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What if the way we've been taught to think about aging is completely backwards? What if feeling exhausted, gaining weight, losing muscle, and struggling with brain fog isn't actually inevitable? In this episode of The Art of Living Well Podcast®, Marnie and Stephanie sit down with physician Dr. Jerry Mixon, who has spent the last 30 years focused on longevity medicine after realizing, at 50, that treating disease after it appears wasn't enough. Dr. Mixon shares his own turning point (including the office chair moment that finally got his attention), then walks through why testosterone, not estrogen, is actually a woman's primary hormone, why "normal" lab results don't always mean optimal, and why muscle functions almost like its own gland in the body. They also get into the real risks of losing muscle on GLP-1 medications, why BMI is a flawed metric for midlife women, and what walking pace can tell you about long-term health. This is a deep, detail-rich conversation, so if you've ever been told your labs are "normal" but still felt off, or you're curious about hormone therapy, muscle loss, or where to start with limited time and budget, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways: Testosterone, not estrogen, is a woman's primary sex hormone by volume, and it declines sharply through midlife Muscle functions almost like an active gland, releasing proteins that influence immune function, brain health, and metabolism "Normal" lab results are often built around average reference ranges, not what's optimal for how you actually want to feel BMI doesn't distinguish muscle from fat, which makes it a poor metric for midlife women focused on body composition Walking pace is one of the simplest, most telling indicators of long-term physical function GLP-1 medications can come with meaningful muscle loss if protein intake and resistance training aren't part of the plan How a hormone is delivered (oral pill vs. topical cream) can matter as much as which hormone is used Regular lab testing against your own personal baseline, not just population averages, gives a clearer picture of what's actually changing Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome and Guest Introduction: Dr. Jerry Mixon  00:46 From Overweight Doctor to Longevity Physician: Dr. Mixon's Turning Point 01:48 The Story That Changed Everything: Stuck to His Own Office Chair 02:46 Why Longevity Medicine Was Once Only for the Ultra-Wealthy 04:44 30 Years Later: Life at (Nearly) 80 06:09 Testosterone: The Hormone Women Are Often Missing 07:26 Why Lab Reports Compare Estrogen and Testosterone in a Misleading Way 08:49 What Testosterone Actually Does for a Woman's Body 10:03 Addressing the "Will Testosterone Make Me Look More Masculine?" Question 11:52 Why So Many Midlife Women Are on an Antidepressant or Anti-Anxiety Medication 12:31 Do Testosterone-Boosting Supplements Actually Work? 13:04 Inside the Clinic: Custom Compounded Hormone Creams 14:36 Why Regular Lab Testing Against Your Own Baseline Matters 15:30 Dr. Mixon's Four Rules of Medicine 18:26 How Long It Takes Women (vs. Men) to Start Feeling Better 20:27 Why Muscle Is One of the Most Important Organs for Longevity 22:14 The Exercise and Cancer Survival Connection 23:25 Fat Tissue, Senescent Cells, and Why They Matter 25:04 Why Every Doctor's Office Needs More Than a Scale 25:55 The Problem With BMI, Even for Athletes 26:16 Fat-to-Muscle Ratios: What's Actually Healthy for Women 27:54 What Real Strength Training Looks Like (and Why Stairs Beat Treadmills) 29:49 Why Most Midlife Women Need to Walk Before They Run 30:47 Walking Speed as a Longevity Indicator 31:20 Why Height and Body Proportions Change the Numbers 33:58 A Simple Way to Track and Improve Your Walking Pace 36:09 The Biggest Mistake Women Make When Trying to Lose Weight 37:55 GLP-1s and the Real Risk of Losing Muscle Along With Fat 41:12 The Gold Standard for Measuring Body Composition: DEXA Scans 42:59 Why Bone Density Starts Declining Decades Before Menopause 44:16 How Hormone Testing Works Across the Menstrual Cycle 53:19 Patches vs. Compounded Creams: What's the Difference? 55:01 Where to Find a Doctor Who Actually Gets This 58:08 What Does the Art of Living Well Mean to You? 59:17 Where to Learn More From Dr. Mixon Resources and Links: Dr. Mixon's Book, Lifelong Longevity Medical Clinic This episode is brought to you by Human Powered Health. Marnie and Stephanie experienced their testing firsthand, including resting metabolic rate, DXA scans, VO2 max, and force plate assessments. Human Powered Health offers personalized assessments, including a new Women's Health Package designed to help women track muscle, bone density, and cardiovascular fitness through perimenopause and menopause. Book your free 15-minute physiologist consult here. Feeling tired, inflamed, or stuck in a cycle of cravings? Our 7-Day Vitality Reboot is also available anytime as a self-paced program, with the same support from us on your own schedule. Save your spot here: https://l.bttr.to/fNSbn Not sure where to start, or want to talk it through first? Book a free discovery call with Marnie and Stephanie. Subscribe to our Substack to get episode updates, wellness tips, and personal reflections from Marnie & Stephanie delivered straight to your inbox. Grab your free Midlife Travel Resilience Checklist here. If you love the show and want to support what we're building, consider a paid subscription for $30 annually. https://theartoflivingwell.substack.com/ Follow & Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofliving_well/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theartoflivingwellpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theartoflivingwel/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gym3jOPdSHwrpM1BmxyJz Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/id1482050468 Connect with Your Hosts: Marnie Dachis Marmet: https://www.instagram.com/zenfullifecoaching Stephanie May Potter: https://www.instagram.com/stephaniemaypotter/

What happens when you trade a typical college spring break for 10 days of silence, no phone, 4 a.m. wake-ups and hours of meditation? This week, we're joined by Lily Lev, a recent University of Michigan graduate who studied biology, health and society. While studying abroad, Lily traveled to Thailand for a 10-day silent meditation retreat—an experience that challenged her physically and mentally and ultimately changed the way she thinks about health, emotions and resilience. In this conversation, Lily shares what those 10 days were really like, why sitting still was harder than staying silent, and the lessons she brought home about non-attachment, loving-kindness, stress and becoming less reactive. We also explore Lily's evolving definition of holistic health, the connection between physical and mental resilience, and the routines she recommends for young adults navigating the transition to college and beyond. IN THIS EPISODE: ✨ What 10 days at a silent meditation retreat actually looked like ✨ Why discomfort became one of Lily's greatest teachers ✨ How non-attachment can change our relationship with difficult emotions ✨ The surprising power of loving-kindness ✨ Why health is about so much more than nutrition and exercise ✨ Lily's advice for creating healthy routines during college TIMESTAMPS: 00:00 – Why Lily chose a 10-day silent meditation retreat in Thailand 04:27 – What a typical day at the retreat looked like 10:20 – The hardest part: learning to sit with discomfort 13:55 – Mental resilience and the lessons Lily brought home 16:34 – Loving-kindness, compassion and letting go of anger 22:01 – Redefining health beyond diet and exercise 26:05 – HYROX, physical challenges and pushing yourself 28:27 – The connection between physical and mental health 29:20 – Lily's advice for navigating college and building healthy routines 32:53 – What the Art of Living Well means to Lily FALL IS THE PERFECT TIME FOR A RESET Fall is the perfect time to press reset. Our 7-day Vitality Reboot gives you a clear, guided path to reducing inflammation and reclaiming your energy, with Marnie and Stephanie in your corner the whole way. You do the work, we provide the roadmap and the support. Join us at https://p.bttr.to/39XDmpQ CONNECT WITH THE ART OF LIVING WELL 💌 Substack Newsletter: https://theartoflivingwell.substack.com/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofliving_well/ 🎧 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gym3jO 🍎 Apple Podcasts: The Art of Living Well Podcast 🌐 Website: https://www.theartoflivingwell.us/ If you enjoyed this episode, please follow the show, leave us a rating and review, and share it with someone who could use this conversation.

Summer just happened, and by September, Marnie and Stephanie are usually scrambling to rebuild their routines from scratch. Not this year. In this episode of The Art of Living Well Podcast®, they recap the summer (the good stuff and the stuff that slipped), then get into what they call their non-negotiables: the floor, not the ceiling. The handful of things they protect no matter how chaotic life gets. They walk through the specifics: how they keep moving even on days with zero free time, why sleep is non-negotiable and how alcohol affects it more than people admit, the daily smoothie and protein-first habit that keeps their blood sugar and energy steady, and the no-phones-at-the-table rule that's harder to enforce than it sounds. Along the way, they talk about why they both still work with coaches themselves, and why that's true no matter how "figured out" your habits are. They close by introducing the Fall 7-Day Vitality Reboot, starting September 27, with both a live cohort and a self-paced option available. Key Takeaways: •Non-negotiables are the floor, not the ceiling — the few things you protect no matter how chaotic life gets •Movement doesn't require a full workout — stairs, short walks, and airport laps all count on the busiest days •Alcohol disrupts sleep more consistently than most people realize, even just one drink •Starting the day with protein, fat, and fiber helps stabilize blood sugar and energy for the rest of the day •Planning ahead, like packing salads or bringing a shaker bottle, makes healthy choices easier when travel throws off your routine •Working with a coach, in any category of life, tends to lead to better outcomes than going it alone •A phone-free table is one of the simplest ways to stay present with the people you're actually with •The Fall Vitality Reboot starts September 27 and offers both a live cohort and a self-paced option Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: 00:00 Welcome Back: Summer Wrap-Up Begins 00:32 Three Things We're Covering Today 01:14 Marnie's Summer Highlights: Family Trip and Montana With Jordan 02:36 The Simple Things: Outdoor Dinners and a $40 Deck Table 04:38 Stephanie's Two-Week Family Trip and Learning to Slow Down 06:08 Introducing Our Non-Negotiables: The Floor, Not the Ceiling 06:40 Non-Negotiable #1: Movement, Even When the Day Falls Apart 08:20 Getting Creative With Movement While Traveling 09:42 Non-Negotiable #2: Sleep and Knowing Your Own Limits 10:53 Why One Drink Disrupts Marnie's Sleep Every Time 11:35 Midlife and Caring Less What Other People Think 12:54 Non-Negotiable #3: The Daily Smoothie and Protein First 14:16 The Backup Plan: Protein on the Go When Life Gets Chaotic 15:15 Hydration on the Road 16:08 Packing Ahead: The Salad-in-a-Jar Story 16:55 The TSA Ice Pack Incident 17:24 Why We Both Still Work With Coaches 19:06 What the Research Says About Coached vs. Non-Coached Outcomes 19:57 Coaches for Every Season of Life 20:38 Non-Negotiable #4: No Phones at the Table 22:24 What Marnie's Daughter's School Says About Texting Back Right Away 23:38 Introducing the Fall Vitality Reboot 23:55 Live Cohort or Self-Paced: Choose What Works for You 24:58 What's the One Non-Negotiable You'll Protect This Fall? Feeling tired, inflamed, or stuck in a cycle of cravings? Join our 7-Day Fall Vitality Reboot starting September 27 and discover how much better you can feel with simple daily habits and a supportive community beside you every step of the way. Click here to save your spot: https://l.bttr.to/fNSbn Not sure where to start, or want to talk it through first? Book a free discovery call with Marnie and Stephanie. Subscribe to our Substack to get episode updates, wellness tips, and personal reflections from Marnie & Stephanie delivered straight to your inbox. Grab your free Midlife Travel Resilience Checklist here. If you love the show and want to support what we're building, consider a paid subscription for $30 annually. https://theartoflivingwell.substack.com/ Follow & Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofliving_well/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theartoflivingwellpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theartoflivingwel/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gym3jOPdSHwrpM1BmxyJz Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/id1482050468 Connect with Your Hosts: Marnie Dachis Marmet: https://www.instagram.com/zenfullifecoaching Stephanie May Potter: https://www.instagram.com/stephaniemaypotter/

What if one tiny carbon molecule could help protect your cells from oxidative stress and support the mitochondria responsible for producing your energy? In this fascinating episode of The Art of Living Well Podcast®, we sit down with Ken Swartz, aka Ken the Scientist, co-founder of C60 Power, to explore Carbon 60 (C60)—a unique form of carbon that Ken first encountered while researching radiation protection in a fusion energy lab. Ken takes us inside the science of C60 and explains why this molecule has gained attention in the longevity and biohacking worlds for its potential role in antioxidant defense, mitochondrial health, cellular energy, inflammation and healthy aging. We break down oxidative stress in simple terms, why mitochondrial function becomes increasingly important as we age, and how C60 differs from familiar antioxidants such as CoQ10 and glutathione. Ken also shares what to look for when choosing a C60 product, including purity, third-party testing, sourcing and packaging. For our midlife listeners, we dig into an especially interesting question: Could supporting mitochondrial health influence the way we experience energy, brain fog and other changes associated with aging? In this episode, you'll learn: What Carbon 60 (C60) actually is—and its surprising connection to fusion-energy research How oxidative stress affects our cells, mitochondria and aging The relationship between mitochondrial function, cellular energy and aging Why brain fog, fatigue and inflammation may be associated with oxidative stress How C60 differs from CoQ10, glutathione and other antioxidants What Ken says about C60 and hormone production—and why women using HRT should discuss supplementation with their healthcare practitioner C60 oil vs. gummies and how the different delivery methods compare What to look for when choosing C60: purity, sourcing, third-party testing and packaging Ways to assess oxidative stress and mitochondrial function What the research does—and does not—tell us about C60 and longevity How topical C60 is being used in skincare Why no supplement replaces the foundations of nutrition, movement, sleep and stress management TIMESTAMPS 00:00 – What is Carbon 60 (C60)? 03:45 – C60, mitochondria and oxidative stress 07:00 – Brain fog, fatigue and inflammation 11:00 – C60, hormones and midlife health 14:30 – How to use C60 and when to expect results 19:45 – How to choose a high-quality C60 product 21:30 – Safety, medications and who should use caution 23:30 – Testing oxidative stress and mitochondrial health 27:30 – C60 for skincare and healthy aging 29:30 – C60 vs. peptides 31:00 – How to get started with C60 Learn more + special listener offer C60 Power: https://shopc60.com Discount code: LIVINGWELL60 C60 research and education: https://www.whatisc60.org ---------------------------------------------------------- Feeling tired, inflamed, or stuck in a cycle of cravings? Join our 7-Day Fall Vitality Reboot starting September 27 and discover how much better you can feel with simple daily habits and a supportive community beside you every step of the way. Click here to save your spot: https://l.bttr.to/fNSbn Not sure where to start, or want to talk it through first? Book a free discovery call with Marnie and Stephanie. Subscribe to our Substack to get episode updates, wellness tips, and personal reflections from Marnie & Stephanie delivered straight to your inbox. Grab your free Midlife Travel Resilience Checklist here. If you love the show and want to support what we're building, consider a paid subscription for $30 annually. https://theartoflivingwell.substack.com/ Follow & Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofliving_well/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theartoflivingwellpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theartoflivingwel/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gym3jOPdSHwrpM1BmxyJz Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/id1482050468 Connect with Your Hosts:  Marnie Dachis Marmet: https://www.instagram.com/zenfullifecoaching Stephanie May Potter: https://www.instagram.com/stephaniemaypotter/

Have you ever noticed how two women fifteen years apart can seem worlds apart in energy, while two women the same age can be aging in completely different directions? In this episode of The Art of Living Well Podcast®, Marnie and Stephanie unpack what they call the midlife health dashboard: the metrics that actually predict how well you're aging, beyond the number on a biological age test. They share their own results from two different biological age tests, including a jarring 16-year gap between the two, and walk through what's actually within your control. Biological age testing has exploded in popularity, with people online sharing scores and spending real money to find out if they're aging faster or slower than their birth certificate says. Marnie and Stephanie have both taken these tests themselves, and they break down what the scores actually mean, what they missed, and why the number matters far less than the daily habits behind it. Whether you've taken a biological age test, are curious about one, or just want a practical way to think about aging well, this episode gives you a place to start today. Key Takeaways: •Biological age tests compare you to other people who took that same test, often a health-conscious group, not the general population •Genetic testing can also reveal your MTHFR status and ApoE genotype, which may be more useful day to day than the biological age score itself •Getting up off the floor without using your hands is one of the simplest predictors of long-term mobility •Walking pace and small daily movement snacks measurably affect how well you age, not just how far you walk •Deep sleep, not just total hours, is one of the most overlooked levers for energy and recovery in midlife •Most women are still under-eating protein, and it shows up in blood work, energy, and cravings •Chronic stress and time spent in fight-or-flight directly affects your biological age, not just how you feel day to day •You don't need a lab test to start improving your health dashboard, an honest self-score across a few key areas is a good place to begin Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: 00:00 Why Two Women 15 Years Apart Can Age So Differently 00:59 Welcome Back: Introducing the Midlife Health Dashboard 01:28 What Biological Age Actually Measures 01:55 Stephanie's Biological Age Test Results, Explained 04:34 Marnie's Two Test Results: One Said 54, One Said 38.6 07:37 The MTHFR Gene and Why Methylation Matters 08:49 Genes Aren't Destiny: A Quick Note on Epigenetics 09:30 Metric: Muscle and Functional Strength 10:21 The "Can You Get Off the Floor" Longevity Test 10:49 Book Rec: The New Fit With Aaron Leventhal (Episode 284) 11:32 Metric: Walking, Movement Snacks, and Pace 13:49 Metric: Sleep and the Midlife Wake-Up Spiral 15:26 Sleep Trackers Worth Trying: Aura Ring vs. Whoop 16:30 Chasing Deep Sleep: What Actually Moved the Needle 17:44 Metric: Stress, the Nervous System, and a PEMF Mat Experiment 19:52 Metric: Protein, and Why Most Women Are Under-Eating It 22:15 Does Everyone Need to Take a Biological Age Test? 23:02 Metric: Connection and Purpose 23:59 Metric: Getting Out of Fight-or-Flight 24:59 Build Your Own Health Dashboard: Score Yourself 25:08 How Old Do You Actually Feel? 28:16 What We'd Tell Our Kids Now 29:21 Share Your Biological Age Results With Us 29:45 Join the Fall Vitality Reboot, Starting September 27 Resources and Links: Episode 267, The New Fit with Aaron Leventhal Episode284 with Danny King (Lifetime) on VO2 max  Episode 319 on Community and Longevity for Midlife Women  Episode317 Design a life you love with the "big ass calendar" co-founder  Feeling tired, inflamed, or stuck in a cycle of cravings? Join our 7-Day Fall Vitality Reboot starting September 27 and discover how much better you can feel with simple daily habits and a supportive community beside you every step of the way. Click here to save your spot: https://l.bttr.to/fNSbn Subscribe to our Substack to get episode updates, wellness tips, and personal reflections from Marnie & Stephanie delivered straight to your inbox. Grab your free Midlife Travel Resilience Checklist here. If you love the show and want to support what we're building, consider a paid subscription for $30 annually. https://theartoflivingwell.substack.com/ Follow & Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofliving_well/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theartoflivingwellpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theartoflivingwel/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gym3jOPdSHwrpM1BmxyJz Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/id1482050468 Connect with Your Hosts: Marnie Dachis Marmet: https://www.instagram.com/zenfullifecoaching  Stephanie May Potter: https://www.instagram.com/stephaniemaypotter/

What if everything you've been told about menopause is incomplete? Many women believe menopause automatically means weight gain, brain fog, fatigue, poor sleep, and feeling like the best years are behind them. But according to physician and hormone expert Dr. Miranda Naylor, menopause isn't the beginning of decline—it can become one of the greatest opportunities to reset your health. In this episode, we explore the biggest myths surrounding perimenopause and menopause, the role genetics really play, how lifestyle impacts ovarian aging, and where hormone replacement therapy fits into a personalized longevity plan. Whether you're approaching menopause, currently navigating it, or simply want to prepare for healthy aging, this conversation will leave you feeling informed, empowered, and hopeful. In this episode you'll learn: Why menopause doesn't have to mean decline Why your mother's experience doesn't determine yours The difference between chronological age, biological age and ovarian age Lifestyle habits that can dramatically improve your menopausal transition When hormone replacement therapy may be appropriate Bioidentical hormones vs synthetic hormones The importance of estrogen, progesterone and testosterone How community, sleep and stress influence hormone health Why menopause can become a powerful opportunity for reinvention Time Stamps 00:00 Welcome + Why Menopause Needs a New Narrative 02:05 The Biggest Myths About Menopause 04:45 The Unexpected Gifts of Midlife 08:30 Why Menopause Can Be Your Health Reset 10:50 Hormone Replacement Therapy: What Women Need to Know 15:15 Estrogen, Progesterone & Testosterone Explained 18:45 A Real-Life Patient Success Story 20:30 The Lifestyle Habits That Matter Most 25:05 Genetics vs. Lifestyle: Does Your Mom's Menopause Predict Yours? 27:30 Biological Age vs. Ovarian Age 31:30 HRT Myths, Breast Cancer & Safety 35:20 Dr. Miranda's RISE Method + Final Takeaways 37:10 Free Hormone Quiz + Closing Thoughts Connect with Dr. Miranda Naylor Website Instagram Modern Women's Wellness Podcast Free Hormone Quiz Connect with Us Follow & Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofliving_well/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theartoflivingwellpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theartoflivingwel/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gym3jOPdSHwrpM1BmxyJz Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/id1482050468  Connect with your Hosts: https://www.theartoflivingwell.us/about-us

You don't have to live in the woods to get bit by a tick. It can happen in your backyard, on a walk, even pulling weeds in your own garden. In this episode of The Art of Living Well Podcast®, Marnie and Stephanie sit down with Ali Moresco, a tick-borne disease survivor, healthcare publicist, and one of the most recognized Lyme disease advocates in the country. Ali spent two years searching for a diagnosis before learning she had Lyme disease along with several co-infections, and she's turned that experience into advocacy work that has helped shape federal tick-borne disease legislation as executive board chair of Project Lyme. Ali walks through what those confusing early years of unexplained symptoms actually looked like, why standard Lyme testing misses far more cases than most people realize, and the practical prevention and removal steps worth knowing before your next walk outside. She also shares what her recovery has actually required over the better part of a decade, including where the treatment protocols and research are headed next. Whether you spend your weekends on the trail, garden in your own backyard, or just want to know what to actually do if you find a tick on you, this conversation will change how you think about prevention. Key Takeaways: Lyme disease is present in all 50 states, not just the East Coast Standard two-tier Lyme tests can be 64-78% inaccurate, especially in the early weeks after a bite Fewer than half of people infected with Lyme ever develop the classic bullseye rash Never burn, smother, or otherwise irritate an attached tick — use fine-tipped tweezers and pull straight up Save a removed tick in a bag or jar; some states and universities offer free tick testing Alpha-Gal syndrome is a tick-borne meat allergy that can also cause fatigue, brain fog, and gastro symptoms Symptoms from a tick bite can surface years later, often triggered by an unrelated stressful event or illness Recovery from chronic tick-borne illness is rarely linear and often requires a combination of treatments tailored to the individual person Episode Breakdown with Timestamps:  00:00   Introduction & Meeting Ali Moresco 01:03   Does Ali Still Enjoy Being Outside After Everything She's Been Through 02:51   Life Before Lyme Disease Was Part of Her Vocabulary 07:23   The Timeline From Tick Bite to First Symptoms 08:53   The Two-Year Path to Diagnosis 10:39   Why Standard Lyme Testing Misses So Many Cases 13:40   What Her Lowest Point Actually Looked Like 17:28   The Biggest Misconceptions About Tick Bites 19:43   Beyond Lyme: Other Tick-Borne Conditions on the Rise 20:34   Understanding Alpha-Gal Syndrome 22:31   Babesiosis and Bartonella, Explained 23:24   How to Actually Prevent Tick Bites 26:36   Prophylactic Antibiotics After a Bite 27:49   The Right Way to Remove a Tick (and What Never to Do) 29:46   What to Do With a Tick After You Remove It 30:58   Can Symptoms Show Up Years After a Bite? 32:47   Reasons for Hope: New Research on the Horizon 35:55   Inside Project Lyme's Advocacy Work 37:48   What Treatment Actually Looks Like Long-Term 44:03   The Daily Habits That Help Ali Stay Well 45:34   Where to Find Ali and Her Work 46:28   "What Does the Art of Living Well Mean to You?" Guest Links: Instagram: instagram.com/alitmoresco  Moresco PR: amorescopr.com/ali-moresco Project Lyme: projectlyme.org --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Feeling tired, inflamed, or stuck in a cycle of cravings? Join our 7-Day Fall Vitality Reboot starting September 27 and discover how much better you can feel with simple daily habits and a supportive community beside you every step of the way. Click here to save your spot: https://l.bttr.to/fNSbn --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Subscribe to our Substack to get episode updates, wellness tips, and personal reflections from Marnie & Stephanie delivered straight to your inbox. Grab your free Midlife Travel Resilience Checklist here. If you love the show and want to support what we're building, consider a paid subscription for $30 annually. https://theartoflivingwell.substack.com/ Follow & Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofliving_well/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theartoflivingwellpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theartoflivingwel/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gym3jOPdSHwrpM1BmxyJz Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/id1482050468  Connect with your Hosts: https://www.theartoflivingwell.us/about-us

When most people think about longevity, they immediately think about nutrition, exercise, sleep, supplements, or hormone health. But what if one of the biggest predictors of living a longer, healthier life has nothing to do with what's on your plate? In this episode of The Art of Living Well Podcast®, we're diving into one of the most overlooked pillars of health: community and meaningful human connection. Loneliness has quietly become a public health crisis, and research continues to show that meaningful relationships influence everything from mental health and stress resilience to inflammation, cognitive function, and longevity. Yet many of us—especially women in midlife—find ourselves unintentionally putting friendships and community on the back burner while juggling careers, parenting, caregiving, and endless responsibilities. We share personal stories from our Minneapolis Hiking Collective, discuss why in-person connection matters so much, explore the difference between loneliness and isolation, and offer practical ways to build deeper relationships—even if you're an introvert or feel like you don't have the time. In this episode, we discuss: 00:00 Why community may be one of the most overlooked pillars of longevity 02:05 The surprising statistics on loneliness and why they matter 04:10 Why we started the Minneapolis Hiking Collective 07:20 Building community through shared interests and activities 09:55 Making time for relationships in a busy season of life 11:55 Loneliness vs. isolation—and why they aren't the same thing 15:45 Finding your people and creating meaningful connections 17:40 Community after retirement and during the empty nest years 20:30 Volunteering, travel, and creating experiences that strengthen relationships 23:45 Lessons from the Blue Zones and cultures that prioritize community 25:15 Why experiences often matter more than gifts 27:00 How to build deeper friendships through simple one-on-one connection 29:00 Our challenge for you this week Mentioned in today's episode • Minneapolis Hiking Collective • Blue Zones • DIY Vitality Reboot If you've been feeling sluggish, foggy, or just not like yourself lately, this is where we'd start. The Vitality Reboot is a 7-day functional medicine liver detox you can do anytime, at your own pace, with full support from us along the way. Women consistently tell us it's the thing that finally helps them feel like themselves again. Start here Subscribe to our Substack to get episode updates, wellness tips, and personal reflections from Marnie & Stephanie delivered straight to your inbox. If you love the show and want to support what we're building, consider a paid subscription for $30 annually. Follow & Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofliving_well/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theartoflivingwellpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theartoflivingwel/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gym3jOPdSHwrpM1BmxyJz Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/id1482050468 Connect with your Hosts:  https://www.theartoflivingwell.us/about-us

What if your strongest, most adventurous years are still ahead of you — not behind you? In this episode of The Art of Living Well Podcast®, Marnie and Stephanie sit down with Jen Segger, world-class endurance athlete, high-performance coach, and co-founder of the Rebuild Retreat, to explore what it really looks like to keep dreaming bigger in midlife. From her roots in adventure racing to coaching women through the physiology of perimenopause and beyond, Jen brings a grounded, practical perspective on what separates the women who achieve meaningful goals from those who stay stuck. Jen's path started with a pivot away from competitive field hockey and a move to Whistler in her early twenties, where she began building a life around adventure racing — a sport that takes teams through remote terrain for up to ten days nonstop. Over two decades, she has raced across the world, guided expeditions in Colombia, co-created immersive retreats on Vancouver Island, and built a coaching practice around getting people to the finish line of whatever matters most to them. Whether you're training for your first endurance event, trying to figure out how to work with your hormones instead of against them, or simply wondering what's still possible in this chapter of life, this conversation will help you move forward. Key Takeaways: Starting small is not settling — it's the most sustainable path to a big goal The most consistent athletes aren't the most talented; they're the ones who protect their training time like an appointment with themselves Comparison is one of the biggest obstacles women face in perimenopause and goal-setting alike Your goal needs to be genuinely yours — not what your peers are doing or what looks good on paper Working with a coach isn't just about a training plan; it's about accountability, external perspective, and staying coachable Longevity matters more than peak performance — Jen herself is currently prioritizing addressing imbalances over racing Integrating your goals with your family life makes them more sustainable, not smaller Midlife is not a signal to scale back; it's an invitation to get clearer about what you actually want Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction & How Marnie and Stephanie Met Jen 01:32 Jen's Path From Field Hockey to Adventure Racing 03:51 What Adventure Racing Teaches You About Life 09:32 Staying Motivated After 25 Years as an Athlete 11:12 What to Say to Women Who Think Midlife Means Slowing Down 14:12 How to Set a Goal That's Actually Yours 16:39 Planning Your Year With Intention 23:24 Working With Your Hormones in Perimenopause 26:28 What Separates Women Who Achieve Goals From Those Who Get Stuck 30:57 Why Every Woman Needs a Coach 35:40 The Rebuild Retreat on Vancouver Island 39:53 The Colombia Trekking Expedition With Terra Venture 51:42 One Thing You Can Do This Week 53:01 What's Lighting Jen Up Right Now 56:30 "What Does the Art of Living Well Mean to You?" Guest Links: Website: jensegger.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jensegger/ Terra Venture expeditions (Colombia): https://www.terra-venture.com/expeditions If you've been feeling sluggish, foggy, or just not like yourself lately, this is where we'd start. The Vitality Reboot is a 7-day functional medicine liver detox you can do anytime, at your own pace, with full support from us along the way. Women consistently tell us it's the thing that finally helps them feel like themselves again. Start here Subscribe to our Substack to get episode updates, wellness tips, and personal reflections from Marnie & Stephanie delivered straight to your inbox. If you love the show and want to support what we're building, consider a paid subscription for $30 annually. Follow & Connect: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofliving_well/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@theartoflivingwellpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@theartoflivingwel/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4gym3jOPdSHwrpM1BmxyJz Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/id1482050468 Connect with your Hosts:  https://www.theartoflivingwell.us/about-us

Are you living your life by design...or by default? If you've ever found yourself saying, "I don't have enough time," feeling like the weeks fly by, or wondering where the year went, this episode is for you. This week, we're joined by Taylor Prokes, co-founder of the Big A## Calendar Company, endurance athlete, entrepreneur, and advocate for intentional living. Taylor shares why your calendar is much more than a scheduling tool—it's one of the most powerful ways to create a life filled with purpose, joy, adventure, and meaningful experiences. Together, we explore how planning ahead can help you stop simply reacting to life and start intentionally creating it. Whether you're navigating midlife, raising teenagers, becoming an empty nester, or simply craving more fulfillment, Taylor offers practical strategies to help you prioritize what matters most. We also discuss why women in midlife may actually have more opportunities than ever before to pursue meaningful goals, embrace adventure, and inject more fun into everyday life. In this episode, we discuss: Why your calendar shapes your life more than you realize How to stop saying "I don't have time" The power of planning adventures and experiences in advance Why midlife is the perfect time to prioritize yourself The concept of a Misogi—a year-defining challenge Why doing hard things builds confidence and resilience How to balance family, work, relationships, and personal goals The importance of creating seasons instead of chasing "perfect balance" How mini adventures can add more joy to everyday life Practical ways to become more intentional with your time Episode Breakdown with Timestamps In This Episode 01:15 How Taylor discovered intentional living 09:30 Stop reacting to life—start designing it 15:30 Why planning ahead creates more freedom 19:30 Rethinking work-life balance 27:00 What is a Misogi? 34:45 How the Big Ass Calendar works 42:00 Why women in midlife should prioritize fun 50:30 When life changes your plans Whether your next adventure is running your first race, learning a new skill, taking a bucket-list trip, or simply scheduling more fun with friends and family, this conversation will inspire you to stop waiting and start living. Connect with Taylor Prokes Instagram: @TaylorProkes Website: TheBigAssCalendar.com Use this link and code LIVINGWELL for a discount off your calendar purchase.   Summer is the perfect time to press reset. Our 7-day Vitality Reboot gives you a clear, guided path to reducing inflammation and reclaiming your energy, with Marnie and Stephanie in your corner the whole way. You do the work, we provide the roadmap and the support. Join us at https://p.bttr.to/39XDmpQ Follow and Connect Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofliving_well Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theartoflivingwellpodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/?viewAsMember=true Connect with Your Hosts Marnie Dachis Marmet: https://www.instagram.com/zenfullifecoaching Stephanie May Potter: https://www.instagram.com/stephaniemaypotter/ If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love for you to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who needs a reminder that it's never too late to design a life they truly love.

When was the last time you heard someone say creatine was for women? Probably not often enough. In this episode of The Art of Living Well Podcast®, Marnie and Stephanie break down one of the most researched supplements available and make the case for why midlife women should be paying attention. Creatine has long been associated with bodybuilders and gym culture, but the science tells a far more interesting story, especially for women navigating perimenopause, menopause, and the hormonal shifts that come with them. This conversation covers the basics of how creatine works, why women naturally have lower stores than men, and what the emerging research says about its benefits for muscle, recovery, energy, and brain health. Marnie and Stephanie also share how they each take it daily, what brands they trust, and how to work through the bloating concern that keeps many women from sticking with it. Supplements are never the whole picture. But this one may be worth a closer look. Key Takeaways What creatine is and how it supports cellular energy production Why women have lower creatine stores than men How declining estrogen affects muscle mass and recovery The strength and lean muscle benefits of creatine in perimenopause and postmenopause Why brain fog and cognitive decline make creatine worth considering The truth about bloating and water retention The form, dose, and timing that Marnie and Stephanie each use What to look for on a label and brands they recommend Who should consult a doctor before starting Episode Breakdown with Timestamps 00:00 Why creatine matters for women 01:30 What creatine is and how ATP works 03:30 Why women have lower creatine stores 05:00 Strength, muscle mass, and recovery 07:00 Addressing the bloating concern 08:30 Perimenopause and postmenopause research 10:00 Brain health and cognitive function 11:30 Benefits across all life stages 12:00 Myths and contraindications 13:30 Creatine monohydrate: dosing and timing 15:00 Brands and what to look for 18:00 Final takeaways Resources and Links Kion Creatine: Code: ARTOFLIVINGWELL  Brick House Nutrition Creatone Code: livingwell Equi.Life Cell Force Website: https://www.theartoflivingwell.us  Sponsors This episode is brought to you by Good Health Saunas, offering commercial grade infrared saunas designed to support detoxification, muscle recovery, relaxation, and better sleep. Visit https://goodhealthsaunas.com or stop by their Mall of America, Appleton, or Waukesha locations. Be sure to mention The Art of Living Well Podcast® for exclusive pricing. Summer is the perfect time to press reset. Our 7-day Vitality Reboot gives you a clear, guided path to reducing inflammation and reclaiming your energy, with Marnie and Stephanie in your corner the whole way. You do the work, we provide the roadmap and the support. Join us at https://p.bttr.to/39XDmpQ Join Us This Summer — Mahjong Night! If you are local to the Twin Cities, come spend a summer evening with us. We are hosting a fun night of mahjong, connection, and community on Wednesday, July 22nd from 6:30 to 8:30 PM. Expect good company, giveaways, and plenty of laughs around the table. Tickets are $20 to play. Location will be in Edina or Minnetonka depending on the weather, and the address will be shared upon registration. Please note this event is for experienced players only and space is limited. Grab your spot before it sells out at https://l.bttr.to/t9qKg Follow and Connect Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofliving_well Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theartoflivingwellpodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/?viewAsMember=true Connect with Your Hosts Marnie Dachis Marmet: https://www.instagram.com/zenfullifecoaching Stephanie May Potter: https://www.instagram.com/stephaniemaypotter/

Are you constantly being told your labs are "normal" but still don't feel like yourself? In this episode of The Art of Living Well Podcast®, we sit down with award-winning journalist and author Meghan Rabbitt to discuss the critical health information women were never taught—and why so many women are falling through the cracks of today's healthcare system. We explore hormones, self-advocacy, sexual health, menopause, weight stigma, symptom tracking, and how women can become more informed and empowered when it comes to their health. If you've ever felt dismissed by a healthcare provider, struggled with symptoms that don't seem to have answers, or wondered whether what you're experiencing is truly "normal," this conversation is for you. Topics Covered Women's health myths Hormones and perimenopause How to advocate for yourself at the doctor's office Using AI and ChatGPT to prepare for appointments Sexual health and libido in midlife Weight stigma in healthcare The healthcare system's biggest blind spots for women Why symptom tracking matters The future of women's health Timestamps: 01:00 Why women aren't taught enough about their bodies 07:45 The biggest gaps in women's healthcare 12:00 Becoming your own health advocate 22:30 Hormones, perimenopause, and symptom tracking 26:20 Nutrition, food noise, and eating for nourishment 33:30 Sexual health, libido, and menopause 39:30 Understanding desire in midlife 43:40 The future of women's health 47:00 What it means to truly live well About Meghan Rabbitt Meghan Rabbitt is an award-winning journalist, editor, and author of The New Rules of Women's Health: Your Guide to Thriving at Every Age. After more than 20 years covering women's health, she has interviewed hundreds of clinicians, researchers, and experts to help women better understand and advocate for their health. Resources Learn more: newrulesofwomenshealth.com Follow Meghan: @meghanrabbitt Sponsor This episode is brought to you by Good Health Saunas, offering commercial grade infrared saunas designed to support detoxification, muscle recovery, relaxation, and better sleep. Visit https://goodhealthsaunas.com or stop by their Mall of America, Appleton, or Waukesha locations. Be sure to mention The Art of Living Well Podcast® for exclusive pricing. Ready for a Reset, On Your Own Time? If you've been feeling sluggish, bloated, inflamed, foggy, or just not like yourself, our Vitality Reboot Anytime is a simple way to give your body the reset it's been craving. This is our do-it-yourself version of The Art of Living Well Podcast® community detox, designed so you can move through the program whenever it works best for you. You'll receive everything you need to support your body with nourishing foods, targeted detox support, and simple daily practices that help you feel lighter, clearer, and more energized. A fun summer night of mahjong, connection & community. Join The Art of Living Well Podcast® for a fun summer evening of mahjong, connection, community, and giveaways. Come enjoy the love of the game, meet other mahjong lovers, and spend a lighthearted night out playing, laughing, and connecting. Wednesday, July 22nd 6:30–8:30 PM $20 to play Location: Edina or Minnetonka, depending on weather Sign up here: https://l.bttr.to/t9qKg  Subscribe to our Substack for wellness tips, episode updates, and your free Midlife Travel Resilience Checklist: theartoflivingwell.substack.com Follow us: Instagram: @theartofliving_well YouTube: @theartoflivingwellpodcast LinkedIn: The Art of Living Well Podcast TikTok: @theartoflivingwel Spotify and Apple Podcasts Connect with your hosts: theartoflivingwell.us/about-us

Do you feel exhausted but can't seem to wind down? That wired-but-tired feeling so many women experience in midlife has a name, and a cause most doctors never address. In this episode of The Art of Living Well Podcast®, Marnie and Stephanie are joined by Dr. Scott Sherr, a board-certified internal medicine physician and expert in health optimization, to explore the connection between chronic stress, hormone changes, and mitochondrial dysfunction. Dr. Scott introduces the concept of the "sympathetic spiral of doom" — the cycle of stress, poor sleep, and cellular energy breakdown that keeps so many women stuck, and shares practical, science-backed ways to break it. The conversation covers methylene blue (what it is, how it works, and who should use it), GABA and nervous system support, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Dr. Scott also explains why only 6% of US adults have optimally functioning mitochondria, and what the other 94% can do about it. Key Takeaways: Chronic stress and hormone fluctuations directly impair mitochondrial function Estrogen is a critical mitochondrial optimizer, losing it in perimenopause has real cellular consequences Only 6% of US adults are metabolically healthy; symptoms of the rest range from brain fog to poor sleep to slow recovery Methylene blue supports mitochondrial energy production and works as a bridge while you optimize your health more broadly If a GABA supplement works for you, that's a warning sign worth paying attention to Down-regulating the nervous system too fast, without mitochondrial support, can cause a crash Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is most effective once you have a foundational health plan in place Sleep is one of the most powerful levers for mitochondrial health 00:00 – Introduction and Dr. Scott's background 04:13 – Why midlife women's bodies stop responding the way they used to 07:32 – Progesterone, GABA, and sleep disruption 09:04 – What mitochondria actually do and why they matter 13:16 – The 6% metabolic health statistic 17:00 – The sympathetic spiral of doom, explained 21:01 – Cortisol: misunderstood and mismanaged 29:32 – What methylene blue is and how to use it 33:55 – Who should not take methylene blue 38:33 – Performance, travel, and targeted use 47:17 – GABA support and down-regulating the nervous system 55:18 – Hyperbaric oxygen therapy: benefits, timing, and protocols 01:00:52 – One action to take today 01:03:09 – Where to find Dr. Scott and his products Guest Links: Dr. Scott Sherr: drscottsherr.com Troscriptions: troscriptions.com Use code LIVINGWELL for 10% off Products mentioned: Just Blue, Blue Cannatine, Tro Calm, Tro Zzz This episode is brought to you by Good Health Saunas. Visit goodhealthsaunas.com and mention The Art of Living Well Podcast® for exclusive pricing. Ready for a Reset, On Your Own Time? If you've been feeling sluggish, bloated, inflamed, foggy, or just not like yourself, our Vitality Reboot Anytime is a simple way to give your body the reset it's been craving. This is our do-it-yourself version of The Art of Living Well Podcast® community detox, designed so you can move through the program whenever it works best for you. You'll receive everything you need to support your body with nourishing foods, targeted detox support, and simple daily practices that help you feel lighter, clearer, and more energized. Subscribe to our Substack for wellness tips, episode updates, and your free Midlife Travel Resilience Checklist: theartoflivingwell.substack.com Follow us: Instagram: @theartofliving_well YouTube: @theartoflivingwellpodcast LinkedIn: The Art of Living Well Podcast TikTok: @theartoflivingwel Spotify and Apple Podcasts Connect with your hosts: theartoflivingwell.us/about-us

Cancer rates are rising, especially among younger adults and many people are asking deeper questions about prevention, root causes, and what it truly means to heal. In this powerful conversation, we welcome back Dr. Tony Jimenez, founder of Hope for Cancer Treatment Centers, to explore the evolving landscape of integrative cancer care, emotional healing, metabolic health, and proactive prevention strategies. We dive into the connection between chronic stress, unresolved emotional trauma, inflammation, immune dysfunction, metabolic health, and cancer risk, plus practical steps anyone can begin taking today to support longevity and resilience. Dr. Tony also shares fascinating insights into emerging diagnostics, telomere testing, the longevity-associated Klotho gene, hydrogen therapy, detoxification, oxygenation, and why emotional healing may be one of the most overlooked components of wellness. Whether you're navigating a cancer diagnosis, supporting a loved one, or simply wanting to optimize your health proactively, this episode offers hope, empowerment, and actionable insights. In This Episode, we cover: Why cancer rates are increasing in younger populations The connection between chronic stress, emotional trauma, and disease How metabolic dysfunction and insulin resistance impact cancer risk The role of mitochondrial health and inflammation The importance of sleep, hydration, movement, and personalized nutrition Detoxification, immune support, and oxygenation therapies Hydrogen water and hydrogen inhalation therapy explained The emotional component of healing and releasing stored trauma Integrative oncology vs. conventional cancer treatment How to advocate for yourself during a cancer diagnosis Why hope, mindset, and emotional resilience matter in healing Episode Breakdown with Timestamps 00:00 Introduction & the current state of cancer care 06:15 Stress, trauma & lifestyle factors impacting health 19:00 Longevity testing & emerging integrative therapies 33:15 Emotional healing, mindset & resilience 48:00 Integrative oncology & advocating for yourself 1:02:00 Preventing recurrence & creating daily healing habits 1:10:00 Final thoughts on hope & healing Resources & Links Learn more about Hope for Cancer Treatment Centers: hope4cancer Follow Dr. Tony Jimenez and learn about upcoming webinars and wellness programs: https://hope4cancer.com/webinar-replay-all-access/ (Password:  HOPE) Testing we discuss: For Longevity (Klotho Test): https://www.jinfiniti.com/product/agingsos-klotho-test/ For Telomeres: https://repeatdx.com/ Link to the new medical wellness center in Cancun: Sevenby7KP.com   Previous episode: The 7 Key Principles of Cancer Therapy with Dr. Tony Jimenez Sponsor This episode is brought to you by Good Health Saunas, offering commercial grade infrared saunas designed to support detoxification, muscle recovery, relaxation, and better sleep. Visit https://goodhealthsaunas.com or stop by their Mall of America, Appleton, or Waukesha locations. Be sure to mention The Art of Living Well Podcast® for exclusive pricing. Follow and Connect on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofliving_well Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theartoflivingwellpodcast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/?viewAsMember=true Connect with Your Hosts Marnie Dachis Marmet: https://www.instagram.com/zenfullifecoaching Stephanie May Potter: https://www.instagram.com/stephaniemaypotter/

Episode Summary When was the last time you did something that truly pushed you outside your comfort zone? In this episode of The Art of Living Well Podcast®, we share our experience attending a hiking and endurance retreat on Vancouver Island and the powerful lessons we brought home from it. This was not your typical retreat. It was not about relaxation or escape. It was about challenge, growth, community, and reconnecting with yourself in a deeper way. We open up about the fears, self-doubt, and mindset shifts that showed up, along with the unexpected moments of joy, connection, and clarity that came from being fully present in nature. This conversation is about more than one experience. It is about why stepping outside your routine, disconnecting from distractions, and surrounding yourself with new people can be transformative, especially for women in midlife. If you have been feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or craving something different, this episode will inspire you to take that next step. Key Takeaways Why getting outside your comfort zone leads to growth The mental and emotional benefits of being in nature How disconnecting from your phone improves connection and presence The power of community and meaningful conversations Why midlife is the perfect time to try something new How self-doubt shows up and how to move through it The impact of challenging your body in new ways Why you do not need a full retreat to create transformation Episode Breakdown with Timestamps 00:00 A question that sparks growth 02:30 What this retreat was really about 06:00 The power of nature and disconnecting 10:00 Letting go of distractions and being present 13:30 Facing self-doubt and physical challenge 18:00 Pushing past comfort zones and mindset shifts 22:00 The importance of community and connection 26:00 Why meaningful conversations matter 30:00 Lessons from being around different ages and backgrounds 34:00 Why you deserve experiences like this 38:00 How to bring these lessons into your everyday life Resources and Links Join our hiking community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1368978181038556  Website: https://www.theartoflivingwell.us/ Email: [email protected] Sponsor This episode is brought to you by Good Health Saunas, offering commercial grade infrared saunas designed to support detoxification, muscle recovery, relaxation, and better sleep. Visit https://goodhealthsaunas.com or stop by their Mall of America, Appleton, or Waukesha locations. Be sure to mention The Art of Living Well Podcast® for exclusive pricing. Follow and Connect Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theartofliving_well Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theartoflivingwellpodcast/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-art-of-living-well-podcast/?viewAsMember=true  Connect with Your Hosts Marnie Dachis Marmet: https://www.instagram.com/zenfullifecoaching Stephanie May Potter: https://www.instagram.com/stephaniemaypotter/