In this episode of Pucker Up Midlife, Jenn and Andrea dive into one of the most important (and personal) questions women face in midlife: What does “happy” actually look like now? Joined by close friends Lanae and Heather, this honest and often hilarious conversation explores how happiness, identity, and priorities shift during midlife, menopause, and the empty-nest transition.

From redefining success beyond career achievements to finding peace, freedom, and contentment, this episode unpacks what it really means to discover your happy in midlife. Heather shares her journey from a high-stress law enforcement career into retirement, wellness, and hormone replacement therapy, while Lanae offers insight into balancing work, family, health, and inner peace with kids still at home. Together, the group opens up about perimenopause, menopause symptoms, hormone therapy, mental health, anxiety, depression, and aging as women—topics that are too often ignored or minimized.

You’ll also hear candid discussions about:

• Navigating menopause and hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
• Prioritizing health, sleep, and holistic wellness in midlife
• Letting go of people-pleasing and redefining identity
• Alcohol reduction, mocktails, and social life changes
• Retirement planning, financial freedom, and long-term thinking
• Empty nesting, marriage shifts, and finding joy after 50

This episode is a reminder that midlife isn’t the beginning of the end—it’s the beginning of clarity, confidence, and choice. Whether you’re navigating perimenopause, menopause, midlife reinvention, women’s wellness, or personal growth after 40, this conversation will leave you feeling seen, validated, and inspired to create a version of happiness that actually fits your life now.

✨ Midlife can be a happy time—if you give yourself permission to find it.

Keywords: midlife podcast, women over 40 podcast, midlife reinvention, girlfriends in midlife, perimenopause humor, real women real talk, women supporting women, beauty tips for women over 40, midlife friendship, midlife lifestyle podcast, fashion over 40, girl trips ideas, self care midlife, confidence in midlife, women aging gracefully

In this lively and heartfelt episode of Pucker Up Midlife, Jenn and Andrea kick off 2026 with laughter, honesty, and a much-needed exhale after the holiday chaos. From empty-nester shock and hosting overload to sick days, travel exhaustion, and houses full of kids, dogs, and noise—this episode is a real talk reset for women navigating midlife.

The duo reflects on their first four months of podcasting, sharing behind-the-scenes moments that include tech fails, zero-audio recordings, and proud milestones like welcoming their first guest and hearing how the show has positively impacted listeners. They revisit emotional highlights, including Andrea’s powerful adoption story, and celebrate how far they’ve come by simply showing up and figuring it out as they go.

As the new year begins, Jenn and Andrea dive into realistic midlife resolutions, focusing on health, peace, positivity, and the freedom to stop people-pleasing. They explore the idea of “adding and subtracting” in this season of life—adding habits that support physical and emotional well-being, while subtracting stress, negativity, and unnecessary obligations. Andrea shares her decision to compete again at 55, while Jenn commits to affirmations, self-acceptance, and prioritizing what truly matters.

The conversation also touches on midlife style struggles, 2026 fashion trends, body changes, sugar cravings, fitness shifts, and why women in their 40s and 50s deserve grace—not pressure. As always, the episode is filled with humor, friendship, gift-giving surprises, and candid moments that feel like sitting at the table with your closest girlfriends.

If you’re navigating midlife, reinvention, health changes, confidence shifts, or simply trying to start the year with intention and authenticity—this episode is for you.

✨ Cheers to 2026, more positivity, and puckering up for what’s next.

Keywords: midlife podcast, women over 40 podcast, midlife reinvention, girlfriends in midlife, perimenopause humor, real women real talk, women supporting women, beauty tips for women over 40, midlife friendship, midlife lifestyle podcast, fashion over 40, girl trips ideas, self care midlife, confidence in midlife, women aging gracefully

In this heartfelt and hilarious episode of Pucker Up Midlife, Jenn and Andrea dive into the reality of the holiday season as women navigating midlife, motherhood, and ever-changing family traditions. From decorating early (or late), juggling adult kids, grandchildren, and long-distance holidays, to letting go of old traditions and creating new ones, this episode captures the emotional, messy, and joyful truth of Christmas in midlife.

The conversation explores how holidays evolve as kids grow up, the pressure women carry to “make Christmas happen,” and the mental load that comes with shopping, hosting, decorating, and budgeting. Jenn and Andrea share funny stories about Elf on the Shelf, Santa photos, ugly Christmas sweaters, white elephant gift exchanges gone wrong, and why setting boundaries around spending and expectations matters more than ever.

They also discuss meaningful holiday traditions—Italian Christmas Eve meals, family singing, matching pajamas, gift-tracking apps, and choosing experiences over excess gifts. With plenty of laughs, relatable moments, and honest reflections, this episode reminds listeners that the holidays don’t have to be perfect to be meaningful.

If you’re a woman in midlife navigating holiday stress, family dynamics, nostalgia, and reinvention, this episode will make you feel seen, understood, and entertained.

Topics covered:

Midlife holidays, Christmas traditions, motherhood, empty nest life, family dynamics, holiday stress, budgeting, mental load, gift ideas, women in midlife, reinvention, laughter, and letting go.

Perfect for fans of honest conversations, real friendships, and embracing the beauty of imperfection during the holidays.

Keywords: midlife podcast, women over 40 podcast, midlife reinvention, girlfriends in midlife, perimenopause humor, real women real talk, women supporting women, beauty tips for women over 40, midlife friendship, midlife lifestyle podcast, fashion over 40, girl trips ideas, self care midlife, confidence in midlife, women aging gracefully

In this deeply personal and emotional episode of Pucker Up Midlife, Jenn and Andrea open the door to one of the most defining stories of Jenn’s life—a powerful journey of motherhood, loss, resilience, and the unexpected beauty of blended family.

For the first time, Jenn shares the full story behind how she and her husband became parents to two additional daughters, Katie and Sarah, after their mother Sharon bravely battled cancer as a single mom. From the early days of helping with rides and practices, to hospital visits, to navigating the heartbreaking reality of Sharon’s final weeks, this episode captures the raw humanity, courage, and compassion that shaped their family forever.

Jenn walks listeners through the fear, uncertainty, love, and grace that unfolded as she and Paul stepped into the role of guardians—ultimately creating a tight-knit, joy-filled family of seven. This is a story about the power of community, the strength of women, the resilience of children, and what it means to show up for someone when it matters most.

If you’ve ever experienced loss, blended a family, or questioned whether you’re strong enough for the hard seasons, this episode will move you, comfort you, and remind you of the beauty that can rise from heartbreak.

Keywords: midlife podcast, women over 40 podcast, midlife reinvention, girlfriends in midlife, perimenopause humor, real women real talk, women supporting women, beauty tips for women over 40, midlife friendship, midlife lifestyle podcast, fashion over 40, girl trips ideas, self care midlife, confidence in midlife, women aging gracefully

In this heartfelt Thanksgiving episode of Pucker Up Midlife, Jenn and Andrea dive into the beauty, chaos, and bittersweet transitions that come with midlife, motherhood, and evolving family traditions. From hilarious moments of midlife brain fog (yes… double contact lenses!) to the emotional reality of kids moving away, shifting holiday routines, and learning to cherish what truly matters, this episode is all about gratitude, reinvention, and connection.

Jenn and Andrea open up about:

• How holiday traditions change as kids grow up and family dynamics shift

• Navigating the sadness of missing loved ones during the holidays

• Passing down family recipes, stories, and memories

• Practicing daily gratitude (“Vitamin G”) and the importance of a personal mantra

• The growth, friendships, and life lessons that come with midlife reinvention

• Listener submissions sharing what they’re thankful for this season

• The small things we’re grateful for now (hello, progesterone and eyebrows!)

This warm, funny, and deeply relatable episode reminds us to appreciate the people who shape our lives, embrace new seasons with an open heart, and carry forward the stories and traditions that matter most. Whether you're spending Thanksgiving with family, friends, or flying solo this year, this conversation will make you feel seen, supported, and celebrated.

Follow along for more midlife conversations on reinvention, wellness, gratitude, hormones, empty nesting, and the messy-beautiful reality of being a woman in midlife.

Keywords: midlife podcast, women over 40 podcast, midlife reinvention, girlfriends in midlife, perimenopause humor, real women real talk, women supporting women, beauty tips for women over 40, midlife friendship, midlife lifestyle podcast, fashion over 40, girl trips ideas, self care midlife, confidence in midlife, women aging gracefully

In this episode of Pucker Up Midlife, Jenn and Andrea are back with the laughs, the honesty, and the very real midlife moments we’re all living through. From learning how to host your first podcast guest (without losing your minds), to the chaos of October birthdays, bunco nights, witch hat parties, weddings, and mystery headaches caused by too-tight hats — this one has it all.

The girls talk about the magic of girlfriend trips, why every woman needs her tribe, and how friendships become even more essential in midlife. They also dive into the latest “WTF is happening online?” trends — including Kim Kardashian’s new fuzzy thong line (yes, that’s apparently a thing) — and the beauty products and hacks that are actually making a difference for them right now.

If you love humor, real conversation, midlife reinvention, fashion finds, beauty tips, girl talk, and a reminder that we’re all figuring this out as we go — this episode is for you.

Listen in for:

• The real story behind their first-ever podcast guest experience
• Witch hat bunco parties & fall chaos
• Why midlife girlfriend trips are non-negotiable
• Viral underwear and fashion trends that make no sense
• Favorite beauty + skincare finds that actually work
• Why planning your outfits on a clothing rack will change your life
• The “Dry November… maybe January” conversation we’re all having

This is your space to laugh, relate, vent, and feel seen.

Sassy, messy, supportive, and real — just how midlife should be. 💋

Keywords: midlife podcast, women over 40 podcast, midlife reinvention, girlfriends in midlife, perimenopause humor, real women real talk, women supporting women, beauty tips for women over 40, midlife friendship, midlife lifestyle podcast, fashion over 40, girl trips ideas, self care midlife, confidence in midlife, women aging gracefully

In this heartfelt episode of Pucker Up Midlife, Jen and Andrea welcome their first guest — licensed psychotherapist and author Aimee Semas-Day — to talk about one of the biggest transitions women face: the empty nest. Together, they explore how couples can reconnect after years of parenting chaos, why this season can actually become the best chapter of your relationship, and how to rediscover your own identity once the kids are grown.

Aimee shares powerful insights from her book Heal: An Owner’s Manual for How to Heal Emotional Wounds and Live Your Truth, opening up about purpose, growth, and embracing life’s next evolution with grace (and humor). From weekly date nights to rekindling old passions, this conversation reminds us that the empty nest doesn’t have to feel so empty — it can be the start of something new, vibrant, and deeply fulfilling.

🎧 Listen to hear:

How to reconnect with your partner after raising kids

Why the empty nest phase can feel like both loss and freedom

Tips for rediscovering your purpose and passions in midlife

The role of humor, self-awareness, and daily rituals in healthy relationships

How Amy turned personal loss into a message of healing and hope

✨ Follow along at Pucker Up Midlife on YouTube and Instagram for more real, sassy, and empowering conversations about life after 40.

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In this hilarious and heartfelt episode of Pucker Up Midlife, Jenn and Andrea get real about life after 40 — from managing aging parents and navigating technology mishaps to embracing the chaos (and comedy) of midlife. Whether you’re a 40+ or 50+ woman, an empty nester, or just figuring out who you are in this next chapter, you’ll feel seen, supported, and seriously entertained.

The duo swap stories about their parents’ wild adventures — from Ozempic gone wrong to Facebook photo fails — while reflecting on how family, friendship, and laughter help us survive this unpredictable season of life. They also share their favorite beauty finds, cozy holiday plans, and the small joys that make midlife meaningful.

If you’re in your 40s, 50s, or beyond and love real talk about reinvention, relationships, and rediscovering yourself, this episode is for you.

Keywords: midlife podcast, women over 40, women over 50, empty nesters, aging parents, midlife reinvention, menopause humor, midlife friendship, Gen X women, over 40 lifestyle, Pucker Up Midlife podcast.