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In this week's edition of Tranquility du Jour, I'm sharing a list of 52 things I've Learned in 52 Years—from life's tender truths to tiny practices that keep me grounded. You can grow up in the Great Plains of Oklahoma and still dream in (broken) French. The courage to veer off the expected path—like taking a gap year to ski and snowboard in Colorado post-college—can shape your soul. Midlife is a permission slip to nourish what you once neglected. Paralegal school taught me the power of precision—and that law firms weren't my forever. A yoga mat in a living room can spark a movement. Saying yes to self-employment in 2000 was the most terrifying and liberating decision of my life. A master's degree in women's studies gave language to what I'd felt all along: we rise stronger together and don't have to accept status quo. Growing two yoga studios to 50 soulful teachers and hundreds of weekly students began with one deep breath and a big vision from a DC fourth floor walk-up. Trust your obsessions. They'll guide you across oceans—and sometimes, back to yourself. (Looking at you, Paris and Borneo!) Stepping onto a stage—whether to teach, speak, or dance—is vulnerability turned into art. Especially when you're standing there in a leotard! Writing, reading, and dancing is how I make sense of the world. Blogging since 2004? Still magic. Starting a podcast in 2005? It felt like speaking into the void. Then it felt like community. Now it's pausing for reinvention. Social work graduate school in my mid-30s was a second act I didn't know I needed. Paris isn't just a place—it's a way of being. Selling something you built from your heart is a heartbreak and a rebirth. Private psychotherapy practice reminds me daily of the resilience in all of us. Ballet at midlife is a love letter to my younger self. The Coterie is proof that midlife can be a renaissance. Medals are fun, but the real prize is dancing full out. Relationships evolve, stretch, and morph—and still leave room for gratitude. Healing is nonlinear and never too late to begin. Pugs are life's greatest snugglers, teachers, and tiny therapists. Caring for special needs pugs taught me about unconditional love (and carpet cleaners). Orangutans will hold your gaze and your heart—Borneo changed me. Pigs & Pugs Project reminds me that small acts of kindness ripple wide. A 600-square-foot space can feel like a mini Versailles with a touch of tulle, gold-framed mirrors, sparkly chandeliers, damask wallpaper, a curated perfume tray, lace curtains, and imagination. Minimalism isn't about less. It's about making space for what matters. Podcasts end. Chapters close. And new ones wait for fresh starts. It's okay to not know what's next. Excitement and fear often travel together. Age 52 can feel more awake, aligned, and intentional than 22 ever did. Ballet buns, gold hoops, red lipstick, and the LBD are sacred rituals. Life is better with playlists, peonies, and Parisian flair. Pigs are gentle souls who know their names and helped inspire my path toward more compassionate living. Losing yourself isn't failure—it's often where the real you begins to emerge. Owning a business is not for the faint of heart, but it shapes you in the best ways. Every season of life offers a chance to reinvent. Being seen and supported in community offers a kind of healing that self-help alone can't always reach. We're allowed to rewrite our stories—again and again. Inspiration is everywhere: in rooftops, café chairs, thrift stores, and secondhand bookstores. Grief and growth often walk hand in hand. Boundaries are the kindest gifts we give ourselves and others. Choosing beauty in a chaotic world is activism. So is kindness, softness, and refusing to rush. A matcha latte can be a spiritual practice. Tiny steps, repeated often, create big change. Nostalgia is a powerful teacher—just don't live there. Therapy works. Period. You can be both heartbroken and hopeful. The body is resilient. So is the spirit. The best accessories are confidence and compassion. Rest is not optional. It's revolutionary. The next chapter is unwritten and I'm holding the pen with curiosity and a hint of Parisian perfume and possibility. Mentioned in the Show A variety of offerings to nourish your soul   Doors opening soon! Join the waitlist by 7/6 for early access to the second half of the year's content + receive an exclusive, waitlist-only Parisian-inspired care package when you become a member   You're invited to a nourishing hour of midyear inspiration on Sunday, July 6 at 7 pm ET to help you reconnect with what matters most in this season of life. Save your spot here.   I'm spending five weeks in Paris this summer—studying French, dancing in a ballet intensive, and living the dream midlife-style. Join the waitlist for behind-the-scenes peeks, Parisian inspiration, and special treats along the way!

In this week's edition of Tranquility du Jour, I chat with guest Dr. Ellen Albertson on: The Seven Steps to Rock Your Midlife Dr. Ellen shares a transformative framework from her book Rock Your Midlife, including: know yourself, love yourself, energize yourself, reprogram your brain, empower yourself, rehab your relationships, and enlighten yourself. Each step is designed to guide women toward deeper self-understanding, vibrant health, and personal empowerment. Redefining Midlife Through Resilience and Joy From blindness to breast cancer, divorce to career pivots, Dr. Ellen opens up about how these challenges catalyzed her growth. She reframes adversity as an invitation to reinvent yourself and emphasizes that midlife can be the richest, most joyful chapter yet. Breaking Up with the Hustle Culture A former workaholic, Dr. Ellen describes how she stepped away from burnout by embracing her Human Design, discovering hand pan music, and becoming a yoga teacher. She encourages women to create space for new passions and reject the belief that worth is tied to productivity. Tranquility Through Ritual and Self-Compassion From walking barefoot on her Vermont property to tapping, journaling, strength training, and HeartMath breathing, Dr. Ellen's daily rituals are rooted in self-love and embodiment. Her biggest advice? Make self-compassion your superpower—and let joy lead the way. Hit subscribe on your favorite podcast app such as Spotify, Apple Podcast, Amazon. Visit kimberlywilson.com/podcast for more and Substack for shownotes. Grab your journal, a cuppa tea, and settle in for this week's inspiration.     Our Guest: Dr. Ellen Albertson Today's guest is Dr. Ellen Albertson, The Midlife Whisperer®—a psychologist, nutritionist, and founder of Dragonflying™, a method that helps women 40+ rise, reinvent, and reclaim their power. She's a bestselling author, menopause expert, and wellness coach who blends science with soul to help women feel confident, energized, and lit up from the inside out. Find Our Guest Website Free gift: 10 Tips to Rock Your Midlife Podcast Instagram Facebook Group Facebook Fan X LinkedIn YouTube TikTok Pinterest Book Mentioned in the Show & Announcements A variety of offerings to nourish your soul Doors opening soon! Join the waitlist by 7/6 for early access to the second half of the year's content + receive an exclusive, waitlist-only Parisian-inspired care package when you become a member You're invited to a nourishing hour of midyear inspiration on Sunday, July 6 at 7 pm ET to help you reconnect with what matters most in this season of life. Save your spot here. I'm spending five weeks in Paris this summer—studying French, dancing in a ballet intensive, and living the dream midlife-style. Join the waitlist for behind-the-scenes peeks, Parisian inspiration, and special treats along the way!

In this week's edition of Tranquility du Jour, I chat with Anne Flosnik on: Living Fearlessly and Fully in Midlife Anne shares how she's shed fear and self-doubt in this season of life. With a strong sense of agency, she sees midlife not as a narrowing but as an expansive time filled with opportunity, curiosity, and creative possibility. Honouring the Body with Gentle Consistency After a surprise osteoporosis diagnosis, Anne began building supportive routines like daily rebounding (mini trampoline), strength training, and mindful nutrition. Her message: small, informed choices can strengthen body and spirit over time. Creative Spark Through Community and Writing A creative writing class at her local library reignited Anne's love for storytelling and inspired her to begin writing her memoir. She highlights how simple, local resources can awaken creative energy and support our evolving sense of purpose. Tranquility Through Trust and Self-Compassion Anne emphasizes tuning out the noise, trusting your inner compass, and celebrating what's going well. She encourages women to honor their intuition, stop chasing perfection, and embrace each day as an unfolding gift. Hit subscribe on your favorite podcast app such as Spotify, Apple Podcast, Amazon. Visit kimberlywilson.com/podcast for more and Substack for shownotes. Grab your journal, a cuppa tea, and settle in for this week's inspiration. Our Guest: Anne Flosnik Anne Flosnik is a multi-award-winning audiobook narrator of over 700 titles and has 5 Audie Nominations among her many awards and distinctions. Anne has been a Registered Nurse, a Midwife, and a Flight Attendant – all experiences that add depth to her work. She produces audiobooks in her country backyard home studio in Virginia. She lives with her husband and their two, adorable cats. Find Our Guest Instagram Website LinkedIn BlueSky Social X Clubhouse Previous Episode: #615: Finding Your Voice Mentioned in the Show & Announcements Save your spot on the Coterie waitlist and get immediate access to a 30-days of Tranquility challenge   Digital Courses to Nourish the Midlife Soul   Craving more beauty, balance, and intention in midlife? Join the Substack Private Collection for just $1.90/week ($99/year) and receive: 🧘‍♀️ Five exclusive tranquility tools each month—think journal prompts, meditations, private podcast episodes, veg recipes, and playlists 🗓️ My Month in Review packed with personal reflections and favorite resources 🎁 Occasional bonus treats crafted just for paid subscribers including a Substack Lives and more!

In this week's edition of Tranquility du Jour, I chat with Julia Coney on: Intentional Living and Midlife Priorities Julia shares how midlife has invited her to slow down, be kinder to herself, and intentionally curate how she spends her time. From planning monthly bed days to saying no without guilt, she's embracing presence over pressure and finding joy in the everyday. The Power of Routine and Reflection With three key notebooks—a planner, a journal, and a commonplace book—Julia tracks her thoughts, growth, and ideas. She begins each day with reading (sometimes just 10 minutes!) and carves out space to be fully offline and undistracted by devices. Midlife Career Reinvention and Curiosity Julia reflects on her shift from legal assistant to beauty blogger to wine educator and now co-founder of a luxury food, wine, and wellness travel company. She emphasizes the importance of staying curious, evolving with your passions, and letting the next chapter unfold naturally. Books, Bed Days, and Pink Lipstick Joy From smutty morning reads to glamorous bed day rituals, Julia celebrates life's sensual and soulful pleasures. She encourages midlife women to romanticize their lives, play with beauty, and create space for creativity—even if it's just reading in bold lipstick with a cup of tea. Hit subscribe on your favorite podcast app such as Spotify, Apple Podcast, Amazon. Visit kimberlywilson.com/podcast for more and Substack for shownotes. Grab your journal, a cuppa tea, and settle in for this week's inspiration. Our Guest: Julia Coney Julia Coney is a Washington, D.C. and Houston, Texas-based wine writer, wine educator, speaker, and consultant. Julia is the Wine Expert for American Airlines in partnership with the James Beard Foundation and the recipient of Wine Enthusiast's 2020 Social Visionary Award Winner for her work in writing and speaking on diversity, equity, and inclusion in the wine industry. Julia is the Founder of Black Wine Professionals. Julia is a lifelong Francophile and an inveterate traveler. You can find her on all social media at @juliaconey, her newsletter Métier, and with a wine glass in hand. Find Our Guest Instagram Substack Website Previous Episodes: #143: planner pad pursuits, #338: All About the Pretty Mentioned in the Show & Announcements Lipstick: Fenty Icon the Fill Semi-Matte Refillable Lipstick in Miss Candy Venom Books: Jasmine Guillory Ava Rani Beach Reads and Bubbly Save your spot on the Coterie waitlist and get immediate access to a 30-days of Tranquility challenge Digital Courses to Nourish the Midlife Soul Craving more beauty, balance, and intention in midlife? Join the Substack Private Collection for just $1.90/week ($99/year) and receive: 🧘‍♀️ Five exclusive tranquility tools each month—think journal prompts, meditations, private podcast episodes, veg recipes, and playlists 🗓️ My Month in Review packed with personal reflections and favorite resources 🎁 Occasional bonus treats crafted just for paid subscribers including a Mini Midyear Reset on June 13! Your midlife journey deserves nourishment and support—come cozy up inside the private circle!

In this week's edition of Tranquility du Jour, I chat with Melinda Parkhurst on: Gracefully Embracing the Midlife Shift Melinda reflects on stepping into the role of a wisdom carrier and how midlife offers perspective, legacy, and a chance to pass the torch. She encourages us to lean into change, not resist it—and to keep showing up fully. Creativity as Lifelong Nourishment A dancer, gardener, artist, and maker, Melinda shares how creative expression has evolved with her seasons of life. She listens to what calls her now, letting go of old projects and embracing new ones with curiosity and grace. Mindfulness in the Garden and Beyond Whether she's planting vegetables or petting her cat, Melinda finds tranquility in nature and simple sensory pleasures. Her outdoor time offers space to center, reflect, and reconnect with what matters most. Letting Go and Looking Ahead From going back to grad school in midlife to planning her next creative chapter, Melinda models how reinvention is always available. She reminds us that unfinished books and unchosen paths are okay—and that authenticity is our most powerful legacy. Hit subscribe on your favorite podcast app such as Spotify, Apple Podcast, Amazon. Visit kimberlywilson.com/podcast for more and Substack for shownotes. Grab your journal, a cuppa tea, and settle in for this week's inspiration.   Our Guest: Melinda Parkhurst Melinda Parkhurst is a multifaceted professional whose expertise spans business operations, coaching, creative arts, and personal development. With a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems and extensive experience in business operations, she began the transition to a more holistic and creative career path by earning a Master of Arts in Transpersonal Psychology with a focus on creativity. She further honed her skills by obtaining the International Coaching Federation (ICF) ACC certification. As a certified Professional Development Coach, Melinda specializes in empowering women through their personal and professional journeys. Her coaching approach integrates her academic training, professional experience, and creative insights to support her clients in discovering their authentic selves and curating meaningful lives. She is also committed to pro bono coaching for emerging leaders particularly within BIPOC and non-profit communities. Additionally, she mentors interns as part of her HR Operations role. Melinda is the author of Stories of Myself: Your Journey of Self-Discovery Through Storytelling, Mindfulness, Movement, and Creativity Practices, a guidebook designed to inspire self-exploration and transformation through creative practices. Beyond her professional endeavors, she is an accomplished photographer, mixed media artist, and avid gardener—a true modern renaissance woman. Find Our Guest Instagram Website Coaching Previous Episodes: #302: gardening, #508: Sustainable Living Mentioned in the Show & Announcements Digital Courses to Nourish the Midlife Soul   Craving more beauty, balance, and intention in midlife? Join the Substack Private Collection for just $1.90/week ($99/year) and receive: 🧘‍♀️ Five exclusive tranquility tools each month—think journal prompts, meditations, private podcast episodes, veg recipes, and playlists 🗓️ My Month in Review packed with personal reflections and favorite resources 🎁 Occasional bonus treats crafted just for paid subscribers Your midlife journey deserves nourishment and support—come cozy up inside the private circle! 💗 Save your spot on the Coterie waitlist and get immediate access to a 30-days of Tranquility challenge

In this week's edition of Tranquility du Jour, I chat with Reema Datta on: The True Meaning of Yoga Reema shares how yoga's roots in India focus more on the mind and consciousness than the body. She unpacks the essence of yoga as a practice of connecting to stillness, acceptance, and infinite potential—not just achieving physical poses. Embracing Change with Grace Whether transitioning into motherhood or midlife, Reema reflects on how yoga taught her to let go of labels and stories that no longer serve. Her practice helps her approach aging as an exciting opportunity for growth, wisdom, and rediscovery. Living the Yogi's Way From mantra and movement to mindful cooking and slowing down, Reema integrates the principles of yoga into daily life. Her lifestyle emphasizes simplicity, presence, and a deep reverence for how we nourish body, mind, and soul. Giving as a Path to Tranquility Reema finds grounding by remembering that her practice is not just for her—it's for the benefit of all. This expansive view creates a deeper sense of purpose and peace, transforming each action into an offering. Hit subscribe on your favorite podcast app such as Spotify, Apple Podcast, Amazon. Visit kimberlywilson.com/podcast for more and Substack for shownotes. Grab your journal, a cuppa tea, and settle in for this week's inspiration.   Our Guest: Reema Datta Reema Datta is the author of The Yogi's Way: Transform Your Mind, Health, and Reality. Datta first learned yoga and Ayurveda from her mother and grandmothers as well as her grandfather, who wrote several books on Vedic philosophy. After receiving her master's from the London School of Economics, Datta worked for the United Nations before leaving to study ancient yogic wisdom and practice. Since 2002, she has taught yoga and Ayurveda workshops, retreats, and trainings in twenty countries across five continents. Her students include Sting, Paul Simon, Edie Brickell, Zainab Salbi, Sujatha Baliga, and thousands of other practitioners globally. Visit her online at http://www.ReemaYoga.com. Find Our Guest Instagram Facebook X LinkedIn Mentioned in the Show & Announcements Digital Courses to Nourish the Midlife Soul Craving more beauty, balance, and intention in midlife? Join the Substack Private Collection for just $1.90/week ($99/year) and receive: 🧘‍♀️ Five exclusive tranquility tools each month—think journal prompts, meditations, private podcast episodes, veg recipes, and playlists 🗓️ My Month in Review packed with personal reflections and favorite resources 🎁 Occasional bonus treats crafted just for paid subscribers Your midlife journey deserves nourishment and support—come cozy up inside the private circle! 💗 Save your spot on the Coterie waitlist and get immediate access to a 30-days of Tranquility challenge

In this week's edition of Tranquility du Jour, I chat with Laura Zam on: Redefining Pleasure in Midlife Laura shares how her personal journey with perimenopause and intimacy led to a deeper understanding of sensuality, eroticism, and pleasure. She introduces a four-part framework—sensuousness, sensuality, eroticism, and sexuality—to help women reconnect with their bodies and desires at every age. Creative Confidence and Evolution From theatre to writing to public speaking, Laura discusses her lifelong commitment to creativity and how midlife has brought greater urgency and clarity. With growing confidence, she embraces her evolving voice and sheds expectations to stay true to her purpose. Everyday Rituals of Joy and Self-Care Laura's daily "pleasure thoughts" practice weaves together sensory experience, gratitude, pride, and intention. She shows how even small delights—a warm drink, a good lamp, a sweet memory—can become powerful sources of tranquility and resilience. Tranquility Through Proportional Pleasure In times of overwhelm, Laura turns to what she calls "proportional pleasure," using beauty, nature, and simple rituals to balance emotional intensity. It's a gentle invitation to anchor in joy, even amid chaos. Hit subscribe on your favorite podcast app such as Spotify, Apple Podcast, Amazon. Visit kimberlywilson.com/podcast for more and Substack for shownotes. Grab your journal, a cuppa tea, and settle in for this week's inspiration. Our Guest: Laura Zam   Laura Zam is an award-winning writer, TEDx speaker, AASECT Certified Sexuality Educator, and Pleasure Empowerment Coach. Her work has been featured in many media outlets, including NBC-TV, The Washington Post,InStyle, and others. She's the author of THE PLEASURE PLAN, a bestselling memoir--about healing in the aftermath of childhood trauma--currently being shopped around as a television series. Often mixing pathos and hilarity in refreshing ways, Laura's writing has been featured in The New York Times, Salon, HuffPost and other publications. Her one-person play about finding pleasure after sexual violation was presented Off-Broadway. She's toured other plays about trauma healing all over the world. As a speaker, through her company Pleasure Literacy, LLC, Laura has presented at universities, conferences, and fortune 500 companies across the U.S. Pleasure Literacy helps people build resilience, and avoid harm, by better understanding, navigating, and cultivating everyday pleasure. Laura is the host of a new podcast called Zam On Pleasure, and she also loves working directly with people through pleasure-oriented courses and coaching. She's a graduate of the Institute for Sexuality Education & Enlightenment. She's also a Certified Trauma Professional (CTP) and Registered Yoga Teacher (RYT). Laura has a Bachelor's degree from Brooklyn College and a Master's from Brown University. Find Our Guest Freebie: Pleasure Thought Guide Author, THE PLEASURE PLAN Web: LauraZam.com Twitter/X: @LauraZam Instagram: @LauraZamPleasure Facebook: @LauraZamAuthor Previous Episodes: #167: Musings on Leaving Your Day Job, #489: The Pleasure Plan Mentioned in the Show & Announcements Digital Courses to Nourish the Midlife Soul   Craving more beauty, balance, and intention in midlife? Join the Substack Private Collection for just $1.90/week ($99/year) and receive: 🧘‍♀️ Five exclusive tranquility tools each month—think journal prompts, meditations, private podcast episodes, veg recipes, and playlists 🗓️ My Month in Review packed with personal reflections and favorite resources 🎁 Occasional bonus treats crafted just for paid subscribers Your midlife journey deserves nourishment and support—come cozy up inside the private circle! 💗 Save your spot on the Coterie waitlist and get immediate access to a 30-days of Tranquility challenge

In this week's edition of Tranquility du Jour, I chat with Lauren Cerand on: 💗 Redefining Success in Midlife Lauren reflects on her journey from a career-focused New Yorker to a values-driven creative seeking slowness, depth, and shared experiences. She shares how time, not ambition, is now her most treasured currency. 💗 Letting Go of the Checklist Life From living in Italy to finding home in Baltimore, Lauren describes the evolution of her priorities. She beautifully illustrates how releasing outdated identities creates space for deeper alignment and soulful connection. 💗 The Art of Friendship and Community Lauren offers heartfelt wisdom on cultivating friendships in adulthood—highlighting the power of showing up, inviting others in, and embracing long-haul relationship-building with grace and intentionality. 💗 Tranquility in the Everyday Whether cooking for friends, tending a garden, or gathering for literary salons, Lauren finds tranquility through simple pleasures and authentic connections. Her midlife is marked not by hustle, but by presence and purpose. Shownotes: https://kimberlywilson.substack.com/t/podcast 👩🏼‍💻 JOIN US: Instagram | www.instagram.com/tranquilitydujour        Website I https://www.kimberlywilson.com _______ 🌸 RESOURCES: 💌 Get Love Notes | https://www.kimberlywilson.com/lovenotes 📚 My books | https://www.kimberlywilson.com/books ⚜️ Substack | https://kimberlywilson.substack.com 🎧 Podcast | https://www.kimberlywilson.com/podcast 📬 Reach out | [email protected] 🍵 Tea with Kimberly video playlist | https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXkWnFGXbr1V81RdRtlLY0rqgHfE_woTD

In this week's edition of Tranquility du Jour, I chat with Aga Rhodes on: 💗 Grieving with Grace and Grit Aga shares the profound shift she's experienced since losing her husband, highlighting the importance of honoring grief while gently moving forward. She encourages women to embrace the messiness of healing, giving themselves permission to feel deeply and take it one day at a time. 💗 Beauty as Self-Expression and Therapy As a seasoned makeup artist, Aga offers practical beauty tips—like the uplifting power of blush and bold lipstick—alongside reflections on how small acts of self-care can boost morale and restore confidence during life's darker seasons. 💗 Daily Rituals for Resilience Grounding practices like gratitude journaling, meditation, and quiet coffee moments help Aga anchor her days. She urges women to craft simple routines that nourish their well-being, especially when navigating transition or caretaking responsibilities. 💗 Turning Pain into Power Aga speaks of post-traumatic growth, sharing how the loss of her husband has opened a portal to reinvention. Whether publishing his poetry or dreaming new dreams, she reminds us that even in sorrow, new life can emerge. Shownotes: https://kimberlywilson.substack.com/t/podcast 👩🏼‍💻 JOIN US: Instagram | www.instagram.com/tranquilitydujour        Website I https://www.kimberlywilson.com _______ 🌸 RESOURCES: 💌 Get Love Notes | https://www.kimberlywilson.com/lovenotes 📚 My books | https://www.kimberlywilson.com/books ⚜️ Substack | https://kimberlywilson.substack.com 🎧 Podcast | https://www.kimberlywilson.com/podcast 📬 Reach out | [email protected] 🍵 Tea with Kimberly video playlist | https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXkWnFGXbr1V81RdRtlLY0rqgHfE_woTD

In this week's edition of Tranquility du Jour, I chat with Michele Nidiffer on: 💗 Healing Through the Senses Michele shares how scent, sound, and movement have helped her connect more deeply with herself and others. Her practices, including sensory walks and aromatherapy, serve as gentle invitations to slow down and tune in. 💗 Living in Alignment with Nature Rooted in the rhythms of the seasons, Michele's approach to life and work embraces natural cycles of rest, renewal, and bloom. She encourages midlife women to honour their internal seasons with softness and curiosity. 💗 Creative Expression as Soul Work Michele reflects on her artistic journey and how creativity has served as both a mirror and balm through her life's transitions. From nature-based art to writing, her creativity flows from a deep well of intuition and wonder. 💗 The Beauty of Tending to Yourself Michele models a nourishing self-relationship by integrating rituals like journaling, flower arranging, and intuitive movement. Her story is a reminder that tending to ourselves is not selfish—it's sacred. Shownotes: https://kimberlywilson.substack.com/t/podcast 👩🏼‍💻 JOIN US: Instagram | www.instagram.com/tranquilitydujour        Website I https://www.kimberlywilson.com _______ 🌸 RESOURCES: 💌 Get Love Notes | https://www.kimberlywilson.com/lovenotes 📚 My books | https://www.kimberlywilson.com/books ⚜️ Substack | https://kimberlywilson.substack.com 🎧 Podcast | https://www.kimberlywilson.com/podcast 📬 Reach out | [email protected] 🍵 Tea with Kimberly video playlist | https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLXkWnFGXbr1V81RdRtlLY0rqgHfE_woTD

In this week's edition of Tranquility du Jour, I chat with Amanda Sloat on: Embracing a Midlife Sabbatical After nearly two decades in high-intensity government roles, Amanda made the bold decision to step away, put her belongings in storage, and embark on a year of solo travel. She shares how this period of exploration has given her space to rediscover joy, creativity, and a sense of adventure. Prioritizing Experience Over Waiting for the 'Right' Time Amanda emphasizes the importance of pursuing dreams now rather than delaying them for an uncertain future. Inspired by personal loss and a deepening awareness of time's finiteness, she set out to fulfill lifelong aspirations—like seeing orangutans in the wild—before it was too late. Finding Wellness and Balance on the Road Traveling long-term presents challenges, but Amanda has maintained her well-being through daily yoga, mindful eating, and long walks. She shares how small, consistent habits—like a simple 10-minute morning yoga practice—have helped her stay grounded amid constant movement. The Power of Reinvention and Intentional Living With no fixed plan for what comes next, Amanda is using this sabbatical to reflect on what truly matters—where she wants to live, how she wants to work, and who she wants to surround herself with. Her journey serves as a reminder that midlife is an opportunity for reinvention and making intentional choices that align with one's values. Hit subscribe on your favorite podcast app such as Spotify, Apple Podcast, Amazon. Visit kimberlywilson.com/podcast for more and Substack for shownotes. Grab your journal, a cuppa tea, and settle in for this week's inspiration     Our Guest: Amanda Sloat Amanda Sloat is a foreign policy expert, spending 20 years in Washington DC working for the U.S. government (Congress, State Department, and National Security Council) and non-profit organizations. She is also a passionate yogi, beginning her practice with Kimberly Wilson at Tranquil Space. After serving for three years as President Biden's European policy advisor in the White House, Amanda embarked on a year of mindful travel that took her from Borneo and the Australian outback to Paris and Cartagena. She recently moved to Madrid, where she is Professor of Practice in the School of Politics, Economics, and Global Affairs at IE University. Find Our Guest LinkedIn X: @a_sloat Instagram Mentioned in the Show & Announcements Year of Tranquility digital course: 52 weekly lessons aligned with midlife Join the Substack Private Collection for five monthly tranquility tools to support your midlife journey plus my month in review with resources, and occasional extras for only $1.90/week ($99/year) Save your spot on the Coterie waitlist.

In this week's edition of Tranquility du Jour, I chat with Alisa Kennedy Jones on: Redefining Midlife as The Empress Age Alisa introduces the concept of The Empress Age—a powerful phase between career/motherhood and the so-called crone years. She reframes midlife as a time of immense creativity, wisdom, and generative energy, rather than decline or invisibility. Navigating the Complexities of Perimenopause With over 30 possible symptoms, perimenopause can be a confusing and isolating experience. Alisa emphasizes the importance of being your own advocate, finding knowledgeable healthcare providers, and recognizing that each woman's journey is unique. The Power of Connection and Confidence in Career Midlife brings professional reinvention, but also moments of doubt. Alisa shares her strategies for overcoming self-doubt, including borrowing confidence from role models, trusting that her future self will solve problems, and leading with curiosity in career transitions. Finding Tranquility in the Midst of Change Whether through daily yoga, walking meditations, magnesium for relaxation, or simply holding hands with a loved one, Alisa highlights the importance of grounding rituals. She encourages midlife women to reclaim their own stories and embrace curiosity as a tool for transformation. Hit subscribe on your favorite podcast app such as Spotify, Apple Podcast, Amazon. Visit kimberlywilson.com/podcast for more and Substack for shownotes. Grab your journal, a cuppa tea, and settle in for this week's inspiration.   Our Guest: Alisa Kennedy Jones Bespoke brand consultant and bestselling author Alisa Kennedy Jones is recognized as one of today's most insightful and original voices on brand intelligence. Fluent in five languages, her celebrated TEDx talk on epilepsy changed the way we think about creativity, electricity, and the brain, and her debut bestseller Gotham Girl, Interrupted became a global phenomenon in the field of narrative medicine. When not writing her next comedic novel Ellery Allbright Goes Dark, Alisa is having the best time ever heading up a variety of initiatives, including The Empress, gotham girl, and the midlife women's publishing house Empress Editions. As a memoirist, blogger, and screenwriter, her words have been featured widely across national media outlets such as NPR, and TEDx, and as part of the Academy Award-nominated documentary CRIP CAMP, Executive Produced by Michelle & Barack Obama. An advocate for disability, neurodiversity, mental health, and epilepsy, her collection of comedic essays GOTHAM GIRL INTERRUPTED (Imagine/Penguin Random House) was a #1 new release on Amazonand is available everywhere books are sold as well as on Bookshop.org, IndieBound, and Barnes & Noble. Find Our Guest Instagram The Empress on Substack gotham girl on Substack Past Podcast Episodes: #607: Midlife Musings Mentioned in the Show Coterie: a signature program to support your journey though live virtual events, digital courses, community, and more. Join the waitlist. Year of Tranquility digital course: 52 weekly lessons aligned with midlife   Join the Substack Private Collection for five monthly tranquility tools, my month in review with resources, and occasional extras for only $1.90/week ($99/year) All Tranquility du Jour offerings: work 1:1, salons, digital courses, and more

In this week's edition of Tranquility du Jour, I chat with Lesley Ware on: Creative Evolution and Bold Reinvention Lesley shares how she transitioned from an office job to a full-time creative career, embracing fashion, writing, and entrepreneurship. She highlights the importance of taking risks, following curiosity, and allowing creativity to evolve over time. Navigating Change with Self-Compassion Through major life transitions—including career shifts, personal loss, and shifting energy levels—Lesley emphasizes the power of self-care, therapy, and giving herself grace. She shares how tuning into her needs has helped her stay grounded through uncertainty. Embracing Personal Style at Any Age Lesley encourages midlife women to experiment with fashion and self-expression without hesitation. She reminds listeners that style isn't just for the young—it's a lifelong form of creativity and confidence that should be explored and enjoyed. Prioritizing Peace and Intentional Living From decluttering her space to curating relationships and daily rituals, Lesley has embraced a more mindful approach to life. She focuses on surrounding herself with uplifting people, objects, and experiences, ensuring that everything in her environment brings joy and inspiration. Hit subscribe on your favorite podcast app such as Spotify, Apple Podcast, Amazon. Visit kimberlywilson.com/podcast for more and Substack for shownotes. Grab your journal, a cuppa tea, and settle in for this week's inspiration.   Our Guest: Lesley Ware Lesley Ware is an experienced educator in sewing and design, with over 11 years in the field. She is also an author, known for her books on fashion and style for youth, including How to Be a Fashion Designer and Black Girls Sew. In 2021, Lesley founded Art to Ware, a New York City-based wearable art gallery and socially conscious pop-up shop that curates small-batch, upcycled, and locally-made fashion. Her work merges innovative fashion education with sustainability, creativity, and entrepreneurship, reflecting her commitment to a more inclusive and forward-thinking fashion industry. In the classroom, Lesley inspires students to explore fashion with a mindful, progressive, and out-of-the-box perspective, encouraging them to shape the future of design. She currently teaches at the Parsons School of Design and The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Find Our Guest Instagram Substack Past Podcast Episodes: #331: Sew Fab Part 1, #332: Sew Fab Part 2, & #518: Create Your Style Mentioned in the Show Year of Tranquility digital course: 52 weekly lessons aligned with midlife   Join the Substack Private Collection for five monthly tranquility tools, my month in review with resources, and occasional extras for only $1.90/week ($99/year) All Tranquility du Jour offerings: work 1:1, salons, digital courses, and more

In this week's edition of Tranquility du Jour, I chat with Jamie Cat Callan on: Embracing Midlife as a Creative Renaissance Jaime shares how midlife is an opportunity to reconnect with past passions and reinvent oneself. Whether it's revisiting teenage interests like art or dance, or shifting career paths, she highlights how this stage of life offers a chance for rediscovery and personal growth. Navigating Change with Grace and Trust From career shifts to personal loss, Jaime reflects on the challenges of midlife and emphasizes the importance of trust, adaptability, and a positive mindset. She encourages embracing change rather than resisting it, knowing that even difficult transitions often lead to unexpected gifts. Cultivating Everyday French-Inspired Beauty Living with intention and ceremony, Jaime infuses her days with Parisian charm—savoring small pleasures like tea in fine china, fresh flowers, and red lipstick. She reminds us that beauty is found in the details and that a cultivated, mindful life brings joy and fulfillment. The Power of Rest and Reflection Jaime swears by her daily nap, a habit passed down from her French grandmother and even favored by Jackie Kennedy. She finds that these moments of rest keep her energized and creatively inspired, reinforcing the importance of slowing down and honoring one's well-being. Hit subscribe on your favorite podcast app such as Spotify, Apple Podcast, Amazon. Visit kimberlywilson.com/podcast for more and Substack for shownotes. Grab your journal, a cuppa tea, and settle in for this week's inspiration.   Our Guest: Jamie Cat Callan Jamie Cat Callan is known for her French lifestyle books, mostly recently, Parisian Charm School from Penguin Random House. She is also the creator of The Writers Toolbox from Chronicle Books. She is currently finishing her novel about an American girl in Paris during the tumultuous month of May 1968. Her short stories and essays have appeared in The New York Times, American Letters & Commentary, Story, Sun Magazine and The Missouri Review. She is a recipient of grants from the New York Council on the Arts, the Pen American Center, The Massachusetts Council on the Arts and the Connecticut Commission on the Arts. She has been awarded residency fellowships from the Ragdale Foundation, the Edna St. Vincent Millay Colony, Dorland Mountain Artists Colony, the Vermont Studio Center, the Helene Wurlitzer Foundation and the Virginia Center for the Arts (in Virginia, as well as international residencies in France and Germany). She taught creative writing at Wesleyan University, New York University, U.C.L.A., the Low Residency MFA Program at the University of Southern Maine, Fairfield University and she served as a teaching fellow at Yale University. Jamie received an MFA in Film, Theatre and Television from UCLA, an MA in Creative Writing from Goddard College and a BA in Literature with a focus in poetry from Bard College. She lives in New York's Hudson Valley on a small working farm with her husband, William G. Thompson, a retired Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution scientist. Find Our Guest Website Instagram Substack Facebook Past Podcast Episodes: #289: finding your ooh la la, #414: Parisian Charm School Mentioned in the Show Year of Tranquility digital course: 52 weekly lessons aligned with midlife Join my Substack Private Collection for five monthly tranquility tools, my month in review with resources, and occasional extras for only $1.90/week ($99/year) All Tranquility du Jour offerings: work 1:1, salons, digital courses, and more

In this week's edition of Tranquility du Jour, I chat with Lucia Shaw on: Taking Up Space with Confidence Lucia reflects on how midlife has brought her a sense of freedom from past insecurities. She shares how embracing new experiences, letting go of perfectionism, and showing up fully—without apology—has been transformative in both her personal and professional life. The Power of Performance and Embodiment Participating in the International Adult Ballet Festival was a life-changing experience for Lucia, helping her connect with her body, overcome fear, and step into confidence. She describes how performing on stage unlocked a fearless approach to networking, creative expression, and even professional headshots. Finding Courage to Be Seen and Heard Lucia discusses the importance of asserting her identity, whether through correcting the pronunciation of her name or allowing herself to take up space in daily life. She encourages women to stop minimizing themselves and instead embrace their presence fully—whether it's rolling a noisy suitcase unapologetically or walking into a room with self-assurance. Tranquility in Motion For Lucia, tranquility isn't about stillness—it's about movement. She finds peace through ballet, music, time in nature, and activities that engage both body and mind. Whether practicing arm movements in her kitchen or hugging a tree to reset after a stressful day, she highlights the importance of physical connection in cultivating inner calm. Hit subscribe on your favorite podcast app such as Spotify, Apple Podcast, Amazon. Visit kimberlywilson.com/podcast for more and Substack for shownotes. Grab your journal, a cuppa tea, and settle in for this week's inspiration.   Our Guest: Lucia Shaw Lucia Haynes is a screenwriter and former journalist, based in the UK. Over two decades, she has written for crime dramas, including Vera, Annika, The Marlow Murder Club and The Good Ship Murder, and has 12 credits for continuing drama – or soaps. Lucia enjoys writing for children and young people and has worked on several shows for CBBC and CBeebies, operated by the BBC. Lucia's expertise in storytelling has led her to being invited to be a jury member for BAFTA (Scotland), on three occasions, adjudicating on their prestigious annual awards. She has two Master's degrees – in French language and literature (including French cinema) and in Radio and TV Scriptwriting. As well as commissioned work, Lucia is currently writing feature length scripts in the grounded sci-fi genre. She enjoys compelling, entertaining stories which explore contemporary issues. In her spare time, Lucia is passionate about ballet and creative paper engineering projects. In 2024, she danced in the International Adult Ballet Festival, in Florida. Find Our Guest X LuciaHaynes.com Mentioned in the Show Year of Tranquility digital course: 52 weekly lessons aligned with midlife Join the Substack Private Collection for five monthly tranquility tools, my month in review with resources, and occasional extras for only $1.90/week ($99/year) All Tranquility du Jour offerings: work 1:1, salons, digital courses, and more