In this episode, Ji and Mel explore what it means to take a non-traditional path in midlife, living without a partner or children, whether by choice, chance, or circumstance. They dive into how family expectations, cultural pressure, and societal stigma shape women’s decisions about marriage and motherhood, and what life looks like when you choose a different path. With honest reflections on love, independence, and aging, this conversation is for women defining what happiness and purpose mean on their own terms.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• Why early family experiences shape how we view marriage and children.
• The stigma—and freedom—of being single or child-free in your 40s.
• The narratives women must release to embrace their authentic choices.
• The financial and emotional realities of aging without children or a partner.
• Practical advice for women undecided about marriage or children.
• What Ji and Mel would tell their younger selves about self-worth, independence and love.

What We Discuss:

00:24 — Why Ji and Mel chose to have this conversation.

03:00 — Early influences on views about marriage and kids.

09:25 — Choice vs. circumstance in deciding not to have children.

19:26 — The freedoms and gains of being single and child-free.

21:52 — The challenges: loneliness, aging, and financial security.

28:34 — Advice to their younger selves and to women still undecided.

Connect with Jam Session:

• Follow Jam Session on Instagram
• Share Your Journey with Ji and Mel
• Visit Second Act Coaching
• Episode Webpage
• Disclaimer

In this episode, Ji Kim and Mel Hightower explore the complexities of being the 'fixer' in family dynamics. They discuss personal experiences, the emotional toll of this role, and the importance of setting boundaries. Through candid conversations, they reflect on their journeys and offer insights on how to navigate the challenges of being a fixer while prioritizing self-care and healthy relationships.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• How to recognize the signs that you might be the “fixer” in your family.
• The emotional and financial toll of constantly stepping in to solve others’ problems.
• Why fixers often suffer in silence—and how that affects relationships.
• The role of cultural and family dynamics in shaping fixer behavior.
• How unspoken expectations can create long-term pressure and resentment.
• The power of honest conversations in reshaping family roles.
• Practical ways to set and reinforce healthy boundaries without guilt.
• How shifting your role can strengthen your family relationships.

What We Discuss:

00:00 What it means to be the “family fixer” and how to spot the signs.

06:55 Mel’s story — stepping into the role after her father’s passing and its impact.

18:50 Ji’s story — how fixing shaped her career, relationships, and choices.

27:09 The turning points, boundary setting, and redefining support.

38:57 What healing looks like when you step back from fixing.

Connect with Jam Session:

• Follow Jam Session on Instagram
• Share Your Journey with Ji and Mel
• Visit Second Act Coaching
• Episode Webpage
• Disclaimer

In this episode of the Jam Session podcast, hosts Ji Kim and Mel Hightower delve into the essential topic of self-care. They explore its definition, the importance of both internal and external self-care, and share personal stories of their journeys. The conversation highlights the significance of recognizing the signs of neglecting self-care, setting boundaries, and the role of sacrifice. They also discuss various non-conventional self-care modalities, including energy healing and Akashic records, and how these practices have influenced their lives. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of faith, journaling, and finding joy beyond self-care routine.

In This Episode, You'll Learn:

• Why self-care isn’t just bubble baths and spa days—and how internal self-care can be just as vital as external.
• How to spot the warning signs that you’re running on empty before burnout hits.
• Why boundaries, therapy, and honest conversations are game changers when you're depleted.
• How childhood roles and cultural expectations shape our relationship with self-care.
• What energy healing and Akashic readings are—and how they helped Ji reconnect with her inner self.
• Why journaling, faith, and daily rituals like walking can be powerful and free self-care tools.
• How purpose, not productivity, became the north star for both Ji and Mel.
• Why doing something outside yourself—like solo travel or fostering rescue dogs—can expand your heart and your healing.

What We Discuss:

01:49 – The difference between internal and external self-care—and why we often neglect the internal

03:50 – Mel’s burnout story and the wake-up call that forced her to prioritize her wellbeing

08:27 – Ji’s journey from external self-care to deep internal healing after a breakup

13:23 – Exploring holistic modalities: energy healing, reiki, and Akashic readings

22:06 – How faith and journaling helped Mel reconnect to her purpose

27:30 – Why doing something outside yourself—like solo travel or fostering dogs—can be deeply healing

34:43 – Free self-care practices you can start today, from morning walks to meditation

Connect with Jam Session:

• Follow Jam Session on Instagram
• Share Your Journey with Ji and Mel
• Visit Second Act Coaching
• Episode Webpage
• Disclaimer