of Long-Term Relationships in Midlife

In this episode of the Midlife Mavens podcast, hosts Marci Burroughs and Carol O'Saben, both psychologists specializing in relationships and sexuality, discuss the unique challenges faced by couples in long-term relationships. They explore issues such as boredom, routine, loss of passion, and the impact of life changes like empty nesting and retirement. Emphasizing the importance of communication and connection, they offer insights and practical tips for maintaining a healthy and exciting relationship as life evolves. The episode also touches on societal expectations, mental health, and how to keep the relationship dynamic by recognizing and addressing each partner's evolving needs.
00:00 Introduction to Midlife Mavens Podcast
01:18 Challenges of Long-Term Relationships
02:28 Dealing with Boredom in Relationships
07:48 Maintaining Connection and Rituals
17:45 Impact of Health and Mental Health Changes
21:35 Navigating Life Transitions
27:49 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
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
Marci mentioned her training in the Gottman method. One of her favorite resources is this book by John Gottman: "The Seven Principles for Making Marriage Work: A Practical Guide from the Country's Foremost Relationship Expert."

Season 1: Episode 3: The Balance Act: Midlife Women's Struggles with Perfectionism and Societal Expectations

In this episode of the Midlife Mavens podcast, hosts Marci Burroughs and Carol O'Saben discuss the challenges midlife women face in balancing their numerous responsibilities. They explore where this pressure to 'do it all' comes from, touching on societal expectations, traditional gender roles, and internal perfectionism. The conversation highlights how both men and women experience these pressures differently, and delves into the emotional burden many women carry in managing households. The episode encourages listeners to reflect on their own balancing acts and emphasizes the importance of being present in the moment. Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational purposes and not a substitute for professional mental health services.
00:00 Introduction to the Balancing Act
00:13 Meet Your Hosts: Marci and Carol
01:22 Exploring the Concept of Balance
02:13 Personal Stories and Juggling Responsibilities
03:50 Gender Roles and Societal Expectations
10:34 Household Management and Emotional Burden
12:04 Impact of Perfectionism and Anxiety
21:46 Aging, Appearance, and Societal Pressure
24:36 Final Thoughts and Reflections
29:57 Conclusion and Call to Action
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
 

Season 1: Episode 2: Words Matter: The Power of Naming Your Midlife Journey

Summary:
In this episode of the Midlife Mavens podcast, hosts Marci Burroughs and Carol O'Saben explore the intricacies of midlife for women, particularly addressing the societal norms and expectations around aging. They share personal anecdotes, including Carol”ss experience with letting her hair go gray and the surprising realization that many women never saw their elders go gray due to widespread hair coloring practices. The hosts discuss the emotional responses tied to labels like 'middle-aged' versus 'midlife' and the empowerment they found in redefining their identity. They touch on the lack of open discussions about aging, sex, and body changes, emphasizing the need for a supportive community. This episode aims to normalize these conversations and provide a space for women to feel seen and heard as they navigate this phase of life.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction and Disclaimer
01:25 The Origin of 'Midlife Mavens'
02:27 Emotional Reactions to Aging
05:26 Psychological Perspectives on Midlife
07:54 The Shift in Identity and Roles
11:24 Societal Expectations and Appearance
19:48 The Importance of Open Conversations
26:51 Generational Labels and Identity
30:50 Conclusion and Contact Information
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
Citations:
1. The quote Carol cites in today's episode is from a blog post written by Doris Bersing, PhD on her blog, "Older Women: The Double Standards of Aging" (https://www.dorisbersing.com/blog/older-women-double-standard-ofaging)
2. The book Carol mentions: Lisa Mosconi, PhD (2024). "The Menopause Brain: New Science Empowers Women to Navigate the Pivotal Transition with Knowledge and Confidence."
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
 

Season 1: Episode 1: Kickstarting Midlife Mavens: Meet Your Hosts and Discover Our Journey

Introduction to Midlife Mavens Podcast: Navigating Midlife Challenges and Conversations
In this introductory episode of the Midlife Mavens podcast, hosts Marci Burroughs and Carol O'Saben, both psychologists specializing in relationships and sexuality, provide an overview of the podcast's focus. They discuss key themes such as dating, menopause, family dynamics, and healthcare concerns for women in their 30s to 60s and beyond. The hosts share their personal stories, professional backgrounds, and the motivation behind starting the podcast. They emphasize creating a safe space for candid discussions on often-taboo subjects and aim to offer support, insights, and expert advice. The episode also touches on the logistical challenges faced in launching the podcast and invites listener engagement through their Facebook page.
00:00 Introduction to Midlife Mavens
01:26 Meet Your Hosts: Marci and Carol
04:14 The Journey to Psychology
05:58 Reconnecting and Starting Private Practices
07:28 The Birth of the Podcast Idea
09:00 Creating a Safe Space for Conversations
13:25 Navigating Midlife Challenges
15:57 Engaging with the Community
19:09 Upcoming Episodes and Final Thoughts
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://marciburroughsphdcst.com
Carol: https://drosaben.com
Other therapist directories you can use to help you find therapy include:
Psychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiA2JG9BhAuEiwAH_zf3t-0UINw_4OW6at282-_LwDMJ8KY0O6FFvJVl-r065Bax-HjMYrTORoCv6AQAvD_BwE
Mental Health Match: https://mentalhealthmatch.com/
American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists: https://aasect.org
iTherapy: https://itherapy.com/about_our_counselors/