I Don’t Do It All by Myself

My journey from a health professional battling with my own vices to someone who preaches wellness wasn't an overnight transformation. It began with a heart-wrenching wake-up call during my mother's illness and led me down a path of discovery—realizing that knowledge alone isn't enough to foster the change we seek. 

That's why we're unwrapping the complex layers that lie between understanding health and living it, highlighting the indispensable role of personalized coaching. By sharing my own experiences, I aim to illuminate how tailored insights and accountability can revolutionize our approach, turning information into action for a healthier, more fulfilling life.

This episode isn't just about what to do; it's about setting goals that resonate and creating a vision that sticks. We dissect the SMART framework to show how effective goal-setting can lead to remarkable achievements when aligned with personal values. 

As we explore the need for regular check-ins and customized coaching strategies, we also tackle the psychological roadblocks, such as stress and body image, that can derail our progress. I invite you to consider how overcoming limiting beliefs through reframed thinking can clear the path toward your health aspirations. 

Join us on this transformative journey, and let's forge a roadmap to your well-being together.

Chapter Summaries

Bridging the Gap (0:00:05)

Personal transformation, the gap between knowledge and action, the importance of coaching, and seeking a healthier path.

Health Goals Through Personalized Coaching (0:19:19) 

Setting meaningful goals aligned with values, addressing psychological factors, and reframing limiting beliefs for personal health coaching.

Get full show notes and more information here: https://elizabethsherman.com/164

What happens when the invincibility of youth starts to fade, and the reality of aging and health decline sets in? Can men truly embrace self-care and emotional vulnerability as they cross over the age of 40? 

Join us as we navigate these thought-provoking questions with the unique insights of our esteemed guest, Craig Spear, a renowned men's health and weight loss coach. 

Craig Spear, once a professional athlete and now a passionate advocate for men’s health, shares his journey and his mission to help men, particularly those over 40. He dives into his experiences of creating inclusive gym environments and explores the emotional pain and fears many men face that lead them to seek help. 

With Craig’s expert guidance, we uncover the obstacles around self-care and emotional engagement, offering pragmatic advice on overcoming these hurdles. This deep-dive conversation unravels the complexities around defining optimal health and how it varies for each individual.

My final segment with Craig explores the essential health tips specifically designed for men over 40. He shares valuable insights from his podcast, ‘Man in the Arena,’ among other resources he offers. We address the challenge of managing emotions without resorting to harmful coping mechanisms such as overeating, overdrinking, or overworking. 

This episode proves to be a goldmine for those seeking to understand the unique health challenges men confront, especially as they age. You don’t want to miss this enlightening episode, packed with insights and practical tips for achieving optimal health.

About Craig Spear

Meet Craig Spear, a former CFL player turned Ironman athlete, Entrepreneur, and Weight Loss Coach. As he reached his 40s, Craig noticed a decline in his health and decided to take charge. 

Recognizing the power of a solid plan and support, he created ‘The Spear Method,’ a tailored approach designed to assist men over 40 in losing weight and shifting their mindset towards healthier living. 

Craig's journey from sports to wellness entrepreneurship serves as an inspiring narrative, and he now invites others to connect with him to embark on their own transformative health and weight loss journeys. 

If you're ready to prioritize your well-being, Craig Spear is here to help you create your next success.

Chapter Summaries

Men's Health and Weight Loss Coaching (0:00:04)

Craig Spear is a men's health and weight loss coach for men over 40, with a degree in Kinesiology and Psychology and CFL experience, creating an inclusive gym environment and now offering virtual coaching.

Health Coaching for Men Over 40 (0:06:58)

Craig Spear helps men facing physical and emotional pain to achieve optimal health.

Navigating Emotions and Vulnerability in Men (0:17:37)

Men discuss internal resistance, shame, vulnerability, and emotion management to promote self-care.

Health Tips for Men Over 40 (0:30:36)

Men's health coach Craig Spear shares how to overcome fears and reach optimal health, discussed on his podcast Man in the Arena.

Get full show notes and more information here: https://elizabethsherman.com/163

I remember the exact moment when I realized that my food diary had become my prison. Every calorie counted, every nutrient tracked, I was trapped in a relentless cycle where my self-worth hinged on my meal choices. 

Welcome to a heartfelt episode of the Total Health in Midlife podcast, where I take you through my transformative journey from the meticulous world of food logging to the liberating practice of intuitive eating. Together, we'll explore how to break free from the shackles of the food diary and learn to trust our body's natural cues to lead us toward a healthier, more joy-filled way of eating.

Throughout the episode, I dive into the hidden dangers of food logging perfectionism, weaving in stories of individuals like my client Jerry, whose struggle with habit tracking brought light to the necessity of self-compassion in our eating journey. 

We'll discuss the power of adopting a beginner's mindset and how to use food logging as a stepping stone toward greater self-awareness and growth, rather than a strict measure of virtue. I'll guide you through the complex emotions that often accompany eating habits and share strategies on how to foster resilience and self-compassion as we navigate our relationship with food.

Join me as I discuss finding a sustainable balance in our food choices, where treats are no longer the enemy and moderation becomes our friend. I'll share insights into the transition from rigid tracking to savoring meals and how to include the foods we love without an ounce of guilt. 

By the end of this episode, you'll be equipped with the tools to cultivate a peaceful, satisfying eating experience that honors your health goals and celebrates the joy of eating. Unwrap those earbuds and let's embark on this journey to food freedom together.

Chapter Summaries

Ditching Food Logging for Intuitive Eating (0:00:04) 

Food logging can negatively impact our relationship with food and self-worth, but intuitive eating offers a healthier, more balanced approach.

The Pitfalls of Food Logging (0:06:12) 

Nature's moral compass: Avoid perfectionism in food logging, adopt a beginner's mindset, and focus on internal satisfaction.

Food Logging and Mindset Shifts (0:20:58) 

Food logging can be emotionally challenging, but mindset shifts and photo tracking offer sustainable alternatives.

Finding Balance in Food Choices (0:34:37) 

A mindful and balanced approach to eating, including treats without guilt, trusting the body's cues, and savoring meals with peace and satisfaction.

Get full show notes and more information here: https://elizabethsherman.com/podcast/162

Are your health habits taking a backseat to your people-pleasing tendencies? 

Break free from the cycle with me, Elizabeth Sherman, as I tackle the subtle ways saying 'yes' too often can negatively impact your well-being. As I share my personal experiences and professional insights, I shed light on the often-overlooked connection between people-pleasing behaviors and personal health choices. 

From the family table where we silence our dietary preferences to the workplace, where we overcommit at the cost of our exercise routines, we explore the ramifications of not voicing our needs. Join me to learn how to set boundaries and choose self-care without an ounce of guilt.

This episode is a heart-to-heart for anyone, particularly women in midlife, who feels the tug-of-war between caring for others and caring for oneself. As we navigate the complex landscape of hormonal changes, energy management, and food choices, we underscore the importance of self-respect and self-compassion during this transformative time. 

I dive into personal growth, boundary setting, and ways to infuse joy into your daily life. It's more than a conversation; it's a movement towards living authentically and prioritizing your health and happiness. So, tune in and take the first step towards reclaiming the life you deserve.

Chapter Summaries

People Pleasing's Impact on Health Habits (0:00:04) 

People pleasing impacts health habits, but prioritizing self-care is necessary for lasting change and empowerment.

People-Pleasing's Impact on Health and Happiness (0:05:30)

People-pleasing can harm our health goals by neglecting our needs and prioritizing others, leading to resentment and imbalance.

The Impact of People-Pleasing on Health (0:17:32)

Childhood people-pleasing can lead to self-abandonment, but self-care and boundaries can reclaim self-worth, especially for women in midlife.

Get full show notes and more information here: https://elizabethsherman.com/161

As I navigated the waves of midlife, I found myself shedding the layers of a people-pleaser, much like the leaves fall from the trees in autumn. It's a transformation that many women can relate to, and it's exactly why I invited Sara Fisk, the voice behind the Ex-Good Girl Podcast, to join me in a heart-to-heart conversation about this significant phase of life. 

We explored the often rocky terrain of midlife and women's health, discussing how to practice self-care authentically and how to deal with the sometimes dismissive medical community when it comes to menopause. Our chat brought to light the need for self-awareness as we navigate the societal shifts and personal changes that come with this stage in life.

Our relationship with food is as complex as the most intricate of dances, and Sara and I took a moment to step into the rhythm of this topic. We shared our personal stories, revealing the cultural pressures that have shaped our views on food and body image. 

Through our conversation, it became evident that our dietary choices are reflections of how we care for ourselves, and we should make them based on our satisfaction, not on the desire to conform to external expectations. We peeled back the layers of emotion that often accompany our eating habits, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries for a balanced and mindful approach to both our plates and our feelings.

Wrapping up our heartfelt dialogue, we turned our attention to the power of self-advocacy and the critical role of embracing personal desires when it comes to our health and wellness. Sara and I underscored the importance of having a supportive community, especially as we face the challenges and transitions of midlife. 

We shared how coaching can serve as a guiding light through these times, offering encouragement and a space for celebrating personal victories. Leaving our listeners with gratitude, we hoped to inspire and support everyone on their unique journeys toward health and self-discovery.

About Sara Fisk

Sara Bybee Fisk is a Master Certified Coach and Instructor who teaches women how to tame the rampant people-pleasing, perfectionism, and codependency that is causing them so much frustration and resentment. 

She is an anxious optimist and born-again feminist who listens to more books than she sits down to read. She loves a good hike, good dark chocolate, and good conversations. 

Her big dreams include learning to sail and to sing and dance like JLo and helping thousands of women create the big, juicy lives they want to be living. She is a wife and mom of 5 and she enjoys those roles most of the time. 

Chapter Summaries

Navigating Midlife and Women's Health (0:00:03) 

Midlife, self-care, and breaking free from people-pleasing habits are discussed, along with the transformative potential of this life phase.

Developing a Healthy Relationship With Food (0:14:03)

Food, love, and body image are intertwined in our culture, influenced by societal pressures and misconceptions about labeling foods.

The Relationship Between Food and Emotions (0:18:10) 

Nature's impact on our emotional well-being, setting boundaries with food and people, and the journey towards self-awareness.

Exploring Self-Awareness and Embracing Personal Desires (0:28:48)

Self-compassion, body acceptance, and setting boundaries for personal empowerment about food and emotions.

The Importance of Self-Identity and Self-Care (0:36:16) 

Midlife transitions for women involve identity crisis, societal pressures, and the importance of self-love and setting boundaries.

Exploring Relationships and Midlife Health (0:42:05)

Nature's impact on self-advocacy, people-pleasing, and food in midlife transitions, and the importance of boundaries, self-care, and asking for help.

Supporting Health and Wellness Goals (0:48:50)

Prioritizing health, having a support system, and the benefits of coaching for achieving dreams and tackling challenges.

Get full show notes and more information here: https://elizabethsherman.com/160

I remember the moment I realized that my health was not just a product of my genetics, but a canvas I could paint with my choices and actions. It was a profound transformation from feeling like a helpless bystander in my own body to becoming the artist of my well-being. 

On this episode of Total Health in Midlife, I, Elizabeth Sherman, invite you on a journey to unlock the potential of a mindset geared towards health empowerment. 

We'll unearth why we often feel trapped by our genetics and upbringing, and how acknowledging our role in creating our health narratives can lead to profound change. Get ready to challenge old beliefs and embrace the effort it takes to achieve your health goals.

As we peel back the layers of self-pity and victimhood, we discover the resilience of taking personal responsibility for our well-being. Whether you're navigating injuries, health diagnoses, or the everyday challenges that life throws your way, there's a path to a brighter, healthier future. 

In this heart-to-heart, we discuss adapting with grace and strength and forging a compassionate alliance with your body. By the end of our time together, you'll be equipped with insights and practical advice that will inspire you to craft a life marked by vitality and fulfillment. 

So, press play and join us as we step into a space of confidence, self-acceptance, and thriving health.

Chapter Summaries

Unlocking Your Health's Full Potential (0:00:05) 

Mindset shifts from self-pity to empowerment in health, acknowledging effort and calorie balance, and overcoming the victim mindset.

From Victim to Health Responsibility (0:05:47) 

Taking responsibility for our health journey, adapting to injuries and diagnoses, and empowering ourselves to prioritize well-being.

Building a Thriving Future (0:19:31) 

Prioritize well-being, embrace health and self-acceptance, take responsibility for the future, and find fulfillment on a transformative journey.

Get full show notes and more information here: https://elizabethsherman.com/159

I'll never forget the day I realized self-care wasn't just about me. It was during a particularly hectic week when, despite the chaos, I took time for a morning walk and it astonishingly transformed my entire day, making me more present for my family and more productive at work. 

In this episode, we'll traverse the misunderstood landscape of self-care, especially during the transformative midlife years. Join me, Elizabeth Sherman, as I debunk the myth of self-care as a selfish luxury and reframe it as an essential practice that radiates benefits well beyond oneself. 

I'll share stories and insights drawn from my coaching experiences that illuminate how investing in our well-being enriches every role we play—from parenting to professional endeavors.

We'll also examine Maria's inspiring narrative, showcasing how integrating simple health habits like hydration, quality sleep, and mindful eating can catalyze profound improvements across various facets of life. I'll provide you with actionable strategies to seamlessly incorporate self-care into your busy schedule, how to shed the unwarranted guilt around taking time for yourself, and the importance of establishing a legacy of health. 

By the end of our journey, you'll be equipped with the understanding that each small step towards self-care is a leap towards a more vibrant and fulfilling life, not just for you, but for everyone whose lives you touch.

Chapter Summaries

The Ripple Effect of Self-Care (0:00:04) 

Self-care is not selfish, it benefits all aspects of life and we deserve to prioritize our well-being.

Small Steps Improve Health (0:11:13) 

Physical, mental, and emotional health are interconnected, and small changes can lead to sustainable improvements in well-being.

The Ripple Effect of Prioritizing Health (0:18:42)

Small health changes have a cumulative effect on well-being, including walking, hydration, vegetables, mindful eating, and quality sleep.

Get full show notes and more information here: https://elizabethsherman.com/158

Ever wondered how two ordinary women, Lisa and Stephanie, navigated their struggles with weight and body image? 

Join us as they share their inspiring stories, from discovering intuitive eating and the Feel Good Sisterhood to overcoming menopause setbacks. You'll be captivated by their resilience in the face of adversity and their pursuit of self-confidence and body positivity. 

We break away from the common gym culture and delve into the importance of finding enjoyable, sustainable forms of exercise. Be inspired by our guests' experiences with a year-long program, where they learned to redefine their relationship with food and movement, supported by a sisterhood of women on the same journey. 

Listen, as we unpack emotional eating, explore the complex mind-food connection, and reveal how to make healthier choices without succumbing to guilt and immediate cravings. 

To wrap up, we celebrate the triumphant health transformations of Lisa and Stephanie, illustrating how aligning healthy eating habits can positively impact their lives. They share how the program has not only helped them navigate perimenopause symptoms but also instilled in them a sense of control over their relationship with food. 

Lastly, we dissect the role of vulnerability and flexibility in pursuing health goals. So join us, and let the personal stories and lessons of our brave guests inspire you to embark on your health journey.

Chapter Summaries

Finding Strength and Self-Confidence in Health (0:00:05)

Lisa and Stephanie share their struggles with weight, body image, and health, and how they found support through intuitive eating and Elizabeth's podcast.

Benefits of Walking and Non-Gym Exercise (0:16:36)

Women share doubts about committing to a year-long fitness program, emphasizing enjoyable movement and the role of play.

Transformation and Support in a Program (0:22:43) 

Stephanie and Lisa credit a year-long program for improving their relationship with food, reducing emotional eating, and creating lasting changes in their lives.

Understanding and Overcoming Emotional Eating (0:36:38)

Participants share experiences of connecting mind and food choices to avoid emotional eating and make healthier decisions.

Healthier Eating and Lifestyle Impacts (0:41:51)

Lisa and Elizabeth share their journey with food and body image, discussing struggles, positive effects, and newfound freedom through the program.

Vulnerability and Flexibility in Pursuing Goals (0:52:43)

Setting and achieving goals in health and fitness, embracing vulnerability, understanding the why, and finding what works for each individual.

 Get full show notes and more information here: https://elizabethsherman.com/157

 

How would you redefine aging? 

This episode is all about that - not just adding years to your life, but adding life to your years. We dive into the intriguing contrast of health span versus lifespan and underline the importance of proactive health management for a vibrant future. 

Hear firsthand stories of individuals thriving in their later years and those facing challenges, drawing attention to the long-term impact of our daily habits on our health and finances.

Leaping simply surviving to thriving, we discuss the power of physical activities, mental and emotional well-being, and independence in living a fulfilling health span. 

Have you ever wondered about the real impact of investing in your health? Discover how mindset, habits, and health coaching can pave the way for a healthier, happier future. 

Remember, every step counts when it comes to a fulfilling health span. So, are you ready to make those choices that lead to vibrant aging?

Chapter Summaries

Thriving in Aging (0:00:04) 

Healthspan vs. lifespan, living well, small changes, thriving, physical activities, mental and emotional well-being, independence, long and healthy life.

Invest in Health for Vibrant Future (0:12:20) 

Investing in our health has long-term benefits, mindset is crucial, and health coaching offers empowerment.

The Importance of Health and Aging (0:20:32) 

Healthspan and lifespan are discussed, emphasizing the importance of living better and making healthy choices at any age.

Get full show notes and more information here: https://elizabethsherman.com/156

Are you ready to ditch the diet culture and quick fixes, and embrace a richer, more meaningful definition of health and wellness in midlife?

Welcome to Total Health in Midlife, a podcast that goes beyond the surface level to explore a holistic approach to well-being. We'll challenge traditional weight-loss narratives and explore the science of aging, self-care, and extending our health span.

What does it truly mean to be healthy in midlife? 

It's not just about the physical, it's about creating a robust, fulfilling life for ourselves and the future. We'll explore the undeniable importance of self-compassion, developing a healthy relationship with ourselves, and fostering connection with our communities.

Join me as we unpack essential topics like menopause, feminism, and social justice through the lens of health and well-being. We'll dive into the power of self-care, navigate the challenges of aging, and discover how self-compassion can be a game-changer in our health journey.

Tune in to Total Health in Midlife and redefine your vision for a healthy, satisfying midlife and beyond.

Chapter Summaries:

Redefining Health in Midlife (0:00:04) 

Prioritizing holistic well-being, mental and emotional health, and preparing for a fulfilling future.

Total Health and Wellness in Midlife (0:10:41)

Exploring self-care, healthy aging, retirement, menopause, feminism, community, and self-compassion.

Get ready to unlock a richer understanding of health and wellness and empower yourself to thrive in midlife and beyond.

Get full show notes and more information here: https://elizabethsherman.com/155