Midlife Mavens

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
 

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
 

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
 

In this episode of the Midlife Mavens podcast, hosts Marci Burroughs and Carol O'Saben delve into the complexities of dating in midlife. They discuss the unique challenges faced by women in their 40s, 50s, 60s, and beyond, including the difficulties of meeting new people, the impact of relocation, and balancing new relationships with existing responsibilities. They provide practical advice on putting oneself out there, staying safe while online dating, and the importance of developing new hobbies. The conversation also touches on the sensitive topics of dating after divorce or widowhood, including the emotional and financial ramifications. Throughout, the hosts emphasize the need for bravery, open communication, and the exploration of new ways to find companionship and love. They also remind listeners that while the podcast is for educational purposes, seeking professional therapy can be beneficial for navigating these life changes.
00:00 Introduction to Midlife Mavens
01:23 Today's Topic: Dating in Midlife
01:42 Challenges of Meeting People in Midlife
04:17 Online Dating: Pros and Cons
05:35 Building New Hobbies and Social Circles
08:55 Navigating Relationships and Family Dynamics
14:49 Safety and Honesty in Online Dating
17:00 Sex and Dating in Midlife
18:58 When to Start Dating Again
21:58 Financial and Legal Considerations
25:08 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
 
Here's the link for our “Ask Us Anything” Form:  https://forms.gle/3bo4KuaXfGxCUS9C9
And here's the link for the "Torching the Haystack" article Carol mentions in this episode:  https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/online-dating-was-hell-then-i-tried-1-thing-that-turned-out-to-be-a-total-game-changer_uk_64edfc34e4b0293d9286828e
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
 

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

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
 

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
 

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