The Midlife Chrysalis Barbara Waxman: How to Flourish and Find Purpose in Midlife
Nov 17, 2025
Barbara Waxman, a gerontologist and author of The Middle Essence Manifesto, redefines midlife as a time of renewal rather than crisis. She introduces the concept of "Middleessence," highlighting its importance in personal growth. Topics include the benefits of happiness after 50, the transformative Energy Audit, and the seven lifestyle levers for thriving. Waxman emphasizes the power of mindset over genetics and shares insights on living undiminished, encouraging listeners to embrace joy and meaningful relationships in this vibrant life stage.
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Middleessence As A Distinct Phase
- Middleessence is a life phase starting around 40 where you feel "not young, but not old" and face an internal reckoning.
- Barbara Waxman calls it a stage of identity questioning similar to adolescence but without a built social infrastructure.
Hypothyroid Diagnosis Sparked Her Work
- Barbara recounts early-40s exhaustion dismissed by a doctor until an endocrinologist found hypothyroidism and a goiter.
- Treating the condition changed her energy and propelled her work on energy and longevity.
Lifestyle Choices Drive Longevity
- Less than 20% of longevity is genetics; lifestyle choices drive about 80% of how long and well we live.
- Waxman reframes lifestyle medicine to aim for being "undiminished" rather than only preventing disease.
