To 50 and Beyond - Midlife and Living Alcohol-Free
Welcome to To 50 and Beyond, where I invite you into conversations about midlife and living alcohol-free. Here, we focus on the possibilities ahead of you and the practices you can start right now, so you can connect with yourself and design a lifestyle alcohol can't touch. I'm Lori Massicot, born November 11, 1967, post-menopause, and after 30 years of drinking, I decided at 45 that alcohol no longer worked in my life. So I went all in on living alcohol-free, and what I found was a full life, a different life, and honestly a better one than I ever expected. Since 2018, I've worked privately with women as a coach and mentor, helping them go alcohol-free and stay alcohol-free, their way. You can expect episodes that cover either honest storytelling about midlife and living alcohol-free, or reflections and practices you can start right now. Hanging out with me is your time, and I'm excited to be right here with you, doing this together. I get a feeling you're here because you're ready, ready to rock your very best self To 50 and Beyond. Let's go. Learn more at www.lorimassicot.com Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice. Always consult a qualified professional regarding your personal situation.
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What I'm Doing to Take Care of Myself Right Now - Ideas For You
01/29/2026
What I'm Doing to Take Care of Myself Right Now - Ideas For You
Hello! I recorded an episode to let you know what I'm doing to take care of myself and my anxiety right now. These are some of my favorites that I focus on throughout the week, not daily as a "work from home" gal. I wanted to check in with you to let you know I'm still here and offer ideas to find relief without drinking alcohol. Here are the daily prompts that I walk you through to practice: Ask yourself: What do I need less of right now? What do I need more of right now? What can I do for myself right now? What can I let go of for today? You don’t need to answer all of them. One is enough. I'm sending you a big hug. Stay Connected Please if you want to say hello or share what you're doing right now to take care of yourself. Support Me and My Work Your support means the world to me. Thank you for being here. Peace.
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New Year, Same Courageous and Capable You
01/02/2026
New Year, Same Courageous and Capable You
Happy 2026! Thank you for listening to the podcast. I appreciate you! In this episode, I offer you a different take on "New Year, New You" energy. I hope that you take time to reflect on how far you've come in life and go "all in" on what you want and don't want in 2026. I’ll be back to the podcast, but right now I’m doing a lot of reflecting and soul-searching. To stay in touch, you can join For personalized support through private sessions, To walk alongside me and other women living alcohol-free, you can join
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A Holiday Check-In: You Are Not Alone
12/17/2025
A Holiday Check-In: You Are Not Alone
Hello! I'm so happy to be here with you. I'm popping in to check in with you this holiday season. As 2025 comes to a close, I want to offer words of encouragement to help you navigate the holiday alcohol-free. Whether this is your first year, your second, or many years in. I talk about growth, discomfort, awkward moments, grief, and why outgrowing alcohol is a sign that you’re evolving, which is a good thing! I also share where I am right now, slowing down, focusing on one thing at a time, and letting intuition and flow guide me. And a personal story from my first sober Christmas and what changed in the years that followed, along with a reminder that you’re not alone in this season. There are so many women walking through this right alongside you, including me. I'm with you. Thank you for being here with me. ✌🏻 Mentioned in this episode:
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Take a Walk With Wonder This Season
11/23/2025
Take a Walk With Wonder This Season
Episode 343 Hello, friend! Happy holidays and happy season of midlife and beyond! This episode was inspired by a walk I took this morning and the possibilities that open up when you walk with the topic of wonder. I invite you to walk with wonder during the holiday season and the season of midlife, using curiosity instead of pressure to explore what’s possible for you. Wonder expands your perspective and opens doors you may not have touched or considered in a long time (or ever!) I share simple prompts you can take with you anywhere, but I suggest taking a walk with this one! I'm with you. I appreciate you so much for listening. XO Mentioned in This Episode • • My 2025 Holiday Gift Guide for Midlife Women Living Alcohol-Free: Stay in touch and work with me in December: • TAF enrollment for 2025 closes on 12/1: • Schedule a 60-minute Clarity Session: • Join my email newsletter, The Moment:
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Choosing Yourself in Midlife | My Interview on The Change Effect Podcast with Noelle Van
11/12/2025
Choosing Yourself in Midlife | My Interview on The Change Effect Podcast with Noelle Van
Hey there! I'm sharing my interview with my friend Noelle Van on her podcast, because it's all of our favorite topics that we discuss on To 50 and Beyond! In this episode, we talk about: The myth of “rock bottom” and why real change begins with your decision, not a catastrophic event. How negotiating and bargaining with alcohol keeps us stuck Navigating the unique challenges of quitting alcohol in midlife The ways alcohol-free living can bring clarity, emotional freedom, and renewed energy during the perimenopause and menopause transition. The importance of accountability, support, and community when breaking free from drinking Rediscovering your true self, embracing self-care, and finding peace with “being enough” at every age. The ongoing journey of recovery, self-compassion, and redefining success beyond productivity and external achievements. Why change is the catalyst for creating the life you deeply desire. If you’re contemplating your relationship with alcohol, struggling with change in midlife, or simply ready to put yourself at the center of your own story, this honest and inspiring episode is for you. You can find Noelle Thank you for listening! Mentioned in this episode: S
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Expectations and Empowering the Word "Still"
10/29/2025
Expectations and Empowering the Word "Still"
Episode #341 Hello there! I'm glad you're here. Today, I want to have a conversation about the word “still” — how it can either make us feel stuck, like we’re not doing enough, or trapped in frustration and confusion. But it can also be a word we use to empower ourselves. This year especially, I’ve had heartfelt conversations with women who feel like they’re in a transition, still figuring things out. Whether it’s about their relationship with alcohol or their life in general. There’s a lot of outgrowing happening, a lot of evolving, and I want to talk about what it really means to be “still” in the middle of all that. If you’re feeling stuck, unsure, or frustrated, know you are not alone. Build yourself up today and reframe how you're using still. You’ll hear: How “still” can feel limiting or powerful depending on how you use it. My honest experience with quitting alcohol and the unexpected challenges. Common struggles women face midlife when changing their relationship with alcohol. I'm with you 100%. Take care of yourself this week. Peace. ✌🏻Before you go... Could You Do Me a Favor? A Quick Apple Podcast Review Hearing from you is SO helpful as I sit down behind the mic each week. If this or any other episode helped you, please consider taking a few minutes to help me reach more women in midlife who need to know that living alcohol-free is possible. Here’s how to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts: Open the Apple Podcasts app on your phone. Search for “To 50 and Beyond” and open the show page. Scroll down to the Ratings & Reviews section. Tap “Write a Review,” choose your star rating, and share whatever feels right. Tap “Send” to submit your review. I read all of my reviews and will send you a virtual hug after reading yours. Thank you for your support! Mentioned in this episode:
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Tired of Sounding Like a Broken Record? Try an "Opposite Day!"
10/22/2025
Tired of Sounding Like a Broken Record? Try an "Opposite Day!"
Episode #340 Have you ever found yourself saying you want to try something new or stop doing something? If you said, Yes! This episode is for you! "Broken-record-idis" is a thing, and I share my recent experience declaring an "opposite day"—a simple practice of intentionally doing something opposite of your usual routine, especially in midlife. Whether it's skipping the grocery store to avoid wine, taking a different walk route, or wearing something unexpected, small shifts can spark joy and motivation. Planning a day to do the "opposite" is about breaking monotony, releasing natural dopamine, and inviting a fresh perspective without pressure or big commitments. If you try it and want to share with me, I would love to hear from you! If you are interested in private coaching or have questions about Team Alcohol-Free, you can send me an email Thank you for listening! See you soon:) Mentioned in this episode: I forgot to mention that I enjoyed both the book and the movie! Team Alcohol Free's new three-month subscription option gives you the opportunity to try out our community during the holidays and into 2026. We are a community of midlife and beyond women working together to create and live an alcohol-free style that feels good to us.
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Reminders to Help You Stay Alcohol-Free on Vacation and in Restaurants and Redefine "Day One"
10/15/2025
Reminders to Help You Stay Alcohol-Free on Vacation and in Restaurants and Redefine "Day One"
Episode #339 This episode is inspired by a few of my listeners who reached out to me via my email. I've heard from so many women over the past seven-plus years who have said, I'm on day one, and I've heard from a couple of listeners recently who have shared their experiences and their challenges with staying alcohol free on vacation and in restaurants. In this episode, you will hear more about my first vacation sober, my experiences in a restaurant in the early days, and honest reminders to help you stay alcohol-free on vacation and in restaurants. You will also hear a straightforward reminder and message to help you redefine “another day one” if you have gone back to drinking and are starting fresh. I'm with you! Thank you for listening. Find things here... To read this episode's full show notes, click Write to me Download The Daily Sobriety Toolkit Join my email newsletter, The Moment,
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Noelle Van on Long-Term Recovery and How to Transition Out of Corporate
10/08/2025
Noelle Van on Long-Term Recovery and How to Transition Out of Corporate
Episode #338 Hello there! I'm happy you're here. Today's episode is a conversation among midlife friends. Our guest today is Noelle Van. Noelle has been on the podcast twice before, starting with episode 24 (see below). She is someone I appreciate having conversations with because she is authentically herself. During this episode, Noelle and I talk about where Noelle is with getting older - the joys and challenges. Noelle talks about how being in recovery has helped in other areas of her life and where she is now in long-term recovery. Noelle talks about her life in Corporate and how to identify burnout, and take the first steps towards transitioning out of the Corporate world, and more good stuff about change in midlife. Thank you for listening. I appreciate you. To read this episode's full show notes, Check out Noelle's past episodes: Episode #24: Episode 230:
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End-of-Year Check-In: What Will You Focus on and Not Focus On?
10/01/2025
End-of-Year Check-In: What Will You Focus on and Not Focus On?
Episode 337 Picture us sitting down with our favorite beverage and notebooks, and I ask you: What do you want to focus on and not focus on before the clock strikes midnight on 1/1/2026? It's a question I asked myself before I recorded this episode, and this is what we're talking about today! I share a letter I wrote to myself on 12/31/24 with my goals and dreams for 2025. I talk about what is working in my life that I want to continue to focus on in 2025, a few things I want to start, and something I want to let go of and not focus on. Throughout the episode, I check in with you to help you get clear on the progress you've made, the things you are doing that are working in your life, and what you want to spend your time focusing on and not focus on for the remainder of the year. I have a correction: I mentioned SMART goals and incorrectly used the acronym. The correct meaning is: Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound. Thank you for allowing me to be human and make mistakes 😊. I would LOVE to hear from you! to share what you're focusing on and not focusing on for the rest of 2025. Thank you for listening! You can read the transcript of this episode Mentioned in this episode: Work With Me Download the free Daily Sobriety Toolkit
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Life After Alcohol: Navigating Thoughts About Drinking Without Drinking
09/17/2025
Life After Alcohol: Navigating Thoughts About Drinking Without Drinking
Episode #335 Drinking thoughts can be frustrating after you stop drinking. I have had many conversations with women recently that prompted this episode. If you're in "them", you're going to get through them. Drinking to quiet the thoughts only makes them stick around. In this episode, I talk about the most common thoughts many midlife women experience, like "I could have just one," "I deserve a drink," and "Why can’t I drink like others?" I share a walk-through of what my day looked like after I stopped drinking—from waking up proud of not drinking, through the growing anticipation and stronger thoughts by afternoon and evening, to making it through despite the discomfort. I talk about some of the reasons why these thoughts come up and why they did for me personally. And, I share ideas to help you navigate these thoughts without drinking and remind you that, in time, they won't be as consistent. If you're in "the thoughts", you're going to get through them. Drinking to quiet the thoughts only makes them stick around. I'm with you! Download the free Daily Sobriety Toolkit Mentioned in this episode: Hellolori@lorimassicot.com Private Coaching for Midlife Women You and me = a Team to help you create and live an alcohol-free lifestyle. I'm so passionate about the work that I do. I would love to help you if you are looking for guidance in either getting started or maintaining your sobriety. You are not alone in this. If you would like to learn more about private coaching, please schedule a complimentary discovery session Join my Community Gain access to weekly meetings, daily inspiration, and lots of connections with midlife women who are living alcohol-free. Plus, you will receive long-term support for a one-time investment, + additional resources added monthly. TAF was established in 2023, and we are growing stronger together! If you feel like you've been missing out on alcohol-free girlfriends and coaching, join us today!
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Changing Your Drinking and Supporting Loved Ones Through the Process with Amber Hollingsworth
09/10/2025
Changing Your Drinking and Supporting Loved Ones Through the Process with Amber Hollingsworth
Episode 334 Hello! Thank you for being here today. This episode offers hope to anyone seeking to change their drinking, as well as to family members who wish to support their loved ones through the process with compassion and understanding. I'm honored to welcome our guest, Amber Hollingsworth, to the podcast. Amber is a master addiction counselor, founder of Hope For Families Recovery Center, and creator of the YouTube channel Put The Shovel Down. With over two decades of experience, she’s helped thousands of families navigate addiction recovery using innovative, relationship-focused strategies like the Invisible Intervention. Known for her relatable, no-nonsense approach, Amber's philosophy is centered on empowerment and compassion, believing that people don’t need to hit rock bottom to recover and that recovery is about redirecting addictive energy toward positive, fulfilling life goals. She emphasizes that individuals and families have the influence and strength to create lasting change through trust, safety, and a strengths-based approach, rather than relying on shame or control. You will hear Amber talk about: The true process of changing your drinking—and where to begin by taking intentional breaks from alcohol The early signs it may be time to rethink your drinking, and what Amber calls “stage three” Why is moderation so challenging, given how alcohol impacts brain chemistry and self-control How to navigate what Amber describes as "the bargaining stage" to stay alcohol-free What to expect in early sobriety and how to approach a break from drinking The instincts family members have that can unintentionally hinder progress—and what they can do to truly support a loved one Amber offers hope, insight, and actionable tools for anyone facing change or supporting someone they love. Click here for Connect with Amber Connect with Lori
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A Conversation About Seasons of Life, Aging, and Recovery with Leigh and Anne Walkup
09/03/2025
A Conversation About Seasons of Life, Aging, and Recovery with Leigh and Anne Walkup
Episode #333 Hey there! I'm so happy you're here. Today, I'm talking to two of my favorite people, Leigh and Anne Walkup. The sisters are back on the podcast to share their thoughts on aging (the joys and the challenges), perimenopause, and we talk about the different seasons of life. We also talk about recovery and sobriety in the news - it's good news and it's here to stay, as you will hear. The sisters share their thoughts about what recovery is like and why it's beneficial to embrace. They also share their favorite beauty product at the moment, what they're reading and watching, and the latest from their Fall issue of Front Porch Life Magazine. It's a fun episode! Thank you for listening! Mentioned in this episode: Leigh and Anne’s past episodes: Enroll in Team Alcohol-Free Gain access to weekly meetings, daily inspiration, and lots of connections with midlife women who are living alcohol-free. Plus, you will receive long-term support for a one-time investment, + additional resources added monthly. TAF was established in 2023, and we are growing stronger together! If you feel like you've been missing out on alcohol-free girlfriends and coaching, join us today!
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Ideas for Celebrating Sober Anniversaries for You and Loved Ones
08/27/2025
Ideas for Celebrating Sober Anniversaries for You and Loved Ones
Episode #332 Hello, friend! Welcome to To 50 and Beyond, where we talk about living alcohol-free later in life. I'm glad you're here! Have you ever wondered whether you should celebrate your sober anniversaries—or those of loved ones? I sure did! I wasn’t sure if my first year was worth celebrating or how to celebrate it, but over time, I figured it out. I just celebrated 12 years on August 11, 2025, and in this episode, I talk about my favorite ways to celebrate. I also talk about: Why celebrating every sober milestone, big or small, makes a difference in staying motivated Creative and simple ways to honor your journey and anniversaries Practical ideas for supporting loved ones who are working on sobriety with authenticity and care To read this episode's full show notes, Thank you for listening! I appreciate you. If you want to share the ways you celebrate, please email me at . Mentioned in this episode: Private Sobriety Coaching for Midlife Women Six sessions over six weeks from the comfort of your home to help you remove alcohol, start living alcohol-free, and create a plan that helps you stay alcohol-free beyond our time together. Learn more and schedule a complimentary discovery session Join my online community - the best online alcohol-free community only for midlife women (that’s what makes it the best) Gain access to weekly meetings, daily inspiration, and lots of connections with midlife women who are living alcohol-free. Plus, you will receive long-term support for a one-time investment, + additional resources added monthly. TAF was established in 2023, and we are growing stronger together! If you feel like you've been missing out on alcohol-free girlfriends and coaching, join us today!
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Listener Appreciation: I'm Proud of You Keep Going
08/06/2025
Listener Appreciation: I'm Proud of You Keep Going
Episode 331 A heartfelt message from me to you. Thank you for listening to the To 50 and Beyond podcast. Whether this is your first time or over 400th time, I appreciate you more than words can say. I recorded this episode to share my appreciation for you and empower you to keep going towards the life you want in midlife and beyond! I'm with you 100%! I will be back with a new episode on August 27th. I'm in my "normalizing breaks and honoring flow" era;) To join my community, Team Alcohol-Free, If you would like to share your feedback for the podcast or a topic, Visit my website Please consider leaving a rating and review on Apple or Spotify to show your support for the podcast and mission. It's so helpful for me to know who is here. Thank you for listening! You ROCK! Mentioned in this episode:
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Make Your Morning Routine Work For You
07/30/2025
Make Your Morning Routine Work For You
Episode 330 Hey there! I'm so happy you're here. I LOVE talking about morning routines! Morning is your time. That’s what having a morning routine is all about. It’s you saying, ‘I matter.’ Everything else can wait. All the responsibilities and to-dos—they’ll get done, just not before you take care of yourself. A morning routine that works for you is not about getting up early—unless you want to. It’s about dedicating at least 10 minutes to doing something for yourself after you wake up - whatever time that is. In this episode, you’ll discover: The signs you may need a morning routine: Signs You Might Need a Routine My story two years into sobriety, when I started my morning routine inspired by Practical ways to start your morning, all from midlife women who are working on living alcohol-free The importance of being flexible with yourself and honoring your energy every morning to make your mornings work for you Resources Mentioned: Join Team Alcohol-Free Gain access to weekly meetings, daily inspiration, and lots of connections with midlife women who are living alcohol-free. Plus, you will receive long-term support for a one-time investment, + additional resources added monthly. TAF was established in 2023, and we are growing stronger together! If you feel like you've been missing out on alcohol-free girlfriends and coaching, join us today!
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Listen to Help You Get Centered On Why You Don't Want to Drink
07/23/2025
Listen to Help You Get Centered On Why You Don't Want to Drink
Episode 329 Hey there! One of the biggest things I share is what’s helped me stay alcohol free—focusing on why I didn’t want to drink more than why I did. That’s not easy, but it’s powerful. I call it Why Power—something I started saying years ago in a community meeting: Why Power over Willpower. In this episode, I invite you to reflect on your reason why you don’t want to drink. If you’re like me, you could always find reasons to drink—or you didn’t even need a reason. This reflection will help you get started in living alcohol-free or reinforce your choice if you're already living alcohol-free. I'm with you! Reach out to me via email for private coaching or to share your "why-power" Read this episode's show notes and download the worksheet included Team Alcohol-Free (TAF) is an online community created exclusively for midlife women who have chosen to live alcohol-free. Gain access to weekly meetings, daily inspiration, and lots of connections with midlife women who are living alcohol-free. Plus, you will receive long-term support for a one-time investment, + additional resources added monthly. TAF was established in 2023, and we are growing stronger together! If you feel like you've been missing out on alcohol-free girlfriends and coaching, join us today! Check out these episodes next:
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Everyday Self-Care to Support Your Alcohol-Free Lifestyle
07/16/2025
Everyday Self-Care to Support Your Alcohol-Free Lifestyle
Episode 328 Do you have a consistent self-care practice? If you said no, chances are there is one thing you are doing for yourself that you may not identify as self-care. By the end of this episode, I'll help you define what self-care is and feels like for you, and start calling out what you're already doing for yourself today. What you'll hear inside: The definition of self-care and how to find the meaning for you My self-care before and after I stopped drinking Why consistency (in self-care) matters to help you be proactive when you experience drinking urges/triggers The common challenges that women in midlife face in practicing self-care, starting with not knowing how to do it (this is the purpose of the episode) Why most women believe alcohol = self-care, and how to shift your mindset to sobriety = self-care Practical ways to get started with more consistent self-care by starting with what you’re already doing To read this episode's full show notes, go Resources Mentioned:
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Listen to Help You "Play the Tape Forward"
07/09/2025
Listen to Help You "Play the Tape Forward"
Episode #327 I'm so glad you're here! Please if you need help in working through the "drinking chatter" and any romantic thoughts about drinking, if you are working on living an alcohol-free lifestyle. If you’re a woman in midlife working on living alcohol-free, this episode is for you. “Playing the tape forward” is a favorite practice of many women who are working on living an alcohol-free lifestyle. One of the biggest challenges is the thoughts and ideas about drinking - the “drinking chatter” as I like to call it. What “playing the tape forward” means: It’s about being honest with yourself about your drinking. Visualizing what happens after the first sip of alcohol (which I walk you through in this episode) to the last, to help you get clear on what plays out for you. I help you get clear on what happens if you drink versus if you don’t. Whether you drink occasionally or daily, this practice helps you see the real outcome of taking that first sip. I also share a few of my journal entries from when I stopped drinking in 2013 that still help me remember the reality of my drinking. Send me an email for Private Coaching: Team Alcohol-Free (TAF) is an online community created exclusively for midlife women who have chosen to live alcohol-free. Gain access to weekly meetings, daily inspiration, and lots of connections with midlife women who are living alcohol-free. Plus, you will receive long-term support for a one-time investment, + additional resources added monthly. TAF was established in 2023, and we are growing stronger together! If you feel like you've been missing out on alcohol-free girlfriends and coaching, join us today!
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My First Year of Sobriety: What I Did to Stay Alcohol-Free
07/02/2025
My First Year of Sobriety: What I Did to Stay Alcohol-Free
Episode 325 Hello, friend! Thank you for being here. If you're in your first year of sobriety, congratulations! I'm very proud of you wherever you are on this road to alcohol freedom in midlife. During this episode, I'm sharing the things that helped me stay alcohol-free during my first year. I stopped drinking in 2013, choosing to go it alone. I stuck to simplicity because that is all I knew. I wasn't sure if I was doing things "right," but here we are today, almost 12 years later. I've been able to sustain sobriety because I've done what works for me. This is what I encourage you to do in this episode. Here is what I did during my first year: I committed fully to sobriety as my priority, despite not being naturally disciplined. I focused on my why - feeling better, aging better, and not continuing to repeat the same life year after year I celebrated my progress (eventually), saying yay, me! became a fun habit. I protected myself by avoiding situations that might tempt me to drink. I kept busy with my business and productive activities instead of drinking. I started "Project Me" by making exercise my focus and using my gym membership. I read quit-lit books that inspired and guided me through early sobriety. I learned to sit with discomfort instead of numbing out with alcohol. I talked about my feelings instead of bottling them up. I allowed myself sugar and other substitutes without guilt. Disclaimer: This episode is not intended to be a substitute for any medical advice. to read this episode's details and show notes. Thank you for listening! Yay, you!! Please to share what is working for you. Are you looking for a community? Join the Team! Team Alcohol-Free (TAF) is an online community created exclusively for midlife women who have chosen to live alcohol-free. Gain access to weekly meetings, daily inspiration, and lots of connections with midlife women who are living alcohol-free. Plus, you will receive long-term support for a one-time investment, + additional resources added monthly. TAF was established in 2023, and we are growing stronger together! If you feel like you've been missing out on alcohol-free girlfriends and coaching, join us today!
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Life After Alcohol: Learning to Love Yourself More with Paula Muller
06/25/2025
Life After Alcohol: Learning to Love Yourself More with Paula Muller
Episode 325 Hello! I'm so happy you're here! This podcast is all about living alcohol-free later in life, and my guest today, Paula Muller, is living proof of living alcohol-free later in life. Paula is an incredibly supportive member of my online community, who brought this wonderful topic of learning to love yourself more to me as a topic. When I heard it, I was "all in!" Paula shares her story of starting to drink at 13, how alcohol became part of her identity, and what led to her decision to stop drinking for good on April 8, 2024—a night in a hotel room that changed everything. We discuss how Paula navigated her stepdaughter’s wedding alcohol-free, the mindset shift that’s come with celebrating her first year sober, and how self-love has become possible for her only after letting go of alcohol. Paula discusses the ups and downs of early sobriety, the importance of trusting the process, and the resources and practices that have helped her along the way. You can go to read the full show notes. Thank you for listening! Mentioned in This Episode Here is her favorite Team Alcohol-Free (TAF) is an online community created exclusively for midlife women who have chosen to live alcohol-free. Gain access to weekly meetings, daily inspiration, and lots of connections with midlife women who are living alcohol-free. Plus, you will receive long-term support for a one-time investment, + additional resources added monthly. TAF was established in 2023, and we are growing stronger together! If you feel like you've been missing out on alcohol-free girlfriends and coaching, join us today! Check out these episodes next: Help me spread the word! There is another option besides drinking in midlife. If you liked this episode and want to take a few minutes to support the podcast, I want to encourage you to leave a positive rating and review on Apple Podcasts. So many women out there don’t know there is an “alcohol-free” option and are struggling with their drinking. Your support will help these women find the podcast this week and learn about an alcohol-free lifestyle later in life. ➡️Click , scroll to the bottom of the page, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” I read my reviews and will hug you when I see yours. Make sure to “follow” To 50 and Beyond to get all of the wonderful episodes coming your way. If you don’t click “follow," you will miss hearing what’s coming up. Thank you!
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Staying Alcohol-Free on the "Patio" This Summer
06/18/2025
Staying Alcohol-Free on the "Patio" This Summer
Episode 323 Welcome back to the To 50 and Beyond Podcast! I've missed being here with you. Coming your way are brand new episodes for the summer, starting with today's episode, which is all about staying alcohol-free on the "patio" this summer. Your "patio" is any challenge, including a literal patio, that you are concerned may come between you and your alcohol-free lifestyle. What you’ll hear: I'll help you identify what your specific summer triggers are instead of feeling overwhelmed by "not drinking all summer.” The reason why trying to live the same summer as when you were drinking can leave you feeling let down. I share my own experience with patios, summer wines, and how I had to change things up. Practical ways to transform your challenging spaces—whether that means skipping your Aunt Sally's barbecue or making your patio an alcohol-free friendly zone with new plants and glassware. I'll share how I went from avoiding my couch to creating new rituals, and how you can decide what works for you (and change your mind anytime). We get one summer of 2025 - let's make it the one you want, not the one you've lived in the past. I'm with you! Thank you for listening! Join the Team! Team Alcohol-Free (TAF) is an online community created exclusively for midlife women who have chosen to live alcohol-free. Gain access to weekly meetings, daily inspiration, and lots of connections with midlife women who are living alcohol-free. Plus, you will receive long-term support for a one-time investment, + additional resources added monthly. TAF was established in 2023, and we are growing stronger together! If you feel like you've been missing out on alcohol-free girlfriends and coaching, join us today! Check out these episodes next: Help me spread the word! There is another option besides drinking in midlife. If you liked this episode and want to take a few minutes to support the podcast, I want to encourage you to leave a positive rating and review on Apple Podcasts. So many women out there don’t know there is an “alcohol-free” option and are struggling with their drinking. Your support will help these women find the podcast this week and learn about an alcohol-free lifestyle later in life. ➡️Click, scroll to the bottom of the page, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” I read my reviews and will hug you when I see yours. Make sure to “follow” To 50 and Beyond to get all of the wonderful episodes coming your way. If you don’t click “follow," you will miss hearing what’s coming up. Thank you!
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Listen When You Feel Left Out Because You're Not Drinking
06/18/2025
Listen When You Feel Left Out Because You're Not Drinking
Episode 323 Hello, friend! This episode is one to come back to whenever you feel alone in choosing to live alcohol-free. Whether you’re at home watching your favorite show where drinking is everywhere (hello, Real Housewives!) or at a party surrounded by drinkers, your choice to be alcohol-free is a badass one. You’re never truly left out when you’re choosing what’s right for you, and you always have support and community here with me and with other women making the same choice. I’m right here with you. Thank you for listening. If you liked this episode and want to hear more, please make sure to "follow" the podcast and consider leaving a rating and review on Apple or Spotify. Are you looking for a supportive community to help you enjoy your alcohol-free lifestyle and not feel left out? Join Team Alcohol-Free and connect with a coach who truly cares (that’s me!), weekly online meetings designed for real growth, and a daily support thread that’s fun, empowering, and a fantastic resource for midlife women. Join the Team If you would like to work with me privately,
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Negotiate for Yourself Not Alcohol
04/23/2025
Negotiate for Yourself Not Alcohol
Episode 322 Hey there! Thank you for being here. We are on a break after today. 💗 New podcast episodes will be coming your way in late spring. This episode is dedicated to the women worldwide who are doing the work to live an alcohol-free lifestyle and build a better, more trustworthy relationship with themselves. I see you and I stand with you. With summer approaching faster than we'd like and warm weather months ahead, I want to talk about shifting our focus from negotiating with alcohol to negotiating for ourselves to live the life we want. Summer can be challenging, and the temptation to have "just one" drink is real—no matter how long you've been alcohol-free. In this episode, I want to empower you to stay strong in your choice not to drink, even when the urge to negotiate with alcohol feels overwhelming. You deserve one more day without alcohol, which is one more day in favor of you! I’m with you. Mentioned in this episode: To stay in touch and receive blog articles and podcast updates, To join my community for midlife women and beyond,
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What Are You Aware of About Your Relationship with Alcohol?
04/02/2025
What Are You Aware of About Your Relationship with Alcohol?
Episode 321 The purpose of this episode is to take a moment to check in with you and your relationship with alcohol in honor of April being Alcohol Awareness Month. Whether you're alcohol-free curious, navigating early sobriety, or embracing long-term sobriety, this episode serves as both a reminder and a reflection—a chance to reconnect with the truth about you and alcohol. As a recovering "avoider," I share my story and the level of acceptance I reached when I stopped drinking, along with what I’ve come to know for sure about my relationship with alcohol after 11 years of sobriety. I also discuss what to do when you find yourself romanticizing alcohol to help you stay committed to living alcohol-free. I've got you! Thank you for listening! Mentioned in this episode: Team Alcohol-Free is open for enrollment If you're looking to work with me and connect with a community of women who truly understand your journey and support your alcohol-free lifestyle, join Team Alcohol-Free before enrollment closes on April 11th.
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Never-Ending To-Do Lists and Playing Catch Up
03/26/2025
Never-Ending To-Do Lists and Playing Catch Up
Episode 320 Tired of long to-do lists and playing catch-up? Yeah, me too! If you feel like you're working hard at catching up and have to wait to relax until you do, this episode is for you! I've had an epiphany about the unrealistic expectations I put on myself. One day, a few weeks ago, I said ENOUGH! I'm working towards being more intentional with my time and energy to get done what is important and taking a break even with a long list of to-do's! In this episode, I share my truth and encourage you to be honest and realistic with yourself if you need more time for yourself and your tasks are standing in your way. The prompts I use in this episode: What can I do? Focus on 1-3 things a day. What can't I do? What is outside of your control - leave it. What do I want to do or don't want to do? Get rid of the fluff to be more intentional with what brings you joy and energy. What can I save for later? Write it down and tuck that "later list" away. I'm with you! Send me an email if you want to learn more about private coaching To join Team Alcohol-Free for Spring enrollment, click
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The Next Chapter: Rediscovering Who You Are After Alcohol
03/12/2025
The Next Chapter: Rediscovering Who You Are After Alcohol
Episode 319 Hello friend! I'm glad you're here. If you're working on living alcohol-free, yay, you! It is a bada** move. If you are or have experienced the big, confusing questions like "Who am I now? or What do I even like to do?" after alcohol, you are not alone. When I stopped drinking at 45 after starting at 14, that first year was a complete identity crisis. In this episode, I talk about the transition to the "next chapter" alcohol-free. The identity crisis after drinking, and why you are not alone if you feel unsure of who you are and what you enjoy doing after alcohol. The prompts I share to open up a more expansive conversation with yourself: "What am I looking forward to learning more about myself in this next chapter?" "What is this relationship that I want to build with myself?" "What do I enjoy doing?" This is your opportunity to rebuild your relationship with yourself, redefine who you are, and create an authentic, fulfilling life. Taking control of your relationship with alcohol takes immense strength. You've got this. I'm with you! A personal note: I missed you last week. I may be a bit of an infrequent podcaster as I'm getting my life, business, and podcast topics organized. I will be back on 3/19 and 3/26 with new episodes and give you another update at this time. I appreciate your listenership and patience. Sending you a virtual hug! Mentioned in this episode: Join the Team! Team Alcohol-Free (TAF) is an online community for midlife women who have decided to stop drinking and start living an alcohol-free lifestyle. Enrollment starts soon! Stay connected to updates and enrollment dates by joining my
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The Midlife Sobriety Movement is Here
02/26/2025
The Midlife Sobriety Movement is Here
Episode 318 The Midlife Sobriety Movement is here and I’m here for it! I felt compelled to share this episode because of the incredibly strong women in my community, private coaching sessions, and email network. Over the past seven years, I’ve had the honor of connecting with midlife women from around the world who are choosing to give up alcohol as they embark on this next chapter of their lives. Their motivations are diverse—whether for health reasons, recognizing an unhealthy reliance on alcohol, or because drinking no longer aligns with their values and beliefs. In 2025, many women are embracing an alcohol-free lifestyle, and if you’re making that choice too, know that you are not alone! You are a trailblazer. A badass. A woman that I’m honored to be on this journey with.✌🏻 In this episode, I discuss the embarrassment I felt after I stopped drinking on August 11, 2013, how Instagram reshaped my mindset around sobriety, and the reality that while we cannot rewrite history or change the stigma surrounding sobriety, we can come together in this powerful movement of midlife women living alcohol-free. Together, we will stand strong in our choice to no longer let alcohol take center stage in our lives—instead, we'll step into all the roles alcohol once played and embrace our capabilities and "main character energy!" I’m with you! Mentioned in this episode: To enroll in Team Alcohol-Free during our pop-up enrollment, go Reach out if you would like to work with me privately or have a topic for the podcast by sending an email to .
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The Benefits of Going "All In" with Leigh and Anne Walkup
02/19/2025
The Benefits of Going "All In" with Leigh and Anne Walkup
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Reframing "Time Wasted" Drinking
02/12/2025
Reframing "Time Wasted" Drinking
Episode 316 Hey there! If you're working on living alcohol-free in midlife and beyond, I'm VERY proud of you! You are making a positive change in your life. I know what it's like to live with the regret of drinking. In midlife, it's an especially challenging time to face these feelings. If you're feeling like maybe it’s too late to change your drinking, it’s not! You're not alone if you get those “cringy” memories from your drinking or think, I should have done things differently. I'm with you on this and we will face it together. In this episode, I talk about my two biggest drinking regrets, explain how drinking to cope with regret makes things worse, and show you how passive time spent drinking can be turned into active time spent healing and learning to forgive yourself. My hope for you is that you will reframe those "time wasted" feelings into motivation and optimism to move forward alcohol-free. Keep your eyes on the road ahead and practice gratitude for yourself in getting you here. Sending you a big virtual hug! ✌️ If you want to email me, I would love to hear from you! Click to send me an email. Mentioned in this episode: To enroll in Team Alcohol-Free during winter enrollment, go I really am a big Counting Crows fan - I was talking about. It's called Murder Of One - you know when things are right on the tip of your tongue? 🙂
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