Grace & Grit Podcast

In this conversation with Val Thompson, a woman of Grace & Grit, we dive deep into the reality of midlife for women today. If you’re navigating the fog of hormonal shifts, processing major life transitions, or simply wondering “what’s next?” as you create your second-half-of-life blueprint, this discussion offers both validation and direction. Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode: Practical approaches to reclaim your energy when you feel depleted by life’s demands How to make peace with your “expectations” for how your body is supposed to behave at midlife Mindset shifts to help you embrace restoration as an act of sef-honoring. The truth is, midlife isn’t a crisis—it’s an invitation to reclaim yourself. To stop putting yourself last. To recognize that your healthiest, most fulfilling years can absolutely be ahead of you, not behind you. Listen now if you’re ready to shift from feeling overwhelmed and overscheduled to becoming aligned, empowered, and energized in this magnificent midlife season. Learn more and listen here: https://graceandgrit.com/podcast-388 MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Free Discovery Call with Val *** ⬇️ Tools to rock your second act. ✅ Start Here: https://graceandgrit.com/start-here/ ✅ Listen to the Podcast: https://graceandgrit.com/podcast ✅ Weekly Bit of Grace & Grit: https://graceandgrit.com/rumbleandrise ✅ ️Leave a Podcast Review: https://graceandgrit.com/podcastreview ✅ Rumble & Rise with Courtney: https://graceandgrit.com/readytorumble ✅ Subscribe on YouTube: https://graceandgrit.com/youtube-subscribe ✅ Visit us online: https://graceandgrit.com  

While the world steals your attention in a thousand different ways, your one wild and precious life is happening right now. In this episode of Grace & Grit, I explore the revolutionary power of presence for midlife women and why it’s the missing ingredient in truly experiencing this rich stage of life. I share my personal journey with presence (including how I learned this lesson the hard way!) and guide you through understanding what true presence looks like amid hormonal fluctuations, career evolutions, and relationship shifts. You’ll discover: Why your body is your most reliable anchor to the present moment and how to use physical sensations to interrupt the mind’s tendency to time-travel The top “presence thieves” that are robbing midlife women of their most precious moments Simple yet powerful practices that don’t require adding more to your already full plate This conversation isn’t about perfecting yet another aspect of your life…it’s about fully inhabiting the remarkable journey you’re already on. I’ve watched too many brilliant women sleepwalk through their most potent years, and I’m on a mission to change that. Your presence is revolutionary in a world designed to scatter your attention. You can listen here: http://graceandgrit.com/podcast-387 Download my free “Midlife Presence Revolution” guide here https://graceandgrit.com/resources for additional support in reclaiming your presence and experiencing the depth and richness that only comes when you’re fully here, fully you. MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE FREE Midlife Presence Revolution Guide: https://graceandgrit.com/resources *** ⬇️ Tools to rock your second act. ✅ Start Here: https://graceandgrit.com/start-here/ ✅ Listen to the Podcast: https://graceandgrit.com/podcast ✅ Weekly Bit of Grace & Grit: https://graceandgrit.com/rumbleandrise ✅ ️Leave a Podcast Review: https://graceandgrit.com/podcastreview ✅ Rumble & Rise with Courtney: https://graceandgrit.com/readytorumble ✅ Subscribe on YouTube: https://graceandgrit.com/youtube-subscribe ✅ Visit us online: https://graceandgrit.com      

In this episode, I dive deep into a topic that’s rarely discussed but incredibly important: the art of pleasure at midlife. I’m joined by Laini Gray as we explore why many women have either disconnected from intentional pleasure or are caught in cycles of false pleasures that don’t truly satisfy. We cover: The science behind pleasure – How our brain chemistry works and why pleasure matters for our health and longevity False pleasures vs. true pleasures – Understanding the difference between momentary escapes and genuine joy The unique challenges midlife women face – Why we struggle to prioritize pleasure and how societal messaging contributes Practical strategies – Simple ways to incorporate more meaningful pleasure into your daily life This conversation isn’t just about indulgence—it’s about reclaiming your right to joy and making pleasure a non-negotiable part of your wellness journey. If you’ve been feeling disconnected from what truly brings you happiness, this episode is your permission slip to prioritize pleasure again. Learn more and listen here: https://graceandgrit.com/podcast-386 Have a listen and share this with a midlife woman who might need to hear the message. MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Pleasure Principles Masterclass https://graceandgrit.com/pleasure-principles *** ⬇️ Tools to rock your second act. ✅ Start Here: https://graceandgrit.com/start-here/ ✅ Listen to the Podcast: https://graceandgrit.com/podcast ✅ Weekly Bit of Grace & Grit: https://graceandgrit.com/rumbleandrise ✅ ️Leave a Podcast Review: https://graceandgrit.com/podcastreview ✅ Rumble & Rise with Courtney: https://graceandgrit.com/readytorumble ✅ Subscribe on YouTube: https://graceandgrit.com/youtube-subscribe ✅ Visit us online: https://graceandgrit.com

In this episode of the Grace & Grit podcast, I help listeners explore the concept of unnecessary labor and how releasing these burdens can transform your midlife health and vitality: Discover what “unnecessary labor” is and why it’s particularly harmful during the midlife transition Understand the direct connection between unnecessary labor and hormonal imbalance, chronic stress, and inflammation Identify the warning signs that you’re carrying too much and the thought patterns perpetuating this cycle Get practical first steps to put down what isn’t yours to carry Access the free guide “Permission to Put It Down” for deeper insights and tools This episode provides a powerful reframe: setting down unnecessary burdens isn’t selfish—it’s essential medicine for your midlife body and mind. You can listen here: https://graceandgrit.com/podcast-385 MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Grab your FREE Permission to Put It Down Guide  https://graceandgrit.com/resources *** ⬇️ Tools to rock your second act. ✅ Start Here: https://graceandgrit.com/start-here/ ✅ Listen to the Podcast: https://graceandgrit.com/podcast ✅ Weekly Bit of Grace & Grit: https://graceandgrit.com/rumbleandrise ✅ ️Leave a Podcast Review: https://graceandgrit.com/podcastreview ✅ Rumble & Rise with Courtney: https://graceandgrit.com/readytorumble ✅ Subscribe on YouTube: https://graceandgrit.com/youtube-subscribe ✅ Visit us online: https://graceandgrit.com

In this episode, we dive deep into what might be the most overlooked aspect of wellness in midlife: our relationships. While we’re busy chasing the perfect diet, exercise routine, or supplement regimen, the true foundation of our health may actually be the quality of our connections—with others, with food, with movement, and most importantly, with ourselves. Joined by the insightful Laini Gray, we explore how to conduct a thorough “relationship audit” across all domains of life. We discuss practical strategies for assessing which relationships energize us versus deplete us, and provide actionable steps for setting boundaries, nurturing positive connections, and healing the relationships that impact our health daily. In this episode, you’ll discover: Why healthy relationships might be more important for your wellbeing than the “perfect” protocol How to recognize when a relationship is depleting rather than nourishing you Practical strategies for setting boundaries and transforming unhealthy connections The critical role your relationship with yourself plays in determining all other relationships Specific action steps to start improving your relationship wellness today Have a listen and share this with a midlife woman who might need to hear the message. Learn more and listen here: https://graceandgrit.com/podcast-384 MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Relationship Alchemy Masterclass: https://graceandgrit.com/relationship-alchemy *** ⬇️ Tools to rock your second act. ✅ Start Here: https://graceandgrit.com/start-here/ ✅ Listen to the Podcast: https://graceandgrit.com/podcast ✅ Weekly Bit of Grace & Grit: https://graceandgrit.com/rumbleandrise ✅ ️Leave a Podcast Review: https://graceandgrit.com/podcastreview ✅ Rumble & Rise with Courtney: https://graceandgrit.com/readytorumble ✅ Subscribe on YouTube: https://graceandgrit.com/youtube-subscribe ✅ Visit us online: https://graceandgrit.com  

Are sleepless nights and anxiety about sleep stealing the vitality from you at midlife? In this episode, we dive deep into the science of sleep, exploring evidence-based strategies that go beyond conventional wisdom. Key Points: The surprising truth about sleep trackers and who should (or shouldn’t) use them Understanding CBTI: The gold standard treatment for insomnia Practical tips for using natural light to optimize your sleep cycle Why the “8-hour sleep rule” might be holding you back Join holistic sleep coach Morgan Adams as she shares transformative insights on reclaiming your relationship with sleep. As a two-time breast cancer survivor and wellness advocate, Morgan brings a unique perspective on how quality sleep connects to overall health and disease prevention. Have a listen and, if it lands for you, consider sharing it with another woman who might reap value from it. Learn more and listen here: https://graceandgrit.com/podcast-383 MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Free Guide on Managing Wakeups Sleep Consultation with Morgan Adams *** ⬇️ Tools to rock your second act. ✅ Start Here: https://graceandgrit.com/start-here/ ✅ Listen to the Podcast: https://graceandgrit.com/podcast ✅ Weekly Bit of Grace & Grit: https://graceandgrit.com/rumbleandrise ✅ ️Leave a Podcast Review: https://graceandgrit.com/podcastreview ✅ Rumble & Rise with Courtney: https://graceandgrit.com/readytorumble ✅ Subscribe on YouTube: https://graceandgrit.com/youtube-subscribe ✅ Visit us online: https://graceandgrit.com

In this episode, we are diving deep into the world of midlife wellness marketing, helping you develop a keen “bullsh*t detector” to navigate through misleading claims and predatory tactics. Equipping you with practical tools to make informed decisions about your health and wellness journey. Key Points: Exploration of common marketing red flags in the midlife wellness industry, including fear-based messaging and “miracle” solutions Discussion of how predatory marketing impacts women’s mental health, finances, and overall wellbeing Practical guidance on identifying quality wellness resources Actionable steps for evaluating health claims and building a trusted network of professionals I’m passionate about this topic because I’ve seen too many smart, capable women get caught up in the hype, spending their hard-earned money on products and programs that just don’t deliver. This episode will give you the tools you need to cut through the noise and make choices that actually serve your health and wellbeing. You can listen here: https://graceandgrit.com/podcast-382 Know a woman who could benefit from this message? Share this with her! MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE GET FREE ACCESS to Base Camp: Back to Basics 21-Day Challenge - Leave a review for the Grace & Grit podcast on your favorite platform, screenshot it, and email it to me at courtney@graceandgrit.com, and I will send you a free access coupon! (Challenge begins June 2nd!) *** ⬇️ Tools to rock your second act. ✅ Start Here: https://graceandgrit.com/start-here/ ✅ Listen to the Podcast: https://graceandgrit.com/podcast ✅ Weekly Bit of Grace & Grit: https://graceandgrit.com/rumbleandrise ✅ ️Leave a Podcast Review: https://graceandgrit.com/podcastreview ✅ Rumble & Rise with Courtney: https://graceandgrit.com/readytorumble ✅ Subscribe on YouTube: https://graceandgrit.com/youtube-subscribe ✅ Visit us online: https://graceandgrit.com    

In this episode of the Grace & Grit podcast, we explore the evolving landscape of wellness strategies, focusing on how pharmaceutical supports can be integrated into a holistic approach to health for midlife wellness. We discuss the importance of maintaining fundamental wellness practices while considering medical interventions as complementary tools rather than replacements. Key Points from this Episode: Understanding the role of pharmaceutical supports, including hormone therapy, weight management medications, and prescribed supplements in modern wellness The critical importance of maintaining fundamental health practices like hydration, sleep, nutrition, mindset, and movement Why taking an integrated approach (combining medical interventions with basic wellness practices) leads to better outcomes This episode emphasizes that while modern medical interventions can be valuable tools in our wellness journey, they work best when built upon a strong foundation of basic health practices. The message is clear: it’s not about choosing between medical supports and fundamentals – it’s about thoughtfully combining both for optimal results. You can listen here: https://graceandgrit.com/podcast-381 MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE GET FREE ACCESS to Base Camp: Back to Basics 21-Day Challenge Leave a review for the Grace & Grit podcast on your favorite platform, screenshot it and send it to me at courtney@graceandgrit.com and I will send you a free access coupon when registration opens next week! (Challenge begins June 2nd!)   *** ⬇️ Tools to rock your second act. ✅ Start Here: https://graceandgrit.com/start-here/ ✅ Listen to the Podcast: https://graceandgrit.com/podcast ✅ Weekly Bit of Grace & Grit: https://graceandgrit.com/rumbleandrise ✅ ️Leave a Podcast Review: https://graceandgrit.com/podcastreview ✅ Rumble & Rise with Courtney: https://graceandgrit.com/readytorumble ✅ Subscribe on YouTube: https://graceandgrit.com/youtube-subscribe ✅ Visit us online: https://graceandgrit.com  

Join Laini Gray and I as we explore the vital skill of boundary setting for women in midlife. Together, we dive deep into why maintaining healthy boundaries becomes increasingly important during midlife transitions and how the ability to say “no” can be the most powerful “yes” you can give yourself. Drawing from both our personal experiences and scientific research, I offer practical strategies for establishing and maintaining boundaries without guilt. Our conversation addresses common challenges, such as people-pleasing tendencies, the fear of disappointment, and the impact of cultural expectations on women’s ability to set boundaries. In this episode, we explore… How to recognize the signs of healthy versus unhealthy boundaries in your life. Practical techniques for communicating boundaries effectively without over-explaining or apologizing. Why boundary setting becomes particularly crucial during midlife transitions. Actionable steps for dealing with pushback when establishing new boundaries. Do you know a woman who might benefit from this message? Share this with her! MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Grace-Filled Boundary Setting Masterclass: https://graceandgrit.com/masterclass *** ⬇️ Tools to rock your second act. ✅ Start Here: https://graceandgrit.com/start-here/ ✅ Listen to the Podcast: https://graceandgrit.com/podcast ✅ Weekly Bit of Grace & Grit: https://graceandgrit.com/rumbleandrise ✅ ️Leave a Podcast Review: https://graceandgrit.com/podcastreview ✅ Rumble & Rise with Courtney: https://graceandgrit.com/readytorumble ✅ Subscribe on YouTube: https://graceandgrit.com/youtube-subscribe ✅ Visit us online: https://graceandgrit.com  

In this episode of the Grace & Grit podcast, I sit down with gerontologist and global menopause researcher Zora Benhamou for a fascinating discussion about menopause through a worldwide lens. Drawing from her interviews with over 200 women across 50 countries, Zora shares invaluable insights about how different cultures approach this significant life transition. As a self-described nomad who speaks six languages, Zora brings a unique perspective to our conversation about biohacking menopause and challenging societal stigmas around aging. We explore both the scientific and cultural aspects of menopause, while discussing practical strategies for women to thrive during this transformative phase of life. Key topics we explore: The various stages of menopause and why understanding them is crucial for every woman’s journey Practical biohacking strategies for managing common menopause symptoms The connection between gerontology and menopause, and why focusing on longevity matters How different cultures around the world approach and support women through menopause Take a listen and share with the women in your life who might also benefit from the episode. You can listen here: https://graceandgrit.com/podcast-379 MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE Hack My Age Website: https://hackmyage.com/ Hack My Age Freebies: https://hackmyage.com/freebies/ Hack My Age Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hackmyage/ *** ⬇️ Tools to rock your second act. ✅ Start Here: https://graceandgrit.com/start-here/ ✅ Listen to the Podcast: https://graceandgrit.com/podcast ✅ Weekly Bit of Grace & Grit: https://graceandgrit.com/rumbleandrise ✅ ️Leave a Podcast Review: https://graceandgrit.com/podcastreview ✅ Rumble & Rise with Courtney: https://graceandgrit.com/readytorumble ✅ Subscribe on YouTube: https://graceandgrit.com/youtube-subscribe ✅ Visit us online: https://graceandgrit.com