Bite-Sized Balance Podcast with Wendy McCallum
Bite-Sized Balance is a podcast where everyday extraordinary women share their stories, expertise and wisdom with other women - all in the name of lifting each other up and creating a better life balance. Whether it’s wellness, career, relationships, alcohol, food, mindfulness, hormones or parenting - we talk about all things women’s balance. If your life looks great "on paper" but it still feels like something is missing, you're in the right place. Wendy McCallum, the host of Bite-Sized Balance, is a Certified Burnout & Balance Coach and Wellness Expert who has spent over ten years helping busy high achievers create more joyful, balanced lives. As an experienced coach (and ex-lawyer!) she speaks with honesty and empathy. No stranger to burnout, she’s been where many of her clients find themselves. Wendy has a background in nutrition and wellness (RHN, NNCP), life coach training through CTI, and a sub-specialty in alcohol-free life coaching (as a Certified Naked Mind Coach). She helps busy people reduce stress, prevent burnout, and replace unhealthy coping mechanisms like food, alcohol and social media) with healthier habits. Find Wendy at www.wendymccallum.com
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Season 4 Wrap-Up: Reflections, Joy, and New Beginnings with Sarah Baillie
12/19/2023
Season 4 Wrap-Up: Reflections, Joy, and New Beginnings with Sarah Baillie
In this bittersweet season finale, Sarah Baillie and I come together to share some big news: the early wrap-up of Season 4. It's been a tough decision, but one that opens up exciting opportunities on the horizon for both of us. We peel back the curtain on the "why" behind this choice, exploring the joyous spaces it's creating for personal pursuits. For me, Wendy McCallum, it means dedicating more time to my passion for writing fiction and diving into my Business Building Bootcamp community for coaches and my podcast, The Coaching Edge. Meanwhile, Sarah is excited about immersing herself in patient care, family time, and generating innovative ideas for her coaching practice. We take a trip down memory lane, reminiscing about where we began in Season 1 (the "fake podcast") and marveling at the incredible journey of personal and professional growth since our estrogen-fueled conversations about nurturing and women’s midlife. Join us for a heartfelt review of what we've cherished about Bite-Sized Balance, the joy it's brought us, the key things we’ve learned, and the bonds it's forged. As we bid adieu to Season 4, we embark on a hiatus, ready to focus on fresh endeavors and recharge our creative spirits. This isn't goodbye; it's a "see you soon" as we gear up for new beginnings. Thank you for being a part of this incredible journey—and stay tuned, we’ll likely be back in some form or fashion again. We’ve got too much to say! To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit: To contact Sarah Baillie about coaching, email her at: Psst...Coaches! Follow Wendy at
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No One Is Coming: Embracing Personal Responsibility for a Joyful Life with Sarah Baillie
12/12/2023
No One Is Coming: Embracing Personal Responsibility for a Joyful Life with Sarah Baillie
In this second to last episode of Season 4 of Bite-Sized Balance, I'm joined by Sarah Baillie to explore what’s been a game-changing concept for both of us: "No One Is Coming." We dive deep into the profound reality that if our lives aren't what we want them to be, the power to change that rests solely in our hands. This awakening often hits women hard in midlife, around menopause, as the awareness of time becomes more acute. Drawing inspiration from unexpected places like the Trolls movie, Sarah shares her insights into personal responsibility and the freedom it brings. We discuss the big-picture and smaller-picture ways we can apply the idea of "No One Is Coming" to craft days and years that align with our desires. Letting go of what doesn't serve us, whether it's social media, alcohol, or unfulfilling relationships, creates uncomfortable but fertile space for creativity and the exploration of what brings us joy. Join us as we discuss the difference between reacting and responding, and how saying no more often opens up the space to live a life that feels genuinely better. I also share some exciting changes in my own journey to joy, focusing on fiction writing and my business coaching program for coaches. Get ready for an episode that encourages you to take charge, make proactive and intentional choices, and embrace the freedom that comes with realizing that you are the captain of your own ship! To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit: To contact Sarah Baillie about coaching, email her at:
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Shifting the Narrative: What If It Goes Right?
12/05/2023
Shifting the Narrative: What If It Goes Right?
Hey there, lovely listeners! First, I've got some big news to share with you on this short episode of Bite-Sized Balance. But mostly, I want to dive deep into a mindset shift that has truly transformed my life (and that I recently applied in relation the big decision that prompted today’s announcement): the powerful perspective shift from "What if it goes wrong?" to the game-changing question, "What if it goes right?" Fear and anxiety have a sneaky way of holding us back, keeping us stuck in situations and habits that don't serve us. They're like quicksand, trapping us in a cycle of hesitation and self-doubt. But what if, instead of succumbing to fear, we embraced anticipation, excitement, and hope? These emotions act as catalysts, propelling us into action and nudging us towards the outcomes we desire. In this episode, we unpack the magic that happens when we shift our perspective, exploring how a simple change in mindset can transform our actions, decisions, and ultimately, our lives. So, grab your favorite beverage, tune in, and let's embark on a journey of empowerment, courage, and embracing the endless possibilities that come with asking, "What if it goes right?" To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit:
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Money Talks: Empowering Women in Midlife with Natasha Carrillo
11/28/2023
Money Talks: Empowering Women in Midlife with Natasha Carrillo
In this down-to-earth episode, Wendy sits down with Natasha Carrillo, a Financial Educator and Coach, to chat all things women and money. No stiff suits or complicated jargon here – just a real conversation about why women need to take the reins when it comes to their finances, and how avoiding the topic isn’t serving us! Natasha breaks down the impact our upbringing has on our money mindset and shares some practical advice on how to shift those beliefs to feel more empowered about our cash. They tackle everything from why budgeting isn't a bad word to the secret to curbing emotional spending. So, if you're ready to kiss financial stress goodbye and step into your planning power, grab your coffee and tune in. Natasha's practical tips will make you realize managing your money isn't just for the suits; it's for every woman out there looking to make her wallet work for her midlife and retirement dreams. To connect with Natasha and learn more about her work, check out her website at
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Mastering Holiday Balance: A Practical Guide
11/21/2023
Mastering Holiday Balance: A Practical Guide
In this short episode of Bite-Sized Balance, I'm serving up practical, empowering strategies to keep your holiday balance in check, with a goal of you wrapping up the year feeling rested, restored, and not even a tiny bit over-stuffed and annoyed! I'm dishing out practical tips on how to prioritize what truly matters by deciphering between energy drains and gains, and using the 4 Ds (delete, delegate, defer, and do) to get those lists serving you better. No more overcommitting, no more overwhelm. Join me as I set the stage for a transformative personal experiment this year. Learn how to craft feeling-based goals, allowing you to navigate December with a sense of purpose and fulfillment. Together, we'll redefine your holiday experience, leaving you restored, recharged, and completely resentment-free come January. So, buckle up for a journey of conscious choices, self-care, and holiday harmony. Let's make this season truly magical and leave you feeling lighter and more fulfilled than ever before. To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit:
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Finding Joy in the Little Things: Sobriety and Gratitude with Guest Client Chantal
11/14/2023
Finding Joy in the Little Things: Sobriety and Gratitude with Guest Client Chantal
In this heartwarming episode of Bite-Sized Balance, Wendy McCallum sits down with a remarkable guest, her client Chantal. Chantal recounts her transformative journey from decades of addiction to true freedom from alcohol. Chantal candidly shares her experience with the medication Antabuse and the pivotal role it played in her recovery. The conversation takes a beautiful turn as Chantal unveils her unique practice of specific gratitude, demonstrating how it has reignited joy in her life. By focusing on the little things, she has discovered the immense power of gratitude in her journey toward lasting freedom from drinking. This episode is an inspiring testament to the profound impact of finding joy in the simplicity of everyday moments. We talk about: Naltrexone v. Antabuse as aids in sobriety Gratitude as part of your sobriety toolkit Finding the joy when your life looks “good on paper” but something is missing The unexpected gifts of sobriety To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit:
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The Magic of "Holding It Lightly" with Sarah Baillie
11/07/2023
The Magic of "Holding It Lightly" with Sarah Baillie
In this brief yet powerful episode of Bite-Sized Balance, my regular guest and BFF Sarah Baillie and I explain the transformative idea behind "Holding it Lightly", a tool we both use regularly in our coaching practices. I open up about a challenging period in my life and how intentionally loosening my grip on the problem (with the help of a fantastic coach!) led to a remarkable shift in my feelings, behaviors, and overall well-being. We explore the tendency among women to hold tightly to situations and desired outcomes, and how often this is driven by a need for control. But we can’t control other people, we can only choose how we respond and react to them. Have a listen and then experiment with holding life a little more lightly yourself – we can’t wait for you to discover the magic that unfolds when you let go of the need to tightly grasp every aspect of your journey! To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit: To contact Sarah Baillie about coaching, email her at:
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Rewiring Your Brain: The Blueprint for Permanent Habit Change with Adele Spraggon
10/31/2023
Rewiring Your Brain: The Blueprint for Permanent Habit Change with Adele Spraggon
In this fascinating episode, I’m joined by Adele Spraggon, a Behavioral Change Expert and author, to explore the complicated world of decision-making in your brain. Adele sheds light on why your brain is always making choices on your behalf (spoiler alert: it's not your fault!) and unveils the step-by-step path to reprogramming it with a fresh set of operating instructions. Together, we dig into neuroscience to uncover how understanding your brain can empower you to make positive changes in your life (in all areas, even your drinking!). If you've ever wondered why you do what you do, and how to regain control, this episode is your key to unlocking your brain's full potential. In this conversation, Adele and I delve into practical strategies and insights that can help you take charge of your decision-making process. We talk about: Why you can’t (and shouldn’t) believe everything you think Why you also shouldn’t always believe what your BFF thinks Why you need to stop asking “why” you’re doing something and ask “what” you’re thinking, feeling, and doing- instead And why breaking free from habits that aren’t serving you isn’t nearly as much work as you think! Learn more about Adele at Get her book here:
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Embracing the Space in Midlife with Sarah Baillie
10/24/2023
Embracing the Space in Midlife with Sarah Baillie
In this short and insightful Bite-Sized Balance episode, my regular guest and BFF, Sarah Baillie, and I explore the notion of "Filling the Space" that often arises as we begin to say "no" to things that no longer serve us, set boundaries, and experience a shift in caregiving duties as our children grow older. Sarah beautifully articulates the common discomfort we feel with unoccupied time, driven by societal expectations of busyness. This tendency to fill the void immediately can lead to hasty decisions that don’t actually serve us and the adoption of unhealthy coping mechanisms. Sarah's heartfelt story about "Hershey," the almost-adopted dog, highlights the profound lessons she gained about her own relationship with free time. Tune in to uncover how embracing the space in midlife can pave the way for authentic self-discovery and transformation. To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit: To contact Sarah Baillie about coaching, email her at:
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Ayurveda, Women’s Hormones and Midlife with Carina Greweling
10/17/2023
Ayurveda, Women’s Hormones and Midlife with Carina Greweling
No matter what kind of healing or balance you're seeking in this season of life, you've probably realized that quick fixes and shortcuts rarely bring about lasting results. But taking that initial step towards educating yourself is the first stride toward creating real change. In this episode, I sit down with Ayurveda Health Coach, Carina Greweling, who helps women achieve lasting hormone balance by restoring healthy sleep, gut health, and energy. She's a certified Ayurveda Hormone Coach, Chinese medicine practitioner, and naturopath. In this crash course in Ayurvedic wisdom, Carina explains the three constitution types known as doshas, which are rooted in the five fundamental elements of earth, water, fire, air, and ether. According to Ayurvedic medicine, the doshas play a significant role in shaping an individual's physical, emotional, and mental characteristics. This was all new to me, but I found it fascinating. It’s a really interesting complementary approach (that’s been around for thousands of years!) to conventional approaches to supporting midlife wellness. We talk about: Understanding Ayurveda as a holistic system of healing, that includes the physical, spiritual, and emotional aspects, within the context of the universe and nature The three constitution types and why you might resonate with more than just one The influence of the earth’s seasons on Vata, Pitta, and Kapha How drinking alcohol might impact your constitution type The significance of aligning lifestyle habits—such as sleep, nutrition, and movement—with your constitution type You can learn more about Carina and connect with her on her website at , and listen to her podcast . Work with Carina:
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Unlocking Daily Joy: The Power of Gratitude Practice
10/10/2023
Unlocking Daily Joy: The Power of Gratitude Practice
Today we're diving deep into a transformative practice that can supercharge your daily joy and make you feel like you can tackle the big challenges in your life. Gratitude is not just a buzzword; it's a game-changer. It has empowered me to stay so much more present as a parent, wife, and daughter, especially in the last year of my dad’s life. In this episode, I’ll share why your gratitude practice may have been ineffective in the past and what steps you have to take to make it a meaningful habit so that you can enjoy the benefits on a daily basis. The gift of gratitude is that it grounds you in the present moment. When you're actively searching for things to be grateful for, you can't help but be fully present. Links Mentioned: Episode 23: To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit: https://www.wendymccallum.com/
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Laura Cathcart Robbins: Motherhood, Ambien Addiction, and Recovery
10/03/2023
Laura Cathcart Robbins: Motherhood, Ambien Addiction, and Recovery
Did you know that 1 in 10 women relies on sleep aids regularly? It's a staggering statistic, but it's hardly surprising. In today's fast-paced world, where we juggle demanding careers, relationships, never-ending to-do lists, hormonal shifts, and mental health challenges, even a mere six hours of sleep can seem like an unattainable dream. What might surprise you, however, is the potential danger hidden within those seemingly harmless sleeping pills. Today, I have the privilege of being joined by a remarkable guest on the podcast—a TEDex Speaker, the accomplished author of Stash: My Life in Hiding, and a fellow podcaster, Laura Cathcart Robbins. Laura's memoir takes us on a riveting journey through addiction and recovery. She opens up about her struggles, how she navigated a high-profile Hollywood marriage and divorce, all while facing the challenges of parenting in a world marked by privilege and racism. Laura generously shares her perspective on the multiple rock-bottom moments that defined her journey and her experience as the only person of color in most of her recovery circles. I was also eager to delve into what drove Laura to write this memoir, which reveals both the painful and hopeful moments along her path to reclaiming her life. She sheds light on the raw details of her writing journey, including facing rejection letters from sixteen publishers and completing her first draft in a mere six months. (Whaaaat?) We talk about: Why Laura felt compelled to turn to Ambien as a coping mechanism for life's pressures The pivotal moment when Laura realized her kids had taken a back seat to her struggle The disparities in Laura and her divorce attorney's definitions of "success" The importance of creating more inclusive spaces for people of color in recovery circles How Laura meticulously curated her memoir, deciding what to include and what to leave out To learn more about Laura Cathcart Robbins and her work, be sure to visit her website at , where you can grab her memoir: and check out her podcast You can also follow her on Instagram .
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Sober in October: Here's Your Plan for Taking a Mindful Break From Alcohol
09/26/2023
Sober in October: Here's Your Plan for Taking a Mindful Break From Alcohol
If you’ve been curious about what life might look like without alcohol, Sober October is the perfect time to do an experiment. I’m sharing this episode with you now so you have some time to prepare for a successful break from alcohol because it absolutely requires having a solid plan. First, you’ll want to start examining your assumptions about alcohol, even before you stop drinking. Practically speaking, you’ll also need to decide what you’ll drink instead and how you’ll respond when people ask why you’re taking a break. I’ll also share why it’s critical that we track all the positives of not drinking and learn the science around how alcohol impacts our brain and body. Lastly, I’ll talk about how doing this experiment with support can make this time of reflection so much more valuable. You can grab your (a Coach-Led Mindful Break from Alcohol) for $100USD off before October 15th using the code OCTOBERREWIND. In this episode, you’ll learn Why the term “sober” might not resonate with you Why you shouldn’t believe everything you think What critical decisions you need to make before your break from alcohol begins What resources you can use to fill your mind instead of your glass Why support is helpful in making this mindful break successful To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit:
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How to Fall Back into a Healthy Routine
09/19/2023
How to Fall Back into a Healthy Routine
Vacations are over and the kids are back at school. It’s that time of year when we often feel the need to get “back on track” and into the structure and routines that help us thrive. But something that we rarely consider is that as life changes, so does our personal “recipe for success.” Be it in relationships, careers, added responsibilities, shifting hormones, or the ages of your kids, life has a way of changing and throwing curve balls when it comes to maintaining a healthy routine. So if you’re looking to establish some new habits around sleep, food, movement, mental health, unhealthy coping mechanisms (or any other area of positive change), this episode is the perfect place to start. With the tips you gather here, you’ll be able to evaluate all the variables in your life at this moment so you can create habits and routines that are both achievable and supportive of your body’s needs. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why we have to consider our season of life as we build new habits How one area of change can easily fuel change in other areas of your health Why letting habits go can be just as powerful as adding habits in How to break down your habits into achievable tasks The impact of journaling about the change you want to see in yourself To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit: https://www.wendymccallum.com/
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Mommy Wine Culture: Why It’s Not About the Wine with Coach Celeste Yvonne
09/12/2023
Mommy Wine Culture: Why It’s Not About the Wine with Coach Celeste Yvonne
There’s a very pervasive social narrative that moms need alcohol in order to survive motherhood. This is what is known as “mommy wine culture” and chances are, you’re all too familiar with this messaging because the marketing behind it is really unavoidable. On this episode, I’m joined by life coach and author of It’s Not About the Wine, Celeste Yvonne to help us uncover the real reasons moms want to escape and why alcohol as a coping mechanism is just adding to the mayhem. We will talk about the challenges for mothers returning to the workforce, the insane lack of postpartum support, and the pressure to regularly achieve impossible parenting standards. But we’re not just exposing the problem. Celeste gives us some practical advice for how to start redistributing the mental load with your partner or support system and why being active in a sober community can transform your perspective on motherhood. In this episode, you’ll learn Why it’s important to get curious about your defensiveness about drinking The moment that Celeste learned she didn’t have to gaslight herself any longer Why the pressure to enjoy every moment of motherhood is unsustainable The first step to take towards redistributing the division of labor in your home Why you don’t have to identify as an “alcoholic” (or hit rock bottom) before you get curious about your relationship with alcohol To learn more about Celeste and her work, connect with her on her website at or follow her on Instagram . Be sure to grab her book, - which is available now! To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit:
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What We Did This Summer (Season 4 Opener with Sarah Baillie)
09/05/2023
What We Did This Summer (Season 4 Opener with Sarah Baillie)
Aaaand we’re back for Season 4! My lovely co-host Sarah joins me as we share some summer updates and ease back into routines and rhythms that keep us sane! I finally moved into the house we’ve been renovating for months, but then we had to deal with the flooding of my husband’s business and the cottage. Sarah spent a good portion of the summer in her favorite corner of the couch with a book but became a professional camp shuttle and laundry service for her busy kids too. Both of us loved enjoying the pockets of time we did have when our kids were home, and also found ways to let go of the pressure to coordinate schedules and meals for everyone as we have in the past. Sarah and I will also check in about our goals for the fall which include working smarter, not harder, and focusing more on the work we love most! Last but not least, you’ll catch a sneak preview of all I have in store for you this brand-new season of the podcast! In this episode, you’ll learn: What we planned vs. what really happened this summer Why we were aren’t meal-prepping much these days Why it’s so hard to maintain boundaries when everyone is home again How Sarah plans to add in more joyful movement in the fall Why Wendy is prioritizing time-blocking To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit: To contact Sarah Baillie about coaching, email her at:
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Everybody's Doing Their Best (Season 3 Finale with Sarah Baillie, N.D.)
06/27/2023
Everybody's Doing Their Best (Season 3 Finale with Sarah Baillie, N.D.)
Wendy and Sarah are back again to wrap up season 3 of BSB and talk about the one impactful mindset shift they have made in the last couple of years that has led to them living with more compassion and way less judgment. Drawing on a Brené Brown anecdote, Wendy and Sarah explain how everything changes when we start assuming that everyone, even the people who frustrate and disappoint us most, are “doing their best.” We can then decide how to respond from a place of empathy instead of criticism. Everybody’s best looks different, and our “best” can change from day to day, but using the “what if they’re doing their best” lens helps you treat people with kindness and compassion and can also lead to you also being able to show yourself more of the same. Topics include: How to get started with a practice of empathy Stepping into empathy while also setting boundaries Wendy & Sarah’s goals for this summer BONUS: Summer reading recommendations To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit: https://www.wendymccallum.com/ To contact Sarah Baillie about coaching, email her at:
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Full Nest Syndrome (Empty Nest Update with Sarah Bailie, N.D.)
06/20/2023
Full Nest Syndrome (Empty Nest Update with Sarah Bailie, N.D.)
Wendy talks about how the empty nesting went last year with Sarah, and how she is feeling now that both of her kids are home for the summer. Just one year ago on the podcast, Wendy shared the reality of Empty Nest Syndrome, including her apprehension and grief around her children leaving for university and the sale of their childhood home. But their time away brought many unexpected gifts, and she found herself enjoying the agency and freedom that came with the un-parenting. She traveled loads by herself, and she and her husband downsized to a fun downtown neighborhood. There was an adjustment period around how to both parent and “un-parent” from afar, and now with her kids back at home for the summer, there’s another re-adjustment happening for all of them as Full Nest Syndrome sets in. Topics include: understanding your own needs and communicating them handling friction with your newly “independent” adult children what you need to let go of and care less about to fully enjoy this time To connect with Wendy about her coaching and programming, visit: To contact Sarah Baillie about coaching, email her at: [email protected]
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Infertility, Depression & Alcohol with Maureen Benkovich
06/13/2023
Infertility, Depression & Alcohol with Maureen Benkovich
This week Wendy is joined by Maureen Benkovich. Maureen shares her moving personal story as she and Wendy have an honest discussion about infertility, pregnancy loss, grief, depression, and women’s drinking. Maureen is someone who has experienced the pain of infertility and knows firsthand how easy it is to get stuck in a cycle of shame and blame when it comes to grief, depression, and drinking. For years, she used alcohol as a way to cope with these challenges, and it only made things worse. But with help, compassionate support, and the latest neuroscience-based techniques, Maureen was able to break free from her patterns and transform her life. Now, as a life coach, she is committed to helping others do the same. Topics include: Maureen’s journey through multiple miscarriages and fertility treatments The painful decision to stop treatment Her failed adoption and the grief that followed Using alcohol to deflect the pain of that grief and friends’ pregnancies Her struggles with depression and anxiety, How Maureen found herself and peace on the other side of alcohol. To connect with Maureen, find her at or at To find out more about Wendy, visit
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Avoiding the Rock Bottom of Midlife with Dr. Sarah Baillie, N.D.
06/06/2023
Avoiding the Rock Bottom of Midlife with Dr. Sarah Baillie, N.D.
This week, Wendy is joined again by her friend and colleague Sarah Baillie, N.D. to talk about the practical steps women can take to avoid hitting an emotional rock bottom in midlife. Research suggests that most people are at their unhappiest in their forties, but that this continues to improve as they age. Sarah and Wendy believe there are ways to speed that process up! As more of their clients come to them looking for support in pro-actively making their midlife easier and happier, Wendy and Sarah have identified five key areas women can address to help create space for themselves during the time in their life when their energy and happiness are statistically at their lowest. Whether you’re preparing to head into the bottom of the u-curve of happiness, or if you’re already there, these suggestions can help you and the people around you create more peace and joy in your life. Topics include how to cut back on your to-do list, how to care less, how to say no, how to create space and time for yourself (it’s not as impossible as it seems!), and how to open up and communicate what you are experiencing with your family to make it easier to take what you really need. To contact Sarah Baillie about coaching, email her at: [email protected]
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The Hows & Whys of Feeling (Not Fixing!) Your Emotions with Jay Fields
05/30/2023
The Hows & Whys of Feeling (Not Fixing!) Your Emotions with Jay Fields
Wendy talks with Jay Fields, an educator, coach, and author who has taught the principles of embodied social and emotional intelligence to individuals and organizations for twenty years. If you’ve ever wondered how to get better at sitting with your emotions, instead of drinking, eating, or scrolling to escape them, Jay’s got the practical three-step solution. Wendy and Jay discuss the importance of feeling your emotions instead of “fixing” them, and how learning to do this using Jay’s approach allows us to respond instead of react, which in turn leads to deeper, more meaningful connections and personal relationships. Topics include how people-pleasing arises from a common childhood blueprint (“never make anyone else feel uncomfortable”); how trying to “fix” an emotion instead feeling and accepting it can lead to overwhelm and burnout; the power of the words “of course” when it comes to regulating your nervous system and connecting with yourself; how felt sense increases empathy, compassion and intuition, and how “solving” emotions causes us to abandon ourselves. More about Jay at:
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Female Friendships in Midlife with Dr. Sarah Bailie, N.D.
05/23/2023
Female Friendships in Midlife with Dr. Sarah Bailie, N.D.
Today’s conversation around the value of meaningful female friendships in midlife is especially poignant for host Wendy and her co-host Sarah, colleagues who have also become very good friends over the course of the last few years. They discuss how picture-perfect social media feeds can often lead to comparison and feelings of inadequacy, and how that can keep women from reaching out when they need more connection. But with midlife there’s a sense of coming home to oneself, and with that, a level of honesty that can make women finally feel they can admit when things are imperfect. Being able to build these deeper, more vulnerable friendships nurtures our energy. Midlife is also a time when many women feel they now also have time for themselves, and these high-value friendships that could have been put on the back burner while they were prioritizing their family’s growth. If you have a story about your friendships or have any ideas of topics you’d like to hear Wendy cover in Season 4, please reach out and let her know via email or the contact section of her website: https://www.wendymccallum.com/ To contact Sarah Baillie about coaching, email her at: [email protected]
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Breaking Up with Criticism and Praise with Lorna Wilson
05/16/2023
Breaking Up with Criticism and Praise with Lorna Wilson
What does your inner critic sound like? In this episode, Wendy introduces coach Lorna Wilson and they dive deep into how to silence your inner critic, identify the opinions or feedback you should be paying attention to, and how not to be reliant on receiving praise from others. Wendy shares how Lorna has helped her reframe criticism and tap into her own inner mentor. The discussion stems from the book Playing Big by Tara Mohr, which Lorna and Wendy both highly recommend to all women! Lorna Wilson's journey as a life coach began with a story of courage and resilience. As a young widow, she learned early on that navigating life is certainly not always easy, but it's our life experiences that can make us stronger and more determined to create a better future. Drawing on this strength, Lorna became a certified professional Life Coach, using her personal journey to help countless women on their own paths to personal growth and fulfillment. She then became a certified alcohol-free coach, where she helps women achieve a healthier, happier lifestyle by ending the conflict between their conscious desire to drink less and their unconscious belief that alcohol is beneficial. Lorna’s career experience in managing non-profit organizations and leadership roles in local government has given her a unique perspective on the challenges facing leaders and individuals in public service. She understands how those challenges can take you in a direction where you're no longer in alignment with your true calling, and that's why she's committed to helping her clients navigate the twists and turns of life, rediscover their true purpose, and unlock their full potential. If you’ve ever felt addicted to praise, or like one critic could topple your self-worth, you don’t want to miss this episode.
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How to Get More out of Midlife with Sarah Baillie (Part 2 of 2)
05/09/2023
How to Get More out of Midlife with Sarah Baillie (Part 2 of 2)
This is Part 2 of the “How to Do Less and Get More in Midlife” Episode. In Part 1, Sarah & Wendy discussed why so many women reach overwhelm and burnout in the care sandwich that is midlife. They shared their favourite coaching strategies and tools to help busy women scale back on their to-do list and clear some space to bring in more of the things that serve them. In this second instalment, they provide some concrete strategies for standing in personal responsibility and figuring out what you need more of in your life to create the next fulfilling joyful chapter, because no one is coming to do it for you. What matters to you about how you live the next 20 years of your life? What do you need more of? If you don’t know, how do you find out? To contact Sarah Baillie about coaching services, email her at: [email protected]
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How to Do Less in Midlife (Part 1 of 2) with Sarah Baillie, N.D., Coach
05/02/2023
How to Do Less in Midlife (Part 1 of 2) with Sarah Baillie, N.D., Coach
Friends and colleagues Sarah and Wendy talk about why so many of us reach overwhelm and burnout in the care sandwich that is midlife and share their favourite coaching strategies and tools to help busy women scale back on their to-do list and clear some space to bring in more of the things that serve them (listen to Part 2 of this episode, coming soon, for those strategies!). Topics include being v. doing, how to say no more often, how to care less, how to figure out what’s no longer serving you (energy drains v. gains), people pleasing and why it’s a dishonest way to show up, and how it’s not serving you or the people you are pleasing. They also discuss the answer to the most common question they hear from the women they support: Is this IT? (Spoiler: Nope. There’s SO MUCH MORE great stuff to come.) For more on coaching with Sarah Baillie, email her at: [email protected]
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Finding Yourself in Midlife: An Expat in Paris with Susan Hodgson
04/25/2023
Finding Yourself in Midlife: An Expat in Paris with Susan Hodgson
Susan Hodgson is an Irish expat coach helping women navigate new territory with their drinking amidst the challenges of living abroad and trying to find that elusive feeling of “home”. She lives near Paris with her French husband and three kids who enjoy correcting her grammar and complaining about holidays back to the Donegal rain. Susan shares her story of becoming alcohol-free, and Wendy and Susan discuss the common misconceptions of expat life, why it can make drinking less more challenging for women, the difference between what you do and who you are, mommy wine culture abroad, learning to feel emotions instead of numbing them, the concept of “home” and how to find it anywhere and discovering yourself in midlife. This is a lovely conversation with an even lovelier human. Enjoy! More about Susan: @sharp.sense.coaching on Instagram
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Imposter Syndrome and Perfectionism with Melissa Chureau
04/18/2023
Imposter Syndrome and Perfectionism with Melissa Chureau
Melissa Chureau is a purpose and mindset coach, lawyer, and podcaster. She helps women move beyond imposterism and perfectionism to create space in the mind, and uncover our true, integrated selves. As a lawyer for 20 years, she has witnessed many people who work and live out of alignment with their values and purpose—often because they don’t know their worth, regardless of their successes. Many feel like imposters waiting to get exposed, and afraid that who they really are isn’t enough. As a person with over 22 years in recovery from alcohol use disorder and a life-long ADHD-er, Melissa is all too familiar with what the experience of imposterism can do. After years of living behind the mask of imposterism, she now lives authentically and regularly shares her story to destigmatize both alcohol use disorder and ADHD. She leads meditation and mindfulness practices, leads workshops on overcoming imposterism and destigmatizing addiction and neurodivergence, offering hope and resilience tools to everyone who might want them. In this episode, Melissa shares her story of alcohol-use disorder, ADHD, and imposterism. Wendy and Melissa discuss imposter syndrome, which groups are at a higher risk, why we need to stop pathologizing it (hint: it’s not our fault!), how it shows up in humans, the connection to perfectionism, how societal systems exacerbate it, ways organizations can better support persons and mitigate against imposterism, what steps individuals feeling like imposters can take, and how are self-acceptance and self-love are the antidotes to imposterism. More about Melissa and her podcast: www.thefullymindful.com
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The Power of AWE with Michael Amster, M.D.
04/11/2023
The Power of AWE with Michael Amster, M.D.
Michael Amster, M.D., is the co-author (with Jake Eagle, LPC) of the new book The Power of Awe. Dr. Amster is a pain management specialist and awe researcher who teaches at the UC Berkeley Greater Good Science Center. He’s also a long-time meditator and yoga instructor. He joins host Wendy McCallum to share what he and Jake discovered a few years ago about the amazing power of “microdosing awe” and how the simple practice they teach can impact almost every area of your physical, mental and emotional health. In this episode, Dr. Amster defines “awe” and distinguishes it from other emotions like gratitude, discusses the three types of awe and how we know we’re experiencing them, and shares the quick 5 to 15 second A.W.E. Method that he developed with Jake Eagle at the start of the global pandemic. He goes on to explain the incredible results their formal awe research studies have generated and the science around why awe is such a special, powerful emotion when it comes to human wellbeing. Wendy shares her experiences practicing awe in the 24 hours after she read the book, including an interesting experience with a bathtub. They discuss the power of awe when it comes to preventing and recovering from burnout and the exciting future of research around the emotion. Wendy geeks out on science and Dr. Amster shares his hope that the future of awe includes a global social awakening. This is an incredibly interesting conversation for any busy person who’s interested in improving their wellness, increasing joy, and preventing burnout. Tune in to find out how to get the benefits of a time-consuming meditation practice in just seconds a day! Find the book anywhere books are sold and get more information and free resources here:
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From Evangelist to Women's Rights Advocate (with Julia Anderson)
04/04/2023
From Evangelist to Women's Rights Advocate (with Julia Anderson)
Julia Anderson shares her incredible story of leaving the narrow experience of her evangelistic Christian upbringing (including its purity culture) at the age of 19 to raise her newborn daughter and create the independent, successful life she craved. Julia is now the CEO of the Canadian Partnership for Women and Children’s Health (CanWaCH) and has over 15 years of senior and executive-level experience in international development, not-for-profits, civil society, human rights, and gender equality. As CanWaCH CEO, she continues to champion bold, innovative - and even disruptive - approaches to advancing the health and rights of women and girls around the world. Bite-Sized Balance Host Wendy and Julia met over a year ago in an online writing group. Julia discusses her experience as a female CEO in the non-profit sector, the stresses associated with that, and how she works to prioritize and maintain her own balance and that of her staff (to prevent burnout). She also shares her decision to become alcohol-free during the pandemic, as well as her personal love of writing as a creative outlet and component of self-care.
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Intoxicating Lies (with Meg Geisewite)
03/28/2023
Intoxicating Lies (with Meg Geisewite)
As a best-selling author and speaker, Meg Geisewite is changing the narrative on the mommy wine culture, hustle culture, and our pro-drinking culture. In Meg’s debut book, Intoxicating Lies: One Woman's Journey to Freedom from Gray Area Drinking, Meg flips the script on the five most intoxicating lies we tell ourselves about alcohol. In this episode, Meg shares her story of being an ordinary, working mom who found herself trapped in the mommy wine culture, and how her love of science led her to discover the real truth about alcohol and its seductive lies as she embarked on a journey to becoming alcohol-free. Wendy and Meg discuss the common lies women tell themselves including that “we deserve a drink” and that we “don’t have a problem” as gray-area drinkers. They review the common signs of gray-area drinking and Meg shares her “just one sip” story. They also discuss the shame cycle, the detox to retox myth, the critical role of community for women in sobriety, the importance of self-compassion, and the non-linear path to becoming free from alcohol that is normal for most people. Instagram: @intoxicatingliesbook Website: www.intoxicatinglies.com
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