Ep. 412 Midlife Sandwich: Navigating Changing Identities with Dr. Sarah Milken

Everyday Wellness with Cynthia Thurlow ™

Today, I am excited to connect with Sarah Milken, the creator and host of the side-splittingly superb Flexible Neurotic podcast, dedicated to women recreating themselves in the second half of life. Before she started the podcast, Sarah received a PhD in educational psychology at the University of Southern California and then taught at their Graduate School of Education.

This episode gets a little more personal than usual as Sarah and I dive into the challenges of living in a half-empty nest. We explore how our relationships evolve, the challenges of children gaining independence, initiating and sustaining tough conversations, and staying connected with our significant other. We also look at people-pleasing and self-expansion in midlife and discuss whether or not we should opt for HRT.

Whether navigating an empty nest or wondering what lies ahead, you will love this conversation with Sarah Milken.

IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN:

• The emotional challenges parents tend to face when their children leave for college
• Redefining your roles as a parent
• How practicing self-care and finding new hobbies and interests helps fill the void
• The difficulties associated with parenting independent children
• Why you need to create a safe space for your children to share their concerns and challenges
• Maintaining a relationship with your partner while navigating changing family dynamics
• Why we must be open and honest about boundaries
• The importance of being present and available for your children as they navigate their independence
• The pros and cons of hormone replacement therapy
• Embracing midlife as a time for self-discovery and self-care

Connect with Cynthia Thurlow

• Follow on Twitter
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• Check out Cynthia’s website
• Submit your questions to [email protected]

Connect with Sarah Milken

• On her website
• The Flexible Neurotic on YouTube
• Instagram
• TikTok